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Post by SummerCrow on Jul 3, 2017 2:14:10 GMT -6
"Keith...? Keith!" Carin calls out. She runs to his side and wraps him in a hug.
"Carin!?" he yells. A smile spreads across his face. He quickly returns the embrace. "I heard you were caught in an ambush!"
"I heard Mala's fort was destroyed!" she answers. "I'm so glad you're alive!"
"I was injured pretty bad," he admits. "But I pulled through, thanks to Princess Lily..."
"Sorina kept me safe," Carin says. "And the Captain Rain, Doran... sacrificed themselves... And Alice..."
"Haha... It sounds like I have a lot of people to thank. I'm so glad you're safe..." Keith says. They continue embrace for a few moments. "Um... Carin? Are you... going to let me go soon? People are starting to stare..."
"Let them stare," she says. "I thought you were dead, so just... give me a few more minutes..."
"...OK."
Judoc walks up to greet the first person he sets eyes on. "Hi, I'm Judoc."
"Kelly," she answers.
"So you're... a Carcinan soldier? Knight? Mercenary?"
Kelly's eyes narrow at the last suggestion. "Tartarus town guard."
"I see. But... you've been traveling with the princess, huh?"
"Yes. Princess Lily's mission was short notice, so we had to use town guardsmen."
"Oh, that makes sense."
"Yep."
"So... uh... How long have you been a guard?"
"Five years."
"Wow, that's a long time. For someone as young as you are."
"Yep. I joined as soon as I was able."
"Oh? Some reason for that?"
"Yes."
"...Are you going to tell me?"
"No."
"Well... Alright, then. Great chat. If... you'll excuse me, I'm going to cut and run before this gets any more awkward," Judoc says, motioning to leave.
Kelly smiles. "I'd like that, thanks."
Suarrure strolls confidently up to Zenia. "Well, hel-lo there," he says.
Zenia glares at him silently.
"That's a nice sword you got there."
Silence.
"Pret-ty big, huh? You must be really strong."
Silence.
"But I'm sure plenty of people tell you how strong you are, eh? When's the last time someone's pointed out how cute you are?"
Zenia's frown tightens.
"You don't talk much, do you? Well, that's fine. All the more time for me to sing your praises. Has anyone ever told you what a lovely shade of blonde your hair is?"
The glare intensifies.
"Oh, please, continue to glare at me like that. You've got such beautiful eyes, I could stare into them for hours."
Finally, Zenia speaks. "Your tongue seems very well-exercised. Perhaps I could find a use for you. As a lapdog."
"D-dog!?" Suarrure barks. "I'll have you know I'm a proud wolfskin and-"
"You are a dog, begging for scraps. Next time, do it properly: crawling on the ground with your tail between your legs."
Suarrure visibly snarls. "You... How dare..."
"How dare you address me with such familiarity!? And now you dare to bare your fangs at me!?" Zenia demands. "Know your place, Dog, and perhaps I'll deign to throw you a bone!"
For a moment it seems Suarrure is going to attack, then his demeanor suddenly shifts back to his usual charming self. He offers a smile and a small bow. "You're right. My apologies, Miss, that I was so forward. Perhaps we could start over and speak more later?"
Zenia nods. "Very well."
Gin feels a tap on his shoulder and turns around. "Hey," Kurt says. "Nice outfit, looks really good on on."
"Huh? Oh, uh... Thanks?" Gin says, surprised.
"Yeah, I really like it. Oh, yeah. Name's Kurt," he says. He extends a hand.
"Gin." He returns the handshake.
"So, uh... hey. Got a minute? I was looking over Princess Lily's report about the attack on Mala, and I noticed a few things about it that are... strange. Think you could go over a few things with me?"
Gin's mouth tightens in displeasure. "Oh... Um... Sure, of course."
"According to the report, you were saved by a Feroxi courtesan?"
"Courtesan? ...You mean Isana? She's a traveling dancer. She showed up to the fort that morning, a bit before the attack. Oh... I guess that sounds kind of suspicious, but she saved my life! And almost died doing it, so..."
Kurt tilts his head and observes Gin carefully. "Hm... Well, you seem pretty on the ball. If you think it was a coincidence..."
"I don't know it was really a... coincidence. She was looking for Zenia, and the attack on the fort was so they could attack her in the harbor... right? So... But I think we can trust her, at least."
"I see... Thanks, Gin. That's all I wanted to ask about. I owe ya one."
"Uh... yeah, no problem."
Kurt gives a dismissive wave and strolls off. "Heh... He's kinda cute," he says to himself.
"Ahoy, Quinn! Good t' see ya again!" Harv calls. He walks up and wraps an arm around the fox laguz.
"I'd recognize that voice anywhere..." Quinn says. "Hey, Harv. It's been too long."
"How've ya been, ya foxy mate?" Harv asks with a grin.
"Well... I was doing well until a few days ago. Finally got a promotion, everything was looking up..." His ears and tail droops. "Now all this..."
"Ah... Right. How's... how're Syliva 'n' yer mum takin' it?" Harv asks
"Syliva's... doing surprisingly well. She's always been like that. Mom's... Mom's not doing so well. Especially after her first husband..."
"I'm... sorry t' hear that," Harv says. "How're you doin'?"
"I'm... keeping it together as best I can," Quinn answers.
"Alright. Well... don't push yerself harder'n ya hafta. Just shout if ya need anythin' 'n' I'll come a-runnin'."
"Thanks, Harv. I appreciate it."
"Hello..." Alice says nervously.
"Hi!" Isana answers. "I'm Isana - and you must be Alice, correct?"
Alice is surprised. "Oh! That's correct. How did you...?"
"There's rumors going around about beautiful young woman dancing naked in the garden earlier," Isana tells her. "I thought I might join her."
"I wasn't naked!" Alice protests. "...Not completely, anyway."
Isana laughs. "I do understand the feeling. I heard people arguing about which of us was more beautiful - as well as some less savory things - and I decided I simply had to see you in person. And I have to admit, you truly are quite beautiful."
"Ah? Uh... Th-thank you?" Alice stammers.
"I love your outfit!" Isana says. "May I?"
"Oh, of course," Alice says.
Isana kneels down and runs her hand over the fabric. "Hm... It's soft, and feels absolutely wonderful to the touch. And it reveals just enough... A glimpse of skin... It's so very alluring. Perhaps I should ask Mistress to buy me some. And these shoes really bring out the figure of your lower body."
Alice grimaces. "I'd rather go barefoot... But I do like the fabric." Alice is silent as Isana continues to run examine her. "I quite like your outfit, as well. The cape instead of a proper shirt, and those pants look very comfortable. I'm not sure about the anklets, but..."
Isana grins. "Would you like to try it on? If you'll let me try yours, of course."
Alice smiles back. "Alright, deal."
Sorina excuses herself and heads for the stables. "Sir Storm!" Sorina calls out.
He looks up from brushing his pegasus. "Sorina... Hello."
Sorina winces at the cold greeting. "Sir Storm... So you've already heard?"
Storm nods sadly.
"I'm so sorry..." Sorina says. "We walked right into that ambush. If we'd been paying more attention..."
Storm freezes, then takes a deep breath. "It's not your fault, Sorina. I'm sure you did all that you could."
"...We wouldn't have made it if not for your mother. And... We don't know for sure that she's-"
Storm holds up his hand. "Sorina. If Mother were OK, she'd have reported in by now."
"She might just be cut off and trying to get back-"
"Or injured, or captured..." Storm says. "I've already thought of all the possibilities. Please, just let it go."
Sorina droops. "OK. But, if you ever want to talk..."
"...Yeah. Thanks."
Rand and Lily decide to meet with Hyun'ji and Zenia in the room where negotiations are to take place and introduce each other.
Hyun'ji offers Lily a polite bow. "Greetings, Princess. It is an honor to meet you."
She returns the gesture. "A pleasure, ambassador. I hope you're recovering well?"
Hyun'ji frowns. "Ah. You know what happened, then?"
"Rand told me all that happened. My condolences for your losses."
"There's nothing that could have been done, but thank you for the sentiment."
"And your injuries?" Lily asks. "Valeria's well-known for its healers, so if you you need any attention, please don't hesitate to ask."
"I'm doing well," Hyun'ji assures her. "And Kurt already made sure to attend to my servant. But enough of the formalities. Tell me of yourself, Princess."
"Oh, no. I'm much more interested in hearing about yourself. I've heard quite a bit about Valmese culture, but I'd love to hear more about the Valmese court..."
Rand and Zenia observe the exchange from the far side of the room. Zenia folds her arms, leans against a wall, and watches impassively. Rand gradually begins to mimic her posture. Zenia glances in his direction and smirks. Rand notices what he's doing and returns a smile.
"So, you are the crown prince?" Zenia demands.
"That's right. And that makes you the Feroxi champion?"
Zenia nods. "You seem much more laid-back than your sister."
"Yes, Lily's always been a bit... busy," Rand admits. "She's very dedicated to her role."
"She's definitely the traditional noble type. You, on the other hand, seem much more... open."
"Thanks. I think?" Rand says.
"I don't usually care for Lily's type," Zenia says bluntly. "Your sister, at least, isn't afraid to show her true colors when you push her too hard. Though you certainly have to try to piss her off. She could stand to be a bit more earnest, like you."
"I'm don't think I like what you're implying," Rand responds with narrowed eyes. "I hope you understand I'm very protective of my sister."
"I'll keep that in mind," Zenia sneers.
After Rand and Lily leave, Zenia glares daggers at Hyun'ji from across the room. Hyun'ji returns a blank expression. Eun'ji scowls back a bit, until Hyun'ji places a hand on her shoulder and asks her to step out for a moment. Zenia jerks her neck towards Harv. He figures it's a sign to leave.
When the two are truly alone, Hyun'ji gives Zenia a polite nod. "You are the Feroxi champion, correct? Zen'ya?"
"Zenia," she corrects.
"My apologies."
"And you would be the emperor's nephew, Hyun'ji."
"Yes, I am." Hyun'ji repeats the polite nod. "It is an honor to meet you."
"Yes, I know." Zenia gives an ominous smile.
Hyun'ji smiles brightly. "Tell me, Champion Zen'ya. What are Regna Ferox's goals at this negotiation?"
"We can discuss that at the negotiations tomorrow," Zenia says. "For now, there is something I wish to confirm. It would be... fortuitous if we didn't attend this summit. So... Did your country have anything to do with the attempt on my life?" Her hand drifts very overtly to her greatsword's hilt.
"Funny," Hyun'ji says. He casually places a hand on his own blade. "I was going to ask you exactly the same thing."
The two observe each other, silent and unmoving for what seems like hours. A soft tap comes from the window, and they both immediately whirl around, tearing their blades free and ready. A very confused robin stares at them for a moment, then flies off.
Hyun'ji and Zenia sheathe their blades in unison. Hyun'ji walks to the door. "Until tomorrow, Champion."
"Mm." Zenia grunts in agreement.
As Zenia departs, intent on finding the mess hall, a soft noise causes her to pause. "You can come out and speak to me face-to-face," she calls out.
"That's not really my style," Kury answers from out of sight. "I like to know who I'm talking to before the first word."
"I should hope my reputation proceeds me," Zenia sneers.
"Yeah, well... rumors and stories are often exaggerated," Kurt says. "It would seem you're every bit as crude as they say. Perhaps the stories of your combat prowess are true, as well."
"Perhaps," Zenia answers. "Would you care for a demonstration?"
"Scary," Kurt teases. "But I don't intimidate so easily. You're nowhere near as stupid as some people seem to think. In fact, you're pretty clever, aren't you? The Great Khan wouldn't have sent someone he didn't trust."
"And?"
"And so you won't do anything to risk upsetting the negotiations and upsetting your master. So I'm calling your bluff."
"Ha... Hahaha!" Zenia cackles. "Fantastic. Always nice to see a man with a pair of balls."
"Heh. Thanks. I-" Kurt begins. Zenia's sword blade stabs through the wall a few inches beside him. He stares at it in stunned silence.
Zenia wrenches her sword free and stares through the gaping hole. "But don't forget, Kurt, that you don't know what the future may hold. Why, we may even be at war soon." With her point made, Zenia returns to finding her way to the mess hall.
This barracks is surprisingly nicely furnished for a military installation, Alice decides. It makes sense, after all. This is an important checkpoint between Carcina and Valeria. Dignitaries and ambassadors probably pass through all the time, the type that expect some level of decoration, so it's only natural it would have a garden. It's certainly not Sefa Forest, but she can feel the spirits of nature here. The air tastes sweeter, the sun feels warmer against her skin, and the soft kiss of grass and dirt underfoot replaces the unpleasant bite of stone paths. Alice sighs contentedly as she stretches out in the grass, running the blades between her fingers and digging her toes into the dirt. Valerian soil is so different - almost lifeless compared to the floor of the lush forest, yet rich with minerals - and so cool against her skin. She's enjoying reaching out, feeling for all the subtle differences, the new sensations...
Alice snaps to attention as she hears a whisper in the wind. She continues to lie on her back, eyes closed and motionless as she sharpens her other senses. She suddenly bolts up and turns towards the door. She opens her arms wide with a smile.
"Ali-i-i-i-ice!" Gale shouts as she barrels through the door, immediately spotting her prey and pouncing. She transforms in mid-air, then the pair go tumbling until Alice winds up sprawled out underneath the massive rabbit. "Didja miss me?"
Alice smiles up at her. "Of course, Gale."
Gale giggles and buries her face in Alice's neck, nuzzling her gently.
Alice lets out a soft laugh. "Haha... I didn't expect to see you again so soon."
"It's been too long!" Gale protests. "Besides, Rand's been busy and Lily... Well, Lily's fun to torment, but..."
Alice reaches up and scratches behind Gale's ears. "Aw, is my poor little Snuggle-Bunny not getting enough attention? Come lie with me for a bit and I'll fix that right up..." Gale flops off of Alice and rolls onto her side. Alice shifts to pet her and the pair spend a few moments enjoying a quiet moment. "So soft..."
A few minutes later, Lily steps out into the garden to clear her head, only to find Gale stretched out on the ground with Alice reclining against her while reading a dark tome. Gale's ear twitches at the sound of Lily approaching, but Alice reaches back and rubs her head softly. Gale sighs and goes still.
"Hello, Princess," Alice says softly.
"...Alice? It's nice to see you," Lily says.
"It's been far too long," Alice agrees. "I wish it were under better circumstances."
Lily smiles. "Rand mentioned you came to his rescue. Thank you."
Alice shakes her head. "I just did as the spirits told me, Princess."
"There's no need to be so modest. I appreciate it, truly," Lily assures her. "And you know you can just call me Lily."
Alice smiles. "Alright, then. Lily. Do you have some time to chat? It's been so long since you've been able to visit the forest, I'd hate to pass up on this chance."
"I think I can spare a few minutes," Lily says. "I'd love to hear what's been going on in the village. And I'm rather curious - I don't recall you using dark magic?"
"Come take a seat, Gale doesn't mind." Alice slides over a bit. "Make yourself comfortable, stretch out..."
Lily hesitates as she sits down. She gives Gale a wary look. Gale chuckles softly. Lily grimaces and leans against her, then turns to Alice. "You must be the only person who can get Gale to hold still, much less behave..."
Alice laughs. "You're exaggerating. But I hear she's been tormenting you, so I'll give you in on a few tips. For one, she loves attention..."
"I'm right here," Gale reminds them.
"And you love the attention," Alice says. "Here, Lily... Next time she's bothering you, try stroking her cheek, right here..." The pair spend some time bonding over the impromptu anatomy lesson.
Eventually Gale decides she's had enough attention, and leaves to stalk her prey. She follows him for nearly an hour. But she's patient. Finally, he lets Hector loose to hunt. But she knows. She has to wait a few moments until he's out of earshot, or this will all be for naught. So she's patient. She counts. Yes, now. Rand turns his back. Her chance. Gale breaks into a sprint and plows into him. Rand turns just in time to dodge to the side. She clips his shoulder, knocking him off his feet. But he's back up almost before she recovers from her own dash.
"As expected of my arch-rival!" Gale says with a grin.
"I was starting to think you weren't coming after me," Rand says.
"Ha! As if. It's payback time!" Gale says. "This time - it's just you and me. No Hector, and no Lily! I'll have my revenge for that day!"
"Is that what this is all about? I'd heard you were tormenting Lily, but I thought you were joking about it being revenge... You know you just have to ask anytime you want a fight, right?"
"This isn't about that!" Gale yells. "That battle was in front of a crowd - and my mother! You're much better prey than your sister - honestly, she was almost boring to hunt - but make no mistake! You'll pay for that humiliation - just like your sister did!"
"You fiend!" Rand answers. "I shall avenge the princess' honor! Now, prepare yourself!"
"You wi-" Gale's eyes go wide and she begins gibbering with panic. She suddenly turns tail and takes off running at full speed.
Rand turns around, already knowing what happened. Hector lands next to him holding a pair of dead rabbits for his dinner. "Oof... That's brutal, buddy. Next time, take a few more minutes so we can finish out fight, OK?"
"Hey there, Cutie," Suarrure says as he walks up to Gale, who's still panting from her desperate flight.
Gale freezes. She slowly turns to stare at Suarrure.
"I really like your tail," he tells her. "And I hope you don't mind me saying - your legs are amazing. So muscular, absolutely beautifully toned - I'd love a chance to examine them more closely - in private, perhaps?" He grins a toothy grin.
Gale's eyes go wide with horror. She suddenly transforms and bolts off, diving into a bush.
"...Huh? Guess I came across too strong... Probably shouldn't have mentioned the tail right off the bat. Still, that is a cute little-"
"HAAAA!" Gale screams a battlecry as she leaps at Suarrure.
"Wha-!?" he quickly transforms, snatching her out of midair. "What are you-?"
"AAAAH! HE'S GOT ME! HE'S GONNA EAT ME!" Gale screams in fear. She kicks and struggles in his grip.
"Whoa! Stop doing that - I don't want to get kicked! Calm down and I'll let you go!" Gradually, Suarrure manages to get a better hold on her, flipping her upside down. Gale immediately stops struggling. "Ah, jeez, that's better. Are you calmed down now? Good. Y'know, your fur's really soft... And you're even cuter up close. I could just eat you up!"
Gale reverts to her human form and whimpers softly.
"Wait, no, I didn't... I'm not going to... I didn't mean that. Look, stop... making that noise, OK? And with the eyes... Alright, alright. I'm going to put you down now. And you're going to be nice and calm, right? Can you do that for me? I promise I won't even nibble."
Gale nods weakly. Suarrure lowers her to the ground. She sits, motionless, and stares at him. Suarrure starts to say something, then decides against it and calmly backs away as Gale observes him warily. When he finally leaves, Gale breathes a sigh of relief. "I'm lucky to be alive..."
Despite being back in familiar territory, Storm finds himself unable to sleep. He decides to head out for a late-night flight. As he flies along, a humanoid shadow appears silhouetted against the moon. He pauses in surprise before realizing it's the hawk laguz he'd seen in the barracks. He gives her a wave, and she dives down to his level.
"Hello... Allune, right?"
"Yes, that's correct. I'm sorry, I didn't catch your name?"
"Ah, right. I'm Storm."
"Storm? Oh... dear. I'm... sorry about your mother."
Storm bites his lip. "Thank you."
"Let me know if there's anything I can do to help."
Storm nods. "Um... If you don't mind me asking, what are you doing out here?"
"I'm looking for that pain-in-the-ass Alice. I'm supposed to be her bodyguard, but she constantly runs off... At least she was dressed this time... Half the time she doesn't even bother putting on clothes when she goes out... I swear, I took my eyes off her for one minute... She was behaving herself, just laying there cuddling her bunny... And suddenly she's gone. I swear, she can evade an entire town of laguz! She could be the world's greatest thief if she put her mind to it! Ugh... It's enough to make me want to tear my hair out!" Allune vents. She stops and chuckles awkwardly. "Sorry, I, uh... So! Why are you out?"
"I was just having trouble sleeping and thought a short flight might help clear my head..."
Allune nods. "I see. Not all beorc understand the joys of the sky." She actually smiles.
"Since I'm not doing anything, do you want me to help look for your friend?" Storm offers.
"'Friend' is a very strong word... But I would appreciate it."
That night, Hawke and Mina wait nearby while Lily and Rand finally find a private moment to talk. The pair stand in awkward silence for several minutes before Hawke finally breaks the silence. "I see you finally started wearing heavier armor," he says.
"Yes," Mina answers.
"Do you think you'll start riding a wyvern soon?" Hawke asks.
"I know I should, but... I've never been able to handle one properly..." Mina mutters.
"You're the only member of the guard that can't. I guess it's not technically a requirement, but..." Hawke shrugs.
"I know..." Mina pauses. "I bet you think I only got my position because of my parents, huh?"
Hawke shrugs again. "Dunno. Not my place to question the king's choices. If he wants you to be a royal guard, you're a royal guard."
"...You don't... think less of me?"
"You're weak. Not good at fighting. Can't fly a wyvern," Hawke rattles off. "But people like having you around. That's something. And something I can't do, so..." Hawke doesn't have anything else to say, and lets the conversation return to awkward silence.
Inside the room, the royal siblings are discussing how things have gone.
"I'm so glad to see you're well, Lily," Rand says with a dopey smile plastered across his face.
Lily smiles gently and sits down on a bed. "You as well, Rand. After we were attacked, I was so worried the same might happen to you."
Rand scratches the back of his head. "Well... You weren't wrong..."
Lily nods. "I know. From what I've heard you handled yourself well. I'm proud of you."
"I've heard you had it pretty rough," Rand says.
"Yeah. It was... bad. And Zenia's... a handful."
"I've noticed. Hyun'ji's a pretty good guy, at least." Rand takes a set next to Lily. "So... Have you been keeping your promise?"
"Ah... No tackling strange laguz, right? No worries there."
"You know I meant no taking stupid risks," Rand says with a frown.
Lily thinks back to nearly dying in the storeroom. "Well... I can't lie to you, I did get... pretty seriously injured..."
"Lily...!"
"It's not like-! I mean, I... Hawke was hurt even worse than I was, and we were surrounded, someone had to cover the rear..."
Rand sighs wearily. "...Are you OK?"
"...I'm still really sore..." Lily admits.
"No, I mean... Well, yes, that, but... Are you OK?" he asks again.
Lily's quiet for a moment. "I was... so, so scared. I nearly... I nearly died. And... it... hurt. A lot. A lot worse than I expected. But... I... I was also... so very, very... angry. I just... refused to die before they did. Ignored the... ignored the blood and kept fighting." She grasps the bedsheet until her knuckles turn white.
"...Are you...?"
"I'm... still scared. Something terrible's about to happen. I can feel it."
Rand wraps his arms around her. "Yeah. I... think so to. But it's going to be alright."
Lily returns the embrace silently. "No... It won't," she thinks to herself.
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Post by SummerCrow on Jul 3, 2017 13:20:39 GMT -6
The queen of Carcina arrives from the south the next morning - the king is noticeably absent. An hour later, the Archbishop of Valeria arrives from the north.
Within minutes, the meeting begins. Queen June, Lily, and Rand sit at one side of the table, along with Alice. Archbishop Saul and his wife Charlotte are seated across from them. Kurt stands awkwardly behind the pair, joined by Nevyn. Zenia takes another side with Isana behind her, while Hyun'ji and Eun'ji take the last.
As the host, Saul is first to speak. "Let us begin. I believe we all understand why we're here? To negotiate the involvement of Valeria and Carcina in the coming war between Regna Ferox and Valm."
"Before we get started, I'd like to ask where the king of Carcina is?" Zenia cuts in. "I expected to deal with him directly, not some go-between."
"Unfortunately, the king is busy dealing with a string of attacks against our military. Know I have his full confidence and the complete authority of the crown," June assures her.
Zenia shrugs. "Works for me. And the others?"
"Meridia never answered requests to dispatch a dignitary," Nevyn answers. "I am acting as representative, even if it's nothing but a formality so the council can't complain later."
"...Is that really OK?" Hyun'ji asks.
"I am the highest ranking officer in the area, and I was officially dispatched as an escort. If they council has any complaints, they won't be able to do more than puff up and yell, as usual," Nevyn says coldly.
"Sefa Forest is a protectorate of Carcina, and I am the daughter of its guardian... the closest we have to a formal leader," Alice explains. "I am well-respected in the village. No one will dispute my decisions."
Zenia seems satisfied. "Very well, then." Isana produces several documents from the folds of her cape and passes them to her. Kurt gives her a curious look. Zenia ignores it. "I will be blunt," she begins. "Regna Ferox wishes unlimited access to Valerian, Meridian, and/or Carcinan ports to rest, resupply, and repair her warships. We further expect to be given unrestricted access to corresponding markets for the purchase of food, weapons, etc, with no tariffs. In exchange, we are willing to offer a generous sum on a per-monthly basis until such time as we decide our operations are complete." She slides folded papers to June, Saul, and Nevyn.
They each examine them. "This... is per month?" Saul asks. Zenia nods. "It is indeed a generous sum..." he says.
June nods in agreement. "Before we make any decisions, we'd like to hear from the Valmese representative, of course."
"We desire much the same. We're offering a smaller sum, I'm sure," Hyun'ji says. "However, we're willing to discuss terms to limit our disruption of your trade routes, as well as limit how long we will remain. Of course, we will also offer protection against any Feroxi aggression."
Zenia glares at him. Hyun'ji smiles back.
June folds her arms. "Of course, we will not open our ports to both of you. We do not wish to be involved in this war at all. Carcina's official stance is a desire to remain neutral and uninvolved, regardless of the generosity of your offers."
"This is Valeria's stance, as well," Saul says.
"Obviously, I don't have the proper authority enter into any agreements," Nevyn says. "Therefore I must reject any offers."
"Sefa will only defend its borders," Alice promises.
"Furthermore, Carcina will respond to any aggression against Valeria, Sefa, or Meridia," June continues.
"Valeria will defend Carcina, Sefa, or Meridia, if necessary," Saul agrees.
Nevyn is silent. Alice hesitates. "Should the need arise, Sefa will offer what aid it can to her allies."
"Even together, our countries are tiny compared to either of your own," June admits. "But we can put up enough of a resistance to open your forces to a counterattack from your enemies."
Zenia folds her hands on the table. "And what do you intend to do once Regna Ferox destroys Valm?" Hyun'ji laughs. Zenia ignores him. "We will remember this slight."
Saul holds his hands up in a placating manner. "While you're here, we hope to discuss a peace etween your countries - at the very least, we would hear your grievances against each other and we will offer assistance with arranging further negotiations."
Zenia rises to her feet. "That-"
The door slams open. The garrison's temporary commander runs in. "We're under attack!" she yells.
Everyone is quick to leap up, scrambling for weapons. "By who?" Rand demands.
She hesitates. "...It appears to be a Carcinan military force... "
"What?" Lily asks. "That's...!"
"They're demanding we surrender the king immediately."
June closes her eyes. "I see. And their strength?"
"The enemy force is a sizeable one, but nothing we won't be able to drive back once our reinforcements start to arrive. I recommend we wait, and-"
"No," June says. "My guards and I will ride out to meet them. I won't endanger the town's civilians."
"I agree," Saul says. "I'll-"
"I... will take direct command of Valeria's forces..." Charlotte says. "They may... find you too tempting a target. Stay here and... organize treatment for the wounded, and preparation of... a fallback point, just... in case."
"Are you sure you can handle it?" June asks.
Charlotte nods. Saul gives her a concerned glance, then embraces her. "Be safe, my love."
"Where am I going?" Rand asks.
"Take your troops and defend the northern entrance to town," June commands.
"But-" Rand says.
"Yes, Mother," Lily says calmly. "Rand, let's go."
"I'll come, as well..." Alice says.
END OF INTERMISSION
Choose a commander for the next two missions.
(A) Alice
(B) Lily
(C) Rand
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Post by SummerCrow on Jul 3, 2017 18:18:57 GMT -6
The young woman pauses to catch her breath after hours of running. Her hair is a deep blue, and she wears a matching tunic dotted with a few golden marks and cinched with a simple, golden belt. Her arms and legs bare are left bare, save for a pair of simple, well-worn sandals. She doubles over, panting, watching Trine from the edge of the nearby forest. "Haa... Haaaaa... What's... What's going on? A battle...!? Ngh... Looks like that prince-y guy was right! And me with no reinforcements... O-o-o-oh, no, this is terrible...!" She stands up and shakes herself. "Kurt. I've gotta find Kurt. Or Quinn or Sylvia or Alice or Allu-" She's cut off as something thuds against the back of her head. "Shoulda been paying attention to your surroundings instead of talking to yourself... You two. Tie her up nice and tight, and don't forget the gag. She could be a useful bargaining chip if things turn sour..."
Lily takes command of the northern end of town. "The enemy's main force is to the south, but don't let your guards down for a second!" A large wall runs the length of the zone she's been assigned to guard, except for a major road running straight through the north. A second road intersects not far inside the town. A large river runs along the northwest of the plains out side of town. "Princess! There's a small group of mercenaries coming up along the river!" Allune calls. Lily signals and Allune comes down. She scoops Lily up and carries her up into the air. Three pirates coming along the riverbank... Is that it? "This feels wrong..." Lily says. "There's probably more of them lying in wait. Prepare for battle, but keep most of our force in reserve!"
(A) Head out to meet them (B) Stand ground (C) Advance to town entrance and hold position there (D) Move to set an ambush at the wall Choose 11 units to deploy. Rand - Great Wyvern Lord Mina - Soldier Storm - Falcon Lord Gale - Taguel Shep - Bishop Kelly - Paladin Hawke - Wyvern Lord Alice - Pupil Allune - Hawk Nevyn - Fighter Fei - Warrior Judoc - Halberdier Sylvia - Grandmaster Rhett - Journeyman Suarrure - Dancer Sorina - Knight Carin - Troubadour Rakim - Mercenary Harv - Pirate Zenia - Hero Kurt - Thief Quinn - Fox Laguz Hyun'ji - Swordmaster Eun'ji - Sniper Keith - Cavalier Gin - Soldier Isana - Dancer |
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