The Eternal Star [Fantasy / Adventure] - IC

[Nagakawa]

Patrycja Juliste Swierczewski | 1st Day of the 5th Month, 2365

“Pardon me if I am speaking out of turn, Prince Vidhura, but a journey like this has surely had months of planning and provisioning put into it already. When will we meet your retainers? Or do you have them up North, helping to organise a fleet?”

“Rest assured, Madame, I have the networks necessary to procure whatever logistical support we require.” Prince Vidhura turned to Juliste, casting her a knowing and almost mournful nod. "What I have been lacking, unfortunately, is manpower.

"You see... this journey is controversial, to say the least." As Vidhura spoke, Channa quietly fixed her gaze on Juliste, watching her intently while still keeping the book in the periphery of her vision. "I have made many an effort to enlist the backing of the Imperial government, but I'm sure you are aware that matters pertaining to auros are... contentious. Believe me, it has been difficult enough to obfuscate my activities from the rest of the court. Channa and Chanakyarishi can attest to that. Agni's military is powerful, and does not take kindly to challenges to the status quo."

Prince Vidhura paused, inhaling deeply and pursing his lips tightly. His manner of speech was eloquent and refined, but Channa could not help but notice that he seemed a little tense - almost unnerved, even - by Juliste's frank question and, more broadly, by the assembly he had summoned before him.

Another question soon came: this time from Karl.

"I have the same concerns as the girl. The veracity of these papers aside, I do not intend to make my way back to the North only to be barred by the ocean. We need ships, well-supplied ones at that." He paused, judging his next words, before stating "I can help arrange such transports - I have leftover contacts from Tavatimsa, but they would most likely only agree to ferry us to Krakoyea, no further."

"Excellent. Your assistance in procuring those transports will be greatly appreciated." Prince Vidhura turned to Karl. "My retainer Channa has informed me that we have, among us, a subordinate of the Krakoyean Adjudicator."

Here, Vidhura gestured to Mona and nodded affirmatively to acknowledge her presence, before returning to address Karl.

"Prince Vidhura, if I may. Captain Janaka was one of a kind, but even he did not operate with miracles - the mark of a good Captain, and a successful voyage, is organisation." He stopped, suddenly. A realisation struck him, and he voiced it bluntly, "Why did you procure us - commoners from the masses - instead of hiring mercenaries or employing troops loyal to your household?"

"Money is not an issue for me", he explained. "I have spoken to private contractors, who are willing to provide us with the resources we desire. The problem, as I mentioned to the good lady just now, is that I have not been able to procure manpower. Though I am a prince and a son of the Emperor, my influence within the court of Agni is limited.

"Believe me, when I say I have made many an attempt to secure backing from the Agnian maritime associations, and from the privateers and mercenaries recognised by the imperial court. But the nature of my quest has made it very difficult... and few, besides my loyal retainer Channa, and my tutor and advisor Chanakyarishi, heeded my requests."

There seemed to be almost a tinge of sadness in Vidhura's words, though he did well to cover it up. Channa remained silent, quietly scanning the others in the room.

"The recruitment letters you saw in Ava were my last resort", Vidhura continued. "As Agnian royalty, it is out of the question for me to approach the governments and guilds of the other nations, even in secret. And thus, I have resorted to this option.

"Most of you may not possess the same accreditation as the guilds... but it is something I am willing to work around. I would not dream of paying insult to whatever skills you may possess. We will do what we must to make up for our lack of backing."

Again, the Prince paused, and the room fell briefly into silence. The faint sound of footsteps outside could be heard. Channa cast a glance at Vidhura, who then cleared his throat.

"Ah, my apologies", he said to Juliste and to Karl. "How may I address you, Madame? Sir?"

...

[Naval Monte]

Morgana was pleased to hear that the man wishing to challenge her can see reason and refrain from causing unnecessary conflict. "If you wish to fight then we will do so once we hear what the Prince has to say and can leave this establishment. I rather not be saddle with debts that I can't payback." she would hear a crash and turn her attention away from Jian to see the source.

Her eyes widen when she saw the Walrus man. "Professor Frumbarius." familiarity rang out from her voice as she approached him. "It's been a while since we have last met. How has the mainlanders treated you?" the woman gave him a small smile. Before she can say anymore the masked man would approach the two, apparently a fan of the doctor's work. He also asked if he needs assistance. "It might be best if you take a seat and rest for now." Morgana added after Leo was finish speaking.

The woman's attention would shift to Channa as she tapped her cane on the floor. She would announce that now was time for everyone to meet the prince. She turn back to Frumbarius. "I suppose we could discuss on how our lives have been later. It was good seeing you again, professor." she gave him a small bow before she would follow Channa.

As the group went through the corridor she glance at the copies of the Maha Intharakien. She knew of the epic. She has seen a copy of it within the great library back in her family's estates. That one was translated from the Suvarnabhumi script to Krakoyean. While the two were northern states and have shared historical events and moments that didn't means they be almost identical with each other. The two diverted into different paths very early as the North Sea separated them. Their script is a testament to Krakoyea and Suvarnabhumi's divergent development.

She looked at the book weary to make sure the feeling she had of being watch was just the general atmosphere the books produced in the room and it wasn't part of something more unusual.

The concern of whether some unseen entity was truly watching them would be put aside once she reached the room where the prince held himself in; reading a book from the extensive collection that surrounded him.

He would offer everyone a seat to sit down. Morgana would accept his generosity and sit down. She held her cane with both of her hands.

The prince would open the clasp of one of the book as he began to explain why everyone was here. Saying he had proof that there was land beyond her home islands. The woman kept a neutral expression which she was glad for she would have made it very obvious that she didn't believe his claim. He would show a map of Aurora. When he moved his fingers to the corner she noticed the fold and tilted her head slightly to the left to show her intrigue on the fold.

Once the fold was pulled it would reveal the same map. But now a new landmass was revealed. One directly above Krakoyea. Her eyes widen fully once she saw it. The aloof mask she wore would only shatter once she hears about how a captain would somehow find this land from above. The reveal would finally make the woman show genuine emotions as she was trying to process everything that she heard.

"I.. I can't believe it..." she shook her head in disbelief. "How can someone find a way to enter the Hinterlands with their physical body?" she questioned the prince.

"Many have tried to find the gateway that is said to be above Krakoyea but most fail. A good deal never returning from sea. We accepted that mortals were never meant to find a way enter the Land of the Moon. Yet, you expect me to believe that someone manage to do so, and a merchant no less." the coldness return but now it fit especially bitter as she was struggling to believe what was shown to her.

[Thexaelen]

Ardarnas was taken aback by the appearance of the Odobarian, a Walrus man. Despite feeling familiar with this particular individual, Dr. Frumbarius, he was still taken aback. But the matter at hand was more pressing; they were finally in the presence of the Prince.

"Your Highness," Ardarnas spoke up, "if I may ask, I have a few associates who may be willing to lend a hand in this expedition. Additionally, I have a question about the Auron Well. Assuming its existence is indeed real, how would we go about extracting its contents?"

Ardarnas carefully chose his words, making sure to show proper respect to the Prince while also conveying his eagerness to be involved in this mission. He hoped to provide a valuable contribution and gain more information about the Auron Well in the process.

[Aithervale]

Adrax looked up from the book. "I have a better question. When do we get paid?"

[Novovaritsya]

Adrax looked up from the book. "I have a better question. When do we get paid?"

"Not that fast, man," Warel turned to Adrax, "You'll need to go through the journey first. Money doesn't come from a tree if you are a hardworking man; we paved our way to it. Beside, I ain't looking for the prize."

Warel then turned to the prince, took his hat off and then he said, "Pardon me, Your Highness," Warel said. He stood up from his seat, and then he bowed to the prince before he said, "My name is Warel Venstorm, and I was a corporal in the Osarican National Army. Speaking of which, have you tried to diplomatically negotiate this matter with other countries or their military? And are we the only ones who cared about this world and went on this journey? And what if another countries are secretly doing the same but they used their military instead? Please forgive me if I sound disrespectful, Your Highness." Warel bowed to the prince, but he didn't return to his seat.

[Nagakawa]

"I.. I can't believe it..." she shook her head in disbelief. "How can someone find a way to enter the Hinterlands with their physical body?" she questioned the prince.

"Many have tried to find the gateway that is said to be above Krakoyea but most fail. A good deal never returning from sea. We accepted that mortals were never meant to find a way enter the Land of the Moon. Yet, you expect me to believe that someone manage to do so, and a merchant no less." the coldness return but now it fit especially bitter as she was struggling to believe what was shown to her.

"The magick practised in Tavatimsa is powerful, Madame Windwalker", Prince Vidhura answered Mona grimly. "Far stronger, if I may be so bold, than Krakoyea would care to admit. I know not how Captain Janaka was able to traverse the Hinterland... but the method he used may not yet be lost to history."

Vidhura paused and looked every person in the room in the eye with complete seriousness and reverence - including the masked Leo and Dr Frumbarius, comical as some of the others found him in appearance.

"There is one remaining member of Captain Janaka's crew who still lives", Vidhura revealed to the group. "His name is Koba, and he was the apothecary and physician aboard the Samjang... Captain Janaka's vessel. He is nearing his one hundredth year, but I am told he continues to remain in good health, living in Karkiemi."

A brief silence fell over the room, and Vidhura peered at the book laid out on the table.

"I will see to it that we meet him", he added, "so we may learn more about what is not recorded in this journal."

Adrax looked up from the book. "I have a better question. When do we get paid?"

"I will pay you out of the promised 500 million ingots at various junctures through the journey", Vidhura answered Adrax with a smile. "Rest assured, money is not an issue for me, and I will see to it that you are all compensated fairly for your efforts... even if you do not follow us to the very end."

"Your Highness," Ardarnas spoke up, "if I may ask, I have a few associates who may be willing to lend a hand in this expedition. Additionally, I have a question about the Auron Well. Assuming its existence is indeed real, how would we go about extracting its contents?"

"I must apologise, sir... for I am not familiar with this 'Auron Well' of which you speak", Vidhura answered Ardarnas. "If by that name you mean the Eternal Star, then I may perhaps shed a bit of light on your query."

Here, Vidhura walked over to where Captain Janaka's journal had been laid out, thumbing through to a page slightly before the map.

"Here", he said, interpreting the Suvarnabhumi script for those in attendance who could not read it, "Captain Janaka writes that the Eternal Star did not appear to be of a particularly unknowable form of magick. He follows up here on the next page..." - Vidhura flipped the page and slid his finger across the text - "... saying that there were people in Krakoyea who had developed theories on the substance of the Eternal Star, which he regrets that nobody in his crew were sufficiently proficient in the magick arts to fully comprehend. What this means for us is that as long as we have Mona with us, we should be able to discern, when we are in Krakoyea, the means by which we can harness the Eternal Star's energy."

Vidhura concluded by turning to face Ardarnas.

"If I am mistaken", he added, "and you are in fact referring to something else, then I should say that we can make a detour, if time permits, to investigate this 'Auron Well'."

Having addressed Mona's, Ardarnas', and Adrax's queries, Vidhura then turned to Warel.

"My name is Warel Venstorm, and I was a corporal in the Osarican National Army. Speaking of which, have you tried to diplomatically negotiate this matter with other countries or their military? And are we the only ones who cared about this world and went on this journey? And what if another countries are secretly doing the same but they used their military instead? Please forgive me if I sound disrespectful, Your Highness." Warel bowed to the prince, but he didn't return to his seat.

"I thank you for coming here today, Sir Warel", he addressed the Osarican respectfully. "Your question is valid, and as for what you have raised... believe me, I have tried all that I can within my power to ascertain the nature of the matter.

"Unfortunately, I am as shackled by my royal status as I am empowered by it. What I can do, in regards to my efforts to pursue this matter, is greatly limited by the dictates of Imperial Agnian doctrines on relations with the other powers. Were I one of the great merchants of the world, rather than royalty, you would find me far more free to do as I deem fit. But such are the circumstances. It is what it is.

"Regarding your second and third queries, my questioning of Agnian intelligence has turned up no information on efforts by any other people to pursue this. It is, after all, a mere legend; one that Captain Janaka tried to pursue, only to be suppressed by the Special Inquisitor of the time. It is fairly safe to say that we are the only ones currently who are seriously pursuing this matter."

With that, Prince Vidhura exhaled deeply.

"Please", he urged the others in the room. "Do not hesitate to ask me what you will. I do not mean in the slightest to pressure you into joining me on this journey."

...

[Aithervale]

"I will pay you out of the promised 500 million ingots at various junctures through the journey", Vidhura answered Adrax with a smile. "Rest assured, money is not an issue for me, and I will see to it that you are all compensated fairly for your efforts... even if you do not follow us to the very end."

Adrax nodded. "When are we leaving?"

[Novovaritsya]

..."I thank you for coming here today, Sir Warel", he addressed the Osarican respectfully. "Your question is valid, and as for what you have raised... believe me, I have tried all that I can within my power to ascertain the nature of the matter.

"Unfortunately, I am as shackled by my royal status as I am empowered by it. What I can do, in regards to my efforts to pursue this matter, is greatly limited by the dictates of Imperial Agnian doctrines on relations with the other powers. Were I one of the great merchants of the world, rather than royalty, you would find me far more free to do as I deem fit. But such are the circumstances. It is what it is.

"Regarding your second and third queries, my questioning of Agnian intelligence has turned up no information on efforts by any other people to pursue this. It is, after all, a mere legend; one that Captain Janaka tried to pursue, only to be suppressed by the Special Inquisitor of the time. It is fairly safe to say that we are the only ones currently who are seriously pursuing this matter."...

"That is understandable, Your Highness," Warel replied. "I am looking forward to proving to the world that not all legends are supposed to be fictional. I wish for the best of us all and the success of this expedition. It will be an honor to serve beside you, Your Highness."

Warel bowed to the prince. He then put his hat on and sat down.

"I will pay you out of the promised 500 million ingots at various junctures through the journey", Vidhura answered Adrax with a smile. "Rest assured, money is not an issue for me, and I will see to it that you are all compensated fairly for your efforts... even if you do not follow us to the very end."

Adrax nodded. "When are we leaving?"

"Now that's the spirit I've been waiting to hear all this day," Warel said. He relaxed in his seat, waiting for the prince to answer.

[Naval Monte]

"I.. I can't believe it..." she shook her head in disbelief. "How can someone find a way to enter the Hinterlands with their physical body?" she questioned the prince.

"Many have tried to find the gateway that is said to be above Krakoyea but most fail. A good deal never returning from sea. We accepted that mortals were never meant to find a way enter the Land of the Moon. Yet, you expect me to believe that someone manage to do so, and a merchant no less." the coldness return but now it fit especially bitter as she was struggling to believe what was shown to her.

"The magick practised in Tavatimsa is powerful, Madame Windwalker", Prince Vidhura answered Mona grimly. "Far stronger, if I may be so bold, than Krakoyea would care to admit. I know not how Captain Janaka was able to traverse the Hinterland... but the method he used may not yet be lost to history."

Vidhura paused and looked every person in the room in the eye with complete seriousness and reverence - including the masked Leo and Dr Frumbarius, comical as some of the others found him in appearance.

"There is one remaining member of Captain Janaka's crew who still lives", Vidhura revealed to the group. "His name is Koba, and he was the apothecary and physician aboard the Samjang... Captain Janaka's vessel. He is nearing his one hundredth year, but I am told he continues to remain in good health, living in Karkiemi."

A brief silence fell over the room, and Vidhura peered at the book laid out on the table.

The woman was silent as she tried to contemplate the revelation that the magic of Tavatimsa could somehow allow for entrance to the Hinterlands while one keeps their physical body. Throughout her life the stories she heard of those who enter the fable lands often told on how they need to release their spirit to enter the lands. Yet somehow this Captain Janaka manage to do what many great Grymkona couldn't.

However she still kept herself alert to hear about Koba, the last surviving member of the Captain's crew, being in Karkiemi and in somehow in great health.

"What should we do if this Koba refuse to be cooperative with us on sharing what he knows?" Morgana asked as her usual aloof expression return after the momentary confusion and surprise she experienced. "More importantly, what should we do if agents from the other nations start to show interest in our mission? Enough that they may try to sabotage our efforts?"

"Here", he said, interpreting the Suvarnabhumi script for those in attendance who could not read it, "Captain Janaka writes that the Eternal Star did not appear to be of a particularly unknowable form of magick. He follows up here on the next page..." - Vidhura flipped the page and slid his finger across the text - "... saying that there were people in Krakoyea who had developed theories on the substance of the Eternal Star, which he regrets that nobody in his crew were sufficiently proficient in the magick arts to fully comprehend. What this means for us is that as long as we have Mona with us, we should be able to discern, when we are in Krakoyea, the means by which we can harness the Eternal Star's energy."

Mona was silent once more once she heard him say that people from her island have developed not only theories on the substance of the Star but perhaps means on harnessing the Star's energy.

She didn't want to admit but there were secrets she knew her family was keeping from her. She has done plenty to prove that she was worthy of being adopted to the family and to be at her current station. Yet now she still needs to prove herself to learn all of her family's secrets.

"Could this be one of them?" she thought to herself. Her hand gripping at the cane tightly, her hand trembling from a surge of emotions that was only barely contained.

[Great Confederacy of Commonwealth States]

While Frumbarius had not expected to be recognised so far away from home, he should have realised that any expedition dealing with the legend of the Eternal Star would attract people with at least a cursory familiarity with his field. So it was that, within ten seconds of resting his weary body on a sturdy seat, he was approached by a few people apparently familiar with his work. While ever-humble outwardly, Frumbarius could not help but feel a tinge of pride at being recognised in public, not in the least by a person whom he did not recognise in return, not in the least because they were wearing a mask.

"Professor... Fumbarius?" Said the masked man, though Frumbarius was at a loss as to why he had a mask on at all. "I've read your journals when I was in Baran, specifically Old Kasteran. Oh and, uh, do you require... aid?"

That was it, Frumbarius thought. This was one of the Sixth... Seventh... Either Order. The Wars of Yutani Liberation were too recent to be within his area of interest, and too far back to be part of his upbringing, but the development of the recently-liberated colony had been all the talk when he was in university, if only because the Peninsular elites educated there expected the nacent government to fall any day now, an expectation that has fuelled them for the previous 5 decades. Frumbarius shook his head.

"Nonsense, dear boy" he exclaimed. "I am perfectly alright, just... need..." he puffed, lacking the breath to actually form the words describing what it was he needed to be doing. "I..." he tried again, but the tap of footsteps on the hard-stone library floor drew his attention, and he looked up to see who approached.

"Why... do I... ever!" Professor Frumbarius exclaimed as he laid eyes upon the stern-faced Krakoyean woman approaching him. "Miss Windwalker, what a genuinly welcome surprise. Age sits on you like a silver crown" he said.

"Professor Frumbarius" Morgana said, flashing the smallest of her trademark smilettes. Achieving even the faintest of outward affections was worth its weight tenfold in gold when addressing the normally reserved daughter of the Windwalker family. "It's been a while since we have last met. How has the mainlanders treated you?"

Frumbarius returned her kind affections with a broad smile, eager to engage with an old friend. "With as gracious a hospitality as can be expected" the professor replied, "which in Krakoyea would have been considered a slight worthy of a duel, I imagine" he said, chuckling lowly under his thick, bristling moustache.

"Forgive my impertinence, but though I am happy to see you I must... inquire; what brings... one of the... Grymnkonas so far..." he began, but even halfway through the sentence he could feel the climbed stairs taking their toll again, and the professor was reduced to laboured breathing again. He held up his hand in apology, but Morgana, as always, was nothing but courteous.

"It might be best if you take a seat and rest for now." Morgana added after the masked Yutani had finished speaking, and Frumbarius nodded thankfully, embarassed that he could not return the same courtesy to an old friend. Age crowned Morgana, but Frumbarius pulled his behind him like a ball and chain. Before he could catch his breath and inquire into how Morgana had been, they were interrupted by the woman Channa, whom had been designated as their point of contact for the mission.

"It is good to see you all here today", she said, modulating her volume so as to be audible to everyone present, but not overly loud that it would be disruptive to the few other patrons of the library. "I believe it's high time we go."

"I suppose we could discuss on how our lives have been later. It was good seeing you again, professor." she gave him a small bow before she followed Channa. When all his soon-to-be comrades had left the main hall, Frumbarius staggered to his feet and lumbered after them, being one of the last to enter the hall where they finally met prince Vidhura.

If Frumbarius had to use one word to describe Vidhura, it was 'understated'. He reminded Frumbarius somewhat of a steel forge in a factory. A machine that looked unmovable in its grandeur, silent like a mountain, which looked harmless enough but yet contained in itself a flame so powerful as to be able to melt rock, and so muted that one could hardly read a book by its light. Until the furnace was opened. Vidhura carried the trappings of royalty so naturally as to be almost one with them, but where in others it was distracting and jarring, with him it complemented his demeanour so well that one might think he had been born a prince. Which, of course, he had, but not many princes actually looked like they had. As Vidhura spoke, his words too complemented his whole appearance, in the way that an actor can read a line so well that one forgets he is a character in a play.

Frumbarius was too late into the room to claim a chair for himself, but as soon as prince VIdhura called attention to the gold-clasped book, all need to rest his weary legs was forgotten, and Frumbarius pushed himself as far forward as he could without shoving anyone aside. Like the prince explained, it was written in Ava, a quick and restless hand.

"By the Veil..." Frumbarius exclaimed with an audible gasp, as the prince explained what was contained within the book. Being perfectly honest, Frumbarius had been half-expecting he was going to have to unmask a fraud running around with apparent forgeries, pretending to be an Agnian prince. But this looked to be the real deal. It was rare to find a document that had somehow slipped through the otherwise tightly-shut fingers of the Agnian inquisition, and Frumbarius had had to wade through the mire of bureaucracy that the inquisition required to obtain a permit for Agnian excavation. His stayover in Ava had at least been partially motivated because he found the prospect of waiting for permission in Ava to be much more agreeable than awaiting permission under the watchful eye of the inquisition.

At that moment, Vidhura began taking questions, but all the sound in the world could no longer perturb the odobaran scholar, who had finally wormed his way through the crowd and towards the table, where the journal was now proudly dispalying itself. Under the watchful eye of Channa, Frumbarius procured two silk gloves from his coat pocket, and a jewellers monocle from his suitcase. Careful as a cat with her kitten, Frumbarius caressed the old pages, inspecting the ink, the drawings, the maps, the word-usage... Everything pointed towards this being a genuine captain's journal. He turned some of the pages, every time expecting some fanciful mention of dragons or monsters or some other impossibility, much like the largely-fantasized travel journals of the 2200s, but to his absolute astonishment some of the descriptions of Krakoyea and the North Sea were even more detailled than his own notes had been.

"Rest assured, lieutenant Björn" Frumbarius said in a low, grave voice, much different from his delivery of light-hearted comments before. "Its veracity is not in question" he said. He slumped back in a chair, which luckily bore his weight, though the professor could not have cared for the world if it had. A source of previously-unknown magick. Lore from Krakoyea that had been previously unknown to him. And, judging from her genuine reaction, which had been unknown to Morgana Windwalker. While her knowledge would have been helpful, Frumbarius was happy to learn that she had not been holding out on him when he visited her island, her being blindsided by this knowledge as well as he was. The prospect, however, of traveling to the far north and unearthing this trove of knowledge... Frumbarius felt a tear roll down his cheek, and quickly pushed the tome away to protect it from any damage an errant tear could do to it.

"Where... where did you find this?" Frumbarius managed to get out, his monocle still clinging to the folds around his eyes.

[Menschenfleisch]

Patrycja Juliste Swierczewski | 1st Day of the 5th Month, 2365

"I'm Research Associate Swierczewski. I'm a member-on-leave of the Kalkiemi Institute of Ecology."

The prince's perturbation was clear to see. She could only assume that the break in his posture, even as brief and forgivable as it was, had been visible to all the others sitting at the table. Her introduction kept the door closed to deeper affiliations, making it clear that her intended relationship with the prince was purely a superficial, professional acquaintanceship. But as she watched him collect and recompose himself, a wave of pity washed over her. She knew that it was an irrelevant and misguided feeling, as the prince's emotions were surely more resilient than cold words from a stranger could shake. Yet, she only stopped just short of an apology. Instead, she twisted the knob and pushed just a little, to show that the door wasn't locked.

"If you don't want to call me Associate though, my name is Patrycja. I go by my middle name, Juliste. If you can think of a more workable abbreviation, you can use that too."

She gave a wry smile. Tried to be wry, anyway. Maybe it just came off as patently racist, the way that she assumed that a well-read man like the prince wouldn't be able to replicate her tongue. She found herself far more considerate of the prince's feelings than she'd expected. Maybe it was the sombre sadness in his eyes that moved her. Perhaps it was the story he told through the negative space of his speech; a tale of being left behind by his friends and refused by his advisors. She glanced up at the appearance of an Odobarian. She was a well-travelled person but she'd never seen such a... specimen in the flesh. It took a great deal of self restraint not to rise from her chair and squeeze his cheeks.

She cleared her throat and looked the prince in the eye once more. She couldn't possibly know if he was doing this out of love for his family, pressure from the court, or a desire to undermine the legitimacy of his siblings. Nevertheless: "I look forward to working with you, Prince Vidhura. I'm sure you'll do your family proud."

[Theyra]

Mykolas Nolius
Library

Mykolas, instead of sitting down, he chose to stay standing and listened and watched silently as the prince and others took time to talk about the Land of the Sun. True to be told, he was not expecting an Odobaran to be among the interested people here. Granted, while he has heard of them, Mykolas never saw one in person before and is surprised that what he has heard about them not being false.

But the fact of the matter is that the prince has proof that the Land of the Sun exists in the form of an old captain's journal. He can not say he was familiar with the explorer as the prince has stated. Mykolas only thought about how this pipe dream might not be one, and the fact that one of the original crew is still alive is a stroke of luck. Someone that can verify the journal's claims and help them to in their trek northward. Though at the old age of nearly one hundred. He just wonders how much longer this old man will last despite his apparent good health.

Still, it was enough to satisfy him and with a hope that this would not be chasing a mere myth.

Mykolas would have asked if there were a chance of other foreign agents or a third party getting involved and causing problems for them. Morgana had already asked that question, but he felt the need to add to that and spoke with a Virninkaian accent. "Like what she said, if we encounter a party from a government or a third party of some kind that seeks to either stop us if they discover what we are doing? Regardless if Kona is willing to help with this."

Then as he was about to wait for the prince's answer, he remembered that he had not introduced himself yet. So to get that out of the way, he spoke up once again. "Also, I am Mykolas Nolius, knight of the Order of the Iron Wolf, and it is an honor to meet you, Prince Vidhura." He then did a small bow of respect and waited to see what the prince or anyone else would say.

[The Second Order of Life]

"Ah, my apologies", he said to Juliste and to Karl. "How may I address you, Madame? Sir?"...

"Lieutenant Karl Björn, your Highness. I serve the House of Topuria, within the army of their kingdom, Ochortura." He said, ending in a polite smile and slight nod. His generally amicable demeanour, however, was briefly interrupted by a tint of worry, as if a stiff, cold wind had suddenly hit him following the words he uttered. He took the Shako he wore off his head and set aside on the table, before adding "I am currently on leave, and... I don't intend on returning soon. A few events changed my relationship with the army, I do not owe them much loyalty." He had not previously considered that his association with another nation could've called into question his loyalty to Vidhura's cause. If any doubts did arise, however, he could always say what exactly motivated him to seek adventure - but it was not time for that yet.

For the rest of the exchange, Karl remained quiet - perhaps uncharacteristically so. He noted some of the questions made to Vidhura with attention, giving only brief looks and nods as reactions, and acknowledge their responses. Slowly, the lieutenant became satisfied with the Prince's organisation, at least he seemed to know what would be needed to carry out the expedition. He took notice of Morgana's mention of "the Hinterland". He had no idea what it meant - the practice of magick was not at all an interest of his - but he did attach importance to the fact that part of the success of this mission would rely on crossing that barrier, somehow. Frumbarius' later observation, ensuring the veracity of the presented documents as Captain Janakas, momentarily caught his attention, and his astonished reaction to them caught him off-guard, meriting a response. "Given your... reaction, mister Frumbarius" he began, recalling how Morgana had referred to him before, "I suppose you see something that verifies it is true. I have no reason to doubt that - I am not well-versed in such history."

[Nagakawa]

Ava
Lama Pema Memorial Library

2365-05-01
Afternoon

"I will pay you out of the promised 500 million ingots at various junctures through the journey", Vidhura answered Adrax with a smile. "Rest assured, money is not an issue for me, and I will see to it that you are all compensated fairly for your efforts... even if you do not follow us to the very end."

Adrax nodded. "When are we leaving?"

"I have made arrangements for us to leave Ava on the morning of the day after tomorrow", Vidhura answered Adrax. "Channa has procured an airship for us. We will fly over Lake Dien, and arrive at Karkiemi in the evening of the day after. Therefore, you will have a day and a half to prepare yourselves, which I should hope is ample time for you all."

"Rest assured, lieutenant Björn" Frumbarius said in a low, grave voice, much different from his delivery of light-hearted comments before. "Its veracity is not in question" he said. He slumped back in a chair, which luckily bore his weight, though the professor could not have cared for the world if it had. A source of previously-unknown magick. Lore from Krakoyea that had been previously unknown to him. And, judging from her genuine reaction, which had been unknown to Morgana Windwalker. While her knowledge would have been helpful, Frumbarius was happy to learn that she had not been holding out on him when he visited her island, her being blindsided by this knowledge as well as he was. The prospect, however, of traveling to the far north and unearthing this trove of knowledge... Frumbarius felt a tear roll down his cheek, and quickly pushed the tome away to protect it from any damage an errant tear could do to it.

"Where... where did you find this?" Frumbarius managed to get out, his monocle still clinging to the folds around his eyes.

Vidhura cleared his throat and turned to Frumbarius.

"After Captain Janaka died, his home in Vajrapura was raided by the imperial secret police", he explained. "The Special Inquisitor at the time, Lady Ranjana, seized the journal from his personal belongings. On my part, I have been able to get hold of the journal only after extensive negotiation with Special Inquisitor Khandahala. And...

Again, Vidhura cleared his throat. He peered at the door and surreptitiously adjusted the collar of his tunic with a shaky finger.

"I must seek your understanding that I cannot reveal my precise sources to you", he added apologetically, glancing down at his feet momentarily before looking back at the Odobaran scholar. "Not out of fear of my own safety, but for the persons through whose assistance I was able to acquire this volume. But, in addition to your expert inspection of the journal... I believe it's safe to conclude that the reluctance with which the Special Inquisitor allowed me to have this journal is further indication of authenticity. These things are, after all, nigh impossible to forge."

Mykolas would have asked if there were a chance of other foreign agents or a third party getting involved and causing problems for them. Morgana had already asked that question, but he felt the need to add to that and spoke with a Virninkaian accent. "Like what she said, if we encounter a party from a government or a third party of some kind that seeks to either stop us if they discover what we are doing? Regardless if Kona is willing to help with this."

"I am reasonably certain that Dr Koba will be willing to assist us in this matter", Vidhura answered Mykolas with a reassuring nod. "Admittedly, my correspondence with him has been sparse, but he has agreed to meet me in person... which I believe is a sign of his approval on the matter.

"Should he refuse to provide us assistance, I believe we will nevertheless have enough other options, based on what I have learned from Captain Janaka's journal, that we will be able to replicate his journey-"

At that moment, there was a knock on the door, which caught Vidhura's attention and drew him out of the almost trance-like state he had entered throughout the course of his answering the group's questions.

"I told Merab to inform us if anyone else was coming in", Channa interjected urgently. "Nobody was supposed to come directly into this room without me first hearing about it..."

"That must be Merab, then."

"Merab would've just come in directly."

"If someone else wants to join us", Vidhura answered, "I would be open to hearing what they have to offer."

Again, the interloper knocked on the door, but this time, they did not wait for permission to enter. The door slid open a crack, and a young man quietly and calmly stepped into the room, dressed in a maroon tunic and armed with a curved sword, with his long black hair tied up behind his head. Channa moved to stop him from entering, but the young man simply pushed past her and offered a quick hand gesture of token apology.

"Good afternoon", Vidhura greeted the young man.

The young man slowly walked up to him and, stopping just a few paces away from him, offered the Agnian prince a nod of acknowledgement. There was an air about him, an aura that preceded each step of his and that continued to burn in his wake. His gaze, delivered forcefully through his alert chestnut eyes, was almost too uncomfortable to catch directly.

And yet, Prince Vidhura thought to himself, there was a certain sadness to them. An unimaginable grief that lingered beneath the monastically disciplined exterior. One that he found strangely familiar.

"I am Temi", the young man introduced himself to Vidhura. His manner of speech was respectful, but Temi did not smile at all. "Prince of Suvarnabhumi."

"Greetings, Prince", Vidhura returned the greeting. "Have you also come to join us?"

"No", Temi replied. "I've come to tell you to turn back."

...

[Pragia]

Sohan would stand towards the back of the secluded room of the library as he listened and observed. While he had not heard of the proof that the Prince had mustered before now, it had made little difference to the Harjiti Warrior-Judge. He was committed to this quest as an act of faith, and it only warmed his spirit for the material world to catch up to his conviction. Captain Janaka’s journeys were also legend, but to hear that the Special Inquisitor had suppressed one of them was a curious if distasteful thing. Why the Inquisitor at the time would have suppressed this truth was ruinous, and went a long way to explain why this was not supported in Agni circles.

There was a series of practical concerns, which Sohan paid only some attention to. Of course the prince had retainers and resources to acquire what would be needed for their journey. He could offer them all untold wealth, why could he not use such resources for other things? This would be a test of will, not of wealth, and he would be watching from his high perspective as the conversations continued. He was used to guarding, perhaps too used to it as he heard the knock at the door.

The Titan watched the door as it was opened, his eyes glaring through the crack with a silent intensity as the prince of the far north entered the room. He could crush his skull in one hand if he were truly a threat, but someone of his station never bore anything sharper than their tongue. He was more concerned that Merab had not yet followed him into the room, which indicated something more sinister afoot. Cordiality would reign, for now, but the northern prince’s poisoned words were not ones he wished to hear for long.

[Tesserach]

Chanakyarishi
Ava
Lama Pema Memorial Library

2365-05-01
Afternoon

Again, the interloper knocked on the door, but this time, they did not wait for permission to enter. The door slid open a crack, and a young man quietly and calmly stepped into the room, dressed in a maroon tunic and armed with a curved sword, with his long black hair tied up behind his head. Channa moved to stop him from entering, but the young man simply pushed past her and offered a quick hand gesture of token apology.

"Good afternoon", Vidhura greeted the young man.

The young man slowly walked up to him and, stopping just a few paces away from him, offered the Agnian prince a nod of acknowledgement. There was an air about him, an aura that preceded each step of his and that continued to burn in his wake. His gaze, delivered forcefully through his alert chestnut eyes, was almost too uncomfortable to catch directly.

And yet, Prince Vidhura thought to himself, there was a certain sadness to them. An unimaginable grief that lingered beneath the monastically disciplined exterior. One that he found strangely familiar.

"I am Temi", the young man introduced himself to Vidhura. His manner of speech was respectful, but Temi did not smile at all. "Prince of Suvarnabhumi."

"Greetings, Prince", Vidhura returned the greeting. "Have you also come to join us?"

"No", Temi replied. "I've come to tell you to turn back."

...

Warily peeking out, almost from behind Prince Vidhura's shoulder the Rishi, Chanakya, kept a book and various papers folded under his arms. He stepped a little to Vidhura's side, enough to offer a deep, and deferential bow to the other prince. "Prince Temi, of Suvarnabhumi. You grace us with your presence." The hushed words that followed were clearly intended for Prince Vidhura's ears, though in his haste to ensure they were delivered it was possible others, Prince Temi included, could overhear both the words and the slight sense of desperation - fear even - in Chanakyarishi's tone. "Prince Temi is said, by some, to rival even The Three Jewels of Suvarnabhumi."

The Three Jewels of Suvarnabhumi were well known - the three greatest warriors of that Kingdom. At least, as recognized by the royal family itself.

Certain, less discrete, tongues suggested the absence of Prince Temi's name - at the very top of the list - was an intentional error of omission.

Chanakyarishi trying to contain his discomfort in the moment, shared a brief sidelong glance with Channa.

[Naval Monte]

Morgana Windwalker XIII
Ava
Lama Pema Memorial Library

Morgana's eyes narrowed when she heard that the journal was suppressed by the Agni Inquisitors and their agents. If there was one thing she learned from navigating around the politics of the great families back home was the fact those in power do not tolerate anything they perceive as a threat to their power. Some more willing to cross certain lines if it means keeping their power and influence. The fact the shadowy enforcers of the empire choose to confiscate the book and suppress any information about the expedition confirms her worst fears that this journey may attract competing forces who will go against them to maintain a status quo that at the moment they benefit from.

The actions of the inquisitors did as what the Prince said. It washed away any lingering doubts she had on the journal's authenticity. But it did little to answer her question on how the captain found the fable land in the first place?

The Prince would also vouch for Koba's cooperation but the Grymkona would rather see if he will be helpful once they meet him face to face.

Morgana's train of thought would be interrupted once she heard the door knocking. She looked over and was puzzled by who it was. But once the door began to open her eyes widen once she saw who it was.

It was the Prince of Suvarnabhumi.

She didn't know the prince personally but she met him a few times whenever members of the Suvarnabhumi royal court visited Krakoyea.

She also heard of his skills with the blade and knew that he was one of the more powerful members. Her eyes flashed to Jian Jin. She was concern on where this meeting was gonna turn.

"No", Temi replied. "I've come to tell you to turn back."

With those words the sense of foreboding she was feeling was proven accurate. The summoner would take a deep breath and tried to steel her nerves, regain control of her breathing and the circulation of her blood to ease her body. She will need her body to be loose as it being tense from nerves will compromise her flexibility should conflict break out.

She approached the prince calmly.

"Prince Temi." she gave him a bow to show respect. "It's an honour to be in your prince." she knew it was better to make a good first impression before she can say the next lines she had in her mind. "I understand that certain members in your court may believe that what Prince Vidhura is proposing is a journey built on a false promise but I assure you that his journey is has solid evidence suggesting the destination is real. More importantly, that what lies at the end may be the answer to the pressing issue plaguing this world." The Grymkona kept her neutral expression even if a small part of her felt as though she should prepare herself to draw her blade and revolver.

"We could use a man of your talent and prestige to aid us in finding the Eternal Sun. To help save both our homes."

[Menschenfleisch]

Patrycja Juliste Swierczewski | 1st Day of the 5th Month, 2365

Juliste could not help but raise an eyebrow at the mention of Karkiemi. It wasn't to the North of Agni. Or at least, it wasn't the most direct route to reach the uppermost precipice of the continent. For any sort of expedition of discovery, Karkiemi was one of the best places to seek funding and support. The nobility and capitalists of the nation were locked in a war for control of the country's culture, meaning that they were willing to spend copious amounts of money on anything that might paint them in a good light. Their investments ranged from scientific undertakings to gallery ornaments, but seemed to rather consistently not include public spending and better working conditions for their workers. Surprisingly, the rich were the most likely people to criticise each other for not paying their workers more and protecting their communities against the smog that glowed like a shower of embers at dusk. Pointing the finger was an easy way of diverting attention away from one's own abuses. Even for someone whose head was chronically in the clouds, like Juliste, it was impossible to escape the discourse.

The thing she could not fathom was why the prince had assets in Karkiemi, when funding didn't seem to be an issue for him at all. There was very little room for foreign influences to drive their fingers into the city's seedbed of talent; university graduates and fledgling artists were snatched up by sponsors right after graduation, and working for more than one sponsor at a time was an egregious affront. Perhaps he had connections of another kind. Maybe he didn't have a plan at all. Well if nothing else, at least she'd have an opportunity to take a look at the city once more. She hadn't been back in over a decade. Maybe her old employer was still kicking around, watering the roses and having tea with the servants. He'd been such an introspective and airy young man; she could only imagine that middle age had exaggerated his sentimentality.

An interloper strode into the room. At least he was polite enough to knock. Juliste looked at his shoes, covered in a fine shag. The tips were latticed by tiny pale scores. He'd obviously walked a long way to get here. The absence of any retainers and bodyguards spoke to his confidence... or perhaps a desperate need for discretion. He seemed to have a passing familiarity with Vidhura, but he clearly wasn't his friend. They addressed each other by titles, and there was a stillness in their postures that betrayed a palpable tension.

Juliste swivelled around in her chair and relaxed. She adopted a smugness and an ease of expression which must've reeked of condescension. It was a deliberate choice, to produce a discrepancy between how she spoke to the prince and how anonymous and unimportant she looked. "If you're concerned about your nation losing prestige because of an alternative to Auros being found, you shouldn't worry. Yours is the greatest and most Northern navy in the world, second only to Krakoyea, whose ruling body is yet unaware of Captain Janaka's voyage. If the Star were to be found, you would be in the greatest position out of anyone to capitalise. Consider the size of your nation's martial forces, the influence that you could attain by holding the only source of the most valuable resource in the world hostage. You must have your own ambitions, prince. Imagine the good that you could do for your family and the influence you could wield if you were to lay claim to the object whose existence we are merely meant to verify? This team is too small to transport it across the seas, and Prince Vidhura's desire to seek it out is not motivated by a desire to empower his own nation, but a general consideration for the future of mankind. I'm sure that he would be more than willing to report his findings to you following the completion of our journey."

[The Second Order of Life]

Though the lieutenant could feel tension in the room rise as the young and uninvited man stepped into the room, he knew not what to make of him. His demeanour was calm, but his resolve seemed unchangeable, as he did not heed by Channa's mild resistance. He observed the exchange between the Princes, which Vidhura seemed more eager in having than the new-arrival, and in it he revealed his name: "Temi". The name awoke several old memories of his, tales he heard during his upbringing - Prince Temi was a notable part of the Kingdom's royal family, with even more recognition, he would've guessed, than Vidhura, who stood quite late in the succession line of Agni. Tales told of a capable fighter, one that rivalled the greatest of the land, and he never saw any reason to doubt them. Although he was not too keen on the legend built around the warrior Prince, it was still quite surprising to see him up close, and the nature of his coming to Ava seemed a complete mystery her.

That mystery, however, would not last. As Temi announced his intention, Karl could feel that a certain aura of impending doom beginning to haunt all of those who were in the room. Chanakyarishi's reception, followed by hurried whispers to Vidhura, told him most of what he need to known - this was not within their plans. It would seem that this expedition's resolve would be tested before it even began. He remained quiet, waiting, judging the expressions and responses of his would-be colleagues. Throughout Morgana's appeasing offer, followed by Juliste's slyness, indicated that, at the very least, the members of this team had a quick wit, a trait to be greatly appreciated. He remained quiet, judging their statements, appreciating the reaction of their interlocutor.

Even then, as Juliste brought her assertions to an end, confidence was not exactly Karl was feeling; Temi seemed far too determined to let these attempts prevent him - it seemed unlikely to him that he could be convinced with dialogue. Slowly yet noticeably, he turned his head towards the Prince of his homeland, awaiting his response. He tried his best to conceal any hints of worry or hesitance from his outward body language, yet it would prove much too difficult. The slightly-too-keen stare betrayed curiosity and apprehension, and the sudden cessation of his usual relaxed mannerisms indicated the same. He was tense, and for good reason.

[Nagakawa]

Ava
Lama Pema Memorial Library

2365-05-01
Afternoon

"If you're concerned about your nation losing prestige because of an alternative to Auros being found, you shouldn't worry. Yours is the greatest and most Northern navy in the world, second only to Krakoyea, whose ruling body is yet unaware of Captain Janaka's voyage. If the Star were to be found, you would be in the greatest position out of anyone to capitalise. Consider the size of your nation's martial forces, the influence that you could attain by holding the only source of the most valuable resource in the world hostage. You must have your own ambitions, prince. Imagine the good that you could do for your family and the influence you could wield if you were to lay claim to the object whose existence we are merely meant to verify? This team is too small to transport it across the seas, and Prince Vidhura's desire to seek it out is not motivated by a desire to empower his own nation, but a general consideration for the future of mankind. I'm sure that he would be more than willing to report his findings to you following the completion of our journey."

"Prince Temi." she gave him a bow to show respect. "It's an honour to be in your prince." she knew it was better to make a good first impression before she can say the next lines she had in her mind. "I understand that certain members in your court may believe that what Prince Vidhura is proposing is a journey built on a false promise but I assure you that his journey is has solid evidence suggesting the destination is real. More importantly, that what lies at the end may be the answer to the pressing issue plaguing this world." The Grymkona kept her neutral expression even if a small part of her felt as though she should prepare herself to draw her blade and revolver.

"We could use a man of your talent and prestige to aid us in finding the Eternal Sun. To help save both our homes."

“No.”

Temi’s curt reply to the words offered caught even Vidhura off guard. Up until then, while the others seated around the table had tried to change his mind, Temi had remained silent - receptive, almost - and the polite manner in which he carried himself had almost lulled Vidhura into a sense of security. The sudden darkening of his demeanour was a flash of lightning across a clear sky. With his back still turned to the assembly in the room, Temi rested his left hand below the crossguard of the sabre by his waist. The way he held it indicated not a readiness to draw - but a mere reminder that it was there.

“I apologise for the intrusion”, he said to the assembly in the room, while still facing Vidhura. “But I must ask you all to exit the room. I wish to speak to Prince Vidhura in private.”

Morgana kept her blank expression as she pushed back her cape and had her hand hover close to her revolver.

“It’s unfortunate that you wish to oppose us, Prince Temi.” she replied back. Much like how the prince wanted to remind everyone he was still armed, the summoner chose to do the same with her revolver, intentionally revealing her sabre as well, and the belt that held three metal tubes that had runic symbols etched on to the shell casing. And yet, for all the power the runes boasted, it was Temi’s nameless, unadorned sword that commanded the larger presence by far.

She glanced at Vidhura, as did several others in the room - much, it seemed, to Vidhura’s perturbation. As if to save his liege from being put on the spot, Chanakyarishi stepped out from Prince Vidhura’s shadow, his stylus and a thick book folded neatly under his arm.

“With respect to Your Highness”, he wheedled to Prince Temi, “Prince Vidhura is well within his rights to employ contractors, and household staff as he sees fit, without need for approval.” Shuffling forward, he began hastily flipping through his notebook. “External inquisitorial prerogatives”, he rattled off, “are clearly circumscribed in Article IV of the Meghar Protocols pertaining to Ava. Paragraph 4. Subsection 27 clearly states…”

Chanakyarishi, swallowing hard as Prince Temi’s sharp eyes bore into him, frantically flipped through his notes.

“T-that…” He cleared his throat finding what he was looking for and now speaking more officiously, though his hand holding the sheet was still shaking. “’Whereas the autonomous City of Ava is solely responsible for the administration off all relevant laws and justice matters. It may, during cases of emergency, see fit to submit a formal request for assistance from external powers. Subsection 6 paragraph 1a states: ‘The government of Ava shall provide officers engaged in special security duties with an official seal, along with a writ, outlining their specific duties, responsibilities and powers – and any limitations thereof. Section b) states: Such officers must carry the Writ of Authorization on their person at all times while operating as a peace officer within the City of Ava.

“With all that being said…” Chanakyarishi concluded, “I cannot help but note Your Highness, you have no such Writ.”

In the brief moment of silence that followed, it seemed as if the walls would recede from around them, and the sky itself would crumble to dust. Prince Temi’s attention swung away from Vidhura to Chanakyarishi, and he slowly walked towards the old tutor with a smirk of disbelief.

“Let me see that”, he demanded, clearly somewhat nonplussed by the scribe’s response.

“Your Highness.” Chanakyarishi replied bowing formally and handing the loose sheet of paper over to Prince Temi. “You will find it exactly as I have said.”

“You’re a clever scholar Chanakyarishi”, Temi replied, glancing at the writ briefly before tapping his finger somewhere near the bottom of the page. “However, I believe there is one obscure – but critical - matter of jurisprudence that you appear to have overlooked.”

Chanakyarishi shuffled uncomfortably, his eyes darting to where Prince Temi’s finger touched the page. “I have never erred in a matter of law, Your Highness.” Seeming to think better of it, he added: “But I would welcome your counsel.”

“I believe you will find the oversight glaring, once I point it out to you.” Prince Temi said, holding up the statutes for Chanakya’s inspection.

“By all means, Your Highness, show me my error.” Chanakya bowed, as a semblance of confidence began creeping into his tone.

Prince Temi, his expression as neutral as ever, then proceeded to rip the copy of statutes into shreds.

“The oversight is: No one cares.”

Prince Temi handed Chanakyarishi back the tattered shreds who, still in shock, politely accepted as the shreds of paper were poured back into his hands in the manner of a predator toying with its food.

“Do you imagine the Council of Ava would dare press this matter? No. This is a private matter involving Prince Vidhura and myself.” He then turned his attention away from Chanakyarishi to everyone else in the room. “With this in mind, both Prince Vidhura, and myself, must, respectfully, insist upon having the hall to ourselves while we deal with urgent business. We both thank you for your time, and apologise if any among you feel your time here has been wasted. Is that not so Prince Vidhura?”

“I…” The Agnian prince took a deep breath. “I’m sorry, everyone. Please give us a moment.”

Channa, having heard Vidhura’s order, surreptitiously picked up Captain Janaka’s journal. Prince Temi had noticed; and Channa realised, given the slight tightening of his hand around the hilt of his sword, that he knew she was aware of his noticing.

“The Princes will speak in private now”, she said to the group firmly. “Please exit the room.”

With her hands still resting on the table near Captain Janaka’s journal, Channa kept her eyes fixed on Temi as he paced tensely towards Vidhura, all while she had begun ushering the party out. Temi, it seemed, was not waiting for everyone to leave before continuing his conversation with Vidhura.

“Suvarnabhumi - my country - was a desolate and barren land.” Vidhura stood up straight and looked Temi in the eye as the prince from the far north spoke. “Before the Krakoyean auros reserve was found, our people were sucking the grime off of bones to survive.

“Now that we have become prosperous, do you intend to take it all away from us again, Lord Vidhura? To enrich your Empire, at the expense of our people?”

“I swear on my honour, that is not the purpose of my quest.” Vidhura’s reply was firm, but in the elevated volume of his voice, Channa could smell the slightest of concessions. “Surely you must know by now, Lord Temi, that auros is a finite resource… that we will one day run out of it? Already, we see the effects of its depletion, on our people, our nations…”

“And is that all you have to say for it?” Temi scoffed. “May I remind you that it was Agni that invaded Suvarnabhumi and laid waste to it? Our temples, our literature - it was all destroyed by Agni. Before the Krakoyean reserve was found, we were desolate. We wereruined, we were desolate, because of what your Empire did.”

Vidhura remained silent.

“Because of what Emperor Julani XII did”, Temi added. “Your ancestor, Lord Vidhura. You think your empty assurances can sway me?”

Vidhura shook his head sorrowfully.

“Must I be held responsible for the sins of my father, Lord Temi? These wars… these senseless, senseless wars. They sadden me as much as they do you. But mark my words, Lord Temi, the wars will never end. They will intensify further still as the supply of auros dwindles-”

“And then you will invade us again? To take what we have?”

“I-”

“Your talk is empty, Lord Vidhura”, Temi cut him off. His outward manner was still cool and calm, but the force with which he spat out each word made clear the bitterness inside. “Agni will never change. I know the Eternal Star exists, just as well as you do. And by the gods, as long as I live, you will not lay a finger on it.”

Most eyes were on the two princes at the centre of the room, or the two attendants now trying to corral a large group of confused and slightly irritable guests towards the doors. Neither the princes, nor Channa nor Chanakya noticed Jian Jin walking directly towards Prince Temi until it was too late.

“Now hold on.” Jin said, as Temi craned his head up and laid his eyes upon him. “I have a further legal objection.”

“Is that so?” Prince Temi probed calmly.

“Of course”, Jian Jin replied. “Seems to me this hall was reserved for a private function, involving people interested in joining a particular project. And since you’re not here to sign on - well I guess you’re not invited. Which means, I’m gonna have to ask you to leave… Your Highness.”

A vein over Prince Temi’s eye began to twitch. “Prince Vidhura, if you value this man’s life…” He released his grip on his sword. “I would suggest you-”

“Don’t go looking to him. He can’t help you right now.” Jian Jin stepped abruptly between the two princes, approaching Prince Temi very closely. In the midst of the sudden interruption, Channa had left the door open, and the rest of the group quickly became unintentionally privy to the confrontation taking place at the other end of the room. “I’m right here.”

"I can see that", Temi replied. "Are you going to move?"

That instant, Jian changed his stance, leaping up into the air and crossing his arms. He took a deep breath, sucking the air in until a screeching whistle rattled the walls of the room around him, and the incandescent lights that lit the room were hushed by his aura.

"Heavenly Whirling Phoenix Technique", he recited ominously, as he stretched out one hand and pointed two fingers at Temi, around which a pulsating aura of deadly qi began to emanate. "Form VII... The God Sakra Hurls the Vajra Into Orbit Around Mount Sumeru..."

Temi, in response, lowered his stance ever so slightly, each of his movements subtle and graceful in contrast to Jian Jin's magnificent forcefulness. His left hand hovered over the hilt of his sword.

"With this technique", Jian prattled confidently, "I will split your energy in half, and you will be paralysed from the waist down for thirty days. The Heavenly Whirling Phoenix Technique is the most highly perfected of the Jianghu Forms... and you would do well to know -"

Midway through his explanation of his attack, Jian felt a sudden thud against the side of his body. The next thing he knew, Prince Temi was standing behind him, his sword drawn a mere inch from its scabbard. A sudden excruciating pain exploded from the side of his torso, where his liver was, and the deadly martial aura he had amassed in his fingertips dissipated as quickly as it had collected. With a cry of agony, Jian Jin fell to his knees, clutching his wounded side, where his tunic had been torn slightly open with the cleanest of breaks, and a bruise shaped like the pommel of Temi's sword quickly began to form.

Temi's counterattack was simple. He had drawn his sword slightly and slammed the pommel into Jian's liver. But as Jian, the strongest warrior of the Jianghu, lay in a crumpled heap at the feet of the northern prince, drooling and murmuring incoherently, the others noted with a deep sense of dread that they had not even been able to see Temi's one simple movement, so quick and so agile he had been.

"Jian!" Throwing aside all concern for himself and for Temi, Vidhura quickly rushed to Jian, crouching beside him and turning him over urgently to inspect the wound. He looked up at Temi with a bewildered scowl. "Temi!! What did you do!?"

"I say to you all." Temi sheathed his sword with a single swift click and slowly began to walk towards the exit of the room. "Go home. I won't trouble you all now... but I cannot guarantee that I will hold back in the future, if you insist on being too stubborn for your ow good."

Before anyone else could get a word in, Temi was gone. The lights in the room suddenly seemed ever so slightly darker, the air devoid of familiarity.

...

[Pragia]

Sohan would watch, his face contorting into visible disdain as the prince flaunts the laws of this city. Temi was a sterling fighter, and Sohan was not sure if he had much of a chance of stopping him if he chose violence. His curt tongue would have been carved out for his insolence in the face of law, the prince, the nation, and his faith were he an adherent. The northerner's anger and resentment could be understood, but it could not be approved.

He made no move to exit, allowing others to leave as they wished, but he would not be corraled by his fellow guard Channa, who was smart to take the map into her arms. He would not leave at his prince's command until everyone else had, but the others would not. The disgraced warrior Jian Jin would approach, and Sohan cringed to himself as he began to tell off the northerner. His display of power was impressive, but Sohan would not risk the spilling of blood here to back the exile.

When Temi struck the warrior down, Sohan's blade would be drawn, its heft like a small blade in his powerful arms. As the villain absconded, Sohan would approach his prince "We should not have let him leave, my Prince. He does not believe in peace, and will do as he says to stop us." He would begin applying a salve to Jian's bruising side from a sack at his side, his sword being placed on the ground next to Jian Jin. A silent admiration in his eyes and hands for the fire of the Jianghu as he tries to treat him.

[Naval Monte]

Morgana expression did not change even after she had witness the strongest fighter from Jianghu fell effortlessly to the prince. What unnerved the Grymkona greatly was the fact she did not see his movement at all. The grace and speed of his movement for that attack, and the aftermath it left in it's wake, was inhumane. She couldn't believe that was merely martial at play. Her right hand was trembling; the same hand that threaten to pull out a revolver earlier to challenge the prince. She wondered briefly if she would have been laying on the floor like Jin if she went through with her planned action?

Morgana shook her head and tried to put the thought away so not to show any signs of fear to the others "The prince may have otherworldly or mystical assistance for that attack to be as effective as it is." she told the others. "What sort of magic that was I can't say. My people and his may have a long history with each other but that doesn't mean we know everything about each other and magic is something both of us lack considerable information about."

Internally she can understand the resentment the prince felt and his desire to keep his home in a prosperous state. Krakoyea was like Suvarnabhumi before the Auros reserves was discovered. A barren and desolate land. Where communities united or fought against each other to starve off the cold and death. Where to fight off the monsters and spirits that haunt the island some made contracts and deals with them. Leading to women such as herself. If she was in the prince's shoes and didn't come to her own conclusion as to the future of Krakoyea she may have agreed with him on opposing Vidhua's journey.

Morgana look down at Jian Jin and let out a sigh. She walked over to him and search through her pouch for a particular vial she had. Once she found it she would produce a vial that contained a black vein like roots. She would crouch down to his level to show the roots. "Deadroots have some properties to ease the sensation of pain if you can get past it's bitter taste." she explained to him. "You have the option of grinding it into a powder to be consume or consume the roots as is. But the latter I will not advice as the bitterness of the plant is much stronger doing so."

[Theyra]

Mykolas Nolius
Library

Unbelievable, that was the thought that echoed in Mykolas as he finished watching the fight between Jian and the Suvarnabhumian prince. Never has he seen someone fight as fast as the prince. What he did to Jian seemed inhuman, and yet he somewhat can do that to someone with that speed and grace. Still, it did not stop Mykolas from putting his hand on the hilt of his sword and drawing it in a defensive stance. True, he may not know if he could defeat the prince but, a knight of the Iron Wolf is never afraid of an enemy. But, instead of a fight, the Suvarnabhumian prince simply left without a trace. Leaving the wounded Jian on the ground while some of the others went to aid Jian.

Mykolas with a battle harden face that slowly went away. He slowly put his sword away as he took stock of what happened. So they have their first foe, and with what the Temi said. Thinking that Vidhura's quest, despite being noble, would only ruin the prosperity of his kingdom and return it to its old state. That and Temi simply did not trust Vidhura because of old grudges. While Mykolas could understand Temi's reasons for opposing Vidhura's quest. But knowing that Auros will run out and he could only imagine what would happen when that happens and the wars over reducing Auros reserves. It will benefit no one and bring ruin to all, regardless of nation. This Mykolas feels to be true.

So Mykolas went over to the downed Jian and pulled out a small pouch. Despite what most people would think, all knights of the Iron Wolf are trained in medicine. Mainly having basic first-aid skills and knowledge. So they can treat each other in the field if needed before going to a doctor or surgeon. Thus, he kneeled down to Jian and produced a syringe with a clear liquid in it. "This should help with the pain." Before looking up at Vidhur, but spoke with a serious tone. "So, are you still willing to do this quest of yours?"

[Tesserach]

Jian Jin
Ava
Lama Pema Memorial Library

2365-05-01
Afternoon

Morgana look down at Jian Jin and let out a sigh. She walked over to him and search through her pouch for a particular vial she had. Once she found it she would produce a vial that contained a black vein like roots. She would crouch down to his level to show the roots. "Deadroots have some properties to ease the sensation of pain if you can get past it's bitter taste." she explained to him. "You have the option of grinding it into a powder to be consume or consume the roots as is. But the latter I will not advice as the bitterness of the plant is much stronger doing so."

When Temi struck the warrior down, Sohan's blade would be drawn, its heft like a small blade in his powerful arms. As the villain absconded, Sohan would approach his prince "We should not have let him leave, my Prince. He does not believe in peace, and will do as he says to stop us." He would begin applying a salve to Jian's bruising side from a sack at his side, his sword being placed on the ground next to Jian Jin. A silent admiration in his eyes and hands for the fire of the Jianghu as he tries to treat him.

Jian Jin writhed a few moments on the floor, cold sweat beaded on his face before the clenched muscles in seemed to relax, and his breathing slowed. "I-I'm fine... it'll pass." He growled between gritted teeth, waiving off the assistance. He knew the strike well-enough, had felt it many times before. It felt like being gut punched and kicked in the balls all at the same time, and then your body just... shut down, slowly giving way to nausea, cold sweats, and lingering cramps.

Nothing serious, just no one had ever been skilled to deliver in practice before.

That was Heavenly Lotus' Shadow Step Technique. That's supposed to be a lost technique, how had a snot-nosed princeling learned one of the lost gems of Jianghu!?

Jian Jin groaned again, feeling his stomach clenching up again. Fighting back the wave of nausea, he propped himself up on one hand before lifting himself, unsteadily, to standing position. "Where'd he go?" Searching the library, he didn't see signs of Temi anywhere. His wild eyes briefly rested upon the giant warrior and the sorceress Morgana standing by his side suddenly. "Where'd he go?" He asked them. "I wasn't - we weren't - done!"

Goddamn this fucking day...

[Nagakawa]

"We should not have let him leave, my Prince. He does not believe in peace, and will do as he says to stop us." He would begin applying a salve to Jian's bruising side from a sack at his side, his sword being placed on the ground next to Jian Jin. A silent admiration in his eyes and hands for the fire of the Jianghu as he tries to treat him.

Thus, he kneeled down to Jian and produced a syringe with a clear liquid in it. "This should help with the pain." Before looking up at Vidhura, but spoke with a serious tone. "So, are you still willing to do this quest of yours?"

"I am not afraid of Prince Temi."

Vidhura's words in response to Ardarnas were firm and steadfast, but his hands, as he retracted them from Jian's body, were visibly uncertain. He clenched his fists by his lap as he cast a quick glance at the rest of the assembly; already, it seemed that some among them were starting to change their minds about embarking on the quest. With her hands still clasped securely over the book, Channa, too, inspected the group quietly. They had accepted that attrition was inevitable, but Prince Temi's display of overwhelming power was an unknown factor in the equation. How it would affect the newcomers remained to be seen.

"He is strong", Vidhura continued. "Incredibly strong. And I know he is a formidable foe. But we cannot allow him to stand in our way. And..." He glanced over at Sohal, offering him a weary sigh in response. "We cannot afford to sour our relations with Suvarnabhumi. Prince Temi may be set in his opposition to us... but the court of Suvarnabhumi as a whole may not be. We must keep our options open."

...