Completed Chapter VI: Eye of the Storm

[Wolf Rawrrr]

"There are really only three ways to enter the palace," Meric explained, leaning forward to point on the map that still lay on the table. "The most obvious is through the main gates. That gets you inside the main courtyard, from where there are three doors into the structure proper. The other two ways are upstairs. I don't have a map for the second floor, but the layout is almost identical. See the stairs on each side of the East Tower? They both lead up to a large terrace on the second floor that surrounds the tower, but is open to the sky. Right next to the upper end of each of those staircases is a short bridge that connects the palace to the outer wall. Refer to this city plan cut out, here." he said, showing Asher a small piece of paper that seemed to be part of a bigger city map.

"Those bridges are the other two ways to access the palace. Needless to say they're constantly guarded, with a double portcullis system installed on each end of a bridge. Getting into the palace district itself should be easy compared to getting into the palace. A man of your talents should be able to drop in through one of the towers that are on the far left or right of the King's Gate. From there, you could hug the wall across the courtyard, next to the equestrian complex or the gardens, depending on which tower you scaled, all the way to the palace. But to get into the palace itself, you will have to use one of the three entrances that I described. Unless you think you can scale a sheer wall forty feet straight up, without being seen. Then you could infiltrate almost anywhere via the rooftops."

A'kal cleared his throat. "I believe we have a single invitation left, however. Do we not?"

Meric frowned for a moment, thinking. "Hm. Actually, yes. We do. Two, in fact, since Battojutsu switched teams. Give me a moment, I'll write all that down." The elf reached for an empty paper and something to write with. A short minute later, that part of the plan was materialized alongside the maps sprawled on the table.

Spoiler: Meric's deployment plan

"There." the shadow elf proudly displayed his work.

"A whole lot of angry rebels?" Violet frowned. "You jest, Meric?"

"A bit." he admitted. "But that's why you like me, isn't it?"

It took Violet a second to register that he didn't use the word 'all'. That he wasn't talking to all of them, but to her. She blushed, averting her gaze from Meric's charming grin, and glancing furtively at Maggie with a little smile.

"So," he looked back to Asher. "It would appear that we have two slots left. However, while no one would directly challenge an officially invited guest's escort, some of the nobles will undoubtedly take interest in those of you who are unknown to the local elite. And that's... well, all of you to be honest. That is why I took care to assign invitations in a way that would make it easy for Auri and Erya to explain your presence. Maggie really is his life-long friend, as I understand, and a priestess, and he may present her as such. Little need for fabrication, if any. As for Laurolf, the two of them could have easily met on one of Auri's visits to the dwarven capital. Though I'd keep Laurolf's background as a Runemaster of Knalga a secret. After all, his family stood on the wrong side in the dwarven civil war."

Laurolf looked offended. "Wrong side, Meric? I be thinkin' ours was the rite side, ya know? The side that didn't turn traitor to our legacy and joined with that serpent whose nest we're about to wade into tomorrow."

Meric was duly apologetic. "Of course, Laurolf. Forgive my poor choice of words." He waited a few moments before turning to Auri. "So yes, Auri, Laurolf is one of the Runemasters of Knalga - or would have been, at least. Will be, once this war is over. But you two should be able to easily come up with some other explanation for him being your invitee. On Erya's side, to conclude, I am already known as part of the elven nobility, and A'kal can safely be our esteemed guest from the Varden Kingdom. Baron Durand and Vittorio may speak the whole truth regarding how they met, conveniently."

"Ah, but to get back on point. Asher." Meric looked at the thief. "I've elaborated this much to stress how important it is that there is a foolproof explanation for each of us on the inside. So if you were to use one of the remaining invitations, we'd need to make up a solid story for you. Unless you are keen on taking that stealth approach after all? What will it be?"

 

[Kaerri]

Maggie
Priestess of the Maker​

It took Violet a second to register that he didn't use the word 'all'. That he wasn't talking to all of them, but to her. She blushed, averting her gaze from Meric's charming grin, and glancing furtively at Maggie with a little smile.

Maggie hid a giggle behind her hand and winked at Violet. She knew those two couldn't be at odds for too long! It was always a particular joy to see a friendship heal, even from what might have been a tiny rift such as this. Not that "a whole lot of angry rebels" wasn't funny on its own merits.

"Ah, but to get back on point. Asher." Meric looked at the thief. "I've elaborated this much to stress how important it is that there is a foolproof explanation for each of us on the inside. So if you were to use one of the remaining invitations, we'd need to make up a solid story for you. Unless you are keen on taking that stealth approach after all? What will it be?"

She leaned forward to look over the maps and the list of guests. "Perhaps he could come as my, um, escort?" she asked a little doubtfully. It wasn't that she didn't have faith in their new ally's ability to play that role (although she really didn't know if he could or not). It was more that she'd never had any sort of romantic experience herself, and so wasn't sure what was expected in those circumstances.

 

[Purr]

Auri the Insatiable
Ambassador of the Drakkar Nation​

"...but I can't tell Erya what to do. Unless she's changed her mind, she is going to speak with Ilhirel in her official diplomatic capacity about that uncanny arrest. I don't think that's wise, but if you cannot dissuade her then it's safer to help her than stand on the sidelines. After all, the matter concerns you both. You will be there in an official capacity as well - it might look more suspicious that you're not taking interest than if you were."

"Actually," Violet chimed in, "I think it would be more suspicious if you avoided the Sorceress like the plague than if you engaged in conversation. Generally speaking."

"That's what I meant." Meric agreed, properly looking at Violet for the first time since their argument. "You don't have to chat her up, but don't make it look like you're intentionally avoiding her, either. As for the matter of the dwarf and drakkar, I am leaving that entirely to your, and Erya's, wisdom. For the Chosen, do keep Ilhirel in sight and let us know if she leaves the party grounds. By tomorrow I will get you a discreet way of doing that. Besides that one thing, we're not asking you to do anything outside your bounds as an invited guest and ambassador."

Meric had just started breathing more easily, confident that this issue at least was resolved...

Auri did not know quite how to react having been told what to do thusly in his own home by two of his guests. It was as if he was being given little to no choice in the matter. They had made one thing clear; they were the voice of the Resistance. Odder still, they honestly expected him to just kowtow to this strange and dangerous strategy without a further thought for his own neck? The Sorceress was not a power to be thus trifled with - this was the woman who had ruthlessly and demonically conquered Auri's entire nation and people! And far more besides!

So the old drakkar remained silent. He kept to himself and just remained aware of the conversation now that it had moved on well out of his reach.

Internally, he struggled with the question now brought down heavily like a drawbridge before him - did he really want to so blatantly risk his life confronting a creature as chaotic and all-powerful like The Sorceress with Meric's odd friend, Erya, under these circumstances? One did not challenge a dragoness inside her own door especially on a day when that dragon had made to brag and boast and spread the word of her own accomplishments to all invited. If Erya got herself punished or worse, that was on her, but it was all her decision, too. Besides, where was the benefit into sharing such a rickety stage when some hated doom lay just beneath?

In addition, this was Meric's good friend, and if Meric thought it was hopeless to talk Erya to the path wisdom, who could? Certainly not Auri. He had not known the sensitive and shadowy Erya for even a full day. He could not figure out how her mind worked, especially so soon.

And now Meric and Violet were pretty much demanding Auri stake his neck on her...

If The Sorceress required anything of Auri, he would simply comply with her wishes, at least on the surface where he would seem obedient. If she did not see through his subterfuge, then he could simply hope the others rescued Dina while he stayed upstairs in the ball. To congratulate The Sorceress openly with the rest of the party-goers then fade into the crowd had been his plan from the start. To engage her further was dangerous folly, not only for him, but for Maggie, Dina, and the rest of the Resistance. He had to stay out of The Sorceress's way for she was too unpredictable and powerful a creature to do otherwise. What other choice did he have?

Auri quietly sipped his cup and watched the room.

(Edited second-to-last paragraph for clarity. =) )

 

[Jack Elarithon]

Asher

The Jaded Shadow​

Entering as a guest would be easier, but it would also make it very difficult to just vanish without anyone noticing, and Asher wouldn't be able to shadow meld in the crowd, at least not without anyone noticing.

She leaned forward to look over the maps and the list of guests. "Perhaps he could come as my, um, escort?" she asked a little doubtfully.

"I will have to refuse," Asher responded to the priestess' offer.

"Even though I had the pleasure of participating in many parties back in Kossar, it was always from within the shadows of the buildings. It's best that I stick to what I'm trained for, so I'll take the stealth route over the walls. If anything hinders me, I'll improvise using my tools and abilities."

Asher took a second, thinking about the possibility of climbing to the rooftops. With shadow melding, he could pull it off without being seen, and then he'd have access to the whole Palace. But if something interrupted his climb from within the shadow, at least one bone would be broken in the fall, and that's being generous.

"Depending on my target within the Palace, I would adjust my point of entry. Should I go to the West Tower?"

 

[Purr]

Auri the Insatiable
Ambassador of the Drakkar Nation​

"I will have to refuse," Asher responded to the priestess' offer.

Asher, though the newest member to their fellowship, seemed to know his limits and this Auri appreciated.

"Depending on my target within the Palace, I would adjust my point of entry. Should I go to the West Tower?"

The more Asher talked shop, the more Auri learned about the fellow. Auri considered that should the plan change mid-stride and any of them be called into such daring as to have to seek Dina alone, Auri realized that he hoped it would be Asher. The lad, if that was what he really was, was clearly the most experienced of them all in matters of infiltration and stealth. While the West Tower seemed like a fine place to start, Auri felt such details were left outside of his otherwise capable claws.

And so the old drakkar looked to Meric and Violet for answer to Asher's question.

 

[Wolf Rawrrr]

"Alright then. Stealth approach it is." Meric concluded, jotting down Asher's name on the paper. "And I agree with the west tower idea. It should be easy enough for you - provided that you can get up on the terrace in the first place. Most of the second floor of the keep is open to the sky, as I said earlier, so it provides quick access to both towers. Expect many, many guards; which you can probably evade using the Shadow Realm, though I wouldn't rely entirely on that if I were you. For one thing, there are surely anti-measures in place, and we've no idea where or what kind. And second, that palace has seen all kinds of trouble, especially the last few years. Maker only knows the things that prowl those Shadows now. But it's true that the rest of us would have a very difficult time getting up there, so I appreciate your willingness to do this."

"So what about the rest of us, hm?" Laurolf puffed.

"Once inside, Maggie and I could make our way towards the lavatories and... lose our way. We'd make a good team, I think. But we should take someone else, too. Like you, A'kal. Or Laurolf, perhaps. Thing is, we should try to incapacitate the guards on our way to the dungeons rather than evade them, because going out the same way will be more difficult with Dina. She might be in no condition to walk." He couldn't help but glance at Violet, but the she-elf showed no sign of her earlier outburst. She was holding it together.

"And if she is found by Asher in the tower?" A'kal inquired.

"If Asher finds her," Meric explained, "He will contact us immediately and lead her out of the tower. Ideally, we'll try to maintain the element of stealth as we procure Dina across the bridge and into Fort Artan, where by then Violet and her forces will secure a safe route for us to leave the city."

Violet nodded at that. "Still waiting on final confirmations from some of my agents, but it should be alright. If for some reason that plan goes south, you'll have to get out the same way you came in. Hopefully without blowing your cover."

"And if we find her in the dungeons, we'll alert Asher, and try the same thing - though from there it might be easier to just try the normal way out, provided that we are still undetected. We'll have to wait and see. But whatever happens, some of you have no known ties to the Chosen and should be able to simply leave the palace grounds at will. This is the way that Auri should go out, for example, unless he becomes compromised somehow. Perhaps you too, Vittorio." he glanced at the necromancer who'd kept very quiet so far.

"So? What are your thoughts so far?" Meric asked, mostly looking at Maggie and Asher. His face showed signs of worry, indicating that he was aware of the plan's imperfections and the danger involved.

 

[Kaerri]

Maggie
Priestess of the Maker​

Maggie seemed more relieved than not when Asher turned down her suggestion. She hadn't been that confident in it herself, and was glad he had something he was more comfortable doing instead. She nodded when Meric looked her way. "It sounds simple enough, put that way. Not easy, of course, but simple, and that's all to the good. The more complex the plan is, the more chances of something going wrong, right?" She tilted her head inquiringly. "I'm still wondering, though, how we're going to be able to contact each other when we're in separate parts of the Palace, without the Sorceress catching wind of it?"

 

[Wolf Rawrrr]

"There are certain types of... artifices," Meric said to Maggie, "Not quite the field of runecrafting, but something similar. A blend of sorcery and technology that's somewhat difficult to understand, or at least to manufacture - I must confess I do not understand it well myself. But these devices have been around for a while and they work, even if they are hard to acquire. Violet and I have secured a couple for tomorrow's purpose."

Violet nodded her reassurance, having nothing else to add.

"It is as good a plan as could reasonably be put together on such a short notice and under such conditions," A'kal remarked. "My only question is what about Xenthriss? He knows you, Meric, as well as Violet and me. And Laurolf. We should assume that he's passed on everything he knew about us to the Sorceress."

Laurolf turned to Meric with a worried stare, but the elf waved him off. "I've thought of that, of course. Violet's informants report that Xenthriss was seen leaving the palace, for what that's worth. Given his character and appearance, I somehow doubt that Ilhirel would want him at the party."

"But he might be elsewhere in the palace tomorrow," A'kal argued. "Perhaps assigned to guarding Dina's cell?"

Meric sighed. "Let's hope not. You were with us in the sewers under Ridge, A'kal. You saw first hand what he's capable of." He paused, noting the out-of-the-loop expressions on certain members of the fellowship. "Xenthriss is.. or was, one of the original Chosen, though I've no idea why he was chosen in the first place. He's a reckless, power-hungry monstrosity and a blood mage at that. A very old, formidable one. He's the reason we're all here. He betrayed us by delivering Dina to Ilhirel. But as I said, I highly doubt that he'd be at the party, but if we run into him on our way to save Dina..."

"We kill 'im." Laurolf almost spat. "Kill 'im dead."

"I'm afraid he wouldn't leave us any other choice. As for the damage done by his betrayal... That's the reason why those of us who might be compromised are going to be actively looking for Dina, and avoiding Ilhirel at all costs. She doesn't have enough information to determine our full identities, and she doesn't expect us to be there, but she doesn't need her memory and interest jogged, either."

"Good enough, I suppose." A'kal agreed. "But it makes an already dangerous mission all the more dangerous."

"That it does." Meric's eyes wandered away to meet Violet's. "That it does.""

 

[Purr]

Auri the Insatiable
Ambassador of the Drakkar Nation​

For Auri, it went without saying that Xenthriss's possible presence might cause a major roadblock in their plans, but if it happened, it happened. Auri listened patiently, nodding along as he really had nothing to say at the moment. He agreed with the current plan; it was better than anything he had. His years told him, the more planning, the better.

Anything that would help this Dina person...

 

[Kaerri]

Maggie
Priestess of the Maker​

Maggie frowned at Laurolf's "solution" to the Xenthriss problem, but she could offer no alternative. Like Meric, she could not imagine that Xenthriss would leave them any choice; and the others all knew Xenthriss, while she knew of him only from what they had told her. She finished her milk and set the glass on the table before her. "That will happen as it may, and we're all prepared for the worst now. Is there anything else that we need to cover, while we're all here together? Or is this as much planning as we can do before we actually get there and see what we're dealing with?"

 

[Wolf Rawrrr]

"I think that's everything." Violet replied. "We're ready as can be, or will be by tomorrow."

One by one, the rest of the party stated their readiness. Most people seemed plenty tired by now anyway, and likely eager to get a good night's rest - it would be their last night in Alicante for certain, but it could also be their last. Ever.

Meric nodded, then looked at the thief seated in front of him. "Asher?"

 

[Jack Elarithon]

Asher

The Jaded Shadow

​

Mages, in general, proved a hindrance to thieves, ones who relied on their physical abilities to walk the shadows or use sleight-of-hand to best their opponents when forced to face them head on, but a powerful blood mage was above what Asher would call a "concern". A simple spell could blow open a six-month long operation in an instant and has in Asher's guild history, that's why he always prepared proper counter-measures. This time, he didn't have that luxury, nor did he allow himself the choice of refusing this mission.

"A thief's most important skill is, despite what people may assume, improvisation. Guards, blood mages or the sorceress, if I can't find a way past, then my life up to this point has been for nought," Asher stated, whilst gesturing helplessly.

"I will follow Meric's suggestion and attempt to infiltrate the west tower. If I am by any chance discovered, I'll do my best as a distraction. Whatever may come, I am ready."

 

[Wolf Rawrrr]

Date: October 10th, year 3321
Location: City of Alicante, the capital of Asgard
Weather: A dark, cloudy night with occasional gusts of chilly wind.

Around 19:30 h
The Courtyard, Alicante's Royal Palace



The sun had set well over an hour ago, and the night was as dark as it was going to be under the half moon that hung over the capital. Great clouds drifted across the sky like intricate tapestries of alternating dark and pale designs, in one moment seeming to gather and crush together like captainless ghost ships on a collision course, and in the next moving away with great speed, ragged and torn. Underneath sprawled the city, vast and dotted with countless lights that were the hallmark of a great civilization; rivers of light like veins of fiery gold zig-zagging between the stone and wooden buildings, their roof tiles glinting in the light of the moon. Aside from the northwest corner which was mostly dark with the exception of the castle that was brightly lit in contrast, and the single path that led from it to King's Gate, the main entrance into the wall-enclosed Royal Quarter.

That was the path the Chosen took on their way to the wolf den that was the Sorceress' domain. Per Meric's instructions, for caution's sake, each of the three groups was to enter separately, in intervals of five to ten minutes, then proceed along the road to the palace courtyard where the introductory part of the banquet would take place. For events of this level, it was understood that the first half an hour to forty-five minutes was time allotted to the gathering of the guests before they would be invited inside the Great Hall to officially begin the feast. Meric's timing was meant to put all of the Chosen inside the palace as late as possible to avoid unnecessary exposure, yet early enough so that they wouldn't be singled out among the tardier arrivals, which were often prone to greater scrutiny.

The first up was Valtieri, accompanying Baron Durand. The guards at King's Gate barely spared the two of them a second glance past checking their invitations; the baron was well-known and his companion the very icon of a desirable guest at court. Auri's group was next, perhaps ten minutes later. As the drakkar ambassador approached the gate, flanked by Maggie and Laurolf, he was instantly recognized as well. The guard captain, a tall, broad-shouldered man dressed in fine ceremonial mail, hailed him with all the proper etiquette, very respectfully inquiring about his invitation. He had a warm smile for Maggie, whose dress revealed her profession, and a polite nod for Laurolf. The dwarf held himself proudly, obviously keen on playing the part of a loud, cheerful dwarven noble or wealthy merchant type. The trio made it inside without any trouble, hoping that so would Meric and A'kal with Erya Ryagundi when it was their turn.

From King's Gate, the path followed the edge of the royal gardens on the right, straight for a few minutes before it would finally curve towards the palace. These were the gardens that were open to all those who had clearance to be in the Royal Quarter. A tall, well-groomed hedge made up the boundary all around, and even taller trees could be seen towering behind it in some places. The gardens were usually off limits past sunset, Auri knew, but tonight was clearly an exception. The two entrances that his group walked past were both invitingly wide open, unmanned, and besides the braziers at the gates, there was further light coming in from deeper in the garden.

And then, there was the palace.

(the design of this castle isn't quite right, but the atmosphere for the scene is right there)​

The Royal Palace of Alicante was a spectacular structure, a massive build that seemed to be a blend between a military fortress and a castle. It was all sharp angles and twisting contours, with two long battlements at a slight outward angle that flanked the main gates in the middle. The tops of the battlements were open to the sky, basically large stone terraces, except the far sides of each that featured a loft with a sharply angled roof. They were at least forty, possibly even fifty feet high - yet higher still were the two rectangular towers embedded in the middle of each battlement, just beside the palace gates. Beyond, one could see the second floors of the north and south wings, their rooftops shining in the moonlight, as well as the West Tower right between them. Dina could have been looking out from that tower and over the long procession of guests far below, if that was where she was being held. And in the background of everything else rose the East Tower, tall and wide just behind its shorter counterpart. Once the tower of the kings and queens of the ancient Tenárus bloodline, it was now Ilhirel's private residence.

So it was that the Chosen made it into the eye of the storm; the drakkar, the priestess, and the dwarf passing through the long stone passageway that was the palace's main gate, heavily guarded by men and elves alike. The gate's twin portcullises hung threateningly from the ceiling with their sharp, polished arrowhead points. And though the security did not demand a second glance at the invitations here, every one of the passing guests could feel the inspection of a dozen watchful eyes as they made their way inside into the courtyard.

The palace courtyard, normally just an open pass-through space that connected the three different parts of the structure, had been transformed into a beautiful gathering place for the banquet. Colorful banners and flags hung from above, floating in the occasional gust of wind. Fiery braziers and torches on wall sconces reduced the night to an array of playful dancing shadows. In a corner to the left was a raised wooden podium where an elven band was performing tasteful, inviting yet not overly cheerful music on string instruments. In the opposite corner, to the right, was an outside bar where waiters resupplied in their quest to appease each and every guest as they strolled into the courtyard. There were quite a few people gathered here already. Dozens, even, scattered throughout the courtyard. Maggie spotted Valtieri right away, dead centre, looking striking in his silver and white outfit. He seemed to have fit right in, engaged in conversation with three other gentlemen who were apparently quite interested in whatever he was saying to them.

Auri's appearance drew more than a few eyes in his direction, which meant that Maggie and Laurolf were spotted as well. It was likely only a matter of time before someone approached them, but then again, they were expected to mingle anyway - if carefully at that. There was no sign of the Sorceress or any of her retinue, at least. All three of the large, reinforced, double doors that led into the palace proper were firmly shut at the moment, but the left-most ones, which led into the north wing and the Great Hall, would presumably be opening in fifteen, perhaps twenty minutes at the most. All that the present Chosen had to was survive until then.

*** *** ***​

Far above and beyond the posh reception, atop the tower farthest from the grand palace, stood a lone, pale-skinned figure. Getting up on that perch had been the easiest part, Asher knew, as he beheld the expanse of the Royal Quarter on the palm of his hand. The royal equestrian complex was directly beneath him, the only wide open space in the quarter. Beyond he could see both the public and private gardens on the right and left side of the main road, respectively. The private gardens were completely dark; the public ones seemed to be open, with dozens of torches scattered throughout to provide modest lighting. There was a procession of people moving alongside the road between the King's Gate and the palace. The palace itself was well lit, light streaming out of most of the windows of the ground floor. The upper floor was darker in contrast, except the tops of the battlements which were clearly subject to regular patrols. As for the two round towers, very few windows were lit.

From Asher's tower the walls broke off in two directions. The wall on the right separated the Royal Quarter from the rest of Alicante and continued straight towards King's Gate at the far end. The wall on the left was actually the continuation of the main city wall, snaking its way around the palace grounds following the river canal below, to eventually end behind the palace at the long sky-bridge that led to Fort Artan. Violet and her rebels, alongside the westerner Battojutsu, would be somewhere beyond there, Asher knew from the mission briefing. Their task might be just as difficult as his.

By now most of the Chosen should have been inside the courtyard. The official start of the banquet wasn't far off. It was time to move.

 

[Purr]

Auri Grashaal the Insatiable

- Drakkar Ambassador to Asgard -​

"Bum bada bum, bum bada bum, bum da da da da, bum bada bum, bum bada bum, bum da da da da...." Auri hummed a little traveling tune as he made his way, dragon-headed cane in hand, before the palace.

Spoiler: Lively instrumental music to visit palaces to

Chulainn's "Strength and Honor," for both the song and the title seem fitting to a moment like this... =)

He was his usual lively self to all he encountered. All the while he took discreet notice of the people who had arrived, making internal notes of those present and those not, who ought to be here, and who not, if anyone. One never knew when such things might come in handy.

The Insatiable One had dressed in some of his best ambassadorial finery, though he was careful not to choose any of his private favorite pieces. Before the night was over, he might be rolling up, down, and all around and that never his clothing any good. Still, if he was going to stand out, and one of his height, girth, and roundness almost always did at such events, he would do so his way, in a way that would be pleasing to his people while making a strong statement to all who beheld him that they were in the company of a drakkar!

He made sure to stay beside Maggie at all times. These things could become social battlegrounds in the span of seconds; a battleground he did not want to see the little miracle-maker in. Of Laurolf, he had no such reservations. As far as Auri was concerned, anyone getting in that dwarf's way would soon be requiring Maggie's gentle treatments and that was that. He nodded at both in his company. This would be the first adventure since his having turned 350 years old! Who knew what tonight would bring?

It was time to move. And so he did as gracefully as his old bones and cane would allow.

 

[Kaerri]

Maggie
Priestess of the Maker​

Maggie stared around her like a country girl new-come to the city. She'd never been in the palace before, and it showed. As they walked, she smoothed her festive formal robes with one hand while the other tightly clutched Auri's arm. She returned the smile of the King's Gate guard with a shy but warm one of her own, and tried to hide her gawking behind an air of complacency (which probably, to the experienced eye, was just as obvious as the gawking itself). Looking up as they passed through the gardens, Maggie let the moonlight shine on her upturned face as she gazed at the towers, wondering if Dina was there. If she was, maybe she'd see the priestess below, and believe help would soon arrive.

She released Auri's arm when they entered the courtyard, suspecting that it wouldn't do to look too attached. And, she thought, seeing the waiters, they'd need hands free for drinks and such, wouldn't they? She accepted a glass when one of the servers offered it, but only held it to her lips for a moment to smell the liquid it contained. At an occasion like this, it would surely be wine or something like; Maggie rarely drank alcohol (as Auri knew, which was why he'd offered milk last night), and this was not the night to test her limits! She spotted Valtieri, but remained close to Auri's side for now. The whole point of coming in separately was to avoid their looking like a group, right? So much to remember. She wished Meric and A'kal would appear and the great doors into the palace would open. Time always passed more slowly at times like these. She fixed a smile on her face and prayed for patience.

 

[Wolf Rawrrr]

Within moments of arriving, both Auri and Maggie found themselves with a glass of wine in their hand, if they had accepted one from the waiters that dutifully patrolled the courtyard. It was mulled wine; hot and full of spice to combat the cold that was slowly creeping in, though there was regular red wine available in addition. It was served at that perfect temperature where it was just hot enough for one to hold comfortably in their hand.

"Now, now, that's a sight one does not see often!" came a voice from the left, bringing into focus the tall figure of a well-dressed man. "A drakkar diplomat, a human priestess, and a dwarf - a colorful ensemble to stir up the normally dull waters of these gatherings." he said, coming to stand before them with a polite smile. He bowed his head respectfully to Auri. "Be welcome, your Excellency. The name is Elias Ferrani, at your service. And that of your fine company as well."

The man was olive-skinned with black hair that curled towards the ends; his face young and quite attractive¹. Auri did not know him, though the name of Ferrani did ring a bell. They were a noble family originally from a small coastal town near the border with Eldshaw, not very high on the social ladder but just important enough that they might find themselves on a guest list such as tonight's. On the other hand, it was no surprise that Elias knew Auri, even without ever officially meeting him. It was unlikely that Auri would come across someone who did not know who he was at this party.



¹ For a human! This remark is mostly for Maggie's sake

 

[Kaerri]

Maggie

- Priestess of the Maker -​

Maggie cupped her glass in both hands to warm them from the mulled wine within. It had a comforting scent, homey and familiar in the midst of all this formality. For a few minutes, she tried to hide how new she was to the sights and sounds of noble life and just kept to Auri's side. Then some words of Meric's from last night's briefing came back to her. "It's the best way because it's all true," he'd said. "The less lies you have to remember, the less disguises you have to keep up, the better." Well, and here she was, the Ambassador's little priestess friend, accompanying him to the reception as a special treat. Who would be surprised if she wasn't quite sure how to proceed? Oddly, the less she worried about what everyone else was thinking about her, the more comfortable she found herself. Or maybe it wasn't so odd. Wasn't that how it went with everything else? Life in general just went smoother when you stopped worrying about what you looked like and got on with being yourself.

She smiled shyly at the young man who came up and introduced himself. "My name's Maggie," she said quietly. "The ambassador and I became friends some time ago, and when he learned I was in town, he invited me to come with him tonight." Elias was very nice-looking, she thought. It wouldn't do to get distracted tonight, of course. But she couldn't help noticing he had a nice smile.

 

[Purr]

Auri Grashaal the Insatiable

- Drakkar Ambassador to Asgard -​

"I do indeed feel welcome, Ser Ferrani! You have met Maggie and this is my proud friend, Laurolf! How might I be of assistance to you this eve?' Auri nodded respectfully in greeting. Auri wondered if this were simply a social visit or if there were more to it.

On a night like this, anything was possible.

 

[Wolf Rawrrr]

Date: October 10th, year 3321
Location: City of Alicante, the capital of Asgard
Weather: A dark, cloudy night with occasional gusts of chilly wind.

• Dann / Kaerri
• Jack

• 
  Around 19:00
  The Courtyard, Alicante's Royal Palace
  
  "Ah, but you must call me Elias, please - all of you." the young man said, bowing his head a second time. "I would that I could talk to you all in turn, as the night unravels. For now, I must do more greetings. I am here in my father's stead, you see, and there are certain expectations that I must meet. Until a little later, I hope?" he offered with a dazzling smile.
  
  Perhaps it was well that Elias Ferrani was moving on, because over him Auri could see the unmistakable likeness of Bann Arthur Teagan making his way over.
  
• 
  Around 19:25
  Outer Wall Perimeter, Alicante's Royal Quarter
  
  It had taken Asher a good twenty minutes to traverse the length of the outer wall and position himself behind the palace. Security was definitely improved, as was to be expected, so he had to take extra caution in avoiding the patrols. But he still had plenty of time; according to Meric, the guests would still be gathering in the courtyard. Hidden in the shadows of the crenellations, Asher observed the area ahead.
  
  Right in front of him, across the width of the wall, was the ramp that led over to the second floor of the palace. It was a long stone walkway supported on thick stone pillars, high enough to make falling off fatal, and some thirty meters long. Two sets of portcullises were installed on either end of it, both currently open. And both guarded, of course. Two soldiers stood in the way of Asher's progress, though they did not appear overzealous about their duty.
  
  "I'm tellin' you, this is payback for last week's game." one of them said. "You know the sergeant hates losin' at cards, and you still made him lose. So now we're posted here, at the mercy of the elements, when we could've been guardin' a hallway, or a cosy room, from drunken party guests. This is boring."
  
  "Shut it, will ya?" the other man cut him off. "All you do is complain. Mercy of the elements my arse. It's a beautiful night. And you backed me on that hand, so if we were in it then, we're in it now."
  
  There was a long pause. "I heard from a group of Watchmen that they found a whole bunch of dead criminals in a warehouse by the docks. Dead, every last one of them. And no one can tell what happened."
  
  "A deal gone bad, most likely. Who cares? Serves them right."
  
  "Well yea." the first soldier agreed, adjusting his helmet. "But they say that they were all from the same group, the dead ones. Some kind of sigil they all wore. But no sign from the fellas that did them in. Not a body."
  
  "Must have been an ambush." the second soldier suggested.
  
  "Yea, but a dozen men just cut down like that? Who could've done it?"
  
  "Who cares? It's got nothing to do with us. Let the Watch do its job. We've other things to worry about."
  
  The first man paused again. "You think they might ship us off to war, too? It happened to Ian and a few others that I know. They're somewhere down South now, fightin' the Resistance. They might not be back. I heard it's not going well for our side. I heard that the general's been hit, forced to retreat. That the rebels are gainin' ground..."
  
  "Weren't you just complaining about boredom? Maybe a change of pace would do you good. Me too, because I wouldn't have to listen to your prattle. The general is fine. The lines are holding. And the Resistance lost a long time ago. They're not a threat anymore."
  
  "I'm not so sure."
  
  The second soldier said nothing to that, and there was silence, at least for the time being. No other patrols were in sight, either, but that was likely to change before long.
  

 

[Purr]

Auri Grashaal the Insatiable

- Drakkar Ambassador to Asgard -​

Spotting Bann Teagan heading their way, Auri gently turned course to meet him halfway if the crowd allowed. "While I cannot say I know much about this Elias fellow, I-- Ah! Maggie, Laurolf, here comes a figure I am familiar with! Do meet Bann Arthur Teagan - a fine fellow who can be counted on to get the job done!" Auri indicated Maggie with a wide sweep of his claw. "Bann Teagan! Come and enjoy the pleasure of meeting a dove-hearted friend of mine, Maggie of the Maker, and another steel-willed fellow like yourself, Laurolf of the Dwarves!"

Auri was genuinely pleased to see Bann Teagan for here was someone who could be relied upon for his word. Auri saw Teagan as a port in a storm; if ever the drakkar wizard were lost and foundering in Teagan's neck of the woods, he would not hesitate to call upon Bann Teagan's hospitality. He also would offer the same were it the human in a bad way. For Arthur Teagan was a fellow who had earned Auri's respect over the years - not a simple thing to do.

 

[Kaerri]

Maggie

- Priestess of the Maker -​

Maggie smiled and gave Elias a little wave when he moved off. "Until later, Elias," she said quietly.

She turned to follow Auri's gaze and offered another smile to this Bann Teagan he was now introducing her to. She ducked her head in what was not quite a bow, but more than a simple nod. "Hello! I'm pleased to meet any friend of Auri's."

 

[Wolf Rawrrr]

Bann Arthur Teagan was a tall, middle-aged man with brown hair neatly combed backwards and eyes the color of grey sky. He exuded authority and dignity, but cracked a small smile for Auri and Maggie as he was greeted and introduced. When his gaze fell upon Laurolf, however, his features hardened again. He looked a little surprised at that, and the way he repeated Laurolf's name after Auri made it clear that he recognized the dwarf.

There was a similar reaction from Laurolf, though he looked more positive about the encounter. "Arthur." he said, using his first name. "Fancy meetin' you 'ere."

The bann did not seem to mind the dwarf's personal approach in the slightest, even if he did not match Laurolf's friendliness. "I should say the same about you. Interesting company you keep, Ambassador." he addressed Auri. "As you may deduce, Laurolf and I know each other from before. Though we've not met in a long time."

"Three years, more or less."

Bann Teagan nodded, visibly relaxing so that now he looked worried more than anything else. "And as much as I relish seeing you again, I would have never expected it to be here, of all places." As he said it, he glanced both ways; a discreet gesture to check if they could be overheard. "You must have a good reason."

"I heard there would be free drinks." Laurolf replied, bright as ever.

"Free is often the most expensive." the bann retorted. "But what's done is done. We should talk about that, but this is hardly the time or place. It is good to see you, of course - all of you. I am not a frequent guest at these receptions, but I do seem to visit at the right time." His grey eyes focused on the priestess then. "Maggie of the Maker, is it? Do you come to us in an official capacity, then?"

 

[Kaerri]

Maggie

- Priestess of the Maker -​

Maggie shook her head. "No, I wasn't invited specifically, just as Auri's guest." She looked down and smoothed her robes a little self-consciously, then met Bann Teagan's gaze with a wry smile. "I'm not so frequent a guest at this sort of thing myself, you see, and my wardrobe is mostly, well, working clothes, which wouldn't be appropriate for a fancy gathering like this! So I just picked the nicest ones!"

 

[Purr]

Auri Grashaal the Insatiable

- Drakkar Ambassador to Asgard -​

Auri watched his guests with care as he inwardly pondered. Well, if this was not something indeed! Laurolf and Bann Teagan had a past of some kind, one not entirely friendly nor unfriendly! Auri did not want to interrupt the flow of things with his many questions and so he continued to politely listen and carry on.

 

[Wolf Rawrrr]

Maggie could feel Bann Teagan's gaze on her, subtle yet inquisitive. He was taking her measure, probably as taught to by decades of living among nobility. Social warfare was, after all, still essentially warfare. If the enemy was nowhere in sight, that usually meant just that you've failed to spot them.

"I see," he said at length. "Well I wish you a pleasant evening, then. Whatever might be said of the Queen, her hospitality, once given, does not disappoint. As long as you stay in her good graces, that is," he added, so quietly that it was almost conspiratorial. Then he turned back to Auri. "I would use tonight's opportunity to speak with you as well, Ambassador. It would be purely business, I'm afraid - so I'll understand if you elect not to seek me out. I will remain in Alicante until tomorrow at noon, otherwise."

Teagan's words were honest, Auri knew. The bann was a practical man, with little love for needless partying. He would be one of the few to keep a clear head throughout the night, finding ways to further his goals and gain insight while most others sought only what was at the bottom of their glasses.

"Until later, then," Laurolf concluded.

"Indeed," the bann answered with a nod, obviously about to depart their company.