Chapter 37
A clash of mice, part.2
Arwintar, Baharuth Empire
Antilene found herself surrounded. Assailants from all sides were trying to trap her. She was alone, she was frightened.
Was there no way out, in that hellish place? A devilish bedlam had gathered around her, the air became thin and her breathing felt heavier and heavier with each passing moment. The half-elf would kick away a would-be suitor -not literally, of course- trying to wriggle out of that death grip, only to get another one take his place.
"Queen Antilene, would you do me the honor of this dance?"
"Queen Antilene, give me a chance to show you how the nobles of the Empire enjoy themselves."
"Queen Antilene, listen to none of them and be my lady for this evening."
Not out of vainglory, nor out of any other sense of superiority, but each of those indecent proposals sounded to her ears like a mockery to her detriment, an invitation to disaster where she would be the cause of that ruin.
Was unjustified paranoia the cause of that discomfort? Or had her senses picked up on something in her innermost self that she did not want to admit?
"I find myself forced to refuse," she explained with such candor as to amaze even herself. Empty turns of phrase were avoided in that rhythm that had yet to begin. "It would be unbecoming for me to be seen with those who already have a companion."
The music became slower as the center of the room slowly began to throng with dancing couples. Love, friendship or simple social conventions came together in that mingling of bodies that masked forms, leaving the naked eye only with the sight of a conglomerate of shadows that were lost in echoes of laughter and smiles that concealed something mystical, profound, senseless.
Positions that changed as soon as the eyelashes closed, the darkness that shifted the reality not even giving time to acclimatize to the vivid music that, incessant and deep, melodious but also so chaotic, so deafening as to seem silence, covered the room like a linen veil delicately enveloping a now dead body.
'I have scrutinized what immaculate darkest lies within the bodies of living beings, observed like a diligent scholar the moment when life lets go, to make way for death. But confronted with all this, I cannot remain impassive. Fear woos me as serene zephyrs court the evening.'
For she who had painted heaven and earth of a scarlet red, this should have been a mere formality, a barely imperceptible impact for a mind accustomed to the harshest atrocities of the human soul. Yet, strange as it seemed, in that violence she had seen a hard and pure truth that now seemed far away.
A truth that in that blinding, untruthful light she could not discern now, as the notes slipped gracefully through the pianist's sharp fingers and the violin strings scrambled to try not to give way, as if they were aware that the moment those sounds stopped, the magic would vanish, the dream fade away and all those in the grip of that happy illusion would wake up, caught up in the knowledge that the reverie had come to an abrupt end.
"Please, make way," and here he approached, making his way among those who were his subjects. In a crimson dress, silk so precious that it would be plausible to think it had been woven with real drops of blood to keep the hue as authentic as possible. Violet eyes, amethysts plucked from the vault of heaven by the God Imirduo himself, to give that face carved in pure alabaster a grace that was not of that world. "Queen Antilene, will you allow me to accompany you in this dance? It does not befit a woman of your position and beauty to be alone on such an occasion."
He offered her his hand, in an invitation they both knew it would be too disgraceful to refuse. For positions as theirs required fitting etiquette. Customs stuck to the neck like slimy leeches to suck out any semblance of well-being.
Antilene could not help but notice the paleness of his palms, so devoid of imperfections and pure as to be dazzling. They were as white as her own, but at the same time so different, so foreign.
They were not hands that had taken a life, like hers. They were not hands that had soiled themselves with the filthiest things in the world, breaking bones and butchering flesh, wielding weapons and shattering hopes. They were not hands that had known cramps and fatigue, nor begged for rest and quiet. They were not the hands of a murderer.
"With pleasure," the invitation was accepted, the pact sealed. Fingers brushed against each other to intertwine in an embrace that had the feel of anguished oppression. Was it not unfair that there was such a difference between those who gave terrible orders and those who carried them out? Bloody Emperor sounded like a mocking title at that moment.
'Why do my veins seem to throb so much, while his are so calm?' Antilene could see them moving, in step with the music, in malicious derision. A warning that only she could perceive, that never left her alone. If Jircniv lived with an inner turmoil similar to hers, he was more adept than she at not letting it show. Was vulnerability a familiar concept to him or just an alien knowledge? "You will forgive me if my movements do not match yours. But this is the first time I am exposing myself in such an official and ceremonious context."
'And it is also the first time I have found myself with a partner who decides to entertain me,' she avoided saying. Not out of shame, but only out of a foolish pride that did not desire her to be pitied again.
Show weakness? Why not allow those snakes to bite her while she was at it? The venom of the slanders was already beginning to course through her blood streams.
"I'm sure there will be no need. I myself am a barely sufficient dancer. Certainly not as good as many of the nobles here." A lie whose purpose was placed at a crossroads, from the half-elf's point of view. A sincere desire for comfort in a vulnerable moment? Or a malicious insinuation intended to humiliate her once her ineptitude was shown? "Follow in my footsteps and the fun will be guaranteed." Something sure, as sure as Surshana.
"I will try to trust your words." But if Antilene could imagine the scythe, the same could not be said of the reaper. "So that my fall will be even more ironic, the moment it occurs." Because it would occur, she would put her hand on it.
Jircniv replied with a cheeky grin, his nose wrinkling in annoyance at that remark. "If it happens, I'll be here ready to catch you." With those slender arms, he couldn't even lift a flower, let alone her. A comment that was better left unsaid.
Her heels clacked on the floor with the cadence of solemn murmured strains of a prayer raised to heaven in time of dire need, ominous drops that promised a new symphony. The other guests assumed seraphic faces, posing as angels ready to take up those invocations, and grant these wishes born from anguish. However, in Antilene's unjust judgment, behind all this apparent hospitality a shadow of hypocrisy lurked there. Rotten demons using misguiding light to hide their wickedness, their rancor, their impurity. Nor even Alah Alaf's blessing could touch that God's Forgotten palace.
They arrived at the heart of the hall, for any other position would have been unthinkable, indeed, inconceivable for the Emperor of Baharuth and his new host. Put yourself above everyone, and the inferior will accept your position, unable to contemplate a different world.
And it seemed to the half-elf that she was on a stage built especially for her. She had the impression that the illumination was writhing, focusing its cold heat only on them, making her rise to an unwanted limelight.
Jircniv's breath was so close it could almost be touched, as it was something solid on the verge of making contact with her. They began to move, while the music continued incessantly.
"So, Queen Antilene, what do you say so far about this reception? Was it to your taste?" Unsteady, rapid steps, symbols of an off-key rhythm. Inelegant and awkward, harmony doomed to eternal damnation. "What you saw tonight was only a small part of the elite of Baharuth and the surrounding kingdoms. Small, but significant. You should have been able to get an idea of the abilities of each of those present."
The flow became more uncertain. She nearly crushed the Emperor's foot under her heels. Amusing as it was, it would not have been the best debut in society.
"There are many people I have not yet been able to meet. If His Imperial Majesty will allow me a rash comment, the political skills and ability to disentangle oneself in the high society of the other guests are far superior to those in my possession." One step to the right and then one to the left. She repeated that simple movement, a number that soon proved annoying to calculate.
The normality with which Jircniv managed not to get lost in that ordeal irritated her, but the realization that that difference had been dictated by upbringings imparted far too differently was a consolation. If that young man with far too much blond hair had been thrown into the middle of a fight, how would he have reacted? "There are still many things I have to learn, for my ignorance knows no bounds. Knowing how to draw a sword is not the same as being able to administer with efficiency and impartiality. But I am sure you are more aware of that than I am."
"You should stop underestimating yourself," for the first time, Jircniv sounded sincere. Even sympathetic. "Your abilities are not beneath any of those present, myself included."
A turn just as the noise took a pause. Eager eyes followed those almost childlike somersaults. A haze of indistinguishable gazes that did not cease with their understated comments.
'Lose yourself in the music the moment it belongs to you.' Rufus' words were repeated like a mantra in her mind, giving her confidence. Now there was only her and Jircniv in that place. The perceived laughter had disappeared, replaced by a much more welcome melody. As the flames of the Goddess Lagusa extinguished evil, a new found ardor inflamed her soul.
"I am amazed that you did not use this opportunity to denigrate your guests. I thought the purpose of this evening was to convince me to accept your proposal." Antilene calibrated the strength of her grip, taking care not to break his bones. The steps continued to be out of time, but it didn't matter. She continued to be watched and judged, but it didn't matter. Every fear slipped over her body like clear water over the precious robes of the Goddess Egarda. "Or are you using a new strategy to get me on your side?"
"Your negative opinion of me is completely unjustified," but not entirely without reason. In a split second faster than a breath of wind, the half-elf could almost swear she glimpsed a fragility concealed behind that mountain of confidence. "The collaborators I surround myself with are trusted people. The nobles who are here today to make your acquaintance would not be in this place were it not for their proven abilities. There is no room for incompetents in my design."
"So those who are incompetent should be thrown away and placed in the rubbish?" An argument that seemed tailor-made to the young emperor's skin. "A perhaps all too utopian design, don't you think?"
"Only those who find themselves in leadership positions," Jircniv led her back, tracing a left diagonal with her. Back straight and elbows firmly pointed, into a new battle. Unresting winds massaged her entire being. Antilene transmuted in Nekole, ready to slay the dragon of legend. "Those who have been blessed by the Gods..."
"... Have a moral imperative to bear the benefits from the gifts bestowed upon them." A lesson she had made her own since she was a naive child. This was the only way to reach the coveted Paradise, after all. "The weak suffer the yoke of the strong. But if the strong decided to break this cycle, would a new cycle be possible?"
There was an image of a tree, from whose branches a fruit sprang. Faine, and the Theocracy with her, used to believe that this was happiness wrested from men, detached from their world until the Gods decided to put an end to their miseries, in an endless series in which the beginning and the end could not be discerned.
"Force is a tool, not the end, isn't it? My theological studies are deficient, but this simple concept is familiar to me," Antilene doubted that he was really that uninformed about doctrine. Even though the religion of the Four Gods differed from the cult of the Six, there were still remarkable similarities. "A world in which the goal has been achieved would be ideal, don't you think so?"
"Maybe, but then that would make people like me obsolete. For those who have only known war, peace can sound like torture," she retorted, though not quite convinced. She had once fulfilled her destiny and found herself with a handful of flies in her hands. Once more she would fulfill it, and what would she get? "Conflict is part of our history, and part of our lives. Only when the Gods will sound the sacred shofar could we say goodbye to our sorrows. Until then we should continue to grit our teeth and move on."
"Maybe so. But even the Gods need a push now and then. The birth of a strong new human nation could be an omen to their new coming. Together, anything would be possible." So near, yet so far. Jircniv's eyes did not look at her, or anyone else nearby. They were lost in a distant future, which only to him appeared clear and precise. "I know I am being pedantic, but I find myself compelled to propose my offer for one last time. When can I know your answer?"
"At the end of everything. It is always at the end that we get the answers." They broke off. The music began to stop. The dancing ceased. "Haste is bad advice."
"I'll wait with trepidation then. I am serious when I tell you that I hope you will enjoy the rest of the evening." It didn't sound like a lie. For all his faults, Jircniv was still capable of being amicable and pleasing.
"The same goes for me," Antilene replied in earnest.
The Emperor nodded as he watched her walk away. As his image was lost in the crowd, the half-elf walked towards her sister, who had remained aloof until that moment.
"How did the dancing go?" Agravaine asked her, intent on sipping a glass of wine. When they were close, the elf adjusted Antilene's mussed hair as a result of those imprecise movements. "I don't think you looked very good in the middle there, though you recovered in the final part. You certainly don't control the dance floor like you control the battlefield."
'Her touch is harder compared to Nazaire's soft one,' Antilene reflected, as the older woman's fingers returned the ponytail to its original shape. 'But that doesn't make it any less pleasant. On the contrary, it is as warm as my old mother's.' Thinking back to the old nanny was for once not only a mixture of sorrow and joy. There was a happiness in those memories that now came flooding back, of which not even the half-elf was entirely aware.
"The important thing is that I had fun. Not that I could have asked for better. It's enough to have survived after this feat. Only once have I risked my safety so much." An answer with an aftertaste of sarcasm. A hyperbole intended to overcome embarrassment. ""Didn't you get bored of being a wallflower all by yourself instead?"
"Watching our great Queen perform in such an entertaining show was something that could never have brought me boredom. I can't wait to brag about my good fortune with Etienne and Melody. They will be ecstatic." Antilene ignored that last part, hoping it was just a playful joke. "Besides, with all the attention focused on you, no one had the nerve to invite me to dance, except for that old partner of yours covered in tattoos. An offer I promptly declined, of course."
Had it not been for those long ears that, unlike her, towered as a symbol of pride on the elf's face, things would have turned out quite differently, Antilene considered.
"Poor Edgar. That must not have been pleasant," was what she said instead. Not that she was really sorry for the rejection Divine Chain had suffered. The matters of the heart of the Black Scripture members were best left alone, in most cases. "By the way, where are the other members of the Theocracy?" Since they were there, it would have been improper not to even offer them a greeting. Not after all the Cardinals had done for her.
"Just over there. At the far right corner of the buffet." Agravaine pointed in their direction as she escorted her towards them. It was hard to remember but, technically, her sister also acted as her bodyguard and champion in defense of her honor. Not that she really needed it, of course. "They were on the sidelines a lot of the time. Almost as if they were the bogeyman of the evening."
'Understandable. There are three men who have entered the realm of heroes and a former member of the Holocaust Scriptures. The pressure they are exerting by their mere presence must have stirred anyone who can understand a modicum of the danger they pose.'
"Cardinal Raymond. Cardinal Berenice. It is good to see you after such a short time." In any case, Antilene was happy to see that they were at ease. Raymond and Berenice chatted amiably, exchanging information about the other guests, while Samson was on the lookout for someone who might question his title of Strongest Human. Only Edgar had a dejected expression, but he was still trying to maintain his bodyguard professionalism.
"Oh Queen Antilene, I find you in really good shape!" Berenice greeted her with a hug overflowing with affection. The half-elf failed to reciprocate with as much fervor, but the tenderness of her touch was no less. "To see our little one leave everyone breathless was amazing. In truth, I wasn't sure about this choice of putting you in front of all these people but, worries aside, you made a better impression than I could ever have imagined."
"Although it's always good to remember that caution is never too much," Raymond could at first glance look colder. Yet those concerns of his were by far the most cordial salute he could give, no less warm than that of his fellow companion. "Nevertheless, I agree with what Berenice said. You are a lovely sight, Queen Antilene."
"I thank you from the bottom of my heart," a prickle in her cheek was curbed by a light touch of her index finger. Embarrassment was a small price to pay for that merry reunion. "It's been such a short time, but I miss you a lot already. Don't worry about me. I am able to take care of myself, also thanks to your wise advice I have received over the years."
"We are glad to hear that," they replied in unison, both in a parental tone. "Honestly, we also wanted to see more clearly what the situation is among our neighbors. There is never an abundance of information, after all." Raymond continued, receiving a nod of assent from Berenice. "But so far we haven't been able to get much out of it. There is an unexpected calm in this part of the continent lately. The last few years have seen a few shifts in the classic geopolitical set-up..."
"And that worries you," Antilene concluded for him. The barely-there smile of the Earth Cardinal was confirmation enough. "For those who know no rest, the moment of quiet seems a bad omen."
"We only fear that something is happening beyond our control," Berenice commented, adjusting the hem of her robe. The woman's brow arched into a frown as her tone was busy becoming concerned. "Knowing how to relax is also an important task, so as not to descend into unwarranted concerns. But for one who has been trained from youth to see danger at every turn, it is difficult at times to display the required mental flexibility. Especially when old age becomes more and more insistent."
"You are still young, Cardinal." That consolation coming out of her mouth sounded more like derision than an attempt at comfort. Antilene bit her tongue immediately after noticing how inappropriate her clumsy outburst was, although the woman displayed no offense in what she had heard. "You would not disfigure among the members of the Scriptures. That goes for both of you."
Agravaine remained strangely quiet, after the last remark. 'Scriptures' was for sure still a word that caused distress in her.
"Only a few years ago I would have agreed with you, but today I am not so sure," Raymond replied, placing his attention on his still muscular and vital arms. "As much as I would not be reluctant to face danger again, should the opportunity arise, I am much more comfortable behind the lines directing the various operations. A desk job is certainly more tedious, but no less important. Although some would not be so inclined to share this opinion."
"Humpf, you were always a guy who was more used to giving orders and acting in the shadows compared to someone like me." Feeling called upon, Strongest Human tucked his old comrade and current superior. In formal dress, the old Black Scripture veteran looked even more imposing. Yet the absence of the many scars he used to sport as medals, hidden beneath all that fabric, gave him an unusual gentle and less threatening air. "Not that I'm complaining about it. I've lost count of how many times your guidance and advice has been invaluable during our missions. Ahhh, to fight by your side once more would truly be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I pray every day to the great Imirduo for that chance! Just as I pray for another fight with you in the future, Queen Antilene."
"Good, keep praying. So the chances of me having to challenge her again will fade," interjected Divine Chain annoyed. Unlike his nearby companion, Edgar looked rather bizarre in that formal dress. With all those tattoos on his face, the contrast was quite peculiar. "Not that I believe there will ever be an opportunity to challenge you to a duel, Lady Antilene," he hastened to clarify. At least that heartbreak didn't seem to have affected him all that much, ignoring the constant dreamy glances he kept throwing at the elf. He would soon get over it, in any case. Maybe.
"If you feel like it, you can always try. Truth be told, it's been a while since I've clashed with a worthy opponent." The half-elf made her fingers crinkle, at the same time offering a smile of encouragement as a gift to her old comrade. The effect was better than hoped for judging by the overly jovial expression with which he returned it. "You're sweating. Are you hot in that dress?" She noticed that he had many drops of sweat beginning to trickle down his forehead, wetting his eyes that were just opening in surprise.
"Nono, I was just worried that a possible new confrontation with me might be inconvenient with a woman in your position, Lady Antilene." He took a sip of water to calm himself, while Samson looked at him with disappointment. "And besides, after the last beating you gave me, I am not foolish enough to try again. My legs are still trembling at the very thought."
A laugh escaped the half-elf. "Indeed that time you showed me how flexible a man's body could be, and for that I thank you," though judging by the others' reactions it was not to be a particularly amusing topic. "In any case," the situation had to be brought back under her control, so she tried to deflect the conversation as skillfully as an expert illusionist beguiles his audience. "The most amusing recruitment test was certainly that of Samson here. 'Finally, a worthy opponent! My limit is still far away!' His last words before collapsing to the ground. Perhaps the first, and at this point probably the last, person to finish my special training session with a smile."
A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.
"And to this day I am grateful for the tiny fraction of your strength that you have given me the privilege of showing me," replied the huge man, who would not have been disfigured by the side of a mountain range. A grin of satisfaction framed that old but not dejected face. "The inspiration that skirmish gave me is a precious treasure that I carry with me like the most precious of presents."
Antilene raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised by that comment. "Glad to hear you say that." Was that the joy of defeat some used to speak of? A realization that one's limits were still far away and that improvement was not an impossible challenge. Techniques that could be honed and experience that could only be gained from something so common. For a moment the half-elf found herself envying Samson for being able to obtain a so valuable gift from such a mundane event.
"Tell me, have any of the knights here caught your attention?" She asked intrigued, exchanging a look of complicity with him.
"Of those present, there are three people who have piqued my interest." An answer that failed to contain his enthusiasm. The same kind of happiness a child would have found in a candy shop. "The first is the knight accompanying the Queen of the Draconic Kingdom."
And he pointed with those giant fingers of his at a man familiar to the half-elf, intent on exchanging hushed whispers with Queen Draudillon.
"Sir Stronoff?" Indeed, recalling the encounter just now, he had made a very good impression on Antilene. "We had the pleasure of meeting him just now. He gave me the idea of an honest man."
"A bold man no doubt. Perhaps too much so." Agravaine broke the vow of silence she had made to finally concede words. The elf rubbed her eyes, as if struck by unexpected drowsiness. She sipped some sparkling wine to recover from her weariness, before continuing. "The severity with which he handled himself was typical of soldiers, I imagine. And to be the trusted guard of a Queen he must have acquired great skills and fame."
"He is a capable fighter. In fact, he distinguished himself in various endeavors in the Draconic Kingdom, especially during a massive Demi-human incursion. Captain Nigun has praised his merits several times in his reports." Raymond paused, intent on wondering whether more should be added. That he was aware of some additional detail?
Berenice finished for him. "But still, I doubt he's a match for you, Strongest Human. Or to that of any other member of the Black Scriptures."
"I'm sure it would still be interesting to face him!" Samson retorted with enthusiasm. "Victory is not the only reason for a great fight."
"Who are the other two?" At that point, Antilene's curiosity had been piqued. The half-elf tried to pay more attention to her surroundings, recognizing that she had been quite superficial in her search for information up to that point. After all, she had lent herself to that event so far from her taste for a specific reason. "I am interested to hear your opinion."
"Surely the leader of the paladins of the Holy Kingdom is a woman worth considering. She is located right there, next to Queen Calca." Antilene's attention was caught by a pair of women. One with long blond hair and angelic features and the other with a helmet of brown hair that framed her face as solemnly as a military helmet. Judging by the sword she carried, it was easy to determine that it was the latter who was the object of the Black Scripture member's interest. "I am sure their excellencies the Cardinals are better acquainted with her reputation than I am."
"Remedios Custodio. One of the most powerful paladins in the region and wearer of the holy sword Safarlisia. If what has been reported by the Windflower Scriptures is true, this is a woman who would not disfigure in the Black Scriptures." Raymond placed great emphasis on that last statement, pointing out how extraordinary she was. "Just a few months ago she killed a demi-human of infamy known as Demon Claw. Surely we are talking about a person worthy of great respect."
"I see," nodded the half-elf, surely intrigued. "And the third person?"
"I have no idea who that is," huffed Samson, evidently disappointed. He shrugged, relaxing his muscles from the accumulated tension. "But just now I saw an imposing knight with long black hair. I did not recognise her or the other woman she was accompanying. But I was inevitably intrigued by the dark sword she was carrying."
The sword seemed to be the weapon of choice among the various champions there. 'How would they react if I showed them Charon's Guidance?' Antilene hushed that foolish thought, letting her old friend rest in the infinite pocket Rufus had given her before leaving.
"May it be the famous Black Knight of the City-State Union?" Berenice ventured, not entirely sure of that hypothesis. "The weapon Strongest Human noticed might be the legendary Crocdabal, one of the four swords of the eponymous hero of the Thirteen."
"If that were to be true, it might be beneficial to make contact. But our relations are not the best with the Karnassus Alliance." Weariness began to appear on the Earth Cardinal's face, making him age by years in only a few minutes. Was there ever an end to the worries of a man in his position? "Maybe it's for the best. Letting a human have such influence in a land where other races also thrive could be beneficial in the long run. Following her example, other human heroes might spring up there, strengthening our position."
But was that really the case? To Antilene it seemed an overly optimistic prediction. On the other hand, she understood Raymond's point of view. Their limited resources made it difficult for them to expand their influence across all cardinal points. Sometimes, leaving things as they were and praying for the best outcome was the only alternative.
"Don't you think it's time to go?" Agravaine whispered in her ear. It was natural that her sister felt uncomfortable in that situation.
"You are right," Antilene replied in the same tone. "Cardinal Raymond, Cardinal Berenice. Samson. Edgar. It was a pleasure to meet you again. But it would be unseemly if I stayed in one place for the rest of the evening. Please forgive me." She bowed slightly as she prepared to throw herself back into the crowd of people.
The Theocracy delegation understood perfectly. "Don't let others spoil your mood." Berenice told her before they took their leave, bringing her lips together in a warm smile. "May the Gods bless you."
"I won't. Thank you for everything. I hope to see you again in the future."
"That's a promise."
----------------------------------------
Antilene was beginning to find her own pace. Managing to exchange polite signs with the noblewomen and laughing amiably at the nobles' jokes, exerting a charm she didn't even know was with her.
The topics discussed were the most varied. They went from mundane interactions to unpleasant proposals.
"Please tell me more about your children, Marquise Isabelle. I could stay and listen to you talk for hours about the interesting accomplishments of which your son is distinguished. A marriage offer? No, I could never live up to it. A man capable of exterminating four goblins all by himself deserves a lady who is his equal! I would only put a stop to the glory that awaits him!"
Of course, not every conversation turned out to be particularly interesting.
"Ah, the farming techniques introduced into your fief are indeed cutting-edge, Count Vettias. The cultivation of spelt is undoubtedly a fascinating topic that deserves to be investigated. If my ignorance did not reach such peaks I would be more than grateful to offer you my ear. Why don't you discuss it with the Cardinals of the Theocracy? Your discoveries could be a great help to the cause of humanity."
While others were... distinctly unique.
"Does my dress take your breath away, Baroness Luciana? They are just old rags, especially compared to the elegance and refinement of yours. I beg your pardon? A private meeting just the two of us? I am forced to decline. It would be disgraceful if I were to leave for too long. But I have reason to believe that the young Duchess Ferden would be more interested in your company. Just be careful not to attract her husband's attention. He is old and flabby, but still has the eyesight of a hawk."
All in all, she fared better than she could ever have expected.
"How is it going?" Agravaine handed her a sip of coffee served in a fine porcelain cup. By now the evening was coming to an end and the room was gradually beginning to empty. "I could swear you're faring better than you did at the beginning. An extraordinary ability to adapt!"
Antilene crinkled her eyes in exhaustion. "I can't wait for this to be over. Alah Alaf must have bestowed his protection on me if I have been able to navigate my way through this infernal mess. I cannot conceive that there are some people who are in their element in these empty arguments and false compliments." She sipped noisily at the drink she was offered, not even noticing the high temperature. Not even close to recovering from her exhaustion, the half-elf snorted as if to expel a poison that was burning her throat. "And why is everyone so fixated on marriage offers? Is it inconceivable to these people that a woman of my age is not promised to anyone?"
"Have you received any interesting ones?" Agravaine sneered at her with little conviction, letting that snicker get lost in the placid air.
"Why tell you what you already know?" The half-elf avoided mentioning that the most interesting offer featured the future Minister of Economy. Or at least that was what his parents claimed. Certainly favorable future prospects for a 12-year-old boy. "Politics is all about endless talk without anything ever actually being said. You can never discern what your opponents want to say, although it is easy to imagine. I prefer the huddle of a real battle to whatever this is."
"As Queen, however, you should be well aware that this will be neither the first nor the last time you will have to deal with the art of government." Rebutted her sister, in a vain observation. "Do you already have an idea of what to do after this is over? Why..." And there she stopped.
'Why don't you go home? To Evasha?' Concluded Antilene for her in her mind. But she avoided voicing those thoughts. "I don't know yet," was instead her reply. "I'll keep traveling, I guess." 'North, south. The world is my oyster, after all.' To where? It did not matter. "You can follow me, if you like." She did not beg her to stay. 'What is the point?' "I would be pleased if you did." In truth, it would have made her incredibly happy, but she avoided continuing further. "There is still so much to see." 'And I did so little.' Even if they were eventually going to separate, why rush it?
The elf remained silent. An "Alright," after a time that seemed incalculable. "I will follow you to the end of the world." That was not what she was asking of her. She would never ask that of anyone. "Sisters. Together." A smile that had a bitter aftertaste. Was this what Agravaine really wanted?
"Together." She didn't have the courage to voice her heart. Antilene smothered that tumult with a firm swipe.
"So you would be the KingSlayer everyone is talking about." A voice determined and imperious broke that strange peace. "Frankly, I'm not impressed."
A man bursting with pride and boastfulness from every pore intruded as gently as a rabid dog between them. Short blond hair and a frizzy beard completed an expression that seemed oblivious to the meaning of friendliness.
"And you would be?" Antilene masked the crackling irritation with good manners. "I don't think anyone has done us the courtesy of introducing ourselves." The muscles of his face remained impassive, trying not to let out even the slightest hint of weakness.
"I'm not surprised. The servants in this cheap tavern called palace are rather lacking. Not that I find it so astonishing, given the Emperor's paucity of good taste and lack of refinement." From the pompous and so ostentatiously glittering clothes he wore, it was hard to tell whether his was lack of awareness or envy dictated by a petty sense of inferiority. "Barbro Andrean Ield Ryle Vaiself, heir to the throne of the Re-Estize Kingdom." A severed exclamation. A tone that made every effort to appear authoritative, but which to the half-elf seemed only foolishly childish.
"Pleased to make your acquaintance. Antilene Heran Fouche," and her hand was offered, in expectation of a reciprocal gesture. "The pleasure is all yours." She obtained only a squeeze that tried in vain to be vigorous. The half-elf did not want to be outdone and, when their palms clasped, applied a little more pressure than she had done so far. In first response, the frizzy mustache frowned in an ungainly movement of hair and, still soiled with ale, began to drip a mixture of alcohol and sweat, while at the same time that oval-headed head twitched with a disjointed motion. Barbro suddenly withdrew his hand, taking care not to let the obvious discomfort that had taken hold of him show.
Antilene had to summon all her energy not to let the hilarity erupt at that precise moment like a volcano that had slumbered for centuries and decided to wake up one day to show all its might.
"A vigorous squeeze. For a woman, at least. Obviously, nothing special." What a tasteless lie. Not even his beer-smelling breath could cover that arrogant pitch. Then again, if he thought he could divert her attention from the small massages performed on the back of his hand, he was dumber than he appeared.
The more that foolish prince flaunted that image of a powerful and proud man, the more he appeared to the half-elf as a buffoon that someone had dressed up in luxurious clothes for a greasy laugh. Had Jircniv sent him to convince her of the goodness of his thesis? "Perhaps the stories that were told about you were not so untrue. Exaggerated, for sure. But a kernel of truth must be there. Killing a couple of opponents might not have been entirely unreasonable. Too many idiots think it's enough to wield a cheap sword to be able to flaunt the title of knight."
Proper manners were a remote invention, which was why many tended to forget about them. Antilene's memory, luckily, was not lacking on that particular subject.
"Oh, it must have been two at most. Maybe three. It's hard for a stupid woman like me to remember such past events. Too many cups of tea have been drunk since that time." A laugh that was far too high to appear sincere. She instantly regretted that decision so unlike her. Agravaine's eyes widened as she tried to put the words together, to no avail. Even the elf was stunned by the apparent weirdness of the whole situation. "None of them, however, would have been even remotely comparable to you, Lord Barbro. One glance is enough to understand the enormous difference with the other knights in the room."
'For the worse.' She avoided adding that detail.
That farcical act would not have fooled even a child. "Well said. Perhaps you are not as incompetent as I first deemed you to be." Evidently, however, Barbro was not a child. "I do hope you are aware that aligning your interests with Jircniv would prove to be a completely wrong move." He cast a glance of superiority at the Emperor of Baharuth, intent on conversing with a couple of diners, being ignored for a long minute and getting a lovely nothing as a result. The prince puffed smoke from his nostrils before continuing as if nothing had happened. "Soon these lands will be under my control. And I will remember those who have shown friendship towards me. Enemies on the other hand... it would not be elegant to explain this to a lady. Every great king knows how to deal with his own subjects. Those who serve me faithfully will obtain a rich reward."
"Excuse my ignorance. Yet I thought that currently the war with the Empire was not going well for Re-Estize. You couldn't find a moment's respite just because the Emperor decided to temporarily suspend hostilities?" Barbro's conviction of what he had just uttered was worthy of in-depth investigation. Perhaps there was a secret weapon that would reverse the course of that conflict. If so, it would have been better to report it to the Cardinals as soon as possible, so that they could take the necessary measures.
"Humpfh, ridiculous." The prince snorted boredly. A haughty tone that did not conceive the existence of that question. "What our army lacks is only a great leader capable of leading our superior might and numbers to victory. If the last battles have resulted in nothing, it is solely due to the inability of our generals and soldiers." The latter was certainly no small detail, Antilene found herself thinking. But she wanted to hear with her own ears where the man was going with this. "Once I inherit the throne, and that will be very soon, all that will change." Barbro clenched his fists, already foretasting the sweet taste of triumph. "It will only take me a few months at most to create a great army and to make total defeat known to our dear host. Under my command even the most straggling band of peasants is transformed into a lethal platoon."
"..." Antilene remained speechless. And Agravaine with her. In truth, both of them were far too shocked to even entertain any thoughts.
"One of the first things I will do will be to renovate the decor of this dump. No, there's no need to look at me like that. I know what you're thinking. But when I will become absolute ruler there will be room for you too... in my kingdom."
That stupidity had to be just a charade. It was impossible that someone so... idiotic could exist. A tactic to get her to let her guard down?
Antilene observed Barbro again. The confidence with which he believed he was in control was not the result of a ruse, but rather the outcome of his perception of the reality around him. Fascinating, in a way.
"You are far too kind. I look forward to contemplating you in the position a man of your caliber deserves." No reason to waste time on nonsense like that. "Take away my curiosity. Why did you accept the Emperor's invitation if your relations with him are not the best?"
"It was our father who imposed it on us." The answer came from a different voice. Sweet and gentle as honey, it came from a graceful maiden, who approached with such delicacy of footsteps that she gave the impression of gliding gently through the air, the ground too dirty for a beauty as exquisite as hers. As soon as the young woman was only a few steps away, blue eyes as dark as the deep abyss of the sea settled slowly, with scrutinizing calmness, on the half-elf. "Pardon my intrusion. I am the third princess of the Kingdom of Re-Estize, Renner Theiere Chardelon Ryle Vaiself. Enchanted to make your acquaintance." The hems of the indigo-blue dress she wore were grasped and then lifted with a firm touch that did not sacrifice refinement for speed in a curtsy that had the flavor of homage.
"That decrepit old man still believes peace is possible. Foolishness," Barbro spat bile, as he hurled lightning bolts and thunderbolts with his gaze on his sister. "And do you know whose fault it is? Yours. An inept whose only merit is having a pretty face, yet you couldn't even seduce that debauched Emperor. Hey, you!" He drew the attention of one of the waiters who were still walking around the room, snapping his fingers violently. "Bring me another glass of beer. And don't waste your time."
Agravaine seemed about to explode in a burst of rage, but Antilene stopped her before she could do anything stupid. "It is not our business to settle the internal affairs of other nations," she whispered in her ear. Seeing the heir to the throne of Re-Estize with her own eyes, the half-elf came to see what reasons the Cardinals had for favoring an integration with the Baharuth Empire under the hegemony of Jircniv.
"Lord Barbro, if you would permit..." a timid voice rose in unexpected courage, coming from the knight accompanying Princess Renner. Had it not been for the gleaming armor he wore, that young boy who certainly still had all his baby teeth would not have been out of place among the rest of the servants.
"Climb, there's no need to fret." Renner stopped him, raising her voice just enough to be barely audible. "My brother the Prince was absolutely correct in his statement. My incompetence undoubtedly deserves to be an object of scorn. It is with great regret that my heart continues to beat, knowing that I have failed my own flesh and blood. A disgrace that can hardly be made good." The young knight lowered his head, more out of embarrassment than sincere repentance, as he struggled to sustain the penetrating gaze of his lady. "My talents are mediocre, for they do not come as I was not fortunate as my brother here. Do you not also find, Queen Antilene, that a great leader like him is only born whenever the moon covers the sun?"
"Well... I don't know how to answer that," the half-elf found herself taken aback by that unexpected question. Drawn into what appeared to be a sibling clash, she found herself displaced. "Absolutely," a barely discernible conviction, a better result would not have been possible. "A future king who will surely bring great changes." How would have Barbro responded?
"Humpfh, I don't have time to waste on this nonsense. Queen Antilene, think better of my words. If we should meet again, you will do well to give me an answer." And with the same impetuosity with which he had entered the scene he left, much to her relief.
"My brother can show a strong personality, don't you think, Queen Antilene?" Renner frowned, without losing that natural smile that never seemed to leave her.
"Surely his self-image is particularly favorable." Agravaine answered for her, watching the prince walk away. "How does a body walk with all that air in it? Shouldn't the pressure make him explode like a balloon?"
"If only it were you, Princess Renner, who was designated as heir to the throne and not that bloated man, there might still be hope for the Kingdom of Re-Estize." Climb spoke softly, but with just enough fervor to externalize his frustrations.
"That's enough Climb! I know your esteem for me is high, and for that I will always be grateful, but do not try to repeat what you just said in front of one of my brothers or an ally of theirs." Firm but understanding, Renner glowed with the same radiance as a thousand suns. The young knight was entranced by that beauty, the irises on his face pleading a hymn of admiration and devotion. "I am not as special as you think. It is only with the help of devoted people like you that I am able to get by."
The young girl's expression darkened, remaining resolutely charming in that sadness. Renner and Climb carved out a space just for the two of them, where the rest of the world could not touch their bond. Even Antilene realized that theirs was a pure and soulful love, so splendid and true that it could deceive.
"It was not my intention to waste your time." The Princess of Re-Estize tried to apologize. "Such a pathetic spectacle must be unseemly for the famous new ruler of the elves nation."
Antilene reassured her, using the same care with which one handles something precious and fragile. "Yours seems an unbreakable bond. I could never be offended to see something so beautiful."
The two young people blushed, with an innocence that had an adorable edge. A privileged rank was not always without thorns. So many imposed duties dictated what the princess should be, and not what she was.
Perchance out of stupor, the girl slipped the empty glass in her hand, which was promptly grabbed by the half-elf before it hit the ground.
"My carelessness knows no bounds. I am once again consternated." Far too hard on herself. A feeling that Antilene knew all too well.
"And I am once again here to tell you that nothing serious has happened," the half-elf told her, as she placed the glass back into the princess's hands. To the touch a feeling of coldness, the same as when grazing a corpse. The contrast with Renner's warm expression, darting between Climb still motionless and her, momentarily took Antilene by surprise.
"To change the subject," Renner continued to maintain that smile, but such was the naturalness of it that for a moment Antilene had the strange impression that it was all too perfect. So devoid of imperfections as to appear almost divine. Unthinkable, however, that there was something hidden behind that gentle personality. "Excuse me for being intrusive, but may I ask about your relationship with Emperor Jircniv? It's the first time he's done so much for the good of someone else, at least to the best of my memory."
In truth, Antilene had been so caught up in what she thought of the situation that she had not even pondered what idea the other rulers had of her and Jircniv. It was only natural that Renner was stressed; as far as the princess knew, she was a new enemy to be on her guard against.
"It would be nice to be able to answer that, yet I can't quite externalize exactly what it is we have in common." The proposal of marriage was carefully not mentioned, although the half-elf had the impression that the young girl had intuited something along those lines. " 'Friends' is, however, a word that sounds too much to my ears. Acquaintances would perhaps be more suitable."
Renner opened her thin lips in a small squeal of surprise. "I could have sworn there was something more to it from the delightful way you graced our visit. Such a... peculiar way of dancing. I had never seen one before."
Antilene blushed, cashing in on that insinuation. "Partner dancing has never been a specialty of mine." She swallowed, trying to hold back her embarrassment. "For those accustomed to court life since childhood, mine must have seemed an amateurish and forgettable performance, at best. I dare not imagine the worst."
"Only rude fools without the slightest ability to discern what is worthy of respect in this world could make such insinuations laden with malice. You were magnificent. I too would have loved to dance alongside... someone. But alas, he is not here with us." An all too obvious lie. Her protector strained to keep himself as composed as a statue.
What must it have felt like to be so close to the one who was at the center of one's heart and not be able to caress him, embrace him, kiss him?
The princess and the valiant knight who had won her devotion and soul through kindness and courage, despite his humble origins. An all too common fable, teasing the romantic fantasies of young maidens since antiquity, which in real life took on the contours of a devilish curse, condemning them to remain so close, yet so far apart.
"One day I would like to see you dance beside the one you desire."
"I fear that day will never come." A long sigh. "I am not strong enough. And in my future I see only black clouds on the horizon."
"You are strong, Princess Renner." Climb retorted, his body bent like his spirit at seeing his lady in that dejected condition. "If the Kingdom of Re-Estize still thrives, it is only because of your enlightened intervention."
"The image you have of me is far too idealized Climb." Then, turning towards the Elf Queen. "It was not my intention to disturb you with my own concerns."
"Not at all. I am convinced that what you desire could be granted."
"Only in legends and stories there is a happy ending."
"Sometimes legends are true and stories can be made real."
"Being friends with those who make these legends may be the key. If only there were someone of such caliber here with us."
"Who can tell? Friendship is not something you earn in a day, or in a month. It requires time and effort to cultivate."
"Let that seed be sown then. It may prove valuable in the future."
Antilene grinned from ear to ear. "It was a pleasure to meet you. The Golden Princess is deserving of her fame." The half-elf crossed her middle and index fingers, bending her thumb slightly. "A symbol of good wishes from the God of Light."
Renner reciprocated with a bow. Climb followed his mistress. "May our next meeting be under more favorable circumstances, Queen Antilene." The two walked away. "One last thing," she added, before turning away. "Good luck."
"Same to you." Antilene reciprocated, as she watched them head for the exit. By now almost all the guests had returned to their homes.
'Only one thing left to do now.'
She allowed Agravaine to retire to their rooms, as she prepared to face that last test of the evening.
----------------------------------------
Jircniv was waiting for her on the same terrace as a couple of days before. The emperor had temporarily dismissed his guards, and was intent on contemplating the starry sky, letting the feeling of the glass of the goblet he was absent-mindedly spinning in his hands be his only company.
"Ah, you are here." A stifled comment that barely acknowledged her existence. Antilene approached at a slow pace, remaining silent. "There was no need for you to come. I have no difficulty understanding your answer."
"I'm sorry." That was all she managed to say. She wished she could be more eloquent, but the words died in her throat.
"It's alright." Jircniv shook his shoulders resignedly. "Sometimes you win. Sometimes you lose. Things do not always follow our plans, but it is good to know how to adapt. It will mean that I will remain a bachelor for a while longer. Your answer was not the only reason why I organized this, and I can be satisfied on the other fronts. The Re-Estize delegation... nah, no need to bore you with these diplomatic trivialities."
She was too tired to fight back. She apologized to Princess Renner -not too much to Prince Barbro- in her heart before finally putting an end to it.
"The friendliness and decorum shown to me at this feast are not common. You won't be alone for much longer. You will find someone eventually."
"Oh I already have someone to share my heart and worries with." Who you marry is not who you love. A simple lesson Antilene had learnt in that short stay. "It was a fun prospective, for the little it lasted." Already he paid her no attention, his mind busy working out a new plan of action. Despite his youth, the emperor was always intent on scanning the new intentions of fate. "Even if my main goal was not accomplished, I still gained a valuable ally, did I not?"
"Of course." Antilene, on the other hand, remained steadfast in the past. "And I hope I can say the same."
Jircniv sneered. "What will you do now?"
"I will continue with my travels, I presume."
"A wandering Queen. Certainly not something you see every day. Do you intend to be remembered in the memory of the bards because of your eccentricity?"
"One has to be remembered somehow. You have chosen to do so through your works. I am content to do it through my oddities."
Jircniv offered her his arm, to accompany her on her walk back. "Do you already have your next destination in mind?"
"Yes. The Karnassus City-States Alliance looks promising."