Larathiel took one last look at the struggle on Brightpool before nodding for them to return to Elsemar. "Your Angel does not strike me so much as a weapon as a piece in some gambit — a piece over which the enemy may have lost control. When I say that Lureene's intentions were vindicated, I am speaking in a metaphysical sense."
As Princess and spy alighted atop a tall belltower north of the Palace dome, Larathiel gazed out over the pristine lake upon whose shores the capital was built. "In Malatesta I confronted Lureene with the full force of my spiritual power."
At those words, the aura surrounding the Princess flared into a holy light, buffeting him with waves of energy that caused even the great bell behind his ghostly form to resonate. Although he was neither charred nor crushed, the sensation was not unlike being hurled naked beneath an icy waterfall, and the rush made the senses afforded by his spiritual form reel. After several heartbeats, Larathiel damped down the profusion of positive energy and said, "That Lureene lives is no failure of judgment, it is my judgment. Had Lureene harbored evil within her or retained ties to her birthright, only her memory would have escaped annihilation."
"You see, the reason I know that she is not a puppet is because the Princess of Silverwake severed any such strings. Although her existence may be a danger, so too might the same be said of Alissariel or myself should we fall victim to the wrong conspirators. Furthermore, without knowing what purpose she was to play, who can say that killing her would not simply serve as a sacrifice to the Queen of Lies? In any event, killing an innocent girl would make us no more worthy of honor than the villains we oppose."
As the Princess looked upon Arion once more, he could feel the astral projection beginning to fade, disrupted perhaps by the demonstration he had just been witness to. Yet as he began to fade, Larathiel smiled with compassion in her eyes. "Learn what you can, but meditate upon this: if angels can fall, then in a world that believes in hope, can the reverse occur? Perhaps you shall have to–"
There, in the Void, several moments passed in quiet consideration. "Upon first meeting the one you now call an Angel, my concerned was not for her soul, but whether she held in thrall the Princess of Silverwake by either force of spell or emotional compromise. Given that you were able to encounter Lureene, you may safely conclude her intentions were vindicated. To be frank, even if the same cannot be said of others, I deemed Alissariel to have had the more profound influence upon Lureene than the reverse."
"That which was not so readily apparent was the purpose behind your Angel's presence in this world. While surely it was the bond of friendship that united the twain, Lureene is an outsider to Elsemar, there existed no natural chance that their paths should cross. Lest feelings impede deduction, I shall make this plain."
Emerald eyes transfixing jade, she said, "The implication is that theirs was no chance meeting but engineered. Yet The Fates are Vala, and therefore bound to the circles of this world. The being who contrived their convocation could only have been another outsider... in all likelihood, her Mother. What remains ambiguous is to what end? If your Angel is not the prize, then what does that make her?"
"I see," the Princess said in reply to Arion's answer. Looking out to the distant battle, she explained, "A soul is by nature invisible. It dwells nigh inviolate within the being to whom it grants life, and the two are as one. Rightfully, the souls of most mortals are imperceptible in such a state — the toll of their deeds and intentions hidden. Yet as you should realize, singularly powerful beings leave a wake as they pass thru the world. The more powerful the soul, the stronger the wake, and the greater the chance it shall affect other realms."
"That tower you see is such a ripple, yet rather than dissipating outward in all directions, it converges upon itself, mounting ever higher." As Larathiel spoke those words, Arion could feel the Princess' eagle eyes upon him, her expression unreadable even though he was certain that even now she read him. "It is ironic that you do not recognize the soul we now gaze upon, but given the contrast between this great distance and your more familiar closeness, it is not unsurprising. That tower which pierces the Heavens is the soul of Princess Kirmoon's companion and yours — Lady Ourson."
"I would like to believe that you will know what to do, Hithraen."
The refreshing breeze that had lulled Arion deeper into his dream-trance had grown more brisk. The smells in the air hand changed as well. No longer was his breath drawn from the thick jungle air, but the thinner, cooler air of a more mountainous area. Although the coolness of the night might have raised goosebumps on the arms of some, it was the smells and quality of the air that did so for Arion. For although it had been many years, the smell of late spring in Mennen Fedleth of home was unmistakable to him.
Even as his heart rejoiced, the scribe opened his eyes to find himself perched atop the crystaline dome of King Aramandil's Palace. Beside him, almost ghostly in her visage was an elven woman of such surpassing beauty and purity that he was torn as to whether he should avert his gaze or revel in her presence. Her long, silver hair was straight yet full, and her emerald eyes were at once wise and compassionate, yet bold and unflinching. The entirety of her being was suffused with an argent glow that seemed to emanate from within her alabaster form.
Standing there beside him, one hand resting lightly upon the mithril spire that capped the Palace dome, was his own princess' elder step-sister — Larathiel — Commander of Ilmarond's Special Forces, and an avowed servant of Miralnas.
"You wish to return here? Then walk with me a while." As she spoke, the Princess of Ilmarond looked up towards the stars above. As his gaze followed, Arion realized he could see not only The Ghaele, the constellation before which the Princess stood and under which she and her twin brother Lareisian were born, but all of the constellations were visible in the sky at once! Looking down, Arion suddenly realized that Elsemar was now a blue-white marble far beneath them, a silvery filament stretching forth from his navel and out of sight towards the Lanscarilma that encircled it.
"Your Queen does not readily reveal herself — only to her husband and thru her works is she known. Yet you, who know where to look, have come to know Cainreleé by her works and the knowledge you glean from your studies."
As the two stood there, poised between Elsemar and Brightpool, Arion might have sworn that he could feel an unseen gaze upon him, yet also there was something else. Far in the distance, thru the silence of The Void, he could feel the spiritual pressure of a great battle. Turning to the moon behind him, his keen elven eyes spotted what looked like tiny specks flitting about the surface of the moon. One was red, another black, and the third violet — all of them buzzing about what seemed a tall ivory tower wreathed in clouds.
"They are in a stalemate, The Queen of Hearts, The Queen of Lies, and The Dark Lillend... They have done battle before, but never so close to home, never for the same prize. Do you know what it might be?"
At the question, Larathiel pauses, her gaze shifting to meet that of her adopted sister. "The vessels that were enroute to Dafar were still underway from Silverwake and had not yet passed out of the Fang Sea. I am heading back to Ilmarond to get to root out the enemies in our ranks and to put an end to the Trull blockade."
She walks over to Alis and lays one hand on her shoulder, the other lifting her chin. To the untrained eye, it might seem that the two then simply gazed at one another for some time Yet Mal knew his commander better than that — she was not that sentimental.
After about two minutes of silent dialog, Alis steps forward and gives her sister a hug. With a gentle smile, Larathiel returns the gesture and gives her a kiss on the forehead.
Disengaging, the white-crowned woman turns to Mal and Priyya. "Please ensure the safety of the Princess. We would be in your debt."
Without further delay, she then steps outside onto a windy balcony and in the next moment you see a large white eagle with silver-tipped wings take to the skies, swiftly disappearing from sight...
Inside the high-domed council chamber, everyone including Princess Larathiel, Ambassador Kiril, Yvonne d'Calla, Mal, Priyya, and Felmor are all seated. Judging by the surface of the oblong table in the center of the room, they had already finished breakfast while pouring over maps and other documents.
Alis notes with a bit of chagrin that she and Lureene are going to be running on empty bellies for at least a while now. It is only after she recovers from the bitter disappointment of finding nothing but crumbs that she notes her older sister is wearing her full battle kit.
"Ah, Alis," Larathiel says, her voice belying no emotion or surprise, "I just finished briefing your companions on some news that we received late yesterday. The Nereid and her support ships did make it past Jehiril. That being the case, I recommended to Captain Traker that he discuss a more direct route to Wildethar rather than first returning to Silverwake."
"Secondly," she picks up a close-fitting mithril helmet and dons it, "your stay in Dafar may be longer than we had initially foreseen. Governor Taurion has been slain by insurgents and her mansion overrun. Instead of serving as a mediator, you will be taking over as Governor. Until then, the port there is under martial law pending your decree."
"Lastly, it appears that saboteurs have struck at more than a few of our naval vessels bound for the region. I would recommend you keep a low profile and make your travel arrangements on a passenger vessel instead."
Alis nods to Felmor to signify that he is free to tend to his preparations.
Once the Knight-Captain has departed with the dwarven butler who delivered your refreshments, Larathiel resumes where she left off. "To answer your question, Mal, unceasing vigilance goes without saying. However, additional preparedness is most certainly warranted. They have long coveted the throne of Ilmarond and given the information you have provided, there is a strong chance they could be the instigators behind the civil unrest in Dafar."
At this, she unsheathes her sword and a strong wind takes you by surprise, blowing your hair and sending flower petals cascading from a nearby cherry tree. She points it at the axe on Mal's hip. "Armed as you are now, all of you are ill-equipped to face such an enemy. Mal, I have our men instructed in defense and healing before all else to ensure their survival when encountering the unexpected. However, without the ability to deliver a strong attack, even a powerful defense only delays the inevitable."
"Before you set sail for Dafar, you are each to equip yourselves with stronger offensive capabilities. Those of you who have weapons suitable for enchantment — this embassy keeps its own smiths on retainer. Visit them and ensure that both your blades and bows receive enhancement. Alis can show you the way."
"Corporal Malandraenas Tylalaes," she rests the blade of her sword on her open palm, "in recognition of your prowess and the successful completion of your most recent assignment, I am hereby promoting you to the rank of Sergeant. You will continue to serve as Princess Alissariel's chief protector. In addition to those duties, you will have authority over the small-team tactics of any lower-ranked members of Ilmarond's military that are joining you."
"Congratulations, Sergeant."
Before turning to go, Larathiel raises her sword to the heavens before sheathing it. Over her shoulder, she calls out, "Mal, I have a new type of weapon that the Aravernim have been testing back in the 'Shade. See me when you have a moment, I think this will be a good match for your affinities..."
With that, Princess Larathiel leaves the rest of you to your privacy and exits the arboretum.
Larathiel appears ready to address Felmor's concerns when Alis gets her attention and nods her head towards a pathway leading away from the glade in which you have been sitting. The elder sister acquiesces and replies, "A moment, Mal, Alis and I need to confer in private."
Larathiel's expression softens ever so slightly and she lays her hand on Alis' shoulder.
"Alis," she says, making a point to use the more casual form of her name, "you have no need to be so formal with your sister. It is as plain as the stars at your birth that these men and women are no mere followers of yours but friends."
The Princess then does something that Mal has never seen in all the years he has served under General Kirmoon, she reaches out and gives Alis a hug!
For two heartbeats, maybe three, Alis sits still as a panicked doe caught in the glare of a bright light. She then throws her arms around her big sister, head tucked beneath her chin as if holding on for dear life.
After a few moments, the two separate. While it escapes the notice of Felmor and Mal, Priyya and Lureene note that Alis is quick to dab away some mascara that had started to run, a clear sign that her eyes had started to tear up.
Priyya:
You can tell that all the tension and anxiety Alis was try to keep pent-up in an attempt to live up to her big sister's example just burst like a dam in a storm. Even now, she's still trying her best to maintain an unshakable and refined exterior. You have the feeling that single act of love and acceptance was something she had desperately longed for.
Once Alis smiles and nods in understanding, Larathiel continues with what she was saying, "While the Ruby Coil's primary goal may have been to lure me out, make no mistake that they would have considered it a great success to have captured you."
"When I was younger, I think it was before you were born, a friendly rival of my brother, a girl by the name of Eidolee, was kidnapped by 'pirate's' from Jehiril and her family yacht burned. It was some time before her house received demands for her ransom, longer than could be attributed to mere thieves. Little did we know then that her will had been compromised by The Cabal. It was several years before the truth came to light but by then, the scions of nearly two dozen prominent houses lay dead by her sword and sorcery."
She looks at Alis with grave seriousness in here eyes. "Eidolee hailed from a family who were ranked as Earls. Yet can you imagine what influence and potential for calamity the Coil would gain if they subverted the will of someone of your rank and authority?"
"Battlefields care not if the blood spilt upon them is that of a sovereign or a servant. It is a sign of your good fortune that you are yet alive to call attention to what could have easily been a fatal mistake. It is honorable to take responsibility for one's errors, yet know this," Larathiel's gaze is hard as steel and twice as sharp. "The experienced warrior does not make the same mistake twice and live to tell of it. Otherwise, others might mistake ineptitude for intent."
"As for the Ruby Coil," she turns to look at Alis, "this is not the first time they have attempted to kidnap a member of the royal family. Given that one of their presumed goals is to see Emperor Laeril reborn, there are a number of rituals they could be contemplating that would require a royal heir. Luckily for Alechsularis and you, your mother's bloodline would exempt you as a viable candidate for such a rite. Laresian and I are not so fortunate."
The small hairs on your neck and arms stand on end as a powerful wave of spiritual pressure washes over you. In an instant, you recognize it as the same sort of sensation as felt back in Valehaven during the battle within Valeria's playhouse. Unlike before though, this is not a singular burst of power but more like a constant stream of such energy. The strength of it makes your chest tighten in fear and your vision is warped as if looking thru the top of a campfire at something beyond.
However, perhaps something in you has changed. Rather than being blown away or crushed to death by the aura, you are able to remain standing and are yet able to draw breath. After a moment, the intensity of Larathiel's gaze softens and the wave of pressure subsides leaving you with goosebumps on your arms, but otherwise physically unaffected. You have little doubt the same could not be said had this encounter taken place before that fateful day in the Cathedral of Alíta not three weeks prior.
Although the hesitation is only a few seconds at most, to Lureene it feels like minutes of uncomfortable silence have passed when Larathiel finally continues, "We should like to imagine that association with a member of our family has yielded a positive influence... and not just on your sense of style."
Malandraenas wrote:
"Well, can't say as to your messages, but we had our fair share of snags along the way. You'll probably want to take that report from Alis, but if you want my perspective, I'm happy to give it."
"There is little doubt that an artful poet such as the Princess might weave a captivating tale in the retelling of your travails. We have much to discuss in confidence so that shall have to wait. At present, that none of you need fear interrupting such artistry, we should prefer to hear your report, Corporal."
Larathiel is looking for something more objective without the added color of poetic license.
SM DC 25:
That said, you can tell that she was sincere about enjoying Alis' stories, although the way Alis' shoulders slump slightly at her elder sister's words, you think this fact may have escaped her.
Not looking for a recap of the whole campaign (we'd be here all week). Rather, if there are any key points or bits of information that stand out as important, those might be good to mention. Narrative or dialog, it makes no difference. It's too late for me to do so now, but I'll have Alis fill-in a few gaps in the morning if work is actually sane Thursday...
"Greetings, Highness. I am Priyya Surya-ka-Vahaak, Warrior-Priestess of Alita and archer of Xerech. I am pleased to meet you."
Xerakai:
"My sister is fortunate to have gained the alliance of a member of your order. May your faith be ever as a beacon shining thru the darkness."
Felmor Traker wrote:
"I be Sir Felmor Traker, Knight of Silverwake and Captain of Estoria. Highness, it be an 'onor ta meet you."
"A son of Aramol knighted by Ilmarond, and yet sailing for Estoria. Truly you are a man of many commitments."
Lureene Ourson wrote:
”Your Highness, I am Lady Lureene Ourson. I am honored by your presense, and I am pleased to meet you. I can see where Princess Alissariel has learned her grace and manners.”
"Has she now?" Larathiel asks. Her gaze shifts to Alis who does her best not to squirm at the implications of such a statement. In spite of the younger sister's uneasiness about such a remark, Larathiel does not seem to judge her sister for whether or not it is accurate. Instead she seems to consider what such attempted flattery says about the woman speaking it. It's nearly imperceptible, perhaps only a trick of light, but for just a moment you think you spy the faintest hint of a smile cross Larathiel's face.
"There are many matters in which I have sought to serve as a role-model for my adopted sisters. However, I assure you that all credit for Alissariel's bearing are rightfully hers. I do however sense that perhaps she has had some influence on you in such matters."
Alis does her best to keep a straight face, but it is nigh impossible for her not to smile at least a little at her big sister's remark.
SM DC 35:
What are you doing in here? Shoo now. Git!
Mal:
While you don't fully catch the meaning of whatever just transpired, knowing you CO, you suspect that she just put one of both of the blondes in their place. Judging by Alis' reaction, you'd put your money on it being Lureene... but not much money though.
Malandraenas wrote:
"Good to see you, sir, though it is a surprise. I thought you'd still be on the exercises in the Daemonshade."
"Indeed, Corporal," she remarks.
Alis looks at Mal imploringly even as he speaks as if that was the one topic she did not want to be raised. Upon hearing the princess' answer, you are certain that she just turned even paler. For her part, Larathiel leans forward and returns Talvyra's affections, stroke her silky black coat lovingly with her left hand.
While she continues to meet the hunting cat's green eyes with her own, she answers in greater detail. "When word reached me that Alissariel had not yet arrived, I thought some calamity had befallen your group. When multiple attempts failed to contact either of you, I left the field and flew here anticipating that I would need to resolve matters in Dafar personally."
"However, seeing that you have all arrived intact, I can only presume that some external agency was foiling such attempts. Please regale me on what has transpired while we take our repast together." She looks at Alis and lays a hand atop hers to steady her nerves, "It would not do for any of you to expire from the fatigue of your journey."
Larathiel takes a seat on one of the marble benches and indicates a spot by her right side where Alis should sit.
"I find," she begins, "that the best way to know someone is not to have them introduced by another, but to hear how they present themselves. Before we share a repast together, I should like to get to know my younger sister's companions better."
She then extends a long, ivory-white hand towards the rest of you indicating that you may feel free to say what you will of yourselves.
Alright, that does it for me tonight. Feel free to say as much or as little as you like in introduction.
Before speaking, the princess of Ilmarond looks out over those who have traveled with her adopted sister. When her green eyes fall upon you, you feel as though you are transfixed by the piercing gaze of a mighty eagle. Her breathing is measured and nearly imperceptible, her expression belying not a hint of emotion for you to read.
Where Alis is short and curvy, her beauty derived as much from her sexuality and charm as anything else, Larathiel stands in stark contrast. Unlike her half-elven sister, Larathiel's beauty is as hard and imposing as a mithril sword. If likened to celestials, Alis seems like a cherub in the presence of a ghaele.
At long last, just before your knees can go numb or Alis becomes stuck in her pose, Larathiel speaks, her voice clear as a clarion, yet with just a hint of softness. "Well met, Princess Kirmoon... Please, all of you, recover."
Upon hearing the word 'recover', Alis stands and the rest of you follow.
"It is a great relief to see your retinue has arrived safely, if later, than expected. Let us retire inside to discuss matters of state."
With that, she walks down the wharf without a word to anyone else until she reaches Roshen. "Your escort of Ilmarond's princess thru your nation has been appreciated, Captain. Now that she has arrived, your service as a liaison is completed. Please report back to your superiors, and inform them to expect our gratitude."
The giant nods his head in acknowledgement and stands aside as the elven woman walks past him and ascends the curving rampway up to the embassay passing a dozen servants and porters who have arrived to move your belongings inside. Alis swiftly follows after her older sister and motions for the rest of you to follow. Only Yvonne remains behind, her work at the waterfront not yet concluded.
