The Warlord and The Priestess

[4Chiri]

(Blue points are the color of allies. Red for enemies. Green for neutral/unknown. Purple for points of interest


and Orange when you are mentioned)


He looked up from his papers as the councilman entered his office. His arms filled with a stack of papers. Immediately he sighed and put his previous stack of bills, documents and other things to the side.


"Sir, here's a new stack of applications, exam results and requests for leave and dismissal." this councilman, Nheir looked down at the tired warlord who rolled his eyes at the large stack. The only part of the job he didn't like...all the damned papers. "You don't look too thrilled." Nheir chuckled.


"I'm not." He said quietly. His name was Moganthe, better known as Moga. He was a simple age of 27, still getting in the swing of things, newly appointed as the warlord for the Emperor. He wore his hair in a brown braid, just down to his shoulders, and nearly always wore his armor. He was stout, sturdy with a wide build and quite powerful. "You wouldn't enjoy it either Nheir, it's the same thing all day, every day."


"Well," Nheir started with his hands folded behind his back. He stepped casually over to the window, in the small wooden office and peeked out across the street. From the second floor he had a pretty good view of most of the Imperial District - if not for the large blue steeple of the Basilica (church) just in front of them. It's stained glass of all colors made a beautiful reflection on the grounds below, against the cobbled walkway that was the main road.


"The Emperor wants you to escort the new appointed Priestess around the Imperial District today, and take her to the amphitheater for her first sermon to the people this afternoon." Nheir explained. "I've yet to meet her."


Moganthe sighed...it was always something.


~***~


In the church, many young oracles and acolytes scurried around cleaning things making things perfect for when the Warlord would arrive and pick up the Oracle who was hopefully busy in her room, saying her many prayers before receiving her ceremonial brooch--preparing for her ceremony, to become priestess officially. She would meet the emperor and then be taken to the amphitheater for her first speech to the people, who would soon come to her from all across the land for advice, worship and forgiveness. It was a big job...


Mother Dyona, the woman who would be conducting this Ceremony waited patiently in the foyer for this young woman to be ready for then the Warlord came to get her.

 

[Morigan]

Melia knelt at her immaculate bedside, finishing the very last of her prayers. She was slightly behind her normal schedule, having lingered in her supplications to Karamina. This day was hugely significant and many eyes would be upon Melia, she prayed for strength of spirit in herself as she faced the coming day. The hardness of the floor under her knees, the stiffness in her neck from bowing her head, the stuffiness of her small room- all these things faded away as the coming introduction to the Emperor and her first speech consumed her thoughts.


She slowly rose from her bed and glanced around the small room for what would be the last time. After her official installation as the new Priestess, she would be moved to larger quarters. The small austere room had become so familiar that Melia almost regretted leaving it behind. She shook her head, as if to clear the twinge of sadness from her mind. This was a great honor and responsibility, and somber gratitude was the only thing Melia wished to show to the world. Since she was a little young for this appointment, only 24 years old, Melia wanted others to only see confidence and reliability when they looked upon her for spiritual guidance.


As the time arrived to meet Mother Dyona in the foyer, Melia looked into her small wall mirror to make sure her long blonde hair was securely braided and coiled at the base of her neck, hidden from sight by her veil. She straightened her long, loose navy blue robes and pulled her elbow length gloves on carefully. Anything less than perfection in her appearance today would be unacceptable. She surveyed herself once more: though she was petite in build and height, the dark robes lent her a commanding presence and her clear green eyes assessed all around her quickly and filed each bit of information away in her sharp memory. Melia nodded at herself once, and turned on her heel, exiting her room.


As she descended the stairs she saw Mother Dyona near a window in the foyer. "Mother Dyona, I am prepared to meet my escort and begin the day," Melia said softly as she approached the older woman. "Has he arrived?" Melia looked about her at the other people, seeing only acolytes and oracles younger than she nearby.

 

[4Chiri]

Mother Dyona wore exaggerated robes, tall points to accentuate her shoulders and those on her headpiece, only her eyes visible. Soon, Malia's robes would be similar.


"No," she said, her old voice a bit muffled under all the layers of red and blue silks and scarves. Red and Blue being the colors of the nation. Wearing any other color, for someone of her status, was seen as a heinous act, even a travesty, especially by the Prophets. "I suppose however, he is on his way. Did you pray this morning? Ceru forgive you if you didn't." she wagged her finger.


However, an interruption, one of the younger oracles, called and quickly opened the door. "Mother Dyona, The Warlord is here early!" Swiftly she made way for Moganthe who strode into the room with the Councilman. He too wore a more decorative, ceremonial set of armour. Shining silvery breastplate and ornate design. It gave a glint in the morning sun. His velvet, blood red cape trailing behind him on the floor.


He raised his hand to his chest and bowed graciously to both Melia and Mother Dyona -- as did Nheir.


"Oracle, Mother Dyona, I hope I am not late." he said. His blue eyes were shimmering, but tired and his brown hair neatly done. Mother Dyona smiled, though it was not visible.


"Warlord, It is a pleasure." she spoke quietly, "I hope the morning suits you well."

 

[Morigan]

Melia paused to consider the robes she would soon don herself, and the weight of her responsibilities settled about her shoulders like a cloak. She took comfort in knowing what her role in life would always be.


Melia was about to answer Mother Dyona's admonition with reassurance that she had, indeed, completed all her prayers when they were interrupted by one of the young oracles. The youngling informed Mother Dyona that the Warlord had arrived ahead of schedule. Melia turned to see two men striding toward them, though one of them stood out more sharply. The shine of his ceremonial armor and crimson of his cape told her he must be the Warlord, sent to escort her.


"Greetings Warlord, Councilman," Melia said softly, inclining her head slightly in greeting. Her quick eyes noticed the exhaustion present in the Warlord's eyes, and she felt a pang of sympathy for him, being required to squire her about on this significant day. Protocol demanded she keep to pleasantries however, so all she said was : "I am Melia."

 

[4Chiri]

"I hear congratulations are in order?" Nheir the councilman smiled and nodded in greeting. "I was just finishing up some quick business with the warlord, I will be on my way. Hopefully I will see you at your ceremony yes?" he smiled and quickly left with his speedy walk. He too was a very busy man.


The warlord stepped up to Melia and went down to one knee, removing his sword and holding it, submissively in his hand.


"I am Moganthe, milady," he spoke clearly, while staring to the floor. "Starting now, my sword is your sword, your wishes are my duties and your commands are my law." he said and was excused by Mother Dyona.


"please, stand warlord...we are honored." she smiled, and turned to Melia. "child, go with the warlord, he is your protection for the rest of the day, and after you become preistess, will be your protection until you leave this world, that you can count on. I am proud of you...the gods are proud of you." she said in goodbye. For when Melia came back, she would no longer answer to anyone and would be as authoritative to the people as the Emperor himself.


Moganthe stood and motioned for Melia to follow him out into the bright morning of the busy marble city. From there, they could hear the crowd of people, waiting to see who would be their next priestess. They chattered, trying to push past the fifty guards that kept them at bay.

"Who is the priestess!?"


"Let us see her!"


"where is she!?"


"will she preach to us today!?"
​

​

Moganthe gave her a reassuring look.


"Don't worry about the crowd, just head straight into the armored carriage prepared for you, I'm right behind you, milady." he said firmly.

 

[Morigan]

Melia could not respond before the councilman had already rushed off to complete his many tasks, but that was unsurprising, she had not truly expected him to linger.


As Moganthe dropped to a knee before her and made his pronouncement of protection, Melia silently raised her hand in a gesture of blessing over his bowed head. After a moment Mother Dyona indicated that he should rise and gave her final instructions to Melia. As she moved to follow Moganthe out into the light of day, she said her goodbyes to the older woman. "Thank you, Mother Dyona. Blessings upon you always," Melia said, turning and following her new protector into the busy streets.


The clamoring of the crowd drew her attention immediately, people desperate to see her before she donned the robes of office that would hide her true face from one and all. The many guards holding the sea of people at bay looked beleaguered and a bit frustrated at the surging and shoving from the city folk, so Melia tried to draw as little attention to herself as possible, lest the unruly crowd break the line.


Moganthe's reassurance behind her steeled her nerves and she stood up straighter. "Of course," she said, walking quickly and determinedly towards the armored carriage, trusting his words that he would be right behind her. She kept her countenance peaceful, but impassive, looking only at her destination so that no one in the crowd would try to rush at them. She had almost reached the carriage, and was but a step away from the door when a shout even louder than those of the general crowd rang out.

"I demand to see the Priestess!"

​

Melia faltered for a moment and instinctively turned to look back over her shoulder, searching for the voice, before she even realized what she was doing.

 

[4Chiri]

Crazed followers...people believing so strongly it drove them mad. either that or worse...


When she turned she could see only Moganthe's reassuring glance.


"Keep moving," he said sternly. The carriage door, opened by the driver, quickly before trouble she was shuffled in and the door slammed and locked.


Moganthe stood on the outside of her door. the small curtains closed so no one would see. He walked with his sword drawn next to the carriage as it pushed through the noisy crowd - at a painfully slow pace. An entire squadron of guards surrounded the carriage as it pushed towards the amphitheater next to the Imperial Palace, where they would meet the Emperor.


"how are you my lady?" Moganthe called over the noise. "we will be there soon, just keep relaxed."


People continued to scream and call. Crazily, desperate to see who would be the new Priestess, even a glimpse of her face would mean a perfect blessing. straight from the gods themselves.

 

[Morigan]

Melia's green eyes met Moganthe's blue ones as she met his gaze over her shoulder. He urged her onward and she made it safely into the carriage. Melia turned to thank Moganthe but the door had already been hurriedly shut and a heavy lock separated her from the public outside. Small, dark curtains blocked her from view of that world, and she knew if she only moved her hand slightly they would park, revealing her to the outside world. Her fingers twitched for a moment, but she stilled them, knowing such an action would only make this journey more difficult for her protector.


They had traveled a short ways when Moganthe's muffled voice came to her through the carriage walls.


"I am well, Warlord Moganthe, have no concern for me," Melia raised her voice above the usual soft tone, if only so that he might hear her over the din of the crowd.


As they neared the Palace, Melia relaxed into the plush seating of the coach, pensive and philosophical. People were willing to risk so much just to see her face, only because she was to be Priestess in a matter of hours. If the honor had fallen to another, her face would be nothing to all these people- just one more Oracle in the city. But she had been chosen, and people were vying for a glimpse of her, and Fate had chosen her for Priestess. Soon she'd take the veil and this frenzy would pass.

 

[4Chiri]

The crowd finally dispersed when they reached the steps to the palace. Royal Guards also called The Silver Knights held pikes towards the crowd as this was the Emperor's home. The noise of the crowd quieted as they could no longer follow.


After they parked outside the wide marble steps leading up to the palace, Moganthe opened the carriage door.


"Face the palace, my lady." he ordered, keeping her face from everyone until they reached indoors; until they were safe.


Inside standing near the throne was the councilman and the Emperor. He stood wearing his ceremonial robes and his tall, pointed silver crown. deep blue eyes and a strong, intimidating glare. His voice deep and rattling.


He bowed as this soon to be priestess entered.


"Milady, it is an honor." he said.

 

[Morigan]

It was not long before they had reached the Palace, passing the Silver Knights and leaving the crowd far behind. Melia disembarked and followed Moganthe's instructions as they entered the Palace to meet the emperor. Once they passed through the doors, she relaxed slightly since the crowd could no longer accidentally glimpse her face. She turned her focus towards this important meeting.


Melia's eyes noticed the councilman waiting near the throne but landed on the Emperor himself. His crown and commanding presence dominated the room. She had to remind herself that soon, her authority in this realm would be nearly equal to his, and she could not allow herself to be intimidated by his cold stare.


She approached the throne with a confident, measured stride, stopping only a few feet away. "The honor is mine, your majesty," she replied, curtseying in response to his bow. "Blessings upon you on this auspicious day."

 

[4Chiri]

"I wish you fortune, Oracle. it is a great honor and responsibility you're being given. As I lead this country, I give you control of my peoples faith." He said with a nod, however his face a bit confused.


"You're so young."


The councilman, Nheir, answered quickly.


"Yes, Mother Dyona already sent you the oracle's rest results and background history. She passed every exam, all she has to do now is pilgrimage." he said quickly while sifting through a pile of papers that he always seemed to be carrying.


The Emperor nodded and motioned for them all to follow down a long corridor, leading outside to the amphitheater. The echoes of a crowd began to return...and not just from the city.


People from all over the country came to watch this ceremony..where the Emperor would announce a new priestess and the old Mother would step down and place the cowl on the next woman.


Moganthe stayed close, right next to Melia.


"Continue facing forward milady," he said. A patrol of knights would follow too until they reached the large stage where Mother Dyona awaited them with the new garb for Melia.

 

[Morigan]

Melia nodded as Moganthe told her to face forward. "Indeed," she responded softly.


She listened to the roar of the crowd, pilgrims and faithful from across the empire come to see her ascend to Priestess. Moganthe ushered her forward to the stage where Mother Dyona stood waiting for them. The clank of metal on stone let Melia know that the squad of soldiers escorted them as well, yet another precautionary measure.


Melia ascended the steps, moving into place for the ceremony. She eyed the heavy mantle and cowl that Mother Dyona would soon place upon her. The red and blue stood out brightly against the stone amphitheater, a beacon shining in a sea of white and gray. In mere moments, Melia herself would be that beacon, guiding her people in their faith until she passed from this world. A wave of anxiety passed through her, catching her off-guard. Suddenly the unreachable loneliness of her position filled her soul as she knew none of these people would ever be more than devoted disciples of the faith- no friends, no family. She was called to rise above these things and speak to and for the Gods. In a moment of weakness she whispered so low that none could hear, save Moganthe at her side: "Don't leave me..."


She instantly regretted showing human failings, but the words could not be taken back. Melia kept her eyes fixed pointedly forward, refusing to look at the man to whom she had just whispered her plea, lest he see more weakness in her eyes.

 

[4Chiri]

He didn't look down, instead he kept his eyes forward and his voice was filled with duty, nothing more.


"I am your protection, milady."


Mother Dyona smiled down at Melia as the Emperor, his advisor and the councilman sat down in large stone thrones behind them.


The crowd was noisy and loud until the mother stood up to the large podium and raised her hands.


"Faithful people! Hear me!" she yelled. Her voice filling the theater. "The gods have moulded the path for another speaker, they have created a light for you to follow. A Priestess has been chosen! A body for the abode of the words of the gods!"


The people cheered and screamed. It was almost completely overwhelming.


"Aunlin'Zath guides is to the end,


Iroth'an births us!


Karamina gives us spirit to combat the dark of


Beniritha who would punish those who go astray with curses.


Narus Lyn Tac gives us the graces of this land while


Et'in Os keeps us fed with rain and sun!


Ziranos lights our way with the sun and moon...


Yinar shows us love that teaches those of


Resithius that we are above his hate!


Xidon, our Architect who built us as a whole, blesses us each day!


Ajeton of whom we must avoid, as he will guide us downward.


Ceru will forgive you if


Ferevoux lingers in your heart! resist the temptations of Bochi and see the truth here!" she yelled over the roaring crowd.


"Our new Priestess!"


The Emperor stepped up next to Dyona as she carefully faced Melia away from the crowd, instead she was directly facing towards Moganthe. She carefully removed the old Cowl and robes.


"I'm proud of you Melia...tell these people that they can place their faith in you..." she smiled and wrapped Melia in the thick robes and covered her with the large cowl. Now...only her eyes could be seen.


"face the crowd and show them you are the gods new tool. for exacting punishment and praise." she said and turned Melia towards the podium.


it all happened so fast. and now...the crowd was silent...

 

[Morigan]

When Melia heard Moganthe's flat reply she knew her words had shamed them both. She resolved to never let it happen again. He would do his duty and she would do hers- it was the way of the world.


Mother Dyona gave the symbolic speech and covered Melia in the ancient robes, officially marking her as Priestess. She gave the older woman a small nod and then turned to face the masses, her eyes scanning the crowds as she took it all in. The silence was almost more oppressive than the yelling had been; they waited for her to impart the words of the gods upon them and it seemed to Melia almost as though they were holding their breath in anticipation. Taking one step forward and raising her arms out to the side in a gesture of welcome and embrace Melia began her address to the people.


"Faithful, you have shown your belief and respect for the Gods and the wisdom of the Canticle by being witnesses today. As the Architect has ordained everything must have a beginning and an ending, and today you have participated in this cycle of rebirth as I arise to bring the messages of our gods to you and to guide you upon the paths of life you must tread. As the gods divinely demand, I shall lead, teach, nurture, rebuke and punish in accordance with our Faith and the precepts of the Canticle. The faithful need fear nothing and the wicked should flee before the power and judgement of the gods! Blessings upon you all, this sacred day, and always," Melia finished, lowering her arms and stepping back.

 

[4Chiri]

The mother nodded proudly and like an eruption the crowed screamed and cried.


Moganthe then quickly came forward as the crowd rushed out to go to the front of the palace to line up for first blessings.


The Emperor going first down the corridor from whence they came and Moganthe guiding The new Priestess and the Mother down the quieter path back into the palace.


The councilman caught up however.


"what a perfect speech, much shorter than the last priestess, but good! Now you will stand next to the emperors throne and one at a time people will come in for a blessing from you. it could take hours but...such is the way of life." he explained in a breath.


Moganthe said nothing as they made their way into the thrown room, surrounded by knights, guards and even powerful mages in all corners of the room.


The doors were open as the Emperor took his seat.


He looked up at Melia.


"are you ready to begin your blessings? the people are eager...and there's at least 50,000 people here today..." he chuckled.


"You don't have to bless them ALL today...but a good amount." he said


Moganthe sighed quietly, it's been hours since he slept.


The Emperor spoke again.


"or not, it's all up to you. You can save this for another time and go rest if you wish." he suggested.

 

[Morigan]

Melia heard Moganthe's sigh and realized she, too, was exhausted. But this was her responsibility, her duty. It could not be shirked for earthly concerns like exhaustion.


"I shall begin now, your Majesty. They have waited as long as we, let us not keep them longer."


She walked to the throne and took her place standing beside it, ready to bestow blessings upon the people. "Let us begin, if you please." She waved a hand to indicate the doors the would allow the petitioners to enter the throne room.


A pair of knights stationed by the doors opened the massive portal as Melia said across the room: "In groups of no more than one hundred at a time please." The knights nodded and began allowing the first group in, herding them into a semblance of a line to speak with Melia. One at a time each person was motioned away from the group to step forward and be blessed by the new Priestess.

 

[4Chiri]

Some people brought forth their newborns. Their eldest family members, sick and ailing. Hundreds of people...many...many hours. People from the City of Dolcima, where the largest basilica was built; pilgrims from the province of Jedes, where it was said the first priestess was named. Faithful from all over the country.... All the way into the evening when the sun began to kiss the horizon. Stars began to glimmer in the twilight. Moganthe however, never showed signs of wavering, or exhaustion as he stared forwards at the crowd, keeping a close eye on everyone who came to the Priestess.


As the last of the crowd finally dispersed another member from the gentry appeared from somewhere, within the depths of the palace. He was an advisor for foreign relations, someone who didn't acknowledge the presence of the Priestess, though he should have. He came next to Moganthe and whispered something in the man's ear.


He was old, and wizened. He wore deep green robes and had pale, wrinkled skin and sunken eyes. He looked ancient. His name was Zegothan.


Moganthe nodded and was able to take his eyes away from the guard when all the people were sifted out and the throne room was quiet. He and Zegothan standing close to the Emperor, whispering things.


Nheir came up to the priestess last, along with Mother Dyona and slightly took her away from the three men, suddenly in their secrets.


"You did a wonderful job, my dead." Mother Dyona grinned. "You make the gods proud, and you wear your robes perfectly."


Nheir nodded.


"I agree, I'm honored to be in your presence, milady. When Moganthe is done, I'm sure he will escort you to the Basilica for rest, no doubt you are tired and hungry." he said sympathetically.


Dyona shook her head.


"Nonsense, our new Priestess is a tool for the gods, she feels no exhaustion, only enlightenment."

 

[Morigan]

Melia looked curiously at the three men in counsel with each other, whispering with heads close together. Some matter of state, no doubt, and of little concern to Melia. Her domain was the faith, not politics. She shifted from foot to foot subtly, grateful the voluminous robes disguised her movements as she sought to ease the cramps in the soles of her feet and work the stiffness from her neck and back. She could not stretch as she desired, at least not until she was alone in her chambers.


Councilman Nheir's words were perfectly timed with a slight growl from Melia's stomach, though the robes muffled the sound. "Thank you councilman Nheir," she inclined her head graciously. "Though I must agree with Dyona, duties of the Priestess preclude mortal concerns. However, as we have seen to the needs of the public, I shall indeed be grateful for sustenance and rest, as the Architect has designed our mortal bodies to require."


Melia turned to wait patiently and silently for Moganthe to escort her back to the Basilica. The cooling air reminded her that night had fallen and she had yet to eat today. She would send one of the acolytes to bring her a meal as soon as she returned. The thought of food made her smile, and she was grateful for her heavy veil that obscured her face. It wouldn't do for people to see the Priestess smiling at the thought of bread and cheese.

 

[4Chiri]

After a short moment, Moganthe stepped up to the Priestess again and bowed.


"I apologize for the sudden interruption, milady." he spoke and looked to Nheir, "is the carriage ready? I'm sure the lady is tired of standing."


Nheir shook his head, "no sir...it was taken for detailing."


Moganthe gave an irritable gruff, "come with me, my lady." he said and motioned for him to follow. He headed towards the stables. Most of the townspeople were sleeping...or keeping quiet to themselves by now. Seeing Moganthe kept them at bay as they were much more calm. Still the Silver Knights watched from a distance with arrows trained on every citizen who wondered too close.

 

[Morigan]

"That is quite alright, such things are often unavoidable," Melia responded, her voice full of understanding. Upon hearing the carriage was not available, she bit back a sigh of disappointment and simply nodded when Moganthe instructed her to follow him.


The quiet night was such a change from the chaotic day she had just endured and Melia wished she could at least lower her face veil, though she knew such a thing was impossible and was the gravest breach of protocol. Another sigh threatened to escape until she pressed her lips firmly together and ruthlessly squashed the desire to make any sound.


Though unfamiliar with the layout of the Palace, Melia began to guess they were nearing the stables: the smells of hay and horse permeated even her thick robes.

 

[4Chiri]

"Here," he said and led her to one specific, armoured horse. A stallion. It was a perfect brown, clean and maintenanced and beautiful.


"...You can use my horse, I will lead you to the Basilica my lady." he said, looking down to the floor after positioning the obedient horse in front of her. It was his duty after all to be assured she would suffer no pain..as much as possible. Plus it was quicker than walking. He held firmly onto the reigns and placed a stepstool at her feet. As much help as possible without touching her.

 

[Morigan]

"Thank you, Moganthe," Melia said. "What a lovely animal you have," she looked at the fine horse appraisingly. She carefully moved up onto the step stool, taking care with her many robes not to trip. She braced her self on the saddle with one foot in the stirrup and jumped, swinging her other leg over the far side. She was thankful that the length and shapeless-ness of her robes allowed her to ride astride on the horse and retain her modesty. Any other robe or dress and she'd be required to ride sidesaddle to avoid showing her calves and ankles.


Once she had situated herself atop the horse she turned to her protector. "I believe I am ready," she said fighting to keep exhaustion from her voice.

 

[4Chiri]

He didn't answer the compliment to his horse. Instead they began to silently trek down the road towards the basilica. It seemed as if time had paused, as the quiet was awkward. Upon them being acquaintances, and having met for the first time today, he wasn't allowed to respond or conduct pleasantries. It was improper, as she was not a person with flaws, but a symbol of perfection, a symbol of the gods. She was a beacon now, of faith...a doorway to the heavens.


They soon reached the gates to the basilica and he easily stopped the horse. It muffled as he patted it roughly on the neck.


"I will be here in the morning, Priestess. I will retrieve you for your first breakfast with the Emperor, and then obtain our schedule for the day." He said without emotion, keeping his glare away from her. He couldn't even mumble a simple goodnight.

 

[Morigan]

Melia sighed as he departed. It seemed even pleasant idle chat was out of reach for her now. She was truly alone.


She made her way into the Basilica, up to her new quarters- awarded to her because of her new status. The room was larger than her last, decked in the red and blue of the empire instead of plain white like the rest of the Oracles' rooms. Once inside she firmly drew the curtains and bolted the door to ensure she could not be seen before she removed her veil and cowl. She set these gingerly in her wardrobe and laid her long gloves upon the night table nearby before she began systematically unpinning her braided coil of hair. As the last pin came free her blonde hair cascaded down her back, a bright waterfall reaching past her waist. Next she removed her heavy robes, hanging them next to her headdress for the evening. She turned to look in the mirror and saw a young woman in a simple short cotton shift-dress- not a Priestess, Mother of the Faith. She wondered when she when begin to see the latter in her reflection, a visage no one else would see again.


After eating the small meal sent up to her room, Melia fell into a deep sleep, roused only by an insistent knocking on her chamber door.


"My lady, you must awaken. Your breakfast with the Emperor is less than an hour hence," a young acolyte called from the other side of the heavy wood door.


"I am awake, thank you," Melia said by way of dismissing the other. She performed her morning routines quickly, bathing, dressing, and completing her many prayers. She draped the veil and cowl over her head again and unbolted her door, descending the stairs to meet with her protector once more.

 

[4Chiri]

Mother Dyona would stay in the basilica to help until the new priestess was fully acclimatized to her new responsibilities. The Warlord stood in the foyer, fully armoured and dressed as if he'd never slept to begin with.


"My lady," he bowed once more and motioned towards the carriage. The breeze coming in from the door was quite frigid as they were in the deepest of fall. Most of the leaves now blowing across the cobbled road in a mess of orange and red.


Once again the carriage stood ready, cleaned and perfect. Inside waiting was a handmaiden. Handmaidens were personal servants of the Priestesses', they had only one who would do things for them. Like handshakes, taking items from offerings as gifts so that the priestess would not touch materialistic things; growing unrealistic desires. She would also conduct first tastes to be sure there was no poison in food and the like.


"Hello milady, I am your maiden, I will be serving your daily needs as you command." she bowed.


Once Melia was shuffled into the carriage, they were off.


"Could I offer you a blanket milady? 'tis cold in the morn."


As usual, Moganthe walked next to the door.