Light and Dark, onto Maroka

Chapter 1: The Grand Entrance

As the imposing city of Negral, the imperial capital of Maroka, came into view, Sord couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the grandeur before him. Tall spires made of blued metal, dark marble structures intricately carved with ornate designs, and magnificent stained glass windows adorned every building.
The contrast with Akilla, the Arganian capital, was striking—the white plastered structures of Akilla symbolized benevolence and nobility, while Marokan architecture exuded a darker, gothic charm that was no less impressive and noble.
Initially, an ominous aura surrounded the city as they approached, but as they entered, the feeling of foreboding transformed into a sense of assurance. The people of Maroka dressed in a manner different from the norms of Argania.
Men wore layers of clothing and well-shined shoes, while women donned multiple pieces of uniformly stylized dresses with large bell skirts and ornate petticoats. Both men and women accessorized with various hats and carried walking sticks.
Throughout the city, Sord noticed the citizens greeting their presumptive monarch, Princess Meiah, with a salute—a closed fist to their chests. The atmosphere felt festive, yet somewhat tense. Meiah's guards seemed on edge, and Sord wondered if they were anticipating an assassination attempt, though the sheer number of guards made it unlikely.
Despite the formality and discipline, curious onlookers tried to catch a glimpse of the princess and her Arganian guest. The children remained surprisingly calm, causing no clamor during the parade. Sord couldn't help but appreciate the dignity and grace with which the Marokan youth carried themselves, reminiscent of noble birth.
In Akilla, many of the poor, ply the capital’s street asking alms from the people and the nobility. It astounded Sord that their young people carried themselves with such dignity worthy of noble birth. As if Meiah was able to sense that Sord was being curious about their dominion, she finally spoke to him.
Of course she can’t be too informal to him since they do have retainers with them, some outside the carriage and one maid attending to her by her side.
Something concerns you Master Blacksmith? Meiah inquired. Sord was surprised she perceived it and responded to her.
Nothing much Milady, but forgive my ignorance, I’m wondering the reason for the absence of the cities urchins, were they ushered away from us?
Sord’s formality, just as much as his question, greatly entertained her and she laugh out loud. With a smile, the Princess explained.
Master Blacksmith, believe me when I say they we do not have any destitute citizens in our dominion, all are treated fairly with dignity and respect.
The Princess’ handmaiden let her finish then reprimanded Sord for being too casual with the Princess.
May I be so bold your imperial highness, but it should serve him well that the Master Smith, to properly address you as befitting your noble stature, she declared.
Meiah held up her hand to let her know it was alright and said to her.
It’s quite alright I permit The Master Blacksmith to be familiar with me, he had become my dearest friend and also, he will become a very important person here in the empire.
The handmaiden gave a slight bow apologizing for her ignorance.
As you will your imperial highness, she ended.
Sord thanks them for educating him and gladly addressed Meiah as your imperial highness as a jest.
She laughed at his antics and begged him to forgo the formality. Sord is not really concerned, his mind is preoccupied with other things. Thinking that protocol is paramount to the Marokan but yet, Meiah have yet to teach him how to address the Imperial family, especially the Dark Queen.
He is unsure if Meiah deliberately done so or just forgot the fact that he is unaware how to conduct himself around her family. Either way he will just plan to be himself and wing it on his natural charisma.

Chapter 2: The Luxurious Abode
At last they draw near the Onyx Palace, an impressive structure with sweeping well-kept gardens with fountains, ivy mazes and numerous gazebos. The palace itself it the most ornate of all of the buildings there, cathedral like structure with steep spires that seemed to pierce the sky.
Gilded, intricately carved black marbles covered the entire palace, more complex and intricate stained glass windows adorned the palace. It is truly a marvel of engineering and architecture, its value seemed incalculable.
As soon as the carriage, the doors swung open, Meiah did not get up outright, she waited until more handmaidens came in to assist her till she’s on the ground. Rows of imperial guards lined the paths on both flanks from the carriage till the entryway.
Soon as the last maid alighted, Sord followed suit. Meiah was greeted by the guards and Marithe came out to meet her, saluted her then took her hand to be escorted inside. But before she did, she turned to Sord and advised him that some of her He will be escorted inside for service.
Service? Sord thought, but before he can get an explanation, another group of handmaidens came out and escorted him in. All their belongings were taken inside, while their cargo was carted to a different location.
He was rushed inside by the handmaidens, all wearing the same uniform, well drilled and efficient in their tasks, they herded Sord deeper into the Onyx palace.
The interior was cavernous, high vaulted ceiling, grand chandeliers lit not by candle but by radiant crystals called Daytraes, they are very expensive and sought after as it provides unfading luminescence that are supposed to last for an eternity.
It’s soft but powerful glow illuminated the grand halls. Sord haven’t had the chance to marvel at the interior, ornate set of arms and armor adorn the place, as well as valuable paintings, art pieces, antique furniture and some interesting pieces of baubles and knickknacks.
After a long walk inside, they reached the secluded hall with multiple entrances and doors, all his belongings were taken by the other handmaidens informing him that they will carry his items to his quarters.
The rest of them instructed him to strip down and proceed inside while we was handed a large towel and washcloth. One handmaiden entered with him making him feel uncomfortable, he expressed that he thinks he knew what to do and may leave him.
Instead of leaving him be, another handmaiden entered and asked him to enter the bath. Much to his chagrin, he followed as instructed. He did strip naked and entered the bath, him bubbling with embarrassment.
The handmaidens poured fragrant hot water in the bath warming it, it seems that the water was also infused with some sort of essential oils. As he soaked he did feel the weariness of travel melting away, the whole bath is made with a different marble, white with streaks of black, gilded of course and finely wrought.
The two ladies stayed standing over him, they did make him uncomfortable. He thought it’s time to get out as he had soaked enough.
But as soon as he stood on of the handmaiden motioned him to sit in an ornate stool as the other guided him to do so.
Then they proceeded to scrub his body which exponentially multiplied his embarrassment telling them that he can do it on his own but the ladies were insistent. Being not used to being manhandled like that it almost traumatized him.
They were there and assisted him get dressed, he was offered a set of Marokan clothing or the ones he had. Of course he chose his own garment.
Feeling red faced but refreshed he was escorted to his room after going through the maze-like corridors and a few flights of stairs he was escorted into a one door at the end of a long hallway, he was surprised and hesitant, to enter as instead of armed guards like he expected, a couple of handmaidens opened the door for him. One of them advised him that if he needed anything at all one of them is always outside his room.
He can only nod to indicate that he understand. The last handmaiden left the room. Looking around they have indeed taken his belongings inside excluding the cargo which was taken to the Imperial customs vault which he was assured will be safe.
The room is no less grand, he estimated that it’s even bigger that his forge and may fit inside this room. It was well kept and lit with numerous Daytraes crystals instead of candles and oil lamps. It was getting dark and wonders if they will call him for supper.
He explored his room and found it to be well stocked with arms, shields and armor, ample mirrors on all sides and various pieces of artwork like paintings and statuettes.
A desk is provided complete with writing materials and supplies, various cabinets, armoires and tables as well. All looked expensive as their craftsmanship are impeccable and fine. He loved exploring the room and got lost in his world in exploration.
He was impressed of the level of luxury he’s seeing here. The bed was a four poster with a large canopy and the windows are beautiful art pieces themselves, looking out he felt nauseous at the dizzying height he’s room was in, but a beautiful sight the outside was, with the sun fast setting and the moons of Norewald slowly rise above the horizon.
While lost in thought, there was a knock on his door. He smelled scrumptious food outside his door as his keen sense of smell tells him.
So, no dinner invitation for him he thought silently, of course they still won’t trust him so easily, he must earn it first, but it’s all good, for now he’ll just enjoy a meal in his room, he’s puzzled though that, there is no internal guards to keep an eye on him.

Chapter 3: A Midnight Encounter
He opens the door of his temporary residence. The handmaidens that attended to him earlier had wheeled in his meal in three carts and set a nearby table for dining, as they apologize for their intrusion.
Sord remembering the earlier assistance, shyly asked them if he can partake in his meal alone, he admitted he was not used to being waited upon.
They complied saying they understand if that was his wished, and excused themselves after setting his table. Sord apologized to them for causing them trouble. They bowed out.
It was the most luscious spread of food he had seen in his life, he sampled the savory soup, relishing every sip of the delightful warm concoction, he can’t even identify some of the ingredients used.
Next he tried the bread, it was still warm as if fresh out of the oven, it’s rind crackled as he tore it apart releasing rich aroma of premium wheat, honey, milk and butter, it’s shape is perfect and stamped with the imperial seal on top.
The bread was delicious and went well when accompanied with a thick stew full of meat and fresh vegetables, a myriad of flavors exploded into his mouth, he tasted spices he never had before which brought a rich variety of textures and flavor.
Though the amount of food served to him could have fed five hungry party members, he felt that he can finish it off by himself, which was probably not a good Idea. He next turned his attention to the expertly plated meat, it seemed to have been basted with a variety of sauces and spices, and slow roasted.
The meat was practically coming off the bone, seemed like a rib of pork and beef, each end was wrapped in white gilded paper for him to use as a finger hold.
In the side, he next sampled a meat pie, it was steaming hot so much so that it warmed him to the core, forgetting the cold night of the northern continent. The pie was sweet and savory at the same time, filled with various minced meats vegetable and some fruits. Steamed grains were also served, steeped and cooked in meat stock and butter.
He admitted that he had not had these type of food before. He then realized that the poor offerings he cooked for the princess and appreciated that regardless of the absence of this kind of luxury, she till ate his cooking without complaints casting doubt if Meiah truly enjoyed his cooking a she said.
Dismissing the notion, he enjoyed his meal and reflecting on the past events and wonders if they others were making good progress going home. He worries of the involvement of this so called Sancti, demon hunters.
Somehow he felt it is connected to his mother, hopefully the other will return swiftly and tell Xerranna the information. For now he can’t return not until he had accomplished what he came there to do.
Besides, it is highly possible that he’s being watched at all times, it’s unimaginable for him to think that the Marokans would let a virtually unknown Arganian wandering around their inner sanctum.
After a few hours, night fell on Maroka, peering outside his lofty window, he sees the street come alive with the luminescence of gas lit streetlights.
Homes were alight with warm amber lights. He now wonders if his food trays would be taken away. No one was coming.
He peers out of his room into the hallway, he did not see the handmaiden across the hall, and it seemed the corridor was empty. Curiosity got the better of him and he ventured out of his room and into the empty corridor, parts of which was dimly lt.
He marveled at the larger than life paintings of Maroka’s past ancestors, oddly for a matriarchal ruler ship, the portraits all depicts men.
He decided to bring with him the empty trays as an excuse to explore the place claiming to be looking for the kitchen if questioned.
Like a child lost in his little world while exploring the grand palace, he admired the intricate artwork and craftsmanship of the weapons and armors there. He thought them to be a bit dated but beautiful nonetheless.
Minutes passed quickly as he got absorbed in his little expedition. He finally see what looked like indications of a kitchen and headed towards it, he’d get rid of his trays and dishes and return to his quarters, if he can find the way back somehow, Sord has terrible sense of direction.
Entering the kitchen, Sord called out for anyone there, but no one seemed to be around. He loudly announced that he appreciates the meal and will leave the used tray and plates there. As he place the dishes on the long table, a figure emerged from the back of the kitchen.
A woman dressed in long nightgown holding a little plate of cake greeted Sord, she did looked out of place in the kitchen and assumed she maybe one of the head maiden or something, a majordomo perhaps.
Though all Marokan he met so far carried themselves with such dignity, it was quite hard for him to distinguish noble from commoners, but something tells him that this person was more than just a handmaiden.
She was as tall as Meiah but more slender and had darker hair, she is graceful and kind looking. Eyes wise beyond her years. She sat on the table in the kitchen so he’s sure she’s not a noble.
As she sat down to eat the cake, Sord remarked that he had the same one and praised it for its deliciousness and expressed that he wished he can thank the baker.
The woman remarked that she’ll make sure his kind words reaches the chef. And asked Sord a question as she takes a bit of her cake.
Who pray tell, might you be? Sord gave a shallow bow and introduced himself.
I apologize Milady, where are my manners. I’m Sord of Swambugh, a master smith, invited guest of her imperial highness, princess Meiah.
And you may call me Lilly, The woman replied, Well met young one, you must be very brave to have come out here to our dark lands, I shall not pry into your business Master smith, but would you be willing indulge my curiosity how you and her imperial highness managed to survive such perilous journey, I’m afraid our life inside these walls I admit, is a little drab and could use a tale or two, please spare no details. She requested with the most pleasant voice with a hint of allure and anticipation.
He’s a bit puzzled to be called young one by a woman hardly looking like she’s barely out of her late twenties. Then Sord thought for a moment, thinking of the consequences if he tells her the true accounts of their journey, he weighed the pros and cons but found nothing of consequence so he decided to be honest about it but may leave some details out.
Sord consented and sat down and recounted their journey for her, starting when they left the Black fort till they reached the border of Maroka. The woman asked him a few questions here and there and seemed genuinely interested in his story, some might have sounded straight fiction as the deed they were able to pull off were indeed nothing short of fantastical and legendry.
A Tarrasque you say? How terrifying. And her imperial highness were in the forefront of it all? How intriguing. They spent a good few hours together and from time to time she would ask Sord to hold off for a bit while she takes more snacks and drinks from the pantry serving Sord some tea and pastries.
Sord found her intriguing, as well as honest. They shared a few laughs here and there when recounting the antics of some of his party members.
When an awkward silence drew, Lilly seemed to be forlorn but then brighten up, looked him in the eyes and admitted that she believes his tales, and expressed that she envies princess Meiah for having such a grand adventure and regrets she never had one as epic.
Sord assured her that she’s still young and had a bright future ahead, and expressed that unlike the nobles of all kingdoms, it was they the common person, the ones not bound to duty, has the most opportunity to find their place in the world, Sord convinces her not to be discouraged.
Lilly thought for a bit and asked him if he truly meant what he said, because it may be too late for her. Sord assured her the future is not set and one must grasp the future she wants for herself.
She expressed a great admiration of him and pray he never lose his refreshing outlook in life.
She explained that she suffered great tragedy and had lived in a bleak outlook of her future. But thanked Sord for sharing part of his experiences.
Sord asked her not to mind it, he himself is a victim of loss but had triumph over it, and expressed that she too, can overcome.
And as long as the princess needed him, he can stay at the palace where they can have many story telling sessions in the future. She said that he must then promise that. Without second thoughts, he promised.
Lilly apologized that she need to retire soon and hoped they’ll have this kind of talk again someday and bowed gracefully, but before she left she whispered how envious she was with Meiah. Before leaving the kitchen, Sord stopped and turned back to her to ask.
Milady, I's not quite sure if I was permitted to wander about but I do not want you to get in trouble with the mistress of the house, It may serve us for now to be discreet just perhaps for the meantime?
She understood what he meant, the boy wanted to keep their encounter quiet, she instantly knew he was doing it in consideration of her, which pleases her immensely.
If you wish so Mastersmith, I promise I will, for now. Thus she gracefully disappeared in the dimly lit halls.
Sord reflects for a while on their encounter, he decided that she's a good person and thought maybe made his first friend in a long while He then wanders off in search of his assigned room.
Sord eventually made his way back to his room and was alarmed that his door was ajar, light seeping through the gap into the dimly lit hallway.
He cautiously peered in as quietly as possible and to his surprise, there he saw Meiah soundly seeping on his bed.

Chapter 4: Her feelings
Sord entered the room casually and approached the sleeping princess. He decided not to wake her, thinking about the time they slept in the great outdoors. He admired the hardiness of this damsel and was quite sure that she was comfortable slumbering on the luxurious bed. It was getting quite cold.
He shut the windows and door and tended to the fire in a grand fireplace, which he couldn't help but admire the exquisite beauty of the fixture as he added some more fuel. Those were not firewood but bricks of powdered combustibles which burned longer with less smoke and were more efficient. He wondered how they made those.
Going back to Meiah, he gazed upon her sleeping form. He was surprised that she wore a plain sleeping gown. He fully expected that she would be garbed with the finest silk adorned with precious materials. She somehow reminded him of Lilly.
Sord leaned over the sleeping princess just to get a finely crafted quilted blanket and gently covered her with it. His keen sense of smell got a whiff of her scent, the sweet, wispy fragrance of flowers pleasantly washed over his senses. Meiah's scent was wonderfully overwhelming, making him feel warm inside.
Quietly, he opted to settle on a comfortable-looking couch and decided to turn in for the night. He didn't bother to change into his sleeping garment and drifted off to sleep.
Meiah was actually awake and only pretended to sleep. She had fallen asleep waiting for him and wondered where he went. She thought she would dine with him and showcase the Marokan cuisine to Sord, but when she arrived at his room, it was empty.
She was sure she explicitly instructed the handmaidens to bring him to this room and send food, then leave him alone after. No, she was certain this was the correct chambers and decided to wait for him and find out what happened. She underestimated her weariness and fatigue, and she didn't realize she dozed off, only to be awakened from sensing a presence outside the door. Sord entered.
Somehow she decided to pretend to be sleeping just to see what Sord would do. A mixture of thoughts and emotions raced through her mind, making her a bit nervous, but she did her best to keep those in check. It seemed to work as Sord did not try to wake her. But when he closed the windows and door, her heart leapt, unsure of his intentions now.
As Sord tended to the fire, she awaited his next move with anticipation. She could barely keep her heart from leaping out of her chest. Then, Sord moved closer to her and gazed upon her for a while.
She sensed Sord bending down over her, his chest and leg came into contact with her side. She did not know what to expect and thought that if she thinks he's going to do what she's thinking, she did not know how to react. Perhaps a slap across his face and a reprimand for his inappropriate behavior or reciprocate and be honest about her feelings to him.
She decided that whatever the case, she would accept him and demand that he takes responsibility for his actions. She held her breath in the course of it, and the anticipation was killing her. Internally, she whispered, "Hurry up, you fool, don't make me suffer."
However, the bubble of her fantasy burst when Sord just intended to get the blanket and cover her with it. The mood was anticlimactic for her. She was relieved but more disappointed than anything. Her feelings were quite conflicted for a moment, but in a moment of clarity amid the sea of confusion, a realization congealed in her thought, a strong desire, and a decision. Yes, she had decided.
Sensing Sord had fallen into deep slumber, assured that in this state he was oblivious to his surroundings, she got up, and it was her turn to gaze upon him. It was rare to get an opportunity to see him like this, a moment that was just the two of them alone.
She looked upon him, studied his sleeping form, and savored every detail of him. She admired his innocent face, his pale flawless skin, and even his long raven black hair was beginning to endear her. She couldn't help but touch his long locks and was pleasantly surprised it was actually soft and fragrant.
Not stopping from exploring the sleeping youth, she then took his hand into hers, caressed his palms, and ran her fingers in between his. Such small hands she thought, so delicate and fine, those hands did not belong to a blacksmith or even a fighter. His callouses were nothing compared to what she had in her palms. She wondered how could this be. Such massive power in such a small body.
She held his hands for quite a while, warm feeling wells within her chest, excitement coursed throughout her entire being, rushing through her blushing cheeks. She reflected on his naïve nature. She thought to herself, "You are so unfair, Sord."
She finally let his hands go and let him slumber in peace. She had explored quite a bit of him. His tunic was left undone when she ran her hands and fingers across his chest and his neck. It was the body of a boy not past his seventeenth summer, but yet this was a man who was now on his twenty-first season in life. She could not help but marvel at the seemingly ordinary visage before her.
Most of the powerful people with high strengths are very bulky and muscular, hulking forms that showcase their inhuman powers. But this before her was quite unfair, she thought. As surely anyone facing him would certainly underestimate him and would pay a high price for looking down on him.
But more than that, she was drawn to Sord the first time she met him, not just because of his unassuming charm but his straight morals genuine care for his friends and loved ones. A man one can count on, a sincere man.
Yes, she thought she had decided, he is the one, finally. With a mischievous grin, she locked the door and turned the key, ensuring no one could enter. She went back to the bed, forsaking any more thoughts of consequences. She simply didn't care anymore.
She went back to the luxurious bed and covered herself with the blanket and let herself off to sleep, to dream of her innermost desires. She gazed upon him, sleeping across the room in the equally luxurious couch and whispered to herself, "Good night, my hero." Sleep took her, content and peaceful.

Chapter 5 Queen's heart
Lilly, returned to her bedchambers and dismissed all her handmaidens as she expressed she wanted to be alone. They saluted her and left, one of them dared peek a sideways glance at Lilly as she was a bit in disbelief and wanted to make sure her eyes wasn’t playing tricks with her, she did indeed saw it. Lilly, the Dark Queen, one perpetually in mourning, one who they never saw, not even once, crack a smile.
There, for a fleeting moment before they completely felt the Mistresses’ grand bedchambers, saw The Dark Queen smiling happily. Wondering what on Norewald could have happen or was it possibly that the somber queen had finally become unhinged. The handmaiden, secretly wished she was just imagining things.
Lilly on the other hand was unaware she was beaming, she was just reflecting on his earlier encounter with the young Arganian. He was such a peculiar young man, he had such presence that can’t be ignored, and it wasn’t unpleasant though, but rather comforting. One of her powers are that she can immediately tell what a person’s intentions and if one was lying to her, it seemed that he was mostly honest with her but sensed that he had not told her everything.
Usually reserved and severe to any other persons not giving her the proper respect as the absolute ruler, but this young man has a certain disarming quality, and his honesty and politeness that naturally comes out gave her a sense of familiarity, of course she tried checking the boy for any magic that he could be using against her but oddly, she found nothing.
However she was concerned that it was undeniable, he has within in he some sort of great power she barely understands. So this was the Arganian her daughter brought, the one that would make Maroka the undisputed military power, possible in all of Argan. She thought, he was indeed something more than meets the eye. She had heard the reports from the outposts and of her spies.
She has a more or less, a basic understanding of her daughter’s relation with the master smith and the so called Greymalkins. She had heard of the group’s name before, when it was previously called the Greymalkin Adventurers led my Narrox and Xerranna.
She’s curious about the things the lad withheld to her, and no matter how hard she tried, it would seem he’s impervious to her charms, which if used on others, can completely fall under her spell. This did not concerned her but is greatly intrigued. However, her pleasant interactions with him is what she craved the most.
For the moment, she disregarded the things that weighed heavily on her shoulders, the succession, her grief, the entire burden of ruler ship. He remembers Sord’s interactions with him, so naïve and refreshing, it was so long when she last had informal interactions with someone. She didn’t realized she wanted that. It was so long ago when she decided she had no need of it.
Sord’s words echoed in her thought that it wasn’t too late to grab the future and go out in an adventures. Maybe it would be possible if she finally is released from the bondage of the Obsidian throne, to finally break the shackles of monarchy. Yes, she thought that perhaps her new goal, her destiny was out there.
Her thoughts came back to the young man. Afraid of many questions about him. His true purpose coming there and his influence on her daughter or vice versa. At least for now, she thought of drowning herself on the pleasant memory of the Arganian and played scenarios on what is her next move the next time they meet, surely he will find out that she was actually the dark queen, for now she takes great pleasure with those thoughts and dismisses all the other concerns, just for now.

Chapter 6: Itinerary.
As the sun began to rise upon the so-called dark land, the city below was already abuzz with activities. Shops and markets opened, households and their maids prepared for the day, and men readied themselves for work. Children played games in the streets while Marokan civil guards patrolled the area. Civil guards being the universal term for keepers of the peace, non-military law enforcers, the police so to speak. The bells tolled to indicate the hour of the day.
Sord marveled at the free commerce in the city and how happy the merchants seemed. He had awoken before dawn and saw the princess sleeping soundly. He wondered if she usually slept in when at home, as surely the royal's days were filled with activities if he was not mistaken. Regardless, he was glad she was able to rest and recover her strength.
He had pushed her hard during her training, and it showed that she had vastly improved during the months they were together in training and adventuring. He appreciated that she had learned much from him and was able to apply all she learned.
He was afraid of the extreme height but could not resist the beauty of the view from his window. He sat on the window sill, and his reverie was interrupted with a knock on the door. He went over and was surprised that it was locked. He was sure he left it unlocked when he turned in.
Upon letting the maids in, they wheeled in trays of food on a cart and set the tables. Upon noticing the princess on the bed, the handmaidens looked at each other and hurriedly left, even leaving the carts. Sord was puzzled a bit but suspected that the princess spending the night there had something to do with it. Confident he could explain the matter to anyone, he took time to see what the offerings were for the morning.
Shortly after, a lone familiar face went into the room. It was Marithe, and with some urgency, she was seemingly trying to confirm if the princess was truly there. But then, with a relieved look, she went over to the princess and woke her. She expressed that she was worried when she did not find her at her own bedchambers.
Meiah, half-awake, stretched her body with a hearty yawn and apologized for worrying her. She said that she went there to dine with Sord but got tired instead of waiting for him and slept there. Marithe then shifted her attention to preparing breakfast on the table for the two. While she was at it, she asked the princess if they did something inappropriate, nonchalantly.
The princess was a bit annoyed by the question, aware of the scandal it would generate should the situation become public. She gave a scathing reply to Marithe.
"Of course not, Master Sord is a perfect gentleman and would NOT take advantage of a helpless maiden," she sneered with bitterness. "We didn't even have the chance to have dinner, and there was no food sent in last night. Maybe that's why he wasn't here when I got here."
Her tone of voice took Marithe aback, and she apologized for her impudence in insinuating improper behavior. She noticed a hint of frustration in the princess's voice and perhaps wondered if she was expecting the boy to actually do something.
Sord interjected and profusely apologized. He recounted that food was actually brought there but thought it was too much. He did not know the reason at the time and apologized to Meiah that he was unaware she intended to have a meal with him. The reason he was out of his room was that he looked for the kitchen to return the used dining items and got lost going back. He did not, however, mention his encounter with Lilly.
Marithe cautioned Sord that he should not go meandering about. There were times when the other princesses walked the hall at night on a whim, as did the Dark Queen. She expressed that they may not be so forgiving to outsiders if found recklessly wandering without reason.
Sord apologized and looked at Meiah. He said that he would remember it moving forward and, to his defense, hinted that perhaps the princess forgot to educate him on matters like that. In a playful mood, Meiah jumped in and sat next to Sord, wrapping her arms around his and leaning her head on his shoulder, asking him to forgive her for her lack of foresight.
As Marithe put food on their plates, seeing the behavior of the princess, she covered her mouth as she coughed to catch the princess's attention. But when the initial coughs were left ignored, she did it a few more times. With a hint of irritation, Meiah asked if Marithe had caught a cold.
Sord innocently chimed in and said that some ginger tea does wonders for an itchy throat. A vein in Marithe's temple pulsed, and she said she had not caught a cold or sore throat. Sord was puzzled. What could it be? Meiah told him that it was probably either the "Medlingbone Syndrome" or most likely nothing at all, and he should ignore it. Sord just shrugged and said that if she says so and asked what was a "Medlingbone Syndrome."
Marithe knew that Sord was honestly clueless, but it was a sure euphemism, a way of the princess saying to mind her own business. Meiah tried to dismiss Marithe so she could spend more time with Sord and perhaps confront him with her feelings, but the bodyguard/handmaiden was adamant and said that the Dark Queen herself asked her to watch over the two of them.
Sord said that he understood and did not mind her company, as he was a stranger loose in the palace, which was indeed a security concern. Meiah, being more irritated, grudgingly agreed with Sord, foiled in her attempt to put her heart on her sleeves.
Marithe presented their itinerary for the next few weeks. They found that the first activity would be that Sord would be presented to the Queen and each of the other princesses for their own assessment in about three days' time. Then, he would be presented to the nobles and war council in a banquet in a month's time. If all went well, Sord would proceed to be introduced to the manufacturing guild.
This was a concern to Meiah as the so called assessment is to be conducted in private a succession of meetings with each if her family members. She was especially wary as it was a possible opportunity to influence the subject or even seduce them, it’s not that he did not trust Sord but she’s certain that her mother or sisters may use their feminine charms to get the truth out of him, she’s banking on Sord’s perceptive nature if not for his naivetés. More so, she fears them stealing him away from her.
Regarding Meiah, she was to present the evidence of the accomplishment of her tasks a week after the banquet and then the trials proceeding after that. Hence, they needed to survive for about six weeks, given that Sord passed the initial interviews and successfully stayed on the palace grounds.
To address her concerns, Meiah decided to take action and prepare Sord for the upcoming assessments. She spent time with him, discussing the personalities and tendencies of each family member and how to handle them. She emphasized the importance of being honest and straightforward while also being cautious and aware of any ulterior motives.
Meiah also made sure that Sord was aware of the potential risks and dangers of the assessments and how to avoid falling into any traps. She stressed the importance of staying true to himself and his values, even in the face of temptation.
In addition, Meiah made sure that Sord was well-versed in the customs and traditions of Marokan royalty and how to conduct himself in a manner befitting a guest of honor. She provided him with a detailed itinerary of the assessments and made sure that he was well-prepared for each meeting.
Overall, Meiah's concerns were valid, but she took proactive steps to address them and ensure that Sord was well-equipped to handle the assessments. With her guidance and support, she was confident that Sord would succeed and prove his worth to her family.
Furthermore, Meiah made sure Sord was aware of the potential risks and dangers and how to avoid falling into any traps. She wanted him to be well-versed in Marokan royalty customs and traditions, ensuring he would conduct himself appropriately as a guest of honor.
As they continued their conversation, Meiah shared brief summaries of her family members. Her mother, the Dark Queen, was a strict disciplinarian with unwavering adherence to protocol. Meiah explained that her mother had been mourning the loss of her father, General Sorian, the Dark Queen's consort, for years, and had not taken any other consorts since his passing. Sord empathized with the Queen's grief, understanding the depth of her love for her late husband.
Next, Meiah described her middle sister, Sere, as the more bookish and research-oriented of the siblings. Sord was warned about her cunning and deviousness, but Meiah was relieved that Sere's interests mostly revolved around her studies and magic research.
The most concerning family member was their eldest sister, Alea. As the presumptive heir to the throne, she harbored ambitious and bloodthirsty intentions. Driven by vengeance, she sought to subjugate Molokkai to the south and purged the imperial court of non-humans. Meiah feared that Alea's hatred for non-humans might plunge the Dominion into chaos.
Sord couldn't help but sense that Meiah was being overly cautious with her warnings about her family. He thanked her for sharing this information, expressing admiration for her ability to navigate the treacherous waters of the Marokan Imperial court.
As they prepared for the tasks ahead, they were acutely aware of potential dangers lurking within the Onyx Palace. Sord asked Meiah if she could give him a tour of the palace and its grounds to familiarize himself further. Meiah agreed, with the exception of a few restricted places belonging to the Queen and her sisters.
Unbeknownst to anyone but Meiah, Sord possessed a secret ability—an ability to bend space or even time. Although he rarely used it due to the unknown consequences, he saw it as a potential lifeline in case of emergencies. With this ability, he could return to any place he had been before. As uncertainty loomed ahead, Sord knew that this unique power might come in handy during their stay at the Onyx Palace.

Chapter 7: Shadows of Conspiracy
In the shadows of the Dominion, a clandestine gathering known as the Hand of Light plotted and schemed. Comprising a cabal of Marokan dissidents and malcontents, they fervently called for radical change, seeking an end to the matriarchy that currently governed their society. They had infiltrated every level of governance with spies, cunningly gathering information from within the Dark Queen's circle itself. Their spies unknowingly reported to the Hand, ensuring they remained well-informed while leaving no trace of their involvement.
This secret meeting took place in an underground chamber within the capital city of Negral. Seated around a circular table, the members wore noble attire, yet they were far from being noble-born. Among them were influential merchants and guild leaders, who shared a dream of a utopia where the people would determine their rulers, free from the grip of the elite. Their ideals, however, varied, as some were driven by genuine zeal for liberty, while others were crafty, power-hungry individuals seeking to overthrow the current regime for their personal gain.
They had orchestrated the death of the Queen's consort and planted seeds of distrust among her family members. The Hand's ultimate goal was to topple the current regime and establish a new government—one free from the restrictive laws that stifled their growth and expansion.
The Hand's leaders, the Logoss, manipulated nobles, gained government positions, and positioned themselves as saviors of the people. They presented a facade of equality and inclusivity while secretly harboring prejudice against non-humans, evident in the lack of diverse representation within their ranks.
As they waited for all members to arrive, the Hand and Logoss sat in anticipation. The arrival of a much-awaited sponsor, an honored guest, marked the beginning of the agenda. The meeting commenced with a rite of sharing wine, symbolizing trust and equality, followed by the recitation of oaths in unison.
A ranking member began addressing the gathering, thanking the gods for their safe arrival. The meeting officially began with the banging of a crystallized skull on the table. The members discussed unexpected complications to their plans—Princess Meiah's journey to Argania. Though they had hoped to eliminate her during this mission, they now feared that her interaction with an Arganian defector, knowledgeable in advanced metallurgy, might strengthen Maroka's military.
Heated arguments ensued among the members, prompting the ranking member to silence them with the crystal skull. He reassured the assembly that their plans could still proceed, despite these unforeseen circumstances. They needed to gather more information about Meiah's mission and whether she succeeded in her task. If she failed, the path would be clear for Alea, Llarranah IV, the eldest sister, to ascend to the throne and discredit Meiah and her sister Seers.
The members planned to strike during a brief window of opportunity when the Obsidian Throne temporarily remained vacant, after the previous Dark Queen broke her bonds from it. However, one member raised concerns about the Arganian defector's rumored capabilities. The others dismissed these rumors, assuming him to be just a backwater Arganian seeking to profit by selling secrets.
The Hand was determined to create more chaos in the imperial household. They planned to task more assassins and falsely blame the older sisters for the killings. Additionally, they had kidnapped and killed demi-human families, intending to frame Alea for these atrocities.
Then the leader, a ranking member of the Hand, reports that they have kidnapped and killed a few demi-human family, residents of Negral, so that they can blame that solely on the First princess Alea. The Logoss were please. The honored guest expressed his hope that soon, the darkness of the dominion would be bared for all to see and is sure that the citizens would see that they are ruled by devils and demons, and that they promise, if they appeared, they would crush those.
As cheers erupted, the sinister alliance of the Hand of Light and the covert Sancti reveled in their malevolent plans, preparing to unleash chaos upon the Dominion. Unbeknownst to the Dark Queen and her family, a shadowy conspiracy had taken root, threatening to plunge Maroka into turmoil and upheaval.

Chapter 8: A dark hand
As the unholy cabal disperse, determined to fulfill their nefarious plans, their honored guest, the member of the Sancti, emerges from a dark alley in the heart of the capital, immediately, was whisked away by a waiting carriage bearing the insignia of a prestigious trading company rooted in Negral called Mercer and Valiant trading. It is as large as a company can get.
The man heading it is Adonn Mercer, a relative new comer in the dry goods trading and has established a solid base in Negral. However, Adonn also covertly runs other trading outfits in other Marokan Cities. Marokan law forbids a single family running franchises or creating a syndicated corporation. The Anti-cartel law. His illegal operation is done via false ownerships.
Most merchants are surprise of the rapid rise of the Mercer and Valiant Company, usually an upstart business takes decades to prosper. Little did they know, it was back by a foreign power, by the shady Sancti of the Arganian Empire. Adonn Mercer is an agent of the Sancti. His original order was to spy on the Dark Queen and verify the existence of Demonic presence therein, they suspect that the Dark Queen may be involved in the infernal or perhaps an infernal herself.
However Adonn had grown fond of his position in the Marokan society, during his investigation, there was no evidence that the Imperial family had any ties to any infernal affairs. But he reported that the Queen was indeed a devil and the ruling family, he convinced the Sancti that Maroka is a threat to the Arganian Empire and proposed to set up a revolution internally.
It was debated whether it was appropriate to move against another power and could plunge the Arganian Empire into war should they be discovered. But the majority of the Sancti leadership reminded them that their purpose is the elimination of all outerplaners regardless where they were. And so, the Sancti went ahead and supported Adonn’s plans and financed his operation as a bonus, once the secret cabal takes power, they promised an alliance with Argania, A prospect the Emperor would surely appreciate.
His plan was almost perfect until the unexpected arrival of the third princess and another Arganian complicated the matter, also a new mission was added to his ordering him to investigate four missing Sancti agents tailing one of their citizens rumored to be defecting to Maroka who was connected to their own Praetor Xerranna. The four went missing near the Arganian border. This will further delay his plans cursed Adonn.
Those senile old fools that still believed in Demons and Angels, Adonn thought. Unlike the other brainwashed agents, he managed to stay as himself even after the transcendence ceremony somehow. His lucked turned to his advantage when he was sent to the mysterious dark kingdom. Unable to accept that this Dominion had been doing better that the Arganian Empire all along. This symbol of malice in the north he found to be more benevolent that the white towers of Argania which he believed have been festering from within.
No He cannot accept that, he believed that only Argania remain the salient bastion of light and must topple this Dark Queen and her family that hinders the growth of his corporation. He must act now, he perceived the Logoss were too slow. He leaned over to his assistant, a bespectacled man holding a ledger. He asked to summon to his office Narach the deathdealer, he has a job for her.
Narach is a not a name known to the common person, her name is only heard in whispers in the darkest corners of the dominion, no one summons her, only her underlings that deals in deaths, she is the guild master of the assassins guild, her presence brings ominous tidings of doom. For a man to summon her must be no ordinary man at all.
The Assassins guild is one of a few organization that escapes the notice of the civil guards. They are very careful and methodical in their work, they are masters of killing without rousing suspicions by sabotage and staging accidents, illness and avoids violent deaths inside the capital. Such brutish methods are best done outside the city.
Narach enjoys smoking her pipe, a tall slender woman, brash personality and explosive temper which are legendary. Grew up in the slums of Tarak, the capital of Molokkai and was sold as a slave in Pel’torah, she escaped and made her way to Val’hesta in Maroka. There as a young girl was taken in and mentored by a master assassin and soon took over his operation. She is tenacious, focused and merciless. She is also charismatic and had garnered many loyal followers in different sectors of her trade.
Annoyed at the arrival of a message from Adonn Mercer, she hated the man, something was off about him. Definitely Arganian, but does not pry too deeply as even she knows that it was not wise to peer into an abyss. As ruthless as she was, she does it as work, but not Adonn, she views him as a more chaotic force than herself. But she can’t ignore him, he’s a source of finance to her organization, even though she hears that he’s also funding those Hand of light zealots, an organization that she does not understand, a bunch of idealistic lunatics.
Must be a job she thought and leisurely made her way to the merchant’s office. It’s not all bad, she paid handsomely on all his commissions so far and believes this one was no different. She grabbed her cloak, upon pulling on its cowl, she disappeared from sight, moving silently. She reached the office of the man and sat in his luxurious leather covered chair behind a massive bureau, stacked with unfinished paperwork.
This is not bad she thought as she reclined the seat and put her feet up upon the large desk. In a short while, Adonn finally entered his office there he found Narach behind his desk. She got up to let the man sit and she sat on the table, crossing her slender, shapely legs while leaning over the desk. She asked what was so important that she herself needed to see him and a reason why she shouldn’t slit his throat right then and there.
Adonn made a face asking her not to be so grumpy. He said he needed her best crew. She said that her best crew was training for their possible suicide mission of attacking the Imperial family on their coronation day and that she does not have any other to spare. He expressed that he needed her to personally attend to the hit. He promised to pay her so handsomely that she can even retire afterward. Intrigued, she asked who the marks were.
He unlocked and opened his desk, taking out a box presenting it to her. Narach took a peak in the box and promptly shut it. Slamming it into his desk and remarked if he’s out of his mind.
He countered that she’s already committed in attacking the imperials, why does she hesitate in going after the third princess. If she can eliminate her early, the less complicated their schemes would be. She called him a fool as she wasn’t referring to the princess, and said did he not know how dangerous the Arganian she’s with?
He tried to dismiss the young Arganian as his spies reports he’s just a blacksmith. However, Narach rebutted that her spies reported differently, her organization received numerous eye witness reports from deep within Molokkai that the boy took out a Tarrasque and as proof they’re still trading for the monsters parts till now. He chides her for believing such exaggerated reports and teased her if she lost her edge, afraid a little Arganian boy. And hinted that she may lose face if news of her not taking the job may tarnish her reputation.
She can’t argue with that but during the parade she caught a glimpse of the boy and sis feel a strong unknown power within him, a menacing aura that she could sense. It’s her business to know if any threats comes near her territory, they are on a constant look out and the news from the south was foreboding. She knew Adonn was bad news and it was only a matter of time before he brings her more. Given that the news were greatly exaggerated, she could not fathom the power this boy carries and wonders if she can even kill him, but no matter.
Adonn only wanted the princess gone if she can avoid confrontation the better, it did excite her somewhat facing a string opponent she never backed down before. And she wanted the money so she agreed.
Before she vanished from sight, she left Adonn some advice, she said it’s often better to quit while one’s ahead.
Like it or not, Narach needed to handle it with herself, the job requires careful planning and perfect timing. She’ll need to dig deep into her skills, she never had to go up against a royal and the prospect of raising a hand against them is unsettling for her. She’s getting a bad feeling about this job.
She still reflects the day she gazed upon the princess’ carriage to find out about this ominous energy she’s sensing ever since they paraded in the city, shock and horror greeted her, something she saw that no one else could not. A massive well of mysterious energy pouring out of the unassuming passenger in that carriage, an Arganian buy. If she did not steeled herself she would have instinctively fled. She pushed the memory aside for now, it’s time to plan.

Chapter 9: Shadows and Secrets
Meiah tours Sord around the palace taking him to every nook and cranny she could. She finds his curiosity rather amusing, however as they methodically went about the interior, they seemed to be oblivious of a shadowy figure intently observing them. If one is able to observe the observer, they would see a silhouette of a woman in a hooded cloak holding a book, she was the second Princess Sere.
She followed them once she sensed them, travelling via shadows, she herself is cloaked in the inky darkness, sliding, hidden by the veil of the darkness of the halls. She noted the interest princess Meiah is showing to her foreign guest, she finds it strange as she declined every suitors that came her way. To Sere, Meiah’s behavior was odd, something about her had changed and she guessed that her guest must have something to do with it. In her mind she must investigate.
The Arganian intrigued her, to her surprise. She wanted to observe more but Sere lives on her strict schedule and must attend to other things, she thought that she had been distracted long enough. Anyway she will have the chance to see Meiah’s guest soon, then, she will have her answers.
Taking the better part of the day, Meiah had taken Sord to all of the places inside the palace, introducing him to the staff as that met. It was well past the noon and the princess was getting hungry and had her handmaidens prepare food for them at one of the gazebos in the courtyard.
Sord complemented the beauty of her home especially the well-kept gardens which were perfectly manicured. Sord felt that the Palace grounds were secure as numerous guards were always posted in all portals and some roams round. In a short while, their meal was brought out, Sord was thankful he was able to partake in such a feast. Meiah expressed that she does misses his stew. He offered to make it for her sometime, which she was elated to hear.
She reflects on the events the other night on how she’s so bold in admitting to him her feelings but wasn’t able too. The presence of Marithe prevented her to say. She promised herself that she would confess next opportunity she gets, now that Marithe wasn’t there now, she hesitates and is irritated in herself for being cowardly.
Sord though sensed something was the matter with Meiah and inquired about it. Meiah blushed for a moment and nervously said it was nothing. She reasoned that she is a bit worried as tomorrow would be the first assessment and Sord would face the first princess Alea. The location would be known only on the day it would take place, only the assessor can choose.
Meiah curses herself for botching up the opportunity to confess to him. And when she tried to muster up enough courage, Marithe came strolling in to deliver a message. Annoyed she instructed her to leave it in her office as she considers all correspondences unimportant matters especially when she’s dining. Marithe could sense the frustration of her voice and decided to leave them be for now.
They talk as they take their meal and Sord asked if it was really wise to ignore the message, she assured her that it’s not really important. As they continue their meal, it was again interrupted by the arrival of man dressed in Maroka’s military uniform. He carried himself in impressive demeanor befitting an officer, handsome well chiseled features brimming with confidence, sporting a winning smile.
Stopped and saluted the princess. Then turns his attention to Sord, I’m Knight Commander Janus, he introduced himself. Sord stood up and did the same. So this is the Arganian he’s been hearing about he remarked.
Meiah explained that he’s her adjutant and left him in charge of her troops when she left for Argania. She also admitted that he’s one of her suitors. Janus laughed it off saying he’d given up pursuing her as he thought she’s too serious with her duty as the commander of the south defense, besides everyone knows she’s really unapproachable and playfully said that one of the reasons she hurried over was to verify if the rumors were true that she’d brought back a man.
Her jest seemingly backfired on her, she wanted to see Sord’s reaction in facing a suitor. To her annoyance it seemed that the two spoke like they knew each other, she credit it to Sord’s friendly and disarming nature. Janus reported to Meiah all the goings on in her troops, she gave him a few orders and soon, Knight Commander took his leave.
Charming fellow remarked Sord, and continues that he remembers him back when they first met. Brave fellow that stood his ground, yes, the time Meiah first came face to face with the Harbinger. Sord looked at Meiah, a suitor eh? Nice fellow but he does not seem to be your fit, he chides her, Sord comments that he’s too…
Impudent? Meiah finished for him. Sord agrees and added Impudent and too fresh, hardly a Marokan behavior to his observation. They both burst into laughter.
Sere was secretly observing them that time as well and witnessing her younger sister laugh out loud like that was certainly unusual, no, unheard of she thinks. She, also notice a change in her behavior, she ignored some of her self-assigned tasks in her daily itinerary, finding herself drawn to the two, something interests her, piqued her curiosity and now determined to discover what affected her.
Sere is not anxious to meet the Arganian the next day, she’s the first to face him, She hopes he’d be interesting at the least but will not be so benevolent if she finds what he offers to the Dominion lacking, he’ll definitely suffer. He could make for an interesting specimen at least. Yes the thought, there is no loss here, so thought Sere who quietly melted in the shadows.
Sord asked if Meiah had fully showed him around to her best of her abilities and confirmed yes. She explained that there was still a large part of the Onyx Palace he still have not seen that only her mother can show him like the treasury vault, the Secret armory, the grand memorial vault and lastly, her living quarters. Some dread and hesitation were apparent when saying the latter.
Sord asked about the Grand Memorial vault as the name piqued his interest. Meiah seemed relieved that Sord asked about it instead of the Queen’s living quarters. She was more than happy to answer him.
She described it as a more secure vault containing the valuable relics of their country, priceless artifacts of their history and various magical items, historical records, a mighty vault of the dominions secrets. Meiah stated that it’s good to know but ultimately inconsequential to their mission for him to know the inside as even herself had seen it only once.
It’s more likely that the Queen tours him into the Treasury than the Memorial vault. Sord said that she’s right but it may be a safe temporary refuge for her if things don’t go according to plan. He pushed the notion aside and shifted to the more pressing, his meeting with Sere, the Second Princess scheduled the next day. She went through with him what he needed to remember about her sister and thought that she may be the easiest as she thought her less aggressively pursuing the throne.
Sord wondered what kind of person Sere really was as she does sound more like his mother or younger brother, both preoccupied with their own studies and duties. Sord thought he knows all too well what drives them and perhaps, Meiah was right that she may the least threat to their plans. He mentally prepares for the meeting.
Meiah led Sord to her own quarters within the palace flowed closely by Marithe, he was astonished of the opulence of the apartment. The bed was so luxurious was wide enough to sleep a family in its ample soft mattresses and down pillows. Exquisitely carved black marble accentuated by fine mahogany like wood work equally detailed furniture. All the things were gilded with the finest gold.
Handmaidens tirelessly work to maintain the Princess’ chambers making it pristine at all times. Meiah seemed how impressed Sord was and began wandering within her room. Playfully, she asked if he ever been in a girls room.
Sord replied that aside from his sister’s rooms at Swamburgh, he admitted that this was his first time. Meiah laughed at the notion. It surprises Marithe, in her years with the princess, rarely she see her smile nor laughed out loud, especially in the presence of a man, though in her eyes, Sord was merely a boy barely out of his teens, still, the closeness Meiah exhibits with him is uncommon, Her view of Meiah as a very serious leader that shuns unneeded emotions much less the need for male companionship was counter to what she seed then.
Also she noted some physical changes with Meiah as well, she had become more athletic in her movement, she physique also improved, her muscles became more tone, and body became more slender and more buxom. She also exuded more confidence that ever before, adding to her charisma and looked commanding presence. Marithe suspected that the boy has something to do with it.
Marithe being out of action during the time Meiah and Sord had sheared secrets and formulated their plan, and she was sent back only after a few days much to her protests hence she did not witness the training She underwent and the numerous battles Meiah had within Molokkai, so it was understandable that she oblivious of the reasons of her change.
She stayed by Meiah’s side as she spent time with Sord, Marithe can sense Meiah’s annoyance at her presence, Marithe understands her and her reasons but due to the order of the queen, she must keep an eye on the two.
She knows, feels Meiah’s attraction to Sord, why not? He’s charming, honest and seemingly and blissfully dense, naïve to a fault that, Marithe fears only two things, it will hurt the princess’ feelings if he’s not in line with her or, if Sord was feigning it and was all an act to manipulate the princess. For now, she was to just watch them and see.
Being done for the day, Meiah asked for food to be brought in later and asked Sord to stay there till then, they spent the day in casual banter till the days close. After dinner Marithe escorted Sord to his assigned bedchambers and once sure he’s inside, went ahead to report back to her queen and report to her about the day’s activities and observation.
She enters the queen’s impressively vast apartment, pass the foyer in to her boudoir, her private dressing room. The Dark Queen dismissed her ladies in waiting and heard Marithe’s report. Nodding from time to time and asked few questions. Lilly thanked Marithe and dismissed her. Not wanting others to see her expression, Lilly let a small smile across her ample lips, and with a sigh internally struggles with her own tumultuous emotions.
She busts out laughing in the end, amused at he own uncertainty. She stared at herself in the mirror seemingly speaking to herself. What will you do now Lillinthia?
Thinking back at Marithe’s report, she thought what a delightful boy Sord was, to be able to tame Meiah, her brash little daughter whom she thought was a complete man hater. She pitted the most capable and eligible suitors but were all rejected by Meiah, now she’s singing a different tune? How curious she thought.
Well she guess that it would not be farfetched, that boy does have some, unexplained pleasant qualities, ones though not sinister but a quite appealing temperament she can’t quite put her finger at. A kind of “je ne sais quoi”. As reflecting on her unintended encounter with Sord the other night, she was quite drawn to him. She has yet to decide if he was dangerous for them or not, all her mind tells her yes but an inner part of her assures her that the he means no harm.
She decided that upon their next meeting she would be sure to cast her decision to hang or embrace him into her Domain. The thought embrace also left her with a sense of conflicting emotions while her cheeks flushed a bit when entertaining the notion of physically taking the young man into her arms, then also the guilt of betrayal of the memory her lost beloved vowing never to take another consort nor desire another man again.
Then considers the feeling of her daughter as she have most likely have feeling for the Arganian as well based on her behavior and she did not want to add anymore animosities between her and her daughter. None the less, she eagerly awaits their next encounter and mused that either way she was sure that something interesting was brewing in her Kingdom.

Chapter 10: A Meeting of Minds
The day of the meeting with Princess Serevinne came, Meiah waits anxiously with Sord for the summons to be delivered. She nervously reminds Sord of the details he needed to remember, Sord reassures her there was nothing to worry about as Meiah seemed more on edge than him. Meiah tries to calm herself down and thought to herself that Sere would probably be more interested in her research and hope to dismiss Sord sooner.
On the contrary, Sere herself had been anticipating the meeting with the Arganian and that thought was with her since last night. Sere sits in her private library seeming to be reading but in reality she’s lost in thought. The image of her sister’s strange demeanor stuck with her and been thinking what kind of a person Sord really was.
The summons came before midday, together with some of Sere’s ladies-in-waiting to escort the Arganian to their mistress. It was something that Sord have not experienced before and doubt that Argania had something similar, the invitation was formal and protocol was to be adhered to for a simple meeting of persons. But he does appreciate their unique take on things, order and organization seemed to be the hallmark of the Marokans.
The procession to Sere’s chosen location, was quite unusual to him the maids made sure to guide him without walking in front of him, keeping their distance a little behind him and five maids lined up on each his side. When they reached the Sere’s library, two maids opened the double doors and bowed, hinting for the guest to get in.
Soon as Sord entered the doors were shut and seemed that the handmaidens left. Sord found the library a little less ornate than the rooms he’s been, floor were very polished but the walls were a little bare, lacking in any decorations. The black marble walls seem hard to illuminate, even when lit by Daytraes, to the common eye, still looked quite dim. Rows of plain but tall wooden shelves, line the walls of the vast room, movable sliding ladders we installed to access the top shelf item.
He’s astounded to see that one person has exclusive access to such a collection of books, Sord have visited a few libraries before but none so extensive here with such broad variety of subject. With wide eyed awe he can’t help but verbally praise such wonderful collection. I’m glad that you like my meager collection Master Smith, Sere commented to Sord when she caught his remark.
Sord intended to do the standard salute but Sere turned around and asked him to follow her which he did. She led him to her study where a big desk sat in the middle, laden with a few books and tomes and some scattered notes. Sere still held on to one of her book, it did not look like her spell book. She sat down and asked him to take a seat as well. Sord awkwardly sat but then stood up again and said that he should be doing the salute as a sign of respect to the powers as Meiah told him to do.
Sere almost burst into laughter but tried her best to hide it, and told him there was no need as this was a private liaison and she prefer them to be informal so that he will be comfortable. Sord thought if that was allowed as he sat, an awkward silence washed between them. Sord was waiting for Sere to start asking question, interrogate him and he starts feeling a bit uncomfortable for a moment. Sere looked at him, studying his form, his demeanor, his face, body language and clothing.
She did notice his comely innocent face, but she well knows the looks can be deceiving. She noted his seemingly innocent gestures, mannerism and speech. His clothes were foreign to her, wearing a simple tunic and breaches accentuated by a wide leather belt, almost a girdle and shod in boots which were all unornamented. It was still acceptable, presentable aside from his shock of long black hair that fell past his waist. While Sporting long hair is not uncommon in the Dominion, most are tied with ribbons and usually not grown to the extent as the Arganian before her.
Sensing the awkward moment that seemed to be making the guest uncomfortable, which she intended to do in the first place, an attempt to play mind games with the Arganian. She did took great pleasure making him wait and gleefully watched his reaction. Sord still kept quiet as Sere looks him over, he puffs his cheeks letting out air from his lips as if whistling but no sound comes out. His little gestures, eyes looking about and nose scratching were all captured by her.
She decided that he did looked more bored that nervous. She decided to break the ice.
So Master Smith I heard that you brought us something for trade? I am curious what it could be that they claim, that will give us advantages, more so than our current level of superiority.
Instead of answering directly, Sord pointed to the book she’s holding. “Peoples of Norewald” He commented, saying that his brother owns a copy. Usually, Marokans would find it rude to shift topic away from the conversation. Taken by surprise, Sere asked if it was the same one, written by Magus Aurelio. He answered yes the same one, and said that his little brother owns a few rare books and even written some unpublished books himself.
Sere got curios as Sord seemed young and the prospect of his brother authoring a book seemed unlikely. Sord confirms is about four years younger than him and would be about sixteen years old but very intelligent and is now doing research on his own.
She asked which fields does his brother was studying. He said that his brother wrote about comparative study if chemistry and alchemy and is now doing what he described as “Physics” stating it was the study of matter and the foundation of all things in the world that includes energy and force.
Those studies were not common and seldom touched upon but Sere had indeed know of the study. But she did not say anything further. Sord did comment of one of a unique theories that was hardly known in the realms, one that his brother tried to explain to Sord. The Concept of gravity. She was highly intrigued as Sord told her what he knows for far about the subject, Sere can’t help but take notes.
Then Sere told him that she was initially was going to ask if he have anything interesting he could share aside from his offerings of trade but admits that what he told her was gold for her as it would confirm some of her own theories and research, especially the concept of gravity and excitedly stood up and walked over to a large chalk board and explains that the force that keeps them on the ground must be some kind of unseen magical energy that gives weight to all things.
But could not explain the origins of the energy as she used every magical appliance of detecting magic and spent countless hours calibrating those to no avail. Sord expressed that he’s no expert on the subject but do remember that Zhed, his brother telling him his theories that gravity was not a form of magic but a force created by large objects. Further explaining that as an object grows larger, or attains more “mass”, the object creates distortion in time and space causing things to be attracted to it, in effect if the object is as large as a world, then all things close to it will be attracted towards it.
Sord took the chalk and drew a model of how gravity works as shown to him by Zhed, where the object with mass was represented by a sphere and drew a grid pattern that was distorted from below by the sphere.
The notion was completely unbelievable to her but if true, would explain some missing details. She was immensely intrigued with this Zhed, considering how young he is, he’s most likely a genius. She asked Sord what else he knows about his brother’s theories.
Sord mentioned that Zhed believed that light is a particle and explained to her the concept of molecules. In Norewald, the concept of states of matter are known except for the concept of light being a particle and not just energy. That there was a fifth state of matter called Plasma.
Most revolutionary of all was when he told her was that matter cannot be created nor destroyed, only transformed. She found it hard to believe as a practitioner of magic, that theory cannot be true. With that her interest grew less but is still rather intrigued by the young man, as he seemed to be brighter than the average person she knows. Still there are intangibles that she needs to know about him.
You gave me such interesting things to think about Master Smith, and I am inclined to send you on your next meeting but let me ask one more thing from you, and I mean you personally. Sord said he’ll do his best and asked what was that she want of him. I noticed that you and my little sister are quite close and perhaps you had showed her some, interesting things. I promise to pass you to your next interview if you could show me something interesting, something that you have never shown even to Meiah.
Sord thought for a while and answered, okay but asked her if she could perhaps keep it a secret between them. She thought of him to be too presumptuous to ask a princess for a favor but humors him none the less. Out of thin air, a smoky, inky black portal opened up and Sord took out some items out of it. He explains that he can store things here and still do not know the capacity but he knows that so far, he’s had mountains of cursed treasure hidden in it as well as all their needed supplies, so far only she and one other knows this.
She was taken aback, this was the first time she saw a phenomenon or skill like that. Some magic items have that quality like the bag of holding where a small item can contain large amount of space disproportional to its size. This one was different somehow. A pocket dimension. Sere was excited, asked him of the things he tried to do with it. Asked him if he would be willing to experiment with her, Exclaiming the immense potential of this ability.
Sord told her that he feels he should be cautious with dealing with it was she still does not understand the properties of that but someday if he would stay in Maroka, perhaps he’ll be willing to do research with her to better understand this strange and unique phenomena. For now, Sord reminded her that he did what she asked. Unable to let the prospect of him leaving Maroka, she assures him he can progress to the next stage.
She could not control her eagerness and unintentionally showed it to Sord, but he feels unsure if it was wise to let her know of the power he demonstrated as he remembers that experiments his mother Xerranna had done with him leaving him unnerved. But it was for a good cause, for now he passes and feels that somehow, the second princess had taken interest in him or his abilities at least.
Sord complements Sere on her great intellect and hat in itself, gives her a unique charm all on her own. She was truly flattered and explained that she does not have many suitors as her sisters and credits it to her bookish nature and plain looks. Sord calls it nonsense as he honestly thinks she’s beautiful as she already is, perhaps on par with her sister as they do look a bit similar but with each their own charms.
Why Master Smith, I didn’t know that flattery is one of your gifts, she playfully said. She cannot deny that he has a charm all his own as well and she thinks she likes him as a person perhaps. She also suspects that she’s only scratching the surface, he’s not telling her everything, but for now, she will let him progress.
Sord blushed slightly at Sere's playful remark but smiled warmly, appreciating her response. "Ah, Princess, I speak only the truth," he replied sincerely. "Your intellect, knowledge, and passion for learning are what make you stand out, and your beauty goes beyond just physical appearance. It shines through your thoughts and actions."
Sere couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort and ease in Sord's presence. There was something genuine and endearing about him that she found appealing. She admired his straightforwardness and honesty, finding it refreshing compared to the usual political games played by suitors at the court.
"You have a charm of your own, Master Smith," she said, a soft smile gracing her lips. "I find it quite intriguing, to be honest. There's more to you than meets the eye, isn't there?"
Sord chuckled lightly, acknowledging that he was indeed hiding some aspects of himself and his abilities. "Perhaps, Princess, but I assure you, I mean no harm. My intentions here are genuine, and I hope to forge positive relations between us."
Sere nodded, appreciating his honesty. "I believe you, Sord," she said. "And I'm willing to see where this leads. There's something about you that piques my curiosity, and I find myself drawn to unraveling the mystery."
As the conversation continued, they delved into more topics, exchanging ideas, theories, and even humorous anecdotes. Sere was surprised at how comfortable she felt discussing various subjects with Sord, as if they were old friends catching up after a long time apart.
Time passed quickly, and soon it was time for Sord to proceed to the next stage of his assessments. Sere walked him to the door and thanked him for the stimulating conversation.
"Thank you, Master Smith, for sharing your knowledge and your intriguing abilities with me," she said warmly. "I look forward to our next encounter, and perhaps we can explore more of those hidden talents you possess."
Sord smiled gratefully, feeling a growing connection with the second princess. "It would be my pleasure, Princess Serevinne. I eagerly await our next meeting, and I hope we can continue to learn from each other."
With a final bow and polite farewells, Sord left the library, leaving Sere deep in thought about the unique Arganian and the possibilities that lay ahead. They were both intrigued by each other, and little did they know that their encounter would set in motion events that would shape the future of their two nations.

Chapter 11: Parallels
Deep within the Elf haven of Verdia, the council of elders, known as the Enokad, gathered with an air of urgency. Restlessness had taken hold of the usually tranquil Elves. They were troubled by the loss of contact with their operative, the Yohar, who had ventured deep into the dangerous Badlands to track the so-called Harbinger. The use of the Veldtstone, a powerful tool of clairvoyance, had failed to provide any information, leaving them effectively blind.
The Enokad had miscalculated the situation, underestimating the power and cunning of the false Harbinger. The Yohar, their operative, had been bested and eliminated, breaking their clairvoyant connection. They feared that the Harbinger might now set his sights on Verdia, and they were unsure if he had obtained any information about the Yohar during their contact.
Fearing the consequences of antagonizing the Harbinger and the potential Convergence of the "Singularity" and the "Pinion," the Enokad decided against sending another Yohar to Maroka. Instead, they dispatched mercenaries to Verdia's northern border, instructing them to gather a team at Ka’arak, where human spies were known to reside. These spies were already bribed, and the mercenaries were tasked with infiltrating Maroka to gather any information they could about the Harbinger.
During the council's discussions, one member raised the theory that the Convergence might indeed be happening, with the "Singularity" and the "Pinion" uniting, potentially leading to inaccurate calculations. The arrival of an alien matter four years ago added to this speculation. However, lacking substantial evidence, the theory was dismissed, but the council decided to keep it under consideration for future investigation.
In the Arganian borders, at the Sancti's hidden quarters in Fort Valiant, Adjudicator Mallor Dreszen was furious over the loss of his men during the operation involving Praetor Xerranna. Two Arbiters and two aspirants had been lost, and there was no information to show for it. Every time they dealt with anything connected to Xerranna, they suffered heavy losses.
Mallor Dreszen sent orders to his spy, Adonn Mercer, who resided in Maroka, to investigate and gather any information possible. He grew concerned that Adonn had become too complacent in the Dark Dominion, affecting his efficiency and displaying arrogance. Dreszen cursed his luck as even his connections with the Imperial Arcane Ministry had suddenly gone silent, leaving him feeling vulnerable and isolated.
Rumors circulated that the Emperor might disband the Sancti, relegating them to obscurity, their purpose and existence fading into secrecy. The council of mages was becoming disillusioned with their lack of progress in their primary mission to discover and eliminate all outer-planers. Without solid evidence, they were viewed as a group of delusional individuals who believed in angels and demons.
The Adjudicator knew they had to produce evidence soon, or their worst fears of being dissolved would come to pass. The Sancti needed to regain their footing and find tangible proof of their mission's importance before it was too late. The clock was ticking, and their future hung in the balance.

Chapter 12: Shadows of Deceit
Elated with the success of their meeting, the only drawback now is that it was obvious, the Second Princess had took notice of the Arganian with great interest. Sere had even approached Meiah and Sord casually and started socializing with them, to Meiah’s surprise and annoyance, Sere would often engage the Arganian and ask him questions about his personal details.
The meeting with the first princess was delayed as she claims that they had important duties needing attention. For the meantime, Meiah decided to tour Sord in the city, knowing that Sere would much rather be with her books than go outside her library. As not to draw attention, Meiah and Sord had dressed as ordinary citizens to blend in.
As they wander about the great capital, shadowy figures lurks about, following them, studying their every move. It seems that unseen individuals were keeping an eye on them as they make way to the city’s central plaza. A great commotion was happening at the center of it after the criers announced the latest news and posted it on the board.
Sord and Meiah made their way through the crowd to see that the clamor was all about, sharp gasps and low murmurings flooded the crowd. Meiah was shocked at the news, describing the gruesome fate that befallen a couple of families, all beastmen and Demi-humans. Sord sensed that this was not common news judging from the reaction of the citizens and their remarks.
“What monsters would do this?” One gentleman exclaimed. While another voice shouted in response: “would we really need to pretend we do not know?” Other voices tried to silence them reminding them of the consequences of unfounded accusations. Sord and Meiah knew exactly who the crowd meant.
It had been months since the rumors suddenly started, a careless remark from the First Princess became virulent and spread amongst the Marokans. An opportunity not wasted by the conspirators when they heard that princess Alea was not fond of the non-human citizens of Maroka.
Bodies turned up randomly, all victims were violently killed by a large weapon. All of them non-humans. So the rumors began that the Princess was exacting her reprisals to an imagined transgression. People came to the conclusion that she may be the one behind the attacks. Then this new victims were something never seen. Entire families murdered.
Meiah’s hands balled into a fists, her entire body was shaking in her anger, frustration and sadness. Sord put his hand on her shoulder and leaned to whisper to her. He asked her to calm down and think. He said that they must not be hasty as something feels off about the whole situation. They must find out more about it he said. Meiah was convinced that Alea may actually be the culprit, as she received reports that she was the one who sent assassins after her and is not above killing innocents to further her cause.
Sord points out that though it was possible, they cannot be, beyond the shadow of a doubt, certain. Sord thinks there is too many irregularities. He asked Meiah where she got the information about the employer of those assassins. Meiah opened that her old nanny had written her about it, her letter claimed that she overheard her sisters plotting against her then after a fortnight, the nanny died under mysterious circumstances.
Sord thought about it for a bit and told Meiah that, the demise too was incredibly convenient. He advised her that if she did not witness it, consider the information as hearsay. They cut short their wanderings and decided to return to the palace. Sord said that he will determine if the rumors are true once he is able to face Alea. Meiah calmed down a bit seeing Sord’s reasoning making sense to her.
Sord cautions Meiah, he felt that they were being watched. He was not wrong. There are two people that are actually following them. One was princess Alea, she kept her distance but her presence was hardly covert, she did not try to hide herself, she was noticed early by Sord.
The other was more masterful in hiding her presence, it was doubtful that Alea noticed the second person. The shadowy figure blends in the crowd perfectly and can move without being suspicious, the figure’s steps were rapid but quiet. It can be seen dodging behind stacks of crates in the busy marketplace, passing other people that never took notice of the ambiguous person. It was Narach herself. Going ahead of Sord and Meiah setting up obstacles attempting to herd them into the streets she needs them to be.
As Sord and Meiah made their way through the busy crowded central Plaza, they pass the market south ward to the palace. There are roads and alleyways they can take to get to the Onyx Palace. Sometimes they’d be blocked by heavily laden merchants with armful of products, then there are stacked crates that falls in front of them forcing them to detour and duck into a different alley.
Sord and Meiah found themselves in a tight alley with a steep incline up. The alley is barely wide enough for them to stand side by side. It was surprisingly clear of the usual obstacles found in most back alleys that’s usually cluttered by goods and other things. Sord had a bad feeling about it as something definitely feels off. He feels a slight rumble getting stronger and stronger.
A runaway cart barrels down the steep and narrow back alley, it is heavily laden with cut stone slabs. It had gained momentum that it sped down at great speeds, threatening to run down Sord and Meiah. Its thunderous rumble becomes deafening, Meiah was taken by surprise. It’s too late to cast a spell nor turn around and run the opposite direction. Being of low construction, there is no space to slide under, if she did she will be scraped and grated to a pulp under its massive weight.
There is no place to stand aside as the cart is a near fit, almost as wide as the alley itself. Tons of stones barrels down toward them, Meiah’s mind raced for solution, a course of action. Sord behind her shouted for her to jump over it, it should be easy, remembering their time training acrobatics together in the badlands for exercise, Meiah ran towards the unstoppable battering ram-like object hurtling towards her to gain speed and forward momentum.
Perfectly timing her step, she leapt up, her legs as powerful springs propelled her forward and in a parabolic trajectory, the height of the barreling object was taller than her by more than half, she barely clears it’s top, her hand brushed the leading edge, prompting her to do a front flip, then tucked her arms and legs in hoping she’d clear the rest which she did as it was now moving at speed.
Gracefully landing unharmed but was unnerved of what had happed. Fully expecting for Sord to land next to her or behind her but instead heard a loud crash behind her. She spun around and to horror she sees the cart hit something, most likely Sord, she expected the worst. She was just in time to see the impact of the cart, heavy stones shifted forward, some were ejected as not all were strapped in.
In her perspective, the moment was in slow motion, a loud bang then a cloud of dust in the moment if impact, she can tell that the sudden stop was violent, the real end of the stone laden cart rose up showing it’s axle. However it didn’t stop as it was greatly slowed down but seemed momentum kept it grinding a further way down the alley, it rocked from side to side striking the walls of the establishments of the alley, luckily no one was around that time or it would have been a grotesque affair.
Sord! Meiah shouted as she ran down towards the now halted cargo cart, she unconsciously bounded over the wreck fully expecting see a gruesome sight, she steeled herself, unable to think of anything else hoping that at least Sord was still alive. Inhaling the dust she found it choking and coughed, she covered her mouth to prevent more of the fine powder entering her lungs. She tried to wave off the dust, tears wells in her eyes.
Soon a number of citizen came onto the scene to see what the commotion was about and soon the mouth of the alley were filling up with people. Windows opened as curious onlookers tried to make out what the commotion was all about.
Are you alright milady? A familiar voice rang out, as well as a familiar figure emerges from the cloud of dust and debris, Sord, now half covered in the fine dust powder was shaking off the stuff, looked around and remarked that they should get out of there as they were still in danger. Meiah immediately leapt up to him giving him a tight hug.
Unrespecting the show of affection, he blushed slightly and did the same, however he gently pulled off and took her hand then slipped into the crowd. The entire commotion was witnessed by Alea herself. Alea didn’t move from her spot as Sord and Meiah passed her but her gazed followed them. She was done spying on them for now, but the events she witness now caught her interest.
Princess Alea saw the whole incident, she was following them as they rounded the narrow back alley. It was a bit of an incline up when she noticed a fully laden cart zoomed down on the pair, she really thought that it was their end as she could not do anything from where she was at, she saw Meiah gracefully jumped over the cart but the next thing to happen left an impression on her.
This was no ordinary blacksmith and this confirms the report her spies provided her about the Arganian. The scene was burned in to her memory, Sord was about to be hit by the runaway wagon, he extended both arms forward to catch the thing. The impact was so great that it sounded like an explosion, dust and debris from the cart obscured part of the scene but she saw Sord still leaning forward on the cart had impossibly stopped it, his feet almost carved up the street as it left skid marks. Some of the shattered stones were inadvertently dumped on the diminutive Arganian.
Moments later she saw Meiah emerge from the dust at the same time as Sord emerged from the seemingly crushing pile of stones and stone slabs. Is he even human? She asked herself. Alea concluded that the Arganian’s action saved a lot of people as the alley was directly leading to the central plaza and market where countless people were doing their business.
How interesting she thought. A mountain to overcome as she inwardly laughed she cannot gauge the full strength of the boy but judging from what she saw, she estimated that he’s as least as strong as she was and possibly more durable, she did not want to admit it but she did not see herself emerging unscathed from that ordeal if that were to happen to her. Now she can see why her sister took keen interest on the boy in their initial meeting.
Rarely does her sister Sere takes any notice on anyone, now she’s convinced there is something this so called Mastersmith. She now relishes her meeting with the young Arganian.
Meanwhile, a figure cloaked in invisibility watched as her handiwork was thwarted. She knew the boy was dangerous now she knows her work was really cut out for her. She may have to resort to direct confrontation, a prospect she wanted to avoid as there are too many unknowns at this point, the nefarious interest in the demise of Meiah by Adonn, the unprecedented but lucrative job of attacking the Imperial family and now this strange boy from an enemy empire.
Yes something wasn’t right, money flowed too freely and now her confidence were put into question, she should never have let that damnable Adonn to bait her with her pride. She thought of just killing Adonn now as he’s putting her in a bad situation. She knew that risk was always a part of the profession but risks they took was so far those that they can manage, even bad odds are winnable, but in this case she’s considering defaulting, she’d take a hit in her pocket but more importantly, her reputation.
She weighs her options, and for now, must prepare for her next move, she withdraws from the seen, and supremely confident of her cloak of invisibility, which she slips away unnoticed.
Sord however, with his keen senses and intuition sensed a presence that were watching them. She even caught a glimpse of the shadowy assassin. He committed her image to his memory, for the time being, he must take Meiah to the safety of the Onyx palace walls.
Sense of growing urgency grips at them, Sord and Meiah are now being pursued by unknown assailants soon as they headed for the Imperial Palace. More assassins came after them. It’s not common for one to be waylaid in broad daylight. The assailants clearly was aiming for the princess.
Beads of sweat rolls down on Sord’s cheeks as he tried his best to defend Meiah, he swats arrows and poisoned bolts coming at her in multiple directions. Two more choose close combat as they silently charged at Meiah with daggers drawn. In a melee, Sord wasn’t too concerned as he knows they were no matched for the princess, it’s the random projectiles and missiles that concerns him, he cannot afford to let Meiah get injured as they are still a way off the palace, he does not have any method to heal her if she gets hurt.
Sord considered using his sword but is well aware that he may kill them if he does use it. Meiah dispatches her attackers and may have killed them, however they can’t verify it, as soon as they fell, more cones out of cover and takes their comrades away including their weapons. Meiah wanted to pursue but since they are not engaging her Sord asked her to stay near him. Fearing that they were just baiting her to rush off.
His senses working overtime and his head was in a swivel as they say, he saw more missiles coming in, with his superior reflexes, though confident in his abilities, he does not let his guard down, fearing that a missed projectile can hurt Meiah badly.
Sord was able to intercept all incoming fire and notices a lull, it maybe that the assailants had finally run out of ammunition or realized the futility of ranged attacks, nevertheless, Sord still feels their presence. He took the opportunity and told Meiah to run for it.
They dashed forward, Meiah wasn’t particularly exhausted physically but her emotions were running amok, her heart was pounding so hard that she so desperately need a good break as they been pursued and assaulted for a good half hour or so but for her it felt it was happening all day. The incoming arrows did not disappear though but just bacme more sporadic. Sord noted the accuracy of their shots and knows they’re aimed to kill the princess.
Sord was sure that Meiah was thinking that her sisters were behind this in their desperation to stop her, but Sord still feels there was something wrong and this is probably intended to reinforce her belief. Sord would have to keep an eye more closely on Meiah till the matter was settled.
Sord knows he was getting in over his head when he got embroiled in the political battle of ascension within Maroka, navigating that landmine is one thing, now it feels something more sinister is going on. Sord always banked on the concept of family, that no matter what happens, the term blood is thicker than water usually runs true. This may be the case with the Imperial family and feels that he should at least determine if they are indeed involved in the attempts.
At last they reach that main street leading to the palace that exit the shaded alleyways to a much crowded portion of the avenue. Sord let Meiah take the lead as they slowdown to a casual walking pace, Sord walks behind her to shield her in case of another attack. Luckily, it ceased the moment they step into the afternoon sun.
Sord looking back without turning, using the reflections on shop windows to see if any followed. Sord knows that at least one of the shooters were a very expert archer, that particular assailant were able to bounce arrows off the walls to try to hit Meiah, without Sord, she would certainly have been shot. Sord noticed a lot of advance archery techniques used by the shooter, for one, a shot through a water spout and the arrow ricocheted a number of times ultimately headed for the princess. That too was intercepted by Sord as he grabs it midflight headed towards Meiah’s side.
Sord pondered if it was the right choice not to pursue them, then and there, as he’s sure, by that time, the unknown assailants have taken notice of him. He decides to confer with Meiah about it first chance he gets, though Sord does not shy away from blood, it’s just that he intently avoid killing people if he can help it. He was surprised though, that this time, the thought crossed his mind of ending them all at once came so easily when he was thinking of their effort to harm Meiah. Something that is very unacceptable to him, he realized.
As soon the pair entered the Palace grounds, they were able to breathe a sigh of relief. Sord commented that he would not mind not going through that again. They both bursts into laughter.
Before Sord could say another word Meiah clapped her hands and an entourage of ladies in waiting, came streaming forth, Meiah said they should clean up before supper and they were whisked away to their respective baths. Sord protests saying he can do it himself but was swept away by them.
A lavish feast was laid out in the grand gazebo, the mouthwatering aroma of fine meats that were expertly cooked by the realm’s finest chefs, permeated the air, the food were stunningly presented and are beautifully arranged and decorated, it enhanced the foods appeal and induces appetite with the myriads of variety dishes served.
Meiah, feeling refreshed had grown an appetite after their ordeal. A handmaiden came in and handed her the Summons from Alea and whispered something, she smiled a bit and dismissed her, and there were some “resistance” when catering to Sord hence the delay.
She did not open the sealed summons, she wanted Sord to open it with her. She already knows what the conditions probably were.
In a short while Sord was ushered to the table, looking a bit flustered. Meiah playfully asked what the matter was. Sord quietly replied that it was nothing much initially but later admitted that he was a bit embarrassed as he was “scrubbed”. He expressed that he was not used to that kind of attention. Meiah laughed a little and told him that those were the things he would have to learn to put up with as it is the norm for the high nobility.
Sord was in awe with the days spread, he savored the aroma of the fine meal and could not wait to start, looking at the neatly arranged feast, a variety of meat dishes, fish and freshly cut vegetable salad and dessert was professionally plated and served. He was about to partake. Meiah called his attention.
She handed her the letter of summons from Alea’s office. Sord took it and broke the seal, Meiah stood up and moved over, overlooking his shoulder, placing her hand on it. They read the document. It basically read that, in a roundabout way as legal documents go in most kingdoms, Sord would be received by the First Princess headquarters in the north western sector of the city.
It wasn’t a citadel but a compound consisting of a collection of barracks and buildings, Alea made an office in a central manor. The headquarters is secure enough to host the princess without issue as it’s as secure as the Onyx Palace, less the protection of the Obsidian throne. Nevertheless, no one would think of attacking a military barracks full of the Dominion’s Elite soldiers.
Still Meiah expressed her concern as it was clear Alea didn’t want her to be anywhere near them when Sord meets the first princess. Sord assures her that he can handle it and advised her to remain in the palace grounds till he returns. It did sounds that Sord was issuing orders to a princess but she does not mind and is happy he was concerned for her.
Meiah returned to her seat and they talked over supper. After all of Sord’s assurances, she still seemed unsure of something. Sord was quick to pick up on the mood and asked what it that bothers her. Pausing for a while, she did not know what she was hesitating for, this was a good opportunity to come forth and express her true feeling for him. She was about to be honest and lay bare her feelings to him, fully prepared to accept that even if the feeling wasn’t mutual, she’d be happy if he will stay by her side. But can she truly accept it if he did not feel the same about her? No matter as she had to tell him now.
Before she could act, they were interrupted by the Second Princess Sere. She complimented the fine meal served to them and expressed if she could join them, complimenting the fine feast before her. Sord could not be so presumptuous to answer her and looked to Meiah, which he found with a sour expression on her face.
Meiah pleasantly extended the invitation to her sister. Please do join us dear sister, Meiah asked as Sord stood up to usher Sere to a seat across him and pushed in the seat under the second Princess, much to her delight thanking him in her usual quiet voice. Meiah was surprised that she even thanked a commoner, she thought what could have gone on between these two during their meet. She would have to extract the truth from Sord later, she thought.
It’s unusual for me to see you out in the garden dear sister what brings your grace here to us? Meiah inquired, which Sere responded nonchalantly. My dear baby sister, I just wanted to spend time with Master Sord here, he and I had somehow become close and I am extremely curios about him, and since you’re always with him, apparently spend time with you too.
Sord garnered a sharp look from Meiah, surprising her putting him on a spot. Well now, dear sister I am glad you and Sord are getting along quite well, she remarked with an extreme hint of annoyance, while locking her gaze at Sord, who was increasingly getting hotter under the collar so to speak.
Sord did not want to offend the Second princess for disproving her claim when she boldly declared her familiarity with him to Meiah. He nervously declared that he found Princess Sere to be pleasant to talk with, and her immense curiosity is a quality she wishes everyone had and that he’s not sure about Sere’s meaning of being close as they only interacted a few times in the palace as he expressed he won’t be so presumptuous as to claim being too familiar with an Imperial princess.
Sord was trying to diffuse the situation, especially when Meiah was staring daggers at him. He thought perhaps he should have told Meiah about his interaction with the Second Princess when Meiah was not around.
Sere stopped eating to respond to Sord’s statement. Why Master Sord, you wound me, I thought we have become good friends, you even told me that I was very pretty and I was happy because no one had told me that before, and besides, I am starting to enjoy your company, are you suggesting that I was mistaken?
Meiah caught on that Sere was probably just antagonizing her by using Sord, so she went back to her seat and eat. She realized that her jealousy was showing. She was unconsciously frowning. Sord responded: oh no not at all milady, he said flustering. I just did not want to presume to be familiar with your imperial highness.
Sere just put some tender meat into her mouth with a fork and as if lost in thought while elegantly chewing. She then declared. Then if that was that case please call me Sere. You are well familiar with Meiah I envied her then I hear you calling her casually by her nickname. She said while glancing at Meiah, who seemed to be in a sour mood.
I don’t understand what in the heavens would have attracted you Master Sord, to my perpetually sour mood sister. Perhaps if she was more cheerful, you would perhaps then enjoy her company more? Sord swallowed his food audibly due to his nervousness, thinking what he can do if the two sisters actually fought.
Meiah, calming herself down refused to be provoked by her sister, responded that if she must know, She had known him for a few months now and had bonded when they adventured together especially during their trip to Maroka. A statement to let Sere know, to remind her that she and Sord already had shared bonds.
Princess Sere asked why she was in a bad mood that day. Meiah could not just admit to her that she interrupted her chance to confess to Sord. So she dismissed the question saying what Sere was talking about. Though it was obvious she was in a foul mood.
To their surprise, Sere started to inquire about Sord’s next meeting. Sord handed Sere the summons and she read it. A furrow emerged on her brow halfway through reading it then let out a concerned sigh as she handed the letter back to Sord. She expressed that it was worrisome that Alea wanted the meet away from the palace as if she did not want the family to interfere to what’s about to happen.
Sere cautioned Sord that their older sister only acknowledges power, strength first and foremost. If she believed one is a capable fighter, she will not hesitate to challenge them in a duel. Sere dared to call Alea something to the effect of a muscle brain or a meathead. Meiah could not deny that and grudgingly agrees with Sere.
I don’t know how strong you are Master Sord but if you will be judged alone by your physique, she may quickly loose interest and instead coerce you to spill all that you know and your intentions, if you have any ulterior motives. Or from your comely face, she may seduce you in become her consort, you do have this fascinating charm that even I found irresistible, Sere said half-jokingly.
The serene surrounding frames a picturesque view of the beautiful garden under a clear blue sky, back dropping the massive Onyx Palace, the quiet scene was suddenly shattered. No she can’t! Meiah suddenly protested as she stood up, hitting the table with both her palms, rattling the silverware on the table, startling Sere and Sord. Sere didn’t know how passionately she objected at the thought that her sister would steal him away from her.
Sere interjected, well she can, as long as she can overpower him, she most definitely will. She said while sipping tea from the finest porcelain teacup. Meiah pointed a finger to Sord, he thought she’s going to accuse him of something and is preparing to apologize to whatever it was.
Meiah sharply declared, ordered him that he don’t dare lose to Alea if ever he was challenged by her, and that he should vehemently reject her if she asked him to be her consort. Somewhat relived but also confused Sord reassures Meiah that he will do his best. Meiah seemed satisfied.
Sere observed the behavior for the two and is certain that Meiah was exhibiting jealousy. She wanted to know who was holding whose chain. For the moment, she needs to watch them closer. Sere thanked them for the wonderful meal as she stood up, prompting Sord to get up and pull her seat away. She reminded Sord that he need not do that for her as they are friends.
Before Sere disappeared from sight into the halls of the Onyx Palace, she left them a cryptic message. She told them: “Beware, The Dark Queen” Meiah thought to herself. “Mother?” as Sere disappeared from the dimly lit halls. It was almost dusk. Sord and Meiah wondered about the meaning of those words.

Chapter 13: Oath of Glory
Thorin Whitehammer. A formidable figure in the Marokan Empire, descendent of the kings of Val’hesta, to the west of Negral. He was a hero that fought many battles in Maroka’s service. Considered to be a mountain of a man that towers over his contemporaries. His honest and brash personality further endeared him to his allies and subordinates and his hulking stature terrified his enemies.
In the battlefield he was an unstoppable juggernaut that mowed down his enemies like wheat for harvest. His achievements were the pride of the Dominion. He was the favorite of the nobility and heavily favors him as the suitor with the most potential to be the Consort of the Dark Queen Lillianthia.
Throin had no stomach for politics and values glory more that power. And if he married the Queen, he will not be able to do his long wish to be free to explore, to go to the far north beyond anyone had gone before, his goal was to discover what’s in the fabled Hyperborea. His daughters greatly admired him especially Alea. Thorin heavily lobbied for the expedition promising greater glory for the Dominion as if they succeed, they will be able to add it to the glory of Maroka as not only be known for possessing the biggest Adamantine and Mithril mines but the discovery of the fabled promised land.
With support from the nobility and ultimately, the Dark Queen, Thorin was finally allowed to take the expedition. He wanted to take Alea with him but due to her tender age, he had to leave her behind. The expedition had ended midway, the new ship to sail the northern seas was not seaworthy and all were lost to the denizens of the frozen deep. Rumors that it was sabotage that it was perpetrated by the malcontents, rebels from the non-human faction.
It was proven that the Gnomish artificer alliance had sold them unproven ship design. They were aptly punished and the rumors of a non-human rebellious group were unproven. However the notion of a rebellious group stuck with her to almost obsessive levels, as well as her admiration of her father and took upon herself to be as glorious as he was or be even greater.
She became a paladin that took the oath of glory and swore upon it, that one day she will find the fabled land and restore honor of her father and bestow the greatest glory to Maroka, her beloved land. She developed her skill not just as a warrior but also as a skilled leader and eloquent orator that could inspire her troops to victory no matter the odds they faced.
It served her well in her duties that gained her complete loyalty of her soldiers. Today is that say she faces a great challenge, the unfounded rumors are nothing compared to what she is to face that day, that day she will test the adage that says that there are always ones better than oneself.
Late at night, she went to her little shrine to do a vigil, asking the gods to provide her with strength to triumph over her opponent. Her troops seldom see her asking for divine boon as she was always, confident of her own prowess. There were only a few times they seen her doing a vigil.
She reflects on the scenes from the previous day, the power displayed before her, she longed to feel the exhilaration of fighting a worthy foe that can go toe-to-toe with her. His unassuming form, smooth skin and boyish handsome face cannot deceive her, he’s a monster inside, filled with unbridled power, yes, he exposed his power yesterday and she cannot forget about it.
She intended to finish and leave at the break of dawn but her reverie was so deep that she did not return to her office, it was stated by the summons that they will meet at noon in it. But when the adjutant brought Sord to the office she wasn’t there. The other officers told the adjutant that the princess was still in the shrine. Since there was no order to bring the Arganian in the shrine, and that no order disturb her, he advised Sord to wait till the princess arrived.
Sord asked if he can go to her then, the adjutant thought for a moment and said he can do it but to his own risk. Sord consented and advised that he’ll go see the princess in her shrine. The adjutant pointed to the direction and wished him luck.
As Sord made his way to the shrine, he can’t help but admire the discipline and dedication the Marokan troops had, the barracks was pristine and the grounds well kept. He passed soldiers marching in perfect sync as officers bark sharp orders. The administration buildings did not resemble the regular Arganian design, the Marokan buildings were more ornate and far from uniform.
Soon Sord reached the shrine, this building is truly unique, and it was just a small building made from grey marble, unlike the usual black marbles that consists most structures in the city. It’s like a miniature temple, especially when one sees the tall princess kneeling in front of its altar, almost like it was built for a child. He originally was going to interrupt Alea but seeing her in such a state, she was probably praying for help from her deity. She decided to wait for her outside till she’s done.
It took more than an hour before the doors opened and the princess emerged. She was surprised that his quarry had come to her. Sord apologized and ask her forgiveness for being so bold as to go to her place of worship.
How polite and charming this one is, indeed most would be fooled by his façade of innocence. She thought to herself. I apologize for being tardy on our first meeting Mastersmith, it is not becoming of a princess I’m sure. Sord shook his head and remarked that a princess such as her is never early nor never late as they are available in their own time.
Pretty smooth Mastersmith, some would not take that as a complement. But, I think I do. Alea replied. She beckons Sord to follow her which he did. As they walk to their destination, an unassuming building, they entered it and soon Sord found himself following the princess down a long narrow set of steps leading underground.
Strangely there were no soldiers posted and judging from the décor on the walls, it was some sort of military facility. They soon reach a vast arena-like underground vault. Alea explained that this used to be the old city’s reservoir, fed by long aqueducts from the great river to the east. Now it’s unused when the City modernized its water distribution system, this was now her own private arena.
Alea began to strip her clothing to change into her armor. Sord inquired what was that she thought she’s doing. She replied that she no longer cared what his real intentions were for being there nor weather it was true or not he’s been manipulating her sisters for whatever his goals were. But she promised her one thing, if he would pass her tests he will advance to the final meeting, he will be able to meet the Dark Queen.
But hints weather it would be good or bad for him to meet the queen, would not be her concern. Sord asked what then her demands of him was. Alea said that she considered putting him through the 12 labors like Hercules was tasked to do but now she only asked him to do the an impossible tasks and asked if he’s up to it.
Sord thought for a bit and agreed but with one demand he must make, that aside from progressing, if he passes, he must ask her a question and she must answer in all honesty or to the best of her knowledge. Alea promptly agrees and stated that if he fails, he is to forfeit his life to her and serve her without questions like a slave, but of course she promised that he will compensate him and might consider going along to whatever his ulterior motives were.
Sord expressed he had no problem with the proposition. Alea then stated he only need to do one thing, defeat her in a duel. Sord expected as much, perhaps she would be less condescending once she’s able to acknowledge him.
Aleas advised Sord that she should wear armor, or not as it’s up to him. Sord stated that he’s fine as he were, she asked then at least to choose his weapon and that h can use magic if he so wished. Sord walked up to the weapons rack and picked a wooden practice sword, he said to her that if she truly decided to fight him, he asked her not to hold back and fight as if her life depended on her else what they’re doing now is meaningless.
Alea was annoyed by this and replied. You look down on me perhaps, am I so unworthy that you would beat me with a stick like a street dog while you ask me to kill you in earnest? How arrogant, then let us see of YOU satisfy me.
Alea stands towering over Sord, it looks as if it were a battle of a child against a giant. She stands over a foot taller over him, she turns her back at him to give equal distance. Turning to Sord, Alea told him to be ready as she explode into action, her massive greatsword fast and accurate with ample power enough to shatter stone. However her swings only hit air.
She was surprised of his great speed and agility, digging through her vast fighting experience, she tried every attacks and feints but can’t land a hit, and she noticed that he’s not counter-attacking which adds to her frustration. She chides him if he’s just going to evade, if that’s the only thing he can do, then, as soon as she finished her sentence as she strikes, imbuing her mighty blade with divine power that smites her enemies.
She as sure that this will be able to damage him as she brought the blade of her sword over him, however, Sord had unbelievably caught her sword blade in between his middle and index fingers in his left hand. She tried to pull back the sword but it simply would not budge from Sord’s fingers as if it were caught between the jaws of a vise. She tugged at her weapon a few more times, to no avail.
Sord’s eyes narrowed and told her to fight like she means it, then Sord gives her a quick stab in the abdomen with the wooden sword, the blow was unexpectedly powerful, she was at close proximity with Sord. It sent her reeling back while her feet were still fully planted on the stone floor, the sheer force was enough, and to make her skidded backwards almost half way to the walls.
Sord shouted at her that she can do better than that. She began to laugh with a wide grin she casts spells that bolstered her, a holy light came down upon her and in effect it increased her powers, her speed, strength and durability were all augmented to their full potentials. Sord did not interrupt her, he could have but elected to have her unbridled.
You brought this on to your self Arganian, I will show you the despair the northern savages feared, there will be no mercy, you will die! Alea confidently shouted to Sord with contempt. Sord shook his head only muttering. Promises, promises.
In a blink of an eye, she disappeared from her spot. Catch this little boy! She shouted as she appeared in front of him bringing down the heavy blade however she did not hit him, the greatsword cleaved the stone floor where Sord was a moment ago. She had no time to evade as the wooden blade fully hit her side armor sending her crashing through some weapon racks, stopping at the back wall with a shudder.
She had no time to assess her damage, she promptly rush back to the fight, she were initially excited, full of confidence, now a wave of disbelief on the fact that she’s struggling to keep up with this boy, she knew he’s strong but this fight was beyond her imagination, she needs to use all she had. She cast a spell and stabs her sword on the ground before her, visualizing the holy power coursing through her body to her sword, the spell triggers a blinding flash of light, an explosion of lethal lightning all around her, surely the boy can’t shrug this off, she thought.
Sord shielded his eyes with his off-hand, and briefly felt that sudden discharge of electrical energy that exploded around them. Any creature within the area of effect would have surely been incapacitated or even killed with that blast. But Sord was unaffected by the attack however, thanks to his anti-magic.
Surprised that the spell wasn’t effective, she cast another one, failing to realize the futility of using magic against its antithesis. She imbues her weapon with divine flame to smite her opponent, a column of intense heat came down from above the chamber, fully expecting that at least, Sord would take damage.
Sord did not move from his ground and as soon as the flames touched him it dissipated in a cloud of inky black smoke to the disbelief of Alea, but she is not deterred, fear is nothing to her. She kept on fighting. She tried another spell to no avail.
Sord told her that magic is not effective against him. She was losing badly, the difference between their powers were impossibly vast. And to rub salt on the wound, Sord was just using a wooded weapon, a training sword. Sord knows that Alea would never give up to the point of her killing herself to try to defeat her enemies.
As the power that bolstered her ran out, she knelt down trying to catch her breath. She cast spells to heal herself but it was apparent that she’s exhausted. She expended most of her spells against the Arganian. On her honor, she would not stop until she’d won. She felt that she could still fight, she thought of how her opponent was fighting her and frantically trying to discern a weakness, a careless opening.
So far she have saw that Sord’s techniques were plain and mere basic forms of swordsmanship, she should’ve been able to counter the elementary moves with her more advanced skills honed by countless battles, but somehow he was able to dodge or parry her attacks, she could not comprehend the speed and precision Sord used to intercept her onslaught.
Sord approached her and he made a deal. He stated that this wasn’t going anywhere, he did not want to hurt her any further and stated that she can’t inflict any damage to him. He came up with a proposal for her, that he will permit her to land a punch, that if she managed to floor him in one hit, she wins. He said that he honestly thinks she cannot do it even with her full strength.
She accepts, she heals herself again and casts fortifying spells that boosted her stats greatly. Ready yourself boy! She declared. She gathered all her strength for the final blow that will ground this little Arganian to the floor. Don’t cry if you get a bloody nose Arganian, she declared.
With all her might she swung her fist with a wrathful shout, she aimed for his face, she focused all her remaining strength into her fist, it was a solid hit and powerful shock rocked the underground vault, dust were shaken from the vaulted roof and, Alea’s arm tingles and hurt a little bit as the impact reverberated from her arm to her entire body. While she did felt Sord’s head tilted back a bit, it did not seem to affect him much.
The sting came later, as an unbearable shock and pain prompted her to grab her fist with her other hand and cradle it on her chest. The intense pain slowly subsided and thought she broke her wrist, but still she failed to even shake the comparatively diminutive Arganian before her. Sord, overcome with concern, profusely apologized to her for taking things too far and asked her if she was alright.
She looked to him with a bewildered look, she asked him if he’s even human, while cradling her sore hand. Sord scratched his head a bit and replied that even he, wonders the same thing, as he assisted her to stand up. Dejectedly looked away from him and remarked.
So, I really had no chance against you Arganian. Alea bitterly asked Sord, it was a rhetorical question. He responded that it’s not that her chance were zero, he does not believed in absolutes, it’s just that the chances were very low. Sord tried to comfort her by saying that, it’s not that she lacked strength, he assures her that she as plenty of it and that she’s well versed in swordsmanship and spell craft.
How could I have lost to you then? She asked. Sord locked eyes with her that moment and answered, that it was simply that she have not surpassed him yet.
Upon hearing that she laughed out loud while putting her arm around his neck, pinning him to her side. It was in that moment that her troops streamed in to investigate the strange rumbling in the building. She promptly dismissed them, commandeing them to return to thier posts.
She led Sord back to her office and there she changed into more informal clothes, and offered Sord a drink, it was wine so he refused it saying that it and he does not really mix well, and disaster may ensue, well according his mother that is. She offered him tea instead which he gladly accepts. Alea was quiet but clearly her demeanor towards Sord obviously changed.
Sord hated the awkward silence and asked her if she willing to abide by her promise that she will answer his question. She only nodded in response as she sips her wine, the sweet fiery liquid’s taste pleasantly filled her mouth, slowly letting the rich flavor travel down.
Sord not the kind to beat around the bush, went directly to the point. Asked her if she was involved in the assassination attempts on Meiah.
She found the question a bit amusing, she told him, that she was not expecting to be asked that, she thought she would be asked why. Meaning that Sord strongly doubted that she had anything to do with the assassins. From the looks of it, most people of their kingdom believed her to be the perpetrator of the occurring atrocities.
She looked him in the eye and said that no, she did not order any assassinations. Sord again locked eyes with her, this time it was for quite a bit, gauging her response, as he gazed into her beautiful blue green eyes, Sord decided that he believes her. Sord also believes that she had nothing to do with the series of murders within the city, but what puzzled him was her lack of action or denial.
She said it was useless to do those as it would not matter what the people believed, she believes that, as soon as she takes the throne, she can make everything right again. Sord argues that her reputation cannot be easily be repaired when sullied even if the accusations were false. She asked him why he cares. Sord said that he just do. Besides, they’re connected to Meiah, she is family and explained that he believes blood is thicker than water.
Alea wondered out loud. You are a strange one Mastersmith, I think you know, that if you wanted, you can rule the world with your power, why concern yourself with other’s family or other’s honor.
Sord dismissed it telling her that she overestimated him, then asked if she will forward him to the next step. Alea replies that sine he bested her, naturally the victor can demand, so he can ask for anything he wanted of her. Sord told her that for now, he just wanted to fulfill his promise to Meiah and bring his creations to Maroka.
And? Alea added. She insinuates that there was more to his intensions. Sord assures her that if there were, it’s not malicious. Believe it or not Milady, I only have the best intensions, for Meiah and her family, so that includes you, I will clear your name and expose this evil that’s starting to creep its way into your kingdom.
These knaves have the audacity to attack your family, they should be brought to justice. I’ve seen your people, your home and I believe that there is an external power meddling with you all. They had your people turn against you using baseless accusations and the worst part is that they had your sister believe that you and Princess Serevinne are out to take Meiah’s life.
Alea thought for a while and said that even if that’s the case, she still didn’t care about those things. Sord asked her what she intended to do once she takes the throne. Without hesitation Alea told him that she will fulfill her father’s wish, to find the fabled land beyond Hyperborea Sord asked if she would abandon her country after taking the throne. She advised him that she intended to put Sere as her replacement eventually.
She expressed that she does intend to discover, if there is truth to the rumors that her father’s expedition was sabotaged and if true she will find the culprits and exact her vengeance, but she will never hurt innocents. Alea then asked what Sord wants her to do now that she expressed not to oppose his and Meiah’s efforts.
Sord then thought for a second and asked her if it were possible to deny the accusation formally in public as he may have a plan to thwart the nefarious plan of the conspirators.
The first princess does not know the details but she believes that there is a way, they will need to consult Sere as she’s the most familiar with those kind of things.
Sord divulged that they can use the power of the Obsidian Throne’s power called the zone of truth and disavow the actions of the criminals and deny her involvement, that way the people will know for sure that she is compelled to tell the truth.
She thought for a while and expressed that she still cared little about clearing her name, but if he truly wished it, she will endeavor to do so and go along with his plans. Sord seemed happy with the response. Of course the plan still involved the agreement of the Dark Queen, that much is one of the unknowns of his plan. He counts on his belief that blood is thicker than water and no parent would want that children to suffer.
Sord thanks Alea for agreeing to send him to the next step, asked if they were done for the day. Alea said that there is one more thing. She warned Sord that though she agrees to them proceed with the meeting, It does not mean that she had given up her claim to the throne, that being said, She assured him that Meiah will not take the throne, she does not believe that the so-called evidence of the Harbinger she had “manufactured” will be seriously considered, whatever it was, where ever fantasy realm she took it from, as she believe the Nemesis called the harbinger is just stories.
She told Sord that he should not put his faith in Meiah so much as she’s willing to sponsor him if he’s willing to join her instead. Alea asked him to train with her and teach her his skills. Alea promised riches beyond compare. Sord declined her offer.
That is quite an enticing offer only a fool would refuse, however you must forgive me Milady, a fool such as I, must decline your most gracious offer. He declared. Alea didn’t press for an explanation, she just gave Sord a smile.
I understand Mastersmith, I don’t know the reason for your refusal but I am rather perplexed, I can only make assumptions but perhaps you really look down on me, like a crow would be to an eagle? Not worthy of its attention not matter how hard the crow pecks at it?
Or perhaps that my insipid little sister offered herself unto you? Tell me Sord am I unpleasant to look at? My friends do tell me I am rather at par with my sisters in term of beauty and I am superior to them in physique! Alea said while she stood up presenting herself to Sord, turning gracefully to showcase her well-proportioned and buxom body. I’ll offer this to you as well on top of my previous offer, I’ll be your salve! What say you?
Sord cannot pretend to know Alea’s intention nor the seriousness of her offer but he thinks perhaps the princess before him was the kind that never takes no for an answer. Perhaps he should just humor her a bit, rather than just outright reject her offers. So he responded to her.
Like I said Milady, I am a fool as I may not understand the benefits of your offer, though I will consider it in earnest after I clear myself of the things on my plate, I may not look like it, but I am also a businessman, therefore must not jump into things without serious consideration, contracts are dangerous things if entered haphazardly. I will tell you this though Milady, your offer is the most lucrative that I have ascertained so far, so you can understand that businessmen are wary of deals that are too good to be true.
Alea laughed out loud. She found her whole situation rather hilarious, here she was the most feared in all of Maroka, about to be the new Dark Queen, but still cannot sway this little Arganian in battle or in words. She had never even imagined such a man exist, that a mere man would bring her down so casually and she is not even angry about it. She does find him charming, if they were to be seen in public as her consort, people would assume that she had coerced him, overpowered him to his compliance.
She’s amused that those people had no idea she’s the one overpowered by him, she could see that Sord is the one leading her sister, not the other way around. This made her want the Arganian even more. She leaned closer to Sord as he sits on the luxurious comfortable couch, almost kneeling as she was so much taller that the sitting Arganian. She locked eyes with him and brushed her hair aside as she further leaned closer.
She contemplated of planting a passionate kiss on his lips, she thought he would not object to it, but seeing his increasingly uncomfortable and awkward expression, giving a hint that he did not expected what she was about to do, she enjoyed the fact that Sord seemed to be squirming in his seat as she leaned closer as he blushed even more as his grip on the couches armrests grew tighter like a cornered kitten. She could smell his confusion, wasn’t he in control of the events earlier? Did he not show that he can control her fate, but now looking at him, she decided that the monster is a man after all.
At the last moment, she decided to cut the lad some slack, though he really wanted to at least taste his lips, in her mind she wonders if Meiah had actually done so. As she leaned in close she then whispered in his ears in a low, alluring voice.
You know Sord, we’ve all been educated in the art of seducing men, as a means to make them comply with our wishes, I can make you feel really good, what say you? I can teach you the ways of the body of a woman. Consider it separate from my offers. A test run if you will. She proposed as she pulled away from him, observing his reaction.
Sord awkwardly tried to decline but struggles for the words as he stutters a bit. Alea gently stood up as she laughed, then she returned to her own chair behind her desk. She pours herself another goblet of fine wine. She took a sip then turned back her attention to Sord.
I wasn’t joking Mastersmith, but I will respect your wishes, you may return to my sister and tell her that whatever you are plotting, I will not hinder. However, you refused me again, though I take a liking to you, know that I am such a petty and spiteful woman, to pay you back for not letting have what I want you will go back on your own, walk back to the palace and reflect what you have done to me. She playfully declared to Sord.
Sord not wanting to antagonize her again, apologized and took his leave. Alea followed him with her gaze as he left her along to reflect upon the events that happened to her. As the door shuts she is left with a sense of confusion and a myriad of emotions. What is the man, she asked herself. She’s going to need answers and could only think about just the most intelligent person in the Dominion she knows, her Sister Sere. She once more, needed her council.
Sord at first thought she was joking, sending him back walking. But it was the case since no one was attending to him like when he was fetched at the palace. He realized that he really was waking back. It was almost night fall when he finally got back from the palace, her curses his bad sense of direction. In the wild he can easily navigate the world, but in cities, he’s easily disoriented.
The usual handmaidens were waiting for him and immediately whisked him away. He hadn’t any time to protest and was washed and dress quickly before being hurriedly herded into Meiah’s quarters. As if in a whirlwind, Sord found himself sitting in front of the third princess.
Chapter 14: Necromaton
A couple of weeks before Sord and Meiah's arrival in Negral City, following their eventful journey through Molokkai, an ominous force begins to stir unbeknownst to the citizens of Maroka. This looming threat proves more perilous than the conspiracies brewing within the city of Negral.
Deep underground, in a well-lit facility near Tarak, the central capital of Molokai, an unsettling development takes shape. The walls of this subterranean chamber are lined with imposing glass cylinders, each containing enigmatic liquids. A complex network of pipes and cables weaves through the tubes, and within this intricate apparatus, an eerie and unsettling spectacle unfolds.
Obscured behind the translucent glass walls, a vague humanoid form materializes, though grotesquely disproportionate and massive. Gnomish workers bustle about their tasks, reminiscent of industrious ants. Diligently, they attend to each tube, meticulously recording notes, while others manipulate valves and pull levers at seemingly arbitrary intervals. Curiosity compels one worker to tap the glass with a pen, resulting in a resounding thud. Surprisingly resilient, the glass evokes a wide, sharp-toothed grin from the gnomish laborer.
These are the Norewaldian Gnomes—masters of machinery, tinkerers, and artificers driven by an insatiable thirst for discovery and profit. Standing just shy of four feet, these cunning and self-serving beings bear pasty, pale skin, pointed ears, small beady eyes, and wickedly toothy mouths.
While their undeniable intelligence is acknowledged, Gnomes' inventions tend to gravitate toward the sinister and lethal. Their unparalleled knack for intertwining mechanics with Norewald's arcane forces often results in ingenious yet terrifying weapons. Their masterpiece, the morbid "Suits," surpasses the realm of mere armor, fusing machinery with once-living creatures to create towering monstrosities animated through necromantic energies.
Within these massive glass cylinders, suspended in viscous liquid, rest their latest creations—weapons that ostensibly confer upon ordinary individuals the powers and attributes of creatures existing beyond the Lodestones. Though colloquially labeled "Suits," these abominations differ vastly from conventional armaments. They stand as a grim fusion of flesh and metal, former living entities now animated solely by necromantic forces. The reprehensible Gnomes ensnare formidable creatures, even those possessing sentience, subjecting them to this despicable transformation. Victims' heads are severed and preserved in jars, while the creatures' central nervous systems are commandeered and integrated with control mechanisms, ultimately rendering these unfortunate beings as arcane cybernetic entities.
Amidst this grim assembly, a shadowy figure emerges, commanding the attention of the bustling Gnomes. The facility is saturated with the acrid scent of blood and the pungent odor of decay. An individual of prominence approaches the enigmatic figure, a figure characterized by an impeccable Marokan fashion sense—an obese human man adorned in a dark three-piece suit, accompanied by a long overcoat and a matching top hat.
Towering over others even by human standards, his aura exudes both power and strength. While his physique suggests corpulence, his constant smile reveals an aura of malevolence hidden beneath tinted spectacles. This enigmatic figure goes by the name Lord Mayall.
With an air of authority, Mayall's entrance is met with a respectful bow from the head Gnome. The clipboard, once in Adonn's possession, is handed over to Mayall. A profound grin stretches across Mayall's face, his shoulders quivering with slow, calculated chuckles as he peruses the data before him. His bejeweled, sausage-like fingers flip through the pages, tracing over numerous fine scars that crisscross his hands. The content clearly satisfies him, and he returns the clipboard to the head Gnome.
In a deep, resonant baritone, Mayall's voice reverberates through the chamber, dripping with melodious approval. "Excellent, Professor, truly excellent. A real-world trial is the final step before delivery and acceptance. Your work, Meredeth, is nothing short of genius. You shall be rewarded accordingly."
Meredeth, the head Gnome, dismisses the notion of reward, asserting that his success serves as its own satisfaction. He only requests the provision of ample test subjects and research materials. Mayall, intrigued by Meredeth's unorthodox priorities, counters with continued financial support, mindful that the well-being of the company's employees also relies on such backing. As Mayall tosses a heavy bag of money onto the cluttered desk, its weight resonates audibly, validating the substantial sum within.
Assured of resources for his experiments, Meredeth proposes conducting combat trials to assess the units' quality. In the event Mayall cannot attend, he assures the provision of a silent witness to report the outcomes. Mayall concurs with the plan, seizing the opportunity to remind Meredeth of the delicate yet critical "special delivery" of the units to Negral. Adonn Mercer's promise of substantial extra payment for this delivery is at the forefront of Mayall's mind.
Meredeth gestures towards a large glass-pane window, drawing Mayall's gaze to a scene of activity outside. Gigantic bladders are being inflated with lighter-than-air gas, some receiving coats of paint to mimic the morning sky—camouflage to conceal their sinister intent. One of the bladders nears completion, ascending into the air as it is partially airborne. Mayall's eyes flicker with morbid anticipation behind his tinted spectacles. He envisions Negral consumed by flames, plunged into chaos and carnage—his weapon's deadly payload achieving its intended havoc. Yet, Mayall's motives differ from Adonn's pursuit of wealth. His ambitions encompass showcasing Gnomish innovation's potential for warfare, aiming to demonstrate that these inventions can bring even the formidable Dominion to its knees.
Aligned in their actions but divergent in their motivations, both Adonn and Mayall stand as potent adversaries to the dominion. As they move from the shadows into the forefront of the impending conflict, their intentions—hidden from the masses—intertwine in a narrative where Maroka's salvation might emerge from the unlikeliest of sources.
As Lord Mayall executes a graceful bow, his movements exaggerated, akin to a showman concluding a grand spectacle, a curious juxtaposition unfolds—the remarkable ease with which his corpulent frame navigates the motion. Among those in proximity to Mayall, a keen ear might detect sporadic clicking noises, so faint that they slip past the notice of most, an enigmatic tic underscoring his presence.
Gradually, he dissolves into the bustling tapestry of the background, his laughter—soft yet tinged with an unsettling edge—echoing in a manner both subdued and eerily maniacal, as if he were evaporating into the very atmosphere.
Chapter 15: Prelude to the last meeting
As Meiah impatiently awaits Sord's explanation for his tardiness, the intensity of her gaze upon the Arganian doesn't go unnoticed. He becomes instantly wary, sensing her possible displeasure, perhaps due to his delay caused by getting lost on his way back. Anticipating a reprimand, he readies himself for an impending earful.
However, unbeknownst to him, Meiah's preoccupation extends far beyond his tardiness. Worried and devoid of information from her sister's domain, she unconsciously paces around her office, seemingly oblivious to the mounting piles of paperwork that await her attention. Her thoughts are consumed by the recent events involving Sord and her sister. Though she holds firm in her belief that Sord wouldn't easily fall victim to Alea's seductive tactics, her concern for his well-being drives her anxiety to new heights.
Marithe, observing her mistress's distress, eventually feels compelled to intervene. Attempting to soothe Meiah's unease, she reminds her that Sord is capable and resilient, urging her not to worry excessively. Meiah did not respond as the growing anxiety gnaws at her more and more as time passes without even the slightest news, she would look out of her office window hoping to finally catch a glimpse of the carriage that fetched him.
Her mind plays images of the young Arganian in the arms of her sister, convincing him to stay with her and abandon Meiah. Alea certainly have the faculty to seduce and entice men if she cannot use her brawn. As the sun began to set she was so upset that she was in the verge of tears in frustration.
Until she sought a glimpse of the lone Arganian walking towards the Onyx palace, she was able to spot him almost a mile away, she had remembered details about him, not just the striking long hair, but also his little motions and gestures, how he turns his head to admire the scenery, like a child lost in a wonderland. Her mood improves and unknowingly bursts a smile as she hurriedly summoned her handmaidens and gave instructions what to do when Sord enters the grounds.
She herself hurriedly took off to bathe to feel refreshed once they bring Sord to her in her chambers. Initially bewildered by her actions but it now seemed Marithe understood her as she sighed. Thinking of the possible consequences of the presence of the Arganian in the household. It could potentially be catastrophic. The Dark Queen also took notice of the young man. This does not bode well she thought. But for now opted to observe the unfolding events and may even dare intervene in the behalf of the Imperial Family.
Well? Meiah finally blurted out. Tell me what happened, ALL of it and spare no details. She said as she leaned over him with both hands on his shoulders.
Of course Sord said awkwardly surprised at the behavior of the Princess. He honestly told the unfolding of the eventful meeting with Alea and emphasized the part that he get to progress to meet the Dark Queen soon, he however downplayed the interaction and proposals of Alea.
Meiah almost ignored the crucial news and quickly latched on the part of the interaction, to her, the indecent proposal of Alea making her blood boil. Somehow Sord knew she would not be thrilled about that part of the news so he downplayed it as much as he could, as for its effectivity, it remained to be seen.
She said what!? Meiah said almost in a rage but managed to still control herself upon hearing that Alea offered herself to Sord, which he was quick to say that he rejected her outright, he believes that there would be no consequences as he’s already bested her in single combat and besides, she already promised him she’s not going to move against them though she still wanted to pursue the throne.
Meiah was skeptical of Alea’s involvement but she does credit her sister as being honest. In retrospect, she does acknowledge that her negative traits were her ambition and violent temper. She still could not let slide her attempt in seducing her beloved. Sord asked Meiah that all went well in the end aside from Alea letting him walk back to the palace alone, asked her what was the matter that still bothered her.
It was good news indeed but the real issue was Alea’s attempt to steal Sord away. She decided to let it go for the moment as this would actually be the perfect time to confess to him and would explain her anxiety. Her heart once again pounded with the prospect of baring her heart to him. It wasn’t customary for Marokan nobility to express themselves like that and is almost taboo. But she decided to do it anyway, yes he must know how she felt. She musters the courage to do it.
However the opportunity was lost when Marithe burst in to the room heading the handmaidens as they wheeled in their meal for the night. They set up their table and served them the meals, the rest leave aside from Marithe who continued serving them, much to the vexation of Meiah who wanted to scream in frustration and her bad luck.
Sord did noticed Meiah was about to tell her something very important but was interrupted yet again by Marithe. He found the situation funny and seeing Meiah’s range of emotions endeared her to him more, she is honest to herself stuck to her beliefs, more and more he was drawn to her. He could not explain the emotions he feels but definitely this person in front of him definitely matters to him and holds her close in his heart.
Marithe observed the two, she hardly recognizes Meiah anymore, gone is the stern leader, a person that values results and is merciless to failures, her aversion to men and the sense of superiority now indistinguishable in her actions when she’s with this Arganian. She does think Sord was pleasing to the eye and by no means uncouth, he’s well civilized for an Arganian whom they considered a bit barbaric. Sure he had this unexplained charm to him but those cannot be only reason she had taken a liking to the lad. Though perplexed, Marithe continued to watch over the two as she did ever since they arrived in Negral.
As she bows out to call the handmaidens to take away the used dishes, she was surprised to run into the Dark Queen who was, herself been observing Sord and Meiah from the door that was left ajar. Marithe salutes her but Lilly put her finger to her mouth, indicating she does not want them to see her. Marithe understood.
Lilly asked Marithe, what she make of those two, meaning Sord and Meiah. Surprised of the question, he could not cover for Meiah especially when the Dark Queen was the one asking. She honestly answered Lilly.
I’ve been watching them all these days now, and it is obvious they they’re crazy for one another, the Arganian is a bit thick but if he knew it or not, based on his actions, I think he really cares for her, and the princess is the one most vested in it your Grace, and by the looks of it, she seemed to be trying to convey her feelings for him, I just manage to interrupt her. Lilly listened to Marithe intently, responding to her.
Is that so? Well let’s not tease her too much, let her be and just continue watching them. I like the Arganian myself, and as I hear it, my other two darlings also seemed to like him a lot too. Lilly thanked her as they leave them alone.
She thought out loud. Now what to do? As she disappeared in the dimly lit hallways of the palace. What a delightful boy, she thought about their guest. But she can’t afford to spend much thought about personal things now as there are important things she needed to attend too, as a ruler in a vast Dominion, her work is not easy. She reached her bureau and as soon as she sat, a shadowy figure materializes behind her and knelt beside the queen presenting a letter from her spymaster.
She read the letter and it only indicated a request a personal audience with her. It must be grave when the spymaster himself needed confidence with the Dark Queen. She told the messenger she agrees and summons the spymaster to appear before her in her office soon as possible. With that, the shadow disappeared into the night.
She still needed to review some important paperwork that needed her approval. Micromanaging things is really not her forte, she did delegated most of the administrative tasks to the ministers but there are still some things that needed her personal attention. Her mind wandered how it would feel to be out in a wild adventure, fighting monsters and free from the shackles of the monarchy. She reflects on her conversation with Sord and how he so inspired her not to give up on her dreams. One can only hope my dear Arganian, said to herself as she buried herself in her work.
The next few days were uneventful for Sord, not for Meiah however, the consequences of his success in his meeting with the other two princesses that had left with them such a deep impression of him, they started to frequently visit him. Much to the annoyance of Meiah as she now would have to contend for his attention, this frustrates her even more. What’s next she thought, will she find her sisters in his bedchambers one of these days? She bitterly asked herself.
However she can now take the opportunity to clarify with Sere what she meant by her words of warning about the dark queen. Sere explained that the Queen now constantly monitors Sord and if Meiah missteps, she could lose him. Taken aback she looked at Sord with confusion on her face. Sord didn’t know what was up and told them that he had not met the queen yet so he’s quite puzzled why the intense scrutiny.
Indeed a mystery to them but still remained that Sord would need to face the Queen soon. Perhaps he can asked her directly when they meet. Alea warned him that the queen is not like them, she wield vast powers that even she doubts Sord can successfully face. Sord shrugged his shoulders and said that he’ll cross that bridge when he gets there.
Meiah wanted to sit beside him but unfortunately, the duo already cornered the Arganian with Alea on his right and Sere on his left which left Meiah with a good view of the trio since she’s left with no place but to sit directly in front of Sord. There should be no more animosity between the sisters now since that they now discovered that the assassination attempts and the crimes that happened outside were not related to neither Alea nor Sere, only conflict was the succession as Meiah still believed her sister will steer the country into chaos.
Meiah annoyed by the interruption of her sibling and very much also that fact that they’re pestering Sord now, asked them if they have anything to do.
Sere said that she suspended her work till Sord fulfil his promise to her that he’ll bring some of his brother’s work to her, while Alea reasoned that she’s taking a break from her duties because she was supposedly recovering from her injuries when she had her duel with Sord, playfully blaming him for it and suggest that he takes care of her to take responsibilities.
Finally Meiah had enough of the nonsense as she yelled that she can heal herself with magic and it was her fault for being hurt in the first place because of stupidity of challenging the Arganian. Alea playfully asked Sord to say something as she’s being yelled at by that brute Meiah. Sord was at a loss for words as he’s truly treading carefully on a minefield. At this point Meiah was almost gnashing her teeth.
Thankfully a maid came in to hand a letter to Sord. It was finally the summon to face the Dark Queen as soon as possible as she await in the now empty throne room, he will face her in her position of power, which in their belief, is an irresistible force. Soon the Queen’s handmaidens escorted Sord to the throne room. The palace was sealed as extra guards were posted all around.
Sord can’t help but marvel at the Dark Queens Impressive body guards, clad in high quality, black but lustrous full plate armor, fully gilded and adorned with the finest detailed scrollwork. Each edge and even each rivet head is carved with finely carved artwork, chaste in gold. That sheen is not a sheen produced by steel, with his expert eyes he knew it was made with Mithril, a strong, tough and light metal that is a good conductor of magic. Each so expensive that it can easily be worth a large manor with a farm.
Sord was thankful that he was rescued just in time as the sisters are acting strange, or was it that they were always like this? Nonetheless, he was saved from a silly situation. Not that he disliked the attention of the Princesses, he found them interesting, so unlike the disingenuous Arganian royalty. The Marokans were stiff in tradition and protocol but are also honest, a trait he respects. As he was being taken away to the palace, the sisters quietly looked on as he enters the palace uncertain what was going to happen next.
This is a chance however, for the princesses to talk among themselves. Alea asked Sere that she wishes to publicly denounce the recent crimes that rumors insinuated that Alea herself had something to do about it. Sere being the most versed in matters of protocol advised her that she can do so if she does it in the presence of the Queen in her throne room to take advantage of the Obsidian Throne’s Zone of Truth, once she does that the public would be at peace as the rumors would be effectively quashed.
Sere highlighted the process, it was simple but aside from the queen, the consent of the council was also needed which will be hard as some of them may be involved in the conspiracy to tarnish her reputation.
Sere suggested that if Sord gains the approval of the queen Sord will progress to the banquet for the induction as he would then socialize with the nobles. Since he has a quality that can easily persuade a person without resorting to magic it should be easy to either gain support or ferret out the conspirators in their midst. Alea and Meiah agrees it could work.
But it will all hinge to the success of his meeting with the queen herself. For the first time in a long while, all sister agreed. Alea for the moment set aside her secret animosity for Meiah, the daughter of the favored Sorian. She was asked by Sord to clear her name she must do it for her own sake as well. They all secretly hoped that Sord succeed.
Chapter 16: The Encounter with the Dark Queen
This is a chance however, for the princesses to talk among themselves. Alea asked Sere that she wishes to publicly denounce the recent crimes that rumors insinuated that Alea herself had something to do about it. Sere being the most versed in matters of protocol advised her that she can do so if she does it in the presence of the Queen in her throne room to take advantage of the Obsidian Throne’s Zone of Truth, once she does that the public would be at peace as the rumors would be effectively quashed.
Sere highlighted the process, it was simple but aside from the queen, the consent of the council was also needed which will be hard as some of them may be involved in the conspiracy to tarnish her reputation. Sere suggested that if Sord gains the approval of the queen Sord will progress to the banquet for the induction as he would then socialize with the nobles. Since he has a quality that can easily persuade a person without resorting to magic it should be easy to either gain support or ferret out the conspirators in their midst. Alea and Meiah agrees it could work.
But it will all hinge to the success of his meeting with the queen herself. For the first time in a long while, all sister agreed. Alea for the moment set aside her secret animosity for Meiah, the daughter of the favored Sorian. She was asked by Sord to clear her name she must do it for her own sake as well. They all secretly hoped that Sord succeed.
Dark Queen Lillinthia Victarinna Llarranah IV, atop the ultimate symbol of power of the Dominion, the Obsidian throne. It is more than a symbol or a literal throne, it is a relic of a mysterious past that bestow the titular Dark Queen myriads of power as long as she rules, and she is almost immortal. She sat waiting for her anticipated formal meeting with the Arganian, Sord. An individual brought by her daughter Anameiah Invicta Llarranah with supposedly skills and advancement in metallurgy that will add more prestige and military as well as common advantage.
Dark Queen Lilly as she’s affectionately known have adhered to the needs of protocol since the arrival of her daughter. She wanted to be close to her and embrace her, she was worried when Meiah went to Argania to seek the fable Harbinger and bring proof of her triumph over him. She was extremely happy when she found out that she had finally returned home safe after many months with promising news of her success.
Lilly was aware of the rivalry and animosity between the first princess Genna Ultimarna or Alea and Meiah, both vying for the throne after she expressed her wishes to step down. She felt that her long grief of losing her consort, General Sorian had affected her capacity to rule. She is still split on the thought of leaving the throne, in one hand she will be free of the fetters of monarchy but on the other hand, the unsettling news of dissent and the unusual events that seemed, by design, meant to drive the opinion of the masses away from the Imperial family and cause a wide rift between the Princesses.
She recalls her meeting with her Spymaster, though the latter still does not have any proof that a rebellion was indeed underway nor any proof that the recent unsolved massacres were done by any of her daughters, there is a strong indication that an underground movement is working in the shadows. Lilly is reluctant to hand over power to any of her daughters just to inherit kingdom plunged in despair.
It would seem that the arrival of Meiah and her guest could be fortuitous. If he’s able to provide the Dominion with an edge to improve their military capability and advance their civilization as a whole, would be a boon. Also as she investigate the lad further it would seem that in a short time, he was able to stabilize the relationship of her daughters as in the last few days they have been interacting with each other with the usual bickering. Certainly this boy has a likeable and pleasant personality her daughters gravitated to.
Even she cannot deny the pleasantness of his character had moved her deeply. She’s certain that she nor her daughters were bewitched or anything, but they probably found the Arganian to be quite agreeable with his disarming charm. And she certainly knows that he was extremely dangerous. Bases on her observation and intuition, his unassuming personality is a deadly bait. Still she found herself wanting to be in his company, she can understand her daughter’s fondness of him.
With a mischievous grin, she sent her head maid to also summon her daughters to come join their meeting. When the maid left, there was an announcement of the arrival of the summoned guest to the great hall, the throne room. The Knight Captain instructed Sord to stand before the Queen as the knight ceremoniously walked backwards towards the grand hall portal closing the huge and ornate doors, no one is allowed to turn their backs to the Dark Queen.
An ethereally majestic sight was beheld in from of Sord that Arganian, there before him was the supreme ruler of Maroka, the esteemed mother of Meiah, all known by all Arganian as the Dread Queen of the dark Dominion. There she sat majestically in the very unique but ominous looking dark colored slab of stone that emanated some sort of magical energy.
The throne itself wasn’t carved ornately but is as plain as an untouched black stone sticking up on a dais, now the background was something else, the gilded scrollwork and carvings matched the Dominions theme. Highly ornate decorated with priceless gems. Sitting on the throne is no lesser a jewel herself, she carried her majestic presence and exuded an aura of awe and power. Her Imperial regalia was the finest in all of Norewald. The Dark Queen’s gown was not as puffy as their southern counterpart that favors lace and ribbons.
Maroka’s Dark Queen wore an outfit that highlights her sensual nature, black translucent fabric made from phantom Spider silk which was extremely expensive and extremely tough. Dark purple velvet dress with matching bodice and instead of a Tiara or crown she wears a little hat with a veil also made with the translucent fabric of phantom spider silk. Her violet eyes seemed to glow behind the veil as she looked down at her visitor. Her small thin lips are reddened with the finest rouge.
Most foreigners would immediately bow down in her presence, Marokan citizens would do a salute with a closed fist on one’s chest or curtsy for ladies. Sord, ever the curious one looked around the grand vaulted great hall of the throne room with awe and wonder. Not ashamed to let out words of complement.
The Queen’s maids or Ladies in waiting, quietly but still audibly gasp as they cringe because of the Arganian’s seemingly lack of decorum in the presence of the Monarch. Which actually thrilled the queen.
I’m glad you liked my house Master Smith. She said casually. Sord cocked his head and turned towards the queen while she cracks a smile. She spoke again as if to interrupt what he was going to say.
Please bear with me for a while my dear, we wait for my other darlings. Sord could only nod in silent was he continues to smile at her. She had me, she had me good, Sord thought to himself. Almost laughing as he realized his blunder. Soon another announcement as the arrival of the three princesses as they entered the grand hall shoulder to shoulder. There they saw Sord standing before the Queen, then the prime minister appeared just in front and below the last steps of the elevated dais of the throne.
Other important ministers also appeared which was unusual, this should have been a private meeting with the visitor that seeks induction. The princesses were puzzled at the turns of events. Sord was clueless of that was the true meaning of this event. No one knew what was happening, even the ministers, as far as they knew they were summoned for an important meeting with the Dark Queen. Which kind of made them on edge.
But no one dared ask what the hell was going on and could only speculate. Once the great doors were sealed every one waited anxiously for the queen’s words. Lilly began to speak.
Thank you all of you that heeded my call, my dear daughters, esteemed minsters and our honored guest. She announced with a firm but kind voice, without standing from her throne. She continues.
I apologize for the short notice, but please do forgive me for this frivolous request, I once again offer my thanks. I wanted to make this a private meeting between this Arganian, Mastersmith, Sord of Swamburgh, who so graciously offered his services to Maroka to make our Dominion even greater. I know you may not trust an Arganian so easily until he had proven his intentions are not to harm Maroka. The wares he brought us were extraordinarily crafted by him, and I have seen and examined those with my own hands and judged them to be outstanding.
I had ordered here the minister of war to verify my findings and certify the Arganian’s craftsmanship. But the reason I called you here is to announce that I will accept Master Sord into my Domain, and that you are all notified, please, familiarize your selves with him as did the Princesses.
Lilliy announced all those as she were walking down the marvelously ornate and gilded steps, till he stood face to face with Sord.
Your will be done my Queen! The ministers declared in unison. Sord was astounded at the level of respect the ministers showed, they obeyed without questions. Impressed, Sord gave an approving look at Lilly.
Well your imperial majesty, all I can say is thank you but. Lilly’s eyebrow raised “But?” as she interrupts Sord.
Yes, well you got me real good Lilly, why didn’t you tell me? Sord asked the Dark Queen. Lilly burst into laughter as she dismissed the ministers. The princesses were all in confusion started to look among themselves questioningly.
Lilly took off her veil to expose to Sord her face asking him. How did you know it was me? She asked the youth before her. Sord now looking a bit embarrassed as he answers the Queen.
Come now you majesty, we shared stories for hours, I really got to know you, can’t hide behind a veil, and your scent, that perfume, I remember it. All that talk of taking your dreams and fate into your hands and I was speaking to the queen? You got me real good You Majesty.
Lilly laughed heartily as she pled. Please, just do not make me envy may darling whom you call casually by their nicknames. Before Sord can respond they were interrupted by the Princesses especially Meiah.
Mother, explain yourself, how do you know Sord? She asked with vexed tone. Lilly explained her encounter with Sord the first night in the palace. Explaining to them she was out looking for sweets and went to the pantry and took some cake and then Sord came meandering in the kitchen, returning used plates and utensils.
There he struck in casual conversation with her, and she admitted that she was enthralled in his honesty and casual demeanor which he found refreshing. Meiah with brows furrowed turned to Sord. All that and you did not mention any of it to me? And what is this “take your fate in your hands” thing? Sord looked defensive and reasoned that he thought Lilly was a handmaiden and did not want her to get in trouble as he thought he wasn’t supposed to wander around. Meiah found the explanation acceptable, but to think he would confuse the Dark Queen for a maid is quite rude the thought.
And what about the fate in your hands thing? She inquired. Lilly interrupted, that my little darling, is a secret dear Sord and I must share I’m afraid. As she looks to Sord who, she thought was getting extremely uncomfortable wish she finds cute. She realize that forgot her place and calmed down, she’s just pry it out of Sord later. Lilly clapped her hands to catch their attention and said that she and Sord still need to talk in private as the protocol still needed to be done.
Lilly dismissed all that are present in the great hall, leaving just Sord and her. Sord looked around and found no other seats or tables, are they to converse standing up? Soon as Lilly was sure that they are alone she turns to Sord with a serious face. She looked over Sord from head to toe, studying his form, he’s not as tall as she remembers him now that they are able to stand face to face, and she was actually a bit taller than the Arganian. Sord, unsure what to do awaits Lilly’s next move.
Let me go straight to the point Master Sord, what exactly is your relationship with my daughter Meiah? What is your true goal? You will be honest with me master Sord. Lilly used her power to compel the Arganian to tell the truth. However she’s unaware that magic has no effect on him. Sord answered her.
I’m not sure what you meant by relationship, milady, I dare say she’s become a dear friend and I suppose we can be called teacher and student relation perhaps, mentor her in the ways of the sword, nothing formal and I can’t say how proficient I am at teaching but, subjectively in my view, she improved a lot. As for my goal? Sord replied and thought about the last part before responding.
Well I suppose everyone is driven by some sort of motive and is entirely reasonable that you milady would ask, it’s true that I seek profit from my ventures. More so, I must confess, I did promise the princess that I will fully support her cause, which I am sure you are privy to it and not my place to divulge. I promise you, it’s nothing malign. His response would seem thin but the Lilly understood what the Arganian meant. She pries no longer. After some thought, weighing the consequences of Sord’s presence in the equation, she found the risk acceptable.
No longer worried of his intents, she goes into some personal matters, the boy somehow reminded her of her late consort, though they are vastly different and perhaps contrasting, it’s the Arganian’s honesty and confidence that parallels the great general’s.
My daughter would be disappointed to hear that you consider her as merely a friend, I am not sure if you are a cruel one for not reciprocating her feelings or just really blissfully oblivious to it. What can you say in your behalf? Sord was admittedly a bit confused of the queen’s statements at first, he thought perhaps she judges his loyalty to her daughter lacking, it did occur to him that perhaps the Queen was insinuating about romantic interests with Meiah. A mix of emotions washed over him, as well as a realization, the closeness of and fondness exhibited by the princess, her unusual behavior the past few weeks.
I need not spell it out to you Master Sord, you realize that my daughter has feelings for you and it seemed that you are oblivious to it. I don’t know what to do with you, it seemed also that you had planted the seeds of interest in my other darlings as well, why, I should hold you accountable and take responsibility for awakening the hearts of Marokan Princesses.
Sord was taken aback by her last statements. He explains that he would never play with a maiden’s heart. Lilly seeing Sord’s terrified and somewhat confused reaction, decided to let him off the hook for now. She laughed out loud explaining that she was just toying with him. I believe you Master Sord. You truly are unfair, I wonder, shall I permit you to pursue my daughters? But If you truly do not fancy them, will you take me then? I would truly love to go out on an adventure with you. She playfully declared.
In a loss for words, his sharp wit failed him and seemed to have become a bumbling mess in the face of the Queen’s taunts. But the Queen spared him as she said she was just merely jesting but did admit she was seriously extending her friendship. On a more serious note she said that there are things that disturbed her, she revealed that she too was aware of the smear campaign against Alea and touch the subject of the attempted assassination attempts on Meiah.
She confirmed that there was another party that orchestrated that whole thing even the broad daylight attack on Sord and Meiah at the market. Sord was surprised that she knew of the incident. Lilly revealed that her spymaster had looked into the matter and was not able to get much information, Lilly initially thought that Sord was a potential suspect but the Spymaster advised her that it was unlikely aside from the lack of evidence, they too were targeted.
Sord also had a revelation, that he did get a glimpse of a woman cloaked in magical invisibility and described to the queen her looks. A bit puzzled how Sord could have seen an invisible figure if it was, that. Invisible. Even the queen did not know of the identity of that woman. Sord assured her that he would recognize her if she saw her again.
Logically, the queen surmised that only the assassin’s guild leader could be the culprit but she had never known an instance that the guild would move against the Dominion’s power. Going in this lead she instructed the Spymaster to look into it. Sord asked Lilly of he could get her permission on two more things. She agrees.
Sord said that he wanted Sere to help him sort out the mystery as he that get more information, as she can formulate a plan of action to expose the shadowy perpetrators, and also, the Queens permission for Alea to publicly disavow the recent murders as being tied to her, and do it under the Zone of truth.
The Queen was delighted to hear that Sord was proactive in helping her daughter clear her name. She expressly game her permission and praised him for his concern. Sord replied that he’s only looking out for Meiah’s family.
Is that part of your vow to Meiah? Lilly playfully asked. Well no, not exactly, it may be even counter to what she wanted me to do for her, in the light of the situation, it was unwarranted to let an innocent person be the focus of hate, especially a sibling, My mother always said, blood is thicker than water and it will always remain so. He replied.
It’s true I guess, it never occurred to me to me that Arganians are very familial centered. We always thought of your people to be less close knit unlike here in Maroka who values family bonds. Lilly explained without sounding offensive.
Well at least most people in my town are, in Swamburgh, I can’t say for sure about the other people in the empire or in the capital. Since I live in that is considered a backwater town, I think that we’re a closer knit folks than that of the city folks in Akilla.
Lilly the Dark Queen reflected on his words, and asked him. Would you not be branded as a traitor by your own country if you sell us your wares and taught us your techniques in manufacturing them? How do you feel about that, are you really turning your back on your empire for money?
Sord candidly answered her. If doing business with another country is treason, they can try and hang me. But know this milady, I am not turning my back on the Empire for coin, if I do, I’d be doing it for a friend, a beloved, someone I’d gladly die for. She admired him for what he said and cannot find any hint of deception in his words.
I understand you master Sord, but I must warn you that your country’s laws and your association with a non-ally country such as ours, is a problem that cannot be glossed over, but as of you have to yet prove yourself to us I can promise you that I will do everything in my power to be of use to you. And she added. Speaking of which my dear, it seems my power and influence are of little to no effect on you, am I wrong? Sord said and assured her that she did have the most profound impression on him. Even on their first meeting. She wasn’t sure if he just evaded her question. She then shifted her point of discussion to a more serious matter. You said a little while ago when you wanted to help my daughter Alea deny her involvement of those unsolved crimes, and that there are powers that dared oppose us. My civil guards are being mocked and made a fool of, what make you think you can solve the crimes and exonerate my Alea? Sord responded.
Well I have Princess Sere’s help, she has the biggest brains here I think. Lilly was surprised and replied. Oh you convinced her to do something aside from her magical research? She’s not so keen in solving mundane crime mysteries, how did you manage to convince her? But I know if she puts her mind to it, she will be a great asset and you may be able to solve the crime.
It’s not going to be easy as we still have a lot we do not know about, with your permission we’d like to begin the hunt. Sord said.
The queen promised all her support and warned that. If there is a nefarious organization that dared create turmoil in my Dominion, you can wager that they have some sort of means to fight against us, that power may not be so inconsequential. Your involvement may turn their eyes on you if they have not already when you came here.
Sord understood and said that he’s aware of the consequences, he proposed that he actually be the bait to lure out the perpetrators. The Queen asked Sord to be careful, her Spymaster still can’t get proof but he suspected that a couple of trading companies may have something to do with it as some witnesses claimed that the criminals that committed the suspected murders were seen entering the premises of Mercer and Valiant trading. The Spymaster had his spies observe the place for days but nothing suspicious happened.
Sord said they’d consider that information thanking the Queen. She said that she wished they had more time to speak but duty calls to her and need to finish up her daily tasks. She came close to him and gave his a hug and whispered in his ear that she hoped to have a casual chat again sometime, she left Sord standing alone in the great hall. Unsure if the casual contact was just normal for the queen as he’s a little unsettled that such an important person was too casual with him, He thought of asking Meiah or her sisters about it later as he feels he’d done something faux pas.
As Lilly, the Dark Queen of Maroka return to her office, her heart was racing and was a little embarrassed of what she’s done, it’s not in the protocol to be too close like that to a man other than her consort. But what was she so flustered about, she was the Queen, her word is law, she IS law and she is Maroka. Embracing the young man was a spur of the moment and he’s barely a man in her eyes, but the flustered feeling remained. It would seem that the Arganian had left a profound impression with the Queen.
Chapter 17: An Unexpected Encounter, Lilly’s account of the encounter.
Sitting atop the Obsidian Throne, I, Lillinthia Victarinna Llarranah IV, the Dark Queen of Maroka, awaited a momentous meeting. The grandeur of the throne was more than a mere symbol—it emanated a potent energy that had been harnessed through the ages. And there, in front of me, stood an Arganian metalworker named Sord, an individual whose arrival had intrigued me greatly.
My daughter, Meiah, had introduced Sord as a skilled craftsman with advanced metallurgical techniques, capable of enhancing our military and trade capabilities. The allure of such advancements had piqued my curiosity, and I saw this meeting as an opportunity to delve deeper into his intentions.
My mind, burdened by the complexities of ruling a Dominion, welcomed the chance to interact with someone from a world beyond our borders. The recent turmoil had been disconcerting, with rumors and crimes tarnishing our reputation. I believed that Sord held answers that could aid in uncovering the truth.
As Sord and I engaged in conversation, I observed his demeanor closely. His honesty and disarming charm were evident from the outset, intriguing and challenging my assumptions. Clad in my dark purple velvet dress, I found myself enchanted by his genuine nature.
Our conversation meandered through various subjects—Meiah's predicament, the recent crimes, and even matters of the heart. Sord's concern for my daughters was touching, especially his commitment to assisting Meiah in clearing her name. His dedication to the truth resonated with me, and I was inclined to grant him the permission he sought to aid in our investigations.
Amid our discussion, Sord's affable nature led him to tease me about the interactions he'd had with my daughters, particularly Meiah. His words carried a playful hint of romantic intrigue, prompting a mix of amusement and contemplation within me. I was taken aback by his boldness and yet found myself appreciating his candidness.
As the conversation shifted to graver matters—the attempts on Meiah's life and the overarching conspiracy—I sensed Sord's earnest desire to assist. He spoke of his suspicions regarding a mysterious woman, cloaked in magical invisibility, who had played a role in these events. Sord's determination to seek the truth and expose those responsible impressed me greatly.
Sord's request for the involvement of my daughter Sere in the investigations was met with my approval. His logical approach and commitment to solving the mysteries were qualities I valued. I admired his willingness to immerse himself in the intricacies of Marokan politics, even as danger loomed.
Our conversation took an unexpected turn when Sord jokingly brought up his interactions with my daughters again. His light-hearted demeanor and genuine concern for their well-being touched a chord within me. As our exchange concluded, I felt a strange impulse to offer him a hug—a spontaneous gesture that surprised even me.
As I left the grand throne room, I found myself pondering the encounter. Sord's presence had stirred something within me, a mixture of vulnerability and intrigue. As the ruler of Maroka, I rarely allowed such emotions to sway me, yet this Arganian had managed to awaken a side of me I had long kept hidden.
In the solitude of my chambers, I reflected on the significance of our meeting. The power of the Obsidian Throne had exposed me to countless souls, each vying for influence or attempting to manipulate me. Sord, however, had stood apart—an enigma whose honesty and sincerity had left an indelible mark.
The Dark Queen, feared and revered by many, had found herself captivated by the essence of a single individual. Sord's presence had triggered a chain of events that would shape the future of the Dominion, and as I contemplated the road ahead, I couldn't help but wonder how this newfound connection would unfold.
Chapter 18: Unveiling Shadows
Celebrating their victory, Sord and Meiah got to indulge in some Marokan specialty dishes. This time they dinned in the palace dining hall, joined by Alea and Sere. Their mother was not present since she had to attend to Imperial duties. The princesses were toasting to Sord’s success and their gaining the approval to move ahead with the main two points, he announcement of Alea’s declaration of exoneration of the crimes committed supposedly by her.
And also they now needed to initiate their own investigation on the matter as it is suspected that the assassination attempts were connected to the perpetrators of the former mentioned crimes. Sere hypothesized that they intended to sow discord between the princesses and perhaps with the queen as well. Such an audacious scheme she thought but to what end.
She also speculated that the shadowy group may have spies that infiltrated the Onyx Palace, how else they can monitor the rising animosity of the targeted princesses. It did made sense to the others as it was one of the more obvious reason how they can see into the palace but that now meant that a bigger threat is looming behind the scenes if left unchecked.
Sord thought back on the Queen’s warning to him that if there are indeed an opposition to the Imperial family’s rule, it would be a force to at least match the Queen’s power or else they would resort to a more underhanded tactics. Sere accounted for that hypothesis as well and asked herself that if she were to aim for the dissolution of the Imperial Family’s rule, she would need to divide the house first then set the people against them.
Sord and the princesses thought of other ways for Alea to avoid the citizen’s vitriol which was fanned by the perpetrators and her own inaction, from fully exploding. Alea’s indifference towards the situation exacerbates the problem they needed to solve. Meiah sensing Sord’s split attention, later once they were alone, inquired if it would be alright to focus in her Sister Alea’s problem first, before them going ahead with their own agenda.
Sord thought for a while, contemplating and admiring the changes Meiah had gone through, she seemed to genuinely care for her sibling and he thinks focusing on Alea’s issues would simplify his work a little bit, of course, he still worries about another important matter that the assassins were still out for Meiah as they were foiled in their attempts, which were ongoing since before Meiah even got out of Maroka to travel to Argania to seek him, the Marokan calls the Harbinger or the devil of Argania. That would be alright, so now we focus on Alea’s matter for now. Sord replied.
Alea? Meiah thought to herself, since when did he become so familiar with her sister to casually call her that. She mused with an eyebrow raised.
They still have time to investigate the matter as the Dark Queen had decreed that the banquet to introduce Sord to the Nobility will be done after the crimes were solved and Alea exonerated.
In another conference with Sere, Sord and the other two Princesses read through the investigation reports from the Civil guards statements and findings of the Detectives that were working the case, though brilliant as they were, they were still at a loss who the culprits and motives were. Sere poured over the documents and concluded that they needed to see the crime scenes themselves.
Sere outlines her capabilities that may be able to solve the crime like Divination magic she had studied, but seemed would not be enough if the perpetrators knew that such methods would be used, it is well known that Marokan city detectives heavily use Divination magic as well as their sharp deductive reasoning.
Sord was stunned to learn that Maroka employs such people in solving crimes, he believed that even the Arganian Empire does not have any equivalent of a Detective, perhaps the closest were the so called Inquisitors. Sere however said that if the criminals were aware of it as thy most probably are, would take measures to counter act the investigators skills. She however, said she may be able to do something, she needs to study for a few days on a subject that she had put off learning. She asked for a few days to prepare.
In the meanwhile, Sord and Meiah needed to head over the Civil Guard headquarters to speak to the senior detective to get some more information and asked to preserve the crime scene a little longer. Alea wanted to come but still had some duties to finish up in her own headquarters. He was the kind that leads her men by example, in a hand’s on manner. Thus Only Sord and Meiah would go.
Sere now secluded in her library, begin to study and unravel the subject she mentioned, it goes beyond the concept of magic and reality. She held off her pursuit of the craft as it should’ve been the best and most challenging discipline she can study, she still lacked some crucial theories and information to fully understand the principle of the mysterious art.
It a version of a lesser known discipline of Chronomancy called Tempoarchana, time manipulation with magic. As the natural laws of Norewald hinders or nullifies the creation of advanced technology, the same laws hinders other forces like psionic powers, time manipulation and higher forms of physics.
Tempoarchana has limited number of functions and duration. Sere remembering her discussions with Sord on some of the strange principles of Sord’s brother Zhed, fantastic never before heard theories about time space and gravity. Even without Sord’s full understanding of Zhed’s theories, he was able to relay what he was told, and Sere was able to fill the gaps of her understanding of those theories.
The discipline would enable her to see the past of whatever object she touches, depending on the effort she will be able to see the object’s “experiences” however, and it takes complete concentration and consumes a vast amount of magical energy from the caster. The texts however did not state if the spell will work on the once living beings. No materials Sere knows, offered an indication of it. But going back to all of her studies, it should theoretically be possible.
An excitement had built within her, she weighs the pros and cons of starting a pioneering experiment, if successful, she could be forever be added to the annals of arcane texts and be honored for all eternity. On the other hand, there are unknown consequences that could potentially end her and her companions. She committed in learning the spell, she will just notify her companions about the dangers of the magic.
Meanwhile, Sord and Meiah once again headed out incognito, Sord looking uncomfortable in his Marokan clothes, sporting an ornate ensemble consisting of a Top-hat, a crisp white shit under a vest and Jacket and a long coat, a straight long pants and a very polished shoe with gaiters.
His wild hair was now slick back and braided, bound with ribbons and he wears a dark tinted glasses which were in fashion. To complete the ensemble, he had a cane like most Marokan citizens would carry, it also doubles as weapon as it did hide a thin sword within. A weapon he’s not so used to as he deemed it too light for him, he imagined though that it should be wickedly fast in a duel.
Even with his awkwardness and uncomfortable look, Meiah greatly admired Sord’s looks and how he carried himself in their native dress. She complemented him.
Why Sord, you look handsome in proper Marokan gentlemen’s dress, I’m not sure how I can chase away all those ladies that’ll take fancy of you. Meiah said playfully. Sord in the meanwhile, looked a bit stiff, responded.
Thank you milady, I am glad to hear that, I just hope I really look like what you describe and not how I actually feel in these clothes, they’re a bit restrictive. Meiah dismissed it and said that he’ll get used to it. Meiah opted to dress less opulently and chose a much “simpler” design, which is still very ornate, a dark purple dress, consisting of a subtlety floral chemise under a laced bodice, a balloon skirt, high heeled shoes and a small veiled hat. She also sported a sword-cane.
It was almost winter in Maroka and the dress was appropriate for the weather, what air was getting chilly. As they walk the streets going to the Civil Guard Headquarters, they pass numerous shops which Sord could not help but admire the wares they sold, their senses were filled with a myriad if aromas, freshly baked bread from the local bakeries, roasted nuts and various other food for sale in the city which was abuzz with activity.
Meiah hooked her right arm into his left which Sord held firm. So you won’t get lost again, Meiah chided as she patted his hands. Sord could only chuckle awkwardly as he apologizes for the previous times he lost direction in the city. But it was just obvious that she just wanted to be close to him, she immersed herself in his fragrance, as she gifted him a bottle of a very expensive perfume, not too strong as his senses were a bit sensitive, so she chose a subtle fragrance for him.
Sord did not sense anyone following them, he thought perhaps they actually blended in. Had they took the Imperial coaches, they would sure to be noticed, it took a while but he did get to enjoy the city vistas again. Luckily, the building wasn’t far from the Onyx Palace. Arriving at the headquarters, there were only two civil guards posted at the front of the main entrance.
The grand building towers over them, a square structure but intricately ornate in the same gothic like architecture consistent with most of the building designs in Negral. They went up a flight of stairs and passed through between giant columns and the grand entrance. There is some sort of a directory but they did not bother to read as Meiah knows the place well and headed straight to the office of the senior investigator.
Before one could reach the office, you would go through his secretary, upon seeing the couple, the secretary greeted them looking at Sord. Greeting’s citizens, do you have an appointment with the senior inspector? Meiah lifted her veil and spoke on Sord’s behalf.
I believe we do not, but I was hoping to see him anyway, but discreetly, I hope you understand this is an unofficial visit, she said with a smile. The secretary realized who Meiah was, though shocked, the secretary knew that the third princess were in disguise and just responded that she’ll see what she can do and got up her desk and went straight to the senior inspector’s office.
Moments later, the secretary got back and said that the senior inspector will see them now and directed the pair through the office door.
The secretary did not tell the senior inspector who were the guests and initially tried to say he’s not available as he’s deep in paperwork that’s piled up in his desk. The pair entered the office. The senior inspector, a distinguished looking gentleman looking advanced in his years, with a receding hairline and greying hear. He wears a normal gentlemen’s dress but has a red sash under his coat signifying his badge. Slightly portly and with a gruff voice greeted the expected guests.
Hello hello, please sit sit! Motioning them to the two couches flaking his bureau, he clears some mounds of paperwork and affixed his glasses. As he sat with a grunt, he addressed his visitors.
Alright, I am Chief inspector Morley at your service, now what can I do for you young people? As Sord sank in the soft leather bound couch, marveling of its comfort, he could not help but utter in surprise. This is a nice chair. Inspector Morley was about to light his pipe for a smoke.
Meiah on the other hand, took off her hat and veil and looked at the senior inspector as her smile left her lips. That moment the elder gentleman realized who was before him. He inwardly cursed his secretary for not telling him that one of the Princesses was there to see him. He was taken aback as there were no announcements of the visit today, there was a communique from the palace but it was an order for cooperation with another princess the second princess Sere.
The inspector quickly slid the pipe into his drawer and stood up to formally salute the princes. Your highness, this is indeed and unexpected honor! He exclaimed then continues. How may I serve you your imperial highness? Did you come alone? He said in horror.
Meiah motioned the inspector to sit down. Please sit down inspector, I did not come alone, we came here today to discuss these appalling murders.
Sweat beaded down Morley’s cheeks as he replies. I assure you your highness that we are doing everything we can to catch those perpetrators and bring them to justice, I know progress was slow but the good news is that we still cannot find a shred of evidence that her Imperial highness’s Genna is involved, I have even asked the best detective from the outer district to help us, detective Jack Dereck. He’s unorthodox but a very effective investigator.
Meiah heard of the name before, trying to recall the name she remembers reports of a brilliant but rowdy detective that one picked a fight with her adjutant, Janus some years back. I remember a man called Jack Dereck, isn’t he the constable that we had thrown into out brig from attacking my men? Inspector Morley stuttered a bit.
Yes yes that’s him, he was drunk as I recalled, a handful but I assure you your highness, he’s a proper detective and his insights are always spot on, that’s why he’s currently assigned to the outer district to catch the scums at the slums there.
Meiah stopped the inspector before he goes any further as they have a different purpose in coming to him. Meiah explains. I apologize to cut you off head inspector, but our reason of coming here is to inform you that we will do our own investigation and we humbly request to preserve the crime scene for us, until we’re done, Please put some more civil guards as soon as possible we will come inspect the site in a few days. Meiah’s eyes narrows, to emphasize her seriousness. Request is putting it mildly you understand? My sister and our family’s honor is as stake.
Of course your Imperial highness it will be done. Morley responded stiffly. Very good head Inspector, then we shall take our leave. Soon as the door shuts as they left, the Senior Inspector slowly sank into his chair sighing, that’s Senior Inspector not head inspector. He yells for her secretary to come in.
One the secretary came in, Morley asked if the guests had left. Are they gone? He asked, the secretary looked back and confirm that nodded. Why did not tell me that the third princess was here? Anyway, summon Jack here as soon as possible and tell chief Ashmore to post more lads at those crime scenes.
The secretary thought for a moment and asked of would all three sites be guarded, as the Civil guards had barely enough patrolling the streets, she noted that chief Ashmore was asking for more recruits previously. Morley wiped the sweat off his brows, thinking perhaps it was the wrong time to stonewall the chief of the civil guards, as head of the civil peace keeping ministry, he’s responsible for allocating funds for new recruits.
Just tell Ashmore to post more guards now and I will get him more men. I’ll be dammed that this ministry be shamed before I retire, I will have those criminals caught mark my words. So I want Jack here in my office today! As he bang his desk for emphasis. The secretary made the proper arrangement.
A few hours later, a lone figure sat on the secretary’s desk trying to flirt with the stoic woman, with predictable results. The Senior Inspector had just came in and motions the man to enter with him. As the door shuts, Morley sat in his chair and is evident that most of the paperwork had not been touch after the meeting with the Princess. The man sat in one of the couches and remarked how comfortable those were.
The man was Detective Jack Dereck, dressed in the typical Marokan fashion, still a middle aged man with a messy hair usually hidden by his hat, unshaven and had visible scars in his face, scars that can easily be removed by divine magic but chose to leave those to seemingly emphasize his rough nature. It’s part of his disguise when deep in the slums, mingling with the criminals therein.
Senior Inspector lights his pipe and took a long draw and exhales an ample amount of smoke, He stood up and opened a window to expel the acrid smoke and let the chill fall air enter, and a light breeze blew in. Morley turned to Jack.
I know we don’t usually see eye to eye Jack, but I know you’re a good detective and one of the damn best we have for now. So I’m pulling you out of the muck and help the Palace by solving these murders. Jack looking at the official under his hat, sighed and replied.
One of the best? I AM the best you have chief. But you can’t pull me out like that when I’m so close to catching the masterminds, I know that Mercer and Mayall are the ones running the underground show and I am about to get proof! I will catch them red handed, I just need a little more time.
Morley shook his head and replied. I will have Moskin take over your case, you need you here in central to help out, the royals are involved we cannot afford to sit on our hands and look like fools while those criminals smear the name of Princess Genna. I know you want revenge for Mackey but this case takes priority, we ran out of time, the princesses are now investigating.
Jack sneered at the thought of a princess playing detective. What are they supposed to accomplish? Look, I don’t have time to compete with amateurs, just give me a few more days I’ll have Adonn and Mayall in chains for their crimes. Those princesses will run a brick wall and be stumped, they’re not going anywhere, I can then solve that case AFTER I’m done with the cartels. The Senior Inspector banged his fist onto his heavy bureau, almost turning red.
Look Jack, we already ran out of time, I’ve left you to your own devices long enough but now THIS is your chance to do something more meaningful, don’t make me fire you for insubordination Jack, I am assigning Moskin to the cartel case and you WILL take on this case or so help me Jack.
Jack stood up and responded to his leader. You know Moskin will be way over his head right? Don’t go crying to me if things becomes bloody, the underground is nothing to sneeze at, it gets rough real fast and those that can’t keep up eats it you hear, if he goes, his blood is in your hands!.
I’ll take that chance Jack, those syndicates are nothing compared to the Obsidian Throne, I’d rather dish it out with your so called cartel than face the Queen in failure, now go out and get the case file copies outside. I won’t take failure Jack, you hear? If you succeed in this case, I promise you all the support you need IF I reinstate you back to the slums you love so much, that is, provided that Moskin doesn’t solve the case for you.
Before leaving the office, Jack left his final words to the Senior Inspector. I know Moskin will do his best, but he’s never going to solve it, he’s not too tainted for it, unlike me, already deep in the mire, only I can crack it, I’ll count on your promised help chief after I’m done with this, I’ll come to collect.
Jacks closes the door behind him, one again, Senior Inspector Morley left to his lonesome, as the light of the setting sun filter through the stained glass windows as if echoing the fears of the Senior inspector’s prospect on his career. I did all I can, I’m just hoping that this goes our way.
Jack left the headquarters of the Civil Guards, waiting for his coach to arrive. He tried his best to focus on his new case but still unsettled with the fact that his previous case, one he’s invested his time and efforts and it that case fails, his and his friend Mackey or detective Ceryll Maccullough who was murdered while working the case.
In his mind, if he gets fired he will no longer be able to pursue the criminals that killed his friend and lose the chance to bring the leaders of the underground. He needs to focus for now to get shut down the amateurs playing detective. He needed to go deep in the underworld to get information. He’s got all he needs, the case file, his talents and his underground contacts.
First he needed to talk to his snitch in the central districts, a shady goblin grafter named Nelly the nose. Named so not because there’s anything going on with his proboscis, but he’s the premier information broker in central district, the one that “knows” everything.
He just knew where to get a hold of the goblin. Jack went to a small perfume shop in the middle of Markell Street. It’s a popular perfumery frequented by nobles and had built a reputation on acquiring the most exotic scents in the dominion. Is prices were just about out of reach of the common folks and quite popular with gents courting the ladies, they often gift the ladies instead of a diamond ring or to complement it, they will buy a bottle of perfume from this shop.
Jack found himself standing in a small but high class looking establishment named Astral Garden. He waited till the last customer left then entered. He closed the door and flipped the sign indicating the store were closed, a couple was going to enter after him but he yelled at them saying that the shop’s closed for the day. Soon he reached the counter. A startled elderly Goblin stared back at Jack. With a scowl and bared tooth grin, he greeted the detective.
Well well, Jackey boy, still alive I see, what bring you here at my fine establishment Nelly growled. Jack leaned on the counter and took off his hat.
Good to see you too Nelly the Nose. What? Have you lost your touch? You should know why I’m here, if you don’t, then I’m sorely disappointed.
The goblin growled back. Don’t call me that! I hate that name. Nelly just Nelly! Don’t test me Jack, your favors are about to run out.
Jack retorts. I always wondered why you took a girl’s name, Nelly. As for favors running out, as brilliant as you can get information, you do have a short memory, shall I remind you on why a person like you got to have such a posh livelihood in the first place? Or how I looked the other way when you grifted the nobles all these years? I’ll have you know they are still looking for those that separated them with their money and that they are a really, really sore bunch, I bet someone can get an Astronomical amount of money if that someone snitches you to Marques Dela Fleur, No?
The goblin snorts. Fine, fine. But I’ll have you know, just because I like this place does not mean I can’t live without it. A little bird told me that your just got chewed out by Morley, I don’t want to disappoint you Jackey boy, and I sympathize with you for being hooked into these murders. I can’t snitch on the players on this one Jackey boy I can only point you to the right direction, and you’re in luck.
Jack took out his handkerchief and wiped the sweat off his brow, and asked. Lucky? How so? The goblin just chuckled and replied.
You know there are more guards posted in the crime scene, sealed shut. You know it’s impossible to put a snitch inside the palace, zone of truth gets them one hundred percent, but the letters that goes in and out can be spied upon you see. One of them from the Dark Queen herself sent to your chief, it says the princesses will play detectives. The goblin continues, Put two and two together and you can already guess that they will be there soon to snoop around, you’re not even needed there. Jack annoyed, replied. That I know already, tell me something I don’t.
The goblin laughed and responded. But you did not know that the third princess always has this lad with her in tow, an Arganian boy. The Hand of light wants that lad and they plan on snatching him right under her nose and under yours too had I not told you. Jack was taken aback, the Hand of light, he had heard of that group.
Now you got me confused Nelly, the hand of light, that bunch of clowns? They‘re kids with flights of fancy, screaming more freedom for their already rich daddies to get more business. What can they do?
The goblin shook his head. No, no, no you got them all wrong Jackey boy, have you heard from them for a while now? Jack said he didn’t believe so, neither anyone else for that matter, most believed that the movement just died, sputtered out on their own.
Nelly laughed hard at the notion and continued to explain. Jackey boy, I think you know the old adage that parents does not worry about noisy kids, it’s that when they go silent is the time to worry as they are usually up to no good. Well these kids are now planning a big one, a revolt Jackey boy, they found a mysterious backer that gave them serous money and muscles, they planning to get the kid that’s with the Third Princess, All you gotta do is follow then when they grab em, right?
With a serious scowl, Jack left without another word, he flipped the sign back to open as he left the shop, an indication that he’ll leave Nelly the Nose alone for now. Jack is trying to connect the Arganian to the Hand of light, what do they want with him, and he ponders maybe perhaps the syndicate are connected to these murders, a possibility he didn’t thought of.
Jack hurriedly went back to the Civil Guard Headquarters, straight to the archives. The archivist was an old acquaintance of his, one that greatly admired him. Jack asked for all the records they had about the Hand of light. In a short while he had all the files, it was kind of thin, he found a records and portraits of the members that were arrested by the Civil Guards a couple years ago for disturbing the public peace. He know most of the lads in the files and their family backgrounds.
Indeed all of them were sons and daughters of prominent merchants and merchant guild members. The hand of light protested Marokan laws that severely limits the business owners’ rights to expand and the banning of the creation of a “cooperation” between the businesses, they wanted an organization outside the trading guilds which are essentially controlled by the Dominion, they wanted a Cartel or Syndicate that can trade without restriction.
Jack took quick notes and handed back the files to the archivist and wished him luck on his job. His first task is to talk to the Arganian, find out how he’s relevant to the Hand of light or to the Princess for that matter. He’s unsure if he can get some sort of appointment as no one ever gets an audience with any of the princesses in the palace, his best bet was to go directly to their offices, but where is event Princess Meiah’s office? He asked himself. He knew that Princess Genna has an office in the north western district and Princess Severinne does not have any official function or office.
He figured that if he’s indeed detective worth his salt, he can find out where. So he went directly to the southern gate, where the Marokan knights responsible for the Maroka – Molokkai border patrol garrisons. He did not relish in going there as he had a bit of history with one of the knights there. He went there anyway taking his chances, he seemed to have been blessed with good luck all his career. So the guy he had a spat with years ago may not be there now, may have been killed in action of reassigned to another regimen.
Once his coach dropped him off the south command garrison, he identified himself and asked if it were possible to speak to the Princess that commanded the regiment. One of the knights said that the Princess is at the palace since she arrived from her trip to Argania and there were no notice when she would resume her duties. For now the Knight Commander, her Adjutant was in command. Jacked asked for an audience. He was led to the Adjutant’s office.
Please wait here Detective, the Knight Commander is doing his daily drills, He’ll be here shorty, and the female knight turned and left him alone in the Spartan office.
Soon the Knight Commander got back into his office after a rigorous sparring session with his troops. Still wiping the sweat off his face and body, apologized for his appearance. Tall and imposing figure greeted the detective, bulging muscles and a towering form, his handsome face and blonde hair greeted him, and he recognize the face, turns out his luck may have ran out.
Chapter 19:

Janus introduced himself. I am Lord Commander Janus, Adjutant of the third Princess Anameiah um detective…
Detective Jack Dereck, working on a case, a rash of murders in central district. Her casually responded, he knew that the knight commander in front of him was the same lad he had an altercation a couple years back, he was a wet behind the ear knight when he first saw him, he was drunk at the time and had just lost a good friend. The rowdy new knights just stepped out of the tavern and bumped into him prompting him to reprimand them verbally, as he thought them to be haughty.
The young ones knights did not take kindly of his words and a melee ensued, Jack held his own against the younger knights till a tall upstart challenged him, the knight was banged up good but Jack ultimately lost, then the Princess came and had him arrested and thrown into the military brig. To his memory, he was certain the knight before his was the one he bloodied that night.
He expressed that he wanted an audience with the princess as he was going to work with her in the case and wanted to have a chat with her and if possible, with the Arganian with her. The Adjutant responded with a smile.
Ah yes the Arganian, lovely chap, quite agreeable too, but you’re out of luck my old chap, they are sequestered at the palace until further notice, no one can get in I’m afraid not even me, this whole murder you’re working on is quite the scare for the citizens, tarnished the reputation of her Imperial highness Princess Genna. Tended to tighten the security with all that shenanigans.
Jack sighed and replied. Well then that’s too bad. I guess I’ll get going then, but before I leave, do you still remember me? Back in the alley about two years ago?
Janus laughed at the question. Of course I do old boy, how can I forget, it was a glorious fisticuff, you went through my men, I had to stop you before you killed anyone, you were a maniac that night. Jack just smiled and asked him if he wasn’t sore at him for giving him a bloody nose and then some.
Sore? Not at the least, I did knocked you out that time and even felt sorry for you that you had to be locked up in the brig for a few days. But it was water under the bridge, perhaps you would have defeated me had you not fought with my comrades first, if you are bothered by it I can give you a rematch perhaps? You know, to have closure?
Jack raised an eyebrow and gave the Lord commander a once over, Jack was by no means out of shape, he can dish it out with the best brawlers in the underground scene, sure he can fight dirty but against a warrior that fights constantly, he doubts he can prevail against this young man, who changed quite a lot over the last time he tangled with him.
No lad, I’m good, I was just worried that you may have still some bone to pick with me, that’s all. Janus slapped him on the back and laughed saying that it was not an issue to him, he said that he admired the detective for his courage, not everyone was willing to fight a bunch of knights on their own. With that he took his leave, pondering his next move.
Jack knew that sleep would evade him for the next few days. Staking out the crime scenes became his focus, hoping to catch a glimpse of the princess and her companion. Contacting his informants was pointless now; he had all the necessary information. It was time for legwork.
It was often when they weren't actively searching that the most significant breakthroughs occurred. While lingering at one of the crime scenes, he picked up on some intriguing gossip. A merchant's son was overheard bragging about how his parents would profit once the Dominion's restrictions were lifted. He mentioned an "order" that aimed to liberate merchants from unfair constraints, attributing support to the Hand of Light and a guild member named Mayall.
For a detective, gossip could be a decent lead. As the old saying goes, where there's smoke, there's fire. This development hinted at a connection to his old case, as he had suspected. Retirement had been on his mind after solving the cartel case. He had saved enough money to settle down in Fammir, on the eastern fringes of the Dominion, away from Negral. A simple life on a provincial wheat farm was his vision.
Haunted by the grim sights of his profession, Jack yearned to escape his sordid past. He firmly believed that even within a seemingly good society, a darker side always existed. Evil, he thought, could never be eradicated; it evolved and adapted. Jack knew that even heroes could become villains if they survived long enough. He saw himself as no saint, having done reprehensible things in the name of justice. He considered himself a monster, unworthy of mingling with the virtuous people of Negral. In Fammir, far from the Obsidian throne's influence, he hoped to find peace and perhaps love. The ladies of Fammir, he'd heard, were beautiful, independent, yet holding onto traditional values. Jack pictured himself on a wheat farm, a loving spouse by his side. But for now, his dangerous work took precedence.
Meanwhile, deep beneath Negral's streets, zealots of the Hand of Light gathered. These revolutionaries saw themselves as freedom fighters against the Dark Queen's totalitarian rule. The absence of their leaders was evident, and impatience brewed among these younger factions. They aimed to sow chaos and confusion, not sharing the patience of their senior members.
One individual stood out—an eloquent orator who addressed the cabal with passion. His speech focused on the youth taking control of their destiny, claiming they held the future's brightness and hope. He urged them to seize change with their own hands, dismissing their elders as ineffectual politickers. His words were met with roaring approval, as all present aligned with this charismatic young man, Vincecarlo Eietti, son of the Hand of Light's enigmatic founder, Marlo Eitti. Amid the cheers, a member hesitantly asked about the Hand's plan's progress.
Vincecarlo responded, explaining that since their initial plans were foiled, they would target someone precious to the devilspawn princess—the Arganian she had brought with her. They intended to torture and kill him, pinning the blame on the first Princess Genna. This move would ignite conflict between the princesses, eventually pushing their leaders to act.
Unbeknownst to them, their leader and Adonn Mercer had already set events in motion. The impulsive actions of the youth could jeopardize the Hand of Light's overarching strategy.
Back in the palace, an uneasy calm settled as night fell. Sord, lost in thought, grappled with doubt about his ability to fulfill the promises he'd made to Meiah. His exposure to Maroka, its people, and her family made him question whether he could truly achieve his goals. Uncomfortable with being thrust into the political fray, he wondered if his aversion to the limelight could be overcome.
In moments of turmoil, Sord turned to his flute to find solace. The soothing melodies helped him center his thoughts, a practice he'd adopted during his training in the Xhaou Empire. Memories of his time across the treacherous Norewaldian Ocean washed over him—bittersweet recollections of triumphs and failures.
Meiah, on her way to his room, heard the melodious sound and stood by the door, letting him finish his tune. She knew he played when deep in thought. Upon entering, she sat on his bed and informed him that Sere had completed her studies and mastered the required spell for their investigation. If all went well, they could examine the crime scenes tomorrow. She cautioned him about his anti-magic affecting Sere's ritual and advised him to keep a distance during the process.
Knowing he could suppress his power, Sord decided to heed her advice and stand back. While Meiah considered this an opportune time to confess her feelings, she was wary of Marithe's potential intrusion, which had happened before. Despite the timing seeming right, she held off.
Sord voiced his growing concern over the escalating danger and suggested having the Omnimian Armor prepared. Meiah agreed, acknowledging his cautious nature. Soon after, a knock at the door interrupted their conversation. Meiah anticipated Marithe but was surprised to find Sere instead, looking somewhat fatigued from her relentless studying. Sord greeted her, concerned about her well-being. Sere thanked him for the vital information he'd supplied, and they briefly discussed Zhed's unique perspective. As Sere left, she reminded them of the early start needed the next day.
Sord explained that Zhed was indeed an odd person, his thinking and mannerism are indeed mature for his age, had a lot of strange concepts he would tell him. Zhed was not always close to him when they were growing up and even seemed wary of him for some reason.
Not unlike their mother Xerranna that always kept Sord at arm’s length till he learned to suppress his anti-magic. Zhed grew closer to him eventually and had shared with him his strange views of the world. Zhed admitted to him that he possessed a memory of a different person from another world. Zhed explains that’s the reason he had knowledge of things unknown in Norewald.
Sere uttered out. Your brother may be a Xenos, an Otherworlder. A soul of a once living person in another world reborn here in ours. He’s becoming as interesting as you Sord. He just shrugged his shoulders and responded.
He’s indeed an interesting fellow, he’s very smart, perceptive and serious. But he’s also kind and caring. As for me, aside from making blades, these hands can only destroy, I’m not that interesting milady. Both of the princesses disagreed with the Arganian in his latter claim. Sere took her leave, opening the door on her way out, the dimply lit hallway was temporarily illuminated by the flickering light from Sord’s room, Sere reminded them that they needed an early start the next day. Meiah bade him good night and accompanied Sere on the way out.
As the doors shut behind them, Sord once again sat precariously on the window sill, only a few inches away from a sharp drop hundreds of feet down. He loves the view of his window, the dark starlit night sky, the soft glow of houses in the city below, streetlights are brightly lit. Sord resumed to play his flute, sweet, forlorn music floated in the air as lighting and thunder flashed in the horizon, he could smell the faint odor of ozone.
Somehow he still feels on edge despite the silence of the evening, a calm before the storm. Rain drops prattle in the rooftops of Negral, a slow steady stream, building in momentum, from sporadic staccato to a torrent of rain and hail. He felt the nip of the bitter cold and decided to shut the window and enjoy the warmth of the crackling flames of the opulent fireplace.
It would rain all night, the fury of the thunderstorm washed the streets of the city, and below it frantic movement of people traversing the rapidly filling sewers. The Hand of Light members had made the well-developed sewers their highway to traverse the city unnoticed. They know it like the back of their hands, numerous patrols of the civil guards and the city engineering ministry was eluded because of the hand’s deftness in the maze like underground infrastructure.
It was a highway they share with the assassin guild. And in the very moment, a figure silently walks the tunnels, a curvaceous, hooded figure cloaked in magical invisibility. The assassin leader, Narach, her work never ends, but her recent failure had earned her respite, she needed more time to plan, she underestimated the third princess who had yet again evaded death. She would have to face Adonn and his ridicule. But she knows she can reason her way and save face.
As Narach approached the heavy metal door, frame was riveted to heavy iron plates, it rusty hinges screeched and rattled as she closed it behind her. She never noticed the heavy smell of decay in the sewer, nor the warm, musty humid air in the subterranean haven. She enters the Hand of Light meeting hall, where just a day before was used by the other faction of the Hand. There she saw Adonn together with a familiar heavy set man, something always unsettles her whenever she meets the obese Mayall, who immediately gave a stiff bow taking off his hat to the lady and greeted her with the most melodious low voice.
She did not expect the presence of Lord Mayall, more so on his uncanny agility despite his stout form. She disliked surprises, but is curious to see what his role was in the grand scheme of Adonn Mercer. She inquired. “Well why did we have to meet here of all places, we could have done this in your lovely offices, no?”
With a smile but with a hint of annoyance, Adonn replied to her. “Our esteemed establishments are under scrutiny by the Civil Guards and Detective Jack Dereck, I can only speculate why” Sarcastically insinuating that her failed attempts drew too much attention now the authorities were looking for connections to it and the recent murders. Narach argues the recent murders of innocents were Adonn’s group’s doing and would not be blamed on her and the assassin’s guild. She explained that the recent “attempts” were not a committed hit but were done to probe the mark’s and companion’s capabilities.
Narach emphasized that she had always been wary of the Arganian guest, and the probing attacks proved that she was right that the Arganian was more than he seems, now that she’s been able to more or less, assess his prowess she can come up with a proper counter and response.
Adonn and Lord Mayall looked at each other before turning back their attention to Narach. Lord Mayall expressed that she may have a good point but seemed she’s I’ll prepared to deal with an unexpected talent that the princess brought in. The duo had been looking into the background of the Arganian themselves and could find nothing to support Narach’s claim. As far as they’re concerned, the Arganian is just a registered Arganian Merchant and craftsman, given that his worked is a famed one, he have not proven himself in battle.
Narach laughed at them, she had reported her findings before and attested to what her men had seen, she even saw the Arganian’s prowess firsthand and is sure, he still had not shown his full potential. She warned them that underestimating one’s enemy is pernicious. Lord Mayall, in his perpetual toothy grin, stroked his chin in thought, he had seen Narach’s report and always had the impression that it was highly exaggerated just to provide an excuse for her failure.
But ever the logical thinker, he is indeed a fool if he ignore such strong warning from a professional. Lord Mayall addressed Narach directly.
To be honest Guildmaster, I found your failure extremely unacceptable given your reputation, why even my dear fellow Adonn’s daft followers were even to amass a higher body count than your esteemed group, it is disappointing to the highest degree! Lord Mayall exclaimed while looking at Narach through his darkly tinted glasses then continued to insult and threaten the Master Assassin subtly.
We had gravely misplaced our faith in you and your organization fair lady, and might I add, our resources as well, I was livid on the news of your failure and I was here today on my own time just to see how failure looks like and I must say, failure took a guise in beauty, I had decided to eliminate you with mine own hands, to wrap these fingers around your neck and wring the life out of you. His voice rang out loud echoing in the musty aired chamber, in a melodious low toned voice filled with malevolence, while he clasped his hands together as if choking an imaginary victim, all the while sporting his signature wide grin.
Adonn was taken aback by Lord Mayall’s statements, after all, he was threatening a notorious and very capable assassin in their presence. Himself he knows he’s a capable fighter and may have a chance of going head-to-head with her but he doubts the obese companion’s combat capability, he imagined that he’ll just get a poisoned dagger in his chest in short order. He readied himself just in case Narach took offense and attacked them. Secretly readying a light crossbow from under the round table in the room and his cane sword is at the ready as well.
Narach shot a sharp glare at the plump noble’s way laughing off what she perceived caustic remarks, but she’s one that never in any occasion, underestimated anyone, if he’s willing to insult her, she thought, he must have brought something to the table that may be able to go against her, that confidence and arrogance is not just empty talk of a boastful noble, she thinks he had something to back it up. She readies a few poisoned throwing daggers behind her while her arms were crossed. She always carries a couple of smoke bombs to confuse her enemies then strike them.
Narach replied to the rotund guest, keeping her composure and cold demeanor. Think what you will, I care not, we have our own things of doing and those must be done. The contract did not specify a time of the target’s death, we simply do our due diligence and gauge our marks. Do you think you insults reaches me Lord Mayall? We never attack out clients unless they attack us first. But if you think you can get away with killing me as you describe you can try my lord, but you may lose your life if you do.
Thinking that it may dissuade the fat noble from his thoughts but he seemed more excited at her words, he stood up with an open mouthed smile looking to Adonn with glee asking if he can indeed try.
May I? May I? Adonn May I go ahead and murder her? He excitedly asked Adonn like a child asking a parent’s permission to buy candy or a puppy. Adonn laughed it off and asked him to calm down, he explained that he think Narach was serious, she’d kill him if he tried and that he did not want to lose another partner. Lord Mayall looked Narach’s direction, seemingly disappointed.
That’s too bad I really wanted to do this… Before the obese looking noble was able to finish his sentence, his chair flew back and hit the wall almost shattering in pieces. In a blink of an eye he launched himself from a sitting position and sped through the direction of the lone assassin. His action was so sudden that neither Adonn nor Narach was able to react.
Narach was leaning on one of the support pillars of the vaulted underground chamber. Her arms were crossed and her right arms had already some daggers were on her finger tips, ready for action. Narach, as an assassin had unnatural reflex, she was always seemingly relaxed but underneath, he’s like a tightly wound spring that can explode into action. But the corpulent noble’s action was above hers, perhaps she had just underestimated him due to his massive, wide stature.
In a split second, Lord Mayall was able to close a gap as long as five steps, he was able to grab Narach in her neck with his left hand, laughing maniacally, she could not believe the speed of the person that held her neck, she almost dropped her daggers, as she gagged and fight for breath, his grip is like iron and no matter how she struggled, she can’t break his grip, she knows that he could have instantly crushed her throat but did not.
After laughing for a few seconds he stopped and leaned closer to the assassin as asked her who does she thinks was stronger, him or the Arganian she feared so much. She thought that going closer to her was a fatal mistake and promptly stabbed the in the neck, however to her surprise, the daggers did not penetrate to a fatal depth and stopped just under the skin’s thickness and felt that it hit some sort of armor. The attack prompted Mayall to tighten his grip, her eyes rolled backwards as she loses consciousness, she never heard Adonn stop Mayall.
She was sure it was the end of her, her vision became dark as the life breath left her. She never had any regrets, only perhaps in subconsciously underestimating her death bringer. It was funny for her to suffer such end after a flawless reputation as a life ender herself. But then she felt the grip lighten, her breath was returning to her, albeit slow, she gasp air and grasp her throat, coughing and drawing breath. Her vision also returned. She could see Lord Mayall walking away from her seemingly to pick up his chair that was flung out apparently.
While she sat up and leaned back in the same pillar she was prior, she see the obese noble take his seat, daggers still stuck near the base of his neck. Those were coated with a fast acting poison that even a scratch would kill a victim in seconds, no one lasted ten seconds, no matter how large a person is. But here he was, the smiling lord, sitting as if nothing happened. He just brushed off the daggers as if they were just pesky gnats that landed on him.
It took a few minutes before Narach was able to recover, shook with what happened to her. Mayall asked her again, who did she though was stronger, him or the Arganian. Adonn looking a bit shocked as well, gave her the impression that he too never planned what the corpulent noble did. Mayall chided her.
What’s the matter Guildmaster? Cat got your tongue? Yes I am strong! I am invincible! Not even your poison can kill me. I would have killed that so called Arganian myself, but it is unfashionable for one such as me to do the dirty work. You were wary of him, that’s a good decision, I’ll give you that. That’s the reason you’re still breathing but if you cannot remove him from the playing field, from our board then we have no choice but to do your job for you!
Murderous rage filled Narach as she gets up, but she knew Mayall let her live, she could not have anticipated her swift defeat in the hands of the plump noble. She did not know the extent of damage she took but assessed that she’s still fine. Dusting herself off, she retrieved her daggers and composed herself, looking back at the grinning noble as she sheathed her weapons, she reiterated her commitment in fulfilling her contracts.
Narach put on her hood then vanished from their sight. The metal doors slams shut behind her, leaving the other conspirators to themselves. Adonn nervously looked to Lord Mayall, as a few beads of sweat rolls of his forehead to his cheeks.
I don’t think it was a good idea to vex the assassin guildmaster, whatever power you hold Mayall, there’s a reason they’re the oldest organization here in Negral, the ONLY assassin’s guild, they built their kingdom upon the corpses of their enemies. Don’t be so complacent that they can’t touch you. Mayall looked back to Adonn as he stood up and put on his tall hat, noticeably didn’t even broke a sweat after all the action he took, tipping his hat to Adonn as he leaves the room with his parting words.
My dear fellow, by the time I am done with the imperial family, the wrath of the murderers are the least of your problems, I shall see the palace burn to the ground and anyone in my path shall be crushed in the storm that I am about to unleash, it’s going to be a new age my dear fellow entrepreneur, if you wish to stand by my side in this new era do not stand in my way and ye might see a wonderful new world cleansed with our might and fire, the Age of Mayall Arms.
Chapter 20:
Early hours of the morning, the city is just rising, shop keeps were now opening their stores, and the smell of freshly baked bread fills the crisp morning air. It was a pleasant scene contrasted by the bleak crime scenes that are well guarded by the civil guards. The houses were modest commoner’s abode, the finely wrought wares and floors are sullied with blood, splattered about and pooled on the smooth stone floors. The victims were long gone, it is customary for the dead to be cremated and hence, not even a reasonably high ranked cleric would be able to speak with the dead.
Only the objects in the domicile and the abode themselves now stands as witness to the gruesome crimes. Sord, Meiah and Sere headed over to the first crime scene. Sord had opted to dress in his simple native clothes. Comfortable with it but it does attract some attention from the locals, his unusually plain simple form, a light grey tunic wide belted trousers tucked into a tall boots, adorned with number of straps and buckles, working clothes.
The princesses’ clothes were simple to the eyes of the common Marokan, but still a far cry in term of “plainness” compared to the Arganian fashion. They approached the scene and the guards almost stopped them but immediately recognized the two royals and let them pass. An investigator was already waiting for them inside to give them a brief description of that they found and the theories on what transpired in the victim’s home.
The home was a modest two stories stone house, the Patriarch worked as a foreman in one of the many companies in Negral, as far as the investigators were concerned, nothing was noteworthy of the father of the house, nothing to suggest he had any enemies. He was a diligent and fair foreman and no threats were known to have been issued by anyone.
The other victims were his wife and two children. They were a young couple and had just started their lives together. An uninteresting plain family that was somehow became the subject of a brutal murder, a most tragic massacre. The investigator showed the trio where the victims were found and all of them were killed in a similar fashion. Their throats were cut so severely that the children were almost decapitated.
The parents were most likely killed first. All the victims were tied up. Their wrist and feet were bound by ropes and all were blindfolded. From the position of the bodies, they were lined up facing the family couch, back turned against the fireplace. They were most likely held in a kneeling position and judging from the many boot prints there were more than half a dozen suspects there. Nothing was deemed stolen according to the investigator.
The crime happened most likely during the middle of the night, the doors were picked open with deft hands, the victims were all in their night gowns were discovered not for a few days after none of them showed up for work or schools. The lack of witnesses were the biggest problem. All the night workers were interviewed and no meaningful information were gained. The investigation came to a wall, a dead end.
Princess focused on her task ahead, she thanked the detective and dismissed him. She asked for Sord to step out as well as she was about to do the ritual she practiced and asked Princess Meiah to assist her. Sord knowing that he can indeed impede the progression of the spell told them that he’ll just be exploring the market and be back in a few minutes. He reminded Meiah that if anything happens she should use the Omnimian Armor immediately. She expressed that the spell only affects Sere and the area was secured by the numerous civil guards, they should be safe enough.
Sere prepared the needed materials, spell components, some were mundane and most were extremely expensive. The spell alone can be cast in a minute but preparing for the ritual takes time as the glyphs and magic circle would have to be precise. The number of components needed were substantial as the event that took place happened almost a week ago. The spell taps in the essence of time itself, magic would be used to see the past events of inanimate objects by winding back the time, rolling it back by divination magic. The spell is uncommon and very expensive. But the caster will be able to “See” the events of the past as if it were witnessed firsthand by the caster.
Meanwhile Sord went out to the Shops district, he wanted to see what things he could buy. Money were no longer exchanged in the form of coinage, but of course it was still used but people almost never touch it. Instead a system in place were used a sort of credit system much like paper currency. A magical device, a small red colored oval stone, flat on the back and convex in the front. They call this a shackle. Instead of carrying a bag of coins or a purse, they transfer coins by doing a “transaction” where one can be the receiver or payer without holding the coins nor any encumbrance.
Sord window shopped for a while, he wanted to see a store for arms and armor and asked some locals directions, Sord eventually came to a large emporium. The Jeft & Mayall Trading Co. The emporium carried a myriad of wares, some imported from as far as the southern end of the continent. A wonderful selection of the practical, exotic and artful. The place catered from the most common to nobility.
Sord briefly scanned the offerings, marveled at some of the gadgets and doohickeys, intricate clockwork devices. The multi-level store seemed to indeed carry everything as advertised outside. However, even before he entered the store, a few pairs of eyes were already fixated on him, followed him till the emporium but did not enter after him. Inside the lavish store, another pair of eye happened to catch sight of the wandering Arganian, one looking through a pair of dark tinted, round spectacles.
It was not hard to spot the oddly dressed Arganian, he stuck out like a sore thumb, garnered curious looks from the other patrons. Sord eventually meandered to the arms section of the shop. As an avid collector of weapons and armors, he excitedly browsed the wares, occasionally asking assistance from the shop keeps. He eventually settled on five fine examples of swords of Marokan manufacture. A typical sword of the dominion is a longsword, highly ornate and is of high quality. Each blade before him were unique with a quality of its own, he was hard pressed to choose just one or two.
Sord didn’t realized that he was taking much time deciding what to buy, he seemingly failed to notice that the employee that was assisting him, a well-dressed young lady, was replaced by someone else. The tall figure loomed over the Arganian who seemed deep in thought, pondering in front of a selection of fine blades.
You have a keen eye my good man! The corpulent figure spoke. And without looking up Sord was still seemingly indecisive and can only answer casually.
They are all good swords, well-wrought and from a good steel as well. He finally looked up at the towering figure before him, a fat gentleman, well dressed, smiling at him behind dark glasses. Sord was almost taken aback at the sight of the strange man before him, for Sord, a few things caught his attention, his keen smell detected something amiss in the person’s scent, something hiding behind the pungent perfume he was wearing, it was familiar but can’t actually put a finger on it, his hearing also reports of a subtle but strange rhythmic ticking, similar to a clock.
Noticing the Arganian’s focus that shifted from the wares to himself, the figure decided to introduce himself.
Welcome to my emporium, I am Lord Preston Mayall. And I own this establishment, May I ask my good sir if are you a transient? Your manner of dress is… unusual, which game me the impression that you are a foreigner. Mayall said in his usual booming voice as he took an exaggerated bow.
Sord ponders the question for a bit, weighing if it’s condescending or not before he replied.
It’s an honor milord, my name is Sord of Swamburgh, as for being a transient, I can’t tell yet as it may still be decided in a few weeks, my fate is decided the Queen. Mayall’s eyes brightened when he heard him. For Mayall, the name is as plain and common as his garb, in his mind a typical Arganian which equated to a nobody.
Ah! You must be the rumored Arganian, which her Imperial highness Anameiah had invited, you had made quite a stir my good sir, why, you are the talk of the town! Please allow me to show you my private collection of swords, walk this way my good sir. Mayall led Sord away from his initial selection of weapons and ushered him to another part of the emporium.
As they pass other customers, many of whom, greeted the portly nobleman, which he greeted in return. It was clear to Sord that this was an important figure, at least in the city. Reaching the exclusive part of the immense store, they were greeted by rows of glass shelves, showcasing the finest swords of the Dominion, as well as some weapons from other parts of the continent which Mayall presented to the Arganian with pride.
These are the finest in the realm, and since you are a guest of our princess, I grant you the privilege of selecting from these prime collection. Mayall declared while patting Sord on the back and sweeping his other arm to beckon the young man to look at his extensive collection of weaponry. Mayall indeed had some ulterior motive in isolating the young man, he aimed to assess the true nature of him with his discerning eyes.
He took one item in a display case, a beautifully wrought longsword, it measured around four and a half feet, long hilt almost a foot long, though the weapon lacked the usual high ornamentation of the Marokan style, however the method of manufacture was remarkable, the curves and edges were well polished and sharp as if it were machine, almost impossible to be done by hands of a blacksmith.
Mayall handed the weapon to Sord, carefully presenting it with both hands and declared. “This is one of my finest in my collection! I’m sure you recognize it as a weapon manufactured in your home empire. Do you know much about that my boy?” Sord took the weapon and looked it over and replied to Mayall.
Yes, of course I know of this, I made this not one year ago, this was part of an order of a dozen or so destined for the capital Akilla. However this this ended this far north?
Mayall was surprised of the bold claim of the youth, to his eyes, Sord could not have been more than past his seventeenth summer, yet he claimed to be the maker of one of the keenest blade he had, rivaling the master craftsmen of Maroka, perhaps besting them in terms of the quality of the blade which was as keen as well as it’s durable. He did not know what to make of the youth if he was lying to impress him or just a foolish braggart taking credit of an actual master smith.
But one thing was for sure, he was getting annoyed with the youth more than being fascinated, but he must make sure what the boy’s truth was, clearly to Mayall, something does not ring right with the Arganian.
Oh my word! That is a bold claim mister Sord, or shall I call you Mastersmith? I won’t call you a liar to your face my boy, but can you prove that you have indeed made this marvelous weapon?
Sord looked at the towering Mayall, without indignation nor offense and proceeded to point out the proof mark on the base of the blade, the so called forte, on both sides. Arganian law required all crown registered smiths to mark their creations hence Sord did with all his work. In Argania, the Greymalkin forge mark was well sought after due to its high quality for one and the sharpness of the proof mark is another, forgeries did eventually came out done by greedy merchants exploiting the demand for his work.
However the very quality of the work and the clear markings made it difficult to imitate his work. Many have tried and failed to copy his work.
As Sord points out the mark, he then proceeded to produce an odd looking pendant, it was his stamp, his proof mark. Sord handed the sword and stamp to Mayall, which Mayall proceeded to compare the mark to the stamp and guided the face of it to the recessed image and it sat perfectly, it was undeniable that the stamp had indeed been the device that marked the steel. Mayall handed back to Sord his stamp.
He noticed that the metal a one that he never seen and felt before, it was incredibly dense and heavy for its size and the color was dull, lackluster. He inquired to Sord what type of metal that was and he answered that it is an alloy of his own secret manufacture and expressed that sadly, may not be able to replicate again.
Well now, never in my wildest dream would I have imagined that I will be face to face with the mysterious master Smith of Argania, so then I am glad that I get to keep my prize with me for a while. So in lieu of your own work, what in my meager collection you fancy?
As if nothing happened, Sord thought for a bit and said that there were so many he wanted to get but was afraid he did not bring enough money.
Forgive my ignorance Lord Mayall, I was given this “shackle”, I was instructed on how to use it but it seems it does not work for me. I find trading without actual coins in my purse, quite troubling. Mayall looked quite puzzled but inquired a bit further.
My boy, it is quite common for newcomers to be confused at first on the manner of trade Maroka does, but I assure you that the Shackles are quite an efficient and safe method of trade, you just need to touch the stone’s face and the amount will be revealed.
Sord demonstrated what Mayall said and touched the stone and nothing happened.
Mayall thought for a while, it may be a defective stone, but that had never happened before, does it not work for non Marokans? He thought to himself. He had an idea and asked Sord to hold out the Shackle, to let it dangle on its chain. He then held his own next to it. An image then appeared on both items indicating readiness to transfer coins. However they cannot see each other’s current level of funds. Still any transactions can’t be done.
Sord apologized and said that it may be defective after all. He suspected that it maybe because of his ant-magic trait that may have hindered the shackle.
It would seem that Mayall was just facilitating a sale, assisting the Arganian. But in fact he was gauging him. He used all sorts of magic detection to find Sord’s level of magic, intent and capabilities. All were normal indicating that this boy was just an ordinary person except to the extraordinary fact that he lacked magical powers.
I am quite interested in your skills Sord, you can make a lot of money working for me you know. What say you? We can make The Mayall Company the premiere weapon maker in the realm. I can pay you handsomely and even provide your lodging and everything, even make you a citizen of the Dominion, I am quite connected, you know, what say you? Sord was quick to reply.
A generous and tempting offer milord, but I already entered into a contract with the Imperial family, lest I want to keep my head, I cannot serve two masters. You understand right.
Mayall could only shrug his shoulders and agree with the Arganian, expressing his regret, it would seem that he had suddenly lost interest in the Arganian but in fact Mayall had more reasons to keep an eye out for the Arganian after mentioning his contract with the crown. He can’t quite figure it out but he still feels that the unassuming boy was dangerous, though he’s confident he’s not threat to him, after all, he thinks he can crush the Arganian’s skull if he wanted to.
Mayall menacingly drew close to the Arganian and gave him some parting words.
Let me give you a friendly advice master smith, if you really want to keep your head attached while in Maroka, the Onyx palace is not the place you should be, make no mistake in choosing your allies.
And before he turned to leave, Mayall declared that he knows that Sord is no ordinary man, which Sord replied back that neither was Mayall. The portly noble called one of the ladies to assist Sord in his shopping and politely took his leave.
It did not escape Sord the odd movements of Mayall, something unnatural in his gestures. An unmistakable power emanating from the noble. He had the suspicion that they will meet again.
In the end, Sord was not able to make a purchase due to the malfunctioning Shackle and left the emporium empty handed, He’s sure that the sisters, the princesses were just about done with their incantations and probably needed to get back.
As Sord stepped out of the grand store, the chill air nipped at him, it was nearly noon time and he didn’t realize that he wandered far off from where the princesses were. Hoping he does not get lost on his way back. He stared towards the crime scene. However, as he nears the place, aside from the crisp autumn air, Sord was suddenly greeted by a group of young men, they were all smiles and as if familiar to him, but one of whom, suddenly put a large sack over his head while the other hurriedly shoved him into a waiting coach and sped off.
It would have been a clean grab but a pair of civil guards patrolling the streets had seen the event. But it was too late to chase after the kidnappers.
Detective Jack was observing covertly from a distance, he was about to light his pipe when he spotted Sord approaching the crime scene when a group of thugs grabbed Sord and pushed in to a waiting carriage and ran off, a few of the patrolling civil guards tried to chase after but were too late. He showed the guards his Imperial badge and asked them to notify the princesses in the crime scene that their guest were taken.
Dropping his pipe, Jack gave chase on foot. He knows the city well and with his vast experience he calculated that the carriage could only navigate to a few places in daylight, drawing from this conclusion he took a few shortcuts and praying that his well-honed instinct does not fail him.
Jack went in a few establishments, knocking some people aside, jumping over obstacles in the streets and alleys, and deftly navigating the maze-like city scape. There before the alley opened into an avenue, the same coach passed in front of him, it was running at full speed and nearly running over a few citizens. As cries of indignation and curses flew towards the escaping carriage, it almost toppled over when it turned to the right at speed.
Jack knew exactly where that wagon was headed and proceeded to pursue it via familiar alleyways. It did not matter how fast they were, as long as Jack knew their destination, he would find them easily.
As the commotion unfolded, from the start, Narach was already observing the observer, and thought that this was an extraordinary stroke of luck! The Arganian was kidnapped and the meddling detective gave chase. Which means that the Princesses were unprotected by the Arganian and were left only guarded by a handful of civil guards.
Normally Narach does not favor open combat but she could not let this opportunity go to waste, she was sure she can handle a few guardsmen then her main prey, Meiah. She just needed to bide her time for a bit, timing was everything. She knew that an opportunity to strike was about to open for her. She hoped that her hunch was right, it was time to redeem herself.
Chapter 21:
Sere had completed her preparations, laid all the spell components and drew the mystical diagrams on the flat surface of the floor. It would take total concentration for a minute or two, her gesture needed to be precise, her incantations and chants eloquent and concise. As if on cue, Meiah lit the five braziers in sequence. Smell of phosphor filled the air, its acrid smoke almost chokes them.
Sere began the incantation with simultaneous gesture, arms, legs and finger poised in a precise manner, smooth movement transitions to different poses. Arcane power wells from the weave, the source of all magic, Sere can see the writhing emanation of magic and must quickly pull at the right strings at the right moment. Once done, the glyphs on the spell circles glowed with magical power. A blinding light suddenly filled the room, an explosion of luminous power seemingly engulfed the world as time stopped.
At least for Sere. All activity was suspended in her point of view, she was able to let out a sigh of relief, the spell worked. Glowing glyphs hung in midair, before her, she knew it was a focus, a means to control the time. She knew that she needed to seize the multi-colored, gleaming symbols with both hands. Her left hand could rotate the glyph’s outer circle counter clockwise, this enable to turn back time, back so far as to the beginning of the house’s construction, rotating the ring clockwise brings the event forward till the moment the spell was cast and no further. The left hand breaks the spell.
An excitement began to build up within Sere, such power controlled within her fingertips, to manipulate time, look back on past events thought lost for all eternity, now can be reviewed at her will. She tests the power, to see what happens when she turns the outer ring of the glyph back. At first, she struggled to control it, it went back too far from the starting point. She sees what the domicile had experienced through time. There, at one random point, totally unintentional, she landed in a period where the family were just the husband and wife.
A mundane scene where they lounged around the couch, read books and ate dinner. It was too far back. She decided to move it forward incrementally and soon figured out the speed of the rotation she needed to control. For a spell, it needed a certain degree of finesse, but soon she figured out how to effectively control it.
She wound the clock forward, scenes played before Sere, watching the events of the family in fast forward fashion. She witnessed the ups and downs, celebrations and arguments, the first born child came to be, the happiness they experience. And soon thereafter, the second child was born. From then on, it seemed that the family had little to no problems, no arguments apparently. A picturesque ideal family life. They seemed so happy.
A tinge of sadness swept over Sere, realizing that the inevitable tragic end they must suffer, she almost hesitated to move the ring forward in time. She hung on to one scene in particular where the family shared a moment in the living room couch, the father and mother sitting together, the children playing at their feet, one of the few moments perhaps, that had been caught where all of them were smiling. Almost bringing Sere to tears.
Sere was never sentimental and had approached all things logically, she put on a façade of calmness, devoid of emotions, and efficient leader, a devout student of knowledge. A princess that must wear the sternness to bear her peoples pride and grief. But in this instance, face with the finality of life, the reality of one’s mortality, she finally could not admit to herself that is just part of a process. She always worked with numbers and was easy to deal with. Now the numbers had faces, she cannot bear to sweep back the tragedy with indifference.
She realized she must carry on and bear witness to the horrors of what is to come. In honor of the fallen she must seek justice, see the spell through and find out who were the culprits. Her movement became more precise and efficient. As if on command she arrived at the moment, the night of the massacre. She cannot perceive the present time, nor the people in it. For Sere, the reality, the present is the night before the tragedy. She was able to see the unfolding events, every sad details, and the extreme evil at work that night.
She burned the details in her memory, every clue, every faces, what they wore, every word that was said, every scents, every blood curdling muffled scream, every drop of tears, and the last moments of the family till their dying breath, Sere committed them to her memory. Sere wasn’t a stranger to death, she ended s few souls by her hands but never innocent ones such as the victims here. This was almost too painful to watch, a mix of emotions boiled over her, anger, grief and a sense of loss. She was being overwhelmed emotionally. She couldn’t take it anymore as she broke the spell, she knew she’d experienced enough. She had all they needed.
As Sere broke the spell, she was suddenly thrust back to reality, the present time. She can hardly move, she was weak and rapidly losing consciousness, the last thing she saw before losing her senses was Meiah getting up as if she was thrown back and now rushing to Sere’s aid. A backlash Sere realized. It hit her so hard when the spell abruptly ended, an explosion of magical energy happened. Sere had suffered the most from the spell’s backlash, but before they fully lost consciousness, Sere managed to utter the words: “I saw everything”.
Moments before that, Meiah assisted Sere in preparing for the ritual, in her perspective, after Sere cast the final spell, the glyphs glowed fiercely, Sere began to float in midair, motionless for a good while. She hears a commotion outside but ignored it, trusting the guards to take care whatever it was. She concentrated on watching Sere, waiting for the spell to conclude. Then, when the glyphs began to glow again, without warning, a brilliant explosion happened, knocking her back a few feet back.
Meiah saw how Sere dropped to the floor, looking exhausted, spent. She weakly whispered to Meiah that she saw everything. Indicating that Sere had succeeded. Before losing consciousness. She wasn’t aware of the spell’s backlash. She wanted call for help, but before she could yell, a couple of the guards came rushing in and reported that Sord was captured.
It could not have been a worse time for it. She was worried for Sord, but she knew that he can handle himself. It would be impossible in her opinion, for anyone to just grab him off the street like that unless he let them. For now she asked for transportation to take Sere back at the Palace.
But before anyone of the guards can comply, one suddenly collapsed on the ground, holding his neck, as blood gushed from a wound, his mouth began to foam as he died convulsing and gurgling with his own blood. The other guard managed to draw his sword and swung in the air, yelling for Meiah to get back, expressing that the assailant were invisible.
It was to no avail as he too succumb to a powerful poison and dropped dead on the floor. Meiah’s instinct was to cover Sere with her body. But if she would suffer the same fate as her guards, the assailant would easily kill the other princess who was helpless at the time. Meiah would have to rely on the multiple defensive enchantments on her garment.
Sure enough, an invisible hand armed with a dagger took the plunge, stabbing the third princess. As the tip of the blade touched Meiah’s cloak, a brilliant flash of light exploded sending the murderous weapon flying back from the assassin’s hand. But the explosion also dispelled any enchantments in the house. There, Meiah saw the full figure of Narach, that Assassin Leader.
Narach was surprised at first, she had just lost her weapon as well as her advantage. But she was supremely confident in her fighting skills. She knew the princess’ battle potential and is pretty sure she can best her in single combat. She was all in for the coming fight. She drew another dagger, also heavily coated with the same poison that killed Meiah’s guards. She decided to chide the princess a little bit.
As to be expected of a Marokan Princess, protected by layers of magic, all of you imperials are so afraid to die. Too bad I am here now, no magic can save you from my blades.
Narach went in for the kill as she explodes into action, lunging towards Meiah. As she flew straight for the princess, Narach aimed for her vitals, Meiah’s neck, but she was sure that even if she nicks her with her daggers, it’s going to be the end for the princess. However Meiah proved to be a hard target to hit, she was unexpectedly nimble as Meiah was able to dodge and parry her attacks.
But Narach was not without her weapons, she took out a small crossbow, an odd looking device, clearly of Gnomish design and she aimed the little weapon at Meiah, An automatic repeating crossbow, Narach pulled the trigger and the crossbow let out a stream of bolts, surely all of them were also poisoned. Still she could not hit the elusive Princess who dodged the bolts with clever acrobatic moves and used furniture for cover.
The little weapon eventually ran out of ammunition, it is deceptive as it carried way more bolts that it looked. Supremely annoyed that she was not able to kill Meiah quickly She still had one more weapon to use, but that being a weapon of last resort as the effect can may well harm her as well. Narach again chided the princess.
You surprised me little princess, you were better than expected, did you become stronger? Did your Arganian friend teach you new techniques? No matter, we have him and soon he will be dead. But do not worry, you will join him soon enough! I have a parting gift princess I hope you and your sister like it.
Narach pulled out a bulbous looking device. It was a metal sphere with studs all over its surface and a ring on its top. She began to pull on the ring, hissing sound came out as well as acrid smoke.
Meiah dared to peak and saw the device. She wasn’t sure what it was but it did resemble some sort of bomb. It was quite small but she decided not to underestimate it. The assassin was hell bent on killing her and now took direct action against her. Meiah figure that once the assassin throws the device, she would quickly duck out the front door where she’s was the nearest towards it.
There was three things Meiah needed to do and must time it perfectly less they all die. She spots the fallen guard’s halberd nearby, between her and Sere. The moment came. Narach threw the bomb towards her.
Meiah swiftly dove out of the way towards Sere, while in motion she activates her bracer as she rolls on the floor picking up the halberd. In one swift motion, she threw the halberd at Narach it missed her by a hair. But she wasn’t aiming at her.
The pole arm was hefty and it squarely struck the open door effectively closing it, in front of Narach. In slow motion, the bomb began to explode, its destructive shockwave and lethal shrapnel began to expand, and meanwhile, Meiah’s form was beginning to be engulfed in plates as the Omnimian Battle armor was deployed. Meiah, in less than a blink of an eye was encased by the incredibly durable shell. She covered Sere with her body as much as she could.
The blast was powerful, blowing out the house’s doors and window. It did not produce much fireball but it did spread out deadly shrapnel. The blast had caught Narach, shredding her nearly to a pulp, parts of her were scattered out the front of the house, mixed with debris and splinters of what remained of the door. Narach lacked the protection of what Meiah had. This was the end of the Assassin’s guild master, the notorious Narach.
Meiah on the other hand was unscathed, she assessed Sere and seemed fine, she decided to retract the armor, lest other people see her secret weapon. As expected, more of the guards came to the site. Shortly thereafter, they were brought back to the Onyx Palace, Sere was resting soundly and she needed at least a few days to recuperate. Meiah turned her attention to the matter of the kidnapped Sord.
In spite of her knowledge of his prowess, she could not help but worry about Sord. She was keen on going to her office at the south gate to get her Adjutant to assist in the search. But she was ordered by the Queen to stay put, safe behind the impenetrable walls of the palace.
The Dark Queen ordered her spymaster to take immediate action, the incident takes priority. She had the suspicion that the perpetrators of the conspiracy were connected to the kidnapping and rash of murders. She was perhaps the most worried of the kidnapping of Sord. It became somewhat of a silent national emergency. All covert agencies were abuzz with activity, something that underground community surely will notice.
Meanwhile, in the opulent private office in the commercial district, Valiant and Mercer Company. Adonn Mercer was livid. News of another failed assassination attempt on princess Meiah and the brazen daylight abduction of an imperial guest. And now the Imperial Intelligence agency are looking into multiple businesses including his and Mayall’s more closely than normal. He slams his fist into his ornate bureau so hard that various items were jarred by the violent impact.
What were those fools thinking!? What part of “covert” did they not understand? I need to contact Mayall and Eietti, this is getting out of hand.
Adonn calls for his assistant and asked him to secure all ledgers, incriminating evidence of shady dealings with the cartel and to keep them off the hands of the authorities. Then arranged he asked for a meeting with the other conspirators. The message was quick and in no time, the conspirators had met in an alternate secure location. The trio met later in the day, the atmosphere was tense due to the displeased nature of Adonn, and accusations fly as Adonn fired off his first salvo.
Gentlemen, this is a very grave matter and I want to know who planned this abduction, Lord Mayall, do you deny that the Arganian was a recent visitor of your Emporium?
The obese noble did not deny it, he however, denied having any part of the abduction, though he expressed that he did not mind if the boy disappeared, it would be foolish to do it in broad daylight, even he was not so audacious and foolish. He made a good point.
Marlo Eietti was quiet, pondering as Adonn turned his attention to the elder gentleman. Adonn asked if he knew. Marlo said that he too did not, however, he paused for a moment which was quickly caught by Adonn. Well? You claim to have no hand in it but perhaps you know something about it? Adonn inquired.
Marlo, already in his late sixties, very distinguished looking gentleman, a bit gaunt. Unlike his other companions, he’s clean shaven, head still boasts full of greying hair belies his actual age. Marlo uncomfortably shifts in his seat, still crossed legged. Looked at Adonn sharply, indicating that he’s right and answered him, choosing his words carefully.
This is just speculation, a hunch if you will. Certain members of our little cabal may have grown their own sect here, you know how young people now days, they rebel against their elders, think that they know everything. I have a feeling that, they may be involved here, so therefore, we ourselves in effect are also neck deep in this whole unfortunate and premature action.
He was right, thought he did not answer Adonn fully, leaving out the fact that he suspect that his son Vincecarlo may have something to do with the abduction. Adonn did have his suspicions of sectarianism within their ranks but dismissed the notion as just normal in most organization. However Adonn still felt that Marlo was hiding something from him which irritated him further.
The action of this impetuous members is jeopardizing their whole plan. It puzzled Adonn that Mayall seemed not all too concerned. He still had to press Marlo.
Well? Who are those punks that you’re referring to? Out with it Marlo. We have worked too hard and risked far too much for a bunch of insipid thugs ruin our plans.
Sweat beads down on Marlo’s brows and ran down to his cheeks. Taking his handkerchief from his breast pocket, wiping off his sweat.
I’ve told you, it’s just a hunch, I have no proof. But if my suspicions are correct, they can only take the Arganian to only a few select locations that we use, since it happened near the market district, it could mean that they had taken our guest below the warehouse district. But the real question is, what do we do now? Adonn slammed his palm on the center table in frustration.
That’s at the other side of town, it will take too long to go there underground, and we can’t risk travelling there on the streets in broad daylight, not with the constables eyeing our every move. Adonn regretfully cursed.
Lord Mayall interjected saying that even if they would be able to go there, it’s not guaranteed that the aforementioned rogue members were indeed the culprits, he added that it may be a different group altogether, as Lord Mayall heard, the authorities already suspected the assassin guild was behind the failed assault on the princesses, and rumor has it that Narach personally attacked them and died in the process. Its new information Adonn cursed his lack of awareness as it would have to be provided by the fat nobleman.
So, it really is a mistake underestimating the princesses, even the queen of assassins were no match to them if the information you provided is accurate.
Before Adonn could add another statement, a frantic knock on the closed doors echoed in the spacious underground hall. The doors did not open fast enough to let the flustered man outside, he seemed to be quite in a rush. He squeezed through the still ajar metal doors as their weight prevented them from swinging too fast.
As soon as the man, the elder members recognized as someone working as a messenger, fell down after passing the doors and hurriedly knelt down to hand over a piece of paper to Adonn. He quickly snatched the paper and eagerly read it. The messenger did not leave as if waiting for instructions.
Adonn Mercer’s eyes narrowed and a cruel grin paints his face, he handed the paper to Marlo, who hesitatingly reached for it. Message was short and only contained necessary information, it was not cyphered or anything. Marlo’s eye widened for a moment.
Mayall didn’t bother to be passed the little paper as he snatched the parchment out of Marlo’s slightly trembling hand. Mayall read the entire thing and just in time, the paper crumbled into dust. Mayall gave out a hearty but terrifying laugh, his maniacal guffaws echoed in the hollow chambers of the underground sewers. Adonn and Mayall looked at Marlo, who was in a state of disbelief or more accurately, in a state of surprise.
Adonn confronts Marlo, he drew close to the elder member. Getting in his face.
So it turns out, Marlo, that your lad Vincecarlo grabbed the princess’ guest and it seemed that they took him to where you said they would. Now going back to your question earlier, what pray tell, are we to do? Now that your son had potentially ruined our hard work, hmm? Adonn sarcastically stated.
The two senior members were starting to get into a heated argument, on one hand Marlo could not back down from Adonn’s insulting manners towards him while Adonn on the other hand was rightfully crossed as he’s the one most invested in the whole operation of the Hand of light. Just before the two’s tempers boiled over, Mayall suddenly stood up and interrupted Adonn and Marlo, getting in between them.
Gentlemen! I have a solution, I will personally go to the safe house and sort the matter with the boys, I admit that the Arganian boy is a potential problem we might as well stamp him out and put our own pups on a leash. My dear mister Eietti, If your son is indeed neck deep in this shenanigan, I assure you I will not harm the lad.
Said Lord Mayall, with a feigned expression of assurance. He quickly pivoted and speedily left the room, leaving no chance for the others to protest.
Chapter 22:
As Sord headed towards the crime scenes after his visit to Mayall’s shopping emporium, he figures that the princesses had finished their incantations, his head still filled with the enigmatic encounter with the emporium owner that called himself Lord Preston Mayall. There is certainly something odd about the heavyset noble. His movement somehow seemed unnatural, a subtle hint of artificiality that he can’t yet put his finger on. It had been bothering him for a while after he left the emporium, most striking is the faint smell of familiar chemicals, and he had smelled it before.
It’s during this times of struggling to remember that greatly vexed Sord leaving him a bit distracted and almost failed to see the danger he’s walking into. He did somehow sensed some maligned intent going towards him. He spotted two well-built youths hurriedly walking towards him, their gaze fixed upon him, he was able to look around and determined that a few more people were behind him, most likely with the same intent.
He could easily fend them off but took a moment to ponder and decided to let the event run its course, it was, in his head at least, an opportunity to potentially uncover the perpetrators of the heinous crime they were investigating or the identities of the ones that wanted Meiah dead.
As the two young men drew closer, a small sack would cover his head as the others roughly pushed him into a prearranged passing carriage, as it briefly slowed next to Sord, the side doors flew open, at this point he was shoved in head first and a couple of the perpetrators lifted his feet and legs into the carriage as the some of them jumped in as well while the coach sped away, the driver cracking his whip to urge the horses away.
Sord offered no resistance as the kidnappers further bound his hands to the wrists, then his feet, he only grunted to feign discomfort, he felt a sharp impact to his left cheek as one of the abductors hit him and was told to stay quiet if he wanted no harm to befall him. He tried to ask who were they and what did they want, of course it was just for him to sound like a fearful innocent abductee. He was just met with a few more blows and was told to keep quiet. He didn’t mind the blows, it was nothing to him aside from slight discomfort.
The carriage was on full gallop, being on the floor of the coach, he could fell the bumps as the carriage run over rough cobblestones and the occasional pot holes. As terrible his urban sense of direction is he can at the very least, ascertain that they were heading eastward until the carriage to a sharp turn northward that he sensed that it almost toppled over, however the coachman had expertly maneuvered the heavy vehicle back upright.
Sord could also sense that there were initially some civil guards that gave chase, but the adept coachman had lost them as it seemed that he knew the city well. Judging from the time of travel till the coach stopped, Sord estimated that they could be somewhere in the northern part of the city, he’s not familiar with this area but judging from the scarcity of people around they may have reached an exclusive part of the vast imperial capital.
Sord’s senses were now heightened, hearing and smell were now compensating for his lack of vision. Various odors assaulted his sense of smell, not the putrid smell of decay like the slums but a mix of pungent, musty and earthy odors common in storages for grains and dry goods. Sord guessed that he may have been transported to a warehouse of some sort.
Sord was able to ascertain about eight voices while he counted about a dozen people working with the kidnappers. He could hear their whispers there for he get the gist of his predicament. The bag over his head was stifling as it was made with a heavy, coarse canvass, impossible to see out of and could suffocate a person to death.
He was lifted out of the carriage by a larger henchman who didn’t speak. Most likely a laborer of the warehouse. He tried to pretend to struggle to see what happens and he was indeed hit multiple times with what he can determine as canes or heavy sticks. They had hit him forcefully intending to draw blood, this worried Sord s bit as their blows were hardly enough to cause him pain, let alone to bloody him. Sord thought he’d just better go with the flow of events.
As they were heading away from the carriage, Sord felt a slight change in temperature, it became a bit warmer, indicating they had entered a structure, perhaps with more people or is somewhat heated. The warehouse smell is now more pronounced and he’s certain that they were in a storage facility. He hears frantic footsteps all around as they entered. Urgent whispers, he understood most of their low voice conversation but the others were just too far distant for him to understand.
Sord tried to learn what he could by listening. He figured they do not intend to murder him yet, but still have not been given any sort of explanation. Once the criminals talks openly in front of him then it may be time that they intend to kill him. Sord felt that they were now descending down a long set of stairs, he feels that they’re entering a lower part of the city, smells suggest it was some sort of sewer or storm drain system of the infrastructure.
A strong smell of sewage, the warm musty and humid air, he was still being carried on the shoulder of the quiet man