“Still yourselves!”

“Your majesty your safety is———.”

“I will not repeat command again!”

“Mother, please be mindful by placing yourself in danger it——-.”

“Do you not recognize the flag!?”

“Yes!”

“Then there is no cause for fear!”

“They may not be who they claim to be!”

“Maybe so, “she says turning her head towards, “However there is problem with your claim?”

“Your meaning!?”

“I recognize both the woman who stands in front and the one towards her right.”

“Who are they!?”

“I gave command to all to still yourselves see it honored or see heads mounted upon sticks, “she says ignoring her question.

“Yes mother, “she reluctantly agrees.

“Yes, your majesty, “the head of the queens guard replies. Once she received confirmation Queen Maia continued down the path alone. Never removing her gaze from them she continued to walk towards them, when she was a few feet away she stopped. In unison the women who held a calm demeanor unsheathes their swords holding them high above their heads with their right hand.

“Still yourself, “Daiya commanded as the guards were eager to defend their queen as they perceived the motion as a direct threat. To their surprise again in unison they force their swords into the ground and kneeled before her a sign of respect. Walking towards them closing the distance the queen gazes upon them all.

“Rise.” Doing as commanded they rise to their feet.

“Your majesty apologies for such bold presence as we mean you nor your city harm, I am Bette—-.”

“Porter, “the queen says completing her sentence, “And you are Gaia.”

“Yes, your majesty.”

“I am.”

“I never forget a face nor name I remember you both from many years ago during my visit to Lesbiannicus you served Queen Lenore she introduced you as close friends and head of her royal army.”

“As we remember you the same although she no longer walks amongst us we continue to serve and honor her.”

“As do I.”

“We stand before you having traveled a great distance from—–.”

“Lesbiannicus I thought Jennicus overthrew the city?”

“She has, however we hail from Nephelé.”

“Nephelé!?”

“Yes your majesty.”

“Ascara sent you?”

“Yes, she hoped to see you inform about a more private matter.” It was clear the message she hoped to deliver could not be spoken in front of them all.