Shortly after, they were led to an underground cavern part of the palace, and guards lit torches as they walked through.
Servants also joined to refill their drinks, whether marula or tea. At each crevice were paintings.
"Our shared ancestors of Sari rooted from the time of King Nama and Queen Damara. They've long been forgotten by most, but the Protector always found a way to restore their memory in sacred archives, preserved by our most devoted magi," said Prince Naca.
"Your great grandparents, Queen Khoisa and King Djani I, made sure that even though the ancient tongues and customs of our lands haven't been saved entirely, that its art, especially those within the cave dwellings, are never destroyed."
I know all this. Why does it matter? I'd rather be tending to present matters.
"This was what your mother wanted to see before she left."
"You saw her? How long ago?"
"A few moons ago. But I don't know much beyond that. Just that she wanted to look at this."
The paintings didn't reveal too much as they were mostly of simple figures.
It's believed that the founders of Salazā had ancestors from the land long before they made it their own. But this has never truly been proven.
Yet her family has always believed it, as this was a land Salazā connected to and made a home of for all sxvages.
The painting most favored by Queen Saoa was of several figures holding hands in a circle while two eyes watched over, one made of moon and the other of sun.
Our ancestors never made it easy, did they? Why is everyone always so cryptic? And why did my mother want to see this? Just to show my siblings during their trip?
Or was there some other meaning that I must be wiser than wise to understand?
"Don't look at me," Prince Naca shrugged. "She didn't explain. But she did ask me what I knew of the prophecy."
Bazil and Salīa exchanged glances.
"I told her I don't know much, just rumors that the Protector might return. And that if the Protector returns, it can only be because the demons have risen again under the influence of the demon king."
Salīa froze at those words.
Prince Naca noticed and nodded for the guards to lead them out of the caves.
"That's possibly only a myth, though. We've never lived long enough to meet a Protector, and so there might not even be a demon king."
Even if there isn't, most believe there is. Even worse, they suppose he's my father and that I attract demons.
She didn't sulk aloud, as everyone beside her already knew of such rumors.
When they exited the cave, they appeared in a forest-like garden.
Spread out were seats and servants laying out treats and drinks. While others were laying out bows and arrows, a distance away from the targets.
"Please, join me," Prince Naca took Salīa's hand.
She instinctively pulled back, and he stopped.
"I'm sorry. I was careless. I forgot."
Bazil stood between them, inflamed.
"What a vehement look in your eyes," Prince Naca smirked. "I guess you can join us too."
He noticed Salīa wearily glancing around.
"Don't worry, I know you've been inundated during this time of consternation. I don't wish to take all your time, but I'll make the time I do take worth it."
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