Cashmere Václav's Story

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It was early morning in the city if Verasey, a city where forges burned all day long as the sound of hammer hitting the metal was echoed all over the city. It wasn't a surprise that many people had gathered to observe the work of blacksmiths, the forges were a great source of warmth in the cold, harsh environment of the mountains. Among the alleys you could see children playing as their mothers watched from nearby, chatting amongst themselves in the process. From an outsider's perspective, there was more unusual aspects to the city; Besides from blacksmiths and traders, the men were mainly soldiers. For those knowing the history of the Leos it was nothing to be surprised of. In fact most of the mothers had once wore the armour themselves along with the children. The people of Leos were mercenaries and, despite their gender, every child had to go through military training. Verasey was the only city in the whole kingdom, in which you could find several training camps scattered across the Kingdom of Leos.

In the northern part of the city located a sturdy stone castle, inside of it a small room filled with bookshelves containing books of many origins. The dust danced in the air as the morning sun shone through from the only window in the room, leaving a small patch of light on the central desk with a large Claymore left leaning against the side. Upon this desk sat piles of papers waiting to be signed by the Princess of Leo. However these papers were forced to wait as on the desk sat three letters that were of more importance. Sitting on the chair behind that desk was the princess herself, Zari, dressed in her usual black leather armour. At first glance she definitely didn't look like a Princess, due to the fact that she was never supposed to become one. Since young age she was trained to be a warlord and that was shown in her everyday life.

The three letters all described applications to hire the mercenaries of Leo in the upcoming war between King Constellation and Queen Stars. As she had expected, there were letters from both the King and Queen but to her surprise there was a third one from Virgo as well. Before receiving these letters Zari had thought the further negotiations would have been easy but once she had the letters in her hand it was understood that this would be one of the most difficult choices in her life. It was a known fact that Zari was a risk taker and wasn't afraid of danger; however when it come to war that would affect on her whole Kingdom and it's people, Zari didn't want to make the wrong choice. And that was why she didn't just accept the highest offer right away. She was planning through this war, taking all aspects into consideration. Which Kingdoms were siding with King and which with Queen? Which Kingdoms were most of threat to her? Of course, she wasn't completely alone with this decision as within the castle walls many parties had discussed the matter with her. Griffen, her younger brother had been taught more about politics as he was predicted to be the next Prince of Leos. Then there was Cayden, Zari's right hand, counselor and one of the top three captains of the army. Finally, there existed a man Zari couldn't avoid having conversations with, despite sending him to visit other Kingdoms as often as possible for 'business' reasons. The man was Cashmere, her husband of ten years and in Zari's opinion as annoying as a kid.

Knowing all the parties were gathering to meet this same day, Zari was hoping to make the right decision. After days of thinking different choices and outcomes, while also talking about the matter, she finally had an idea on how to continue. Letting out a deep sigh, Zari stood, took the claymore, and left to find Cashmere. "I have new job for you. I'll go to Virgo and negotiate more with the King. You go pay a visit to the Queen. She's probably already arriving at Capricorn's castle so just go over the mountains on her side of the border. But just in case I'll send a letter to her informing you're coming." her tone was firm, one of a ruler who knew what she wanted and wouldn't accept any objection. She was always talking to him like that. Not caring if he was her husband or not.

With that said, she left to find Cayden and Sevi to come along with her as she would travel to King's meeting at Virgo's island. "Damn it, I hate water." she muttered to herself lighting up a small flame of fire on her finger.