“As such, we do not feel safe here.” Gerard paused. “There has already been an attack on the king and the queen consort here at the White Monastery.”
“Since then we have doubled the number of warrior monks in the upper monastery,” the grand shield said.
Gerard nodded. “And we appreciate that. Still, it is my responsibility to protect all Draconians here. At present, I am uncertain if it is wise for King Alaric and the queen consort to remain at the White Monastery if I cannot ensure their total safety. If they leave that could cause complications for the peace treaty.”
Gerard paused, letting the words sink in. It was a low blow. Creating this peace treaty meant everything to the monks.
After several moments, Gerard spoke, “How about we increase the numbers by half of what I suggested?”
Her lips puckered.
“We will not have them randomly roaming the White Monastery. As we agreed upon previously, they will just be in the upper monastery and just around or within the quarters from those from Draconia. The only thing that is new is that we will also have guards escorting and protecting certain individuals when they leave their quarters.”
Honestly, Gerard would like his guards protecting every entrance and every passageway, and patrolling every corner of the White Monastery, the upper, middle, lower, and outer sections. But he knew better than to push that hard.
After all, that would end up looking like a Draconian invasion. And considering the war had been started by such an event, he thought it best to avoid that. The other kingdoms would almost definitely take offence if Draconian guards started roaming every inch of the White Monastery, especially near their quarters.
The grand shield’s hazel eyes narrowed. For several moments she didn’t speak. Finally she nodded. “All right.”
“Thank you,” Gerard said.
They discussed and debated for a few more minutes. But finally the meeting drew to an end with everyone somewhat satisfied and somewhat dissatisfied. The grand shield departed. Two warrior doves followed her out.
“That was a dirty trick, suggesting the peace treaty might not be completed if she didn’t approve more Draconian guards,” Senta said.
Gerard stood and stretched his neck. “I know. Especially because Father isn’t leaving this monastery without a completed peace treaty. But needs must.”
Senta collected the papers on the table. “We need to head off soon if we’re going to fly and dine with the grand dragon warrior tonight.”
Their aunt, the current grand dragon warrior, wanted to have a meeting with him and Senta, so she had requested that they come and dine with her in Draconia.
Even though it was Gerard, with Senta’s assistance, who was in charge of security at the peace assembly, the grand dragon warrior wanted regular updates. At least they could report that they’d gotten the grand shield to agree to an increase in Draconian guards. They’d also need to discuss transporting them from Draconia to the White Monastery in the coming days.
A knock sounded on the door.
“Enter,” Senta called out.
A servant in Draconian livery came forward. “A letter arrived for you, Your Highnesses.”
“Thank you.” Senta took the letter.
The servant bowed and left.
She glanced at the scrawl on the front. “It’s from the grand dragon warrior.” She broke the seal and opened the letter. Her eyes scanned the writing. “Well, looks like we are not flying off to Draconia tonight.”
“No?”
Her brows furrowed. “Apparently something has come up that she needs to deal with urgently. She requests us to come tomorrow and to write if we cannot.”
Gerard thought for a moment. “Tomorrow works for me.”
“Me too. So we are free tonight.” She grinned. “I know what I’m going to do.” She strolled towards the door.
His lip tugged into a smile. “What’s that?” he asked, although he could guess.
“My wife.” She waggled her brows. “Did you know she can make vines grow? It can be very fun.”
Gerard chuckled. “I will ask no more questions and just wish you an enjoyable evening.”
