Raju
We got to the palace by horse-drawn carriages. It took us about 2 days to reach there. By the time we reached the palace, I couldn't even feel my legs. I think if someone spilled boiling hot water on me, I wouldn't even react because I couldn't feel anything. I sincerely hoped that I wouldn't need to amputate my legs or something.
However, my numb legs didn't stop me from gawking when we halted in front of the entrance to the palace. The moment I stepped out of the cramped carriage, I immediately took out my camera and took picture after picture of the palace for inspiration. I decided that I'm going to write a mega story about our adventure. From what we were thinking to what we said to each other. Cool right?
Anyways, back to the palace.
The Firl representative, Mei Li (we finally found out her name) and the Hamono representative, a middle-aged dude with a serious face and a weird sense of humour, Krath, got down after me, followed by Gowri and Deva. The four of us walked up the palace steps, and I half-expected the guards to scream "INTRUDER!" and attack us. Fortunately, none of which took place, but I was on my guard nonetheless.
The guards at the door opened the palace doors, and we quickly walked into the main hall. (I'm still getting used to this 'palace language'.) A butler received us and guided Mei Li and Krath to another room to be entertained. Meanwhile, two servants attended to Gowri, Deva and me. They led us to two spacious guests rooms, one for me and Deva to share, and another for Gowri. Apparentally, we were to rest and change into a more 'suitable' outfit for dinner, where we would finally meet the King and Queen of the Balance Realm.
We did as we were told, and fell asleep as soon as my head hit the comfy pillows. I never had experienced this much luxury or comfort in my life at all, and was quite pleasantly surprised. When I finally awoke, I felt relaxed and contented. Deva was already up and showering, so I decided to pay a quick visit to Gowri's room to see how she was keeping up. I got directions from a passing servant, and knocked on her door softly, in case she was still asleep. "Coming!" she answered, and a few seconds later, the door opened. "Oh Raju! Hi!! This place is AMAZING! I slept sooo well, and the outfit choices they offered me are just GORGEOUS! How are you and Deva?" Gowri said excitedly.
"We're good. I just came to check on you, but it seems you're enjoying yourself." I laughed.
" Oh, I see. Do you want to come in and help me pick an outfit? Since you're already here.." Gowri practically pulled me in, and I sat down on one of the armchairs while she tried on each outfit. I didn't mind, as I still had time to kill while waiting for Deva.
The pictures attached below are her outfit options:
In the end, we decided on the second option, a fiery red gown made of rose petals, which was inspired by a phoenix. I had to admit, the fashion designers here were really incredible. Later on, I found out that all their clothes were made up of bits and pieces of light, both dark and bright light woven together with spools of threads to create these magnificent designs. (SUPER COOL!!) I went back to my room to shower, and received a few sets of fresh clothes for me and Deva from one of the servants. I stared in amazement at the cloth, feeling the soft thread-light in my hands. Deva was equally astonished. I hurriedly showered, and we put on our clothes.
Deva's outfit
Once we were done, we tidied up the room and made our way to Gowri's room. When she stepped out of her room, I gasped. She looked stunning with a capital S. She giggled and thanked us when we complimented her. We escorted her downstairs, to the dining hall. We sat in our assigned seats, and I was surprised to see Mei Li and Krath dressed in their unique attire. Mei Li's gown was complete with armour. Krath was dressed up in a suit similar to mine.
Nobody made a sound while we waited for the King and Queen. Suddenly, two familiar- looking men entered the room, and we gasped. It was Neil and Asish! Gowri was overjoyed to see them after so long, and ran to hug Neil. We caught up with them, and they reassured us that everything was going according to plan. Plus, they said they had a surprise for us. I was wondering what it was, when I felt a tap on my shoulder. I turned around, and gaped at the person standing behind me. I couldn't believe it. It was Chris! And Aisha! With Sirena!... and some other dude dressed in all black. I didn't pay much attention to him and talked and laughed with my friends, telling each other all sorts of stories. It was a great moment, and I felt confident we could win the battle and defeat Bellate and Trix.
While we were talking, a sudden hush fell over the room. The King and Queen had arrived. Everyone stood and bowed, as per protocol, and waited until they sat before sitting down. The King toasted to a happy evening, and the dinner began.
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