The Phoenix Wedding (IC/FanT/Signups)

[Phaenix]

Phaerix, the Imperial Capital

OOC

It has been five years since Emperor Titus Helvius Venatius defeated his brother Marcus the Usurper, and since then he has ushered in an age of unprecedented technological advancements and prosperity. The Emperor also has been without an heir, and upon pressure from his council, decides to marry the previously unknown Antoniae Galvisia. Both the commoners and the nobility alike are stunned, especially the venerable Duke Friedger Wintersend, who was enraged upon hearing that his granddaughter, Wilfriede, would not be Empress. The wedding ceremony, however, has been promised to be the greatest event of the century, and while only the Empire's upper nobility and various foreign dignitaries will be allowed to attend the ceremony, the commonfolk of the Empire have been given permission to celebrate, with many taverns selling ale and mead for only one aeris.

Imperial Palace

Emperor Titus Helvius Venatius was in the Imperial Archives, having spent the last few days browsing the vast array of scrolls and tomes. He opened one, titled Nobiles Familiae ex Historia Imperii, and flipped to the section on the Galvisia family. As far as anyone in the Empire was concerned, such a family did not exist, and the only mention of them was one Gnaeus Iulius Galvisia owning a small farm on the Durikadi border centuries ago. The Emperor frowned, for he was concerned why his council had pushed him to marry an unknown woman who might not even be highborn. Antoniae's mannerisms were also strange. She would use Rohdari phrases, quote the Kniha Jednoty instead of the Libro Ignis, and even slip into High Gozari when excited. Everything pointed to her either being Rohdari or Gozari, or even being a spy for the Union, but Titus' council had demanded he marry her. Frustrated, he closed the book and returned to his quarters. On his way to his bedchamber, a sacerdos ran up to him.
"Your Imperial Majesty, Lord of Fire, Uniter of th-"
Titus waved his hand.
"Enough with the titles. I am tired and wish to return to my bed, so what is so important that it cannot wait until morning?"
The sacerdos grimaced and spoke once more.
"Well, as you know, tomorrow you will need to speak and mingle with the nobility and the foreign emissaries. I was instructed by His Holiness, may the Great Phoenix watch over him, to give you a brief summary of the attendees."
Titus pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed.
"Very well, tell me."
The sacerdos grinned and unfurled the scroll he held.
"Well, you know the nobles attending from our glorious Empire, so I'll skip them. First, the North Durikadi envoys Magmachin and Ironfall will be attending, along with Lord Brorgar Mineheart."
"I expect Lord Mineheart will be asking if I could spare some legionaries to send back with him?" Titus asked.
"Yes, your Imperial Majesty. Next, the barbarian-I mean Nrali High King and his huscarls will be attending."
Titus frowned once again.
"I already know they're attending. I sent the letter myself. Continue."
The sacerdos nodded and continued reading.
"Hmm, well next there's someone called John Henry Primrose and his bodyguard, Adam Butler. Says he's the son of a wealthy textile tycoon from the Atlantian Dominions. How they change leaders every four years I can't imagine."
Titus brightened for a brief moment.
"I do not know, but I hope this John Henry Primrose will help us work out a trade deal for textiles. Even though our silk is the envy of the world, the poor of the Empire are barely clothed."
The sacerdos nodded once again, though more to keep the conversation moving then out of sympathy for the poor.
"Well well, a man of religion. Says he's the leader of the Cult of Cthulhu. I don't know who Cthulhu is, but to be visited by such a prestigious man. I simply wish I he had a normal name. Gnaiigof'n ot Cthullu. Who would name their child that"
Titus sighed and shook his head, his crown nearly slipping off.
"I don't care what his parents were thinking, just finish the list already so I can rest."
The sacerdos almost scoffed, until he remembered he was speaking with the Emperor.
"Y-yes, your Imperial Majesty. Finally, we have Prince Argalaic of House Wend, from Kalmarnavia and Ser Dontas Greenbow."
Titus looked up once he heard the House Wend.
"A prince of Kalmarnavia? Is he married? I do believe my cousin Umbrenia is unmarried. To be allies with Kalmarnavia would allow us to crush those arrogant Rohdari and Gozari!"
The sacerdos, not wanting to upset the Emperor, spoke up once more.
"Your Imperial Majesty, the Prince Argalaic is betrothed to his second cousin, Lady Rachel of House Vasa."
Titus scoffed and rearranged his crown, as it had fallen off his head.
"Well, perhaps we can convince him the benefits of being related to an emperor, eh?"
The sacerdos nodded furiously and left as Titus returned to his quarters to rest.

[Kalmarnavia]

The sun was barely rising over the horizon, its first rays glancing off the gleaming white stone of the towers and spires of Phaerix as the great lumbering wheelhouse bounced its way along the road. The jolting tossed Prince Argalaic from his bunk with an audible cry.

"TWELVE PRESERVE US! What in Twelve Hells?"

Ser Dontus Greenbow has been awake for around an hour, and could not stifle his laughter.

"And good morning to you, my Prince. The Father Above has granted us another glorious dawn!"
"And may the Dark One Below take him and you, I was rather enjoying being asleep."

Argalaic hoisted himself from the floor, and opened one of the window slats. He looked out at the awakening city in the distance, rubbed sleep from his eyes, and yawned. It had been a long journey to this point- a week at sea aboard the Ventrice sailing round capes and mysterious foreign isles to reach Phaenix itself- the sight of the heavily armoured steel ship had been a novelty for the people of the sleepy port she had been anchored off, followed by a further week in a hired wheelhouse (which Argalaic had insisted upon, for he would not stoop to arriving on horseback). He knew it was the only way he, Ser Dontas, and the three Knights of the Nine that his father insisted accompany them - Ser Gerold Hogg, Ser Jace of the Hill and Ser Trevyn Highglass- were to reach the wedding of the Emperor. Had he been alone, he would have plotted an exotic course, and visited many strange and delightful places...and still arrived five days earlier, mounted on Styrax. What greater gift could I have bestowed upon the Emperor, than the sight of a child of the Blood mounted upon a dragon?

Argalaic slammed the slat shut, and opened a hatch next to it.

"Ser Gerold!" he called, to the tall man in black armour next to the wheelhouse. Ser Gerold Hogg, hailing from a storied family from the Dormish Marches, was the third highest ranking Knight of the Nine, the storied order of black armoured knights sword to defend the Royal family from all who would dare challenge them. He was in truth an uncooth dullard, and the Prince suspected his father has appointed him Argalaic's personal protector out of sheer spite.
"My prince?"
"Pray tell, how much longer until we reach the Imperial Palace? My arse can only take so much strain from this damned road."
"Not much, my Prince. Less than an hour until we reach the city, then possibly no more than a further hour to climb into it to the Palace. I'd put on my finery if I was you, my Prince."

Argalaic sniffed, and shut the hatch.

"Come now, Arge." Ser Dontas was already dressed in his finest tunic and boots, the green oak tree of his house embroidered skillfully on the front, "a few more hours and we'll be wine in hand regailing foreign princesses and ladies of our daring escapades...and you can brag about having a bloody dragon, that'll have them hoisting their skirts as always!"

Argalaic smiled, wryly.
"YOU are free for such carnal pursuits, my dear Dontas, but alas I am betrothed and saving my remaining honour for my Lady Rachel!"
"Pah- a flutter of the eyelashes from one of these foreigners and you'll be in and about it like a dog eating beetroot! They are a people of beauty here, they say...and no doubt some members of their high council would wish to sway you with marriage in exchange for a few fire-breathing winged behemoths on their side in a war..."
"I took vows, Dontas, and I am a child of the Blood."

Argalaic knotted the tough leather belt around his red tunic, slipping his dragon-head rings onto his fingers, and turned to his friend. Golden thread showed the crowned dragon of House Wend on his chest, red rubies inlaid for its eyes glinting. He tosseled his red hair, and ran his hands through his beard, and sat his ringlet of gold and inlaid rubies on his forehead.

"Thoughts?"
"You'll have the ladies pishing their frillies as always, Arge."
"...You really ought to see someone Dontas..."

A while later, the wheelhouse approached the gates of the city. The throngs of people entering and leaving parted at the cries of the knights riding ahead- Ser Gerold at the front mounted on a great white charger, Ser Jace and Ser Trevyn behind him each bearing a staff with the red and gold banner of House Wend, the crowned dragon snarling from each. A guardsman stepped in front, and raised his hand as if to question who dared come forth.

Ser Gerold answered, in a loud clear voice.

"We bear unto your city Argalaic, of the House Wend, Defender of the Dragon's Keep, Prince of Kalmarnavia, son of Jaeharys, of the House Wend, the First of his name, King of Kalmarnavia, Lord of the Six Realms, Ruler of the Skies and Defender of the Faith, descendant of Argalaic the Conqueror, of the blood of Eralia and the Blood of the Dragon. Pray stand aside, so we may pass without let or hindrance, and keep your Emperor's peace!"

The guardsman stared open mouthed, and stood aside as the driver cracked the whip and the great horses pulled the wheelhouse forth. The city pressed in on all sides, as did it's people as these foreign men rode on towards the Palace. Argalaic stared through window slats, grinning.

Within the hour, and after a repeat of the spiel at the gate, the wheelhouse came to a stop within the courtyard of the Palace. Ser Jace dismounted, and opened the door. Argalaic stepped out, the risen sun showing fire in his hair and a gleam in his eyes, followed swiftly by the hulking Ser Dontas, and awaited the greeting of the Emperor's men.

[Phaenix]

The sun was barely rising over the horizon, its first rays glancing off the gleaming white stone of the towers and spires of Phaerix as the great lumbering wheelhouse bounced its way along the road. The jolting tossed Prince Argalaic from his bunk with an audible cry.

"TWELVE PRESERVE US! What in Twelve Hells?"

Ser Dontus Greenbow has been awake for around an hour, and could not stifle his laughter.

"And good morning to you, my Prince. The Father Above has granted us another glorious dawn!"
"And may the Dark One Below take him and you, I was rather enjoying being asleep."

Argalaic hoisted himself from the floor, and opened one of the window slats. He looked out at the awakening city in the distance, rubbed sleep from his eyes, and yawned. It had been a long journey to this point- a week at sea aboard the Ventrice sailing round capes and mysterious foreign isles to reach Phaenix itself- the sight of the heavily armoured steel ship had been a novelty for the people of the sleepy port she had been anchored off, followed by a further week in a hired wheelhouse (which Argalaic had insisted upon, for he would not stoop to arriving on horseback). He knew it was the only way he, Ser Dontas, and the three Knights of the Nine that his father insisted accompany them - Ser Gerold Hogg, Ser Jace of the Hill and Ser Trevyn Highglass- were to reach the wedding of the Emperor. Had he been alone, he would have plotted an exotic course, and visited many strange and delightful places...and still arrived five days earlier, mounted on Styrax. What greater gift could I have bestowed upon the Emperor, than the sight of a child of the Blood mounted upon a dragon?

Argalaic slammed the slat shut, and opened a hatch next to it.

"Ser Gerold!" he called, to the tall man in black armour next to the wheelhouse. Ser Gerold Hogg, hailing from a storied family from the Dormish Marches, was the third highest ranking Knight of the Nine, the storied order of black armoured knights sword to defend the Royal family from all who would dare challenge them. He was in truth an uncooth dullard, and the Prince suspected his father has appointed him Argalaic's personal protector out of sheer spite.
"My prince?"
"Pray tell, how much longer until we reach the Imperial Palace? My arse can only take so much strain from this damned road."
"Not much, my Prince. Less than an hour until we reach the city, then possibly no more than a further hour to climb into it to the Palace. I'd put on my finery if I was you, my Prince."

Argalaic sniffed, and shut the hatch.

"Come now, Arge." Ser Dontas was already dressed in his finest tunic and boots, the green oak tree of his house embroidered skillfully on the front, "a few more hours and we'll be wine in hand regailing foreign princesses and ladies of our daring escapades...and you can brag about having a bloody dragon, that'll have them hoisting their skirts as always!"

Argalaic smiled, wryly.
"YOU are free for such carnal pursuits, my dear Dontas, but alas I am betrothed and saving my remaining honour for my Lady Rachel!"
"Pah- a flutter of the eyelashes from one of these foreigners and you'll be in and about it like a dog eating beetroot! They are a people of beauty here, they say...and no doubt some members of their high council would wish to sway you with marriage in exchange for a few fire-breathing winged behemoths on their side in a war..."
"I took vows, Dontas, and I am a child of the Blood."

Argalaic knotted the tough leather belt around his red tunic, slipping his dragon-head rings onto his fingers, and turned to his friend. Golden thread showed the crowned dragon of House Wend on his chest, red rubies inlaid for its eyes glinting. He tosseled his red hair, and ran his hands through his beard, and sat his ringlet of gold and inlaid rubies on his forehead.

"Thoughts?"
"You'll have the ladies pishing their frillies as always, Arge."
"...You really ought to see someone Dontas..."

A while later, the wheelhouse approached the gates of the city. The throngs of people entering and leaving parted at the cries of the knights riding ahead- Ser Gerold at the front mounted on a great white charger, Ser Jace and Ser Trevyn behind him each bearing a staff with the red and gold banner of House Wend, the crowned dragon snarling from each. A guardsman stepped in front, and raised his hand as if to question who dared come forth.

Ser Gerold answered, in a loud clear voice.

"We bear unto your city Argalaic, of the House Wend, Defender of the Dragon's Keep, Prince of Kalmarnavia, son of Jaeharys, of the House Wend, the First of his name, King of Kalmarnavia, Lord of the Six Realms, Ruler of the Skies and Defender of the Faith, descendant of Argalaic the Conqueror, of the blood of Eralia and the Blood of the Dragon. Pray stand aside, so we may pass without let or hindrance, and keep your Emperor's peace!"

The guardsman stared open mouthed, and stood aside as the driver cracked the whip and the great horses pulled the wheelhouse forth. The city pressed in on all sides, as did it's people as these foreign men rode on towards the Palace. Argalaic stared through window slats, grinning.

Within the hour, and after a repeat of the spiel at the gate, the wheelhouse came to a stop within the courtyard of the Palace. Ser Jace dismounted, and opened the door. Argalaic stepped out, the risen sun showing fire in his hair and a gleam in his eyes, followed swiftly by the hulking Ser Dontas, and awaited the greeting of the Emperor's men.

Imperial Palace, Courtyard

Emperor Titus had just finished reading the report one of his spies had given him about recent Jotur raids in the North when he heard the sound of wheels.
"That must be Prince Argalaic. Numeri, I believe you owe me ten aeris."
Titus spoke to the man standing beside him.
The Emperor's cousin, High General Numeri Antistium Septimi, scowled and tossed Titus a bag of aeris.
"Your damn Imperatoris Oculis et Auribus are infallible it seems, much to my pocketbook's dismay."
Titus grinned and donned his black steel crown and cloth-of-gold robes.
"Don't fret, cousin. Perhaps this foreign prince is a worse gambler than you."
Titus then called to his herald who stepped out of the palace before him and read off his titles.
"All hail his Imperial Majesty Titus Helvius Venatius, Lord of Fire, Uniter of the Empire, Marshal of the North, General Excelsis of the Sixteen Legions, and Emperor of Phaenix! Long live the Emperor!"
With his titles out of the way, Emperor Titus stepped out of the palace and looked down at Prince Argalaic and his retinue.
"Welcome, Prince Argalaic, to Phaerix and my home."

[Atlantian Dominions]

John Henry Primrose arrived in the harbor of Phaerix aboard the Mercy of Jesus, an International Trader ship which was sponsored by the Primrose family. The large cargo ship boasted a steel hull and four masts with square sails. It was the premiere model of ship available to International Traders, who were restricted by law from using steam engines to power their vessels. The ship wasn't as speedy as a clipper ship but it could hold vastly more cargo in its hull, and the Mercy of Jesus was loaded to the brim with Atlantian goods for sale. While John Henry Primrose was attending this "Phoenix Wedding" for the novelty of the event, his father Henry David Primrose had been insistent that he also advance the family business interests at the same time. The International Traders had never been to Phaenix before, which made it a virgin market ripe for the plucking. While John busied himself with merrymaking and chasing foreign skirts, the skipper of the Mercy of Jesus would be hard at work finding buyers for the ship's cargo, which included the staple Atlantian exports of foodstuffs, textiles, and manufactured goods. Whether by barter or by sale and purchase, the hope was that by the time John Henry Primrose boarded the Mercy of Jesus to sail home, its hold would be full of exotic foreign goods to sell back in the Atlantian Dominions.

None of this concerned the young scion of the Primrose family as he stood on the deck of the ship and watched the vessel sail into Phaerix harbor. He was a handsome man, with an artfully disheveled head of dark brown hair and a beard trimmed down to designer stubble. He wore trousers, a shirt, and a waistcoat vest of fine fabrics, hand-sewn by an artisan instead of mass-produced by some Indentured worker in a factory. When it was time to disembark he would put on a jacket and a straw boater hat. He withdrew a pocket watch, a small golden disk with a gold chain, clicked it open, and then closed it without checking the time.

"Getting antsy?"

John turned around to face Adam Barber, the baby-faced Gunslinger who had been assigned to accompany him on this excursion. It was hard to tell that the apprentice of Saul Andrews was in fact two years senior to John, for he was clean-shaven and generally looked like a younger man. His dress was similar to John's, except for the duster jacket that served as Adam's final outer layer and the bandolier holster that ran across his waist. The handle of his Buck revolver flashed a teasing glint as Adam's jacket rustled in the sea breeze.

"Excited to get off this boat and find out what sort of fun's in store," John answered. "Aren't you?"

Adam shrugged. "Guess so. I don't mind the ship." He didn't look it now, but the Gunslinger had been terribly sick when they'd first set sail from Grand Harbor. But he'd gotten accustomed to the roll of the ship during the voyage, and how he strolled the decks looking perfectly at home. John had hoped, on some level, that the man would be bedridden the whole time. He didn't need a chaperone or a shadow, no matter what his father or Saul Andrews said about the dangers of traveling abroad. He was going to be a guest of the emperor, it wasn't like he'd be spending his time in back alley brothels.

The ship found its space on the docks and tied up to the wharf. John met with the captain, complimented him on the speedy and uneventful voyage, and handed over a couple of silver dollars for his troubles. Then he and Adam descended the gangplank to figure out how to find their way to the palace, while the captain got his crew working preparing the ship's cargo for unloading and sale.

[Phaenix]

John Henry Primrose arrived in the harbor of Phaerix aboard the Mercy of Jesus, an International Trader ship which was sponsored by the Primrose family. The large cargo ship boasted a steel hull and four masts with square sails. It was the premiere model of ship available to International Traders, who were restricted by law from using steam engines to power their vessels. The ship wasn't as speedy as a clipper ship but it could hold vastly more cargo in its hull, and the Mercy of Jesus was loaded to the brim with Atlantian goods for sale. While John Henry Primrose was attending this "Phoenix Wedding" for the novelty of the event, his father Henry David Primrose had been insistent that he also advance the family business interests at the same time. The International Traders had never been to Phaenix before, which made it a virgin market ripe for the plucking. While John busied himself with merrymaking and chasing foreign skirts, the skipper of the Mercy of Jesus would be hard at work finding buyers for the ship's cargo, which included the staple Atlantian exports of foodstuffs, textiles, and manufactured goods. Whether by barter or by sale and purchase, the hope was that by the time John Henry Primrose boarded the Mercy of Jesus to sail home, its hold would be full of exotic foreign goods to sell back in the Atlantian Dominions.

None of this concerned the young scion of the Primrose family as he stood on the deck of the ship and watched the vessel sail into Phaerix harbor. He was a handsome man, with an artfully disheveled head of dark brown hair and a beard trimmed down to designer stubble. He wore trousers, a shirt, and a waistcoat vest of fine fabrics, hand-sewn by an artisan instead of mass-produced by some Indentured worker in a factory. When it was time to disembark he would put on a jacket and a straw boater hat. He withdrew a pocket watch, a small golden disk with a gold chain, clicked it open, and then closed it without checking the time.

"Getting antsy?"

John turned around to face Adam Barber, the baby-faced Gunslinger who had been assigned to accompany him on this excursion. It was hard to tell that the apprentice of Saul Andrews was in fact two years senior to John, for he was clean-shaven and generally looked like a younger man. His dress was similar to John's, except for the duster jacket that served as Adam's final outer layer and the bandolier holster that ran across his waist. The handle of his Buck revolver flashed a teasing glint as Adam's jacket rustled in the sea breeze.

"Excited to get off this boat and find out what sort of fun's in store," John answered. "Aren't you?"

Adam shrugged. "Guess so. I don't mind the ship." He didn't look it now, but the Gunslinger had been terribly sick when they'd first set sail from Grand Harbor. But he'd gotten accustomed to the roll of the ship during the voyage, and how he strolled the decks looking perfectly at home. John had hoped, on some level, that the man would be bedridden the whole time. He didn't need a chaperone or a shadow, no matter what his father or Saul Andrews said about the dangers of traveling abroad. He was going to be a guest of the emperor, it wasn't like he'd be spending his time in back alley brothels.

The ship found its space on the docks and tied up to the wharf. John met with the captain, complimented him on the speedy and uneventful voyage, and handed over a couple of silver dollars for his troubles. Then he and Adam descended the gangplank to figure out how to find their way to the palace, while the captain got his crew working preparing the ship's cargo for unloading and sale.

Phaerix, Talon Harbor

Watch Captain Modius Fausto Caletus had just finished his bottle of Nrali Mead when he noticed a steel-clad ship enter the harbor. Considering none of the Imperial Fleets were nearby, he deduced that this must be that foreign trader who the Emperor invited to his wedding. Modius then turned to his second, Primus Canuleium Agatopus, and put his bottle away.
"Primus, go get the High General. Tell him that that John Henry Prim-somethin's here."
Primus saluted and ran off to get High General Numeri, but before he reached the High General, a thought came to mind. The merchants of the Capital Trade League had been offering rewards for trade insight, so he first alerted the Leaguemaster that the foreign merchant had arrived, collected a handsome reward, and then alerted the High General.
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High General Numeri was marching a column of eighteen legionaries armed with rifles and swords down to the harbor when he noticed several prominent merchants surrounding one of the ships. The ship carrying John Henry Primrose. He cursed inwardly, worried that he'd have to break through the merchants to get to Primrose, but was relieved when the Watch Captain told him that Primrose and his bodyguard had wandered into the Umbra District. He then remembered that the Umbra District was in the exact opposite direction of the Imperial Palace and was home to some of the meanest brothels in the Empire. Even veteran legionaries didn't stay in the Umbra District for long for fear of waking with their throat slashed upon.
"Legionaries! We head for the Umbra District! MOVE!"
And with that, the column headed at full speed to the Umbra District, hoping to find Primrose before anything happened.

[Atlantian Dominions]

High General Numeri was marching a column of eighteen legionaries armed with rifles and swords down to the harbor when he noticed several prominent merchants surrounding one of the ships. The ship carrying John Henry Primrose. He cursed inwardly, worried that he'd have to break through the merchants to get to Primrose, but was relieved when the Watch Captain told him that Primrose and his bodyguard had wandered into the Umbra District. He then remembered that the Umbra District was in the exact opposite direction of the Imperial Palace and was home to some of the meanest brothels in the Empire.

If the captain of the Mercy of Jesus had been informed of the plan that John David Primrose and Adam Barber had concocted to make their way from the docks to the palace - which was to walk until they found the palace, or someone who could take them to the palace - he would have insisted that they wait onboard the ship until someone official could be contacted to arrange transport. International Traders, the smart ones, knew that foreign harbors were the most dangerous places for Atlantians to venture. There were almost as many ways for a man to die in a heathen brothel as there were in a hurricane. Yet the captain was so busy handling the influx of merchants lining up to barter and make deals that he didn't notice the two young men leave.

The two Atlantians wandered into the Umbra District, and very quickly realized that they had no way of knowing how to get to the palace. They could not see any palace-like structure, just a bunch of mean-looking brothels and shantytown slums like the neighborhoods of Indentured laborers back home that John David Primrose saw through the window of a car or carriage as he was driven out of the city to his family's country Estate. Adam Barber glanced around, his eyes moving rapidly as he evaluated all the people they walked past as potential threats. His hand was never far from the .45-caliber revolver on his hip, ready to quick-draw and gun down anyone who tried to harm his charge.

"I think," Adam said as they rounded another corner. "That we should go back to the ship and figure out a different route."

"I think...you're right," John David Primrose agreed. "Which way are the docks?"

Neither man had the answer to that question.

[Kalmarnavia]

The sun was barely rising over the horizon, its first rays glancing off the gleaming white stone of the towers and spires of Phaerix as the great lumbering wheelhouse bounced its way along the road. The jolting tossed Prince Argalaic from his bunk with an audible cry.

"TWELVE PRESERVE US! What in Twelve Hells?"

Ser Dontus Greenbow has been awake for around an hour, and could not stifle his laughter.

"And good morning to you, my Prince. The Father Above has granted us another glorious dawn!"
"And may the Dark One Below take him and you, I was rather enjoying being asleep."

Argalaic hoisted himself from the floor, and opened one of the window slats. He looked out at the awakening city in the distance, rubbed sleep from his eyes, and yawned. It had been a long journey to this point- a week at sea aboard the Ventrice sailing round capes and mysterious foreign isles to reach Phaenix itself- the sight of the heavily armoured steel ship had been a novelty for the people of the sleepy port she had been anchored off, followed by a further week in a hired wheelhouse (which Argalaic had insisted upon, for he would not stoop to arriving on horseback). He knew it was the only way he, Ser Dontas, and the three Knights of the Nine that his father insisted accompany them - Ser Gerold Hogg, Ser Jace of the Hill and Ser Trevyn Highglass- were to reach the wedding of the Emperor. Had he been alone, he would have plotted an exotic course, and visited many strange and delightful places...and still arrived five days earlier, mounted on Styrax. What greater gift could I have bestowed upon the Emperor, than the sight of a child of the Blood mounted upon a dragon?

Argalaic slammed the slat shut, and opened a hatch next to it.

"Ser Gerold!" he called, to the tall man in black armour next to the wheelhouse. Ser Gerold Hogg, hailing from a storied family from the Dormish Marches, was the third highest ranking Knight of the Nine, the storied order of black armoured knights sword to defend the Royal family from all who would dare challenge them. He was in truth an uncooth dullard, and the Prince suspected his father has appointed him Argalaic's personal protector out of sheer spite.
"My prince?"
"Pray tell, how much longer until we reach the Imperial Palace? My arse can only take so much strain from this damned road."
"Not much, my Prince. Less than an hour until we reach the city, then possibly no more than a further hour to climb into it to the Palace. I'd put on my finery if I was you, my Prince."

Argalaic sniffed, and shut the hatch.

"Come now, Arge." Ser Dontas was already dressed in his finest tunic and boots, the green oak tree of his house embroidered skillfully on the front, "a few more hours and we'll be wine in hand regailing foreign princesses and ladies of our daring escapades...and you can brag about having a bloody dragon, that'll have them hoisting their skirts as always!"

Argalaic smiled, wryly.
"YOU are free for such carnal pursuits, my dear Dontas, but alas I am betrothed and saving my remaining honour for my Lady Rachel!"
"Pah- a flutter of the eyelashes from one of these foreigners and you'll be in and about it like a dog eating beetroot! They are a people of beauty here, they say...and no doubt some members of their high council would wish to sway you with marriage in exchange for a few fire-breathing winged behemoths on their side in a war..."
"I took vows, Dontas, and I am a child of the Blood."

Argalaic knotted the tough leather belt around his red tunic, slipping his dragon-head rings onto his fingers, and turned to his friend. Golden thread showed the crowned dragon of House Wend on his chest, red rubies inlaid for its eyes glinting. He tosseled his red hair, and ran his hands through his beard, and sat his ringlet of gold and inlaid rubies on his forehead.

"Thoughts?"
"You'll have the ladies pishing their frillies as always, Arge."
"...You really ought to see someone Dontas..."

A while later, the wheelhouse approached the gates of the city. The throngs of people entering and leaving parted at the cries of the knights riding ahead- Ser Gerold at the front mounted on a great white charger, Ser Jace and Ser Trevyn behind him each bearing a staff with the red and gold banner of House Wend, the crowned dragon snarling from each. A guardsman stepped in front, and raised his hand as if to question who dared come forth.

Ser Gerold answered, in a loud clear voice.

"We bear unto your city Argalaic, of the House Wend, Defender of the Dragon's Keep, Prince of Kalmarnavia, son of Jaeharys, of the House Wend, the First of his name, King of Kalmarnavia, Lord of the Six Realms, Ruler of the Skies and Defender of the Faith, descendant of Argalaic the Conqueror, of the blood of Eralia and the Blood of the Dragon. Pray stand aside, so we may pass without let or hindrance, and keep your Emperor's peace!"

The guardsman stared open mouthed, and stood aside as the driver cracked the whip and the great horses pulled the wheelhouse forth. The city pressed in on all sides, as did it's people as these foreign men rode on towards the Palace. Argalaic stared through window slats, grinning.

Within the hour, and after a repeat of the spiel at the gate, the wheelhouse came to a stop within the courtyard of the Palace. Ser Jace dismounted, and opened the door. Argalaic stepped out, the risen sun showing fire in his hair and a gleam in his eyes, followed swiftly by the hulking Ser Dontas, and awaited the greeting of the Emperor's men.

Imperial Palace, Courtyard

Emperor Titus had just finished reading the report one of his spies had given him about recent Jotur raids in the North when he heard the sound of wheels.
"That must be Prince Argalaic. Numeri, I believe you owe me ten aeris."
Titus spoke to the man standing beside him.
The Emperor's cousin, High General Numeri Antistium Septimi, scowled and tossed Titus a bag of aeris.
"Your damn Imperatoris Oculis et Auribus are infallible it seems, much to my pocketbook's dismay."
Titus grinned and donned his black steel crown and cloth-of-gold robes.
"Don't fret, cousin. Perhaps this foreign prince is a worse gambler than you."
Titus then called to his herald who stepped out of the palace before him and read off his titles.
"All hail his Imperial Majesty Titus Helvius Venatius, Lord of Fire, Uniter of the Empire, Marshal of the North, General Excelsis of the Sixteen Legions, and Emperor of Phaenix! Long live the Emperor!"
With his titles out of the way, Emperor Titus stepped out of the palace and looked down at Prince Argalaic and his retinue.
"Welcome, Prince Argalaic, to Phaerix and my home."

Ser Dontas and the 3 Knights bowed low as the Emperor approached, but Argalaic remained at his full height recalling the words of his grandfather- we are of the Blood, and we bow to no man.

"Your Imperial Majesty- I bring you glad tidings on this auspicious occasion, with the warm wishes and congratulations of my father King Jaeharys, the Lords and Ladies of the Six Realms, and indeed the people of all of Kalmarnavia. May the Twelve bless you, and your bride to be."

Argalaic stood to the side to allow Dontas to step forward.

"May I present Ser Dontas Greenbow of Oakdeep, grandson of Lord Euston Greenbow of Oakdeep. His is an ancient, noble House and lineage, one of the first ranking Houses of Norvalia loyal to House Foley of Ninetowers, Lords Paramount of Norvalia and Wardens of the North."

Ser Dontas bowed low a second time.
"Your Imperial Majesty, I am honoured to be here."

Aragalaic gestured to the remainder of his retinue.

"These men are Ser Gerold Hogg, Ser Jace of the Hill and Ser Trevyn Highglass, three of the Kinghts of the Nine the sword shields of my family. This is a far off land, Your Majesty, so I pray you forgive the caution of my father is sending three of the finest knights in the Six Realms to accompany me."

The three Knights bowed low, their segmented armour clanking and hissing as they did so. Styled to look like traditional armour, they in fact wore sophisticated and heavily armed lightweight battle suits complete with inlaid guns, bayonet, and a battery pack. They still carried their swords, as befitted their rank and position, and they knew how to use them- but they were largely for show. The suits themselves were their weapons.

These earliest pleasantries exchanged, Prince Argalaic turned to face the Emperor.

"Your Imperial Majesty, we have had a long and somewhat tiring journey but we are indeed honoured to be here and grace your land with our presence. I look forward to partaking in your Empire's no doubt fine hospitality in the days ahead, and the festivities that shall soon be upon us."

[Phaenix]

High General Numeri was marching a column of eighteen legionaries armed with rifles and swords down to the harbor when he noticed several prominent merchants surrounding one of the ships. The ship carrying John Henry Primrose. He cursed inwardly, worried that he'd have to break through the merchants to get to Primrose, but was relieved when the Watch Captain told him that Primrose and his bodyguard had wandered into the Umbra District. He then remembered that the Umbra District was in the exact opposite direction of the Imperial Palace and was home to some of the meanest brothels in the Empire.

If the captain of the Mercy of Jesus had been informed of the plan that John David Primrose and Adam Barber had concocted to make their way from the docks to the palace - which was to walk until they found the palace, or someone who could take them to the palace - he would have insisted that they wait onboard the ship until someone official could be contacted to arrange transport. International Traders, the smart ones, knew that foreign harbors were the most dangerous places for Atlantians to venture. There were almost as many ways for a man to die in a heathen brothel as there were in a hurricane. Yet the captain was so busy handling the influx of merchants lining up to barter and make deals that he didn't notice the two young men leave.

The two Atlantians wandered into the Umbra District, and very quickly realized that they had no way of knowing how to get to the palace. They could not see any palace-like structure, just a bunch of mean-looking brothels and shantytown slums like the neighborhoods of Indentured laborers back home that John David Primrose saw through the window of a car or carriage as he was driven out of the city to his family's country Estate. Adam Barber glanced around, his eyes moving rapidly as he evaluated all the people they walked past as potential threats. His hand was never far from the .45-caliber revolver on his hip, ready to quick-draw and gun down anyone who tried to harm his charge.

"I think," Adam said as they rounded another corner. "That we should go back to the ship and figure out a different route."

"I think...you're right," John David Primrose agreed. "Which way are the docks?"

Neither man had the answer to that question.

Phaerix, Umbra District

High General Numeri had managed to find the local garrison and convince the commander to loan him some guards, but even with the extra manpower it was proving difficult to locate the foreigners.
"Dammit! How hard is it to find two obviously out of place foreigners in this cesspit?!"
Numeri shouted, frustrated. After a few moments, he regained his composure and saw a couple of hooded figures moving to a back alley. At first, Numeri paid no mind to them, figuring that they were but minor thieves scared off by the arrival of so many legionaries. However, several more figures followed them, so Numeri took five legionaries to investigate.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Opiter quickly followed the rest of the Bloody Skulls gang to their target.
"Oi, Claudio, why does the boss need so many of us to take out two targets?"
Opiter asked the man in front of him, a bald, scarred gangster who had killed more than twenty legionaries.
Claudio chuckled.
"Cause one of em's got one o' them fancy revolvers. We'll need to surround em' and hope he can't kill all o' us."
Opiter nodded, and the gang soon had the two foreigners surrounded. The leader of the gang, Tertius Memmios Firmi, stepped forward and drew his falchion.
"Lookie what we got here, boys. A couple of lost foreigners, and rich ones too. Hey, boy. Allow us to 'escort' you out of here, for the small price of everything you own."

Ser Dontas and the 3 Knights bowed low as the Emperor approached, but Argalaic remained at his full height recalling the words of his grandfather- we are of the Blood, and we bow to no man.

"Your Imperial Majesty- I bring you glad tidings on this auspicious occasion, with the warm wishes and congratulations of my father King Jaeharys, the Lords and Ladies of the Six Realms, and indeed the people of all of Kalmarnavia. May the Twelve bless you, and your bride to be."

Argalaic stood to the side to allow Dontas to step forward.

"May I present Ser Dontas Greenbow of Oakdeep, grandson of Lord Euston Greenbow of Oakdeep. His is an ancient, noble House and lineage, one of the first ranking Houses of Norvalia loyal to House Foley of Ninetowers, Lords Paramount of Norvalia and Wardens of the North."

Ser Dontas bowed low a second time.
"Your Imperial Majesty, I am honored to be here."

Aragalaic gestured to the remainder of his retinue.

"These men are Ser Gerold Hogg, Ser Jace of the Hill and Ser Trevyn Highglass, three of the Kinghts of the Nine the sword shields of my family. This is a far off land, Your Majesty, so I pray you forgive the caution of my father is sending three of the finest knights in the Six Realms to accompany me."

The three Knights bowed low, their segmented armour clanking and hissing as they did so. Styled to look like traditional armour, they in fact wore sophisticated and heavily armed lightweight battle suits complete with inlaid guns, bayonet, and a battery pack. They still carried their swords, as befitted their rank and position, and they knew how to use them- but they were largely for show. The suits themselves were their weapons.

These earliest pleasantries exchanged, Prince Argalaic turned to face the Emperor.

"Your Imperial Majesty, we have had a long and somewhat tiring journey but we are indeed honored to be here and grace your land with our presence. I look forward to partaking in your Empire's no doubt fine hospitality in the days ahead, and the festivities that shall soon be upon us."

Imperial Palace, Courtyard

Emperor Titus frowned for a moment at the arrogance the prince had to not at the very least dip his head, but the frown was soon replaced with a slight smile.
"Of course, Prince Argalaic. Have your men follow my slaves to their rooms. But as I see the other guests have yet to arrive, perhaps we could talk privately for a moment?"
Slaves had appeared and were walking over to Prince Argalaic's knights to show them to their rooms while the Emperor waited to here the prince's response.

[Kalmarnavia]

Dontas glanced uneasily at Argalaic as the slaves approached and began unloading the wheelhouse. Slavery was a decidedly foreign concept to the people of the Six Realms, for even serfdom had ceased with the Conquest.

Argalaic half smiled and gestured reassuringly towards his friend.

"Ser Gerold, Ser Jace- escort Ser Dontas and follow His Majesty's...workers inside. Ensure everything is as it should be in mine and Ser Dontas's accommodation before seeing to your own. Ser Trevyn, remain with me please."

Dontas nodded as he picked up his own chest ("No, no it's quite alright, thank you-no no, really! I can manage one of my own chests, please, assist Ser Gerold with his it is much heavier!") and followed the Imperial slaves as they trooped into the Palace. He glanced around as he was guided through the corridors and staircases. It was bigger, far bigger, than Oakdeep- Dontas reckoned it surely must rival at least Reiverguard and perhaps even Nine Towers in size, and was grander than each by half- but he knew just from even the first look it was certainly smaller than the Dragon's Keep, and he knew Argalaic well enough to foresee exactly how many passing comments he would make on how Kungshallen dwarfed it. But it was a fine Palace, even if he sensed it's inhabitants may be less so. There had been an edge of condescension to the Emperor's voice as he spoke to Arge, and Dontas did not like it one bit. And he knew Arge wouldn't like it either. None should slight second sons, particularly if that second son has access to literal monsters...

Argalaic watched Dontas and the two Knights of the Nine follow very obviously awkwardly behind the Emperor's slaves, and smiled at Ser Trevyn.
"I do hope you'll forgive me for detaining you from seeking rest a while longer, Ser Trevyn, but my beloved father and darling brother did spent a good while before my departure carefully explaining I've not to be left alone on this trip." My sisters, on the other hand, and suggested arranging some accident to behalf Ser Gerold at least at sea, and there was time yet for that...

He turned to his host, with a smile.

"But of course Your Majesty- I would be delighted to."

[Alegeharia]

Aither is the first to step through the shimmering door from Alegeharia to Phaerix, He looked around at his new surroundings waving his left hand at the magic users as he kept his right close to his sword instinctively. He relaxed some as he moved forward to give room to smaller shapes walking into view. The first small shape (Malik) looked around through his hood and stared at the others as he took post to one side of Aither. The other (Vin), was dressed in a princely looking suit, his face bright with excitement looking all around at the new environment.
"We are here brothers." Aither states and looks around some more. "As to where this is Phaerix, but I am unsure where the portal placed us." Aither asked one of the magi for a map or some set of guide as to where to go, he also asked about a nearby tavern to see if he could get more information.
"I Suppose..." Malik sighed through his hood as looked around some more, he held onto the crown that was strapped to his waist as he walked. "I believe there is to be a welcoming 'party' of some sorts eh? Usually seems to be some sort of meet up when going to new places.."

[Phaenix]

Dontas glanced uneasily at Argalaic as the slaves approached and began unloading the wheelhouse. Slavery was a decidedly foreign concept to the people of the Six Realms, for even serfdom had ceased with the Conquest.

Argalaic half smiled and gestured reassuringly towards his friend.

"Ser Gerold, Ser Jace- escort Ser Dontas and follow His Majesty's...workers inside. Ensure everything is as it should be in mine and Ser Dontas's accommodation before seeing to your own. Ser Trevyn, remain with me please."

Dontas nodded as he picked up his own chest ("No, no it's quite alright, thank you-no no, really! I can manage one of my own chests, please, assist Ser Gerold with his it is much heavier!") and followed the Imperial slaves as they trooped into the Palace. He glanced around as he was guided through the corridors and staircases. It was bigger, far bigger, than Oakdeep- Dontas reckoned it surely must rival at least Reiverguard and perhaps even Nine Towers in size, and was grander than each by half- but he knew just from even the first look it was certainly smaller than the Dragon's Keep, and he knew Argalaic well enough to foresee exactly how many passing comments he would make on how Kungshallen dwarfed it. But it was a fine Palace, even if he sensed it's inhabitants may be less so. There had been an edge of condescension to the Emperor's voice as he spoke to Arge, and Dontas did not like it one bit. And he knew Arge wouldn't like it either. None should slight second sons, particularly if that second son has access to literal monsters...

Argalaic watched Dontas and the two Knights of the Nine follow very obviously awkwardly behind the Emperor's slaves, and smiled at Ser Trevyn.
"I do hope you'll forgive me for detaining you from seeking rest a while longer, Ser Trevyn, but my beloved father and darling brother did spent a good while before my departure carefully explaining I've not to be left alone on this trip." My sisters, on the other hand, and suggested arranging some accident to behalf Ser Gerold at least at sea, and there was time yet for that...

He turned to his host, with a smile.

"But of course Your Majesty- I would be delighted to."

Imperial Palace, Grand Foyer

Emperor Titus returned the smile and gestured to the prince to follow him into the palace's grand foyer. After dismissing the slaves, servants, and other courtiers from the foyer, Titus turned to Prince Argalaic.
"I will be blunt. Though this event may be my wedding, a ruler is never truly away from his work. My Empire is on the brink of a war never seen before on the continent. I would like to ensure that the Empire, though it will be victorious, is victorious without a massive loss of life. So, what I propose is that we enter into a sort of alliance. While I would prefer an alliance through marriage, I understand that you are already betrothed. So, I offer you a trade. Five-hundred Archmagi for two of your younger dragons. I understand that this is sudden, so I will allow you a week to make up your mind. Or you could say no right now so I can throw that plan away."
Emperor Titus waited, hands spread, to see what the prince would say.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Aither is the first to step through the shimmering door from Alegeharia to Phaerix, He looked around at his new surroundings waving his left hand at the magic users as he kept his right close to his sword instinctively. He relaxed some as he moved forward to give room to smaller shapes walking into view. The first small shape (Malik) looked around through his hood and stared at the others as he took post to one side of Aither. The other (Vin), was dressed in a princely looking suit, his face bright with excitement looking all around at the new environment.
"We are here brothers." Aither states and looks around some more. "As to where this is Phaerix, but I am unsure where the portal placed us." Aither asked one of the magi for a map or some set of guide as to where to go, he also asked about a nearby tavern to see if he could get more information.
"I Suppose..." Malik sighed through his hood as looked around some more, he held onto the crown that was strapped to his waist as he walked. "I believe there is to be a welcoming 'party' of some sorts eh? Usually seems to be some sort of meet up when going to new places.."

Phaerix, Merchant District

One of the magi stepped forward and bowed low.
"Your Majesty, Your Highnesses, let me welcome you to Phaerix, the City of Alabaster. His Imperial Majesty sent me, Archmagus Konrad von Eelbroy, to escort Your Majesty to the Imperial Palace. As to the closest tavern, the Merchant's Blunder is only a few blocks from here."
The Archmagus stopped for a second and handed the royals three small tablets.
"Here, these will allow you to see the layout of the city and where each of you are. Without further ado, Your Majesty, will you follow me?"

[Kalmarnavia]

Dontas glanced uneasily at Argalaic as the slaves approached and began unloading the wheelhouse. Slavery was a decidedly foreign concept to the people of the Six Realms, for even serfdom had ceased with the Conquest.

Argalaic half smiled and gestured reassuringly towards his friend.

"Ser Gerold, Ser Jace- escort Ser Dontas and follow His Majesty's...workers inside. Ensure everything is as it should be in mine and Ser Dontas's accommodation before seeing to your own. Ser Trevyn, remain with me please."

Dontas nodded as he picked up his own chest ("No, no it's quite alright, thank you-no no, really! I can manage one of my own chests, please, assist Ser Gerold with his it is much heavier!") and followed the Imperial slaves as they trooped into the Palace. He glanced around as he was guided through the corridors and staircases. It was bigger, far bigger, than Oakdeep- Dontas reckoned it surely must rival at least Reiverguard and perhaps even Nine Towers in size, and was grander than each by half- but he knew just from even the first look it was certainly smaller than the Dragon's Keep, and he knew Argalaic well enough to foresee exactly how many passing comments he would make on how Kungshallen dwarfed it. But it was a fine Palace, even if he sensed it's inhabitants may be less so. There had been an edge of condescension to the Emperor's voice as he spoke to Arge, and Dontas did not like it one bit. And he knew Arge wouldn't like it either. None should slight second sons, particularly if that second son has access to literal monsters...

Argalaic watched Dontas and the two Knights of the Nine follow very obviously awkwardly behind the Emperor's slaves, and smiled at Ser Trevyn.
"I do hope you'll forgive me for detaining you from seeking rest a while longer, Ser Trevyn, but my beloved father and darling brother did spent a good while before my departure carefully explaining I've not to be left alone on this trip." My sisters, on the other hand, and suggested arranging some accident to behalf Ser Gerold at least at sea, and there was time yet for that...

He turned to his host, with a smile.

"But of course Your Majesty- I would be delighted to."

Imperial Palace, Grand Foyer

Emperor Titus returned the smile and gestured to the prince to follow him into the palace's grand foyer. After dismissing the slaves, servants, and other courtiers from the foyer, Titus turned to Prince Argalaic.
"I will be blunt. Though this event may be my wedding, a ruler is never truly away from his work. My Empire is on the brink of a war never seen before on the continent. I would like to ensure that the Empire, though it will be victorious, is victorious without a massive loss of life. So, what I propose is that we enter into a sort of alliance. While I would prefer an alliance through marriage, I understand that you are already betrothed. So, I offer you a trade. Five-hundred Archmagi for two of your younger dragons. I understand that this is sudden, so I will allow you a week to make up your mind. Or you could say no right now so I can throw that plan away."
Emperor Titus waited, hands spread, to see what the prince would say.

The smile dropped from Argalaic's lips, and his brow furrowed. This was a thoroughly bold move on the Emperor's part. He took a breath, slow and deep, before responding.

"Your Majesty...Forgive me, I do not intend to be blunt or insulting with this initial response but- no. It is, quite frankly, impossible, for me to trade away dragons. Firstly, we have no young unclaimed dragons to trade- battle hardened veterans lacking in riders, yes, but even then it would be beyond me. Dragons...are more than beasts of war to my kin. We are part of them, they are part of us. Dragons cannot be broken or tamed, they are bonded with- and not through magic or force, but- and I know this will sound truly, fully bizarre- but through blood. Our dragons descend from old Eralia, where my ancestors escaped before the cataclysm that sank the ancient empire and wiped it from the world. Only Eralian blood connects with these creatures. Even if I could trade them away, without risking everyone from my father, brother, and sisters to my new born second cousins tearing me limb from limb and painting the walls of the Dragon's Keep with my innards, all that would happen is two very unpredictable, very dangerous dragons would arrive here, burn your city and its inhabitants to the ground, be unharmed by almost any weapon you could think to throw at them, and be unleashed upon your people."

Argalaic paused, breathed again, and relaxed. A smile reappeared on his lips.

"However...whilst I cannot give you dragons, I can certainly consider providing them in another capacity. You see, I am the second son in my family. I'll marry my betrothed, settle down in a castle on an island off Dragon's Keep, having sworn my life and sword to my damned fool of a brother the future King, and waste away making a brood of children who'll never sit the throne, never know the glory that should be theirs if it could be so. However, I and indeed several of my dear close kin are skilled dragon riders. Skilled warriors. And several of my...associates across our Six Realms who also stand to have no true titles or standing are equally skilled warriors. Therefore, I propose a potential counter offer. A counter offer, I do warn, that would sadly be subject to the sign off of my dear father- but an offer nonetheless. If you can tell me of the dangers facing your realm, and the prizes one could expect for victory in that conflict and the rewards that an allied Kingdom could reap, say, in trade- I shall return to Roskilde to present my father with your chosen ambassador, vouchsafe yourself, your kingdom and cause. He will in all likelihood if he listens to me, my sisters and cousins over my brother, agree that I and a choice few cousins can return with ships, a sizeable army, weapons, supplies...and our dragons."

Argalaic smiled, his deep blue eyes twinkling. He hadn't fought a true war in almost a decade. The thought excited him beyond measure.

[Alegeharia]

Dontas glanced uneasily at Argalaic as the slaves approached and began unloading the wheelhouse. Slavery was a decidedly foreign concept to the people of the Six Realms, for even serfdom had ceased with the Conquest.

Argalaic half smiled and gestured reassuringly towards his friend.

"Ser Gerold, Ser Jace- escort Ser Dontas and follow His Majesty's...workers inside. Ensure everything is as it should be in mine and Ser Dontas's accommodation before seeing to your own. Ser Trevyn, remain with me please."

Dontas nodded as he picked up his own chest ("No, no it's quite alright, thank you-no no, really! I can manage one of my own chests, please, assist Ser Gerold with his it is much heavier!") and followed the Imperial slaves as they trooped into the Palace. He glanced around as he was guided through the corridors and staircases. It was bigger, far bigger, than Oakdeep- Dontas reckoned it surely must rival at least Reiverguard and perhaps even Nine Towers in size, and was grander than each by half- but he knew just from even the first look it was certainly smaller than the Dragon's Keep, and he knew Argalaic well enough to foresee exactly how many passing comments he would make on how Kungshallen dwarfed it. But it was a fine Palace, even if he sensed it's inhabitants may be less so. There had been an edge of condescension to the Emperor's voice as he spoke to Arge, and Dontas did not like it one bit. And he knew Arge wouldn't like it either. None should slight second sons, particularly if that second son has access to literal monsters...

Argalaic watched Dontas and the two Knights of the Nine follow very obviously awkwardly behind the Emperor's slaves, and smiled at Ser Trevyn.
"I do hope you'll forgive me for detaining you from seeking rest a while longer, Ser Trevyn, but my beloved father and darling brother did spent a good while before my departure carefully explaining I've not to be left alone on this trip." My sisters, on the other hand, and suggested arranging some accident to behalf Ser Gerold at least at sea, and there was time yet for that...

He turned to his host, with a smile.

"But of course Your Majesty- I would be delighted to."

Imperial Palace, Grand Foyer

Emperor Titus returned the smile and gestured to the prince to follow him into the palace's grand foyer. After dismissing the slaves, servants, and other courtiers from the foyer, Titus turned to Prince Argalaic.
"I will be blunt. Though this event may be my wedding, a ruler is never truly away from his work. My Empire is on the brink of a war never seen before on the continent. I would like to ensure that the Empire, though it will be victorious, is victorious without a massive loss of life. So, what I propose is that we enter into a sort of alliance. While I would prefer an alliance through marriage, I understand that you are already betrothed. So, I offer you a trade. Five-hundred Archmagi for two of your younger dragons. I understand that this is sudden, so I will allow you a week to make up your mind. Or you could say no right now so I can throw that plan away."
Emperor Titus waited, hands spread, to see what the prince would say.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Aither is the first to step through the shimmering door from Alegeharia to Phaerix, He looked around at his new surroundings waving his left hand at the magic users as he kept his right close to his sword instinctively. He relaxed some as he moved forward to give room to smaller shapes walking into view. The first small shape (Malik) looked around through his hood and stared at the others as he took post to one side of Aither. The other (Vin), was dressed in a princely looking suit, his face bright with excitement looking all around at the new environment.
"We are here brothers." Aither states and looks around some more. "As to where this is Phaerix, but I am unsure where the portal placed us." Aither asked one of the magi for a map or some set of guide as to where to go, he also asked about a nearby tavern to see if he could get more information.
"I Suppose..." Malik sighed through his hood as looked around some more, he held onto the crown that was strapped to his waist as he walked. "I believe there is to be a welcoming 'party' of some sorts eh? Usually seems to be some sort of meet up when going to new places.."

Phaerix, Merchant District

One of the magi stepped forward and bowed low.
"Your Majesty, Your Highnesses, let me welcome you to Phaerix, the City of Alabaster. His Imperial Majesty sent me, Archmagus Konrad von Eelbroy, to escort Your Majesty to the Imperial Palace. As to the closest tavern, the Merchant's Blunder is only a few blocks from here."
The Archmagus stopped for a second and handed the royals three small tablets.
"Here, these will allow you to see the layout of the city and where each of you are. Without further ado, Your Majesty, will you follow me?"

The trio looks at the tablets handed to them studying the information. Aither looks up at the Archmagus and nods his head starting to walk forward. "Please, show us the way good sir; I can visit the taverns later." Malik and Vin continue to look around surveying everything they walked past, studying all the object and how the people behaved. Indeed it deem seem different from their own kingdom. Walls lining everything instead of grass and trees.
"Is there anything natural here?" Vin asked. "I don't believe I have seen any plant life thus far." He sniffs around as he continues to look around trying to figure this place out.
Malik sniffs around as well taking in all the sights before pulling his hood off to get a better view, he looks over to the Archmagus and thinks about what to say. "So you know magic, how is magic treated in these parts?"

[Phaenix]

Imperial Palace, Grand Foyer

Emperor Titus returned the smile and gestured to the prince to follow him into the palace's grand foyer. After dismissing the slaves, servants, and other courtiers from the foyer, Titus turned to Prince Argalaic.
"I will be blunt. Though this event may be my wedding, a ruler is never truly away from his work. My Empire is on the brink of a war never seen before on the continent. I would like to ensure that the Empire, though it will be victorious, is victorious without a massive loss of life. So, what I propose is that we enter into a sort of alliance. While I would prefer an alliance through marriage, I understand that you are already betrothed. So, I offer you a trade. Five-hundred Archmagi for two of your younger dragons. I understand that this is sudden, so I will allow you a week to make up your mind. Or you could say no right now so I can throw that plan away."
Emperor Titus waited, hands spread, to see what the prince would say.

The smile dropped from Argalaic's lips, and his brow furrowed. This was a thoroughly bold move on the Emperor's part. He took a breath, slow and deep, before responding.

"Your Majesty...Forgive me, I do not intend to be blunt or insulting with this initial response but- no. It is, quite frankly, impossible, for me to trade away dragons. Firstly, we have no young unclaimed dragons to trade- battle hardened veterans lacking in riders, yes, but even then it would be beyond me. Dragons...are more than beasts of war to my kin. We are part of them, they are part of us. Dragons cannot be broken or tamed, they are bonded with- and not through magic or force, but- and I know this will sound truly, fully bizarre- but through blood. Our dragons descend from old Eralia, where my ancestors escaped before the cataclysm that sank the ancient empire and wiped it from the world. Only Eralian blood connects with these creatures. Even if I could trade them away, without risking everyone from my father, brothers, and sisters to my new born second cousins tearing me limb from limb and painting the walls of the Dragon's Keep with my innards, all that would happen is two very unpredictable, very dangerous dragons would arrive here, burn your city and its inhabitants to the ground, be unharmed by almost any weapon you could think to throw at them, and be unleashed upon your people."

Argalaic paused, breathed again, and relaxed. A smile reappeared on his lips.

"However...whilst I cannot give you dragons, I can certainly consider providing them in another capacity. You see, I am the second son in my family. I'll marry my betrothed, settle down in a castle on an island off Dragon's Keep, having sworn my life and sword to my damned fool of a brother the future King, and waste away making a brood of children who'll never sit the throne, never know the glory that should be theirs if it could be so. However, I and indeed several of my dear close kin are skilled dragon riders. Skilled warriors. And several of my...associates across our Six Realms who also stand to have no true titles or standing are equally skilled warriors. Therefore, I propose a potential counter offer. A counter offer, I do warn, that would sadly be subject to the sign off of my dear father- but an offer nonetheless. If you can tell me of the dangers facing your realm, and the prizes one could expect for victory in that conflict and the rewards that an allied Kingdom could reap, say, in trade- I shall return to Roskilde to present my father with your chosen ambassador, vouchsafe yourself, your kingdom and cause. He will in all likelihood if he listens to me, my sisters and cousins over my brother, agree that I and a choice few cousins can return with ships, a sizeable army, weapons, supplies...and our dragons."

Argalaic smiled, his deep blue eyes twinkling. He hadn't fought a true war in almost a decade. The thought excited him beyond measure.

Imperial Palace, Grand Foyer

Emperor Titus frowned upon hearing the new he would not receive dragons, but deep in his mind he knew that something was special with the members of House Wend to tame dragons. But once he heard the prince's counteroffer, he smiled.
"You wish to know the rewards of supporting the Empire? The finest Imperial silk robes, magically enhanced weapons and armor, personal magi trained in several of the arcane arts, gold beyond your wildest dreams, pleasure slaves if you so wish, mansions in the Noble District of Phaerix, and last but not least, spices. I will give you all this and more, for the war that is coming will be between the Empire, and our rivals on the other side of the continent, the barbarous Rohdar-Gozari Union. While we could crush the Union on our own, their allies, the Soyani and South Durikad would be free to rampage across our allies' lands with impunity. So, their is your answer. The rewards and the risks."

[Phaenix]

Imperial Palace, Grand Foyer

Emperor Titus returned the smile and gestured to the prince to follow him into the palace's grand foyer. After dismissing the slaves, servants, and other courtiers from the foyer, Titus turned to Prince Argalaic.
"I will be blunt. Though this event may be my wedding, a ruler is never truly away from his work. My Empire is on the brink of a war never seen before on the continent. I would like to ensure that the Empire, though it will be victorious, is victorious without a massive loss of life. So, what I propose is that we enter into a sort of alliance. While I would prefer an alliance through marriage, I understand that you are already betrothed. So, I offer you a trade. Five-hundred Archmagi for two of your younger dragons. I understand that this is sudden, so I will allow you a week to make up your mind. Or you could say no right now so I can throw that plan away."
Emperor Titus waited, hands spread, to see what the prince would say.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Phaerix, Merchant District

One of the magi stepped forward and bowed low.
"Your Majesty, Your Highnesses, let me welcome you to Phaerix, the City of Alabaster. His Imperial Majesty sent me, Archmagus Konrad von Eelbroy, to escort Your Majesty to the Imperial Palace. As to the closest tavern, the Merchant's Blunder is only a few blocks from here."
The Archmagus stopped for a second and handed the royals three small tablets.
"Here, these will allow you to see the layout of the city and where each of you are. Without further ado, Your Majesty, will you follow me?"

The trio looks at the tablets handed to them studying the information. Aither looks up at the Archmagus and nods his head starting to walk forward. "Please, show us the way good sir; I can visit the taverns later." Malik and Vin continue to look around surveying everything they walked past, studying all the object and how the people behaved. Indeed it deem seem different from their own kingdom. Walls lining everything instead of grass and trees.
"Is there anything natural here?" Vin asked. "I don't believe I have seen any plant life thus far." He sniffs around as he continues to look around trying to figure this place out.
Malik sniffs around as well taking in all the sights before pulling his hood off to get a better view, he looks over to the Archmagus and thinks about what to say. "So you know magic, how is magic treated in these parts?"

[Kalmarnavia]

Imperial Palace, Grand Foyer

Emperor Titus frowned upon hearing the new he would not receive dragons, but deep in his mind he knew that something was special with the members of House Wend to tame dragons. But once he heard the prince's counteroffer, he smiled.
"You wish to know the rewards of supporting the Empire? The finest Imperial silk robes, magically enhanced weapons and armor, personal magi trained in several of the arcane arts, gold beyond your wildest dreams, pleasure slaves if you so wish, mansions in the Noble District of Phaerix, and last but not least, spices. I will give you all this and more, for the war that is coming will be between the Empire, and our rivals on the other side of the continent, the barbarous Rohdar-Gozari Union. While we could crush the Union on our own, their allies, the Soyani and South Durikad would be free to rampage across our allies' lands with impunity. So, their is your answer. The rewards and the risks."

Argalaic continued to smile. Magi- Kalmarnavia had those trained in the magical arts, but foreign magi with new ideas and understanding would pique the interest and surely gain the support of the Silent Council of the Grand Academy of Arts and Sciences. Gold was something the Realms had, but more to boost the Royal Coffers would again please his spendthrift father. Spices- that truly would be the kicker. The spice trade would be a boon right the way across the Realms- the ports of Nunaatland, Islandia, and Norvalia would thrive beyond their dreams, Dormvark and Frondheim would export them across the continent.

He smiles broader than before at the Emperor.

"Your Majesty, nothing can be formal or agreed at this stage. But I believe we have an accord in principle. You and I and your councillors can discuss details of a draft arrangement in far deeper scope before I depart, but I truly believe we have the beginnings of an alliance that will bring glory to all concerned."

He gestured for the Emperor to lead on, preferably to some wine.

"Now, you had briefly mentioned matrimony. I am of course, in order to renew bonds between my House and the Great nobles, to marry Lady Rachel of House Vasa as and when my brother's wedding is long out of the road. However, my good friend Ser Dontas is without any prospect of a bride. He of course is not from a Great house, but is from a powerful one- his grandfather and father would, for example, be pivotal to securing the support of House Foley for the involvement of any troops from Norvalia in any venture we would have towards involvement in war. I wouldn't dream of suggesting matching him with a member of the Imperial family, for fear that match would be seen as improper...but if you could direct any amenable nobility my way, perhaps that arrangement could be made to cement our growing arrangement."

[Alegeharia]

[spoiler=-snip-]

The trio looks at the tablets handed to them studying the information. Aither looks up at the Archmagus and nods his head starting to walk forward. "Please, show us the way good sir; I can visit the taverns later." Malik and Vin continue to look around surveying everything they walked past, studying all the object and how the people behaved. Indeed it deem seem different from their own kingdom. Walls lining everything instead of grass and trees.
"Is there anything natural here?" Vin asked. "I don't believe I have seen any plant life thus far." He sniffs around as he continues to look around trying to figure this place out.
Malik sniffs around as well taking in all the sights before pulling his hood off to get a better view, he looks over to the Archmagus and thinks about what to say. "So you know magic, how is magic treated in these parts?"

Phaerix, Merchant District

Archmagus Konrad smiled.
"Ah, magic. The Empire looks favorably on the arcane arts, and even the lowliest alchemist can live a decadent life if they ply their trade right. And to the Prince Vincent's question, you must see the Imperial Gardens. Such exotic flowers, and the singing of the birds! Some believe the Emperor had the gardens magically enchanted to never die, and indeed magic flows strongly there."
The Archmagus was about to continue when a stone flew towards the royals. He quickly threw up a shield, and the rock bounced back into the face of a fat merchant, who fell to the ground with a loud thud.
"Go back to where you came from, furballs!"
Archmagus Konrad immediately used his magic to drag the shouter to him and forced him on his knees.
"Impudent dog! Do you know who you are speaking to?! These are guests of the Emperor! What right do you, a lowly commoner, have to insult royalty!?"
The man spat on the Archmagus' shoe and spoke once more.
"The Emperor seems to care more about some flea-ridden pests then his own people! I was starving but two days ago, and that angel Antoniae Galvisia handed out food to us commonfolk. And what did our 'Glorious Emperor' do? He sat in his palace and told us to wait for the harvest!"
Konrad began to choke the man with his powers, but stopped short of killing him. Instead, he turned to the three royals he was escorting and spoke.
"Since this scum has insulted not only your royal persons, but the Emperor himself, then he will die. The question is, will you allow me to kill him here and now in the most painful way possible, or shall I drag him before the Emperor?"

While Malik's hands were hidden from view a faint blue glow could be seen fading away as quickly as it came when he saw the rock coming his way. He stood straighter as his ears perked at the insult and looked over at the wretch. He was going to reply but stopped seeing him drain of air and frowned slightly. "Hold fast Arch mage." Malik approached the man looking him over. "In my kingdom an insult is seen as critique, you said you were starving? Why are you without food? You speak of Angels? How can you be sure?" As Malik talked it seemed the area around him brightened, his shadow seemed warped, as if something was around his back, but looking at the pup, nothing matched such object. "Good sir," Malik placed his paw on the mans hand and whispered some words in a different language. "Be at peace, I have no quarrel with you, if we were to kill everyone that caused problems there would soon be no one left. Just Let him go, I'm sure he feels apologetic by now." Malik had secretly healed the man of some of the injuries but not many to raise suspicion.

Aither tsked as he turned to the Arch Mage. "Are you in need of supplies? We have plenty of fertile soil and I'm sure we can aid in food if its short." Aither kept his main hand on his nearest weapon as he surveyed the area. "Perhaps," He picked up Vin and placed him on his back. "We should get moving now hmm?"

[Phaenix]

Phaerix, Merchant District

Archmagus Konrad smiled.
"Ah, magic. The Empire looks favorably on the arcane arts, and even the lowliest alchemist can live a decadent life if they ply their trade right. And to the Prince Vincent's question, you must see the Imperial Gardens. Such exotic flowers, and the singing of the birds! Some believe the Emperor had the gardens magically enchanted to never die, and indeed magic flows strongly there."
The Archmagus was about to continue when a stone flew towards the royals. He quickly threw up a shield, and the rock bounced back into the face of a fat merchant, who fell to the ground with a loud thud.
"Go back to where you came from, furballs!"
Archmagus Konrad immediately used his magic to drag the shouter to him and forced him on his knees.
"Impudent dog! Do you know who you are speaking to?! These are guests of the Emperor! What right do you, a lowly commoner, have to insult royalty!?"
The man spat on the Archmagus' shoe and spoke once more.
"The Emperor seems to care more about some flea-ridden pests then his own people! I was starving but two days ago, and that angel Antoniae Galvisia handed out food to us commonfolk. And what did our 'Glorious Emperor' do? He sat in his palace and told us to wait for the harvest!"
Konrad began to choke the man with his powers, but stopped short of killing him. Instead, he turned to the three royals he was escorting and spoke.
"Since this scum has insulted not only your royal persons, but the Emperor himself, then he will die. The question is, will you allow me to kill him here and now in the most painful way possible, or shall I drag him before the Emperor?"

While Malik's hands were hidden from view a faint blue glow could be seen fading away as quickly as it came when he saw the rock coming his way. He stood straighter as his ears perked at the insult and looked over at the wretch. He was going to reply but stopped seeing him drain of air and frowned slightly. "Hold fast Arch mage." Malik approached the man looking him over. "In my kingdom an insult is seen as critique, you said you were starving? Why are you without food? You speak of Angels? How can you be sure?" As Malik talked it seemed the area around him brightened, his shadow seemed warped, as if something was around his back, but looking at the pup, nothing matched such object. "Good sir," Malik placed his paw on the mans hand and whispered some words in a different language. "Be at peace, I have no quarrel with you, if we were to kill everyone that caused problems there would soon be no one left. Just Let him go, I'm sure he feels apologetic by now." Malik had secretly healed the man of some of the injuries but not many to raise suspicion.

Aither tsked as he turned to the Arch Mage. "Are you in need of supplies? We have plenty of fertile soil and I'm sure we can aid in food if its short." Aither kept his main hand on his nearest weapon as he surveyed the area. "Perhaps," He picked up Vin and placed him on his back. "We should get moving now hmm?"

Phaerix, Merchant District

Archmagus Konrad reluctantly let the poor man go and after the small crowd had dispersed, he turned to Malik.
"Ah, my apologies Your Majesty. The commoners are easily riled by foreigners, especially non-humans. In the last days of the civil war Emperor Marcus drain the city of its resources to feed him and his followers. The poor of the city suffered terribly, and have only just begun to recover. That witch Antoniae Galvisia has put on act and is attempting to rile the people of the capital against the Emperor by stealing food from the grain reserves and handing them to the people early. Of course, we cannot tell the people this or they will tear us limb from limb."
Konrad scowled, but soon continued walking. Within minutes, the group arrived at the Imperial Palace. Konrad spoke once again.
"The Emperor's inside speaking with the Kalmarnavians. These slaves will show you to your quarters. However, if you wish to speak to the emperor you may find him in the grand foyer."
And with that, the Archmagus left the royals.

[Atlantian Dominions]

Opiter nodded, and the gang soon had the two foreigners surrounded. The leader of the gang, Tertius Memmios Firmi, stepped forward and drew his falchion.

It was a common misconception that the first thing a Gunslinger learned how to do was fire a pistol. Adam Barber had been eleven years old when Saul Andrews first saw him and singled him out for his quick reflexes and sharp eyes. When he'd begun his training, he'd been eager to pick up one of the older man's revolvers and have a go at shooting bullseyes. Instead, he hadn't been given a gun to fire until several years later. Instead, he'd first learned how to use the weapons that God gave him: his eyes, his mind, and his other senses and instincts.

"A Gunslinger's hands are merely tools, just like a pistol's trigger," Saul Andrews had taught him. "A Gunslinger's deadliest weapon is his mind. That is what makes you deadlier than any other man."

So Adam Barber had seen the gang shadowing them out of the corner of his eye. Yet he hadn't made any moves that might betray that knowledge to their pursuers. Instead, he suggested that he and John Henry Primrose make certain turns, take particular streets, until they were in a place that he considered good ground for a fight. The street was narrow, limiting how many attackers could rush them at one time. Still, these cutpurses had brought quite a few men to the party. Adam had six shots in his revolver and plenty more ammunition on his bandolier. The trick would be timing the reloads.

"Lookie what we got here, boys. A couple of lost foreigners, and rich ones too. Hey, boy. Allow us to 'escort' you out of here, for the small price of everything you own."

"Who are you calling a boy?" John Henry Primrose demanded. "We are guests of your Emperor. I suggest you let us pass, before things turn unpleasant."

"Perhaps a bit less bravado," Adam offered quietly. He was taking a slow step, one hand lingering near the holstered gun, the other one raised with the palm facing out in a gesture that Adam figured meant something like 'now hold on here' in most cultures. "No one needs to do anything rash. We're on our way to the palace. If you show us the way, we'll pay you for your services."

John's face twisted in offended disbelief. Pay these robbers? He opened his mouth to countermand the Gunslinger's words, but closed it without saying anything. Saul Andrews had found Adam Barber on the streets, cutting purses and swindling at card and dice games. These ruffians were the sort of people he might have run with in his youth, and John figured that Adam understood how they thought. So he let his bodyguard take the lead.

[Alegeharia]

While Malik's hands were hidden from view a faint blue glow could be seen fading away as quickly as it came when he saw the rock coming his way. He stood straighter as his ears perked at the insult and looked over at the wretch. He was going to reply but stopped seeing him drain of air and frowned slightly. "Hold fast Arch mage." Malik approached the man looking him over. "In my kingdom an insult is seen as critique, you said you were starving? Why are you without food? You speak of Angels? How can you be sure?" As Malik talked it seemed the area around him brightened, his shadow seemed warped, as if something was around his back, but looking at the pup, nothing matched such object. "Good sir," Malik placed his paw on the mans hand and whispered some words in a different language. "Be at peace, I have no quarrel with you, if we were to kill everyone that caused problems there would soon be no one left. Just Let him go, I'm sure he feels apologetic by now." Malik had secretly healed the man of some of the injuries but not many to raise suspicion.

Aither tsked as he turned to the Arch Mage. "Are you in need of supplies? We have plenty of fertile soil and I'm sure we can aid in food if its short." Aither kept his main hand on his nearest weapon as he surveyed the area. "Perhaps," He picked up Vin and placed him on his back. "We should get moving now hmm?"

Phaerix, Merchant District

Archmagus Konrad reluctantly let the poor man go and after the small crowd had dispersed, he turned to Malik.
"Ah, my apologies Your Majesty. The commoners are easily riled by foreigners, especially non-humans. In the last days of the civil war Emperor Marcus drain the city of its resources to feed him and his followers. The poor of the city suffered terribly, and have only just begun to recover. That witch Antoniae Galvisia has put on act and is attempting to rile the people of the capital against the Emperor by stealing food from the grain reserves and handing them to the people early. Of course, we cannot tell the people this or they will tear us limb from limb."
Konrad scowled, but soon continued walking. Within minutes, the group arrived at the Imperial Palace. Konrad spoke once again.
"The Emperor's inside speaking with the Kalmarnavians. These slaves will show you to your quarters. However, if you wish to speak to the emperor you may find him in the grand foyer."
And with that, the Archmagus left the royals.

The trio wave the Arch Mage good bye. They turn to the slaves. and introduce themselves. "My name is Malik, whats yours? I am from Alegeharia, the others will probably want to go their quarters but I suppose I should visit with the leader of here and make polite eh?" He walks with the other person and looks around the palace. "Quite a place here... How does the realm fair?"

Aither stares at the slave and offers a had to shake. "Well met, I am Aither Velkari, of Alegeharia it's a pleasure to meet you." Vin waved from behind Aithers back he was still holding onto his brothers back. Aither hefts him up a little higher as he walks with the slave. "So, what can you tell me about life here?"

[Phaenix]

Opiter nodded, and the gang soon had the two foreigners surrounded. The leader of the gang, Tertius Memmios Firmi, stepped forward and drew his falchion.

It was a common misconception that the first thing a Gunslinger learned how to do was fire a pistol. Adam Barber had been eleven years old when Saul Andrews first saw him and singled him out for his quick reflexes and sharp eyes. When he'd begun his training, he'd been eager to pick up one of the older man's revolvers and have a go at shooting bullseyes. Instead, he hadn't been given a gun to fire until several years later. Instead, he'd first learned how to use the weapons that God gave him: his eyes, his mind, and his other senses and instincts.

"A Gunslinger's hands are merely tools, just like a pistol's trigger," Saul Andrews had taught him. "A Gunslinger's deadliest weapon is his mind. That is what makes you deadlier than any other man."

So Adam Barber had seen the gang shadowing them out of the corner of his eye. Yet he hadn't made any moves that might betray that knowledge to their pursuers. Instead, he suggested that he and John Henry Primrose make certain turns, take particular streets, until they were in a place that he considered good ground for a fight. The street was narrow, limiting how many attackers could rush them at one time. Still, these cutpurses had brought quite a few men to the party. Adam had six shots in his revolver and plenty more ammunition on his bandolier. The trick would be timing the reloads.

"Lookie what we got here, boys. A couple of lost foreigners, and rich ones too. Hey, boy. Allow us to 'escort' you out of here, for the small price of everything you own."

"Who are you calling a boy?" John Henry Primrose demanded. "We are guests of your Emperor. I suggest you let us pass, before things turn unpleasant."

"Perhaps a bit less bravado," Adam offered quietly. He was taking a slow step, one hand lingering near the holstered gun, the other one raised with the palm facing out in a gesture that Adam figured meant something like 'now hold on here' in most cultures. "No one needs to do anything rash. We're on our way to the palace. If you show us the way, we'll pay you for your services."

John's face twisted in offended disbelief. Pay these robbers? He opened his mouth to countermand the Gunslinger's words, but closed it without saying anything. Saul Andrews had found Adam Barber on the streets, cutting purses and swindling at card and dice games. These ruffians were the sort of people he might have run with in his youth, and John figured that Adam understood how they thought. So he let his bodyguard take the lead.

Phaerix, Umbra District

Tertius tapped his falchion to his cheek a couple of times, pretending to consider it. He then shook his head and laughed.
"Who do you think you are? We've got ya outnumbered eight to one! If you won't accept our generous offer, then I guess you'll have to die. ATTA-"
Tertius' words were cut off by the bullet tearing through his skull. High General Numeri handed the legionary back his rifle and raised his sword.
"Imperial legionaries, these scum intend to sully the ground with Mr. Primrose's blood. KILL THEM ALL!"
With a yell, Numeri charged the brigands, slashing this way and that. With every slash, a brigand fell. The brigands proved to be better disciplined then most, however, and after the initial shock, most of the brigands turned to face the Imperials.
"Damn, that Primrose guy must be pretty important for the High General to come after us!"
Opiter yelled to Claudio, who swiftly cut down a young legionary with his blade.
"Well, that just means they're worth a lot o' coin. Grab em'!"
With that, both Opiter and Claudio made to drag Primrose away, both hoping that Butler turned out to be a horrible shot or that one of their pals would cut him down.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[align=center]Phaerix, Merchant District

Archmagus Konrad reluctantly let the poor man go and after the small crowd had dispersed, he turned to Malik.
"Ah, my apologies Your Majesty. The commoners are easily riled by foreigners, especially non-humans. In the last days of the civil war Emperor Marcus drain the city of its resources to feed him and his followers. The poor of the city suffered terribly, and have only just begun to recover. That witch Antoniae Galvisia has put on act and is attempting to rile the people of the capital against the Emperor by stealing food from the grain reserves and handing them to the people early. Of course, we cannot tell the people this or they will tear us limb from limb."
Konrad scowled, but soon continued walking. Within minutes, the group arrived at the Imperial Palace. Konrad spoke once again.
"The Emperor's inside speaking with the Kalmarnavians. These slaves will show you to your quarters. However, if you wish to speak to the emperor you may find him in the grand foyer."
And with that, the Archmagus left the royals.

The trio wave the Arch Mage good bye. They turn to the slaves. and introduce themselves. "My name is Malik, whats yours? I am from Alegeharia, the others will probably want to go their quarters but I suppose I should visit with the leader of here and make polite eh?" He walks with the other person and looks around the palace. "Quite a place here... How does the realm fair?"

Aither stares at the slave and offers a had to shake. "Well met, I am Aither Velkari, of Alegeharia it's a pleasure to meet you." Vin waved from behind Aithers back he was still holding onto his brothers back. Aither hefts him up a little higher as he walks with the slave. "So, what can you tell me about life here?"

Imperial Palace, Grand Foyer

The slave turned to Aither and held a blank expression.
"Life in the capital is good. The Emperor is a fair master, if that is what you are asking."
He said, however he soon silenced himself when two of the Emperor's Phoenix Guard approached.
"What were you just doing, elven filth!? The punishment for talking back to a noble is ten lashes!'
The guard then looked back at Aither and spoke once more.
"My apologies, this slave just doesn't seem to learn. This is his sixth infraction. The Emperor is right this way."
With a final glare at the elven slave, the guard turned around and opened the door to the grand foyer.
"Your Imperial Majesty, King Malik Donovan Velkari, Prince Aither Xipil Velkari, and Prince Vincent Velkari have arrived and seek an audience with you."
Emperor Titus turned from Prince Argalaic with an "excuse me one moment, my good man," and smiled.
"Welcome, King Velkari. I trust the trip was peaceful?"

[Alegeharia]

It was a common misconception that the first thing a Gunslinger learned how to do was fire a pistol. Adam Barber had been eleven years old when Saul Andrews first saw him and singled him out for his quick reflexes and sharp eyes. When he'd begun his training, he'd been eager to pick up one of the older man's revolvers and have a go at shooting bullseyes. Instead, he hadn't been given a gun to fire until several years later. Instead, he'd first learned how to use the weapons that God gave him: his eyes, his mind, and his other senses and instincts.

"A Gunslinger's hands are merely tools, just like a pistol's trigger," Saul Andrews had taught him. "A Gunslinger's deadliest weapon is his mind. That is what makes you deadlier than any other man."

So Adam Barber had seen the gang shadowing them out of the corner of his eye. Yet he hadn't made any moves that might betray that knowledge to their pursuers. Instead, he suggested that he and John Henry Primrose make certain turns, take particular streets, until they were in a place that he considered good ground for a fight. The street was narrow, limiting how many attackers could rush them at one time. Still, these cutpurses had brought quite a few men to the party. Adam had six shots in his revolver and plenty more ammunition on his bandolier. The trick would be timing the reloads.



"Who are you calling a boy?" John Henry Primrose demanded. "We are guests of your Emperor. I suggest you let us pass, before things turn unpleasant."

"Perhaps a bit less bravado," Adam offered quietly. He was taking a slow step, one hand lingering near the holstered gun, the other one raised with the palm facing out in a gesture that Adam figured meant something like 'now hold on here' in most cultures. "No one needs to do anything rash. We're on our way to the palace. If you show us the way, we'll pay you for your services."

John's face twisted in offended disbelief. Pay these robbers? He opened his mouth to countermand the Gunslinger's words, but closed it without saying anything. Saul Andrews had found Adam Barber on the streets, cutting purses and swindling at card and dice games. These ruffians were the sort of people he might have run with in his youth, and John figured that Adam understood how they thought. So he let his bodyguard take the lead.

Phaerix, Umbra District

Tertius tapped his falchion to his cheek a couple of times, pretending to consider it. He then shook his head and laughed.
"Who do you think you are? We've got ya outnumbered eight to one! If you won't accept our generous offer, then I guess you'll have to die. ATTA-"
Tertius' words were cut off by the bullet tearing through his skull. High General Numeri handed the legionary back his rifle and raised his sword.
"Imperial legionaries, these scum intend to sully the ground with Mr. Primrose's blood. KILL THEM ALL!"
With a yell, Numeri charged the brigands, slashing this way and that. With every slash, a brigand fell. The brigands proved to be better disciplined then most, however, and after the initial shock, most of the brigands turned to face the Imperials.
"Damn, that Primrose guy must be pretty important for the High General to come after us!"
Opiter yelled to Claudio, who swiftly cut down a young legionary with his blade.
"Well, that just means they're worth a lot o' coin. Grab em'!"
With that, both Opiter and Claudio made to drag Primrose away, both hoping that Butler turned out to be a horrible shot or that one of their pals would cut him down.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The trio wave the Arch Mage good bye. They turn to the slaves. and introduce themselves. "My name is Malik, whats yours? I am from Alegeharia, the others will probably want to go their quarters but I suppose I should visit with the leader of here and make polite eh?" He walks with the other person and looks around the palace. "Quite a place here... How does the realm fair?"

Aither stares at the slave and offers a had to shake. "Well met, I am Aither Velkari, of Alegeharia it's a pleasure to meet you." Vin waved from behind Aithers back he was still holding onto his brothers back. Aither hefts him up a little higher as he walks with the slave. "So, what can you tell me about life here?"

[align=center]Imperial Palace, Grand Foyer

The slave turned to Aither and held a blank expression.
"Life in the capital is good. The Emperor is a fair master, if that is what you are asking."
He said, however he soon silenced himself when two of the Emperor's Phoenix Guard approached.
"What were you just doing, elven filth!? The punishment for talking back to a noble is ten lashes!'
The guard then looked back at Aither and spoke once more.
"My apologies, this slave just doesn't seem to learn. This is his sixth infraction. The Emperor is right this way."
With a final glare at the elven slave, the guard turned around and opened the door to the grand foyer.
"Your Imperial Majesty, King Malik Donovan Velkari, Prince Aither Xipil Velkari, and Prince Vincent Velkari have arrived and seek an audience with you."
Emperor Titus turned from Prince Argalaic with an "excuse me one moment, my good man," and smiled.
"Welcome, King Velkari. I trust the trip was peaceful?"

Aither sighed. "No its quite all right, I was merely asking him a question. No harm has been done, not yet at least him?" Aither stared down the guard eyes tunneling into him as if there was fire behind the iris. "Surely with no rule broken, lashes are unnecessary?" Aither stayed near the slave and the guard as Malik moved forward.

Malik waved at the person and smiled. "Malik is fine, the trip was fun, it has shown me many things about your place, but I wish to know more, its quite a perplexing situation here hmm? Completely surrounded by water! Very....artificial." Malik chuffed in delight and thought for a bit. "I have heard talks of an-" with slight hesitation to change his words "-excuse me, of a angel in this city. Is this place religious? Perhaps we share a common religion then."

[Phaenix]

Phaerix, Umbra District

Tertius tapped his falchion to his cheek a couple of times, pretending to consider it. He then shook his head and laughed.
"Who do you think you are? We've got ya outnumbered eight to one! If you won't accept our generous offer, then I guess you'll have to die. ATTA-"
Tertius' words were cut off by the bullet tearing through his skull. High General Numeri handed the legionary back his rifle and raised his sword.
"Imperial legionaries, these scum intend to sully the ground with Mr. Primrose's blood. KILL THEM ALL!"
With a yell, Numeri charged the brigands, slashing this way and that. With every slash, a brigand fell. The brigands proved to be better disciplined then most, however, and after the initial shock, most of the brigands turned to face the Imperials.
"Damn, that Primrose guy must be pretty important for the High General to come after us!"
Opiter yelled to Claudio, who swiftly cut down a young legionary with his blade.
"Well, that just means they're worth a lot o' coin. Grab em'!"
With that, both Opiter and Claudio made to drag Primrose away, both hoping that Butler turned out to be a horrible shot or that one of their pals would cut him down.
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[align=center]Imperial Palace, Grand Foyer

The slave turned to Aither and held a blank expression.
"Life in the capital is good. The Emperor is a fair master, if that is what you are asking."
He said, however he soon silenced himself when two of the Emperor's Phoenix Guard approached.
"What were you just doing, elven filth!? The punishment for talking back to a noble is ten lashes!'
The guard then looked back at Aither and spoke once more.
"My apologies, this slave just doesn't seem to learn. This is his sixth infraction. The Emperor is right this way."
With a final glare at the elven slave, the guard turned around and opened the door to the grand foyer.
"Your Imperial Majesty, King Malik Donovan Velkari, Prince Aither Xipil Velkari, and Prince Vincent Velkari have arrived and seek an audience with you."
Emperor Titus turned from Prince Argalaic with an "excuse me one moment, my good man," and smiled.
"Welcome, King Velkari. I trust the trip was peaceful?"

Aither sighed. "No its quite all right, I was merely asking him a question. No harm has been done, not yet at least him?" Aither stared down the guard eyes tunneling into him as if there was fire behind the iris. "Surely with no rule broken, lashes are unnecessary?" Aither stayed near the slave and the guard as Malik moved forward.

Malik waved at the person and smiled. "Malik is fine, the trip was fun, it has shown me many things about your place, but I wish to know more, its quite a perplexing situation here hmm? Completely surrounded by water! Very....artificial." Malik chuffed in delight and thought for a bit. "I have heard talks of an-" with slight hesitation to change his words "-excuse me, of a angel in this city. Is this place religious? Perhaps we share a common religion then."

Imperial Palace, Grand Foyer

At the mention of an angel, Emperor Titus' smile fell from his face. He sighed and spoke once more.
"That 'angel' would be my betrothed, though the fact she appeared from nowhere and acts like our enemy has not stopped the commonfolk from worshiping the ground she walks on. What's worse is that she has managed to convince the people that I have sat idle in the palace twiddling my thumbs while my people were cold and hungry! That woman is no angel, but a she-devil, sent to plague me for whatever reason."
Once the Emperor had finished his tirade, he realized he had said all of that out loud. He glared at every guard, servant, and slave in the room.
"Not a word of this to anyone, understand? If I hear that any of you repeated so much as a syllable of what you heard here, then I will make the Infernium seem like a pleasant vacation."
His subjects nodded furiously and hurried to leave the room. Titus turned back to the various royals in the room and bowed his head.
"My apologies for the outburst. I have worked day and night to get this Empire back on track after the war, and it has left me irritable. But to your question on whether we share a faith, I'm afraid we don't. We Imperials worship the Great Phoenix, who blesses us with glory and victory," Emperor Titus frowned, "though I've felt a noticeable lack of His presence lately."
Titus snapped out of his thoughts and looked up once more.
"Anyway, we can discuss theology another time. For now, I must retire and ready myself to meet with the other guests, if they ever arrive."
With that Emperor Titus left the royals, and returned to his quarters.

[Kalmarnavia]

Argalaic stared at the...creatures which had just arrived and presented themselves to the Emperor. He tried to not. He really, truly tried.

But he couldn't help it. The Scholars had told of a great many unknown races in the world, but one of this type...well even old Master Scholar Garron had put them down to legend. There was no way around staring at them, no distraction, no-

Dontas appeared at the steps leading down into the foyer, quite oblivious to the guests who had just appeared. He noticed them a split second after spying Arge's frantic, waving hand calling him over.
He slowly edged towards the Prince.

"What a-"
"Hmghfm!"
"Wh-"
"Hmghfm say nothing don't make it obvious be polite, be polite!" Arge was whispering, low and fast and urgent.

He backed away, ever so slightly, trying to get a little out of earshot.

"Don't say anything. Don't speak. Wait for the Emperor to introduce me."
"What...what are they?"
"Well presumably just another race of beings, Don. But yes they are...beyond anything we've seen. And we see dragons on a daily bloody basis. Just...smile. Stand and smile."
"...that'll make us look mad?"
"Don't. Make. Me. Pull.Rank."

And with that, Dontas joined his Prince in being absolutely not mad, straining to look far removed from mad, on the edge of the conversation. Grinning. Like they were either mad, or awkwardly hovering on the edge of a conversation.

[Phaenix]

Argalaic stared at the...creatures which had just arrived and presented themselves to the Emperor. He tried to not. He really, truly tried.

But he couldn't help it. The Scholars had told of a great many unknown races in the world, but one of this type...well even old Master Scholar Garron had put them down to legend. There was no way around staring at them, no distraction, no-

Dontas appeared at the steps leading down into the foyer, quite oblivious to the guests who had just appeared. He noticed them a split second after spying Arge's frantic, waving hand calling him over.
He slowly edged towards the Prince.

"What a-"
"Hmghfm!"
"Wh-"
"Hmghfm say nothing don't make it obvious be polite, be polite!" Arge was whispering, low and fast and urgent.

He backed away, ever so slightly, trying to get a little out of earshot.

"Don't say anything. Don't speak. Wait for the Emperor to introduce me."
"What...what are they?"
"Well presumably just another race of beings, Don. But yes they are...beyond anything we've seen. And we see dragons on a daily bloody basis. Just...smile. Stand and smile."
"...that'll make us look mad?"
"Don't. Make. Me. Pull.Rank."

And with that, Dontas joined his Prince in being absolutely not mad, straining to look far removed from mad, on the edge of the conversation. Grinning. Like they were either mad, or awkwardly hovering on the edge of a conversation.

Imperial Palace, Grand Foyer

Before the Emperor left, he introduced the newcomers to the Prince.
"King Malik, this is Prince Argalaic, of the House Wend and his companion, See Dontas Greenbow. Now that that's out of the way, please excuse me, as I must prepare for the other guests."
With the introductions finished, the Emperor left to prepare for the other dignitaries.
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Phaerix, Victory Gate

"You damn glorified watchdog! Open the godsdamned gate at once! We've been invited by your Emperor to attend the bloody wedding!"
This stream of anger originated from High King Siganeld Thrice-Swords, High King of Nralskar.
"I don't care if you were sent by the Great Phoenix Himself, until the messenger from the palace returns, you barbarians can stay out there."
Jarl Kuntryr Sororinsen rode up to the High King.
"We could maybe break the gates upon. Soul-Mug's already drunk, and the thanes are melting out here. Perhaps-"
Kuntryr was cut off by the sound of the gates opening.
"Alright, you dirty barbarians. The messenger confirmed your story. You may enter the Alabaster City.
As the Nrali looked around at the human waste and starving people of the Umbra District, they figured that this claim was not entirely true. Suddenly, Thane Silppr Gold-Strider stopped.
"D'ya hear that? Sounds like battle."
Thane Filnfur the Large cracked his knuckled and pulled out his battle-axe.
"My lord, the ride here was long and boring. A little blood-spilling couldn't hurt."
Jarl Yngntr Soul-Mug guffawed at that, the stench of mead strong on his breath.
"Except for those poor sods who have to face us!"
The High King decided that no one would miss a few dead lowlifes, so the dismounted and charged down the alleyway. What they expected was a few drunken guards in a scuffle. What they found was a full-on battle between Imperials and a group of bandits.
"CHAAAARGE! Herlighet til de gamle guder!"
The High King yelled, and with the addition of the Nrali, the bandits began to fall quicker and were losing ground.