Kailyn, the Emperor's daughter, went riding that day, unknowing of the peril that her father faced. And she surely had little reason to worry. Many times her father had left Ephirum on campaigns; sometimes for months on end. Always he was successful. More than successful. His victories were glorious, his triumphs celebrated from Ephirum on the Long Sea to the Great Mountains in the east - those that could never be scaled by mortal man.
And so, during the Emperor's absences, Kailyn continued to live an idyllic life befitting the beloved offspring of a powerful ruler. But while it would be natural for a young woman in such a position to become lazy, to become soft, self indulgent, to embrace hedonism, Kailyn was determined that this would not be her fate. She continued her studies, although she was well past the age when this would be expected of a girl in Ephirum. She paid attention to affairs of state, cajoling her father who reluctantly allowed her by his side as he ruled from day to day.
Well, he loved his daughter and was proud of her, and he could deny her nothing. And she did not shy away from hardship, knowing it to be nourishing for the character. And her body was strong, kept so by running, the playing of sports and other physical arts. I know what you think, reader. Did this girl, privileged but determined, have ambitions? Perhaps one day to be a ruler? To inherit her father's Empire? I think not, although it cannot be said for certain. But in Ephirum in those days, empires were earned or stolen, not inherited.
As Kailyn entered the palace courtyard, still in her riding attire, she saw Garsa the scholar emerge from the library, his arms full with books.
"Garsa, what are these? They look new."
"Indeed My Lady," he replied. "They are newly-draughted translations of older works purchased by traders from Ephirum in the lands far to the west."
"From the lands of King Osta?" she asked in excitement.
"Indeed. And from lands further from the Long Sea. Cultures we know almost nothing of, although our spies are beginning to explore them. Gradually we learn more."
"Oh Garsa, I must have one to read. Let me take one! I will return it to you tomorrow!"
Garsa was reluctant, but Kailyn snatched one from his grasp.
"The Book of the Prophet. A religious text, Garsa?"
"Indeed, from the City of The Goddess, a long way____"
"The City of The Goddess? That does sound exotic. I will take this one, Garsa."
"Well, My Lady, it is rather a strange text. Perhaps you would prefer this book of folk tales from Osta's realms. I find it engaging. And a holy book from a far away land might be considered sacrilege to some in the Empire."