Fetch Quest

Location: Alba / Hills

Time: Y1503 / 19th day of the Harvest Moon / Dawn

POV: Stella

*pant* *pant* (Stella)

"Come on, we are almost there!" *pant* (Feldris)

I look up from the ground for the first time in hours.

Towering above a near vertical cliff a few kilometres from here I see a fortification. My current home, the Temple of Alba.

The morning sun has yet to reach us, but Alba is higher from the ground and is already basking in the morning light, the sun's rays playing with the white walls.

I'm sleepy, bruised and dead tired. This sight alone is enough to give me back some of my strength. Alba looks like a beacon of hope at this time of the day. An heart warming sight.

"At our current pace it will take us about an hour to reach Alba." (Feldris)

*pant* "Good. We are out of danger, so we can take our time." (Steffen)

Even our leader looks like he is about to collapse from exhaustion. The forced night march and the fight with the Wyvern took a lot out of us.

I just want to hug my bed.

--------------------------------

Location: Alba / Gates

From high up on the walls, guards are watching our every move.

"Halt! Who goes there!" (Guard)

Just let us in, already! You know very well who we are. And I'm too tired for this. The climb to Alba sapped the last of my strength.

My eyelids feel so heavy...

*pant* "I'm Steffen! Leader of the Fourth Unit! Open the gates!" (Steffen)

"I didn't know anything about you being out, Leader Steffen. I have to ask the Leader before opening the gate." (Guard)

"Do you think guards are informed of every little detail?!? You are wasting my time!!! Open the gates!" (Steffen)

"I'm sorry, Leader Steffen. I cannot comply with your request. Directives from Priestess Mera are clear. Nobody comes in or out without her knowing. I'll let you in as soon as I confirm everything is in order." *wave hand* (Guard)

A nearby guard runs away in an hurry at the sign of their comrade.

It's not like I don't understand.

With the Gifted One here and with the royal envoys expected later today, they can't take any chances... But any longer and I might just fall asleep in front of the gates... My bed is so close, and yet so far.

"We survived a wyvern from the Black Mountains, but passing through the gates of Alba is beyond even our skills! Isn't that right, mighty leader?" *smile* (Feldris)

*giggle* (Stella)

Leave it to our scout to lighten the mood.

--------------------------------

Location: Alba / Barracks Dorm

It took forever for the guard to open that gate. One way or another, we finally made it.

"We have the rest of the day off. After our well deserved sleep do you want to do something with me?" (Feldris)

*open door* (Stella)

I'm too tired to answer. We pass through the door of the dorm.

In front of us there are rows upon rows of bed. Each bed is simple, but has another bed stacked over the other. Alba is a small fortification. Space is always an issue.

My bed is the lower bed four from the entrance. I sit and start taking off my dirty and ragged equipment. I'm half for sleeping with it on, but I would sleep badly, and I would probably be waken up and disciplined by my leader, later. So... no.

*undress* (Stella)

"Soldier. I was asked to bring you a meal. Take it." (Recruit Stefi)

I'm slower than usual, so I didn't notice her coming. Steffi is a recruit that sleep next to me. She is a grumpy girl, about ten years in age. She has short hair, and her face looks older than her age would suggest. She probably went through a lot.

"Tanks, Stefi." *smile* (Stella)

"I did it because I was ordered to." *leave* (Stefi)

... It's not good to always be this negative.

She leaves a bowl on my bed, and leave. She is carrying two others bowls in a tray. I guess one is for Feldris, on is for Steffen.

"Wait, Stefi. Our leader is not here, now. Do you know where Steffen's bed is?" (Stella)

... Fine. Keep it to yourself.

*slurp* (Stella)

--------------------------------

Location: Alba / Priestess Chamber

POV: Priestess Mera

*knock* "Leader Steffen arrived. He wishes to see you immediately." (Sister Milgrid)

"Let him in." (Priestess Mera)

*enter* (Steffen)

Steffen looks really tired. His armor is battered, he is covered in dirt and his exposed skin is full of bruises. It seems this was no easy mission.

Still, he carries a small unimpressive sack with him. No matter how hard the mission, he seems to always pull through.

It pains me to rely on Steffen so much, but his reputation of getting the job done is no rumor. And The Church needs results, right now. I was right to send him.

"I take your mission was a success, Leader Steffen?" (Mera)

"It was, Priestess." (Steffen)

*thump* (Sack)

"Two kilograms of Black Gold nuggets. The moles exchanged it for iron, as you said they would." (Steffen)

I can't help but let out a surprised expression.

Faber was true to his words. To think there was such a method to collect black gold! And two kilograms of it, nevertheless! That old man is proving himself to be even greater of an asset than I thought. Meridia was right on the mark.

"Anything else you'd like to report?" (Mera)

"... A wyvern engaged us along the way. We were saved by inquisitor Augure who was apparently following after us." *glare* (Steffen)

It's quite obvious he is not pleased by that. But it was the right choice to dispatch the inquisitor as well. He knows that. He probably would have liked to know she was there, but... well, what's done is done.

"You know inquisitors have their ways, Leader. Since she was of use, I hope you will forgive this transgression of mine." (Mera)

"I trust you will disclose when my unit is being followed, next time." *leave* (Steffen)

I didn't dismiss him, but he probably doesn't have the strength to face an argument with me after his ordeal.

Steffen faith is unbreakable. He even choose his duties to the Church over his old comrade Leonora. Even if there are minor disagreement, Steffen would never betray the Church.

"Have Faber escorted to my chambers. Meridia as well. We have much to discuss." (Mera)

"As you will." *leave* (Sister Milgrid)

Materials

Location: Alba / Tower of Gifts / Priestess' Chamber

Time: Y1503 / 19th day of the Harvest Moon

POV: Priestess Mera

*enter* "You wanted to see me, Mera?" (Master Arteficer Faber)

The Master Arteficer enters my chamber without even being announced. And he is way to easygoing while talking to me. He has heavy dark circles around his eyes, and his presence feels somewhat weaker. He must be working hard to master the Forge of Alba.

*sigh* "Yes, Master Arteficer. My soldiers procured the materials according to your instructions." (Priestess Mera)

There is no helping it. He made it clear that his only interest lays in creating artifacts. I guess he is using us in as much as we are using him. I feel like he is not intentionally disrespecting me, or my position. He just doesn't care about my titles as long as I give him what he needs. And, likewise, I care about the quality of his work. I'll just have to excuse his lack of manners.

As long as he delivers, that is.

*opens sack* *examine nuggets* (Faber)

Without saying a word, Faber grabs several nuggets of black gold from the sack, and examine them with the care and expertise he is famous for.

He looks at the nuggets from every angle. Weight them, lick them and crush them against each others. After a few minutes, he seems satisfied and put the nuggets back.

"Your soldiers are something else, Mera. My men never returned with this much black gold! Keep up the good work!" *grin* (Faber)

"... I'm glad you approve, Master Arteficer. How long until I can see some of your works?" (Mera)

"Don't hold your breath, Mera. I will take as long as I need. I swear youngsters are always in such an hurry! One can make a rushed job, or a good job. And I aim for the highest possible quality artifacts!" *grin* (Faber)

"Very well. Your reputation precede you, Master Arteficer. I will comply with your request. But keep me posted on your progress. I will not compromise on that." (Mera)

"Fine by me. I want to pass on my techniques, after all. I need not to keep secrecy at this late hour. Sister! Pick up this sack and follow me, will you?" (Faber)

*stare* (Milgrid)

*sigh* "Do as the Master Arteficer says, Sister Milgrid." (Mera)

*pick up sack* (Milgrid)

*leave* (Faber, Milgrid)

*sigh* (Mera)

Is this another trial, Gloria?

Fair Trade

Location: Secularia / Square

Time: Y1503 / 19th day of the Harvest Moon / Midday

POV: Narrator

At its height, Secularia was a blooming town. Being the first town after the Silent Forest, the town was a busy trade route, and its famous inns provided the weary merchants, soldier and pilgrims with a roof and a warm meal.

Those times were gone.

The Church of Gloria and the local Lord abandoned the town, leaving it to the mercy of mercenaries and brigands. By the time soldiers of the Kingdom stepped in to restore order, Secularia was a mere husk of a town.

The wooden fence that once protected the town was now unmanned and broken in many places. Most of the buildings in the outer skirts are now little more than piles of ashes and coal.

Of the hundred buildings, only a dozen remains habitable. A new flimsy barricade was built around them, separating the remains of the inner city from the ruins around them.

"I want salt and vegetables. I'll exchange them for some cooking utensils." (Hooded Peasant)

*thump* *clattering sounds* (Sack)

Just yesterday, a travelling merchant got into town. The first merchant Secularia has seen in more than a moon.

The job of a travelling merchant is dangerous, but some are willing to put up with the risks for the quick coins it can make.

"Of course. I'll weight the tools, and calculate the exchange rate. It'll take a minute." (Merchant Novella)

The female merchant skilfully took items from the sack, and weighted them on the scale inside her cart under the watchful eyes of two city guards. Protection was required, otherwise the merchant might just have been robbed or worse by the desperate dwellers.

If Secularia was to rise once more, the new lord appointed by the Kingdom needed it to be at least safe enough for commerce to happen.

Tribute will not flow from a dead town.

"Here. This is your share of salt and vegetables." (Merchant Novella)

"Only this much?!?" (Hooded Peasant)

"If you don't like the deal, you can take your tools back." (Merchant Novella)

*ready weapons* (Guards)

*take sacks* *leave* (Hooded Peasant)

Threatened by the guards, the city dweller left. The next in line stepped forward, him too holding a sack filled with used tools.

The looters will be able to sustains themselves for a while thanks to the content of the ruins around them.

--------------------------------

Time: Y1503 / 19th day of the Harvest Moon / Evening

With the evening, the looters returned to their homes.

"Your share for today's work. Five Light Coins each." *hands over purse* (Merchant Novella)

*take purse* "It was a pleasure doing business with you." *grin* (Guard)

"Remember our agreement. I can leave my cart inside your stables, at the barracks." (Merchant Novella)

"Of course. It just won't be us guarding you. Our less... proactive colleagues will guard the barn as part of their duties. Now, if you excuse us, we'll take our well deserved leave." (Guard)

"We'll see you tomorrow, fair merchant lady!" *laugh* (Guard B)

As the two guards left, the merchant drove her carriage toward the largest building. Before the turmoil, it was the best inn, but now it serves as barracks for the soldiers of the Kingdom. The carriage approached the entrance of the stables slowly, as the sun was falling below the horizon.

"Ah! The merchant! It must be nice to loot this town without being branded a criminal!" (Guard C)

"... It was a long day. Will you open the door or what?" (Merchant Novella)

"Well, I have an hard job, merchant. If only I had an incentive..." (Guard C)

"..." (Merchant Novella)

Without saying a word, the merchant handed a Light Coin to the guard who then opened the door with a smile painted on his face, letting the merchant inside and closing the door behind.

--------------------------------

Time: Y1503 / 19th day of the Harvest Moon / Night

The inside of stables was spacious, but the place was a mess. Splinters of wood littered the floor, mixing with the hay. The merchant's horse wounded itself trying to eat some. Good thing the merchant knew some healing magic. Losing her horse would have been a disaster.

The merchant was sitting near a smouldering fire. Se was done eating, and she was in deep thought, looking at the stars. The roof had a large hole in it. Luckily rain was rare this time of the year.

*rustling sounds*

A sound coming from some barrels near the dark corner spooked the merchant. She unsheathed a dagger hidden behind her cowl, and approached the barrels with great caution.

The merchant slowly walked around the barrel.

A small figure of a child could be barely be seen in the dark.

*whisper* "The words." (Inquisitor Novella)

*whisper* "Gloria is warmth. Gloria is light." (Child)

*whisper* "Have you found out something?" (Inquisitor Novella)

*whisper* "Yes. Gloria still has believers in this town. They say dark figures come and go at night from the remains of the temple." (Child)

The merchant was an inquisitor in disguise, given the duty to investigate this fallen town. She reached for a small purse, and gave it to the child.

*whisper* "Deliver a message. The day of reckoning is coming. Be prepared." (Inquisitor Novella)

The child moved a plank on the wall and taking advantage of her small figure, slipped through the small opening. Alone again, the inquisitor grabbed the medallion around her neck, holding it tightly with her hands. She refined some magic threads and activated it.

(Inquisitor Novella)

[Inquisitor Novella reporting in. I have news from Secularia~ (Inquisitor Novella)

Augure

Location: Plains at the root of the Black Mountain Range

Time: Y1503 / 19th day of the Wither Moon / Dawn

POV: Inquisitor Augure

*sunrise* *wake up* (Augure)

The light of the sun kisses my face as I wake up.

Last night I helped the Fourth Unit in their mission. By now they should be safely in Alba, alongside their precious load.

I took a few hours rest since a forced march would leave me sapped of my strength and unable to be of use to Gloria.

My enchanted mantle did its work, hiding me from sight and keeping me warm during the cold night.

It is time I resume my original mission. To Scout Fort Nora.

The abandoned fort is now serving as nest for a great evil. Sinners who dared attempt at the life of the Gifted One. Such blasphemy!

To think there exists people in this world who would try and end the warmth and joy that is sure to follow Gloria's own herald in her wake.

Is it ignorance? It must be.

Truthfully, most of those sinners have already been cleansed by our awe inspiring forces at the Pass of Alba. But some survived and escaped, adding the sins of defector and betrayer, on top of the already black soul they had. Truly disgusting. What meaning can such empty lives possibly have? How can they wake up in the morning and not be ashamed of themselves?

Incomprehensible.

Inquisitor Incubo gleaned their locations from a weak minded survivor.

We shall deliver just punishment and cleanse them of their sins.

*whisper* "May Gloria welcome those sinners in her warm embrace." (Augure)

Time to move. The fort is a long way from here.

Fort Nora

Location: Fort Nora / Plains

Time: Y1503 / 19th day of the Harvest Moon / Dusk

POV: Augure

Fort Nora is in sight. What's left of it at least.

The fort was too valuable to leave in the enemies' hands, but not fortified enough to give the defenders a great enough advantage over the attackers. As a result, it was heavily contested during the war. It changed ownership so many times, suffering more and more damage with each assault and lowering its defensive potential even more. In the end countless lives were wasted on both sides in a doomed effort to hold it.

What lies before me is a pile of rubble and broken walls barely worth being called a fort. Battles here were so costly that the Kingdom eventually decided to leave Fort Nora for good and build a replacement elsewhere. They hope the new fortification will not just be a liability, next time.

(Augure)

Until now I was protected from sight by the sea of grass, but proceeding further like this might be dangerous. I channel a small amount of aether in my mantle. One of the enchantment laid over it activate so that its surface can mimic my surroundings, making me hard to see.

With the favour of the dark I approach Fort Nora. Nest to the remains of Leonora's warband. Taking my time, I silently run from rock to rock, hiding myself behind partially destroyed walls covered in mould, columns that hold no roof and stony remains littering the ground. The grass is overtaking the rubble, and the earth is slowly reclaiming the fortress. Fort Nora current state gives me the perfect cover.

The ruins are spread over a several hundreds of meters of open terrain. It was built on the rising slope of a steep hill. My targets are probably near the core of the fortification.

--------------------------------

I spent half an hour carefully making my way. According to our intel, a couple of rooms are still standing there, along with the dungeons underground. That's where I would stay.

*walks* (Mercenary)

It seems I'm on the right track. A Dark Skin man, is patrolling a path. It seems they cleared some rubble to make a track. He wears a cheap looking leather armor. His chest piece has holes in it. Probably fatal wounds to its previous owner.

The mercenary seems scrawny and not very focused. He walks by without even looking around, letting his torch sways greatly. It's as if there is no will behind his moves.

What a sorry excuse for a night patrol. It's better to have none rather than have one like this. It gives a false sense of security to the inhabitants. Which works for me.

I let him walk by, and proceed in my infiltration.

I pass over some arch, columns and walls. The destruction is less total the more I penetrate inward. It makes my duty somewhat harder, but I'm not worried yet. I have plenty of room to walk. My only concern is not walking on something that can make sounds. I'm especially wary of glass remains.

--------------------------------

Another ten minutes passed. Here, the walls form together in rooms. There are even roofs of higher levels partially standing. Still, there is not a single wall without gaping holes, and not even a single room enclosed by four full walls.

I encountered another patrol as pathetic as the first one. If they are representative of their comrades, I'd say they have significant food shortages.

Uhm... If this is all they have, I alone might be able to make short work of them... No. My duty is to investigate them. Their punishment must be exemplary. A quick death by a powerful spell at the hand of a single unseen inquisitor would be too good for them.

I carry on. Just around the corner, two men are resting inside their sleeping sacks. I'm close. A thick wall stands in front of me. According to the layout I studied, this wall must enclose the inner courtyard of Fort Nora. The access to the dungeons, along with the most structurally sound structures should be around here.

I take a flight of stairs to the second level. There is no roof, and behind me I can make out the scope of the destruction tanks to the height and the moonlight. The wall in front of me go up at least another two levels. There is a convenient opening nearby.

The floor is littered by ruins and garbage. I can make out washed out mosaics in the few openings in the rubble. This must have been the room of the general of the fort.

I approach the opening in the thick wall as I make sure no patrols are walking nearby.

The inner courtyard. A square about ten meters in size. The floor is cracked, but is devoid of debris. They must have cleared them. There is a fire burning inside a makeshift furnace in the centre. Logs acting as benches around it and five tents.

*stare* (Dog)

Damn. I'm downwind because of a breeze. There is a cage with two hounds inside in the far corner of the courtyard. One of them is looking over here.

I made sure to wash myself in a nearby river before approaching and I even used an ointment neutralize my odour. If the hounds notice me still, things could get ugly.

*woof!* *woof!* (Dog)

--------------------------------

*pant* *pant* (Inquisitor Augure)

There. I'm about half an hour from the fort, now. It should be far enough to catch my breath.

*ouch* (Inquisitor Augure)

I wrapped my feet in bandages instead of wearing shoes not to make noises, but because of the rubble, I have several shallow wounds. It's okay. I can treat something on this level on my own. I don't mind leaving scars.

(Inquisitor Augure)

It was a close call. Fortunately the breeze changed directions and the man awakened by the dogs just entered a room and returned with a few bones for them, instead of searching for intruders. The night patrols quickly returned to their routine as well.

It was a bit far and dark, but I think those were horse bones. They must have eaten them. I also saw signs of small plot of lands being cultivated here and there.

My thought is that those deserters were probably the weakest of the bunch. After Leonora's death, they no longer have the guts to fight and pillage Dark Skin villages for food. They are trying to settle here. Some of them were probably former farmers, so they should have the skills for that. The people I saw seemed devoid of any will to live or fight.

I guess seeing the awe inspiring power of the Church of Gloria can do that to a soldier. Still, they must pay for their sins. With my feet back in shape, I grab my amulet, and prepare to give my report.

(Inquisitor Augure)

"Inquisitor Augure reporting in. Presence of sinners inside Fort Nora is~ (Inquisitor Augure)

Negotiations

Location: Victoria / Memorial Square / Underground Tunnels

Time: Y1503 / 19th day of the Wither Moon

POV: High Priestess Amigarde

At the height of the war, a powerful spell destroyed a large portion of Victoria. The Memorial Square was built where the buildings once stood. To remember the fallen.

Beneath that plaza a network of tunnels and chambers was built to shelter people from similar attacks in the future. Neutral grounds were needed, and this place was chosen for today's meeting between us and the representatives of the Royal Family.

With the threat of the armistice with the Principate ending in three years, the Kingdom cannot afford to waste any more resources in infighting. They would if they believed victory to guaranteed, but the existence of the Gifted One would make even a victory too costly.

"Be careful, High Priestess. The roof is lower ahead." (Sister X)

The tunnels are small, dark and cold. Water is dripping from the ceiling, and collect beneath our feet. We walk on a thin layer of mouldy water. I'm afraid I'll catch a cold.

"Halt~ (Inquisitor Kaven)

*blink* (Light)

Sisters were against me coming in person, but with Inquisitor Kaven by my side, I have little to fear.

(Kaven)

Kaven sees the agreed signal and replies.

*blink* (Light)

"We may proceed. Stay close to me, High Priestess. You two, watch our back." (Kaven)

*nod* (Inquisitors Sebra and Gabri)

--------------------------------

Location: Victoria / Memorial Square / Underground Chamber

*open door* "You may proceed inside." (Royal Guard)

It seems they didn't bring the Queen's guard here. Orta couldn't be bothered to come here in person, apparently.

Well, with Liara's Collimating Technique, my magi have a significant advantage. Our inquisitors are holding large tangles of magic threads in their hands. As them are now, they might be able to put up a fair fight against the Queen herself. She must be aware of this by now.

"Welcome, Blessed One. Of course your inquisitors and the joy they bring are welcome us well." *bow* (Minister of Magic)

We enter a large chamber with a low ceiling. Several crystals are shining light from the walls, revealing the depressing mouldy stones covering this chamber.

The first to speak is a well nourished bald man. His lack of hair makes it somewhat hard to guess his age, but I guess he is in his fifties. He wears a green and blue shirt, brown trousers and a green beret. On his chest a signet of black gold bearing the symbol of the Minister of Magic.

He came to me many moons back, when plotting to take Liara from us. He failed when Liara outright refused his offer to become a princess. The look on his face was priceless!

He still likes his snarky remarks it seems and he is still trying to get under my skin.

"Likewise, Minister. I'm glad we could arrange this meeting." (Amigarde)

"Enough flattery. Let's get down to business. We all have other places to be." (Minister of War)

The Minister of War is a large Dark Skin man with short silver hairs. He is about forty years in age. Three parallel scars, like marks of a claw, cross his face. He is blind in one eye but makes no effort to cover what's left of it. He looks menacing to say the least.

Unlike the Minister of Magic, the Minister of War wears unimpressive brown clothes. He carries two long blades inside their hilts on his right side. He is standing with his arms crossed behind his back, confident that we won't dare raise arms against him.

"I agree with you wholeheartedly, Minister of War. The proposal of the church is simple. Let us cease hostilities immediately and cooperate to make the kingdom a safer place." (Amigarde)

A direct approach should be the weak point of the Minister of Magic. I mustn't let him use his silver tongue to weasel his way out of the truth.

"I wasn't aware of any hostilities. Were you, Minister of War?" (Minister of Magic)

"Please. I thought we were getting down to business" *grin* (Amigarde)

"Enough! Priestess, the Kingdom cannot tolerate the strength at the behest of the Church of Gloria any longer. Back then the Kingdom allowed you to form an armed force to defend yourselves and your domains. The size of your current forces far exceed what was conceded to you in that agreement. Scale back your forces. We demand it." (Minister of War)

"High Priestess. Not just Priestess, Minister. And in short you want to take the Gifted One from us, I gather?" (Amigarde)

"We want her dead. The Beast is too powerful. She cannot be allowed to live. Do it, or we will do it ourselves." *glare* (Minister of War)

*sweat* "Minister! Please, excuse him, High Priestess, he didn't~ (Minister of Magic)

My inquisitors are ready to weave magic. But they'll wait my signal. They have clear instructions. Still, the Minister of War sure is brazen. He probably wants this negotiations to fail. He can't stand not having the strongest army, uhu? He wants an all out confrontation.

"If you could kill her, you would have done that already, Minister. Isn't that why you had to shallow your pride and come here? The only thing you can hope to excange with us are words." *grin* (Amigarde)

*unsheathe swords* "You little~" (Minister of War)

(Royal Mage Mercurio Lodesto)

*collapses* (Minister of War)

My gambit worked. I cannot make a negotiation succeed if one the parties involved want them to fail. I forced a situation in which they had to intervene themselves. After all, each faction on the Kingdom side has its own goals. I doubt many wants an all out war against us.

I thought it would have been the Minister of Magic with his silver tongue to defuse the Minister of War's wrath, but it was the third representative they sent to set things right.

A Fair Skin man with long flowing platinum hair and blue eyes. He has a fashionable beard, wears a monocle and an elaborate blue and purple dress. He bears on his heart the signet of an high ranking Royal Mage.

"I apologize on behalf of the Minister of Magic. At times he can be... rash on his decisions." (Mercurio)

The Minister of Magic is as pale as a ghost. I think he just now resumed breathing. My inquisitors stand down as well. It looks like now we can have a meaningful negotiation.

"It's quite alright, Royal Mage. Let's us resume talking. I'm sure nobody wants a civil war as the threat of the Principate looms over our heads." (Amigarde)

"On that, we are in agreement, High Priestess." *bow* (Mercurio)

Royalty

Location: Alba / Courtyard

Time: Y1503 / 19th day of the Wither Moon / Evening

POV: Liara

[Are you sure we should be doing this?] (Bookworm Me)

What do you mean? I'm just peeking from behind a door! That's not forbidden by the teachings of Gloria, isn't it?

[Actually, it probably is. But that's not what I mean. If you ask, I'm sure they'll let you be present when royalty arrives.] (Bookworm Me)

Diplomacy and following protocols sounds like trouble... I'd rather watch from the sidelines.

[You are a little girl. I'm sure they would cut you some slack.] (Bookworm Me)

[Let her be. I'm not big on royalty too, you know? Most are bunch of entitled nobles who didn't have to work one day to earn their position.] (Soldier Me)

[That doesn't sounds so bad if you are one. To think Liara could be Princess right now of only she had said yes, back then. We wouldn't have had duties like we have now.] (Gamer Me)

Oh, that was that too. But I don't regret it. I'm happy here. I have Mother and Meridia and the others. Everything is going well. Plus I don't think I'm made to live the high life. And most of you actually worked. There is no Royal Me.

[That's for the best. He'd teach you how to be spoiled, probably... Not the best skill set. I think included only versions of you that have useful experiences.] (Soldier Me)

[Don't be so dismissive of Royalty. Handling fame and authority is not as easy as you make it to be.] (Doctor Me)

[Also is it really going so well for us? They attempted at our lives how many times now?] (Explorer Me)

[If you think being a princess would make us safer, you are naive. Even in our world influential people needed personal bodyguards. Being Princess might as well make us even more of a target!] (Soldier me)

The gates opened! Be quiet!

Two luxurious carriages with glorious golden details, whirls, and silky banners take their place in the small courtyard. They are drawn by two horses dressed with an elaborate saddle and reins. Their backs are covered by embroiled sheets.

From the first carriage, three women climb down. First, a woman in her mid thirties. She has brown hair and eyes, and wears sober clothes. She announces the other two.

"Gracing us with their presence, First Princess Aurora, and Eighth Princess Sistina." (Tutor Sabrina)

One is a tall girl, younger than Stella. She has long platinum hair and blue eyes. She is really cute! The next one is somewhat older. A short girl with long curvy silver hairs and brown eyes. She walks like she is unsure of what to do. They wear voluminous white dresses with golden details. The cute one wears a golden tiara with a large blue gem.

[The first girl. We saw her a while back. She is the princess who spoke to the people in Victoria and made that firework.] (Bookworm Me)

You are right! I remember her!

[The princess showed greater aptitude than Amigarde. Still, since she doesn't know our collimating technique, Serina might still be stronger then her.] (Doctor me)

[Be careful about what you show her. You are probably like a strategic weapon to the Church as you are ahead of the current technology in the hand of the enemy. The top brass will not like you passing on your advanced magic.] (Soldier Me)

Uhm... that's a good advice. I'll ask Mother later about it. But I don't think we are enemy?

Oh... There are three people from the other carriage as well. Like before a woman in her late thirties announces them.

"Gracing us with his presence, Crown Prince Riccardo. Accompanying him, the Leader of the Prince's Guards, Amerio Yastrade." (Tutor Hanna Ganimede)

One is a young boy, maybe ten years old wearing voluminous black and blue clothes with short brown hairs hidden below an elaborate hat with a long black feather. He was present during the new year celebration as well, but he didn't do anything back then. He looks as smug and spoiled as I'd expected.

The other is a tall and very muscular Fair Skin soldier, about forty years in age I'd say. He looks as imposing as Steffen, and he wears a golden armor not unlike what I have seen in the treasure vault. He has sharp brown eyes and from below his golden helmet I can see strands of black hair. His face looks too clean to belong to a soldier, and he bear no scars. He carries a great sword on his back.

Mother and Mera talk with the Princess, exchanging what feel like empty phrases. Apparently Aurora is ill and Mother will heal her.

[Make sense. Healing seems to be the speciality of the Church of Gloria.] (Doctor Me)

~Liara! I know you are listening! You can come out!" (Serina)

Uh. Oh. I got caught.

[It's fine. She doesn't seem to be angry. Just go there, staying here would only make things worse.] (Doctor Me)

[If you feel too embarassed there is always the nuclear option, you know? Hihihi.] (Gamer Me)

You!!! You can't joke about this kind of things!!!

I open the door, and slowly walk toward Mother.

All eyes are on me. I want to disappear.

"I'm sorry, Mother." *look down* (Liara)

"All is good, my child. Can you lead the young prince to his room? It's the large room in fourth level of second tower." (Serina)

Well, if it's just this much, then there is no problem. I just hope he won't ask unreasonable things of me. I can't exactly teach him my magic, but I also don't want to turn him down in an unpolite way and cause an uproar.

Please, help me out on this one, other Me!

[[You can count on us!]] (All Me)

"Of course, Mother! *turn* *bow* Uhm... greetings, Prince Riccardo. Can you follow me? I'll lead you to your room right away." (Liara)

"I would be my pleasure, Gifted One." (Prince Riccardo)

I'm stunned for a second. The prince gently take my hand and kisses it.

[He is just being polite to a little girl. No worries.] (Bookworm Me)

[I won't say anything...] (Explorer Me)

What?!?

[It's nothing. Just take him to his room.] (Explorer Me)

"... ... Thanks? ..." (Liara)

I turn and head to his chamber.

...

I feel like each second is taking an eternity to pass!

We are walking in total silence. I can feel his glare on my back.

[Calm down. You are overthinking stuffs. There is no reason you should behave differently around him. Just lead the three of them to their room. Don't say or do anything unnecessary.] (Doctor Me)

I hear the prince accelerate his pace, he is now walking by my side. I keep my gaze fixed forward, but I can feel him looking at me.

"You are as beautiful as I was told, Liara. I'm charmed by your presence." (Riccardo)

That's just creepy. I'm three years old, you are ten. And I'm certainly not beautiful, red eyes and everything. And what's about using my name so casually?

[Calm down. Whatever he is after, you just have to generically say thanks and ignore him.] (Doctor Me)

"I'm flattered, Prince Riccardo." (Liara)

I'm at the stairs. Damn! How long until I reach their chambers?!?

"Allow me, Liara. This way I won't get lost." (Riccardo)

... And now he takes my hand.

I swear if he takes any more liberties with me~

[Calm down! It's just an hand!] (Doctor Me)

[I was just kidding when I was suggesting the nuclear option, you know? Don't' go ahead and roast him for real.] (Gamer Me)

Fine.

For a few long seconds we walk the spiral stairs hand in hand. There, this is the level of their chambers. I guess the big one is for the prince. I don't really care if I mix up the chambers for the other two. I'll let the sisters sort this out.

[Someone's salty! Hihihi.] (Gamer Me)

Shut up.

"This is your chamber, Prince. Your chambers are behind those two doors." (Liara)

"The keys?" (Hanna)

"They may be inside. Or not. In case I'm sure a Sister will bring them to you." (Liara)

"..." (Hanna)

[That was cold.] (Gamer Me)

It's their fault for not giving them the keys. I'm a three years old girl, I can't be expected to handle this kind of stuffs. Maybe next time Mera will learn not to send me to guide a spoiled prince.

[Doing the job so badly they'll never ask you to do it again?] (Explorer Me)

"My thanks, Liara. I might not even need sleep, as seeing you lifted up my weary spirit. Will you show me Alba under the moonlight?" (Riccardo)

"Prince Riccardo, you may be fine, but I'm tired. I'm going to sleep." (Liara)

"Of course! How inconsiderate of me not to account for your needs. May you have sweet dreams tonight, Liara. Thanks to you, I'm sure I will." *smile* (Riccardo)

I'm about to puke.

He kisses my hand again before finally leaving it and slowly walks backward toward the door while staring at me.

"Thanks for your guidance. It was a long journey, we will now go to sleep as well." (Hanna)

"Likewise. Farewell."*leave* (Liara)

Finally it's over.

[I think he was courting you.] (Bookworm Me)

You don't say?!?

[Calm down Liara. You can be angry, but not at us. We are trying to help.] (Doctor Me)

... You are right. I'm sorry, other Me.

It's just... I hate it.

What was this all about?

[Who can say. Maybe he just likes you. Or maybe he is trying to get you to his side. Or maybe he has other goals in mind.] (Explorer Me)

That's why I didn't want to deal with royalty.

[Right? They are nothing but a pain in the ass.] (Soldier Me)

[Well, as long as you don't evaporate the Prince in a fit of rage everything will be fine.] (Gamer Me)

I wouldn't do that!