Chapter 43 Letter and Returning to the Capital part 2

As Tatsuo's ship approached the capital city's docks, the harbor guards noticed the Imperial Family's flag fluttering from the mast. However, they were puzzled by the unfamiliar black dragon flag flying beneath it. They shrugged off their confusion and prepared a carriage to transport the ship's passenger to the palace.

When the ship docked, Tatsuo disembarked, and the guards immediately recognized him. "My Prince!" they exclaimed, bowing respectfully. They escorted him to a waiting carriage and then to the palace.

Tatsuo stepped out of the carriage and proceeded directly to his father's office. Without hesitation, he opened the door and announced, "Father, I'm back."

Emperor Hiro looked up from his work, a warm smile spreading across his face. "Tatsuo," he said, "you've returned at the perfect time."

"The King of the Tigerheart Kingdom and his family will arrive tomorrow," Emperor Hiro continued, "for your wedding on Sunday."

Tatsuo's eyes widened in disbelief. "Wedding?" he exclaimed, his voice filled with confusion. "But...I barely know her! And Sunday? That's in two days!"

The Emperor chuckled, a warm sound that filled the room. "You'll like her, Tatsuo," he assured his son. "She's almost as beautiful as your mother was in her youth." (Emperor Hiro's statement wasn't an overreaction. Empress Mie was renowned for her unparalleled beauty throughout the capital in her younger years.)

Tatsuo, still reeling from the sudden announcement, nodded slowly. "I see," he said, though his mind was a whirlwind of thoughts. "If you'll excuse me, Father, I think I need to rest for a while."

He retreated to his chambers, closing the door behind him. He lay on his bed, trying to process the events of the past few days. An arranged marriage, a sudden return to the capital, and a wedding in two days – it was all happening too fast.

A gentle knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. Empress Mie entered the room, her expression a mix of concern and affection. "Tatsuo," she said softly, "why didn't you come to see me when you arrived?"

Tatsuo sat up, a guilty expression on his face. "Mother," he began, "I'm sorry. My mind was so full, and I was so tired, I...I forgot."

He rose and embraced her, his arms wrapping around her in a familiar hug. "I missed you, Mother," he whispered.

Empress Mie's heart softened at her son's apology. She returned the hug, her hand gently stroking his hair. "It's alright, Tatsuo," she said, her voice filled with understanding. "I understand you've been through a lot."

They shared a few moments of quiet comfort before the Empress spoke again. "You must be exhausted," she said. "I'll leave you to rest. We can talk more later."

Tatsuo nodded, a grateful smile on his face. "Thank you, Mother," he said.

The Empress left the room, leaving Tatsuo to his thoughts. He lay back down on the bed, his mind still racing, but a sense of peace settled over him. Despite the whirlwind of events, he was home, and his mother's presence brought him a sense of comfort.

As evening fell, Tatsuo made his way to the dining hall, seeking a moment of normalcy amidst the whirlwind of his return. He found his parents, Emperor Hiro and Empress Mie, already seated at the table. His sisters were absent: Ao was still traveling from Tadorm City, her current residence; Fen was at the Academy and would return the following day; and the youngest, Yui, was traveling with Ao.

Tatsuo joined his parents, and as they ate, Empress Mie inquired about his conquest in the northern territories of the Empire. Tatsuo recounted his experiences, detailing the battles, the challenges of governance, and the growth of Dragonsden County.

"You've accomplished so much, Tatsuo," Empress Mie said, her voice filled with pride. "I'm eager to see Dragonsden County for myself."

"You are always welcome to visit, Mother," Tatsuo replied, a warm smile on his face. "I would be honored to have you."

"I will make time," she assured him. "I wouldn't miss it."

After dinner, Tatsuo felt a pull towards the training field. He missed the familiar rhythm of sword and spear practice, the satisfying clang of steel against steel. He spent some time honing his techniques, finding a sense of grounding in the physical exertion.

As the night deepened, Tatsuo returned to his chambers. He settled into a meditative posture, focusing on his cultivation. He sought to refine his control over his internal energy, pushing his limits and striving for further advancement. The quiet solitude of his room allowed him to delve deep within himself, seeking the balance and strength he needed for the challenges ahead.

The following morning, a flurry of activity swept through the Imperial Palace. Preparations were underway for the arrival of King Aros Sunfire and his family. Servants scurried through the halls, ensuring every detail was perfect. Banners bearing the symbols of both the Empire and the Tigerheart Kingdom were hung, and the grand dining hall was being meticulously arranged for the evening's feast.

Tatsuo, dressed in his finest attire, stood at the palace gates, awaiting the arrival of his betrothed and her family. A sense of unease settled over him. He knew little about Princess Ahtris, aside from the vague memories of a spirited girl who preferred swords to silks.

As the royal carriage approached, Tatsuo straightened his posture, attempting to project an air of composure. The carriage doors opened, and King Aros Sunfire emerged, his golden hair and amber eyes gleaming in the morning sun. He was followed by Queen Esabel, her graceful presence radiating warmth and diplomacy. Prince Beroldus, tall and proud, stepped out next, his gaze sharp and assessing. Finally, Princess Ahtris descended from the carriage.

Tatsuo's breath caught in his throat. Ahtris was not the tomboyish girl he remembered. She had blossomed into a stunning young woman, her golden hair cascading down her shoulders, her amber eyes sparkling with intelligence and a hint of mischief. She possessed a natural grace, yet there was a strength in her posture, a hint of the warrior within.

King Aros approached Tatsuo, a broad smile on his face. "Tatsuo," he boomed, "it's been too long! You've grown into a fine young man."

"King Aros," Tatsuo replied, bowing slightly, "it's an honor to welcome you to the capital."

The two kings exchanged pleasantries, their conversation filled with warmth and camaraderie. Queen Esabel greeted Tatsuo with a gentle smile, her eyes filled with maternal affection. Prince Beroldus offered a respectful nod, his gaze lingering on Tatsuo with a hint of curiosity.

Finally, Tatsuo turned to Princess Ahtris. "Princess Ahtris," he said, his voice soft, "it's a pleasure to finally meet you."

"Prince Tatsuo," Ahtris replied, her voice clear and steady, "the pleasure is mine."

Her gaze met his, and Tatsuo felt a strange sense of familiarity, a connection that transcended their childhood memories. He found himself drawn to her intelligence and spirit, her strength and independence.

The royal family was escorted into the palace, where they were shown to their chambers. As they prepared for the evening's feast, Tatsuo found himself preoccupied with thoughts of Ahtris. He was intrigued by her, curious to learn more about the woman she had become.

That evening, the grand dining hall was ablaze with light and filled with the sounds of music and laughter. The feast was a celebration of the alliance between the Empire and the Tigerheart Kingdom, a symbol of their shared prosperity and strength.

Tatsuo sat beside Ahtris, their conversation flowing easily. They discussed their kingdoms, their interests, and their aspirations. Tatsuo was impressed by Ahtris's knowledge of history and her passion for justice. He found her wit sharp and her mind quick.

As the evening progressed, Tatsuo's initial unease faded, replaced by a growing sense of admiration and affection. He realized that his arranged marriage might not be the burden he had initially feared. In Ahtris, he saw not just a princess, but a strong, intelligent, and independent woman, a partner who could stand beside him as an equal.