Chapter 10- I meet you once again

As the Empress, I became busy with the preparation for the Welcome and Victory Party for the Emperor and the heroes of the war of the Empire.

After I received the letter, immediately I called for a meeting to announce the good news and assigned tasks to the nobles for the upcoming event. Everybody was happy and excited and agreed to help. The war has finally ended and peace has been achieved. The can finally breathe peacefully without worries to be attacked anymore.

I tried to ignore the awkward atmosphere between the Duke and me. He looked battered and a dark bruise on his neck is visible. I wonder what happened. He reported that he has no memory of the incident and no one is around to witness what happened. The case was closed as if nothing happened. He always gives me a somber face every time we were alone as he needs to report from time to time the progress of his tasks. He did not say anything at least, but one time he said in a calm voice.

"Please reconsider what I offered." before he left.

It would take at least two weeks for the troops to arrive at the Empire so we still have time to make it. Despite the tight budget, I made it possible with my ability. Inside and outside the palace was full of buzz as everybody was happy and excited to see their loved ones after 5 years into the war. The war took a great toll on them, many have died, lost their homes and it was almost impossible to win the first time they were attacked. Little by little, the Empire was able to cope up with the damages and started to move on. They were just thankful that the Emperor was a very capable warrior and me, as the Empress handled the Empire's economy to its stability from almost collapsing. Now, people were satisfied and so the commoners decided to hold a festive approved by the Empress as also their appreciation for the heroes of the war.

"My Majesty, you worked so hard. I hope you also take good care of your body. Today, you looked paler as usual." Sarah, my closest aid, and at the same time a friend reminded me once again of her health. She noticed that my face is paler than usual and the bag in my eyes was darker and bigger. Lately, I am not getting good sleep as in these days.

"Did you not sleep again?" she noticed that I am developing insomnia nowadays.

"Yes. It's getting harder to sleep these days. I wonder." I replied. Indeed, I was very tired. A sigh escaped my mouth. How many days had it passed already that I only have a few hours of sleep and once fall asleep, I wake up in the middle and the night feeling groggy, sometimes panting and sweats a lot. Was it due to the stress of the preparation that my body was getting tired as the days passed by?

Finally, the time has come and the Emperor and the troops arrived. Everybody rejoiced while welcoming the party with shout and praises.

"Hail to the Yin of the Empire, Your Majesty, Emperor Van! Hail to the heroes of the war! Hail to the Empire!" They chanted repeatedly. The voice gets louder and cheerfully as the troops passed with heads held high and waving at the people.

I waited patiently at the podium. I already informed the Emperor on prior notice the schedule on the day they arrived which he agreed to. Thankfully, everything went smoothly and successfully.

My heart pounded in excitement as I saw the Emperor jump down magnificently on his horse with his armor still on, his sword hanging on the side of his hips and walks towards me. He changed. He looked more mature and his handsome presence was more pronounced and fierce. His eyes look sharper and everything about him is regal than ever.

"Hail to the Yin of the Empire, My Majesty." I greeted. "Welcome back. I am glad that you already arrived safely. And thank you for protecting the Empire." Though we always communicate through letters, it can't be avoided to feel awkward to your long-separated husband for 5 years.

"Hail to the Yang of the Empire, My Empress, I am back! Thank you for all your support and care. We won't be able to survive without your backing." said the Emperor as he kissed my hand and held it after without letting go.

"It is for our Empire My Emperor, and for the safety of you and our people who fought as well," I answered, delighted to hear his words of gratitude.

"Hail to the Yin and Yang of the Empire! Hail to His Majesty, the Emperor! Hail to her Majesty, the Empress!" people shouted with joy and pride. We both raised our held hand to the People who shouted and cheered louder.

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"You looked exhausted My Empress, are you alright?" Emperor Van voiced his concern as we went back to the palace together. He was still holding my hands.

"You have nothing to worry about My Emperor. You should take a rest yourself. You traveled back from a long journey. I will see you later at the banquet." I said bidding him goodbye. I, too, need to take a rest before preparing myself tonight. Today will be a very busy day.

I went back to my chambers and asked the maids to change my clothes which they readily complied with. I told them I will take a rest for an hour and woke me up after. I feel drained and exhausted. I knew I had a dream, but unlike before, I can't remember it at all. Before I closed my eyes, I saw a familiar face lingered on me.

"You..." I uttered. I am not sure if I am awake or already dreaming. The familiar face of the beautiful girl who keeps me in my dream is here. How long has it been since I've seen her?

"Yuna..." I heard her utter my name. My chest tightened as she said my name softly. I raised my hand, yearning to touch her beautiful face but I feel too exhausted. My eyelids have grown heavier. I want to open it and look at her one more time.

"Aria..." I uttered before I lost consciousness.