Elinor watched the morning sun rising in the east with a frown, discussing the day’s plan with Edmon and Tiffany.
Yesenia is being held up as the Nalvean’s Goddess, which helps us establish a good base for our own religion, but what I told the Nadraca wasn’t a lie; Yesenia almost certainly has a grudge against the Ri’bot not unlike my own. Although, I doubt she has similar abilities that helped temper my rage.
So, my question is, what should we do if she chooses to wage a genocidal war against the Ri’bot? She has the Nalvean Empire behind her, which has been stated to be quite a lot stronger than the Ri’bot.
Edmon had resumed the planning phase of reconstructing the fortress while Tiffany worked on developing the religious ritual.
Tiffany’s ponderous tone fed through her mind as she drew the first test design. “I have no doubt she holds resentment toward the Clavex Clan; however, there are many things to consider when discussing genocide out of the blue.
“The reason why I suggested sending Nadraca and a few of her people down was to gather intelligence. We don’t know enough about the Nalvean culture, nor their laws.
“Even if Yesenia wishes to purge the Ri’bot from Nalvean land, this is not a world with instantaneous communication. It would take some time for the word about a new Goddess reigning the Empire, and the previous administration would need to be careful about how they move against anyone.”
“I agree,” Edmon responded. “Nations are complex structures that must operate in a system of order. The Clavex Clan has been welcomed in and has likely prospered while relying on the Nalvean military to secure themselves.
“It’s not the general well-being of the Clan that has Clavex like Nadraca seeking riches to free them from some debt, but cultural reasons. Ri’bot have come from a long history of independent territorial disputes, and the Clavex have no land to claim as their own.
“Nadraca said that the Mother Superior, their matriarch, would not have approved of her actions. This venture was only supported by a fringe group; life isn’t so bad for them that they need to risk involving their people in someone else’s conflict. Their choice to refrain from following the Delthax against the Flex and Lethix is proof of that; Nadraca had gained enough from just the resources taken from Earth.”
I see.
Tiffany and Edmon went about their tasks, waiting for her to select the direction the conversation would proceed.
Elinor was silent for a moment, scanning the sprawling city below while pondering on their analysis. Large bird-like reptiles could be seen flocking to the city from around the jungle, which caught her attention, but her primary focus was still on the snake-woman and how she might conflict with her plans.
Let’s say it is a bit more difficult than Yesenia would like, and she’s met with some resistance to her vengeance against the Ri’bot in the region. What if she could direct that hatred on those north of the territory? The Clavex might have some rights and liberties in the Empire, but that might not apply to those in the valley.
“Mmh—Edmon and I have been over such a situation, and still, it depends on what information is brought back. We could meet with Yesenia and smooth things over; in the worst case, she becomes an enemy that we must conquer, which could be met with assassination, poison, among many other options for a swift resolution.”
Edmon didn’t sound thrilled at the prospect. “While we have discussed it, and while having Iris take care of her would likely be a simple matter, the Empire’s movement afterward would not be.”
“Which is why we need to select a nation to pin it on,” Tiffany interjected. “It wouldn’t be that hard once we’ve selected a candidate. Valdar and Nadraca can give us a list of countries that are not on the best terms with the Nalveans, and then we can weaken both while offering aid to both in private.”
He sighed. “In the worst case.”
“Well, it’s an option to consider. Not only that, but then we could arrange for her to be revived! Now, we’d have to keep her a bit out of the limelight to not draw suspicion from both nations, but it shouldn’t be that difficult.”
An idea had occurred to Elinor that they hadn’t brought up yet, and after Tiffany’s short chuckle, Elinor posed it.
If tensions between Yesenia and the Clavex become tense … could we use that to pull in more followers to the religion by offering sanctuary?
Edmon was the first to respond. “It might not be that simple; we’d be putting ourselves between Yesenia and her revenge, which turns her hatred onto us.”
Yes, but we’ve already incorporated many Ri’bot into our ranks. What would happen if she demanded I hand them over?
“No one demands anything of you,” Edmon darkly replied.
“Hmm…” Tiffany lowered her voice. “If you were to offer a sanctuary in private … without letting the Nalveans know, and only deliver that message to the possible opposition of Yesenia, then it could spark a revolution.
“Leadership rapidly being removed does not normally sit well with a country’s population without extreme measures taken, such as we have employed, and even that had some opposition.”
Her tone normalized as she continued. “If we send a believer with Nadraca to quietly spread the word … someone enthusiastic about the message of the Supreme Chief of the Pits, then we could build traction underground. It could work, and if we then went in person to offer our hand in assistance with Nadraca by our side … oh, it’s a dangerous game, but it could just spark just what we need to be recognized as a nation.”
I like this direction.
A smile moved Elinor’s lips as they discussed the plan, and a few contingencies.
The small movement drew Violet’s attention. Getting up, the youngest spider sister placed another extravagant dress on the clothesline; her eyes followed her gaze, probably trying to figure out what was so funny, but Elinor only partially paid attention to her as she continued the conversation.
Several minutes passed while Edmon and Tiffany debated complex plots with minimal input from Elinor, but something caught her interest as they were coming to a conclusion.
I haven’t told you much about this new system, have I?
Edmon and Tiffany paused.
“No,” Tiffany mused. “Now that you mention it, that does seem like an oversight on our part. I apologize.”
Edmon’s deep voice rumbled softly in her mind as he pondered her question. “We were given a great deal of data as to the Lich Empress portion of the Undead System that helped create us to advise you … however, we are in the dark about this Religious System.”
Hmh? Then, I will explain what I have discovered.
I can tell when someone has true faith in me … I’ve sensed my religion growing in the valley throughout the day among the tribes. I believe there are even Clanless catching word of my powers and identity.
“Hmm, Edmon … if Elinor can distinguish which individuals believe in her divinity, we could do targeted proselytizing campaigns.”
“Yes … we could also sniff out traitors and spies. If we surround the palace with only those that have the most faith in the Empress while shunning non-believers…”
“No, no, no,” Tiffany cut in. “You cannot have the strongest base in the center, with the weakest at the edges. We need a strong base in the Capital and bright-eyed converts around the borders with those that doubt sandwiched between.”
“I—can understand that. If those at the edge of our territory are constantly speaking about the Empress, then word will spread outside while doubt is crushed on both sides within.”
“Oh, we must start a religious college as soon as possible!” Tiffany squealed with enthusiasm. “This must be designed around the ritual to create your clergy army. The establishment of a Religious Affairs department would help guide the establishment.”
Elinor’s smile fell a little. Hmm … are you suggesting we teach science and other types of modern thought?
“Absolutely not!” Tiffany protested. “No, think about it as…”
The Witch explained the curriculum she had in mind; Edmon offered a few points, but most of the suggestions came from the Witch, and the overarching vision reflected her own twisted personality.
Eventually, Tiffany and Edmon retreated to continue developing each of their separate departments in private, leaving Elinor with a lot on her mind.
Time passed, and the Chiefs arrived.
Violet and Elinor returned to the Throne Room before entering the palace; the girl was back in her spider form.
Elinor sat upon her extravagant silk chair with a charming smile that mirrored the slightest joy she was able to feel through Emotional Loss, waiting for her guests.
Tiffany, during your explanation of the non-combat Classes, you mentioned Maids and Butlers. How do you suggest we go about it?
“Oh … that’s an excellent point!” Tiffany replied. “I would most definitely suggest humans; Ri’bot are not aware of the customs expected of the Title, and while it would teach them if you designated them as Maids or Butlers, their proficiencies would not rise as quickly as humans because of their inexperience with the culture.”
Title … you were a bit vague on that aspect.
“Ah, yes, well, there were quite a few things we were talking about. Just as the Royal Court have their own Titles associated with them, that doesn’t mean that they will not be granted combat Classes and Subclasses, but they will be extremely diminished compared to true combatant Minions. A servant of the Empress must be trained to defend and give their lives for you.”
How strong are you suggesting these non-combat types are—I’m a little confused; why did you say they’re non-combat if they can gain combat skills?
“Mmh … think of it as a contrast. To me, the Royal Staff are not an adequate defense for you; they are primarily there to clean, cook, prepare your attire, but even in medieval times, a Queen or Empress had Noblewomen as their servants, and it was seen as a way to gain favor with one’s house to have a daughter that served the Princess, Queen, or Empress.
“As Nobles, these individuals would have known how to operate accordingly in the presence of such high nobility. If you were to get a kid off the street, he’d have no idea how to behave in court or properly fix an Empress’ hair.
“The same could be said about your Royal Staff—they are by no means weak by general standards, but to the Royal Court’s raw combat abilities … they are mites.
“As to obtaining them … offer to bring back people’s loved ones if they will act as your servants, seeing to your every need. There could be generous time-off given to them to spend with their living relatives—they could operate in shifts with one designated as the supervising Maid and Butler.”
It’s a good suggestion … I’m limited on the number of minions I can have and maintain at the moment, though, especially with Intelligent Undead.
“Nine left, correct? Eighteen is the current maximum.”
Yes.
“Hmm, the positions I’d suggest need filling are … let me see…
“One Groundskeeper to help lighten the burden on my poor Gwen.
“A Royal Chronicler would be nice … records are essential.
Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author's consent. Report any sightings.
“Treasurer, to begin organizing our resources … that would take some weight off of Edmon.”
The Doom Guard cleared his throat, having been listening in on the conversation. “That would be most appreciated … El’Co’Ca and El’Ra’Ca are not the quickest at using a quill.”
Tiffany giggled. “Of course, I could sense the frustration eating at you.”
“With my helmet on?” He mused.
“A woman has her ways,” she replied secretively. “In any case, a Publicist to handle the in-between work of you and the living would be of use … that makes four out of nine.”
It’s filling fast. Elinor commented. Will there be enough for Maids and Butlers?
“Maids, definitely Maids … not too fond of having a Butler handle your … cleanliness routines. Perhaps, given time we can get a Butler … it’s good to have eye candy,” she mused.
“Eye candy?” Edmon repeated with a questioning eyebrow more than likely raised.
“Bah, you wouldn’t understand.”
“No?”
“No.”
“Hmm…” Was Edmon’s only response.
Elinor had to wonder if it was all a joke, to begin with, for the Witch to get under Edmon’s skin.
The other five?
“Ah, right, umm—a cook would be nice.”
She debated Tiffany’s suggestion.
I don’t have to eat, but I can … and good food is one of the pleasures of life.
“It also would be a must if we entertain royal ambassadors or representatives of a country! Well, I mean, we’d need to do our research on their preferred cuisine, but that’s a part of the fun of hosting visitors!”
If you say so.
“The four remaining, Maids! Cute ones would be nice, and even if they’re a bit young, the Title will grant sufficient knowledge while the older Maids train them. Wouldn’t that be kind of sweet? Four perfect Maids is boring … there needs to be some flavor in life, and that comes from unpredictability!”
Elinor chuckled as the doors opened; her minions had been given instruction to allow the Chiefs in when they arrived.
So, two experienced Maids, a moderately competent one with a few quirks, and a klutz?
“Well, they don’t have to be a complete klutz, but a little nervous, cute personality wouldn’t hurt. Oh, I’ll have Violet start making them matching outfits!”
The Chiefs bowed as they came to the podium, waiting for her to address them.
How? I haven’t even picked them out yet … she has no clue what size they’ll be.
“Ah, no, no, not the size, but the design! I’m thinking along the lines of normal, elegant maid fashion—black and white with stockings, gloves, lace—oh, decorative and functional hair accessories! They shouldn’t all be the same, but still have enough in common to keep with the Maid theme…”
Alright, alright, you can surprise me. I’ll get you your maids after this meeting with the Chiefs.
“Mine? These are your Maids.”
Mmh, they feel more like your Maids. Elinor laughed internally. I’ll leave it to you, though.
“Oh … well, I won’t disappoint you!”
She cut her connection to the Witch with a small smirk.
It does feel good to indulge her a little from time to time. I’ll probably get more of a kick out of her fussing over every detail than the end product itself … just like my mother.
Her ghostly green eyes slid down to the four Chiefs, kneeling behind Valdar, and her head tilted slightly while staring at the newly appointed Delthax leader. “Valdar, introduce our guests.”
Bowing a little lower to show his acknowledgement, Valdar straightened, gesturing to each Chief; they refused to lift their eyes, even when called, but only Utren and Loci kept perfectly composed.
Yimara was fidgeting nervously while the new Delthax Chief did their best to remain calm, but showed a few signs of distress; Imperial Presence pulsated around the room. Elinor wasn’t quite sure if it was her Skill, the things she’d witnessed her do, or the new Ri’bot’s rapid thrust into the position of power that caused the new Chief’s reactions.
“Empress Elinor, may I present Chief of the Lethix, Utren.
“Chief of the Wixum, Yimara.
“Chief of the Flex, Loci, and…”
He paused, purple irises settling on the blue-skinned Ri’bot. “My great-grandchild, Chief of the Delthax, Nina.”
“Mmh, your great-grandchild, Valdar? Interesting … you may raise your eyes.”
A quiver ran down Nina’s frame as Elinor’s head turned to her. “Tell me a little about yourself, Chief Nina.”
“I—thank you, Supreme—umm, Empress…”
“Speak up, and be dignified with your responses, Chief Nina,” Valdar’s tone was disapproving.
“Yes—High Priest Valdar.” She licked her lips, cleared her throat, and stood a little straighter; Elinor was a little impressed with how well she took the criticism in front of her peers. “My name is Chief Nina. I am eight years old, the youngest Chief in our oral history, but I will do my best to fulfill the Empress’ desires. I’m also a Plant Caller.”
Elinor crossed her legs the opposite way, folding her hands atop her knee. “Hmm … a Plant Caller. Tell me a little about what you know about Plant Callers, Chief Nina.”
Nina swallowed, eyes seemingly unable to resist glancing at her great grandfather. “I—am very inexperienced as a Plant Caller, Empress … my great grandfather was teaching me the ways before…” Her lips tightened momentarily, trailing off.
The girl’s reactions interested Elinor. Through her network, she could tell that every Chief below was a believer, yet Nina was a bit conflicted, not with her as a Supreme Chief, but with who her great grandfather was, and Elinor sensed an opportunity.
“Is that right, Valdar?” She asked, vision darting to her High Priest.
“Yes, Empress. Nina did show some promise as a Plant Caller.”
“Hmm … Supreme Chief Tiffany could help mold that gift into something—much greater.”
Nina blinked, and a lump dropped down her throat. “Greater—than a Plant Caller, Empress?”
“Indeed—but it will require a degree of devotion that might seem daunting. Are you willing to advance your gift to something that was never before possible without the help of a Supreme Chief?”
“I—a Supreme Chief gave this gift to me…” Nina softly replied in a confused tone.
Valdar’s hands found each other behind his back before turning to her. “Of course, Chief Nina; the Empress is offering to advance it to heights that have never before been seen among Ri’bot.”
Wow … that’s a high opinion. I don’t know if I’d go that far, but it’s not like I know what the pinnacle of a Plant Caller is.
“What about—would I still be able to lead my Clan if I’m here?”
“Ah,” Elinor smiled, “that’s a good point, young Chief, and one of the reasons I’ve called each of you here. Your Clans will be moving into the fortress.”
It was a statement, and they knew it.
Chief Utren cleared his throat, glancing at Valdar, but Elinor caught the intent.
“Speak your minds.”
“Would the Empress be willing to explain our food, shelter, and water needs, since we will be moving locations?”
“Yes,” Yimara forced a chuckle, “Empress—umm, we—of the Wixum Clan, that is—all we know is our lake. What would the Empress have us do in—a place like this?” She whispered, glancing at the glowing white trees and black granite.
“Excellent questions,” Elinor replied. “Supreme Chief Tiffany will be putting together a college—a place of learning. There will still be hunting and gathering parties for the short-term, but we will be expanding to a more—advanced type of society.
“From what I understand, Ri’bot in the valley have already been experimenting with several of the early stages I wish to push forward. Animal husbandry, apprenticeships, a banking system as we develop an economy, sewage, irrigation, medicine, mass production, and plantations, among many other activities to build and grow an Empire.
“Many of my own followers, brought back from the Pits, will work in the much more demanding positions, but there needs to be a strong base among the Ri’bot that contribute to the peace in this world we are building. Wouldn’t you say?”
Most of the things she’d said seemed to fly right over their heads, which only seemed to prove that she had planned something far grander than they could even imagine.
“We—will follow whatever order the Empress gives,” Utren hesitantly replied, still trying to conceptualize her words.
“Good. There is a lot to be done in the coming days, and we must move quickly.” Her tone darkened. “Supreme Chief Yesenia is not an ally to us yet, and very well might become an enemy.”
The Chiefs gave each other worrying looks, but their attention returned to Elinor as she chuckled.
“You needn’t worry. Tell each of your Clans; those that seek peace will have it, and those that wish to fight for me will be given power. This fortress will be my Capital, and there will be no safer place on this planet. Return to your Clans and prepare to move here. By the time you return, tasks will be made available.”
When she stopped speaking, it took a moment for them to realize she was dismissing them. With a swift bow, the four Chiefs left, leaving Valdar to wait for his own orders.
She spoke to him through her Nexus.
Valdar, you’ve done well, and choosing your niece, who is also a Plant Caller, despite her age, was bold—she seems to be a perfect fit for my vision.
“I live to serve you, Empress.”
Yes … and by doing so, you serve the Empire.
Her twinkling green eyes studied the blue Ri’bot; it was hard to see him as the wrinkled toad she’d first met. Even if his vision of her was slightly skewed for one of her minions to play the part, he was beginning to grow on her, which could have been her Nexus’ influence.
Nadraca and a few of her party will be leaving in the coming hours to gather information on Supreme Chief Yesenia and the Nalveans. I’m troubled…
“About, Empress?”
I believe the Clavex are in danger of Yesenia’s wrath for the actions they took against her.
“Actions … Empress, as far as I am aware, the Clavex did not kill a single human from that unfortunate raid.”
No … you’re right, Valdar. There were very few fatalities caused by the Clavex, but that might not matter to Yesenia. She’s not as forgiving as I, and—her fury might not be restricted to just the Clavex.
He caught her meaning with narrowed eyes as they fell to the floor. “Hmm … I see why you are sending Nadraca. What is it you require of me?”
We must be careful how we proceed. I am not at my full strength to deal with Yesenia so casually … that is why I need you to quickly prepare two Apostles to be sent with them. The most loyal of the Clans that can spread my message:
There is safety within my Empire, and for those that believe in my name. Flock to my Capital if you fear for your life; I will protect you, and if you wish, I can grant you power, but I can do nothing to help those that have no faith in the eternal.
If you are godless, then you shall have no aid when the gods come for your soul. A war is coming—not of mortals, but of the divine. Choose who you will serve, and know that not every Supreme Chief or Goddess is so merciful.
Valdar was silent as he thought, and after a minute, his purple irises returned to her, high above upon her silken throne. “It is as you say, Empress … and in the end, all are judged by your holy hand. I will prepare the two Apostles … the most devout.”
I put my trust in you, Valdar. This is to be secretive, and they must understand that this is of the utmost importance. By no means are they to allow this to spread to the wrong Nalveans or Yesenia herself. They will stay behind to continue their work in secret; have them seek out like-minded individuals that are unhappy with the current Nalvean rulers. This cannot be traced back to us, but to have emerged from the Clavex base.
“Understood.”
With that, she dismissed him.
Violet and her skeletal ape stood on either side of her throne like statues, invisible unless called upon. Elinor placed her left elbow against her chair’s arm, cheek resting atop the back of her hand as she stared at the door with a small smirk.
Plans are in motion … propaganda, sure, but not exactly mendacious. Watching the outcome should be entertaining, to say the least.
Her green eyes moved to Violet. Call Gwen, Severino, and Gervasio to me.
Violet bowed, her large abdomen rising into the air before she skittered down the steep wall to the floor, moving beyond the room as the doors opened again.
It didn’t take long for them to return, and Violet was back in her human form, elegantly guiding the pair with a newly fashioned, bright white summer’s dress. She took a note from Valdar’s introduction, gesturing to each.
“Empress, may I introduce Gwen, Severino, and Gervasio.”
They bowed, and just like the Ri’bot Chiefs, refused to raise their heads until Elinor allowed it. Both men seemed nervous, but Gwen was all smiles.
“Gwen, how is everyone handling the news I presented a few hours ago?”
“As could be expected,” she replied with a bright tone. “Thank you, Empress, for allowing me to shield the underaged.”
“Of course. Now, the reason why I’ve gathered you here is to make an offer to the family members that have lost loved ones.”
A lump dropped down Severino and Gervasio’s throats, knowing the general direction of where this was going.
“I’m not unreasonable. All those that wish to have a family member returned; there will be opportunities that arise—so, I recommend keeping their bodies intact. I need nine positions filled, and those that take my offer will be able to have the joy of embracing their loved ones again. They will have tasks in my Empire, mainly having to do with my growing court.
“To preface this offer, they will be allowed shifts, and this will be like a job for them. I will say that when they return, there will be loyalty to me before anything else, but that does not override their love and memories.
“They are essentially the same people … except I have become their master. Their workload will decrease the more positions that become available, meaning that they will have more time to spend with their families and friends. Does this sound acceptable?”
“More than acceptable! It is an open invitation for you to bring back the dead; there are some caveats, but I can’t think of many fiction accounts that would have such minuscule conditions for a miracle resurrection.” Gwen quickly responded, and the other two slowly nodded.
“Excellent. As I said, nine positions are currently available, and I will be the one to decide who is chosen from the list you gather. Elect the bodies, and one of my minions will bring them into the Throne Room for me to make my final decision once everyone has made their choice.”
“Umm—Empress?” Gervasio timidly asked.
“Hmm?”
“May we know—if we are permitted—what, umm, jobs will they be doing? It may matter to a few people…”
“I suppose it would,” Elinor replied with a small smile, and she listed the positions Tiffany had recommended.
“Maids,” Gwen repeated with a thoughtful hum. “I never even thought about that, but it would be appropriate. The other positions are really interesting, too—hmm, okay, we’ll spread the word, Empress.”
They all bowed and exited with her approval; the doors shut behind the three with a low boom.
Violet returned to her original place, waiting for Elinor’s next decision, but her mind had moved back to a darker experience while glaring at one of the glowing trees.
Is Demon watching me right now? He couldn’t possibly have grasped what direction we’re moving from what I’ve spoken aloud, but … who knows with him. With his shadow looming over this planet, I need to watch for his manipulations, which means I need more spies … many more in the years to come.
To distract her from the creature she could do nothing about, Elinor’s gaze moved to Violet. “How about you decorate the Throne Room while leveling your thread-based abilities?”
“Oh? How would you like it themed, Empress?” She asked with restrained enthusiasm, white halo-like irises moving over the space with a thoughtful expression.
“The same as the Throne; make it darker, Victorian … it's certainly grand, but make it more—baleful. Not this gaudy eyesore, but something more befitting a Lich Empress.”