The Imperial Academy had been closed all day in preparations for the graduating ceremony that would be taking place in its main hall later that night. Braziers had been lit and candles scattered around to illuminate the room, giving it a formal yet welcoming atmosphere. A wide red rug with the same pattern repeated down its length led from the entrance doors into the hall, coming to stop to show a large circular mosaic that lay in the centre of the floor. Its tiles were various shades of blue, an altar and a summoning circle sat within its circumference. At the very back of the room positioned in the centre was a life-sized statue of the Emperor Rakha holding a globe above his head, his stance confident and supposedly reassuring. Around the room were several benches to provide seats for the families and observers of those who would be graduation. However for this particular ceremony the hall was bleakly filled; just a few citizens that the participants hardly knew were dotted around the room and a pair of travellers were seated in the far left corner.
Elrien was sat on one of these benches, her head propped up in her hands with her elbows leaning on her knees as she glanced around the room with a bored expression, her eyes landing on Alias parents. They were streaked with mud from their three day travel to see their daughters graduation and they both looked extremely weary. But despite this they had smiles on their faces. The lengths they had gone to had surprised her slightly when she had spoke with them earlier; she doubted very much that her own family would be willing to do any of that. Daevan wasn't bothered with her affairs, her father was always to busy and little Kaelee was to young to sit still long enough, let alone understand.
Seeing her looking, Alia waved enthusiastically and beckoned her over. With a groan, she pulled her head up, plastering on a small smile and travelled the small distance between them.
"Elrien, aren't you excited? It's our final day as lowly subjects of the Empire and our first as true Citizens!" She paused to let out a little laugh. "Or it will be as soon as we can get through this ceremony," Her upbeat tone brought a genuine smile to Elriens face as she inclined her head.
"You obviously are," Alia nodded enthusiastically, turning to look at Janthos as he walked in through the doors and made his way over to join them. "Glad to have your parents here?"
"I can't imagine not having them! They travelled three days from Lac Brier so they could be here, even with the floods. They're exhausted and haven't even unpacked the mules, but they wouldn't have missed this for all the world,"
"You're a lucky girl, Alia. Your parents really love you, especially your mother! She seems nearly ecstatic about you gaining citizenship," Janthos said, staring at her sobbing mother as she talked quietly to her father who patiently patted her on the shoulder.
"Mom was pregnant with me when graduated from this Academy and wasn't able to attend the final ceremony so in some ways this one is for the both of us," explained Alia, her voice lowering slightly. "It's good to see them again, though. Its been so long since I last went home," She turned around and waved at her mother who smiled, her face tear-stained from her sobbing that hadn't stopped since she'd crossed the academy threshold.
Elrien snuck a glance at Janthos, who was smiling at the scene, carefully watching him for any hint of sadness. But of course there was none there; he wasn't that sort of person. Despite his tragic past, Janthos had flourished at the academy, becoming one of Elrien's closest friends during the four years they had known each other, and he was a genuinely nice person.
"Tell me Elrien, when is your father getting here?" jumping at his question, Elrien quickly averted her gaze knowing that he had caught her watching.
"I don't know. He said he was coming, so did Daevan, but I don't expect them to actually show up," Janthos rubbed the back of his neck and sighed.
"I'm sure they will be here soon. This is an important day after all," She snorted and rolled her eyes, her arms folding over her chest as she fixed him with a sceptical look.
"Shall we recount the other events that we considered important that they said they were going to attend but failed to?" She lifted up her hand and wiggled her fingers in his face, getting ready to count them all off with exaggerated movements.
"Elrien," muttered Janthos, turning to Alia with a pleading expression.
"I'm sure Janthos is right, Elrien," Alia clasped her hands over Elriens, pulling her closer so she had to step forwards. Rolling her eyes she pulled her hands out her grasp and fixed them both with a sympathetic look.
"Prepare to be disappointed," Clicking his tongue in annoyance, Janthos walked over to their Imperial instructor, Jarvis. Alia hesitated, glancing between the two of them as Elrien made faces at his back.
"Don't worry Alia, go with Janthos," sighed Elrien as she spotted Giles, their Imperial servant, hobbling down the corridor towards the hall. Shooting her a quick smile, Alia bounded over to Janthos and was received with a grin whilst Elrien walked towards Giles who had stopped to catch his breath.
As she approached he bowed and then straightened, still slightly out of breath as he surveyed the room.
"M'lady, I see that everything is ready for the graduation. I know your father must be proud to have a daughter such as you today!" Elrien smiled at the old mans optimistic tone in his attempt to draw attention away from the fact that her father was missing from his side.
"I'm sure," she replied dryly. "But I have yet to see him make an appearance."
"Now, now, Elrien," sighed Giles, fixing her with an exasperated look. "Okaris is a busy man, being the Magistrate of Ghaarak and all. Perhaps he has merely been delayed up at the Imperial Grand Hall with a matter of great urgency, I couldn't imagine your father would fail to attend such an important event such as this,"
"Alia, Janthos and I were discussing this a few moments ago. I can assure you he will not be here, I know him well or at least as well as he lets me - my father is frustratingly distant,"
"Do not mistake that for disinterest in your affairs. He is a Magistrate of a city that has its fair share of problems, and its surrounds aren't peaceful either. He always has a great deal on his mind," Elrien sighed and looked at the floor. "If you wish I will go and look for Magistrate Okaris right now and make sure he returns in time to see you collect your honours, why don't you join your friends and start the ceremony?" Elrien looked up at him and smiled.
"Very well, Giles. But please ensure you return soon," Giles returned her smile and winked, giving a quick bow before turning to leave.
"I'll have him here before you know it, Elrien," he said over his shoulder.
Turning, she started in surprise to find the room watching her; Janthos and Alia having taken their places for the ceremony to take place. Hurrying over to them, Elrien tried to calm the colour that had rose in her cheeks as she glanced either side of her before finally focusing on Jarvis. He was a thin, sallow man standing slightly shorter than Elrien. His sharp facial features were framed by a bowl shaped hairstyle of long chestnut coloured hair.
"Ah, you're ready to join us Elrien? Being the Magistrate's own daughter is a burden all its own, isn't it?" his smile was sardonic as the words left his mouth. "Will you do us all the honour of leading the ceremony?" Returning his own smile with a sarcastic smile of her own she nodded and waited for him to continue, not wishing to draw further attention to herself. Jarvis gave the opening speech, addressing the whole hall before talking to the participants about their task of judgement, leaving it to Elrien to discuss it with her classmates before presenting their decision to their instructor.
Whilst Janthos showed clear hate for 'Yakir the Black', vividly remembering the killing spree he had gone on roughly two years ago, Alia showed almost an indifference to his actions, wishing for the spirit cycle to be restored. They both looked at her, clearly waiting for her to side with one of them. Holding up her hands, she turned at looked at the spirit thoughtfully.
"I want to see what he has to say about this," Janthos and Alia glanced at each other before following her across the floor to stand before Yakir. The spirit hissed at them, causing them to back away slightly as it bared its ghostly white teeth in a threatening grimace.
"You would dare judge me, pawn of Rakha? Might as well have the rabbit judge the snare!" Indignant at being called a pawn, Elrien glared at him and defiantly took a stop closer as Yakir sneered at her, apparently amused by her brave appearance.
"Tell me of your crimes," said Alia quietly from behind her, inching closer to Elrien as she eyed the spirit with sympathy.
"My crimes? Is that what they call them?" he let out a haunting laugh, turning his gaze on Alia. "The Empire has filled your head with rubbish, Druid, and it calls you wise… What of the Empire? It came here to 'tame' the north and crush us under its heel. I simply resisted. If you find a stone you cannot crush, do you name it a criminal, too?" Janthos stepped forwards this time, his hands clenched into fists and spoke.
"What of those you killed?"
"What of those the Empire killed," retorted the spirit quickly, give Janthos a look of contempt as he threw his classmates a startled look. "For every ounce of blood on my hands there are ten on yours! The people I killed lived and died in Rakha's name. The death I offered was too good for them,"
"Not killed, murdered," corrected Janthos. "What of the women and children?"
"You would swat a fly but leave its maggots there to fester? Your precious Empire has done the same to us, Gnome. It is the nature of war," Alia stared up at him with a horrified expression, her hands trembling as she reached out to clutch Elriens wrist.
"Why do you hate the Empire so much?" It was barely more than a whisper but the spirits reaction was loud and violent.
"We were a proud and strong people. One does not ask to be conquered, Druid, to be assimilated. One simply resists. One fights." It paused, gaining composure before continuing. "You imperials are far from home but we will send you there, your tail between your legs," Elrien frowned, glancing at Janthos.
"I wasn't aware there was a resistance," As soon as she said it she felt foolish. Ghaarak was a troubled city, most of its problems stemming from those unhappy with the Empires rule. Of course it wouldn't just be confined to this one place. The spirit chuckled, its ghostly orbs that served as eyes focusing on her.
"It is an older battle than you imagine, Imperial. Ask your precious Rakha how old it is!" his tone become low and sinister as his next words were uttered with conviction. "The one who leads us will crush the Rakha beneath his heel much as the Empire first crushed us. Start counting now, for your days are numbered, child"
"Enough," Instructor Jarvis's voice broke the tense atmosphere that had built up during the spirits last words. "It is time for the judgement,"
Quickly exchanging words with Janthos and Alia, Elrien discovered they still stood by their earlier judgements and it was still up to her to make the final choice. All three of them glanced back at Jarvis for further instruction and he indicated to the altar on their left. It stood tall, reaching Elriens waist, with an orb resting in the palm of a stone hand, its base embedded firmly in the altars stone surface. Elrien recognised the orb as an orb of judgement, the magical devices used by Imperial courts to punish criminals according to the precepts of Rakha's law. As they approached, the orb began to shine with a brilliant glow and Jarvis beckoned for them to place their hands on its smooth surface. Once all three held contact with the orb it began to glow brighter and soothing warmth overcame Elrien as her gaze was drawn to the wispy form of a nearby wraith, its soft voice seeming to speak within her mind.
"Before you stands the spirit of 'Yakir the Black', a foul murderer whose blood spree claimed the lives of countless subjects of the Empire, women and children included. It lies in you hands, citizens, to determine his spirits fate," Yakir could be heard hissing in the background, a string of curses let loose at Rakhas name. "Currently, almighty Rakha holds the spirit here, safe from the punishments of hell that even the wicked do not deserve. But the emperor will bend his hand to your will, either holding Yakir here for all eternity or sending him to Hell, should you request it,"
Elrien moved her head slightly to the side, the warmth shooting up and down her spine with the movement.
"Let Rakha hold him for all eternity," she murmured, her eyes travelling to meet with the ghostly orbs of Yakir. The spirit howled angrily as his clawed hands reached out towards her, but the cry was cut short and his actions ceased as a beam of light consumed him, returning him to Rakhas spiritual prison. The orbs glow dimmed and a pull Elrien hadn't noticed before that had kept her hand connected with its surface faded, allowing her hand to drop by her side. Behind them she could hear Jarvis pronounce that the judgement was complete and gave the finishing speech to those observing as they retook their places. Once he had finished the observers applauded, some of them yelling congratulations as they were herded out the doors so the crests could be chosen.
Waiting patiently for her turn, she watched as Alia accepted the Redeemer Crest, which allowed her to regeneration and heal, cradling it carefully in her hands as if it may break. Turning to wave it at her parents, she watched as her father put his arms around her mother as a fresh wave of tears began to fall down her cheeks. Next it was Janthos's turn to select a crest. He was torn between the Guardian Crest, which would give protection against both magical and physical blows, and the Enforcer Crest, which would sharpen his blades edge and wreath his weapon in flames. After a little pushing from Alia, he reluctantly chose the Guardian Crest, grumbling to himself as he did. Finally he turned to Elrien, his hand outstretched with each of the Crests balanced in the palm of his hand. Hesitating, her hand hovered in midair before closing over the Redeemer Crest.
"The rite of passage has come to a close," With a bow they were all dismissed.
Elrien turned around when she heard a high pitched squeal, smiling gently as she watched Alia run to embrace her parents clutching the redeemers crest identical to her own.
"It's nice," murmured Janthos as he watched Alia's mother, now near hysterical with her happiness, kissed her daughter on her face wherever there was bare skin.
"Yeah," The wistfulness in both their voices was clear, and they glanced at each other with an understanding smile. An arm suddenly snaked its way around Elreins waist, pulling her into an awkward hug as Janthos's smile grew to a grin.
"Congratulations Alia. I can't imagine them being more proud of you if they tried," Elrien struggled out of her grasp, laughing and watched as she pulled Janthos into a hug next.
"I'm taking my parents to the inn," she said happily, her face stained with tears as she held the hug with the gnome a little longer than she had with Elrien, leaving her hand to linger on his shoulder when she withdrew. "We're probably not going to leave for another couple of days so you must come see me before I leave,"
"Course we will," replied Janthos with a smile.
"Good," she turned to leave, waving a hand over her shoulder before pausing and turning round to grab Janthos's hand. "Come and say hello to them quickly Janthos. They've met Elrien already but they haven't met you yet," Laughing, Janthos allowed himself to be dragged out of the academy by Alia.
"Congratulations Elrien, I'm sure your father will be quite proud of you when he hears of your citizenship. It is quite the achievement after all." Keeping her eyes fixed on Janthos and Alia, Elrien replied in an icy tone.
"So proud he couldn't be bothered to show up?"
"Now, now, Elrien," Turning around, she scowled at Jarvis' patronising tone. "Running a city such as Ghaarak is stressful and time-consuming work. You cant always expect your father to drop everything just for you." Elrien rolled her eyes and walked over to the bench she had earlier been sat at to retrieve her small satchel and hang it on her shoulder.
"I see you remain as stubborn on this subject as ever, so let us drop the matter for now… I have other news which may lift your spirits," She turned to look at him, quirking an eyebrow questioningly. "One of the empires elite organizations seems to have taken an interest in you. It is an honour given to very few of your young age. Though I have rarely been impressed by your wild and unruly behaviour here at the academy, it seems you position as daughter of Magistrate Okaris Dy'mana's has drawn a great deal of attention to you." Elrien snorted and busied herself with putting her Crest in her satchel before replying.
"And who are these people?"
"The shadow guard, a fore in Rakhas direct service. Very little is known about them and I will not bias you with the few rumours I have heard. Suffice to say, their service to the empire has been a shinning light in dark time. Should you succeed, and gain acceptance into the ShadowGuard, you power and renown will be equalled only by your father's,"
"Well, wont that be something," drawled Elrien, fixing Jarvis with a unnerving look. "His annoyance of a daughter will finally have done something he'll have to acknowledge,"
"Your actions reflect the training of the academy," he snapped, annoyed at her flippant demeanour. "As such, I would like for you to make a good impression on the ShadowGuard," Rolling her eyes she began to walk past him to leave the hall.
"Don't worry. It serves me well to make a good impression too,"
"Elrien," pausing she turned around and blinked in surprise as a book was thrust into her hands. "It is the chronicles of our world, Abaran and you will do well to study it. Let it be your guide in all that comes for the lessons of the past are lessons for our future," Nodding, Elrien stared at the item in her hands awkwardly shuffling her feet.
"Er, Thank you," Nodding, Jarvis turned away and began to extinguish the candles around the room.
"I believe Janthos is waiting for you in the doorway," Turning she saw the Gnome give her a little way and she jogged over to him, muttering a goodbye to Jarvis as she went. Reaching his side, he fell into step beside her and they both strolled out into the warm nights air. Light had already faded, bathing the Imperial District in darkness, the only source of light coming from braziers and small glow of the Guardians patrolling up and down. Opposite them Elrien could see the gates of the Imperial Grand Hall standing wide open, a guard placed either side. Through the dimness of light she could make out Giles' form hobbling towards them. Walking to meet him, she smiled at him as he came to a halt, Janthos offering a greeting before wandering over to one of his creations.
"It's finished?" Giles's face fell into one of disappointment as he glanced at the academy behind her.
"'Fraid so, Giles," Reaching out she put a hand on his shoulder. "Thank you for appearing. I'm sorry I made you miss it," He shook his head, a frown on his face.
"Never, Lady Elrien. I am very proud of you, as is your father," With a sigh he stood up straighter and bowed, his tone becoming formal. "I bring news from Magistrate Okaris. He is in counsel with visitors from Emperor Rakha, and apparently a matter of great urgency has arisen. He wishes to send his deepest apologise for missing your graduation ceremony this evening." Elrien sighed and twisted around to glance at Janthos who stared back curiously.
"I win Gnome, Okaris didn't turn up," She could see him mutter something under his breath as she returned her attention Giles.
"He sends his apologies and assures you that he will make it up to you. I'm sorry if I am a bearer of ill news," He bowed again, before allowing his posture to relax as he regarded her with a sympathetic look.
"Ah don't worry Giles. Why should he change now?" Grinning she pulled him into a hug. "I'll be free of this place soon,"
"Indeed. I will see you later at the Imperial Estate, I assume you wish to celebrate with your friend," Nodding she waved at him in goodbye before striding over to Janthos.
"That's a grand idea," she declared, pulling Janthos out of his concentration as he looked up at her in mild annoyance.
"What is?"
"We're going drinking in celebration of our Citizenship!" She eyed his construct warily. The stone giants got creepier by the day with all the little additions he kept adding to 'improve; them.
"Drinking? With you? Hah. No thank you," Chuckling slightly she pushed him in the direction of the Market District, ignoring his protests and struggles.
"I promise I wont get drunk. We'll just play a couple of card games, have a few drinks. I'll even pay for them." He shot her a look over his shoulder.
"You are broke. I know that for a fact. You bought that new armour and crossbow from Tagnar,"
"Oh, right." Elriens steps slowed slightly as she glanced in her homes direction. There was no way Daevan would lend her any money. "Then I shall perform for our drinks!"
"But you hat performing," Elrien blinked and raised an eyebrow.
"No I'm don't. I've been studying it for four years," she waved her hand dismissively. "Don't know where you got that from,"
"You told me you hate it when people ask you to perform,"
"By people I meant my father and he is an ass. But seeing as you are neither I am more than happy to. Besides, you deserve a celebratory drink for all your hard work," The gnome smiled at her gently as she held the tavern door open for him, pausing in the doorway.
"You do confuse me Elrien Dy'Mana. You spend all your time desperately trying to get your fathers attention and then act like you hate it when he gives it to you," He chuckled when he saw her look. "You know its true," Suppressing the urge to roll her eyes she pulled him into the room, the sounds of music and the patrons merry chatter engulfing their senses.
Author note: I am aware that I have relied heavily on the game dialogue in this chapter and for that I apologise but I felt the things covered in the dialogue were key to the story. I'm not overly happy with this chapter, for the reason stated earlier and because I feel I may have given Elrien too many moments to point out she doesn't think her father will come. But please let me know what you think, Reviews and Messages are greeted with love =] Ramen Tree xox