Ch. 33
One Night in Vabbi
"Look out below!"
A warning cry shot out from the rafters and Rakiv looked up just in time to see an oil lamp tumble from a catwalk. In a burst of reflexive speed the ranger skipped forward, her hands darting out to intercept the lamp. The construct of glass and brass proved heavier than she expected but still she succeeded in preventing it from shattering on the floor. The redhead turned her eyes to the catwalk above and frowned disapprovingly at the grip who had fumbled the lamp.
"Sorry missus," the man called, "Be right down to collect that."
Rakiv gave a sigh as she set the lamp down on the stage floor and took stock of her surroundings. A missive had arrived at the Raelesin house early that morning, a letter requesting the guild's presence at a grand playhouse in Makuun. Though Rakiv had attempted to assemble her guild, she found that all of them were attending to other tasks.
Kydar had left to Honur Hill to recruit actors to fill in for the lead parts of their play. Dawn, Margrid and Melonni had gone to contact the Whispers to learn of any developments that might be taking place back in Kourna. Anorah excused herself to make for the cookery where she was still helping to prepare the deserts for Ahmtur's Feast party. Alendra and Anicara had made for the tailors to pick up the group's dresses and suits, and they had taken Koss along to carry all the bags. Thus Rakiv had gone alone to see the playhouse that Norgu had booked for them. Upon arriving she found that Tahlkora had been true to her word, and a stage crew was already hard at work preparing the playhouse for opening night. The ranger strode across the stage, avoiding moving set pieces and ropes as she approached the green clad director who was busy shouting out instructions.
"No, no, no!" Norgu cried, "The closing curtain must be red! Not crimson, not scarlet, not rose, nor fuchsia nor auburn but red! The whole show is ruined if it is not red!"
There were several groans from the stage crew as they set about bringing down the slightly-not-red curtain and prepared to string up another. With an exasperated exclamation Norgu threw up his hands and fainted backwards. He was caught by the burly arms of Goren who stood silently nearby.
"Oh Goren darling how I do suffer for my art!" the thespian moaned, "If only I were not surrounded by ignorant plebeians who have no grasp of the sanctity of the theater!"
"Well this ignorant plebian wants to know how things are going," Rakiv said as she approached.
"Ah!" Norgu suddenly sprang to his feet, "Madame Maelstrom! Delighted, delighted to see you here! I trust you are pleased with the accommodations? This is one of the finest playhouses on Wideway. Normally I book the finest one, only a couple blocks down, but I fear my reputation and purse have suffered as of late."
"This'll do fine," Rakiv said with a nod as she looked around, "We can pack a pretty good sized crowd into here."
"Yes, yes we can," Norgu agreed, "We will be charging a premium for floor seating of course, and the box seats up there will be for our most important guests. In fact that one there on stage-right is where we will seat the Prince."
"So Bokka is coming?" Rakiv inquired.
"He is indeed!" Norgu clapped his hands happily, "I had to have Goren pressure his personal planner a bit, but we have ensured that he will be here. In fact I believe we will be his second show of the night."
"Good, so when does the play start that night?" the redhead asked as she watched a large backdrop scroll down from the rafters.
"Ah, I believe our curtain goes up at nine, on the dot," Norgu nodded, "Oh and speaking of the play, I must say that I loved the piece you selected. Quite jovial but also a poignant look at the trials and difficulties of ruling a province. I feel it captures quite accurately the personage of someone like the Warmarshal of Kourna."
Rakiv stared at Norgu for several moments, blinking with incredulity. Finally she breathed out a sigh and gave a small shrug.
"Sure, whatever you say," she responded with a shake of her head, "So how ready do you think we'll be?"
"By theatrical standards?" Norgu blinked, "Not ready at all. I mean, two days! I am a genius director, but I dare say that even Lyssa herself would be challenged to achieve what you ask of me!"
"But you'll try anyway," Rakiv surmised.
"Of course!" Norgu exclaimed, "An actor never shrinks from a challenge on the stage! Never fear madame, I will put my every effort into ensuring that our cast is prepared!"
"Glad to hear it," the ranger nodded.
"Uhm, speaking of which," the director added, "Where, might I ask, is my cast?"
"I was told that my First Officer is recruiting them," Rakiv replied, "And he'll be sending them over directly. Will you folks be taking a break for the Dance tonight?"
"Absolutely not!" Norgu exclaimed, "Why I should think we will be barely taking a break for sleep, much less such frivolous time wasting like dancing…. Or at least, dancing that is not a part of my choreography. I've blocked out all the dances myself you know. I'm particularly looking forward to this one number where…"
"Yeah, yeah glad to hear that too," Rakiv waved him off, "I just came by to see how things were going. Your actors should be here soon, but go easy on them and do the best you can."
"Never fear, generous benefactor!" Norgu smiled brightly, "We will most assuredly be ready to perform come opening night! I stake my reputation on it!"
"Well that's comforting," Rakiv muttered sarcastically, "Well then I'm going to head out now. They tell me that it's going to take awhile to get ready for the party tonight and I do have a prince to impress."
"Ah, then best of luck to you," Norgu nodded, "I shall remain hard at work turning this charming little work into a masterpiece!"
"Bye, bye Rakiv," Goren smiled, speaking for the first time since the ranger had arrived.
"Later guys, and uh… break a leg," she chuckled.
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The orange rays of a late afternoon sun found Kydar staring over a balcony and down into the festooned basin of the Grand Forum of Vabb. In order to facilitate their role as hosts to the representatives of Dormant Vengance, the Raelesin family had splurged and rented one of the many opulent apartments that sat on the edge of the Forum itself. It had been Mitsuru's idea, and the woman had stated that she did not fancy her guests wandering home half-drunk in the dark. Thus she had convinced her husband to ensure that the party would have somewhere close by to crash after a night of wine and revelry.
"Gotta say, these are nice digs," came the rumbling tones of Koss.
Kydar half glanced over his shoulder as the warrior approached to stare over the balcony as well. The scribe couldn't help but raise his eyebrows in surprise. Commander Dejarin looked as if he had gotten into a fight with the staff of a salon spa… and had lost the battle. He had been confined inside of a well pressed tuxedo, complete with a cummerbund, bowtie and top hat. His usually wild afro had been tamed and slicked back over his head, and it seemed that some frustrated stylist (unable to quite cope with the large scar across the man's left eye) had outfitted him with a monocle as well. The start of a chuckle came from Kydar's lips, which he quickly disguised under a cough.
"What?" Koss demanded.
"Nothin'," Kydar shook his head, trying not to snicker, "You ah… you clean up good."
"I wouldn't be laughing mister purple vest," Koss snorted.
Kydar laughed and gave a small shrug. The scribe had donned a suit of his own, mostly black save for the royal purple vest and neck tie that adorned his starched white shirt. For once Kydar had decided to leave his braids down, and had even managed to get his hands on a brand new pair of sleek, black leather gloves.
"You think that's bad, you should see my mask," Kydar chuckled, "It's over there by my coat."
The warrior glanced over to a large armchair that supported the mage's dress coat, that came complete with long coat tails. The mask itself was half-mask crafted after the Ascalonian Sleek style, and had been colored dark purple with rich golden inlay.
"Huh, going all Specter of the Concert are you?" Koss chuckled.
"Mom wanted me to wear something Canthan, but I thought it was a bit much," the scribe chuckled with a small shrug.
"I see," Koss laughed and nodded, "I think I can get away with just the monocle for now, but I'm sure Melonni will try to make me 'get into the culture' or something similarly silly."
"Yeah what's going on there by the way?" Kydar asked with a chuckle, "For two people who've known each other for forever I'd think you wouldn't fight so much."
"Ever heard that 'familiarity breeds contempt'?" Koss responded with a quirk of his good eye.
"Point taken," Kydar laughed lightly.
" 'Sides, I think I could ask the same about you and our guildmistress," the warrior quipped.
"Could you?" Kydar responded with an arched eyebrow.
"Well word is she went up to your room awful late last night," Koss shrugged, "Kinda makes me wonder."
"I'm afraid to ask to what perverted place you're about to take this conversation," Kydar laughed.
"I'm just saying, and I think I speak for everyone when I say this," Koss nodded sagely, "We would all have a less intense Rakiv to deal with if someone was giving her the old horizontal tango."
"And on that note…" Kydar laughed as he pushed away from the balcony and strode towards the door.
"It's just a matter of science and all that!" Koss protested as he followed the scribe, "It's a known fact that the best way to tame the savage beast that is woman is with wine, roses and that sweet lovin' feelin'."
"Yeeeah," Kydar chuckled as he retrieved his jacket and mask from the armchair, "How about you tell that to Melonni and see what she thinks."
"I have," Koss grinned impetuously, "How do you think I lost my eye?"
At this both men broke into uproarious laughter, with Kydar shaking his head as he slid his arms into his jacket. The scribe took a moment to affix his mask to his face and brush a hand through his newly groomed braids before giving a nod of satisfaction as he straightened his lapels.
"Well I'm gonna go down to sample the finger foods," Kydar said, "Besides we're supposed to meet the girls down there anyway."
"Why not wait for them up here?" the warrior asked.
"Festival tradition," Kydar said as he opened the door and stepped out into the hall.
"Care to explain?" Koss inquired as they made their way through the apartment and down the stairs.
"It's like… bad luck sorta," Kydar said, "Like, you're not supposed to walk in with the women. Even if you have a date, the men and women go down separately. It's supposed to be good luck to meet on the dance floor. Supposedly Lyssa smiles upon chance meetings, 'love-at-first-sight' and all that. So even if you already know who you're going to meet at the Dance, it's still supposed to make Lyssa smile if you meet as if you were strangers."
"Uh… huh," Koss nodded slowly.
"Hey I don't make the traditions," Kydar laughed, "I just follow 'em."
"Well we can still chow down while we wait right?" Koss chuckled, "You know how long those womenfolk take to get dressed unless there's a horde of heket barreling down on them."
"Yeah we can, let's hit the tables," Kydar nodded with a chuckle of his own.
The men made their way out of the apartments and through a small courtyard before emerging onto one of the wide overwalks that looked down into the forum. The Grand Forum of Vabb was a sight to behold on its own. A marvel of architecture to rival the Sebelkeh Basilica, the Forum had once been the seat of power in Vabbi during its early history as a republic. It had been built with great stone tiers that all looked down upon the center. However after the advent of prince hood in Vabbi the forum had been repurposed to be largely decorative. Thus each tier had been remodeled and fitted with aqueducts of marble. On every level of the Forum streams of crystal clear water flowed in a well polished bed of stone. Each stream fed the one below it, until they all gathered into a pristine moat that surrounded the center stage. Each of these streams could be forded by enchanted carpets, thick woven rugs that had been spelled to float and support the weight of anyone who trod upon them. It was thus that Kydar and Koss descended into the center of the Grand Forum, following the carpet bridges to the main sight of the festivities.
"Oh, they put out fire lotuses," Kydar remarked as he watched dozens of glowing white flowers bob about in the waters of the Forum, "I hear that's big in Cantha these days."
"Yeah but they ain't much good if you can't eat 'em," Koss grunted.
"Oh for heaven's sake, the food is over there!" Kydar pointed, "Go and have your fill you glutton!"
"Thank you kindly sir," Koss grinned as he wasted no time in marching off.
Kydar sighed and shook his head as he turned about to continue taking in the sights. Already a few performers had arrived and were busy plying their art. A troupe of tumblers bounded about whilst fire breathers sat atop tall wooden poles, blowing flame up into the darkening sky. Brass lanterns were being lit all across the Forum, filling it with a golden glow.
"Ah hah, there you are my boy," spoke the booming voice of Rubhen Raelesin.
Kydar turned around and chuckled as his father approached. The big man wore the long, ground sweeping dress robes of a merchant, and bore a great many rings on the fingers of either hand. A gilded primeval mask hid his face, though it did little to actually obscure his identity.
"Dad," Kydar smirked, "Hardly recognized you."
"Well I am a well known master of disguise," Rubhen responded with equal sarcasm, "But on a more serious note, have you seen Mitsuru?"
"Not yet, I'm pretty sure the girls are still getting ready," Kydar responded.
"Bah, no matter how I press her that woman is never ready in time for Last Light," Rubhen grumbled, "Honestly how can you miss that? It's the official start of the Festival!"
"Don't know dad, but you know mom, if her obi isn't tied just so then there's no getting her out of the house," Kydar laughed.
"Don't I know it," Rubhen sighed with a note of exasperation.
"As a matter of business though, I don't suppose you've seen the Prince around yet have you?" Kydar asked.
"I believe Mehtu is in his pavilion in the southwestern plaza," Rubhen pointed.
Kydar peered against the fading light of the sun. High above of the Forum stood a group of large tents bearing the seal of the Royal House of Zerranu. The scribe gave a slow nod as he stroked his goatee thoughtfully.
"Well I guess I'll have to find Tahlkora then," Kydar shrugged.
"I did see her highness scurrying about a moment ago," Rubhen nodded, "She seemed rather preoccupied, and there was a tall older gentleman with her. I did not recognize him though, which will be awkward if it turns out that I've done business with him."
"Huh, didn't know the princess had a date," Kydar chuckled.
"All hail and take heed!" the voice of a crier suddenly interrupted.
The preliminary festivities came to a slow halt as every eye turned towards the west. A top one of the tall wooden poles a man in purple and gold jester garb bowed to his audience.
"Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls of all ages!" the jester called out, "Tonight is a night of praise! It is a night in which we revel in all that our great goddess has made! A night when we pay heed to her many glorious gifts! Let there be no temperance or moderation! May you not surrender to discretion or constraint! Delight your senses! Enjoy yourself! Eat, drink, dance, play and make merry in whatever fashion you please! Tonight we frolic beneath the stars in homage to she who gave us beauty! Last Light is upon us and the Dance begins in five…!"
As the last rays of the sun flickered across the sky the crowd took up the countdown chant, calling out the seconds to the fall of night.
"Four! Three! Two! One!" came the cry, before a roaring cheer went up from the party goers.
With a final flash of orange and gold the sun vanished behind the mountains and the sky turned from violet to purple to navy and then to black. A multitude of glittering stars burst to life in the ebony vault of the sky. The jester clapped his hands and a band of minstrels began to play. With the dance officially begun, men began moving across the Forum in search of a dance partner, and several couples took to the floor to begin moving to the minstrels' merry tune.
"And so it begins," Kydar chuckled.
"Well that sounded rather glum of you," a giggle came from behind him.
Kydar turned and blinked in surprise at an extremely dolled up Alendra Soleer. The paragon's curly hair had been pulled down and straightened into a chocolate veil that framed her pretty features. A white corset fringed with lace wrapped around her torso and a fluffy bustle of swan feathers hung about her hips. Thigh high, sheer white stockings covered her legs, and a pair of white and gold heels adorned her feet. A feather boa wrapped around her bare arms and a tiny white bowler cap decorated by a halo of lace had been clipped to her hair. A small gold costume mask sat on her nose and she lifted it away to smile brightly at the scribe.
"It's me!" Alendra laughed.
"Yeah it is," Kydar chuckled, "And can I just say, wow?"
"You most certainly can," the paragon beamed, "Oh and check out Anorah too."
The scribe looked up as the tall woman approached, teetering ever so slightly on her high heels. The normally stoic dervish had been convinced to wear floor length, black qipao that had been embroidered with the image of a long, golden dragon. Her long, almond hair had been drawn back into a flowing tail that now rested over one shoulder. A bracelet of onyx gems adorned her left wrist and matching earrings hung from either side of her head. Ever the pragmatist, a simple mask in the Shing Jea style covered her face, though it had notably been decorated by a trio of black moa feathers that sprouted from above her left eyebrow.
"I gotta admit Anorah," Kydar chuckled, "I never thought they'd get you to dress up."
"The occasion called for formality, so I agreed to dress appropriately," the dervish said with a nod before giving a small frown to Alendra, "Though I do take issue with these highly impractical shoes."
"But you look great in them!" Alendra laughed, "And that's all that matters."
"She's not wrong, you do look great," Kydar complimented.
The dervish gave an exasperated sigh but finally nodded graciously.
"I thank you for your praise," she admitted, "I only hope that the shoes do not impair my ability to dance."
"Oh you'll be fine," Alendra smiled, giving the taller female a nudge with her elbow.
"Any idea where the others are at?" Kydar asked.
"Oh they'll be 'long shortly bookworm," the lazy drawl of Margrid addressed him, "Ye've got ta unnerstand that they're tryin' ta get Rakiv into a dress. An' that there be harder n' surfin' the waves on the back of a sea turtle."
Kydar turned to the pirate who had stepped up next to him. The corsair captain was dressed in a short satin gown of deep crimson, hemmed by black lace. She stood in a pair of matching knee-high boots, while black hose covered her legs. Her hair had been pulled back into a bun that was decorated by two bejeweled chopsticks and she wore a mask crafted after the style of elite Luxon mesmers.
"Looking good captain," Kydar chuckled, "But I thought Rakiv already knew she was gonna wear a dress? She picked one out when we went to the tailor."
"Ah, yes that thing," Alendra shook her head.
"Truth to tell it were a rather drab garment," Margrid nodded, "Nothin' that would turn heads if'n ye know what I mean. So the rest of us girls decided to fix that."
"Or tried any way," Melonni spoke up, "I still wish we'd had more time with her hair, but there was only so long we could hold her down."
The scribe looked up as the Kournan dervish approached, gliding gracefully forward in a gown of deep emerald taffeta. Melonni had forgone her usual beaded braids for two large ones on either side of her head. A pair of ivory hair combs, encrusted with green jewels, supported the heavy hair weaves and the gems twinkled in the golden light. A green and ivory discreet mask covered her eyes which she lifted away as she came to stand with the group.
"Very nice Mel," Kydar nodded with approval.
"Why thank you," the dervish curtsied lightly, "I don't suppose you've seen Koss about have you?"
"He went off to the serving tables," Kydar chuckled, "I'm sure he's still there."
"And here I thought the occasion might actually convince him to act civilized," Melonni sighed and shook her head.
"Well ye know what they say," Margrid grinned, "Ye can take the fish outta the water but ye can't make'im breathe."
"… isn't that because he's out of the water?" Anorah pointed out.
"Aah! There's my handsome boy!" yet another female voice interrupted.
Kydar looked up and brightened as his mother approached. Mitsuru had opted for a flowing silk kimono of royal purple, layered with under robes of white and gold. A wide black obi tied around her waist and had been knotted in an oversized bow at the small of her back. The many bracelets on her wrists and ankles jingled lightly as she approached and embraced her son.
"You look beautiful mom," Kydar smiled as he hugged her in return.
"Oh not half as beautiful as your pretty friends," Mitsuru laughed lightly and gestured behind herself.
Kydar again raised his head to the carpet bridge from whence his mother had come just in time to see Anicara and Dawn step into the center of the Forum. Anicara Nyrin wore a strapless tulle gown of bright sky blue, with accents of deep ocean navy. The wispy material of the dress brushed about her legs, swishing back and forth with her petticoats of cerulean and white. A golden chain hung loosely about her hips and matched the spiral bands of gold that girded her forearms. Her chest, nose and cheeks had been dusted with tiny flecks of blue glitter, and a thin blue ribbon choker supported a sapphire jewel at her throat. The girl's ebony locks had been lifted into a great many waves that undulated atop her head and a Vabbian mask of gold and blue covered her eyes though it did nothing to hide the flush that colored her cheeks.
Dawn had opted for a more imposing look. The necromancer had chosen a provocatively short, strapless cocktail dress in black. Thigh high, black leather boots covered her long toffee colored legs and a black leather collar featuring a silver skull adorned her neck. Several rings adorned her fingers; most of them bearing occultist symbols save for one long ring of finger armor that adorned her left index digit. The necromancer had, for once, taken off her crown-like hair clip and straightened her hair, letting the long snowy locks cascade down her back like an icy water fall.
"Well whatcha think?" Anicara asked with only the faintest hint of anxiousness in her voice.
"Ah you look good!" Kydar responded after he realized he'd stayed silent for a moment too long, "Really good! Both of you."
"Hmhm, thank you handsome," Dawn responded with a small smile, "Though I'm afraid our guildmistress will be the real belle of the ball."
"And where is she?" Kydar asked.
"Oh she's right…" Ani began as she turned around and then frowned, "She was right behind me!"
"She's probably hiding," Alendra laughed as she turned and sauntered towards the carpet bridge, "I'll get her."
The paragon skipped away and ran to the top of the bridge before disappearing behind a large decorative column. All eyes watched her go and every ear craned forward as a heated bout of whispering ensued, barely audible above the music behind them.
"They're waiting!" Alendra insisted.
"I don't care! I look ridiculous!" Rakiv's voice hissed back.
"You do not!" Alendra responded, "Now will you stop being a baby and get out there!"
After a moment of flurried argument the girls fell silent and a low sigh came from behind the column. A soft click of heels preceded the guildmistress as she finally emerged from her hiding place and descended down the floating magic carpet. The ranger was a woman transformed, and a small 'ooo' went up from her assembled guild. Rakiv wore a floor length dress of champagne linen that flowed like an autumn breeze about her legs even as it gently hugged her curves. Her plunging neckline was supported by a single strap that looped around the back of her neck, leaving her back entirely bare. A silver necklace of entwined lilies would around her neck before merging into a single string of silver flowers that dove down her chest. Each tiny sculpted flower supported a winking diamond that matched the diamond trio strings that hung from each of her ears.
The woman's auburn tresses had been set into curls, most of which had been drawn up atop her head and held in place by a multitude of diamond hairpins. Still the sheer volume of the ranger's locks had proven difficult even for the stylist to manage and much of it spilled over her back and shoulders like an enchanting tumult of crimson silk. Her clear violet eyes stared out through a gilded animal mask with accents of wolfish silver that hid much of her nervous blush. It was only with a little awkwardness that Rakiv made it down to the Forum's center, managing not to teeter too much on the strappy heels that now clicked against the paved stones.
"Here I am. Happy?" the ranger demanded.
There were a few quiet giggles from the women as all eyes slowly turned to Kydar. This time the scribe remained utterly speechless, his hazel eyes wide as the vision of beauty approached. It was only when Rakiv raised her fingers and snapped that the mage's trance was broken.
"Dah!" he exclaimed, "Uhm… you… uh… whoa…"
"You okay?" she asked with an arch of her recently plucked eyebrows.
"Yes!" he responded immediately, "Yes I'm good, I'm uh… yeah I'm good."
"Good, cause I need you focused tonight," Rakiv said as she peered past him at the party, "You and Alendra are the ones that have to help me talk to Mehtu, get him to listen to what we have to say."
"Oh come now dear," Mitsuru laughed lightly, "We must not be all business tonight. You've all evening to speak with the Prince. For now you ought to dance!"
"Well, yes we have a few hours but…" Rakiv began.
"Dance!" Mitsuru insisted.
"Okay mom, okay we'll dance," Kydar laughed, "Sounds like the band just struck up the Istani Two-Step anyway. Anybody know that one?"
"Oh I do!" Alendra raised her hand excitedly.
"Well then, shall we?" the scribe chuckled as he offered a gloved hand to her.
"Oh so fancy," the paragon laughed as she accepted his hand, "Yes, let's. I want to see how many times I step on your toes."
Kydar chuckled as he linked Alendra's arm with his own and led the way to the dance floor. Several other couples had already assembled and took their places as the minstrels' music signaled the start of the dance.
"So?" Alendra grinned as she performed a quick ball-change and caught Kydar's hand.
"So what?" the mage asked with a quirk of his brow.
"So what'd you think?" she laughed.
"Oh you look good!" Kydar chuckled as he spun her under his arm, "I thought I said that though?"
"Not me!" Alendra exclaimed as she threw an arm over his shoulder and quickly tilted backwards, "Of Rakiv!"
"Oh!" Kydar responded as he dipped the paragon and brought her back upright, "Yeah she looks… real good."
"Real good?" Alendra laughed as she clasped hands with him again and the pair launched into a quick promenade, "All that fancy schooling and scribery and that's the best you can do? 'Real good'?"
"Well what do you want me to say!" Kydar exclaimed as they reversed direction.
"Well to be honest, all those 'uhm's and 'uh's kind of said a lot," Alendra giggled.
"She looked… beautiful okay?" Kydar finally responded as he released her and raised his hands to clap to the beat whilst stomping one foot, "I mean, you know… just kinda… perfect."
"Oh perfect is it?" Alendra grinned as she waltzed a circle around him.
"Now you're just teasing me," Kydar smirked as he caught her and stepped into another promenade.
"Only a little," Alendra laughed as she followed his lead, "I just think you should tell her that. It took a lot to convince her to wear that dress."
"Then I will," Kydar nodded and chuckled, "Happy?"
"Oh very much so," Alendra giggled mischievously.
With a trill of a flute the dance came to an end and the dancers offered up their bows and applause.
"Thank you for the dance Ms. Soleer," Kydar bowed lightly.
"My pleasure Mr. Raelesin," Alendra smiled as she curtsied in return.
After linking arms once more Kydar led the way off the dance floor and strode back towards his mother who now stood beside the towering form of his father.
"Oh, hey dad, I see you found mom," Kydar chuckled.
"Just as Lyssa would have it my boy," Rubhen chuckled, "Even if she is a bit late," he added with a glance down at his wife.
"Did you have a good time?" Mitsuru asked, ignoring her husband's meaningful glance.
"That we did," Kydar nodded, and then blinked as he glanced around, "Where did everyone go?"
"Oh your guildmistress told them to scatter," Rubhen answered, "They're looking for Princess Mehtani to see if she's come down to the Dance yet. I believe she and Anicara went with Melonni to find your warrior friend though."
"Ah, the food tables then," Kydar nodded and glanced down to Alendra, "Shall we go find them?"
"You go ahead," Alendra smiled, "I want to find Anorah and see if I can convince her to ask a guy to dance."
"Good luck," all three Raelesins chimed in.
Alendra burst into laughter and waved farewell as she skipped off into the crowd. Kydar turned his eyes across the Dance, peering over the heads of the throng in search of any of his fellow guildmembers.
"So I take it you liked Rakiv's dress," Mitsuru spoke up.
"Huh?" Kydar asked as he looked down at his mother.
"Oh don't you 'huh' me mister," Mitsuru laughed, "I know that look you had. It was the same one you had that time in primary school remember? When you had a crush on the fishmonger's daughter? Oh what was her name dear?" she turned to her husband.
"Hrrm that would have been Tahok's little girl," Rubhen nodded, "Elissa I think?"
"Why are we bringing this up now?" Kydar groaned with minor embarrassment.
"Oh I'm just saying, I remember you stared at her the same way you just stared at your guildmistress," Mitsuru grinned brightly.
"Your point?" Kydar asked in an attempt to be evasive.
"Oh I think our point is quite clear son," Rubhen nodded, "This Rakiv girl seems like a fine woman. Strong and tough and all that, just the kind that'll give birth to healthy grandchildren."
"Oh come on guys, not now!" Kydar exclaimed.
"Well your father and I aren't getting any younger you know," Mitsuru put in.
"Lyssa knows that's the truth," Kydar muttered under his breath.
"I heard that mister," the woman glared at her son, causing the scribe to immediately raise his hands in apology.
"No pressure son," Rubhen laughed as he clapped his hand on Kydar's back, "We're just counting on you to carry on the family name is all."
"How is that 'no pressure'?" Kydar asked.
"Hmm, good point," Rubhen nodded and then shrugged, "Well I'm going to take your mother to dance. You have fun around here."
"But not too much fun!" Mitsuru chided.
"Give you grandkids, don't have too much fun," Kydar surmised, "Got it."
"You know what I mean!" Mitsuru called as her husband pulled her away to the dance floor.
Kydar only chuckled and shook his head before he moved to cross the Forum in search of his guild. As he did he took a moment to take in the sights of the spectacle around him. A number of entertainers had lit sparkling fireworks which they swirled and juggled for the entertainment of the crowd. Several dancers and contortionists displayed their agility and skill as they stood atop the high poles and columns around the Forum, moving to the beat of whatever music the minstrels happened to be playing. A high pitched shriek split the night as a trail of sparks ascended into the sky and then burst into a colorful array of flame. Several coos of excitement and surprise went up in response to the fireworks and the sky had become full of them by the time Kydar reached the food tables. He arrived just in time to watch Melonni drag Koss out to the dance floor and he waited for the crackle and booms overhead to lift before he tapped Rakiv's shoulder.
"Any luck finding the princess?" he asked as he leaned down so as not to have to shout over the general din.
"Actually yes," Rakiv said as she half turned her head back over her shoulder, "We spotted her a minute ago and Ani went to bring her over here."
"Ahh gotcha," Kydar nodded slowly before steeling his nerve and clearing his throat, "Rakiv you know… you look really…"
"There you are!" the ever excitable voice of Tahlkora erupted from the crowd before them.
The party goers quickly made a hole, several of them bowing as the princess approached. Tahlkora was bedecked in all the finery of her station, and wore an even more ornate crown than the one they had seen her in the day before. The princess lifted her many skirts as she advanced quickly and smiled brightly at her comrades in arms.
"Wow you two look really good!" she smiled, "Never thought they'd get you in a dress Raki."
"Yeah well, 'when in Orr', as they say," Rakiv shrugged.
"Well I'm glad you agreed, you look fantastic," Tahlkora laughed, "And you look most dashing Sir Raelesin."
"Thanks Tahlk," Kydar laughed and then quickly cleared his throat, "Er, I mean… your highness."
"Oh no, none of that now!" Tahlkora protested, "You can't start calling me that! Promise!"
"Fine, fine we promise," Kydar chuckled and nodded.
"Good," the princess smiled before pausing as her countenance fell a bit, "Uhm… okay so, I didn't know about this until just this morning but… well we have a problem, and it's kind of a big one."
"Oh? What problem is that?" Rakiv asked curiously.
"Princess Mehtani," a cultured voice of deep, rich baritone spoke up, "Aren't you going to introduce me to your friends?"
The minstrels' song dropped to a slow waltz led by a bass cello as Rakiv and Kydar raised their eyes to the man who addressed them. Dressed in an exquisitely well tailored suit instead of his usual armor, the commanding general of the 2nd Kournan Legion was almost unrecognizable. Yet there could be no mistaking his voice or the steely eyes that stared down upon them with all the distinguished nobility and pride of a lion. General Morghan extended his hand to shake and Rakiv barely blinked as she raised her own hand to accept.
"Oh, but it seems that I know them already," Morghan smiled politely.
"How do you do General?" Rakiv asked icily.
"Quite well Miss Maelstrom," Morghan responded pleasantly, "I understand that you are in good health yourself."
"Despite your best efforts I might add," Rakiv answered as she released his hand.
"Mmm, yes I suppose you might indeed," the general smiled, "Though it is quite the coincidence meeting you here. I'd have thought you'd be back in your subterranean palace in Kourna."
For a moment Rakiv hesitated, before deciding that the general was fishing and that if he actually knew the location of their guild hall it would have been assaulted long ago.
"I'm sure I don't know what you mean General," Rakiv responded smoothly, "I am, however, here on business. One of my guildsmen has some pull in this province and I thought I'd explore some opportunities for the guild."
"Guild, is that what you call it?" Morghan chuckled, "I had heard tales that the great Rakiv Maelstrom led a band of marauders and thieves that have long been terrorizing the Kournan countryside."
"I'm sure a man of your advanced… wisdom, doesn't believe everything he hears," Kydar put in.
"Indeed I do not," Morghan smiled as he lifted his eyes to the scribe, "In much the same fashion as I do not believe the rather slanderous reports that your Academy's press has been printing about the Warmarshal."
"I think you'll find it's difficult to argue with the Academy's seal when it comes to credibility of information General," Kydar shot back.
"Difficult, but not impossible," Morghan nodded, his smile never once wavering as he tilted his head towards the minstrel band, "Hmm, I do believe that this song has struck my fancy. I do hope you wouldn't object, Princess Mehtani, if I asked the Lady Maelstrom to dance."
Tahlkora balked for a moment and glanced to Rakiv and Kydar, who could only stare helplessly back. The princess was quiet before she released a tiny sigh and gave a gracious bow of her head.
"I can raise no polite objections General," the princess nodded and then smiled at him as sweetly as she could manage, "But I do hope that you will not be abandoning me for too long. You are, after all, my escort for the evening."
"I shall return to your side post haste, your highness," Morghan bowed lightly before he turned to Rakiv and extended a white gloved hand, "Lady Maelstrom, might I have this dance?"
Rakiv felt Kydar tense behind her and shift his weight, the instinctive posture of a wrathful beast ready to lunge. Before the scribe could voice his own objection the ranger stepped forward and accepted the general's hand.
"I'd be honored," she answered, "I believe that my First Officer has matters to discuss with her royal highness, so let us leave them to it shall we?"
"Indeed," the general responded as he led Rakiv away to the dance floor.
The redhead glanced over her shoulder at Kydar, who was very obviously considering burning the Kournan general to a crisp where he stood. He was stayed by a simple shake of Rakiv's head and the ranger flicked her eyes towards Tahlkora before turning to face the general.
"I understand that you are a bit of a… naturist, but I expect that Gandara did not fail to teach you a waltz or two?" Morghan asked as he took his stance and offered her his frame.
"Among other things," Rakiv said as she placed one hand on his shoulder and her other hand in his.
"Excellent," the general smiled as he took the first steps into the dance, "Truth be told Miss Maelstrom, I have been wanting to have a civilized discussion with you for some time now. After the invasion, I feared the only way I would get it was with you strapped to a torture rack."
"Then your fears are confirmed Morghan," Rakiv responded coldly, "This is not far off."
"Oh come now," the general laughed, "We may be on opposing sides but there is no reason for such personal hostility. To be honest I quite respect you Miss Maelstrom. You have proved a truly cunning tactician and a brilliant leader. Very few people in history can claim to have slain a Kournan General, much less two."
"So you heard about Bayel then," Rakiv surmised.
"That I did, an unfortunate end to a stellar career," Morghan nodded as he spun Rakiv away from him, "Like Kayhet, he will be missed."
Rakiv pirouetted away before spinning back to Morghan and catching hold of his frame once more. The general arched an eyebrow in mild surprise before giving a tip of his head to which Rakiv responded with a small sneer.
"Well no wonder you like me Morghan," Rakiv answered, "With those two gone, seems like I got you a promotion to being the sole general of the Kournan legions."
"Please Miss Maelstrom, I have not such petty ambitions," the general replied, "In fact I have often wondered if you could not be convinced to replace those you have slain."
"Ahh, this is the part where you give the 'join me and we can rule this world' speech hmm?" Rakiv arched an eyebrow at him, "I already heard it from Varesh herself."
"Yes, yes I know but the Warmarshal can be rather heavy handed at times," Morghan nodded, "I only hope to help you see reason."
"And what reason is that Morghan?" Rakiv asked.
"That you will lose this war," the general responded, his voice and countenance hardening, "I am certain that all your small victories lead you to believe that you are winning, that you stymie our efforts and that your sheer resistance will stop the Warmarshal. Were I in your position I might believe the same thing as well."
"I sense a 'but' coming on," Rakiv snorted.
"But you do not know what is coming," Morghan stated flatly, "You have not read the prophecies or seen the visions of the future. You do not know what the Warmarshal is becoming."
"Prophecies are like fate and destiny," Rakiv replied snidely, "They are useful only when you have no alternatives and can be broken if you fight them hard enough."
"You know not the forces you face girl," Morghan said, the slightest edge of a growl entering his voice.
"Neither do you general," Rakiv answered without hesitation.
With a long drawl of the cello the song came to an end and so too did the dance. The dancing partners separated and gave polite claps, bows and curtsies. Rakiv and Morghan did the same.
"Thank you for the dance Lady Maelstrom," Morghan bowed.
"And to you general," Rakiv responded, "Now if you please, excuse me."
The ranger quickly turned and strode away, her crimson curls bouncing with her hurried steps. The throng of departing dancers mingled with those now making their way to the floor, and Rakiv was forced to weave her way through the confusing crowd. Just as she began to lose her bearings a hand alighted on her shoulder and she spun around to find herself facing Anicara.
"Oh, there you are," Rakiv breathed a small sigh, "Where have you been?"
"Rounding everyone up," Ani responded, "When I found Tahlkora with General Morghan she sent me to go find everyone else and tell them about it. Kydar got the full story on what's going on, he's over there with everyone else."
The girl pointed across the Forum to one of the higher tiers where the guild had assembled in a small circle. Rakiv gave a firm nod and immediately set off towards them, crossing one of the floating carpet bridges and making her way up to the Forum's second level.
"So apparently Tahlkora has to stay with him all night," Kydar was saying as the women approached.
"With Morghan?" Rakiv asked as she stepped into the circle.
"Oh, Rakiv," Kydar looked up and then gave a quick nod, "I was just telling everyone that General Morghan is acting as Tahlkora's escort to the dance. Mehtu's ordered her to accompany him the entire night."
"What is that son of a dolyak even doing here?" Koss grumbled.
"Tahlkora said that apparently he's been in Vabbi all week," Kydar sighed, "She didn't know about it sooner because she was dealing with all those legal charges her dad had leveled at her. Also the house arrest thing."
"But what does he want?" Melonni asked worriedly, "Are the Kournans already here? Are we too late?"
"No, apparently Morghan came alone," Kydar said, "Without even a guard escort. He just showed up at Chokin last weekend and requested an audience with Mehtu. He got it and has been a guest of the prince ever since."
"He didn't convince the prince to give him troops did he?" Rakiv asked quickly.
"No, he didn't," Kydar answered, "Tahlkora said she asked her father about that directly. Apparently Mehtu's pacifism still holds. He invited Morghan to remain his guest for the duration of the festival but refused any actual support for Kourna."
"I think that's kind of both good and bad for us," Alendra said thoughtfully.
"How's that?" Koss inquired.
"Well it means that Kourna won't have Mehtu's support, so that's at least one Prince we don't have to worry about," Alendra nodded, "But it also means that we probably don't stand a chance of convincing Mehtu to help us either. He turned down a request from Morghan, who can speak for the Warmarshal, which means he actually has real bargaining power. I kind of doubt Mehtu will listen to us just cause we have 'moral high ground'."
"A fair point," Dawn put in, "Though there are other ways to sway a prince… if we are truly desperate that is."
"If you're thinking of magic, I wouldn't try it," Kydar shook his head, "This is Vabbi, we practically invented the Mesmer profession. The prince will likely be surrounded by talented mesmers who'd fry your mind in an instant if they thought you were trying anything funny like that."
"Well, I'm sure they'd try anyway," Dawn chuckled lightly.
"No magic," Rakiv shook her head, "But we're going to talk to Mehtu anyway, if only to warn him about the invasion. If I know Varesh, Morghan's visit here is as much a courtesy as it is reconnaissance. She's trying to see if she'll have to actually use any manpower to take over Vabbi or if she can take them down with simple deception."
"And also probably to see how ready they are for an attack," Alendra added.
"That too," Rakiv agreed, "Even if Mehtu won't listen to us we have to at least try to warn him."
There were several murmurs of agreement around the circle as all gave nods of their heads.
"Well, Tahlkora said that her father agreed to give us an audience and that he's expecting us at any time," Kydar said, "Some kind of 'open tent' policy. We can just walk up there, tell them who we are and they'll let us in."
"Then there's no time like the present," Rakiv nodded, "Alendra, Kydar and Anorah, you three are with me. The rest of you fan out and try to keep an eye on Morghan. If you can get to Tahlk, tell her to keep him busy and away from the tents as long as she can. Understood?"
"Yes guildmistress," came several voices in answer.
"Good," she responded, "Then let's do what we came here to do. Move."
The party scattered while Kydar, Alendra and Anorah fell in behind Rakiv. The red headed ranger turned her eyes towards the southwestern plaza where the white tarps of the Prince's tents billowed in the evening breeze. With steady clicks of her heels the ranger slowly made her way through the crowds of party goers as she advanced across the Forum's great stone tiers. A pair of royal guards decked out in their dress uniforms stood watch over the entrance to the Prince's pavilion, and didn't move except to turn their eyes toward Rakiv as she approached.
"Name?" one guard asked curtly.
"The Guildmistress Rakiv Maelstrom, Red Huntress and leader of Dormant Vengeance requests audience with the Scholar Prince, Mehtu the Wise," Kydar announced for her.
"Pass," the guard nodded, though didn't bother to gesture as his arms remained steadfast at his sides.
"Was all that really necessary?" Rakiv grumbled to the scribe.
"Yes, yes it was," he chuckled as they passed through the tent flaps.
The pavilion was perhaps the most well decorated corner of the Forum. Ribbons of purple and gold danced across the high canvas ceiling, while similarly colored streamers wound around every tent pole. A troupe of lithe gypsies danced in the center of the pavilion, displaying their grace and flexibility to the tune of a lute and lyre. Only the finest dressed party goers were guests here, and many of them wore the trappings of their lofty stations.
Titans of commerce and lords of banking milled about, watching the show that the prince had provided. Beyond the private dance floor stood a small dais upon which a pair of thrones had been erected. In the largest of these sat Prince Mehtu the Wise. A man in his mid-fifties, the prince's face was one of handsome dignity creased with wrinkles of knowledge and wisdom. He wore neither crown nor circlet, though a sheath of gold had been woven into his goatee. He reclined in robes of white and gold, garments that displayed the wealth that he commanded.
"And there's our mark," Kydar whispered to Rakiv.
"He's actually a little younger than I expected," Rakiv muttered in response.
Kydar only nodded lightly as they watched the gypsy dancers spring back and forth. As the women finished their performance with an impressive series of pirouettes the minstrels finished their song and polite applause sounded through the pavilion. Mehtu himself raised his hands to clap and gave a wordless nod of thanks to the dancers. The gypsies took their bows before quickly rushing off stage to clear the way for the next act. As the dancers retreated the prince raised his eyes and arched an eyebrow across the tent as he locked eyes with one of the few pale-skinned women in attendance. The prince raised his fingers and snapped as he pointed to the empty space to his right. The gesture brought forth a series of servants who carried in chairs and set them up next to the prince's throne. Mehtu gave a satisfied nod before returning his attention to Rakiv and beckoning to her with a wave of his hand.
"That's our cue," Kydar nodded to her.
The ranger blew out a small sigh before smiling as graciously as she could and gliding across the room towards the throne. Her party of three followed suit and they approached with as much reverence as they could muster. Upon reaching the dais Rakiv paused and gave a light curtsey before Mehtu, who in turn rose from his chair and tipped his head lightly to her.
"I had heard that one of whom many tales are told now walked our lands," Mehtu spoke, "It is a pleasure to finally meet the source of such stories. Welcome, Rakiv Maelstrom and all in your company. Welcome to the Dance of Lyss."
"It is an honor to be welcomed to your party Prince Mehtu," Rakiv responded.
"Come, sit," Mehtu nodded as he gestured to the chairs beside him, "I have provided much entertainment for the evening that I hope will be to your liking."
"I am sure that it will be, your highness," Rakiv nodded as she strode to one of the chairs and gracefully took her seat.
The others did so as well and once everyone was seated a juggling troupe made their way into the prince's dance floor. After introducing themselves the jugglers produced a set of swords and began tossing them from one man to the next. The blades sang through the air as the jugglers began to prance in circles, never missing a beat or failing to catch a sword by its hilt. Mehtu watched impassively as he leaned back on his throne.
"Guildmistress Rakiv Maelstrom," Mehtu said abruptly, though he did not take his eyes from the dancing jugglers, "I am a man of science and research. Many who come to my court expect a great deal of show and ceremony but I am not so concerned with such things. Therefore let us speak frankly, that we might be clearly understood. I believe that there is a reason you have arranged this audience with me?"
"There is your highness," Rakiv nodded, keeping her own eyes forward as well, "I am sure you know of my guild and what we stand for."
"I have heard tales, but I would hear it from your lips as well," the prince nodded.
"Your highness I founded Dormant Vengeance to stand against tyranny," Rakiv said plainly, "The tyranny of Warmarshal Varesh. I rallied a remnant of Sunspears along with oppressed Kournan citizenry to stand up to her evil. Dormant Vengeance now exists to stop the Warmarshal's wickedness and save all of Elona from her mad ambitions."
"Strong claims," Mehtu said without hesitation, "I am told that the Warmarshal's aggression in her own lands was sparked by an unwarranted Sunspear invasion. My own sources have confirmed that your Sunspears assaulted Gandara and made war on Varesh Ossa's forces."
"We did your highness," Rakiv answered truthfully, "But only after the Kournans made war upon us. Though they wish to refute our claims, we have strong evidence that the Kournans hired several corsair fleets to assault us and performed demonic summoning rituals on Istani soil. The Council of Istan and the Spearmarshal herself confirmed this."
"Hmm, I see," Mehtu nodded slowly, "I assume your claims of 'wickedness' are attributed to these demonic summoning rituals?"
"They are, your majesty," Rakiv confirmed, "I myself have witnessed the Warmarshal summoning many demons into our world. Half her army is made up of demons now, and she has used many of them to bring harm to Elona."
"And of what harm do you speak, guildmistress?" Mehtu asked.
"We have seen many corruptions of the land in Kourna," Rakiv said, "But I am sure that you have heard of her attack on the Elon?"
"Mmm, yes my daughter spoke of this," Mehtu allowed with a slow nod, "And my priests saw many strange portents in the water of that holy river. You claim that Varesh attempted to foul the Elon?"
"Not just foul, highness, but to destroy," Rakiv corrected lightly, "Her demon, the Drought, was supposed to drink the river dry. The Elon would have been gone completely."
Mehtu gave a slow nod as he silently watched the jugglers continue to perform. They had gone from tossing flaming batons back and forth to juggling heavy steel balls decked with razor sharp spikes. There were several small gasps from the crowd whenever it seemed that a juggler might miss his catch, yet the performers never missed a beat.
"So you come to petition me for aid," Mehtu surmised, "You hope that I will support your fight for freedom?"
"Begging your pardon, your highness, but no we do not," Rakiv responded quickly.
At this Mehtu paused and finally turned to look at the red head who met the prince's surprised gaze unblinkingly.
"We come to warn you," she continued, "My intelligence has warned me that Kourna has been massing its army at Jahai for weeks now and that soon they will march on Vabbi. The Warmarshal wishes to obtain your surrender, and if she cannot do so through politics she will do it by force."
"Varesh will attack Vabbi?" Mehtu questioned, "You strain credulity guildmistress."
"In the spirit of speaking frankly, your highness," Rakiv said as she straightened her posture a little more, "But why are you more willing to believe that the Warmarshal has summoned demons than you are willing to believe that she will invade your territories?"
"Because, guildmistress, it is an illogical move," Mehtu answered her, "I have no doubt that Varesh must have committed grave transgressions to provoke Kormir into an invasion. There has been peace between the provinces for centuries. Kormir would not throw it away lightly and neither would Varesh. Therefore it stands to reason that one of them committed grievous acts against the other to start a war. However, if Varesh is embroiled in war with Istan then she has not the manpower to stage an invasion against Vabbi. Her forces would face a three-fold army, and the invasion would be put down before it reached so far as Vehtendi Valley. Warmarshal Ossa is of a keen tactical mind and she would not weaken her position in this manner."
"If I might refer you to my tactician, she can explain…" Rakiv began.
"Guildmistress Maelstrom," Mehtu interrupted, "I have entertained similar conversations with General Morghan of Kourna only two days ago. He too made strong accusations against your guild and the Sunspears. I tell you now what I told him. Your war is your own. I will not allow my good men and women to be drawn into a civil war that will only bring more death to our nation. A wise man does not involve himself in the disputes of others."
"Perhaps a wise man does not, highness," Rakiv replied, her voice growing stern, "But when the weak and the innocent are threatened by the wicked, then a good man does."
A hush fell over the tent as all eyes turned to the throne. The guildmistress' challenge had been loud enough that all present had heard it and even the minstrels ceased to play in the half-frightened calm that ensued.
"Hooo boy…" Kydar muttered under his breath.
"You are bold, Rakiv Maelstrom," Mehtu spoke, "Once all of Kourna told of the courage displayed by you and those of your order. I have entertained your claims because I find it curious that one who once defended her province would then turn against it. I hear the ring of truth in many of your words, but I am not a man easily provoked to action. My armies will remain where they are, defending the peace and order of Vabbi. I cordially wish you better luck with my fellow princes. May Lyssa smile upon you."
Rakiv frowned at the dismissal and opened her mouth to object before Kydar caught her arm and shook his head. The ranger frowned at him for a moment before noticing the royal guards who had begun to step forward out of the crowd. A flash of annoyance passed over her face as her instinct began to plot how quickly and efficiently she could take each guard down, before better sense prevailed and she slowly rose to her feet.
"I thank you for your time Prince Mehtu," the ranger said with a light curtsy.
With no further words the ranger turned on her heel and strode away towards the tent exit, her heels clicking against the stone as she went. Her company followed suit and as they filed out of the tent the minstrels within slowly began to play again as a new group of performers made their way to the center of the pavilion. The tent flap dropped closed behind them and the guards stepped in front of the entrance and stared sternly at the four guildsmen.
"Enjoy the party ma'am," one of them said curtly, an obvious suggestion for them to keep moving.
"Would that I could wish you the same, guardsman," Anorah spoke up a bit snappishly.
Her three companions turned surprised eyes to the dervish who only cleared her throat lightly and stared back at them impassively.
"Whoa…" Alendra giggled a little as they began to walk away, "I don't think I've ever heard you snap at someone Anorah."
"The prince calls himself wise and yet he will not see reason," Anorah said flatly, "I have little patience for men who hide their heads in the sand like frightened moa and call it 'wisdom'."
"You and me both Anorah," Rakiv chuckled as they made their way across the upper rim, staring down into the vast party that continued in full swing on the lower tiers, "Well I guess we sort of wasted our time tonight. I had hoped that Mehtu would at least prepare his borders or something."
"It's not going to be good when Varesh invades," Alendra said slowly, "If she catches them completely unprepared, a lot of people are going to die."
"We still have two princes left," Kydar put in, "And Ahmtur is more militarily minded. We might be able to convince him to prepare for an invasion."
"After Mehtu's response though, I can't help feeling we'll just be wasting our time with Bokka," Rakiv sighed as she toyed with the bracelet at her wrist.
"If Prince Bokka is the man of extravagance he is said to be…" Anorah suggested, "Perhaps he might be persuaded if we paint a clear threat to his wealth?"
"Mmm… maybe," Rakiv nodded slowly and then sighed, "Well I got all dressed up for nothing tonight, so if you don't mind I'm going to go back to the apartment and get out of these ridiculous shoes."
"Oh come on Rakiv, don't be like that!" Alendra protested, "We can still enjoy the party."
"She's right, actually," Kydar spoke up to support the paragon, "This night doesn't have to be a waste. There's still something to be said for taking the time to enjoy ourselves."
"Haven't we been doing that for the last three days?" Rakiv chuckled wryly, "I think, all the soft beds and good food are getting me off my game anyway."
"No you've had us working for the last three days," Alendra stuck her tongue out at her guildmistress, "But we're done working for tonight. We should all kick back and have some fun."
"Well you guys can go and have your fun," Rakiv chuckled, "But I'm out."
"No, you're not," Kydar chuckled.
"Oh?" Rakiv asked as she adjusted her mask, "And why's that?"
"Because," Kydar said as he extended a hand to her, "You're going to dance with me."
"Really?" the red head laughed, "You call that an invitation to dance?" she asked with a smirk.
"Would you prefer that I bow and flourish and ask all fancy?" the scribe snorted at her.
"Actually… yes, yes I would," the ranger grinned impetuously.
Kydar quirked an eyebrow at her before he gave a sigh and a small shrug. Crossing one foot behind the other he swept back his coat tails and bowed low before her, extending one arm up as if to offer her his hand.
"Rakiv Maelstrom, would you do me the great honor of accompanying me to the floor for a dance?" the scribe inquired.
For a moment the ranger stared at him in surprise, before she burst into laughter. However, the other two girls stared at her so expectantly that Rakiv hesitated before finally giving a sigh and a nod.
"Well since you did ask properly I guess I have to," she relented as she placed her hand in his outstretched one, "Lead on, oh dance master."
"We'll see you girls later," Kydar chuckled as he rose to his feet again and turned to lead the way down to the dance floor.
"Have fun!" Alendra giggled as she waved to them.
Rakiv followed the scribe's lead as he meandered down across stairways and bridges to the center of the Forum. Many other couples had congregated to the dance floor as the minstrels struck up the quick and severe introduction to the Krytan Tango. Kydar arched a questioning brow at Rakiv as they stepped on to the floor. The ranger returned his wordless query with a light snort, not about to back down from the notoriously difficult dance.
"As you wish, Miss Maelstrom," Kydar chuckled as he bowed.
"That I do, Mister Raelesin," Rakiv smirked.
The scribe slid a hand around her waist, catching her at the small of her back as Rakiv placed one hand on his shoulder and the other in his palm. At a rapid signal from the violin, the dance began. Kydar stepped forward, a quick movement which Rakiv echoed effortlessly. The archeress bent back and then popped forward as Kydar drew her back to him and led her into a slow and deliberate caminito walk. An amused smile crossed Rakiv's face as she never once looked down, maintaining eye contact with the mage even as she flowed through the steps. The walk ended in a corrida run, before Kydar swept Rakiv's foot, causing the ranger to lift her leg up to his hip. Kydar's hand caught her at her knee as he dipped her back and then snapped her back up.
"Huh, well I'll admit," he chuckled, "I didn't expect you to know how to dance."
"What? A girl can't kick ass and dance too?" Rakiv chuckled as she leaned into the scribe.
Kydar stepped backwards as Rakiv held her thigh hooked over his for support, her free leg trailing gracefully behind her. A quick pull drew her back to her feet and the archeress performed a rapid twist of her hips before they launched into a walk again.
"Well I guess she can," Kydar responded, "But seeing as you were brought up by warrior priests, I didn't think dancing would be part of your curriculum."
"You'd be surprised what was part of my 'curriculum'," the ranger smirked, "But I was trained as a dervish, dancing comes naturally with the profession."
"Oh?" Kydar asked.
A long drawl of the violin instructed the dancing pairs to lean, the women relying on their men for support as more than a few nearly swept the ground with their hair. Kydar stepped left and Rakiv hooked her thigh over his once more, sliding nearly into splits before the scribe pulled her upright once more. With a toss of her head the ranger pushed her hand against the mage's chest and strode towards him, walking the elementalist backwards as she grinned lightly.
"More than any other form of fighting, dervish fighting is a dance," Rakiv explained, "It makes you have to keep moving at all times, always spinning to keep up the scythe's momentum. Each sweep is graceful but powerful, every swing delicate yet devastating. Teaching us actual dances was just a way to get our heads around that idea."
"Still, Krytan Tango?" Kydar questioned.
"Oh that was actually Kormir's idea," Rakiv laughed as she spun to press her back to her partner.
Kydar caught her by her hips as they strode backwards in perfect sync, Rakiv's hips giving little twists and shimmies with every motion.
"She got us all to help her learn it for a big formal thing that we had with the dervish school on the other side of the temple," the ranger laughed lightly, "I was about thirteen at the time. It was all so she could impress some boy who was top of his class over there."
"Really? Kormir trying to impress a guy?" Kydar chuckled, "Somehow I just don't see it."
"She's tough as a commander, but Kormir has always been a lot more girly than me," Rakiv laughed as she whipped around to face him, resuming their dancing form once more, "I remember that we learned out of a book that she found in the temple library, it had pictures with all the dance steps. Varesh and I did our best to help her, and spent lots of time working out the steps on our own so we could show her how to do it. Kormir had a great arm, but gods was that girl clumsy on her feet back then."
The ranger gave a light laugh which Kydar echoed as they reversed direction to stride slowly across the dance floor.
"Yurukaro finally came up with the idea to make a training exercise out of it," Rakiv reminisced, "She set up a bunch of wooden posts and made us dance on top of them. Kormir would have to make every step be snappy and precise if she didn't want to fall. She fell a lot that day," the ranger laughed and smiled, "But she eventually got it. When the dance came she plucked up her courage and asked the boy to dance and they looked great together."
Kydar noted for a moment that the ranger had seemed to relax from her perfect posture, leaning into him further as her head came to rest against his chest. Her feet continued to keep time and pace with him though the scribe too found his movements slowing down.
"I remember being kinda envious though," Rakiv chuckled softly, mostly to herself, "I did a few dances with Varesh and Karo but I kept wondering what it'd be like to have a boy ask me to dance."
To this Kydar said nothing even as the music came to an end as quick and severe as its start. The pair failed to follow the music, and as the other dancers on the floor gave their applause Rakiv blinked as she realized she had stopped dancing and was simply leaning against the scribe. She raised her head to look up at him and began to clear her throat before she caught the look in his eyes. Kydar still said nothing, his bright hazels simply staring down at her. Rakiv frowned in light confusion for a moment, before a strange prickle raced down her spine. There was something in his gaze, something that was rapidly giving her goosebumps.
"You look perfect Rakiv," Kydar said softly, "I can think of a goddess or two that would be truly envious of you tonight."
The flush that crossed the ranger's cheeks nearly turned her face as red as her hair as she opened her mouth in an attempt to respond. When nothing came she found herself simply staring up at the scribe, and at his lips which seemed to be slowly drawing ever closer to her own.
"Mind if I cut in?" chimed a melodic and familiar voice.
Rakiv blinked and jerked a little stiffly as she turned her head to find Anicara Nyrin standing next to them smiling brightly.
"I asked them to play the Shiverpeak Swing next, which is strangely the only dance I know," the young hydromancer laughed lightly.
Rakiv stared at the girl as it took a moment for her words to register before she glanced back up at Kydar and then slowly pulled away from him. The scribe's hands slid from her hips and the ranger cleared her throat as she gave a nod and then smiled at Anicara.
"He's all yours," she answered, "Just don't get too flashy you two. I know how you magic types like to start showing off your spells at parties."
"I promise no casting while dancing," Anicara laughed.
"I… make no such promises," Kydar managed a grin as he recovered himself as well.
"Well just don't burn the place down," Rakiv chuckled as she shook her head, "I'll see you guys later."
"Bye Raki!" Ani waved as the ranger made her exit from the floor.
As Rakiv hurried away she could feel her cheeks burning, and the cool night air seemed to be doing little to cool them down. For once she found herself thanking her lucky stars for the interrupting habits of her guildmates. If it hadn't been for Ani she might have… The ranger immediately shook her head. She didn't have time for that nonsense; she was probably just worked up from the dance. After all, the Krytan Tango was intense. All she needed was to splash her face a little and find a good drink. Focused on her determination to snatch the biggest bottle of alcohol she could find the ranger meandered through the party on her way back to the Raelesin's apartment.
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Midnight had come and gone by the time Kydar and Anicara found their way back to the apartment. One by one the guild had drifted away from the festivities to rest up for the tasks they would face tomorrow. Kydar and his apprentice had found great amusement when the scribe attempted to teach Ani the Beetletun Samba and then the Nebo Salsa. Though there had been several trips and missteps the girl had at least learned the basic rhythms before they finally gave up. After stealing a bottle of champagne the two had met up with Alendra and Anorah as they finally made their way out of the party. Once at the apartment the dervish and the paragon went their separate ways while Kydar made for the balcony with Anicara in tow.
"Oh come on, I can have champagne!" Anicara whined as Kydar worked at the bottle's cork, "Besides we're not supposed to be moderate or uh… or something else that the jester guy said that means that I can have a drink!"
"Hah!" Kydar cried in triumph as the bottle cork finally popped free, "You sure you can handle it? I don't want you to turn out to be a lightweight and get all tipsy after only one sip."
"I am not a lightweight!" Ani protested with a huff.
"Fine, fine!" Kydar laughed as he set two glasses on the stone rail of the balcony and began to pour, "But if you wake up all hung over, it won't be my fault."
"Hung over? From champagne?" Anicara asked with an arched eyebrow.
"Doesn't take much when you're a lightweight," Kydar grinned.
"I am not a lightweight!" the young mage stomped her foot indignantly.
"We'll see about that," the scribe laughed as he offered her one glass.
Despite her pout the girl accepted the glass and stuck her tongue out at him before she lifted it to her lips and took a sip. She gave a little high pitched sound as she wrinkled her nose at the bubbling and Kydar laughed as he took a sip of his own.
"Oh my gods what is that?" she squeaked once she had swallowed.
"It's what happens when you put glittering dust into alcohol," Kydar laughed as he took another sip, "I think they call it 'carbonation'."
"It tickles!" Ani giggled before she took another sip.
"I think it's supposed to," Kydar chuckled as he leaned against the balcony railing and stared out at the Forum.
Down below the party was still going in full swing, as dancers and performers and party goers continued to revel in the merriment of the Dance. Fireworks fired intermittently into the sky, bursting in brilliant flashes that threw multicolored illumination over the Forum. Kydar watched a burst of blue and green crackle in the sky as he took another sip and glanced to his right as Ani came to rest against the rail next to him.
"Now that is what I call a party," the girl smiled as she watched the fireworks.
"Well you know what they say, 'There ain't no party like a Vabbian party'," he laughed as he sipped at his glass, "This'll go on until dawn, then everyone sleeps in and then gets ready for the Feast parties tomorrow night… or rather, later today I guess since it's after midnight," he added with a chuckle.
"It's amazing," Ani said with a note of awe in her voice, "Even the harvest festivals back in Pojahelon were never this big."
"Yeah well, extravagance and spectacle is one thing that the Princes know how to do well," Kydar nodded, "I for one am glad we got to party. It's good to be able to have fun, dress up and look pretty every once in awhile."
"You think I look pretty?" Anicara blushed with a small giggle.
"Well of course I do," Kydar chuckled as he looked down at his apprentice, "In fact I'm pretty sure I saw the sultana of Yahnur giving you dirty looks cause her escort wouldn't stop staring at you."
Ani laughed and blushed a little further as she took a quick swig of her champagne and swallowed before looking back up at her mentor.
"I really like your mask, can I see?" she asked as she reached one hand up towards his face.
"Hmm?" Kydar blinked as he half turned his head towards the sound of footfalls from the halls within the apartment, "Oh yeah, sure," he nodded as he turned back to Ani and leaned down.
The young mage lifted her fingers to his mask and paused as her bright blue eyes locked with his. A firework screeched into the sky and as it burst in a halo of brilliant blue a sudden impulse coursed through her. It was an easy move, almost a natural one, as if it were simply the next instinctive step to take. With an easy shift the young mage leaned up to the scribe and her lips suddenly pressed to his.
"Oh Kydar, thought I heard your voice…" came a slow, rather odd drawl from the balcony door way, "I was lookin' for…"
The voice stopped and Kydar pulled away from his student, his eyes wide with surprise and shock. Ani stared back, her own eyes wide as she suddenly realized what she had just done. Their gaze broke when they both turned to look towards the door way at the speaker. A half drunk Rakiv Maelstrom stood at the entrance to the balcony, her shoes in one hand and a mostly empty bottle of Krytan Brandy in the other. The red head stared at them for a long moment as the bottle slipped from her fingers and hit the floor with a heavy clang of thick glass against stone.
"Never uh…. Nevermind," the ranger whispered as she turned on her heel and quickly strode back into the apartment, the length of her champagne dress whispering behind her.
"Rakiv!" Kydar exclaimed as he pushed away from the balcony, "Rakiv wait!"
The scribe rushed back into the apartment just in time to see the train of her dress disappear down the stairs. He rushed after her, tripping down the stairs and barely catching himself on the banister. The ranger pushed out the front door and threw it shut behind her. Kydar was not far behind and seized the handle to throw the door open.
"Rakiv!" he cried.
Only the boom of a crimson firework answered him as he stared out into the darkness of the lane outside. The ranger's strappy shoes lay discarded on the pavement in front of him, yet there was no sign of the woman herself. Kydar bent down to collect the pair of heels and glanced around desperately for any trace of the vanished redhead. A slow dejected sigh left his lips as he turned back inside and slowly shut the door behind him. He looked up at the blue clad elementalist girl that stood at the top of the stairs, and Ani stared back with eyes wide and her cheeks pink with embarrassment. Kydar returned her gaze for a long moment before he breathed out a slow sigh. A thunderous report echoed through the house as Kydar finally turned away and strode off to his room, leaving Ani to stand alone as fireworks flashed behind her in the night sky.