Snippet #2576994

Others.

The news spread quickly, given the physical and cultural divide between the North and the South. Speculation fluttered through the Southern court, ideas and theories as the flurry of ash before the lava flow consumed them all, settling in a dusty cloud over every aspect of political and personal life, smothering the color from anything else.

The King was incensed. Why had they come? What did they want? And, perhaps most important of all, did they know? The fact that these outsiders had chosen their initial contact with the North seemed equal parts insult and idiotic to most Southerners. Everyone knew the North teemed with barbarians, heathens, women. By the very act of being seen, they had chosen sides in a blood feud centuries old. But some counselors to the King spoke a more neutral, reasoned path. Perhaps the choice was unwilling. Perhaps the visitors needed only an education in the ways of the strong and glorious South. Perhaps this spoke of ignorance, not malice. The King's own heir, Prince Pavé, advocated the path of exploration and dialogue before the inevitable condemnation, going so far as to oppose the King's opinions loudly, frequently, and publicly.

Outraged and insulted, the King hastily organized an envoy, led by the insolent Prince Pavé. The envoy would be sent without creature comforts, without fanfare, and without sufficient soldiers. The expedition would be punishing, difficult, and humiliating for a person of such status. Yet, the noble and brave Prince would fulfill her duty, bringing enlightenment and unification to the entirety of the Misu people, who would surely love her for her tolerance and silver tongue, and demand she serve as their Empress under a banner uniting North and South.

At least, that's the way Pavé told the tale to any who would listen. Her swagger and confidence, coupled with her battle-stung and glittering armor, created an intimidating and impressive sight. As the company made their way through the expansive and treacherous jungle, Pavé's hubris-laced speeches and tall tales spurred her meager battalion to survival.

Ultimately, an arduous three months after leaving their Southern homelands, Pavé's grouping finally arrived at the palace of Protector Jaimo, half their soldiers' lives already forfeit in the unforgiving jungle. Pavé and her crew wasted no time settling into the Protector's castle for rest, food, and a little bedwarming.