The New World

"My Master is the Alchemancer, Tsarvin Sphex," The creature spoke causing Xiao Jingshen to whimper. Tenanye hushed her softy "Due to historical embargoes on my Masters realm, we have shrunk from the eye of the other nations, but we are still very much... alive." she said approaching Tenanye and Blue, who floated nearby.
"My Masters reasons for sending myself to represent him, are the same as yours. We seek trade. As you may know, Father Superior, the land that my Master controls is of little agricultural worth, and as a result of this and said... embargoes, we have had to adapt to survive. But Merely surviving is something We would wish to move on from. Despite the Wastes lack of useable lands, there is much we have to trade." She said and Tenanye narrowed her eyes. There was something omnious about this creature, twisted and broken. "Assuming you are not as squeamish as your vassal, Queen Tenanye."
"Hardly." Was Tenanye's response.
"But such discussions should be held for the summit."

Xiao Jingshen rose up some, nearing Tenanye's ear. "She scares me, Meimei." She whispered, and Tenanye, never taking her cold eyes from Nemu.

"Be at peace, Little Sparrow, We are spiders." She told her. Her House saying, hoping to instill some family pride and strength to the girl. Severyn, seated beside Tenanye, eyed the creature as well. "Did your master, make you this way, Lady Nemu?" He asked, calmly but Tenanye could see the tension in his body. "Did you choose this?"

Severyn was always quick, and sometimes his intuition was frighteningly accurate. She didn't know how he came to this conclusion, perhaps the term "Master" but it was clear that Severyn was under the impression that this "Lady" was in fact, a slave of some fashion.

There was not much that surprised Moloch, but the appearance of this "Lady" from the Wastes threw him off balance. Even not taking her appearance in account, he felt something sinister in her very essence. Moloch resisted the urge to shiver. He was no true magi, but the dragonblood in his veins made him sensitive to certain things.

If Moloch was uncomfortable, Cyrus was furious. Moloch could see the old man practically shaking, his usual amused expression wiped away, replaced with a grim frown and eyes as hard as daggers made of dragonbone. Cyrus stood up to reach his full height and recited bitterly,

"Oh Avalon, Avalon! Land of lush meadows and crystal streams.
Who among the living remembers your bountiful yields,
The creatures in your heart,
Or the people you took to your bosom?
Oh, Avalon, Avalon!
If I cease to sing of your memory,
Let my right hand no longer remember its strength,
Or my mind heart, mine own children!"

The old man sighed and looked upon the woman with some pity. Yet his tone broke no argument as he spoke once again.

"What can your Master offer but blasphemy, distortion, and destruction?"

"Believe me, you do not want to face an angry mob, Your Grace. One can be more dangerous than a hundred knights. May I present King Moloch Markus of Drake."

Arim turned his attention away from the Father Superior to the two men who had now joined them. One was an older man who carried the wisdom of his years about him, the other a much younger looking man, no doubt King Moloch. He felt Aada's hand tighten on his arm. The change was slight but noticeable enough. Don't mess up, it said, for the umpteenth time on their journey. Creator help her children with all her fretting. Aada's hand left his arm as she dipped in a curtsy. Arim inclined his head.

"It is a pleasure," Moloch greeted them.

"An honour, Your Majesty," he said as Moloch's eyes flickered over him and onto Aada.

"Your fire is most delightful," he said to Aada, "Though, I confess, I know little of Cinnabar."

Arim looked between his sister and Moloch. Surely she wouldn't...

Aada took a moment to look at Moloch. It was rare that someone paid attention to her when her brother was also in the room. Well, they certainly looked, but they saw an instrument, a means to end of getting into Arim's good books, or getting a woman in their bed. She was rarely their sole intention. And here was Moloch, King of a great nation, ignoring her brother and looking to her instead. She wasn't about to spurn him, no matter what her brother might think of the men at this place.

"Then I apparently have you at a disadvantage Your Majesty. Drake is a land that has held much of my curiosity since I was a child. The Circle of Magi particularly, though what we hear of The Circle in Cinnabar is little more than whispers."

Apparently she would, Arim thought. What happened to worrying about the men? Or was this different because Moloch was 'handsome'? It couldn't have been the power he wielded, Aada was a Crown Princess, she was yet to be seduced by power. Aada's intentions might have been innocent, but Arim was certain that Moloch's were not so innocent.

The doors swung open and a woman was lead in. "The uhh... The Lady Nemu, representing the interests of her master... Tsarvin Sphex..."

"Greetings, my lords and ladies," the woman, Lady Nemu, said, in a voice that sounded near unnatural. Combined with her jerking movements, there was something truly unsettling about the woman. "I am here so I may convey the will of my master." Nemu curtsied, or at least tried to, the motion pulling her hood from her head, revealing a grizzly addition to her scalp. "It is a honour."

Aada watched Nemu. There was something about the woman, a perverse darkness that Aada didn't trust. Apparently, neither did anyone else in the room. The Fae seemed the most unsettled. She reached for her brother's hand, the way she had done when they were children. Before her fingers could brush against Arim's hand, Aada dropped her hand away. He had been little use to her then, she doubted he'd be much better now.

Empress Tenanye was the first to speak to their new arrival. “Greetings, Lady Nemu,” Tenanye said, “You say, your master sent you? Tsarvin...? Who is that?”

“And what intentions does your master wish for you to convey? What possibly would a representative of the Wastes desire to give and gain from a trade summit?” Valen added.

Aada had heard stories of the Wastes. Dark, horrifying tales that 'young ladies shouldn't hear'. But that was all she dismissed them as. Mere fairy tales meant to scare children into being good and fanciful tales to pass among friends. It had never occurred to her that there might be some truth to those stories. Looking at Lady Nemu, evidently there was something deeply wrong happening there. She felt Arim's hand on her shoulder, pulling her back as he stepped forward to shield her. A stupid thing to do, since she was the stronger mage, but she wasn't about to start arguing about it now. A single look at his face told her that he could feel it too. Even though his magic was weaker than Aada's, he could feel the darkness that moved within her. And it scared him. Aada had seen Arim be many things; elated, shamed, desperate, content, grief-stricken; but never afraid, not like this. And that worried her more than anything.

"My Master is the Alchemancer, Tsarvin Sphex," Nemu said in response to the Faes' questions, "Due to historical embargoes on my Masters realm, we have shrunk from the eye of the other nations, but we are still very much... alive." Nemu began to move around the room. Arim forced himself to look back at her when she passed them. The closer she got to them, the more he could feel the wrongness of what she was, of what had created her. Aada felt nauseous from the sensation. As she moved, she kept going back to the Fae. Apparently, they were her main concern. "My Masters reasons for sending myself to represent him, are the same as yours. We seek trade. As you may know, Father Superior, the land that my Master controls is of little agricultural worth, and as a result of this and said... embargoes, we have had to adapt to survive. But Merely surviving is something We would wish to move on from. Despite the Wastes lack of usable lands, there is much we have to trade." Nemu looked around the room, slowly taking in each of them. That was probably more unsettling than anything she had done thus far. Again, she looked back to the Fae. "Assuming you are not as squeamish as your vassal, Queen Tenanye." Nemu's scan of the room complete, her head jerked back to the Fae, her mouth forming a gross approximation of a smile,"But such discussions should be held for the summit."

A man with Tenanye continued questioning Lady Nemu. Aada turned to Arim, "Do you feel it, Arim?" she whispered.

He nodded. "Are you alright?"

"It's manageable."

"If you need to go-"

"I will let you know, Arim. I am not a delicate flower."

"Its master can offer us nothing." Arkaelus's voice rose across the room. "Sphex makes only weapons of war, tools of destruction for those desperate enough to use them. Begone monster and return to that wretch of man you serve!" Arim looked back to Nemu, seeing what the woman would do.

"Its master can offer us nothing." Arkaelus's voice rose across the room. "Sphex makes only weapons of war, tools of destruction for those desperate enough to use them. Begone monster and return to that wretch of man you serve!"
Nemu cocked her head at King Arkaelus, the man who had summoned them all there that day, her look inquisitive.
"My lord Arkaelus, it is true that my master is skilled in the creation of the tools of war, but they are far from his only skills. My master through the ages has discovered poultices and potions, elixirs and tonics that can heal the body, strengthen the mind and enhance the senses. War is not my masters goal, Lord Arkaelus, only enlightenment."
Nemu turned back to Tenanye and her entourage, and responded to the males question, his name not present in her memories, "In answer to your question, Faeling, my will is my masters will, what he desires, I desire. I serve him willingly, and my body his his to fashion."
She turned back to Arkaelus, whom still had is arms raised, ready to call down his guards should they be needed, "My lord, would you turn away those who come with the offer or peaceful trade, because of child-hood stories of monsters and demons?"
She turned and walked towards the door slowly, deliberately mocking the ensemble of lords and ladies, "Such actions are belittling of a king."

“Oh my dear sister you’ve mistaken my intentions. Heavens I don’t want to go there for trade. GOD NO… that’s Francis’ thing.” Vanessa huffed. “I want to socialize, to sight see, both scenery and men. A fur would be nice too, now that you mention it. And I’m quite curious to lay eyes on Arkaelus again. Last time I saw him he was pretty attractive. I need to add him to my list.” Caemyrn rolled her eyes. "Socialize..." She muttered.
“So My Lady, what was your reason for the sudden visit today?” Peregrine asked, diplomatic as always. Vanessa, grinned a mad grin but spoke in sister to Caemryn. ”I came here because I thought we would be going on a trip together. I was even beginning to warm up to the thought of your dear obscure husband being present. However since Khalidor is out, what do we do in its place? We’ve been cooped up in the kingdom for too long. Please tell me you’ve something planned, because frankly I don’t see how you stay around this castle that, by the hour, smells like burning flesh.”

"A Trip?" Caemryn couldn't believe the words. "You've seen my husband, if I don't keep him in that damnable "laboratory" I won't have any people to rule...I can't leave him and I certainly can't take him anywhere..." She snapped, her breathing quick, but she sat back against her chair, drinking from her wine glass. "I never did tell you what happened the day we were engaged, did I?" She said, thrusting out her arm. "More Wine." she said without looking at the wine bearer.

"I was young, as you remember when father brought me to meet the King of Valyria...I was excited, I just knew I would be Queen." She began, taking a swing of wine. "What I hadn't known was there were many girls, awaiting to become Queen. So when I arrived, I put it into my head that I would do anything to make him choose me." She said, the wine doing it's job finally.
"We were all presented to the King, all at once. That's when I noticed something was off about him. He was handsome enough but he would warp his face, twitch every so often. It was odd, but I left it alone, twisted it into my head so that it seemed charming." She said, her lip twitched in disgust. "The whole day, we all danced and sang and laughed for no real reason, all to please him.Realizing that the usual tricks wouldn't work, I decided to learn him, find out what interested him and I did...You see, You were never meant to be Queen of anything, you weren't raised that way, but me, Our parents, our mother, she made sure I would be Queen, it was expected of me."She said, looking at her sister.

"So, when all was said in done, and we retired for the evening, I snuck my way into his chambers. I found him there, in bed, he wasn't sleeping, just laying there, face twitching. I moved to him, graceful and soft. I told him, how lovely I thought his eyes were, and how bright his teeth were, but that didn't seem to interest him, it wasn't until he noticed that my dress was red and told me that was his favorite, I asked him why and he told me...It reminded him a fire, but not fire itself, but what it did to the skin. That's when I knew, this man, or boy then, was insane....I didn't let it deter me though, because, I would be Queen, so I asked him to show me." She said, with a measured smile, "I let him hold my candle to my arm, and burn my skin. He held it there in just enough time for my skin to turn red. I didn't move, I just let it happen." She said and took another drink. "He likes to tell me, that was the day he fell in love with me..." She said disdainfully. "Anyway, I told him after that, how fascinating that was, but I feared he would not be able to show me any more things like that because I would have to leave, that he would have to marry one of the other girls, and she wouldn't like that but if we marry, I would become his, and his forever, and he could show me all the things he wanted to. " She said and her gaze drifted. "With that, I gave him a kiss, on the forehead, and went to bed, and I knew I won him over....What I hadn't known, was what he would do next and what he did shocked me..." She said and looked at her sister. " You remember mother, her teachings, her lessons in blood magic, do I look easily shocked?"
She asked rhetorically. "What he did, shocked me." She said, her gaze drifting "I can still see them....All the girls, all of my competition, burning, screaming...and him, standing there, arms out wide, presenting me with my engagement gift and promising more to come when we marry....he has not gone back on the promise." She said, looked to her sister.

"You want to socialize....with him about...that man, who, if given the chance, would burn the world to the ground if only to please me?" She said, "or worse, have me leave him, here, for more girls, to suffer his experiments...For what? Because you're bored and sick of the smell...?" She said and drank the rest of her wine.

"The point of that tale is this, that man, needs handled, carefully, by me and only me, I can not waste time, going anywhere, with or without him."

Vanessa and Peregrine both listened and watched Caemryn respond to Vanessa’s previous explanation of intent. "A Trip?" Caemryn said unbelievingly. "You've seen my husband, if I don't keep him in that damnable "laboratory" I won't have any people to rule...I can't leave him and I certainly can't take him anywhere..." She snapped, her breathing quick, but she sat back against her chair, drinking from her wine glass. "I never did tell you what happened the day we were engaged, did I?" She said, thrusting out her arm. "More Wine." she said without looking at the wine bearer.


Vanessa looked on curiously, her head cocked to the side. ”No you never did…” she said in an apprehensive tone. Caemryn needed alcohol to tell this story so it was bound to have been REALLY bad, Vanessa thought. Peregrine sat quietly listening intently. Since what was about to be told all happened before he relocated to the kingdom of Valyria he was intrigued to hear this rare tale.

Caemryn continued, "I was young, as you remember when father brought me to meet the King of Valyria...I was excited, I just knew I would be Queen." She began, taking a swing of wine. "What I hadn't known was there were many girls, awaiting to become Queen. So when I arrived, I put it into my head that I would do anything to make him choose me." She said.



Peregrine noted that the wine was beginning to take its effect on the queen, something he wasn’t used to seeing in regards to her. He knew that she was having a really vulnerable moment by recounting this experience. He was beginning to feel a little for her. She carried much weight on her shoulders yet she rarely ever let it show that it was quite the burden that it truly was. He looked over to Vanessa who seemed to sit bracing herself for the worst. Clearly Caemryn’s tale hadn’t reached its epitome yet it was already shocking Vanessa, another feat not easily met.

"We were all presented to the King, all at once. That's when I noticed something was off about him. He was handsome enough but he would warp his face, twitch every so often. It was odd, but I left it alone, twisted it into my head so that it seemed charming." She said, her lip twitched in disgust. "The whole day, we all danced and sang and laughed for no real reason, all to please him. Realizing that the usual tricks wouldn't work, I decided to learn him, find out what interested him and I did...You see, You were never meant to be Queen of anything, you weren't raised that way, but me, Our parents, our mother, she made sure I would be Queen, it was expected of me." She said, looking at her sister.



Vanessa looked to the side in thought. She realized that Caemeryn brought up an interesting point. Thinking back on how their parents were, they never seemed to push her into marriage until the last minute. It was an afterthought when it concerned Vanessa. However Caemryn was always associated with social ladder climbing. Caemryn could never sit up straight enough or speak eloquently enough, whereas Vanessa was allowed to slouch or be informal in speech. Caemryn was introduced to a king as Vanessa was given to an older nobleman of good social standing. Vanessa snapped out of her own thoughts and continued to listen.

"So, when all was said in done, and we retired for the evening, I snuck my way into his chambers. I found him there, in bed, he wasn't sleeping, just laying there, face twitching. I moved to him, graceful and soft. I told him, how lovely I thought his eyes were, and how bright his teeth were, but that didn't seem to interest him, it wasn't until he noticed that my dress was red and told me that was his favorite, I asked him why and he told me...It reminded him a fire, but not fire itself, but what it did to the skin. That's when I knew, this man, or boy then, was insane....I didn't let it deter me though, because, I would be Queen, so I asked him to show me." She said, with a measured smile, "I let him hold my candle to my arm, and burn my skin. He held it there in just enough time for my skin to turn red. I didn't move, I just let it happen." She said and took another drink. "He likes to tell me, that was the day he fell in love with me..." She said disdainfully. "Anyway, I told him after that, how fascinating that was, but I feared he would not be able to show me any more things like that because I would have to leave, that he would have to marry one of the other girls, and she wouldn't like that but if we marry, I would become his, and his forever, and he could show me all the things he wanted to. " She said and her gaze drifted.

Peregrine looked composed yet he was astonished at the queen’s bravery and determination. To tell a psycho that you want them to show you more of their insane fantasy, even worse that you’d give yourself to them was crazy. The weak willed would never go that far. This was why Peregrine revered the queen as well as noted her as a threat. She was determined to the bitter end and didn’t scare easily. To make an enemy of her would be to make a grave mistake. He wanted to be as close to her as he could get. That was safer than being on the outskirts of her graces.

"With that, I gave him a kiss, on the forehead, and went to bed, and I knew I won him over....What I hadn't known, was what he would do next and what he did shocked me..." She said and looked at her sister. " You remember mother, her teachings, her lessons in blood magic, do I look easily shocked?"
She asked rhetorically. "What he did, shocked me." She said, her gaze drifting "I can still see them....All the girls, all of my competition, burning, screaming...and him, standing there, arms out wide, presenting me with my engagement gift and promising more to come when we marry....he has not gone back on the promise." She said, looked to her sister.

Vanessa recalled that time. “Wait… that was the truth behind the disappearance of all those noble women? I remember Francis said he heard whispers that it had something to do with the King and that he was trying to find out more. However his family immediately sent for him to return to Drake City at the time… Oh god…” Vanessa said as she placed a hand over her chest.

Caemeryn continued, "You want to socialize....with him about...that man, who, if given the chance, would burn the world to the ground if only to please me?" She said, "or worse, have me leave him, here, for more girls, to suffer his experiments...For what? Because you're bored and sick of the smell...?" She said and drank the rest of her wine. "The point of that tale is this, that man, needs handled, carefully, by me and only me, I cannot waste time, going anywhere, with or without him."

Vanessa looked at Caemryn and gave a quick smile. “Okay. Point made, point taken. Gee…I’m sure the Humanists have a field day brooding over Theomus’ abductions. Caemryn things would be so much simpler for you if Theo were… preoccupied, somewhere out of the way.” Vanessa wasn’t referring to the laboratory when she mentioned somewhere out of the way. She knew she was treading on thin ice but when had she even not done so when it concerned Theomus.

Peregrine tried not to grin. Oh how he would kiss the person that got rid of Theomus, if such an unlikely thing were to happen. However as it stood, as insane as Theomus was Caemryn still seemed to hold some capacity of love for him. Peregrine never envied royalty as it was a life of false freedoms. Being shackled in plain sight was not his idea of living. Given Caemryn’s predicament, she needed people who could carry out her will in places where she herself could not go, and when quill and parchment didn’t suffice. Peregrine, Vanessa, and Francis were often her go to people. ”Your Majesty you can always count on us to assist you in any way you deem fit. Travel may not be a luxury afforded to you at present, however I’m sure I speak for Lady Pendragon, Governor Francis Pendragon, and myself when I say that we would gladly carry your will wherever you so desire.”

Vanessa added, “Although Peregrine should never be as comfortable speaking for my husband or I, for that matter, I do agree with him.” She gave a quaint smile at the general. Stood to her feet and pecked him on the cheek. She then sat in the seat next to Caemryn and pulled it closer to her sister’s chair. Vanessa placed an arm around Caemryn’s shoulders to comfort her intoxicated sister. There now, you should get some rest. We’ll babysit Theomus if you’d like to lie down for a bit.”

Peregrine rose from his seat and bowed slightly. “I can escort your majesty to her chambers if need be.”

“Okay. Point made, point taken. Gee…I’m sure the Humanists have a field day brooding over Theomus’ abductions. Caemryn things would be so much simpler for you if Theo were… preoccupied, somewhere out of the way.” Vanessa said and Caemryn shot her a warning look. Most days, Theomus annoyed her, but...she was his and he was hers. She worked too damn hard for it. If she were honest with herself, she would even go as far as to say she cared about him, but since when was she ever honest with herself. ”Your Majesty you can always count on us to assist you in any way you deem fit. Travel may not be a luxury afforded to you at present, however I’m sure I speak for Lady Pendragon, Governor Francis Pendragon, and myself when I say that we would gladly carry your will wherever you so desire.” Caemryn rolled her eyes. Great, now they pitied her. She rose the glass to her lips only to find it empty. “Although Peregrine should never be as comfortable speaking for my husband or I, for that matter, I do agree with him.” Vanessa said and while she was about to call for more wine when Vanessa came over, pulled her over with an arm. There now, you should get some rest. We’ll babysit Theomus if you’d like to lie down for a bit.”
Caemyrn set her jaw. Peregrine rose and bowed. “I can escort your majesty to her chambers if need be.” He said and Caemryn shoved her sister off of her.

"Were you not paying attention!?" She spat. "You can not do a damned thing for Theomus, that's my job, I have to do it I-" She shot to her feet, but held on to the table as the world spun in her vision. She held her head. "Peregrine, make yourself useful." She ordered, and allow him to escort her to her chambers.

Oddly, as she leaned up against Peregrine, she felt warm in a way she hadn't in a long time, if very. She wanted for once, someone to care for her, look after her, bare the burden just a little bit.

"Peregrine..." She said, her voice soft as they entered her chambers. "Do you think I'm beautiful?" She asked, her fingers crawling up his shoulder. She smiled when he answered and posed her with a question of his own. "Because...you're sane...." She said, she grabbed ahold of his face, and pressed her lips firmly against his,

She just wanted to be held, loved even, but not with monstrous gifts, and grotesque offerings, she wanted something normal, even if it was Peregrine, even if she didn't particularly like him nor did she dislike him, or find him all that attractive. She wanted to know what it felt like.

After a moment, she realized that at any moment, that if her husband were to walk in here, and see her now, he would kill them both,unless she lied and said that Peregrine attacked her, made her or something. He would believe anything if she told it to him.

Peregrine, though, he would be killed in the most horrible of ways.

She shoved away from him. "Get out." She said, wiping her mouth, then interlocking her fingers. That was a dangerous mistake. " If my husband sees you, you will burn....Go, Now."she said more calmly now. If she were going to make that mistake, she would do it with someone that was actually useful.

"Its master can offer us nothing." Arkaelus's voice rose across the room. "Sphex makes only weapons of war, tools of destruction for those desperate enough to use them. Begone monster and return to that wretch of man you serve!" Arkaelus snapped.
Nemu seemed uninterested in this but still moved to the door.
"In answer to your question, Faeling, my will is my masters will, what he desires, I desire. I serve him willingly, and my body his his to fashion." The poor creature said and Severyn frowned, casting a gaze back at Tenanye. "His to fashion...?" He said and Tenanye only shook her head. "Leave it, we can not help the slave who loves her chains." She said as she watched Nemu speak to Arkaelus. "My lord, would you turn away those who come with the offer or peaceful trade, because of child-hood stories of monsters and demons?" She said. "Such actions are belittling of a king."
Tenanye stood then, Xiao Jingshen clinging to Severyn now as Tenanye rounded the table.
"If that were true, Nemu...." She said, allowing her irises to disperse within her eyes, like an drop of ink on parchment. She wouldn't show the fullness of her true form, but close enough. "We Fae would not be here. We are the creatures of childhood nightmare and dreams...we too come in peace, however." Tenanye said, her fingers elongating, the tips turning black and shining at the nails, that dripping with acidic poison. "We do not mock those we come to make peace with...." She said, her voice an eerie calm, like the static before a storm. "You should know this, if you intended any progress with your masters so called peaceful trade." She said, then shrugged,. "But you are only a slave, how could you know anything beyond what he tells you?" She said and with that she slide back on her Fae Glamour. She tossed her hand and took a seat. "All the same, I believe you were asked to leave."

Caemryn shoved her sister off of her. To which Vanessa was taken aback. "Were you not paying attention!?" She spat. "You can not do a damned thing for Theomus, that's my job, I have to do it I-" She shot to her feet, but held on to the table as the world spun in her vision. She held her head. "Peregrine, make yourself useful." She ordered, and allow him to escort her to her chambers.

Peregrine took her hand gently and helped her maintain her balance. He was unused to the queen calling him by his first name. Unlike Vanessa, Caemryn and Theomus almost always referred to him by last name. It may have been because she was tipsy and lacking the energy for being overly formal thus Peregrine dismissed the thought process.

Vanessa folded her arms in minor frustration at her sister’s irritable disposition. She watched Peregrine gently escort Caemryn out of the room and down the hall. Having a second thought on her guarding the laboratory door in the event that Theomus emerged Vanessa cringed. ”I may need some help here… Theo relates to Francis much better than me.” Vanessa called for a messenger. ”Send word for my husband Governor Francis at once. Tell him his wife needs him urgently at the palace. Don’t dawdle.” she warned. Taking another drink, she sat back down and waited for Francis’ arrival.

Meanwhile in the hall, Peregrine assisted the queen to her chambers. A few court servants bowed humbly as the two passed them by. They scurried off out of sight once passed by the queen and general. "Peregrine..." Caemryn said, her voice soft as they entered her chambers. "Do you think I'm beautiful?" She asked, her fingers crawling up his shoulder.

Peregrine was a little slower than usual to register what was happening. ‘Is she coming on to me?’ he thought to himself. He gathered himself as best he could to respond. His usual placid demeanor was difficult to muster in this moment for some reason. His heart was pushing to answer honestly rather than strategically. He looked into Caemryn’s eyes and replied softly, ”Your majesty, you are a goddess amongst mortals. If the most vibrant of paintings were to attempt to portrait your beauty they would all surely fall short. I am fortunate to behold your image daily. But why ask such a thing of one such as I?”

She smiled when he answered and posed her with a question of his own. "Because...you're sane...." She said, she grabbed ahold of his face, and pressed her lips firmly against his. Peregrine was internally shocked but only for a mere moment. His heart seized the opportunity and he acted on raw emotion. Peregrine returned the intoxicated queen’s kiss with his own sudden passionate kiss. For a couple of split seconds he let his guard down and closed his eyes. This was the first romantic moment he’d had since his wife was alive.

Caemryn shoved away from him. "Get out." She said, wiping her mouth, then interlocking her fingers. They both realized they had made a dangerous mistake. " If my husband sees you, you will burn....Go, Now." she said more calmly now.

Peregrine stepped back reluctantly. It was as if a dream were abruptly ended. He placed his hand gently over his lips in an unconscious attempt to savor the feeling. Gathering his usual placid disposition he let out a heavy sigh, “Your majesty. I bid thee good day.” He bowed and turned to head down the hall. As he rounded the corner he leaned against the wall breathing heavily. ”My god man, what did you just do?!” he said to himself quietly yet frantically. He tried to steady his swiftly beating heart but it was not as easy as he had hoped. ”One little slip like that could cause your head to roll and your bowels to be removed and shown to you before execution. You have to be careful. You must live to avenge your son.” he said to himself in an attempt to pep talk himself. After gathering himself he proceeded towards his chambers.

An hour later, Francis had arrived at the palace. He was greeted cheerfully by everyone he encountered. He was well liked by the subjects of the kingdom. Most subjects viewed Francis and Caemryn as the ‘normal’ ones of the royal family. A few servants gladly showed him the way to Lady Vanessa. As he entered the room he held a little grin on his face. (OOC: Francis speaks in a French accent. I attribute it to some form of olden Drake City Dialect his family speaks in. He will often mispronounce “th” sounds with “Z” sounds. For ex. I don’t think I’m going to type out the mispronunciations so I ask you imagine a frenchaccent when reading his lines.) ”My love, you requested my presence?” he said with a bow.

Vanessa stood to her feet and hugged Francis. ”I’m so glad you’re here! Caemryn needs to rest and I can’t possibly look after Theomus alone lest I burn him with a fireball. He responds well to you.”

Francis’ smile faded slightly. ”Tis not my favorite pastime, but for you anything.” He replied, he followed by giving Vanessa a kiss on the cheek.

Vanessa replied, ”Also I have more bad news.” Francis braced himself. Vanessa continued. “Caemryn decided that Valyria would have no official representation at the Khalidor trade summit. We won’t be going…”

Francis shrugged and smiled casually. “Worry not my love. I have already made a large sum of money trading a few important goods to Khalidor. Besides we will get the opportunity to travel soon. If your sister cannot join us then you and I will adventure and do business abroad alone. What do you say to a trip soon? Will you go on my adventure?”

Vanessa smile brightly and in a sigh of a manner she replied, “Glady…”

"Its master can offer us nothing." Arkaelus's voice rose across the room. "Sphex makes only weapons of war, tools of destruction for those desperate enough to use them. Begone monster and return to that wretch of man you serve!" Arkaelus snapped. His guards rush forward and pointed rifles at Nemu ready to fire upon Arkaelus’ command.
Nemu seemed uninterested in this but still moved to the door.

"In answer to your question, Faeling, my will is my masters will, what he desires, I desire. I serve him willingly, and my body his his to fashion." The poor creature said and Severyn frowned, casting a gaze back at Tenanye. "His to fashion...?" He said and Tenanye only shook her head. "Leave it, we can not help the slave who loves her chains." Tenanye said as she watched Nemu speak to Arkaelus. "My lord, would you turn away those who come with the offer or peaceful trade, because of child-hood stories of monsters and demons?" Nemu said. "Such actions are belittling of a king."
Tenanye stood then, Xiao Jingshen clinging to Severyn now as Tenanye rounded the table.


"If that were true, Nemu...." Tenanye said, allowing her irises to disperse within her eyes, like an drop of ink on parchment. She wouldn't show the fullness of her true form, but close enough. "We Fae would not be here. We are the creatures of childhood nightmare and dreams...we too come in peace, however." Tenanye said, her fingers elongating, the tips turning black and shining at the nails, that dripping with acidic poison. "We do not mock those we come to make peace with...." She said, her voice an eerie calm, like the static before a storm. "You should know this, if you intended any progress with your masters so called peaceful trade." She said, then shrugged,. "But you are only a slave, how could you know anything beyond what he tells you?" She said and with that she slide back on her Fae Glamour. She tossed her hand and took a seat. "All the same, I believe you were asked to leave."

Father Superior, Zexen and Valen watched the happening. Father Superior was surprised to see the empress resort to showing a portion of her true form however she was proving an important point. Zexen was beginning to feel a little bad. He knew that Nemu was not being given a fair chance. He wasn’t fond of her demeanor nor her appearance, nor tales of her malicious master but that didn’t mean she should be turned away unfairly. One of the guards, nervous and frightened by the happenings, accidentally pulled the trigger of his rifle causing the other riflemen to fire their rounds. Zexen yelled “STOP!!!” aloud.



Father Superior quickly flew forward and pointed his blue wand at the bullets and a blue aura surrounded them. The bullets halted in the air and soon fell to the ground. He turned to look towards the riflemen with a heavy exhale. He held no faith in anything or anyone from the Wastes yet he knew right was right and that Nemu deserved to be treated fairly. Zexen was right.



Zexen stepped forward as he said, “This is not the way.” Valen looked upon his son at a loss for words. The pixie sized Father Superior hovered not too far from the rifle bullets that lay upon the floor. Zexen walked towards Nemu and as he reach her he kneeled down before her. ”I believe that you have been mistreated. Even if no one else agrees to listen to your master’s propositions, I, as a representative of Valen Alus, will agree to hear you out. You have my word, although I cannot promise that we will reach an agreement.” He then turned to look upon the faces of all other rulers present after standing. ”I urge you all to follow suite. Although I am but a lowly ambassador and not a ruler, I beseech you to be fair to all present here. For is it not the general premise of our gathering and negotiations?”

Blue flew beside him and Nemu. ”The young fae is right. We should exhibit fairness at such a time. For there may come a day when we regret having not listened to each other when we had fair chance.”

Valen glared at his son for offering Valen’s listening ear to the servant of Tsarvin Sphex. He could see the longer Zexen spent in the presence of The Blue Faery the more he began to exhibit his benevolent demeanor. Valen wasn’t quite sure how to feel about such a phenomenon. However he’d have to deal with it later. Zexen turned toward his father with a hopeful yet sheepish smile. He knew he would have piss his father off royally but he felt it was worth it to do the right thing.

"It has been rumored that your master accepts slaves. Such serious accusations usually hold a kernel of truth. As such I cannot have you treat with us within the palace. However, you may go to the gardens and any who wish to speak to you may see you there. That is my only offer." Arkaelus said.

Zexen turned back toward King Arkaelus and kneeled down as he said, “Your majesty, thank you for your generosity and fairness in the matter.” He rose to his feet and joined his father once again. Blue as well followed the young warrior, his dragonfly like wings fluttering swiftly in the air.

Valen stepped closer to his son when he was near and said quietly, “I will grant no audience to that abomination. You and Father Superior have been more than FAIR by allowing it to live.” He then glared at Blue, “You should have let those rifle rounds tear it to shreds, rid the world of an evil.”

Blue folded his arms in a huff as he floated at shoulder’s height. “If you recall there are forces of great power in the world that would like to see a similar fate bestowed upon you. You above all others should exhibit some compassion.”

Valen snapped back sharply, “I suppose I can count you among the ranks of those that would relish in my destruction?”

Blue looked over with an obvious look of hurt on his face, “You KNOW that’s not true.” Father Superior replied.

Zexen cringed hearing the two argue. “What is it with you two?! Care to explain to me what this bickering is about?” He fussed. Both Valen and Father Superior abruptly halted in their argument and said nothing more. This annoyed Zexen even further. He shook his head in frustration at the two Faeries silence on the matter and then focused his attention on Tenanye.

Tenanye turned to address the others. “We of Anansai, shall not partake in such trade with a Taskmaster, who does not give us the time to address us himself and sends this poor creature to do his leg work.“ She turned her attention to Nemu. “If this was meant to let us know he exists, then his point has been made. His wicked presence has been felt.” She said with a nod to the creature. “You can relay this message to him, from me, Empress Tenanye of Anansai," She said, looking the creature in the eye from where she stood. "I fear no monsters, for I am one.” She said, and turned her head from the girl.

The announcer informed the room of the arrival of The Princes of Ashkara and well as General Dorian of Khalidor. Zexen looked over in anticipation. He was eager to lay eyes upon the man the King of Khalidor requested he duel. Dorian seemed formidable. He looked as if he’d been traveling for some time, muddied boots and non-regal clothing. Zexen was reminded of the men he trained alongside in the Nation of Athedale under commander Peregrine Le Buque. Zexen watched with a grin on his face as Dorian signaled an obviously annoyed servant to fetch him a pitcher of his personal wine. Dorian found a chair across the Anansai Empress.

Zexen looked to Blue with an excited smile, “I’m going to have a seat. You should return to human size. I don’t think there are pixie sized accommodations here.”

Blue snickered at Zexen’s recommendation, “Unfortunately young one, you’re right.” With that he altered his size once again. He with the shake of his shoulders his dragonfly like wings faded away like pixie dust in the air. He took a seat next to Zexen, reluctantly not far from Valen.

Blue noticed that the Empress, Severyn and Xiao seemed somewhat distressed. He leaned a bit in his chair as they examined Xiao’s arm. He hoped the innocent young fae was alright. When he looked upon her he could tell she was now different, bonded to another. He could also tell that it wasn’t just a magical bond but one of the heart. With that, he smiled and felt she’d be alright. He thought to himself, ”Her journey begins now.”

"I would ask for my lords to excuse my poor manners. The journey has been a long one and I have been looking foward to a hot meal for quite some time. I am Dorian Ursuul, Grand General of the Republic." Dorian smiled as he said it. He looked up at Sphex's creation. "Come!" He called out to the creature. "It looks like you could use something in your belly!" He pulled up a chair for it to sit on. He looked at Arkaelus only to the a sour look on his cousin's face.

Zexen watched Dorian with unbiased invite Nemu over to eat with the group. His smile and liking for the general grew. Zexen turned to his father and snickered. ”See, Dorian gets it.” he took another sip of wine.

Valen looked over in annoyance, “And so will you if you press the issue any further.” He said with a huff.

“Grand General, Greetings, I am Tenanye Ananse, Empress of Anansai, this is my sister, Princess Xiao Jingshen and my Advisor, Prince Severyn Alderson of the Seelie Court, the King, your brother? I am assuming. He has declined the creature entrance to this meeting, but has allowed her to stay in Khalidor should anyone else wish to host her.” Tenanye said calmly. “So If you would be so kind, as to allow her to leave, I would be grateful as this creature unsettles my sister, and I would very much like her not to be anywhere near her.” She said and Xiao Jingshen brow creased bashfully.

After a moment, Father Superior decided that he should introduce himself. This would lessen the tension involving Nemu’s presence and possible departure. He stood to his feet and with a humble smile he spoke, “Grand General, Princes of Askara, Salutations, I am Luin Elen, Father Superior of the wishing star faeries of Anansai. It is an honor to meet you.” He took his seat.

Valen and Zexen stood to greet the general as well. “I am Valen Mori Elen, of Valen Alus. This is my son ambassador Zexen Tiberius Elen. Greetings to the Princes of Askara, and the Grand General of Khalidor, from my humble nation.” Valen greeted with a bow.

Zexen said with a sheepish smile, “General Dorian, I have been honored by King Arkaelus in being asked to participate in a friendly sparring match with your grace. I much look forward to learning from you Grand General.”

It was quite a show, Moloch thought wryly, as the various people there felt the need to bluster at the appearance of Sphex's monstrosity. Of course, Cyrus felt the need chime in, but Moloch understood. The old man's family had come from what was now the Wastes long ago. He sometimes forgot they were not originally from Drake and not many remembered their homeland after so many generations, but Cyrus never forgot. It was a trait he admired.

Moloch felt no desire to treat with Sphex or his monstrosities. There was little he could offered him. Drake already had the finest army in the world. Even ignoring the price the madman would demand from him, integrating the monstrosities he would offer him would be more trouble than it was worth. Instead, as the commotion died down and Moloch filed away the words and actions of his peers for future consideration, he turned to Princess Aada, continuing their conversation.

"I would be happy to tell you about my homeland. Would you like a drink? A little wine does wonders to ease the shock from... unexpected guests."

"I am far ahead of you, Your Grace," Cyrus said with a sigh as he gestured for servant to bring them refreshments, "I believe I will be drinking a bottle of Cinnabar Red myself."

Nemu gave an artificial approximation of a smile and nodded her head deeply to the Lord General. He was the only one with whom she truly had any business, but it would be unseemly to make obvious such things. Her enhanced cogitators ensured that she understood as much.
“Grand General, Greetings, I am Tenanye Ananse, Empress of Anansai, this is my sister, Princess Xiao Jingshen and my Advisor, Prince Severyn Alderson of the Seelie Court, the King, your brother? I am assuming. He has declined the creature entrance to this meeting, but has allowed her to stay in Khalidor should anyone else wish to host her.” Tenanye said, clearly eager to see Nemu gone from the proceedings, “So If you would be so kind, as to allow her to leave, I would be grateful as this creature unsettles my sister, and I would very much like her not to be anywhere near her.”
The Father superior similarly introduced himself, but managed to refrain from accusing her, “Grand General, Princes of Askara, Salutations, I am Luin Elen, Father Superior of the wishing star faeries of Anansai. It is an honour to meet you.” He took his seat.
Valen and Zexen stood to greet the general as well. “I am Valen Mori Elen, of Valen Alus. This is my son ambassador Zexen Tiberius Elen. Greetings to the Princes of Askara, and the Grand General of Khalidor, from my humble nation.” Valen greeted with a bow.
Zexen said with a sheepish smile, “General Dorian, I have been honored by King Arkaelus in being asked to participate in a friendly sparring match with your grace. I much look forward to learning from you Grand General.”
“I do not believe your sister’s comfort is the reason for this meeting, Queen Tenanye." Nemu addressed to the Fae Queen, "Perhaps instead of sending away the emissary of a nation not under your control, you should excuse your weak blooded kin. The reason my master sends me in his stead, is due to the exact discrimination you show me now. Never forget, Queen of Anansai, it was your kind that drove him to such lengths, to survive, to prosper.” Nemu said with a blank look, but a twinkle of malice lurked beneath her placid eyes, she turned towards King Arkaelus, bowing deeply, if stiffly. “My Lord, King Arkaelus, should YOU, request my absence, I will oblige, as is your right as host of this summit,” She looked back over at Dorian her eyes connecting with the rough, handsome man, unknown and unusual chemicals flooding her body from her auxiliary cortex’s, “However, your brother has offered me succour, and it would be rude to refuse the kindness of a Lord, especially when he is of the few present who do not appear to judge me based on rumour and myth.”
Her head pivoted back towards Tenanye like the head of a doll, “Yes, lord Dorian, I would very much like a drink.”

The south of Kythianna was dominated by a dark range of black stone mountains capped with dark blue ice that acted as impassable barrier to the Wastes beyond, with the lower hillsides below the tree-line on the western slopes giving way to a black wall of a similar stone to that of the mountains themselves but smooth as a mirror and etched with faintly glowing runes. The ice that encases this wall on its southern face and trails up to join the mountains proper is thicker and more imposing where it touches the Wastes rather than where it meets the wall being formed of jagged shards and shear heights to ward against intrusion. Trapped within the ice, standing still as the sentries they were, are several tall armoured figures.

The Golems of Kythianna were somewhat of an anomaly to those beyond the nation, with rare stories telling of monstrous beings who never tired and would grind you into dust, but such is the way of such tall tales. The constructs were simply enchanted machines built with design and purpose to serve in whatever task they were made for with different forms or materials being used depending on the task at hand; though if there was one characteristic they all shared it was their strength and durability. Now the ones that were trapped here had once performed the duty of patrolling the borders of the land for millennia to protect it from intruders and those who sought to cause harm. Staring at them through part of the misty blue crystal where the snow had been swept away stood a tall solitary figure wrapped in a long dark cloak of pale sapphire.

Fiona sighed to herself as she mused how long it would take to free them all and return her nation back to a more acceptable state of security. Admittedly the barriers of ice ensured that few could enter that were not welcome and the ancient magic in the stone walls themselves made certain that even those few who could bypass the ice would have great difficulty entering unwanted. Though having the Golems returned to full function would improve matters and help out where the general populous would have their limit and the magical cast would already be beyond their breaking point it was not a perfect solution. Turning back to stare down towards the plains that composed much of the southern half of the nation north of the mountains she mused over how much work she and hers had done these past few years. Even so she knew that her people would struggle to rebuild it alone, and so few of the people remain as well, so to over burden them could be costly at such a time. As much as she hated to admit it, even to herself, even alone on the frozen hillside miles away from another soul save the magical hearts of her Golems she knew she’d need aid.

She began to carefully walk across the ice and snow while her eyes trailed towards the large structure that jutted out from the largest outcrop of the mountain chain. This was her home, one of the few places her family had built in their long rule that had survived the conflict of her siblings. The great palace had been built upon the great catacombs of her ancestors to act as a temple and burial ground for her family as each rule passed away and only those who claimed the throne for themselves was granted a place among its hallowed halls. She had claimed it as her own early in the siblicide that was part of her heritage as much as she’d wished it hadn’t been, but had decided that this place needed protection even if her brothers and sisters didn’t.

Laughing a little as if to ward away tears she stretched her arms and gave her muscles a shake as an athlete would before exercising. Casting magic didn’t just take its toll on your mind; your body had to be able to keep up. Because of this she always made sure to force life into her limbs and warm them up prior to something tricky. She’d been planning to attend this trade summit, invitation or not but she’d hoped to not have to seek help from what were essentially strangers. Not to mention that weakness would be seen as such and could very well result in complications. Regardless she’d have to see how matters presented themselves and hope it would work out. And with that she vanished.

---

On the upper floors of Khalidor’s Palace there was a faint fizzing, accompanied by a tang of bitterness in the air as reality distorted for a moment before vanishing as if nothing had happened. And where there had been an empty room save for some cloth covered furniture there now stood Fiona in their midst, her eyes glowing slightly and her staff gently steaming. Her composure waned for a moment as the light in her eyes faded and she stumbled, her other hand reaching out to steady herself on what she assumed what a chair of some sort while she lent her weight against the staff to stop from toppling completely.

”Perhaps that weren’t the best idea.”

She muttered to herself, her breath a little ragged as she stood trying to regain some sense of balance having overexerted herself a little teleporting from the capital of Kythianna to its counterpart in Khalidor. Once suitably centred and feeling a little less drained she carefully exited the room and made her way to the nearest stairway leading down to bright light and raised voices mixed with a general roar of noise which was what she assumed would be this “trade summit” she’d heard was happening in the world beyond her borders. As she approached a doorway that appeared to be ajar she heard a loud crack that seemed to echo ahead of her.

Uncertain as to what awaited beyond she steadied her breathing and made herself become unnoticed. It wasn’t exactly magic, not exactly magic, not really. It was more of a trick if anything because what she did was suppress that little bit of her that alerted the world around her that she existed. This meant that she faded into the background noise and became more or less invisible, and as most people weren’t able to get past the information that their brains were telling them they didn’t see her unless she lost concentration and came back into focus so to speak.

Carefully she pushed the door a little and slipped inside the chamber were several people who given the way they were arguing with one another and the finery of their clothing could only be the world leaders. She lightly stalked around the edge of the hall, eying up each of the others before finding a seat near the far end of the table from where the activity seemed to be happening. Despite knowing that few would be able to see her yet she felt unsure when it came to a few within the room who clearly showed signs of magical ability which always offered a helping hand in dispelling such tricks by their very nature. The ones that caught her eye most however were a dark skinned woman and several people who appeared fae in nature; as well as the strange girl that seemed to be at the centre of events for the moment. Smiling a little to herself she balanced her staff so it stood alone and carefully poured herself a drink before reclining to watch events unfold and see if her presence would be noticed.

To be honest, Kallias couldn't help but pity the strange woman that had caused such a commotion among the known world's most powerful figures. While he was familiar wit the tales of the Wastes and the mad abomination that ruled it, he didn't see any reason to be cold with the woman as she was was only her master's slave. Still, he said nothing and as the summit/gala or whatever this gathering was continued, he found himself near the Ashkara and the Fae. At last, Arkaelus stood to speak.

"I have called for you all to gather here under the pretense of trade. Trade is something the benefits all of our nations and provides great wealth. I would like to propose a Free Trade Agreement between nations. Under this agreement import quotas, tariffs, and embargoes will become illegal. Markets will be deregulated so that our citizens may trade what they wish to whomever the please in any amount they so desire."

Kallias could see his brother nodding at their host's words. Free trade would only benefit Drake in the end, though Kallias was already getting a headache from the future complaints of the powerful Merchant Caste in Drake. Tariffs and quotas served to protect domestic industry and while only a few would lose business in comparison with those who would make a profit from free trade, they would make quite bit of noise. Still, Kallias could imagine Moloch's speech about the meritocracy that made Drake and all that rot. He was glad he didn't need to be king anytime soon or ever if Moloch managed to marry some nice-looking princess. He grinned at the beauty at his brother's side.

"Furthermore during wartime neutral trade vehicles shall not be harmed or stopped. Blockades may not prevent their target from accessing food as well."

Kallias stiffened at that last statement. Surely his brother would object.

"Drake will be happy to ratify any agreement nullifying archaic practices such as tariffs, quotas, and embargoes. The free competition of business has long served Drake well. It is also an act of supreme humanity to protect neutral trade vehicles. However, the sole purpose of a blockade in a lawfully declared war is to prevent the enemy from accessing the goods they need to prolong the conflict. That includes food as well.

"Drake is prepared to agree to the cessation of unlawful blockades in peace time, but I confess that I am puzzled. Can anyone tell me why it is preferable lengthen a siege and force the attacking army to take a fortress by force rather than allow a siege to end in surrender, saving countless lives?"

His brother seated himself, waiting for a response. Kallias eyed his brother thoughtfully. It wasn't like him to lay his cards on the table. Soon enough his attention was drawn by the conversation of the people around him. He grinned at the Ashkara in excitement.

"Oh, I haven ever met a djinn or naga before. That is quite... fascinating," Kallias said, unknowingly imitating his Fae twin. He bowed his head in greeting.

"I am Kallias by the way, prince of Drake. I always wanted to visit Ashkara."

He grinned at the way Kiran and Xiao were quite taken with each other. It was a nice occurence in a conference that was getting far too serious.

The Blue Faery, Valen and Zexen nodded and smiled politely with the greetings from the Princes of Ashkara. Blue sensed energy strong in magic in the room yet it did not come from any of the magically capable currently present in the room. He turned to look toward the far end of the table and saw nothing but someone or something may have been present there. Valen turned toward Blue and quietly asked, “I suppose you feel it too?” Blue responded, ”Indeed I do. I don’t think there is too much need for concern. Perhaps it’s a guest that doesn’t desire to make their presence known yet.” Valen nodded in response at decided not to act.

Zexen smiled quietly as he looked to Kalias and Severyn who looked like brothers. Zexen wished he had a brother, he figured he would have felt less lonely growing up had he had a sibling about. Then again who knows, they could have ended up hating each other. Xiao and Kiran seemed to be in their own world. It was nice, to see. Zexen had a flicker of sadness show on his face as he thought back to the friend he came to love and eventually lost to death. He hoped this budding young couple would never have to endure the pain he had. With that thought, a smile re-emerged onto his face.

Arkaelus addressed the group gathered together in the hall. "I have called for you all to gather here under the pretense of trade. Trade is something the benefits all of our nations and provides great wealth. I would like to propose a Free Trade Agreement between nations. Under this agreement import quotas, tariffs, and embargoes will become illegal. Markets will be deregulated so that our citizens may trade what they wish to whomever the please in any amount they so desire."

Valen and Zexen listened intently. Blue sat quietly as the Wishing Star Faeries interacted with mortals on the basis of wish granting and miracle bringing. What they had to give was much different than anything a king or Queen of any nation could offer. However it was important for him to be present, as how the nations traded with one another greatly affected the state of being for the people of the world. That in and of itself was of the utmost importance to Father Superior.

Arkaelus continued,"Furthermore during wartime neutral trade vehicles shall not be harmed or stopped. Blockades may not prevent their target from accessing food as well."

Valen pondered deeply of the many implications such an arrangement would create. He was all for free trade however war was a different matter. If a merchant desired to trade with an unfriendly nation he felt the kingdom should most definitely have a say in the matter. He held his comments for a few moments.

Moloch, after standing to address the gathered royals and ambassadors, "Drake will be happy to ratify any agreement nullifying archaic practices such as tariffs, quotas, and embargoes. The free competition of business has long served Drake well. It is also an act of supreme humanity to protect neutral trade vehicles. However, the sole purpose of a blockade in a lawfully declared war is to prevent the enemy from accessing the goods they need to prolong the conflict. That includes food as well. Drake is prepared to agree to the cessation of unlawful blockades in peace time, but I confess that I am puzzled. Can anyone tell me why it is preferable lengthen a siege and force the attacking army to take a fortress by force rather than allow a siege to end in surrender, saving countless lives?"




Amelia had set out from Vinay Del Zexay quite behind schedule. Parliament heads attempted to keep her busy enough that she would miss the summit altogether. They weren’t at all please to hear about a trade summit that would mainly work in the favor of the merchant’s guild. Parliament often treated the merchant’s guild like enemies.



Amelia sat in her carriage thinking on her objectives for attending the summit. Trade was most definitely and important prospect but the prophecy she received was more of a pressing matter to her. She knew trouble was brewing in the air and she wanted no surprises as to its roots, for her kingdom’s sake. She had arrived and was greeted most graciously by the officials of Khalidor. They weren’t expecting the Queen of Vinay Del Zexay to attend due to her tardiness. She was lead down the grand hallway into the Grand Hall.



The Herald announced her arrival, “Presenting to King Arkaelus and Majesties, Queen Amelia Berlin of Vinay Del Zexay.”

Amelia happened to overhear the proposition made by King Arkaelus and the response made by King Moloch Markus. She had only lain eyes on Moloch once before at a royal arts Galla held by the late King of Vinay Del Zexay. She was happily married then, seeing Moloch and Kalias was a reminder of that time. Her porcelain doll like eyes gave an acknowledging glance to each person present in the room. She also couldn’t help but look to the far end of the table that was vacant. The air there flowed in a manner that said that someone should be there but they weren’t.

As Amelia gracefully approached the group she saw a few other familiar faces. Valen and Zexen were both familiar to her. Valen was a leader she interacted with fairly often as their nations traded frequently. She also met him years ago before she became queen, back when she was a mere court magician. He offered her a chance to immigrate to Valen Alus, to save her from a life of solitude and servitude as a court magician. She respectfully declined the invitation on the premise that although she was unhappy, her gifts were needed by the people of the country so she could not abandon them. Valen always respected her choice and soon afterwards events would lead her to become Queen of Vinay Del Zexay. Little did she know that Valen had a role in making those events happen.



The Fae of Anansai were a sight to behold. She had met Father Superior on an occasion when she was grieving over the loss of her husband the king. She expressed great fear that she hadn’t the ability to be a leader and to gain the love and trust of the king’s people without him. She remembered Blue reassuring her that her becoming Queen was destiny and that the King’s trust in her capability was not misplaced. She never could forget hugging the Blue Faery and sobbing into his chest. She flashed an embarrassed smile his way and a nod.

The Empress of Anansai she had never seen before. She was beautiful and other worldly. The tall and strikingly handsome elf next to her caught her eyes as she had never quite seen a man of such rare beauty. She almost felt jealous, which the thought made her want to chuckle to herself. However she managed to keep her expression from altering. She noted the unnaturally close resemblance he bore to Prince Kalias and it perplexed her. There was a young fae woman of bright beauty and spirit. She had the energy of a carefree little girl. Amelia smiled immediately while looking her way, there was no helping it.

The Princes of Askara were very striking and regal in their appearance. She had only ever heard of the Kingdom but never had she been or met anyone from there. They gave off a warm magical signature. It was intriguing. The Royals of Cinnabar were two faces Amelia had also encountered before. Her nation was neighbor to Cinnabar and She on an occasion would send books back and forth to Princess Aada that she thought were interesting reads. The two started doing this when it was discovered that they were both avid readers. Also among the group were a man who seemed improperly dressed for the occasion and an obscure woman. Upon closer inspection this strange woman was frightfully off putting in appearance and movement. Amelia averted her eyes soon after taking a good look at her. She didn’t want to be rude but her expression would only grow worse had she continued to stare.

Amelia curtsied before the nobles. And spoke with a regal and confident air in her voice. ”Greetings majesties. I humbly apologize for my extreme tardiness. Intend no disrespect by it. Thank you for inviting me to your beautiful kingdom. I wish you all favor in your negotiations today.”

Valen was glad to see her at the summit. He nodded with a smooth smile, ”Queen Berlin, it is always a pleasure to be in your presence.”



She took a seat near King Arim, Princess Aada, King Moloch, Prince Kalias and the Ashkara Princes. ”Now, pleasantries aside, regarding your proposal King Arkaelus, I am inclined to agree with King Moloch. Free trade is a progressive move that is crucial to made. However nothing should be without careful and fair regulation. A foreign merchant given trust to come and go without precaution creates room for a grave error. My husband suffered death because of a similar policy involving merchants. I care not to repeat that mistake.”

The King’s cousin and Grand General of Khalidor Dorian spoke in response to the opposition Arkaelus’ proposition received. "A blockade works against small, unprepared cities. However, that is not the case in situations where the commanders of fortified and well defended cities are determined to hold onto what they have until the very last moment. In those situations housing can be demolished to feed the forges, civilian metals can be reforged into weaponry, and food is always prioritized on the soldiers and the aristocracy. The commoners are left to fend for themselves. First they they strip the city of pets, then leather becomes an attractive commodity, eventually human flesh is the staple. After awhile plague hits the city, killing hundreds in it's wake. The holding force decide to send a waves of citizens out to the slaughter to ease the ration demand. When the city finally breaks, giving in to the enemy, it is but a shadow of its former state, taking generations to become productive again.”

Amelia sat listening to the Grand General’s rationale. Dorian continued. “We all represent the most powerful nations in the world. Should war break out between any of our nations, the aftermath would be grave. Without new laws of war, areas that were once productive trade centers will be reduced to invaluable population hubs. Soldiers and kings are easily replaceable, however, that's not the case with cities."


Amelia couldn’t believe her ears. For this man to say without conscience that soldiers and kings are easily replaced was appalling to her. She didn’t know if he was aware of her story and how she came to be queen of her nation, however that statement was twice as potent to her. She stood slowly to her feet as he prepared to respond to the general’s perspective.


”Kings and soldiers, in my humble opinion good sir, are not easily replaceable. Every life both common and noble is of equal value in their pricelessness. Kingdoms must be concerned with the welfare of their people at all times, including peacetime and wartime. During wartime rulers should do everything in their power to insure that the common citizen sees no or as little suffering as possible. Yes it may take much effort or expense but walls, homes, businesses can all be rebuilt. However lives cannot. The loss of the late King of Vinay Del Zexay, for example, was never an easy position to fill.” Amelia spoke firmly looking Dorian in the eyes.

Amelia continued as she turned to King Arkaelus, ”I respectfully offer another take on the flaws in your proposition. I assume you have heard of the Trojan horse tactic. Who is to say that a foreigner claiming to be a merchant is in fact who he says he is? He could easily be an assassin sent from abroad. Such a policy could threaten the safety of a kingdom if allowed without regulation in the interest of security. Furthermore war between nations is not simply a declaration on behalf of the rulers of a kingdom, but also of the kingdom as a whole, including its citizens. For a citizen of a kingdom to do trade with an enemy nation could easily be viewed as supporting the enemies cause which is commonly considered treason in most known kingdoms. How can any monarch agree to such a thing with a clear conscience that they are making a wise choice? Your majesty, your intentions are noble indeed and that I wholly admire and support. However noble intentions are not always seeds that bear fruit to promising outcomes. As the second portion of your proposition stands, Vinay Del Zexay cannot agree to said proposition.”

Amelia sat down once again after giving a polite bow to both gentlemen. Amelia hoped to convey her sincerity. She was ultimately in the interest of peace. However she knew that peace was never to last forever. Negotiations like this were crucial to paving the way for how countries survived during times of distress. Any agreements made needed to be solid in nature. There was no room for error now.

Fiona had lounged somewhat as the debate between the others in the chamber raged around her, partaking in the wine and mulling over what had been offered. Despite this suggestion seeming reasonable at first glance she could certainly see why the others were unsure of it since if her history could be trusted each of the nations of the world had attempted, some with success and others not, to invade one another multiple times over their existence. Her own had certainly maintained a name in those wars however she would be the first to admit that her knowledge of recent years were sketchy at best since Kythianna had withdrawn from public affairs long before her birth and as such it even if open conflict would be rather unlikely she couldn’t exactly rule it out.

As she stared around the room at each of the assembled leaders she tried her best to study them, however she was a little unsure of each due to having only recently tried to study them and she alas could not place a name with every face especially if those other than the ruler themselves had made an appearance. Either way however the discussion was beginning to trouble her and she felt it was time she voiced her own side, though the fact she was giving one would cause enough trouble of its own let alone what she was about to say.

Closing her eyes she focused for a moment and felt, if only to herself, a faint click and knew she was no longer masked by humanities nature to ignore what they can’t easily explain. Opening them again and clearing her throat she called out to those present, her voice softly spoken but carrying well within the chamber. As she spoke it was almost as if it were taking place during an almost perfectly timed moment of silence between the various dignitaries which only added to the sudden arrival of an unknown entity.

”Well as wonderful as this has been so far I’d like to raise a couple of points if I may.”

Without deigning to wait for a reply to her almost rhetorical statement she plunged on into her thoughts on not only the proposition but the event itself.

”Firstly let me say that it’s certainly a change to be here with you all on such a pleasant evening but if I’d actually been invited I’d quite likely take umbrage at having been invited here to discuss trade but have it actually seem to be a cover under which another nation could dictate the foreign and wartime policies of its neighbours. That’s just me you understand and as I wasn’t technically invited I suppose I can’t very well complain now can I? Though my dear Arkaelus, you are a king after all so it is to be expected. “

She paused for the merest heartbeat to incline her head towards Arkaelus, the gesture itself was so slight it could have meant almost anything from respect to be almost mocking.

”But yes, overall a trade agreement between us all would certainly be of benefit and I doubt any of us here have an issue with that otherwise we wouldn’t be here. What with that being the reason you arranged this whole affair in the first place. However in regards to your ‘suggestion’ about embargoes I can certainly see issues arising as have already been stated. Though a solution, quite a simple one if applying it to wartime would be to allow the free passage of food but to blockade everything else and for all vessels in and out to be screened by a third party who are not themselves part of the conflict. Perhaps not ideal but if the only trade going in or out is that of food going in then little conflict could arise from it. Unless the food is subsequently poisoned and then of course the streets would run red with blood.”

Very carefully she lifted her glass in salute before draining what remained and pouring herself another. Her staff almost seemed to turn to look at all those assembled, without ever actually moving. Or for that matter having eyes.

Nemu weathered the Fae Queens scathing threats but otherwise said nothing, only silently accepting the proffered wine from Lord Dorian with a respectful bow of her head.
The arranged lords pattered out greetings and titles, then moved on to arguing over the merits of trade, wartime events and contracts. The subjects of which held little interest for Nemu or her master. Should there be war, Her master would side with those who paid his fee, and slaughter those who opposed him, he had little need for wartime treatise and approved battlefield conduct. Although she agreed with King Arkaelus' statements of the replaceable nature of kings and soldiers. All life was replaceable. It was one of the few resources that self propagated at such a rate that culling was frequently necessary. They were also one of the more interesting and useful resources around. Some late arrival Queen dismissed the kings comments sharply, applying an unrealistic value to the lives of men. Another Queen, one whom quite disconcertingly Nemu had not noticed arrive, also criticized the Kings proposals, though she offered no counter solution. Nemu was swiftly growing tired of the pointlessness of these nobels and their incessant babbling.
"And pray tell, good lady, who would be this third party? You? My master? The Fae? Arkaelus himself? How can you be sure of any of these parties allegiance. Wars are only half won on the battlefield, intrigue is as necessary as armies." She turned to the Queen Berlin, who has seemingly resolved to refuse to look upon Nemu's form.
"And you, Lady Berlin, you place the lives of mere men above structures and establishments, as if they had some inherent worth. There is not a single resource on the plant more bountiful than the human form, or more malleable. And pray tell, when you expend your cities, your lands and your resources in the act of protecting you precious human lives, what will be left for them to return to? Will they survive? With no food, no shelter, no protection from the armies that ravish your lands?"
She sat in one of the plush chairs around the table, and took a contemptuous sip of her wine.
"If you expend your lands in defence of your people, both will perish. If you expend your people to protect your lands, well..." She took another sip, "Castles cannot reproduce."

As the summit’s talks continued onward the anomaly that was the far in of the table made itself, rather herself known to the rest of the group. As she suddenly appeared out of thin air the others turned to identify the source of the new voice. Blue looked calmly as he knew there was someone there but he wasn’t sure whom until now. Valen’s eyes narrowed in on the mysterious woman that appeared. He turned to Blue and spoke, “I suppose you haven’t lost any of that classic sharpness in your old age.” He grinned. Blue simply gave a huff and rolled his eyes in response.

The woman spoke, ”Well as wonderful as this has been so far I’d like to raise a couple of points if I may.” She began and only briefly paused before she continued. Firstly let me say that it’s certainly a change to be here with you all on such a pleasant evening but if I’d actually been invited I’d quite likely take umbrage at having been invited here to discuss trade but have it actually seem to be a cover under which another nation could dictate the foreign and wartime policies of its neighbours. That’s just me you understand and as I wasn’t technically invited I suppose I can’t very well complain now can I? Though my dear Arkaelus, you are a king after all so it is to be expected. “ She paused for the merest heartbeat to incline her head towards Arkaelus, the gesture itself was so slight it could have meant almost anything from respect to be almost mocking.

The beautiful and mysterious woman continued. ”But yes, overall a trade agreement between us all would certainly be of benefit and I doubt any of us here have an issue with that otherwise we wouldn’t be here. What with that being the reason you arranged this whole affair in the first place. However in regards to your ‘suggestion’ about embargoes I can certainly see issues arising as have already been stated. Though a solution, quite a simple one if applying it to wartime would be to allow the free passage of food but to blockade everything else and for all vessels in and out to be screened by a third party who are not themselves part of the conflict. Perhaps not ideal but if the only trade going in or out is that of food going in then little conflict could arise from it. Unless the food is subsequently poisoned and then of course the streets would run red with blood.”


Amelia smiled to hear the new guests’ perspective. She offered a good amendment suggestion for the proposition. She gave a cosigning nod in response to Fiona whose name she knew not. Father Superior like the sound of this suggestion, it was objective. He was considering being that third party seeing that he and the wishing star faeries were one of the most alliance neutral clans in the known world. This would be a way to help kingdoms work together toward good.

No sooner did the mysterious woman finish speaking did Nemu suddenly chime into the dialogue. She had seemed rather disinterested previously but now it seemed that she caught interest. "And pray tell, good lady, who would be this third party? You? My master? The Fae? Arkaelus himself? How can you be sure of any of these parties allegiance? Wars are only half won on the battlefield, intrigue is as necessary as armies." Nemu then turned to the Queen Berlin. Amelia looked upon the obscure and apparently tortured being somewhat surprised that it wanted to address her. Amelia took a deep breath in preparation of what was to come.

"And you, Lady Berlin, you place the lives of mere men above structures and establishments, as if they had some inherent worth. There is not a single resource on the plant more bountiful than the human form, or more malleable. And pray tell, when you expend your cities, your lands and your resources in the act of protecting you precious human lives, what will be left for them to return to? Will they survive? With no food, no shelter, no protection from the armies that ravish your lands?" Nemu sat in one of the plush chairs around the table, and took a contemptuous sip of her wine. "If you expend your lands in defense of your people, both will perish. If you expend your people to protect your lands, well..." She took another sip, "Castles cannot reproduce." The obscure woman finished.

Amelia was once again baffled by the single minded nature of the perspectives on this proposition. She understood that a kingdom could be at war with one nation or more, not trade with said nation or nations, yet still maintain allies with other nations and trade with them. Nothing was cut and dry most of all not war. She was about to respond, gripping the arm rests of her chair in preparation to stand. However before she could do so, Father Superior stood to his feet. He shot a glance toward Nemu.



Father Superior looked toward King Arkaelus, in a more humbled and calm manner, and the mysterious woman that appeared suddenly and spoke. “If the 2nd proposition on trade is to be amended in the manner that the unnamed guest suggests, I would like to volunteer the Wishing Star Faeries of Anansai to undertake the task of being the assisting third party. We have been known to the world over for centuries as upholders of all that is good and light in the world. This is a matter that we could do with fairness and concern for all parties involved. Our magic allows us to travel with the utmost ease globally and to detect darkness such as poisons in most anything. Faery magic is the purest magic of all. You’ll not find a more ideal candidate.”

Father Superior then addressed Nemu. “Lady Nemu,” he began sternly. ”What gives you of all creatures within this world the right to mockingly assess the worth of mortal life? You have been so far removed from any speckle of humanity by Tsarvin Sphex you’ve not a clue of the truth of life and its value. Your master deals in death and the perversion of creation. You down to your very physical body are a testament of your ignorance of the truth of life’s value, as well as the misfortune that has warped your very essence.”

Amelia spoke stood once again and approached Father Superior. She placed her hand gently on his arm in an attempt to calm him some. She could see that Nemu’s origins were indeed a troubling matter to The Blue Faery. Amelia knew very little of the wastes or of Tsarvin Sphex other than childhood stories that the old mages would tell to spoke her as a child. However it mattered not. ”Lady Nemu, I can only speak to what I believe is true. I will answer your question to the best of my ability and honestly. Hypothetically speaking if my lands were overtaken by an enemy, I would do everything in my power to protect and safeguard my people and their lives. If that means fleeing then so be it. If I can save even only but a few from harm then I have not lost my kingdom. I believe the kingdom in truth is the heart of the people, not the soil that castles and houses are forged upon. We may have little in the end, we may have nothing but our lives, however much they are worth. However as long as we have those we have a chance to grow anew and thrive.”

Amelia looked to Father Superior who stood firm in place never allowing his gaze to break from Nemu. He was looking at a misguided minion of darkness. He understood his Empress’ adamant protests in full. She stepped in front of him into his line of sight. “Father Superior judge her words not. She is only giving her opinion and what she believes to be true just like I have. We shouldn’t reprimand her for voicing her concerns no matter how upsetting they may be. She then turned to King Arkaelus and addressed him with a polite nod. [b]”King Arkaelus, Vinay Del Zexay would be willing to consider and accept the 2nd proposition for trade with the suggested amendment should we vote on amending it. Thank you for being willing to hear out this humble queen’s opinion.” She honestly didn’t intend to give the man a hard time. She only wanted to be thorough.

Arim listened, curious as to what those gathered would make of Nemu. If the stories were true, and the darkness surrounding this woman, were anything to go by, Cinnabar would do well to stay away. And yet...No. Arim cast the thought from his mind before it had time to form. Such darkness could never be welcomed in Cinnabar, not while he was king. Even Aada could support him in that.

Aada looked to her brother when the Princes of Ashkara were announced. Another reminder, he supposed. There was little he knew about the South. His tutors had rarely spoken of it. Only Bastian had ever mentioned it, and even then, it was in passing. Perhaps it would be worth at least finding something out about Ashkara. Only then would he be able to discover if it was worth his time cementing an alliance with them.

“STOP!" Zexen's voice rang across the hall.

Arim looked away from Aada to see a hail of bullets hovering around Nemu. The magic surrounding them was unfamiliar. Unless Aada had learned some new tricks, she wasn't behind this. Arim shook his head. The Fae. He might soon get used to the fact that they were no longer at home. That meant that he and Aada weren't the only people adept at wielding magic.

Zexen stepped forward, asking them all to give Nemu a chance. Arim saw Aada step closer to Moloch from the corner of his eye. Of course she would go to the first man who paid her any attention here.

"It has been rumored that your master accepts slaves. Such serious accusations usually hold a kernel of truth. As such I cannot have you treat with us within the palace. However, you may go to the gardens and any who wish to speak to you may see you there. That is my only offer." Arkaelus said in response to Zexen's plea.

As the commotion died down, Moloch returned his attention to Aada, "I would be happy to tell you about my homeland. Would you like a drink? A little wine does wonders to ease the shock from... unexpected guests."

"I am far ahead of you, Your Grace," Cyrus said with a sigh, "I believe I will be drinking a bottle of Cinnabar Red myself."

Aada gathered her wits, pressing down on the feeling of wrongness settling in her gut. The sooner she was away from Lady Nemu, the better, though she did pity the woman. She had not chosen this life for herself, few ever would unless the alternative was worse. But that darkness, it felt all-consuming, like it would crush anything that dare stand in its way.

"A fine choice." Aada smiled , masking her unease, "I think we could all do with some wine. It appears that this summit will be a lot more interesting than we first though." she said, silently inviting Arim to join them. Arim stayed back a little as they made their way to the table. He had little desire to watch the King of Drake flirting with his sister.

"I have called for you all to gather here under the pretense of trade. Trade is something the benefits all of our nations and provides great wealth. I would like to propose a Free Trade Agreement between nations. Under this agreement import quotas, tariffs, and embargoes will become illegal. Markets will be deregulated so that our citizens may trade what they wish to whomever the please in any amount they so desire," Arkaelus announced. "Furthermore during wartime neutral trade vehicles shall not be harmed or stopped. Blockades may not prevent their target from accessing food as well."

Aada stiffened at the addition to Arkaelus's announcement. Surely, the banishment of blockades would only prolong wars. While that might appear a good thing for the nation under attack, a prolonging of the war would only mean more lives lost and ruined. in the long run. To agree to such a thing would be madness. Blockades were ugly things, but they often ensured a quick surrender. How long would it be before trade ships began hiding tools and weapons among the food? Aada took a sip of her wine. She couldn't say anything, it was not her place, it was Arim's.

"Drake will be happy to ratify any agreement nullifying archaic practices such as tariffs, quotas, and embargoes. The free competition of business has long served Drake well. It is also an act of supreme humanity to protect neutral trade vehicles. However, the sole purpose of a blockade in a lawfully declared war is to prevent the enemy from accessing the goods they need to prolong the conflict. That includes food as well.
"Drake is prepared to agree to the cessation of unlawful blockades in peace time, but I confess that I am puzzled. Can anyone tell me why it is preferable lengthen a siege and force the attacking army to take a fortress by force rather than allow a siege to end in surrender, saving countless lives?"

Handsome and intelligent. Aada was starting to like King Moloch more and more. The doors opened and Queen Berlin was introduced to the gathering. Aada was fond of the woman and had made a point of remaining in close contact with her, especially when her correspondence came with such wonderful recommendations. Asking Arim which books he had enjoyed often lead to disappointment. His tastes were much drier than Aada's. She took a seat near Arim. ”Now, pleasantries aside, regarding your proposal King Arkaelus, I am inclined to agree with King Moloch. Free trade is a progressive move that is crucial to made. However nothing should be without careful and fair regulation. A foreign merchant given trust to come and go without precaution creates room for a grave error. My husband suffered death because of a similar policy involving merchants. I care not to repeat that mistake.”

Dorian, Arkaelus's general, if Aada wasn't mistaken, stood. "A blockade works against small, unprepared cities. However, that is not the case in situations where the commanders of fortified and well defended cities are determined to hold onto what they have until the very last moment. In those situations housing can be demolished to feed the forges, civilian metals can be reforged into weaponry, and food is always prioritized on the soldiers and the aristocracy. The commoners are left to fend for themselves. First they they strip the city of pets, then leather becomes an attractive commodity, eventually human flesh is the staple. After awhile plague hits the city, killing hundreds in it's wake. The holding force decide to send a waves of citizens out to the slaughter to ease the ration demand. When the city finally breaks, giving in to the enemy, it is but a shadow of its former state, taking generations to become productive again. We all represent the most powerful nations in the world. Should war break out between any of our nations, the aftermath would be grave. Without new laws of war, areas that were once productive trade centers will be reduced to invaluable population hubs. Soldiers and kings are easily replaceable, however, that's not the case with cities."

Aada pulled her bottom lip through her teeth. He would side with his king on this. She looked to Arim briefly, before returning her gaze to King Moloch, knowing what was about to come. Queen Amelia did not disappoint. Her argument held a great deal of intelligence. Aada and her brother had been taught that a King was the servant of his people, as much as they were a servant to him. No life was without worth.

A woman appeared out of thin air. Aada rolled her eyes. This was just getting absurd now. If she had been informed that morning that she was to be attending a trade summit with Fae, a fairy tale and a woman who appeared from thin air, only for it all to then be an attempt to control war policy, she would have laughed. She, too, appeared to have issue with Arkaelus's very idealistic policy.

Arim listened to the debate around him. He wished he had brought Bastian with him now. He would know how to maneuver these people, "If I may offer my thoughts," he said when it had quietened down, "While Cinnabar might agree with the abolition of quotas and embargoes in principle, truly Free Trade would make it all too easy for material support to fall to darker causes. By all means, allow for the relaxation of trade laws, but complete and global free trade will rarely work in any nation's favour. Why would we choose to support our allies and our enemies at the same time? Let each nation choose for themselves who they will trade with. So long as you have a good relationship with your allies, your only concern should be the weather with regards to trade.
"As for your proposals for blockades, it is far too neat, Your Majesty. Wars are messy businesses, as I'm sure everyone at this table is aware, and neat solutions rarely work. Barring blockades would only lead to greater losses, on both sides of the conflict. As for the plans to have the Wishing Faeries inspect ships, how will they cope with weapons smuggled in? The Fae's weakness to iron is well known. If we are to agree to this, we must consider every eventuality."

Aada's mouth felt dry. She took a sip of her wine. If she had seen the words written down on paper, she could have sworn they had tumbled from her father's mouth. Or even Bastian, though her brother lacked Bastian's cool self-assurance. It was disquieting to think that her brother might end up like her father. She refilled her glass. Surely her brother had been shielded from the worst of their father. She linked her hands together, waiting for the reaction to her brother's statement.

Kiran's smile faltered, a flicker of horror passing through his features at Jingshen's words. He looked down at her sleeved arm, then back at his. "I-I'm sorry, I hadn't known. I should've been more careful." He stammered and, noticing the way Jingshen's eyes flicked towards his brother, quickly added, "He didn't mean it. He was just...worried." He explained, although he was quite sure that wasn't the case. But even then, Kiran didn't want Akhil to incur the Faes' displeasure—even if he did burn him on purpose. "Are you sure you're all right?" He asked, worry evident in his tone. Even if she did say it didn't pain her, he still had to make sure of it. It was his own foolishness that caused it, after all.

And then, to his great surprise, the Empress herself turned his way, addressing him with a gentle smile. "I should thank you, for protecting my sister, she is very dear to me." Kiran fought hard not to flush. "There's no need to thank me, Your Grace." He said quietly, "It was my pleasure, really." His gaze moved back to Jingshen as he spoke, and there was no mistaking the way his smile softened at the sight of the Fae.

All the while Skandar sat listening, looking increasingly puzzled at the exchange. However, the Empress of the Fae shifted her attention towards them just as he was about to ask, and his face once again settled into its usual mask. The Empress—Tenanye—introduced them to her companions: the Princess Xiao Jingshen with her delicate features and her kind eyes (which, he observed, were focused on Kiran the entire time); and Severyn, Prince of the Seelie. He gave each of them a polite nod, but said nothing.

Akhil, however, was all smiles; tearing his attention away from the goblet of wine he'd been nursing in order to face the Faeries. "As are we. It is not so often that the Faeries of Anansai venture out into the mortal world. We are most fortunate to be in your presence." He answered silkily. Skandar had to suppress a scoff, remembering his brother's words earlier at the ship—"The fae are far too busy stealing children and talking to trees and such to venture out of their flowerbuds for something as inconsequential as a trade summit." Akhil had said. Now Skandar watched him from the corner of his eye, privately delighting in seeing his idiot brother eat his words.

He noticed a strange look crossing the Empress' features for a moment, and was rather surprised at her observation. It was true that they had magic in their veins—after all, what was the ability to produce flames out of thin air or control vipers if not magical? However, it was most probably the Ifreet in them that she sensed. Ifreets, while notorious for their mischief, made very powerful sorcerers—so much so that they were constantly mistaken for Unseelie Fae (a claim that Skandar thinks might hold a shed of truth, as there have been theories saying that Ifreets evolved from a species of Fae that somehow made its way south).

Akhil was positively thrilled at being recognised, if the rather smug grin he wore was to be judged, but when the Empress turned her sights towards Skandar...well. All the Serpent Prince could give was a brief smirk, a nod, and a look in his eyes that promised more.

--

Kiran ducked his head in response, giving the Empress a smile before returning to Jingshen, "If it is the tendency to wander off, then yes, I believe we do have something in common." He grinned, obviously taken with the younger Fae. "Is this truly your first time out of Anansai?" He asked her, once again oblivious to the going-ons of the rest of the room.

Akhil in turn was rather stunned at the revelation. So that's why his brother and the Empress' sister were so friendly. He couldn't believe that his brother of all people had been lucky enough to cross paths with, and even rescue a Faery, let alone the Empress of Anansai's sister. To have a Fae indebted to a mortal was quite...remarkable. Very remarkable indeed. Knowing that, he almost—almost—felt guilty for giving Kiran that burn.

"That is...quite a substantial offer, your grace." He murmured, and it was true. An alliance with the Fae would be most marvelous. But, considering their current companions, he decided that this simply was something far too important to be discussed where others might hear. "Perhaps later, in private, we might discuss it, yes?" He added in a much quieter tone.

Akhil then shifted his sights to a dark-haired young man who seemed quite eager to see them. He noted with a raised eyebrow the way he very closely resembled Prince Severyn of the Seelie, and he flicked his eyes between the both of them a few times to make sure. Yes, they definitely did look rather identical, but he decided not to comment on it further as the two had most likely been on the receiving end of such queries all morning.

"Ah, the one they call the Dragon Prince, if I'm not mistaken." He drawled, pleased to learn that the rumours about Drake's attendance had indeed been true. "I should say the same to you." He told him, "From what I've heard, Drake City is quite extraordinary." He'd always been rather fascinated by Drake, particularly the dragons that used to roam the skies above it. The mere notion of monstrous beasts bathed in fire was enough to captivate him as a child, and it had always been a favourite game of his to pretend to be a dragon and shoot fireballs—and later, when he'd learned how, actually breathe fire—at his playmates (who were also Djinn, of course, because if not, they'd automatically be burned to a crisp). He had been looking forward to an audience with the Dragon King, but as they had yet to meet, his younger brother have to suffice.

--

As his brothers made conversation, Skandar took it upon himself to play observer to the rest of the delegates. That was their purpose in the first place: to observe, take note of Northern politics, and maybe even learn something out of it. The acquiring of additional trade partners would merely be an added bonus to their primary objective. So, when words started flying and exchanges became more heated, Skandar only sat back, not deigning to add to any of the arguments many of the monarchs presented.

He took idle sips at his wine, his eyes sparked with interest as they swept across the room. Two more had just arrived: Amelia, the Queen of Vinay del Zexay, and yet another woman. Though he hadn't the slightest as to who she was and which kingdom she represented, he would be hard pressed to deny that he was...intrigued...by her. He had noticed her early on—he wouldn't make a very good serpent if he missed her—but saw no pressing need to indicate his knowledge of presence.

She was quite articulate; no doubt someone of high birth. Perhaps even a Queen. But she spoke in a rather flippant fashion, while everyone else maintained a more refined tone—bar the horrid-looking woman from earlier, of course. Though he had to admit, he found her rebuttal quite sensible.

The Blue Faery, however, didn't seem to share his sentiments.

As the Fae prattled on about the sanctity of life or whatever it was that rankled him so much, Skandar was busy assessing the woman—or 'Lady Nemu', as they called her—with narrowed eyes.

So she was Sphex's. Well. That certainly wasn't a surprise, given her grotesque appearance. A child of the Waste. No wonder her presence had been treated with so much contempt. He made a note to speak to her afterwards, and gave her a final once-over, before returning to the current proceedings.

It seemed the Fae had finally ceased his little tirade. Skandar had begun to find his preaching rather tedious—not that he thought any better of his little Queen friend either. He could never really stomach the overly-sanctimonious.

A faint smile curled her lips as Nemu addressed her and she couldn’t help but tilt her head slightly as she conceded the point for a moment. However before she was able to think of a suitable replshoy the floor was taken by the group of magical creatures who had first piqued her interest when she first entered; with the faeries placing themselves as the noble choice as a neutral third party. The scathing manner in which they announced such to Nemu seemed a little uncalled for; even given her nature though her own tone towards herself and another within the hall were no less so. While she knew they would make respectable allies there was something deep within her veins which bred distrust of the envoys of Anansai, though she could not fully explain it for they seemed to exemplify purity in all its forms. Perhaps it was simply distrust of something so pristine on the principle that it’s hiding something. Sipping her wine slowly she almost missed the rather disgruntled comment from their host, who from his tone did not like the concept of his suggestion being thrown aside so readily.

”Where are my manners, of course. I am Lady Fionnaghal Pynchon, High Sage of Kythiania, here as representative of my lands, and her interests here following our age long absence from world affairs.”

As she spoke her name her voice took on a thicker accent than previously which persisted through the rest of her words before fading as she paused for breath.

”Now before your minds run rampant with whatever old wives tales that you heard when you were young, let me assure you that whatever mysteries that have been woven of my land they are equally likely to be fact as they are to be fiction. And unlike the Wasteland of Nemu our monsters are kept under control rather than left to roam free.”

She smiled to all in attendance and chuckled jovially to herself before taking another small sip of her wine. She looked across at the guards stationed around the room and something she’d noticed earlier came back to nag at her.

”Also Arkaelus given that your guards seem to be well trained if your general is anything by which to measure them I am rather perplexed by what can only be described as a lack of discipline given that upon my sudden appearance in their midst, especially within such close proximity to yourself, they did not once think to question such an arrival.”

Lifting her free hand in mock surrender she shook her head for a moment.

”Just like to make clear that I’m not wanting them to suddenly decide to rectify that lapse.”

Bowing her head to Arkaelus once more she reclined in her seat and withdrew from the conversation a little to await any response. Her gaze settled on a figure on the far side of the room, past that of those of Anansai where one of a trio stood apart. His attention had flickered to her a few times, both prior to her appearance and since. She’d be the first to admit she hadn’t really paid much attention to the all inhabitants of the room save for those who actively projected their magical aura beyond that of their natural presence. A trait she found a little cliché given that it was usually done to awe others or assert their own standing over others who were sensitive to such. She smiled a little to herself and decided to learn more about this perceptive man.

Fiona’s staff had ceased eyeing up all the members in the chamber and had instead simply begun to focus on Nemu alone while her attention was elsewhere, though this fact was mostly unnoticed by all present; after all it never moved and its expression could only be described as wooden.

It would seem that the summit had reached an impasse. Trade would be deregulated significantly, but the powers of the known world would not consent to another nation meddling in how they waged war. It was brave of Arkaelus to try, however, and the restriction would have burdened his nation more than anything. Moloch felt his respect for the other king increase slightly. He made a mental note to increase the stockpile of food and supplies at Ithaca when this summit was over. It was a pity. The Dragon King had hoped to goad his host in vowing uphold the treaty in its entirety before retracting his own opposition, but that was not to be.

He glanced at the beautiful woman at his side with a slight smile. He could tell that her brother wasn't pleased with the way they seemed to be interacting, but there wasn't much he could do. There was nothing scandalous about a foreign king and princess making small talk at a trade summit, after all, and Moloch was not like Kallias. He did not allow the whispers of the goddess Lila to cloud his judgement and create scandal.

"Thank you," he murmured as he took a goblet of wine from a bowing servant. He couldn't help but smirk as Cyrus himself took a whole bottle for himself as he promised. He studied her expression. She seemed troubled. He would have to inquire about that away from prying ears.

"What can you tell me about your magical studies? I confess, I have a bit of talent myself," he told her, sending heat into the hand holding his cup to warm his wine.



Kallias smiled at the Ashkara prince next to him, happy that he shared his own interest.

"Oh, Drake is magnificent. We are the center of culture: gladiator fights, theatre, the women... Oh, gods, we have the best women in the world and the markets are so exciting. Everything makes its way there eventually," he told Akhil with a roguish grin, "But I would love to visit Soltera. What are the people like there?"