1 – 2

Empress Serkia and Princess Elkianara stood sentinel upon the windswept precipice; their silhouettes etched against the sky. The landing pad, a circular expanse of gleaming durasteel, lay at their feet, perched precariously atop a towering spire that formed the heart of the royal palace Braskumara, rising like an ivory needle, its tip piercing the belly of the indigo sky. This lofty edifice, a testament to the indomitable spirit of Umbralumara, towered above the ancient stonework of the royal palace, its foundations hewn from the very cliff that embraced the city of Lurkibraski'vinumara, catching the breeze from the bay below and the first kiss of the sun's golden rays each morning.

The city itself sprawled beneath them, a tapestry of architectural marvels that wove the threads of time into a cohesive whole. The medieval foundations, remnants of a bygone era, supported soaring industrial towers, which in turn cradled the sleek spires of a more advanced age. The bay, a crescent moon of cerulean brilliance, cradled the city in its embrace, its waters teeming with a myriad of spacecraft that bore the masts and sails of a forgotten past alongside the gleaming hulls of a technological present.

Elkianara stood poised at the edge of the landing platform, her deep hazel eyes fixed upon the expanse of sky that stretched before her. The biting wind whipped at her chestnut curls, but she remained unflinching, her lithe frame silhouetted against the sheer drop of the palace's central spire. Her mother’s presence was a silent reassurance, bolstering Elkianara's resolve. High above the ancient foundations of their royal palace, they awaited the arrival of Ambassador Veridian Thorne and Proctor Thaddeus Reenes. Their attire, a harmonious blend of tradition and technology, reflected the duality of their world: the empress donned an intricate gown of shimmering gold-spun fibers that flowed around her tall figure like molten fire, while the princess wore a more tailored ensemble of deep scarlet, accentuating her youthful curves. Both outfits incorporated subtle enchantments to repel the brisk winds that whipped around them, allowing them to maintain their regal composure. The momentous occasion was etched in the stoic expressions of both women, who wore caution and hope like finely balanced scales on their faces.

"Remember, Elkianara," said Empress Serkia softly, "Diplomacy is as much about what you don't say as what you do."

"Of course, Mother," replied Elkianara, her hazel eyes shifting hues with the ebb and flow of her emotions.

In the distance, a pinprick of light began to grow in the sky, drawing closer at an incalculable speed. The Skystreamer-class diplomatic vessel, heralded by a sonic boom that rents the air and sent nearby pennants flapping, dispelled any remaining doubts. The envoys of the Galactic Council were nigh. The spacecraft shimmered like a diamond as it hurtled through the firmament, its sleek lines and polished hull reminiscent of an interstellar predator.

"Here they come," murmured Elkianara, her heart pounding in her chest.

With a grace that belied its size, the vessel touched down upon the towering landing pad. The air thrummed with power as the engines switched to hover mode, and the ship gently alighted on the energy-infused platform. A final, thunderous exhalation of anti-gravity engines and the Galactic Council vessel settled down on the platform. The sleek ramp extended with hydraulic precision and a hiss, steam venting as the seal was broken. The spacecraft's hatch opened to reveal the imposing figures of Ambassador Veridian Thorne and Proctor Thaddeus Reenes. They stepped onto the landing pad, their confident strides betraying not a hint of hesitation, the rest of the delegation and its associated security personnel following behind. Ambassador Veridian Thorne led the way, his imposing presence and stern visage softened ever so slightly by a diplomatic smile. Behind him, Proctor Thaddeus Reenes followed, his broad shoulders and sharp eyes exuding authority

3-4

"Empress Serkia Valorian," Ambassador Veridian Thorne intoned as he disembarked, spreading both arms in greeting, his eyes sweeping over the pair with unsettling intensity, "and Princess Elkianara, I presume?"

"Welcome to Braskumara, Ambassador Thorne, Proctor Reenes," Empress Serkia said as she inclined her head in a gesture of respect. "We are honored by your presence, and we shall do all within our power to ensure that your stay upon Umbralumara is a most pleasant one."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Thorne replied, his tone smooth and measured, bowing gracefully. "We are most grateful for your hospitality, and we look forward to the discussions that lie ahead. It is our pleasure to visit your beautiful world."

"Indeed," added Proctor Thaddeus Reenes, his deep-set eyes sweeping over the city's skyline, where medieval stonework melded seamlessly with soaring towers. "Your architecture alone is a testament to the harmony of tradition and innovation."

"Braskumara has always been a place where the past and the future coexist," remarked Elkianara, "We strive to honor the legacy of our ancestors while embracing the possibilities of tomorrow."

Proctor Reenes' eyes gleamed as he appraised the young princess. "Well met, Your Highness. I've heard much of your promising talents. I look forward to assessing them myself for inclusion into the Starlight Academy." His voice was crisp and authoritative, but there was an underlying warmth. He seemed oblivious to the political implications of his visit.

Ambassador Thorne offered a polite smile that didn't reach his eyes. "Let's not get ahead of ourselves, Proctor. There are protocols to be observed." Turning to Serkia, he continued smoothly, "Your planet's petition for Council membership remains...under review. But I see no further barriers."

"Politics often muddy clear waters," Proctor Reenes waved away Ambassador Thorne, almost dismissively. "My concern is solely with the purity of talent and capability."

"Of course," Ambassador Thorne said, though his eyes betrayed a hint of amusement. "Yet, politics are an inescapable part of our reality."

Serkia's gaze was inscrutable, choosing to ignore the brief exchange. "Umbralumara values its friends, Ambassador. I trust this will be the beginning of a productive alliance."

Elkianara sensed the subtle power plays at work. Her mother's words carried a veiled warning - they would not be cowed or controlled, while Ambassador Thorne was positioning the Council as magnanimous benefactors. Proctor Reenes seemed oblivious, either by choice or by profession, his excitement palpable. "Shall we begin the tour? I'm most interested in your magical academies, Your Majesty. And perhaps a demonstration..."

Serkia gestured toward the grand arched exit, a sly smile playing at the corners of her mouth. "This way, honored guests. Lurkibraski'vinumara awaits."

“Tell me, Your Highness. I have seen several variations on a name for the capitol, why is this?” Proctor Reenes’ directed his question at Elkianara.

“The original language on Umbralumara had several modes of speech.” Elkianara felt that Reenes must know the answer, the question was probably part of his examination to determine her eligibility for Starlight. It was also very similar to how her tutors and instructors had reinforced lessons, by having her explain back the concept being taught. “You see, sir when a person wanted to…”

Ambassador Thorne and Empress Serkia dropped back a few paces, watching the young girl lead the tall old man down the halls, excitedly detailing what she knew of history, pointing here and there to items set about the palace that were part of that history. It looked not like a Princess showing a foreign dignitary about a palace, but a young granddaughter showing a visiting grandfather about her home. Serkia smiled a little, holding on to that image as hope for her daughters’ time out in the stars away from home, that it would not be so cold and lonely.

Once out of the palace, vehicles took them down to the city, along the most scenic routes, giving the dignitaries a chance to marvel at the merging of architectural styles surrounding them - ancient worked stone fused with smooth metallic spires that knifed into the heavens. Along the winding thoroughfares, open-topped grav cars ferried citizens who paused to gaze at the procession. Winding through the bustling streets of Lurkibraski'vinumara, they observed numerous large freighter spacecraft docked in the bay, their immense weight supported by the water, while pleasure craft and personal vehicles were secured on landing pads scattered throughout the city.

5 – 6

As their tour of Lurkibraski'vinumara continued, Empress Serkia and Ambassador Veridian exchanged pleasantries, their words as polished as the gleaming spires that punctuated the skyline. The group wandered through a bustling marketplace, where excited merchants showcased their exotic wares. One off-world vendor regaled them with animated tales of interstellar travel and rare fruits from distant worlds. Trade to Umbralumara was still being re-established, but the opportunity for an untapped market had not deterred him.

"Empress Serkia," Ambassador Thorne said, his tone casual yet deliberate, "It is good to see trade returning. I understand the attempted coup several decades ago is now fully resolved? With how it impacted Umbralumaras’ first consideration for inclusion in the Galactic Council, it seems prudent to mention it."

Elkianara watched her mother's expression carefully, noting the slight narrowing of her eyes.

"Indeed," Empress Serkia replied, her tone measured. "When our world was first considered for inclusion in the Galactic Council, an uprising threatened to tear us apart. Thankfully, we were able to restore order."

"Will we see the Rhodonite Throne Room? It was there that you, Empress Serkia, quelled the uprising that threatened to tear Umbralumara apart before you ascended the throne. The recordings and broadcast from that day were quite thrilling!" Proctor Reenes's ability to pretend he was not in the middle of a politically charged situation made Elkianara want to giggle. Whispers suggested that off-world interests had instigated the insurrection, hoping to destabilize the world and seize control without granting it a seat on the council. Thorne squinted a glare at Reenes for a brief instance, before schooling his face in an apologetic manner.

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Empress Serkia replied coolly, her gaze fixed on the horizon. "We are resilient, as our city proves. The foundations have stood for over a millennium. The coup attempt was but a minor disruption.”

"Of course," Thorne nodded sagely. "It is no small feat to quell such unrest. Rumors in the Council persist to this day that Umbralumara is too unstable for inclusion.”

"Rumors often run wild in times of uncertainty, Ambassador," Serkia said diplomatically, her eyes meeting his with quiet intensity. "I trust the Galactic Council would never seek to destabilize a world for its own gain."

"Absolutely not, Your Majesty," Veridian agreed, his expression schooled into one of amiable reassurance. "The Galactic Council's ultimate goal is peace and prosperity for all. Of course," Veridian voice seemed to shift a fraction, as though his words seemed to carry a hidden weight. "It's impressive how your world has managed to maintain stability despite such tumultuous events.”

"The issue was internal, and dealt with internally." Empress Serkia asked, her voice steady, but bristling with barely contained indignation. “Unless you wish to imply otherwise?”

"Perish the thought," Veridian replied smoothly. "The Council would never involve itself in such underhanded tactics. I merely meant to commend your resolve in the face of adversity."

Elkianara felt the tension in the air as they continued their tour, the unspoken implications of Veridian's words lingering like a specter over their conversations.

***

That evening, the grand hall of the palace was transformed into a glittering tableau of opulence and elegance for the formal ball. Chandeliers, dripping with crystals that refracted the glow of countless floating orbs, cast prismatic patterns upon the marble floor where the guests twirled and dipped across the polished marble floors. Gowns shimmered in every hue of the spectrum, their delicate fabrics whispering like secrets as the dancers moved to the enchanting strains of music that filled the hall. Her mother held court amidst it all, radiant in her formal attire, yet no amount of finery could mask the tension in her interactions with Ambassador Thorne. Their subtle verbal sparring continued despite the convivial atmosphere.

7 - 8

Elkianara stood on the periphery, her eyes taking in every detail, from the intricate patterns of the silverware to the subtle alliances being forged in hushed conversations. She watched her mother, resplendent in her regal attire, deftly navigate the swirling currents of diplomacy that threatened to engulf her. Her hazel eyes flicked from one group of nobles to another, her mind carefully cataloging the alliances and rivalries unfolding before her.

"Princess Elkianara," Proctor Reenes' voice broke into her observations, his stern demeanor softened by an uncharacteristic hint of enthusiasm. "Your journey to Starlight Academy will be nothing short of transformative. I must say, I am eager to see you at Starlight Academy. Your potential is truly remarkable."

"Thank you, Proctor Reenes," she replied, trying to conceal her excitement behind a small bow. She had enjoyed the evaluation tests Reenes had her perform. A few had hinted at deeper theories than what she had been exposed to, and the inquisitiveness that Elkianara usually kept tight control had nearly bubbled to the surface in giddy excitement of new things to learn and try. "I look forward to learning all that I can."

"At Starlight, you will have access to knowledge and resources beyond your wildest dreams. The galaxy's finest scholars and practitioners of magic gather there to hone their craft. Expect rigorous training," he began, his deep-set brown eyes gleaming with purpose and restrained excitement. "You'll be challenged, stretched beyond your limits. But it is there that you will truly discover your potential."

Their conversation drew the attention of several nearby nobles, their ears pricking up at the mention of Starlight Academy. One, a portly man with a gilded cloak, stepped forward, his expression a blend of curiosity and confidence.

"Testing, you say?" the nobleman interjected. "Surely, Proctor Reenes, our children deserve the same opportunity. Why not assess them.?"

"Yes, indeed!" another noblewoman chimed in; her tone insistent. "Our families have served Umbralumara loyally for generations. It is only fair they receive the same consideration as the Princess."

One of them, a prominent matriarch with an air of entitlement, stepped forward.

"Proctor Reenes," she began, her voice haughty, "Our children also possess great potential. Surely, they too deserve the opportunity to be tested for entry into Starlight Academy?"

"Ah, yes," Proctor Reenes hesitated, glancing across the hall at Ambassador Thorne, who had been observing the exchange from a distance. "Well, it is customary for all children to be screened once a planet has been formally included in the Galactic Council."

"Preposterous!" the portly noble scoffed, his face reddening. "As if our lineage counts for nothing!"

The nobles exchanged glances; their dissatisfaction evident. They pressed closer, demanding preferential treatment for their offspring, their voices growing louder and more insistent.

"Your Majesty," one noble addressed Empress Serkia, who had joined the fray, drawn by the escalating tension. "Surely you see the wisdom in allowing our children the same opportunities as your own?"

"Once Umbralumara has been granted a seat on the Galactic Council, all children will be fairly assessed," Serkia stated firmly, her eyes narrowing. "Until then, we must abide by the established protocols. Princess Elkianara is being considered more as a show of goodwill, and, if accepted, goes to lay the groundwork of impressions to ease the path your children will tread into the stars if they so choose."

There were nods of agreement among some, but also murmurs of dissent. Reenes shrank back, flustered. Sensing an opportunity, Thorne interjected smoothly, ever the opportunist, seeing an opening to further his hidden agenda. He stepped forward, his voice laced with feigned concern.

"Your Majesty, if I may," he interjected, directing his gaze at Elkianara. "While Princess Elkianara's inclusion is certainly a remarkable opportunity for her, one must consider the burden of such a young girl venturing so far from home. Perhaps it would be wise to select another to accompany her, someone who could provide guidance and support during her time at Starlight Academy. Perhaps an already accomplished mage from one of the houses?”

The nobles murmured amongst themselves, weighing the implications of Thorne's suggestion. It would potentially be better to have inroads with the staff at the academy than to simply get their children there first. Reenes nodded in agreement, perhaps envisioning a more experienced mage joining the ranks of Starlight's esteemed faculty.

"The path of duty often requires sacrifice, Ambassador. I am prepared to undertake it, for the good of Umbralumara." Elkianara knew a game was being played with her future, and she was determined to have her on hand in it. Thorne's seemingly empathetic words were designed to sow discord and steer the conversation toward his ends, whatever they were.

"Spoken like a true leader!" Reenes proclaimed. "But, perhaps..." He hesitated, then suggested delicately, "Might Princess Elkianara benefit from a companion? The transition could be challenging for one so young."

Murmurs of approval swept the nobles. Her mother watched Thorne closely, then spoke.

"Very well," Empress Serkia acquiesced, though her expression betrayed her reluctance. "I shall take your counsel under advisement and seek a suitable companion for my daughter."

9 - 10

Thorne's eye twitched almost imperceptibly. He had a crowd and momentum. If Serkia was able to let the subject cool, he wouldn’t get what he needed.

"Oh, of course! The great mage who was instrumental in securing your rule, Your Majesty," he exclaimed with a triumphant smile, “Surely such a distinguished practitioner would be well suited?” Thorne's voice cut through the ambient noise, smooth yet laced with feigned forgetfulness. “Ah, what was his name again? Instrumental in quelling the... unpleasantness during Your Majesty’s rise.” His brow furrowed in an exaggerated show of contemplation. “An extraordinary mage from Umbralumara," he continued, his tone almost wistful. " A true legend, if memory serves."

"Lucian Fairwood," Lord Arken supplied eagerly, his eyes gleaming with opportunistic fervor. “He left court over a decade ago, but his contributions to Umbralumara are still remembered by all.”

Empress Serkia's jaw tightened imperceptibly, a flicker of discomfort crossing her regal features. Elkianara, ever observant, noted the brief lapse and filed it away as another piece of the intricate puzzle she was trying to decipher. Serkia knew that Lucian had always preferred a life away from the spotlight, and yet his name had been thrust back into the limelight once more. Proctor Reenes, on the other hand, displayed no such reservations; his eyes gleamed with excitement at the mention of the legendary mage.

"Yes, Lucian Fairwood," Proctor Reenes echoed, his excitement barely contained. "Such a distinguished individual would be an invaluable addition to Starlight Academy. Your Majesty, might I suggest sending a messenger to request his presence? Perhaps he could accompany Princess Elkianara and even serve as a visiting teacher?"

“Duke Lucian chose to distance himself from this court.” Serkia's gaze flicked around the room, stopping only for a fraction on a few select nobles, some looking away or bowing their heads slightly. “He made it … abundantly clear, that he wishes not to be bothered.” Thorne hid a sneer behind a handkerchief, feigning at dabbing his brow. He was going to need to prod these cowed nobles harder if they were going to get him what he wanted. Then he saw Reenes step forward, maybe he wouldn’t need to make another move.

"Your Majesty, I must insist," Reenes implored. "If it is within your power to send a messenger to Duke Fairwood, perhaps he would consider accompanying Princess Elkianara to Starlight Academy as a mentor and possibly even serve as a visiting teacher."

The room fell silent, all eyes turning towards Empress Serkia. She inhaled deeply, her expression a mask of composed authority. "Very well. I shall send word to Lucian and request his presence.” She replied, her voice steady but tinged with underlying reluctance. “We shall see what comes of it. I will not compel him, Procter Reenes, but I will at least let your request reach him.”

With the matter seemingly settled, the nobles appeared mollified, reassured that their own interest would be served, they dispersed back to their smaller circles of conversation. As the ball drew to a close, Thorne remained outwardly calm but internally exultant that all had gone so well. Better, even, than he had planned. Reenes was giddy at the prospect of meeting Lucian Fairwood and blissfully unaware of the role he had played. Empress Serkia resigned herself to the task of reaching out to her old friend, knowing full well the debt she owed him. Princess Elkianara, though still filled with anticipation for Starlight Academy, now understood the intricate web of power and politics that connected her fate to countless others.

Later that night, as the palace slumbered, Thorne made his way back to the courier ship that had brought the delegation to Umbralumara. Descending into the darkened cargo hold, he opened a secret container concealed within its depths. From the shadows, a team of skilled assassins emerged, their eyes cold and unyielding. They were not fully alive and did not register when ships were scanned. They could be kept in their lockers indefinitely, only deployed when needed.

"A messenger is being dispatched to Lucian Fairwood," Veridian informed them, his voice devoid of emotion. " Extract Lucian Fairwood's location, eliminate the messenger, and then find Lucian. Leave no witnesses."

The assassins nodded silently, accepting their orders without question. They slipped out of the courier vessel and over the side of the landing platform, dropping from the impossible height and disappearing into the air.

***