The great Vothyl Sylian caravans had started their journey days ago, using borrowed maps and foreign ideas on how to travel. The large, blizzard resistant cloaks covering the many wagons as they journeyed towards the lands of the Terel'Liren, the only nation that the reclusive species had sought after themselves. Others had requested bonds to be made, and were only being reviewed out of niceness, and the wish of not making enemies as they appeared on a global scale.
The Terel'Liren were different though, people unique in the winter blind eyes of the Vothyl Sylians. The caravans moved onward, towards the agreed upon capitol, where their meeting was to take place. Normally all the caravans were not necessary, but the Terel'Lirens seemed interested in magic, and magic was a complicated procedure for the pale people. Such secret information, taught only deep within the eternally exclusive walls of Vothyl Syl, simply could not be sent without proper protection.
Of course, while the Vothyl Sylians did not expect any bandits or renegades to try and sack their caravans, it never hurt to be careful if they had managed to attract a more violent, well organized group. Many of the caravans held food, water, and items and medicines to treat heat stroke and other temperature related illnesses that no doubt plagued the less heat resistant members of the caravans. Others though, more closely guarded, help books, runes, items of great magical and religious importance to the Vothyl Sylians.
Within the same Caravans sat high ranking magic users of Vothyl Syl, wearing specially designed robes, masks unlike any other, each unique and meant only for its owner. These magic users were the only members of the traveling caravans to not wear heat-resistant magical gear, as they had a mastering of such arts that they could simply hold a similar effect with a wave of their hands.
As word had spread of the oncoming expedition to discuss bonds in the foreign lands, many soldiers tasked with coming brought forth news of their children, both older and younger who either had no other relatives, or were seeking a career in magic or diplomacy. Understanding the needs of its citizens and soldiers, representatives had allowed for a number of small families to accompany the caravan, given that the older, mature members took jobs that supported it.
Children, maskless and with immature horns sat upon the great caravans, watching their parents and the soldiers. While outsiders wouldn't be able to tell the numberless members apart, if one were to talk to a child, the child could give direct names, simply by pointing out the antlers of someone. Supposedly there was a notable difference between the antlers of male and female Vothyl Sylians, though, this was only a rumor rarely discussed by actual Pale People, and even if it was true, it was only obvious to other members of the same species.
Approaching the city, the meeting place that was agreed upon, the caravans slowed, stopping in a circle formation, with children and families within, as well as the more important caravans. Awaiting the diplomats of Terel'Liren, the caravans remained communicating among itself, members of it only going out to explore the immediate area, and to heard after adventurous children.
The Terel'Liren were different though, people unique in the winter blind eyes of the Vothyl Sylians. The caravans moved onward, towards the agreed upon capitol, where their meeting was to take place. Normally all the caravans were not necessary, but the Terel'Lirens seemed interested in magic, and magic was a complicated procedure for the pale people. Such secret information, taught only deep within the eternally exclusive walls of Vothyl Syl, simply could not be sent without proper protection.
Of course, while the Vothyl Sylians did not expect any bandits or renegades to try and sack their caravans, it never hurt to be careful if they had managed to attract a more violent, well organized group. Many of the caravans held food, water, and items and medicines to treat heat stroke and other temperature related illnesses that no doubt plagued the less heat resistant members of the caravans. Others though, more closely guarded, help books, runes, items of great magical and religious importance to the Vothyl Sylians.
Within the same Caravans sat high ranking magic users of Vothyl Syl, wearing specially designed robes, masks unlike any other, each unique and meant only for its owner. These magic users were the only members of the traveling caravans to not wear heat-resistant magical gear, as they had a mastering of such arts that they could simply hold a similar effect with a wave of their hands.
As word had spread of the oncoming expedition to discuss bonds in the foreign lands, many soldiers tasked with coming brought forth news of their children, both older and younger who either had no other relatives, or were seeking a career in magic or diplomacy. Understanding the needs of its citizens and soldiers, representatives had allowed for a number of small families to accompany the caravan, given that the older, mature members took jobs that supported it.
Children, maskless and with immature horns sat upon the great caravans, watching their parents and the soldiers. While outsiders wouldn't be able to tell the numberless members apart, if one were to talk to a child, the child could give direct names, simply by pointing out the antlers of someone. Supposedly there was a notable difference between the antlers of male and female Vothyl Sylians, though, this was only a rumor rarely discussed by actual Pale People, and even if it was true, it was only obvious to other members of the same species.
Approaching the city, the meeting place that was agreed upon, the caravans slowed, stopping in a circle formation, with children and families within, as well as the more important caravans. Awaiting the diplomats of Terel'Liren, the caravans remained communicating among itself, members of it only going out to explore the immediate area, and to heard after adventurous children.
Marah breathed deeply of the air, tasting it and feeling it. Mainland air was so strange to her, without any of the sea's smell. This whole kingdom glowed with magical power! Marah could not wait to begin speaking with the royals of this beautiful land.
A letter had been sent to Terel'Liren in a common tongue that an Archaian emissary would be arriving, a week prior, and so Marah arrived as declared, at the Capital city. But how to make it memorable?
Marah smiled. She was at the edge of the city. Nobody had seen her yet. She pulled a lute from her back and considered for a moment. Putting her fingers to the strings, she played a melody as beautiful as it was subtle. After a few measures, she began singing, her voice intertwining with the music, weaving inwards and out, making even the sometimes rougher speech of the Archaians sound graceful and smooth, angelic in its beauty. The lute's song split, and suddenly it sounded as if two instruments were playing, harmonizing and making even the birds stop in their song to listen. As her words lilted through the earth around her, the words took shape. Out of nothing came matter and life. Marah's magic created, and it created beauty.
Before Marah stood a majestic beast, almost like a blue dragon but feathered like a bird. It was a creature of Archaian myth, called the Harrekh. Marah grinned like a schoolgirl and jumped on top of it. The Harrekh walked, proudly, chirping in a high and rich voice as it walked through the town. Marah rode atop it all the way to the palace before stepping off and letting it fly away (To Archaia, as she instructed it with a few words of Old Archaiam) before approaching the gate and speaking.
"I am Marah MacKeely, Kah-Lahre and General of the Fourth Swordsmen division in Archaia. I was preceded by a letter declaring my arrival."
A letter had been sent to Terel'Liren in a common tongue that an Archaian emissary would be arriving, a week prior, and so Marah arrived as declared, at the Capital city. But how to make it memorable?
Marah smiled. She was at the edge of the city. Nobody had seen her yet. She pulled a lute from her back and considered for a moment. Putting her fingers to the strings, she played a melody as beautiful as it was subtle. After a few measures, she began singing, her voice intertwining with the music, weaving inwards and out, making even the sometimes rougher speech of the Archaians sound graceful and smooth, angelic in its beauty. The lute's song split, and suddenly it sounded as if two instruments were playing, harmonizing and making even the birds stop in their song to listen. As her words lilted through the earth around her, the words took shape. Out of nothing came matter and life. Marah's magic created, and it created beauty.
Before Marah stood a majestic beast, almost like a blue dragon but feathered like a bird. It was a creature of Archaian myth, called the Harrekh. Marah grinned like a schoolgirl and jumped on top of it. The Harrekh walked, proudly, chirping in a high and rich voice as it walked through the town. Marah rode atop it all the way to the palace before stepping off and letting it fly away (To Archaia, as she instructed it with a few words of Old Archaiam) before approaching the gate and speaking.
"I am Marah MacKeely, Kah-Lahre and General of the Fourth Swordsmen division in Archaia. I was preceded by a letter declaring my arrival."
From the southern passage into Terel'Liren, perhaps a few kilometers from Rimni a lone rider was spotted upon what looked to be a black, armored horse. From a distance very few details could be discerned about the rider, save that he was armored and riding fast towards the passage. If any of the Terelians observing him were adept at sensing magic (Which, presumably the vast majority were.) then they would be able to sense that whomever was approaching the gate reeked of magical energy, however as he approached it was apparant that he carried no weapons , there was nothing slung over his shoulder, no scabbard in his belt.
First Deathlord Grey had been sent to Terel'Liren for diplomatic purposes mainly concerning magic and knowledge, however the council was hoping that they would perhaps be able to further the negotiations to other areas that would benefit them both. Although a physical alliance may be entirely out of the question due to the councils blatant use of the term "Subjugate the living" there are still hopes among the saner members of the council that some form of agreement could be met.
Once he had come within 50 feet of the Terelain border crossing the rider slowed his mount to a trot, nearing the gate far slower then his previous gallop across the plain. There was no retinue that traveled with the rider, and there was not a single creature following behind him. The rider adjusted his gauntlets and continued to ride forward until he was either requested to halt, or was otherwise spoken to. Until that moment he would continue to advance as nothing more then a armored man who reeked of magical power. He made no attempt to introduce himself until he was spoken to either, whistling a slightly haunting, yet oddly cheery tune as he rode his mount to the gates.
As he got closer to the gates more and more details would be apparent about both rider and mount. For one, the horse stood at 16 and a half hands tall, while the rider appeared to be between 6 and 6'8, his armor and cloak concealing the majority of his bodily features, and his armor covered the rest. On the back of his cloak was a unique insignia. The cloak was black, and the insignia was a dark scarlet, which depicted a two-handed blade embedded into a skull. (The mark of the First Deathlord) The armor itself was dark and imposing, seeming to have been hade with two purposes in mind, protection of the wearer and the intimidation of both friend and foe alike. On the gauntlets were multiple thin slits that were open, their purpose currently unknown.
First Deathlord Grey had been sent to Terel'Liren for diplomatic purposes mainly concerning magic and knowledge, however the council was hoping that they would perhaps be able to further the negotiations to other areas that would benefit them both. Although a physical alliance may be entirely out of the question due to the councils blatant use of the term "Subjugate the living" there are still hopes among the saner members of the council that some form of agreement could be met.
Once he had come within 50 feet of the Terelain border crossing the rider slowed his mount to a trot, nearing the gate far slower then his previous gallop across the plain. There was no retinue that traveled with the rider, and there was not a single creature following behind him. The rider adjusted his gauntlets and continued to ride forward until he was either requested to halt, or was otherwise spoken to. Until that moment he would continue to advance as nothing more then a armored man who reeked of magical power. He made no attempt to introduce himself until he was spoken to either, whistling a slightly haunting, yet oddly cheery tune as he rode his mount to the gates.
As he got closer to the gates more and more details would be apparent about both rider and mount. For one, the horse stood at 16 and a half hands tall, while the rider appeared to be between 6 and 6'8, his armor and cloak concealing the majority of his bodily features, and his armor covered the rest. On the back of his cloak was a unique insignia. The cloak was black, and the insignia was a dark scarlet, which depicted a two-handed blade embedded into a skull. (The mark of the First Deathlord) The armor itself was dark and imposing, seeming to have been hade with two purposes in mind, protection of the wearer and the intimidation of both friend and foe alike. On the gauntlets were multiple thin slits that were open, their purpose currently unknown.
While Grey himself was not highly familiar with the Terelain body language his years of doing exactly what he did now,riding up to gates in full armour but bereft of a weapon ,he knew when the living were uneasy . Last time he made a similar trip there was a similar response, guards getting nervous and assuming that he had some warlike purpose among him. Which, to be fair his armour most likely contributed to those thoughts of warlike intent .
He could tell from this distance that the magic emanating from the guards was primarily arcane in nature , presumably from enchanted weaponry and armour. He had expected that the guards would all be equipped with magical equipment ,from the information that the shades gathered during their multiple searches for information. Grey never went anywhere without at least preliminary knowledge of the area in question.
Under the heavy helm upon his head the deathlord raised an eyebrow at the force which had gathered in front of him. He had expected no less than utmost caution when dealing with a nation that was nearly as old as Eldin .He began to muse how many of them he could turn into walking corpses before the rest realized what was happening ,but quickly dropped the idea. His eyes paid particular attention to the heads of the spears, making a mental note to himself to not get hit by such weapons if he could help it in the eventuality that the whole situation turned violent.
His helmed head stayed focused on the wall of steel infront of him, but his eyes drifted up to the towers and ramparts, mentally noting that there were archers with bows at the ready.He doubted any of the projectiles would pierce the armour he was wearing anyways, but they would certainly be bothersome in combat.
As the single guardsman stepped out from the ranks of his fellows Grey immediately identified him as either a figure of authority, or just some fool playing hero . Regardless, he tilted his head to the side slightly as he regarded the man in turn ,dismounting from his mount and taking a step forward so he was only a mere five feet from the officer, his tilted head giving the impression of a curious, yet rather hungry predator. "Ah, so you've heard of me then. My apologies for not informing you of my arrival beforehand... And if the Council deigned to wage war upon you then we wouldn't be kind enough to warn you first. My assignment is purely diplomatic and of peaceful intent. Now,if you would ever so kindly stand down that would be wonderful. "
He could tell from this distance that the magic emanating from the guards was primarily arcane in nature , presumably from enchanted weaponry and armour. He had expected that the guards would all be equipped with magical equipment ,from the information that the shades gathered during their multiple searches for information. Grey never went anywhere without at least preliminary knowledge of the area in question.
Under the heavy helm upon his head the deathlord raised an eyebrow at the force which had gathered in front of him. He had expected no less than utmost caution when dealing with a nation that was nearly as old as Eldin .He began to muse how many of them he could turn into walking corpses before the rest realized what was happening ,but quickly dropped the idea. His eyes paid particular attention to the heads of the spears, making a mental note to himself to not get hit by such weapons if he could help it in the eventuality that the whole situation turned violent.
His helmed head stayed focused on the wall of steel infront of him, but his eyes drifted up to the towers and ramparts, mentally noting that there were archers with bows at the ready.He doubted any of the projectiles would pierce the armour he was wearing anyways, but they would certainly be bothersome in combat.
As the single guardsman stepped out from the ranks of his fellows Grey immediately identified him as either a figure of authority, or just some fool playing hero . Regardless, he tilted his head to the side slightly as he regarded the man in turn ,dismounting from his mount and taking a step forward so he was only a mere five feet from the officer, his tilted head giving the impression of a curious, yet rather hungry predator. "Ah, so you've heard of me then. My apologies for not informing you of my arrival beforehand... And if the Council deigned to wage war upon you then we wouldn't be kind enough to warn you first. My assignment is purely diplomatic and of peaceful intent. Now,if you would ever so kindly stand down that would be wonderful. "
(I apologize in advance for the stream of oncoming cat and dog jokes.) Grey kept his head tilted to the side in a curious manner as he observed the officer. He had known from the numerous shades that had been sent into the land of Terel'Liren that the people were very long lived and had many similar features that one would find in a feline. In some back portion of Grey's mind he had the oddest urge to chase the officer up a tree, but quickly banished the thought as mere nonsense. "Understandable. If I witnessed someone lobbing fireballs in Ahn'Kahet they would be slaughtered, I would expect no different if I started to raise the dead or turn your people inside out. Regardless, your hospitality is welcomed. May I ask your name? I find it much easier to speak with someone when I know to call them something other than 'Officer' or 'Mortal' " The canid chuckled slightly, a show that he was merely jesting when it came to the second name that he would have addressed the officer.
Grey watched the precision of the guards as they moved back to their posts, noticing the timing of their feet and simply how in-time they were. Like a well oiled machine, Grey mused to himself. He noted that a few of the guards on the walls were still aiming their bows at him, to which he merely gazed up at them and raised an eyebrow. If he was simply wandering and not caring for diplomatic relations between Terel'Liren and Ahn'Kahet he would have likely cast some lingering curse on them that would not be detectable by anyone other than those who would be capable of casting such a curse in the first place.
Grey was very used to having a nation whom was either distrustful or outright fearful of the particular brand of sorcery which he possesses. He has never taken the power lightly, and only truly abused it twice in his life of six-hundred and forty-seven years of walking on this plane of existence. As far as powerful undead go, Grey was still rather young, being barely a quarter the age of some of the middle-aged members of the lich council. To his own people back in the villages aboveground and below death and life are treated as separate deities. One cannot exist without the other, and thus they support one another. There are legends that say that the two deities had a child, whom embodies traits of both parents.The poor creature is shunned from the world, forced to take refuge in the coldest, harshest terrain where the unforgiving eye of the living dares not to tread.
Deathlords in general were viewed with suspicion even among those who live in Ahn'Kahet. If word spreads of a single deathlord being sent to investigate matters within the nation, that means that some tragedy or small insurrection has spread throughout a portion of the snow-swept region. If two deathlords are sent, that means that either hundreds lie dead on the fields of snow, or hundreds soon will. If three are sent...The villagers of Ahn'Kahet all shut their windows and stay indoors for the rest of the night. Ahn'Kahet as a whole did not have any compulsions which would force them to act, even a declaration of war would perhaps get a yawn at best from the youngest members of the lich council. All religions are welcome within Ahn'Kahet, no races are discriminated against, and any language can be spoken there, for all who reside within the nation of the dead know one simple truth. Everyone is equal in the cold embrace of Death.
As the Deathlord rode through the killing zone he made mental notes of where archers would be best placed along the walls to take advantage of the lack of cover an opponent would have. Even if he was asked not to he couldn't help but draw mental maps of fortifications that he could see, which would most likely be drawn out on canvas later and put in one of hundreds of map casings that Grey keeps in his personal citadel.
From an architectural standpoint Grey could appreciate the simple beauty of Rimni. He had visited many cities, many different styles of architecture, but this was one of the styles that he could really look at and think of it as beautiful. He always was the type to prefer function over fashion after all.
While Grey had received many stares in his travels it never got any less annoying to him. If they were going to stand there and gawk at a strange rider they could at least have the courtesy to say hello. Unfortunately Grey did not exactly have time for pleasantries anyway, his time that he was allowed here was short, and he needed that time to speak with whatever members in Terel'Liren had power, either through the Military or through politics. He rode quickly through the streets, wanting to get this over and done with as soon as possible. He was not surprised in the slightest by the casual use of cantrips and other weak magics, this place was renowned for magic, it would only make sense that the lower element of their people would also be capable of casting minor spells.
What did impress him, however, was the amount of sheer magical energy emanating from the Tower of Gathering Night. He decided that if such a tower had this vast amount of arcane energy stored within it, then he should make a quick visit to see if there would potentially be anyone there worth talking to about certain matters. As he neared the Citadel he dismounted and snapped his index finger and thumb, the undead steed glancing toward it's master then standing completely still as Grey moved to begin ascending up the tower, tracing one gloved hand along the heavily enchanted wall with a sly grin on his face.
Grey watched the precision of the guards as they moved back to their posts, noticing the timing of their feet and simply how in-time they were. Like a well oiled machine, Grey mused to himself. He noted that a few of the guards on the walls were still aiming their bows at him, to which he merely gazed up at them and raised an eyebrow. If he was simply wandering and not caring for diplomatic relations between Terel'Liren and Ahn'Kahet he would have likely cast some lingering curse on them that would not be detectable by anyone other than those who would be capable of casting such a curse in the first place.
Grey was very used to having a nation whom was either distrustful or outright fearful of the particular brand of sorcery which he possesses. He has never taken the power lightly, and only truly abused it twice in his life of six-hundred and forty-seven years of walking on this plane of existence. As far as powerful undead go, Grey was still rather young, being barely a quarter the age of some of the middle-aged members of the lich council. To his own people back in the villages aboveground and below death and life are treated as separate deities. One cannot exist without the other, and thus they support one another. There are legends that say that the two deities had a child, whom embodies traits of both parents.The poor creature is shunned from the world, forced to take refuge in the coldest, harshest terrain where the unforgiving eye of the living dares not to tread.
Deathlords in general were viewed with suspicion even among those who live in Ahn'Kahet. If word spreads of a single deathlord being sent to investigate matters within the nation, that means that some tragedy or small insurrection has spread throughout a portion of the snow-swept region. If two deathlords are sent, that means that either hundreds lie dead on the fields of snow, or hundreds soon will. If three are sent...The villagers of Ahn'Kahet all shut their windows and stay indoors for the rest of the night. Ahn'Kahet as a whole did not have any compulsions which would force them to act, even a declaration of war would perhaps get a yawn at best from the youngest members of the lich council. All religions are welcome within Ahn'Kahet, no races are discriminated against, and any language can be spoken there, for all who reside within the nation of the dead know one simple truth. Everyone is equal in the cold embrace of Death.
As the Deathlord rode through the killing zone he made mental notes of where archers would be best placed along the walls to take advantage of the lack of cover an opponent would have. Even if he was asked not to he couldn't help but draw mental maps of fortifications that he could see, which would most likely be drawn out on canvas later and put in one of hundreds of map casings that Grey keeps in his personal citadel.
From an architectural standpoint Grey could appreciate the simple beauty of Rimni. He had visited many cities, many different styles of architecture, but this was one of the styles that he could really look at and think of it as beautiful. He always was the type to prefer function over fashion after all.
While Grey had received many stares in his travels it never got any less annoying to him. If they were going to stand there and gawk at a strange rider they could at least have the courtesy to say hello. Unfortunately Grey did not exactly have time for pleasantries anyway, his time that he was allowed here was short, and he needed that time to speak with whatever members in Terel'Liren had power, either through the Military or through politics. He rode quickly through the streets, wanting to get this over and done with as soon as possible. He was not surprised in the slightest by the casual use of cantrips and other weak magics, this place was renowned for magic, it would only make sense that the lower element of their people would also be capable of casting minor spells.
What did impress him, however, was the amount of sheer magical energy emanating from the Tower of Gathering Night. He decided that if such a tower had this vast amount of arcane energy stored within it, then he should make a quick visit to see if there would potentially be anyone there worth talking to about certain matters. As he neared the Citadel he dismounted and snapped his index finger and thumb, the undead steed glancing toward it's master then standing completely still as Grey moved to begin ascending up the tower, tracing one gloved hand along the heavily enchanted wall with a sly grin on his face.
The Vothyl Sylians had expected fair treatment to their people and boarding for their more higher ranking members, however, the great honor of having all of their traveling members boarded into appropriate temporary shelters impressed the Pale People. The foreign structures, built with amazing skill and with designs unheard of to the natives of the frozen wastes. It was something they would remember for years to come, such colorful lands compared to the white tundras and mountains they had called home and the architecture that was so alien to them... It all left the delegates in a good mood, ready to strike the first official Bond of Vothyl Syl... Well, at least the first Bond with a foreign nation.
Bonds had been used in the past, but they were between the City States of the West. While many of the cities worshiped the same Goddess and followed the same High Overseer, some followed different rules, too far away from other cities to follow the same rules and have the exact same cultures. Connections were hard to hold back then, so Bonds were made, pacts between the City States of official rules and guidelines of how they should communicate and interact with various other Cities. Of course, those Bonds were extremely different, and had been fazed out after communication between the distant City States improved as they learned how to traverse through blizzards at faster speeds as their nomadic ancestors once did.
While arranging for their audience with King Erisad, the Ambassador had several other high ranking members of Vothyl Syl with her. the Ambassador was tall, no doubt imposing to those unused to the masked features of the Pale People. Her skin color was no doubt very light, like her companions, but due to their extremely modest clothing standards held by officials, not a bit of her skin was visible behind all the robes and ceremonial armor.
Her armor was very simple when compared to the layered, chitinous plating of normal Vothyl Sylian soldiers, as instead of many 'scales' of armor, they were solid pieces, adorned with various styles of ebony and silver. She wore dark robes, with the blended metal armor pieces on very selective parts of her body, such as her wrists, chest, and the backs of her hands. Tied along with her mask, silver in its chassis with many streaks of ebony adorning it in an asymmetrical pattern. She was a sight of foreign beauty and power, as the symbol on her mask, formed by the pattern of the ebony, no doubt meant something of great importance to the Vothyl Sylians.
Her antlers were something odd as well. It wasn't questioned that the antlers of the Pale People were unique for each person, even twins had different antlers, but there was something obviously different with the Ambassadors. Her antlers branched out in many ways, of course small in comparison to other large animals antlers, but when compared to her fellow Pale People, they were extremely large. The second notable thing about them was that she was missing her right antler. It appeared to be brutally cut in a jagged shape. She was the only member of any scouting party that had left Vothyl Syl's lands, and survived an attack by Antler looting bandits.
She had been knocked out while her traveling caravan was raided, many months ago, and assumed dead by the raiders. She had woken up to the sharp pain of a jagged saw already yanking off the large piece of expensive prized bone. She never revealed how she escaped, the fate of the raiders, or where the attack happened. No one pushed the issue, and no one dared bring it up. If anything, her missing antler brought more respect than her large pair had before it's incident.
After listening to the rules of Terelain court and official meetings, the Ambassador had her companions write down what had been spoken, determined to have the meeting go as well as possible. There was no strife on the following day, as parents continued to heard their immature offspring away from trouble in foreign lands, and the childless either only making short trips from their temporary abodes or not leaving them to begin with. The Ambassador and the Mages of Vothyl Syl made their way to the Terelain throne, where there audience with the King was to be held.
Entering, the five officials of Vothyl Syl bowed in unison, approaching in a formation agreed upon on the previous day. The Ambassador herself took up the front, as she was the one communicating the Bond, while the Mages stood nearly shoulder to shoulder behind her. They were each unique, foreign, and mysterious, any normal citizen of Vothyl Syl would agree that the workings of the Government, Church, and Mages were mystical, strange things.
"Your Highness." The Ambassador spoke, her voice ringing out with the power she held. "We are pleased to be here today, to discuss the first Bond of Vothyl Syl with a foreign Nation."
Bonds had been used in the past, but they were between the City States of the West. While many of the cities worshiped the same Goddess and followed the same High Overseer, some followed different rules, too far away from other cities to follow the same rules and have the exact same cultures. Connections were hard to hold back then, so Bonds were made, pacts between the City States of official rules and guidelines of how they should communicate and interact with various other Cities. Of course, those Bonds were extremely different, and had been fazed out after communication between the distant City States improved as they learned how to traverse through blizzards at faster speeds as their nomadic ancestors once did.
While arranging for their audience with King Erisad, the Ambassador had several other high ranking members of Vothyl Syl with her. the Ambassador was tall, no doubt imposing to those unused to the masked features of the Pale People. Her skin color was no doubt very light, like her companions, but due to their extremely modest clothing standards held by officials, not a bit of her skin was visible behind all the robes and ceremonial armor.
Her armor was very simple when compared to the layered, chitinous plating of normal Vothyl Sylian soldiers, as instead of many 'scales' of armor, they were solid pieces, adorned with various styles of ebony and silver. She wore dark robes, with the blended metal armor pieces on very selective parts of her body, such as her wrists, chest, and the backs of her hands. Tied along with her mask, silver in its chassis with many streaks of ebony adorning it in an asymmetrical pattern. She was a sight of foreign beauty and power, as the symbol on her mask, formed by the pattern of the ebony, no doubt meant something of great importance to the Vothyl Sylians.
Her antlers were something odd as well. It wasn't questioned that the antlers of the Pale People were unique for each person, even twins had different antlers, but there was something obviously different with the Ambassadors. Her antlers branched out in many ways, of course small in comparison to other large animals antlers, but when compared to her fellow Pale People, they were extremely large. The second notable thing about them was that she was missing her right antler. It appeared to be brutally cut in a jagged shape. She was the only member of any scouting party that had left Vothyl Syl's lands, and survived an attack by Antler looting bandits.
She had been knocked out while her traveling caravan was raided, many months ago, and assumed dead by the raiders. She had woken up to the sharp pain of a jagged saw already yanking off the large piece of expensive prized bone. She never revealed how she escaped, the fate of the raiders, or where the attack happened. No one pushed the issue, and no one dared bring it up. If anything, her missing antler brought more respect than her large pair had before it's incident.
After listening to the rules of Terelain court and official meetings, the Ambassador had her companions write down what had been spoken, determined to have the meeting go as well as possible. There was no strife on the following day, as parents continued to heard their immature offspring away from trouble in foreign lands, and the childless either only making short trips from their temporary abodes or not leaving them to begin with. The Ambassador and the Mages of Vothyl Syl made their way to the Terelain throne, where there audience with the King was to be held.
Entering, the five officials of Vothyl Syl bowed in unison, approaching in a formation agreed upon on the previous day. The Ambassador herself took up the front, as she was the one communicating the Bond, while the Mages stood nearly shoulder to shoulder behind her. They were each unique, foreign, and mysterious, any normal citizen of Vothyl Syl would agree that the workings of the Government, Church, and Mages were mystical, strange things.
"Your Highness." The Ambassador spoke, her voice ringing out with the power she held. "We are pleased to be here today, to discuss the first Bond of Vothyl Syl with a foreign Nation."
The Ambassador watched and listened intently as the nobles spoke. As they continued on, it would be obvious to all of them that the topic had struck her in an odd place. Her once still stature was slowly filling with small twitches, nervous shivers, and other small giveaways that she knew all about the forbidden trade. Her imperfect set of horns proof of the damned deed.
After the royal leaders of Terelain spoke, the Ambassador attempted to reply. "We-" Her voice was shaky, unsure and unstable. Suddenly coughing, the other members of her group didn't move, afraid to bring more attention to the unexpected issue. "We are glad to hear of your prosecution of the trade." The Ambassador spoke, the power and confidence back in her voice, as if the incident had never occurred. "And we would humbly request that, whether or not this Bond is set, that all of the confiscated antlers be returned to us for.... Proper disposal."
Moving on from the business of the illegal trade, the Ambassador started speaking of what the Bond entails. "Our Bonds do not include war, as our isolated nature would no doubt prove to be an issue if were to be called into battle to protect foreign nations. On the same lines, we do not expect our allies to assist us with troops and violence. However, we do, however, grant an olive branch should your people find themselves under harm. Should you find your people under threat, and require a place for them to flee in safety, we will gladly shelter them from your enemies until they are safe to return." She concluded the business of war, something Vothyl Syl held little interested in.
"Moving on to other, more important parts of the Bond, I'd like to start with trading. If agreed upon by your Highness, our trading agreements will form routes that both of our merchants can take, with guaranteed protection from adjusted Vothyl Sylian patrols on our land, within reason, of course. Metals such as Ebony and Silver will gladly be traded, as well as our cloths and clothing."
"On the order of magic... We find ourselves fascinated by yours. It is unique and unknown to us, in the same manner that ours is to you. This is why my companions behind me our here. These are four of our most esteemed Mages, each skilled in our magic in a different style. Should this Bond be agreed upon, these four shall remain here to share our secrets with your mages, at their own discretion of course." The four Mages behind her bowed as they were mentioned.
After the royal leaders of Terelain spoke, the Ambassador attempted to reply. "We-" Her voice was shaky, unsure and unstable. Suddenly coughing, the other members of her group didn't move, afraid to bring more attention to the unexpected issue. "We are glad to hear of your prosecution of the trade." The Ambassador spoke, the power and confidence back in her voice, as if the incident had never occurred. "And we would humbly request that, whether or not this Bond is set, that all of the confiscated antlers be returned to us for.... Proper disposal."
Moving on from the business of the illegal trade, the Ambassador started speaking of what the Bond entails. "Our Bonds do not include war, as our isolated nature would no doubt prove to be an issue if were to be called into battle to protect foreign nations. On the same lines, we do not expect our allies to assist us with troops and violence. However, we do, however, grant an olive branch should your people find themselves under harm. Should you find your people under threat, and require a place for them to flee in safety, we will gladly shelter them from your enemies until they are safe to return." She concluded the business of war, something Vothyl Syl held little interested in.
"Moving on to other, more important parts of the Bond, I'd like to start with trading. If agreed upon by your Highness, our trading agreements will form routes that both of our merchants can take, with guaranteed protection from adjusted Vothyl Sylian patrols on our land, within reason, of course. Metals such as Ebony and Silver will gladly be traded, as well as our cloths and clothing."
"On the order of magic... We find ourselves fascinated by yours. It is unique and unknown to us, in the same manner that ours is to you. This is why my companions behind me our here. These are four of our most esteemed Mages, each skilled in our magic in a different style. Should this Bond be agreed upon, these four shall remain here to share our secrets with your mages, at their own discretion of course." The four Mages behind her bowed as they were mentioned.
Grey returned the bow, a little smile curling at his lips. "Greetings Taliesin Mirrhel, I am known simply as Grey. I am six hundred and forty-seven years of age, with the last six hundred and twenty three of those being spent in service to the lich council. I welcome the company, and look forward to meeting this Archduke Talian. Not often am I greeted in person by one of royalty unless they are surrounded by a veritable army and I am bereft of weapons." The male chuckled slightly, although he was indeed speaking the truth.
Grey felt slightly uneasy as he was funneled into the narrow tunnel, knowing full well that if the Terelians wished it they could either crush or burn the Deathlord. Of course this was all just mere thoughts tugging at the back of his mind, but they still did bother him slightly. As he emerged he took notice of the strategic layout of the city. Attackers would be hard-pressed to advance under a hail of arrows, no doubt magically enchanted...Unless of course the soldiers attacking felt no pain, or were not affected by being turned into walking pin-cushions.
Grey took a few moments to study the mosaic, crouching down a moment simply to get a better look. He studied the intricately detailed mosiac, his eyes drawn to the one area that had been gouged out. He made a mental note to perhaps "get lost" at some point and wander into the city, being overly curious as he was.
Grey immediately gave the Archduke a quick look over, a little grin tugging at the corner of his lips from the mans choice of clothing, mainly because that was generally the manner that he was dressed in. The armored deathlords facial expressions were hidden behind his helm, yet he returned the inclination of his head. "Greetings Archduke, and the pleasure is all mine. Your hospitality is greatly appreciated, and I assure you, due to my...Condition, I won't be needing much in the way of provisions or other accomodations."
Grey felt slightly uneasy as he was funneled into the narrow tunnel, knowing full well that if the Terelians wished it they could either crush or burn the Deathlord. Of course this was all just mere thoughts tugging at the back of his mind, but they still did bother him slightly. As he emerged he took notice of the strategic layout of the city. Attackers would be hard-pressed to advance under a hail of arrows, no doubt magically enchanted...Unless of course the soldiers attacking felt no pain, or were not affected by being turned into walking pin-cushions.
Grey took a few moments to study the mosaic, crouching down a moment simply to get a better look. He studied the intricately detailed mosiac, his eyes drawn to the one area that had been gouged out. He made a mental note to perhaps "get lost" at some point and wander into the city, being overly curious as he was.
Grey immediately gave the Archduke a quick look over, a little grin tugging at the corner of his lips from the mans choice of clothing, mainly because that was generally the manner that he was dressed in. The armored deathlords facial expressions were hidden behind his helm, yet he returned the inclination of his head. "Greetings Archduke, and the pleasure is all mine. Your hospitality is greatly appreciated, and I assure you, due to my...Condition, I won't be needing much in the way of provisions or other accomodations."
((Sorry for the silent patch))
"Sehr hai," said Marah in a traditional greeting. "Thank you for your hospitality." (Sehr Hai essentially means be well.)
Marah's eyes scanned the palace as she was led to her chambers, drinking in the culture. She would love to find a storyteller and hear the Terelains' legends, but for now she needed to rest off her journey and clean herself up a bit.
As she relaxed in her suite, Marah considered the negotiations the king had ordered her to bring forward. She only hoped that her father's match against the Terelain prince had created some sort of respect for Archaia among the people of Terel-Liren. Any acknowledgement of their crafting and fighting prowess would help immensely in the negotiations.
"Sehr hai," said Marah in a traditional greeting. "Thank you for your hospitality." (Sehr Hai essentially means be well.)
Marah's eyes scanned the palace as she was led to her chambers, drinking in the culture. She would love to find a storyteller and hear the Terelains' legends, but for now she needed to rest off her journey and clean herself up a bit.
As she relaxed in her suite, Marah considered the negotiations the king had ordered her to bring forward. She only hoped that her father's match against the Terelain prince had created some sort of respect for Archaia among the people of Terel-Liren. Any acknowledgement of their crafting and fighting prowess would help immensely in the negotiations.
"Ahhh, I see. Well, better of you to offer, makes you look good to the more common folk. " The canine chuckled slightly, obviously amused at his own little joke. "So it runs in the family to be generous to outsiders hm? Even though I have little need of what you offer, the thought is still appreciated....And it's a good thing I'm not alive anymore. Had I come a few centuries ago when I was still mortal your food stores would be far emptier than when I arrived. "
The wolf simply nodded his understanding, just as no king rules forever, no kingdom can last for eternity. Ahn'Kahet itself as a nation was relatively new, having only made themselves a open power but a century ago. "I assure you, if I did venture off into that area I wouldn't disappear quite so easily. And they won't. They keep an eye on me, if I were to disappear you would sooner see other deathlords come to retrieve me then a host of ghouls marching to your gates. "
The wolf simply nodded his understanding, just as no king rules forever, no kingdom can last for eternity. Ahn'Kahet itself as a nation was relatively new, having only made themselves a open power but a century ago. "I assure you, if I did venture off into that area I wouldn't disappear quite so easily. And they won't. They keep an eye on me, if I were to disappear you would sooner see other deathlords come to retrieve me then a host of ghouls marching to your gates. "
As the Ambassador listened, her heart dropped as she heard that their edicts did not cover the items of ivory craft. Still, while she was glad they would be retrieved, the fact that they would be paid for was an annoyance to her. Her arms crossed behind her back, she waited patiently as the order was passed between the Terelain nobles. Waiting until the Bonds were brought back up, she once again spoke up. "The trade routes will no doubt flourish. Though, there is one small issue that we wish to clear up. Upon our first visit to lands away from the West, we had brought maps of our own cities, which, upon inspection by our officials, were noted to be incorrect, and we believe that you may have false records of them."
"The issue is simple, and we regret letting it pass through. In our lists and maps, made by those who had not traveled very frequently, there was a city added near our border that, well, frankly didn't exist." She added. "The only thing we know of that could cause such an error is that one of the map makers confused a scheduled stop area as a settlement." Her voice was oddly different as she spoke of the city. Anyone could pick up the change in her tone, as if she was reluctant, but required to speak of it.
"Moving on from that, we will do our part to guard the trade routes and to set up buildings and guarded settlements for travelers and traders to use as they head into our territory. While bandits still aren't common deeper into our lands... They are not unheard of. We shall do everything we can to defend traders against them. As for our mages, they have agreed to stay here for extended periods of time. The nature of our magic is quite extensive and complicated, and will require much time to fully understand it."
"The issue is simple, and we regret letting it pass through. In our lists and maps, made by those who had not traveled very frequently, there was a city added near our border that, well, frankly didn't exist." She added. "The only thing we know of that could cause such an error is that one of the map makers confused a scheduled stop area as a settlement." Her voice was oddly different as she spoke of the city. Anyone could pick up the change in her tone, as if she was reluctant, but required to speak of it.
"Moving on from that, we will do our part to guard the trade routes and to set up buildings and guarded settlements for travelers and traders to use as they head into our territory. While bandits still aren't common deeper into our lands... They are not unheard of. We shall do everything we can to defend traders against them. As for our mages, they have agreed to stay here for extended periods of time. The nature of our magic is quite extensive and complicated, and will require much time to fully understand it."
As Marah sat in her room, a voice spoke into her mind.
Marah! I need your help! it said, and the mage rushed to a mirror to see her mentor, an old, graying woman, standing wearily in the reflection, magically projected.
"Marah, it's important. King Gahlerek has gone to war against the jungle nation! He blames Ahuachtli for the resurrection of Sael, and accuses them of dishonoring Archaia! The fleet left for the Expanse not long ago."
"What? Oh, my... He is mad!" Marah stuttered.
"Tell the Terelains. Come to them for assistance. Their representative fought well in the tournament, perhaps they will aid us. I hate more than anything the idea of a war."
Minutes later, Marah went to the palace gates and asked an audience with the regent.
Marah! I need your help! it said, and the mage rushed to a mirror to see her mentor, an old, graying woman, standing wearily in the reflection, magically projected.
"Marah, it's important. King Gahlerek has gone to war against the jungle nation! He blames Ahuachtli for the resurrection of Sael, and accuses them of dishonoring Archaia! The fleet left for the Expanse not long ago."
"What? Oh, my... He is mad!" Marah stuttered.
"Tell the Terelains. Come to them for assistance. Their representative fought well in the tournament, perhaps they will aid us. I hate more than anything the idea of a war."
Minutes later, Marah went to the palace gates and asked an audience with the regent.
Marah was slightly out of breath from running, so she composed herself.
"Yes. Long have I suspected that our King, Gahlerek the Prosperous, is paranoid, fearful that other nations wish to dishonor Archaia. A Kah-Lahre from my nation has told me that he is going to war against Ahuachtli, believing that they used magic to raise a man from the dead, a man who dishonored Archaia. You may know him from the Tournament... My brother, Sael. Gahlerek intends to invade and wipe out the Ahuachtli people for their dishonoring of Archaia.
I know we are not yet allies, but I would ask on behalf of my people that you aid us. I need to get back to Archaia and fix this terrible mistake. May I speak with a mage? If I know a magic-user I can communicate with him through mirrors. That way, if I need to ask for action, I can do so immediately. As soon as I'm ready, I will summon my flying mount and fly for Archaia."
"Yes. Long have I suspected that our King, Gahlerek the Prosperous, is paranoid, fearful that other nations wish to dishonor Archaia. A Kah-Lahre from my nation has told me that he is going to war against Ahuachtli, believing that they used magic to raise a man from the dead, a man who dishonored Archaia. You may know him from the Tournament... My brother, Sael. Gahlerek intends to invade and wipe out the Ahuachtli people for their dishonoring of Archaia.
I know we are not yet allies, but I would ask on behalf of my people that you aid us. I need to get back to Archaia and fix this terrible mistake. May I speak with a mage? If I know a magic-user I can communicate with him through mirrors. That way, if I need to ask for action, I can do so immediately. As soon as I'm ready, I will summon my flying mount and fly for Archaia."
Grey had to put his right hand over his mouth to stop himself from laughing uncontrollably, which luckily didn't show. He passed it off as if he was merely wiping his mouth with his glove. "It seems every nation is wary of a lone deathlord travelling unarmed these days. If I had planned to turn this beautiful city into a necropolis I would have came with an undead army at my back and my blade in my fist. I assure you that your judgement was not misplaced either, were I in your position I would have done the same thing. And I wouldn't hold anything against them for being a little...Less welcoming than the warm welcome that I recieved here. This 'Gift of insight' you speak of does rather intrigue me, if you wouldn't mind I would like to know more about it."
"I would suspect nothing less. A nation with such a vast magical knowledge such as your own surely has spells capable of destroying the vast majority of our little creations...Although it is the ones who would survive those spells that you should be wary of." Grey's smile remained when the Archduke brought up what would occur if he did go into that accursed place. "Oh believe me, you are not the first and will definitely not be the last to threaten me with death. And I assure you, Archduke, that if you tried many, many of your people will suffer fates worse than slipping free of their mortal lives. Lastly...If you really wish to discourage someone from going somewhere, do not threaten the person. Threaten their families, friends, their country. It worked rather well for me in the past."
With that said, he just nodded his head, and pulled the glove off of his right hand before offering it to the Archduke in a handshake, a sign of mutual respect. "I agree, such talk should be reserved for enemies, not for men who get a little too curious for their own good."
"I would suspect nothing less. A nation with such a vast magical knowledge such as your own surely has spells capable of destroying the vast majority of our little creations...Although it is the ones who would survive those spells that you should be wary of." Grey's smile remained when the Archduke brought up what would occur if he did go into that accursed place. "Oh believe me, you are not the first and will definitely not be the last to threaten me with death. And I assure you, Archduke, that if you tried many, many of your people will suffer fates worse than slipping free of their mortal lives. Lastly...If you really wish to discourage someone from going somewhere, do not threaten the person. Threaten their families, friends, their country. It worked rather well for me in the past."
With that said, he just nodded his head, and pulled the glove off of his right hand before offering it to the Archduke in a handshake, a sign of mutual respect. "I agree, such talk should be reserved for enemies, not for men who get a little too curious for their own good."
The Ambassador nodded, understanding his position on the ivory. "I understand the issue, but I would have figured that, due to the banning on its trade, that they ivory would be worthless in trade, as it could not be displayed or sold. But it is your nobles, you know them far better than I do. Please do not allow my sour response to affect your actions, my opinion on the trade is... A bit biased, as you can tell."
Nodding as they continued on about the trade routes, the Ambassador spoke up when appropriate. "Your protection and help of constructing the trade routes will be gladly accepted, even into our lands. Of course, once your inns and stops reach our territory, we will send assistance and our own guards to help defend from native wildlife and bandits as well as to properly construct buildings to combat the cold." Though the cities, even inside, had cold interiors, it was much more bearable than the frozen wastes and lands outside. Besides, a species didn't survive that long without knowing how to keep things warm.
"And there is no need to waste your resources on graphing our land. Our Government has many accurate maps we are willing to share. The issue came about due to a lack of communication between our official map makers and the rest of our traveling members. It is entirely our fault, and we wish to correct it without having you spending your resources." It seemed that the Ambassador was trying to avoid having the area explored. "Though there is a mountain in that region, it isn't suitable for one of our cities."
Nodding as they continued on about the trade routes, the Ambassador spoke up when appropriate. "Your protection and help of constructing the trade routes will be gladly accepted, even into our lands. Of course, once your inns and stops reach our territory, we will send assistance and our own guards to help defend from native wildlife and bandits as well as to properly construct buildings to combat the cold." Though the cities, even inside, had cold interiors, it was much more bearable than the frozen wastes and lands outside. Besides, a species didn't survive that long without knowing how to keep things warm.
"And there is no need to waste your resources on graphing our land. Our Government has many accurate maps we are willing to share. The issue came about due to a lack of communication between our official map makers and the rest of our traveling members. It is entirely our fault, and we wish to correct it without having you spending your resources." It seemed that the Ambassador was trying to avoid having the area explored. "Though there is a mountain in that region, it isn't suitable for one of our cities."
"Thank you," said Marah. "I think then that I should hasten back to Archaia, if not to plead with the king then to find some... Some weapon to fight him with. If I have your leave, I should speak to the Magus."
(Grey is laughing at two things. One. How nearly every nation greets him in the same manner, even when unarmed and declaring peaceful intentions. Two. How if most die when they enter those ruins, and Grey were to make it out alive, he wonders how the Terelians would be so confident in their ability to kill him. And how Naive it is of them to assume that he had not prepared for such an eventuality.)
Grey nodded and shrugged, it was infact how he was used to killing his foes. However, he was slightly insulted by the assumption that simply because he could kill a wave of soldiers with a flick of his wrist that he would not be capable of winning in combat against stronger foes. Regardless, he thought that it would be rather wise to move on from this particular topic before it just turned into a pissing match between the two nations. "Quite interesting. I wonder what they have seen then, to be able to send beings literally incapable of fear into a panic. And I know that there are worse things than death, I have been experiancing one of those things for over six centuries now, soon to be seven." He returned the glance, and an almost playful smirk hinted at the corners of his mouth. "And you truly believe Ahn'Kahet to be so young? While I was only just born when they had been above ground for a few centuries, They have been toiling underground for millennium upon millennium. I am well aware that many before us have used similar methods to gain power, but I assure you one thing Talian, ours is a nation that will not go away easily."
As the Archdukes hand came in contact with Greys furred one a small spike of pain would shoot through his arm, which Grey quickly moved to explain why. "Ah, sorry about that little jolt you felt there. Happens rather often when I make physical contact with a member of the living for the first time. The pain should fade shortly." The deathlord sighed, seeming slightly flustered that it had happened again. "Back to what you were saying, I agree. Even though our council can be rather...Blatant, with their beliefs we still hold respect for the nations whom earn it. And as for being able to summon vast hordes and obliterate even your strongest bastions...If I truly believed I were capable of it, would I be standing here, bereft of my weapon speaking with you in a peaceful manner?"
Feeling that with his last statement he had also succintly responded to the Archdukes last, and rather good point, he still felt the need to address the fact about the 'waging a war but once' "Very true, the war would be waged but once, and only with your own soldiers. You send your armies to attack, we send corpses back. But those same corpses would carry out the orders that were meant for our cities, on yours. But enough of this grim talk, let us speak more on matters that would be of benefit to us both. Like perhaps establishing trade routes and other alliances."
"The gift of insight seems quite the wonderful thing to have, I could see how being able to acclimate oneself to anothers culture quickly would be ideal for matters of diplomacy and trading. I too have a gift, although it is far more...Unique, I do believe I may be the only one in the entirety of the expanse with it, although I am rather sure there are at least a few others who possess the same abilities as I. Regardless, I shall speak of that particular art another time."
Grey nodded and shrugged, it was infact how he was used to killing his foes. However, he was slightly insulted by the assumption that simply because he could kill a wave of soldiers with a flick of his wrist that he would not be capable of winning in combat against stronger foes. Regardless, he thought that it would be rather wise to move on from this particular topic before it just turned into a pissing match between the two nations. "Quite interesting. I wonder what they have seen then, to be able to send beings literally incapable of fear into a panic. And I know that there are worse things than death, I have been experiancing one of those things for over six centuries now, soon to be seven." He returned the glance, and an almost playful smirk hinted at the corners of his mouth. "And you truly believe Ahn'Kahet to be so young? While I was only just born when they had been above ground for a few centuries, They have been toiling underground for millennium upon millennium. I am well aware that many before us have used similar methods to gain power, but I assure you one thing Talian, ours is a nation that will not go away easily."
As the Archdukes hand came in contact with Greys furred one a small spike of pain would shoot through his arm, which Grey quickly moved to explain why. "Ah, sorry about that little jolt you felt there. Happens rather often when I make physical contact with a member of the living for the first time. The pain should fade shortly." The deathlord sighed, seeming slightly flustered that it had happened again. "Back to what you were saying, I agree. Even though our council can be rather...Blatant, with their beliefs we still hold respect for the nations whom earn it. And as for being able to summon vast hordes and obliterate even your strongest bastions...If I truly believed I were capable of it, would I be standing here, bereft of my weapon speaking with you in a peaceful manner?"
Feeling that with his last statement he had also succintly responded to the Archdukes last, and rather good point, he still felt the need to address the fact about the 'waging a war but once' "Very true, the war would be waged but once, and only with your own soldiers. You send your armies to attack, we send corpses back. But those same corpses would carry out the orders that were meant for our cities, on yours. But enough of this grim talk, let us speak more on matters that would be of benefit to us both. Like perhaps establishing trade routes and other alliances."
"The gift of insight seems quite the wonderful thing to have, I could see how being able to acclimate oneself to anothers culture quickly would be ideal for matters of diplomacy and trading. I too have a gift, although it is far more...Unique, I do believe I may be the only one in the entirety of the expanse with it, although I am rather sure there are at least a few others who possess the same abilities as I. Regardless, I shall speak of that particular art another time."
Marah nodded. She herself had chosen not to specialize in one branch of magic, as many in the ranks of the Kah-Lahren had.
"Thank you, your majesty. Though you will not intervene, I am grateful for what help you have chosen to give."
Marah's days as a bard allowed her to quickly pick up on the mood of a room, and she knew that there was a secret conversation going on between the king and the woman kneeling before him. She was interesting, thought Marah. She had all the makings of a perfect Kah-Laune. Marah did not allow herself to dwell on that mystery, instead focusing on the court magus.
"Thank you, your majesty. Though you will not intervene, I am grateful for what help you have chosen to give."
Marah's days as a bard allowed her to quickly pick up on the mood of a room, and she knew that there was a secret conversation going on between the king and the woman kneeling before him. She was interesting, thought Marah. She had all the makings of a perfect Kah-Laune. Marah did not allow herself to dwell on that mystery, instead focusing on the court magus.
"On the topic of the trade routes, we are unsure of the weather patterns or habits in your lands, however, we have extensive knowledge of our own. In a time of more... Convenient travel, even our caravans lack the expensive, resilient structures that our ancestors used. We follow and trace weather patterns of storms and blizzards, and adjust our moving schedules accordingly."
"As our stations are set up for traders, we shall update information in each one about oncoming blizzards and the locations of storms in our lands. On a similar note, we would like to requests information on the weather of lands out here. We have noticed something strange as we traveled. We have gone many days with few clouds, many with clear skies and we have yet to see much more than a small drizzle of downfall... Is your land going through a drought?" The question was asked with pure sincerity, as if it was unusual for such a simple event to occur.
The five Vothyl Sylians glanced around, genuinely concerned about the possibility of a drought in an area with such a lively population. It was humorous how these people, thought of as mysterious and stoic, were concerned about a small pause between showers of rain.
"As our stations are set up for traders, we shall update information in each one about oncoming blizzards and the locations of storms in our lands. On a similar note, we would like to requests information on the weather of lands out here. We have noticed something strange as we traveled. We have gone many days with few clouds, many with clear skies and we have yet to see much more than a small drizzle of downfall... Is your land going through a drought?" The question was asked with pure sincerity, as if it was unusual for such a simple event to occur.
The five Vothyl Sylians glanced around, genuinely concerned about the possibility of a drought in an area with such a lively population. It was humorous how these people, thought of as mysterious and stoic, were concerned about a small pause between showers of rain.
"If I had given you that warning you wouldn't have shaken my hand in the first place...And that's a rather odd assumption. Merely because I am dead does not mean I do not care about the living any longer. Otherwise Would I be making any attempt at diplomacy?" Of course the court physician would check up on it, what responsible court physician wouldn't check up on it?
Grey shrugged, chuckling a little bit. "And we have our own methods of dealing with a lack of bodies to raise. But regardless, it would be a terrible war if it ever came to pass, many lives would be lost in the conflict, and little would be gained by either side am I correct?" Grey just smiled a little bit at the mention of giving a Lich a nightmare. "That would only give them inspiration for creating terrible creatures... I'd rather not think of it personally." Grey actually shuddered slightly at the thought of the council creating even more horrors than they already had.
"True, why waste our strength when we could corrupt a nation from within Hm? While that is generally what we aim to do to conserve our military strength, we only do that to nations whom would be susceptible to such tactics. A nation such as yours we would never make an attempt on....And I admit that the council is rather brash about that. While that may be their dream, it won't become a reality if certain individuals can stop or replace them..." After he said that he chuckled, as if implying something.
Grey just looked around as they walked, mentally comparing each detail to His citadel, a practice he did rather often. While the Citadels did not have the elegance or the look of wealth to them, only utility. "Heh, well a trade route between our nations would certainly be beneficial would it not? We could both trade goods that we do not have in our own nations, and some that we are in short supply. Everyone benefits from that. And if we do end up waiting that long I'll be sure to come visit again."
"Quite a useful trait indeed. I'm not surprised at all that your nation has lasted this long, especially with talents like those, combined with your magical might as well...And if you see us invade a nation, I'll ask that you do not interfere. We will explain everything later." With that said he just followed after the Archduke with an expression of neutrality on his face.
(Sorry for the late response, real life was catching up for awhile!)
Grey shrugged, chuckling a little bit. "And we have our own methods of dealing with a lack of bodies to raise. But regardless, it would be a terrible war if it ever came to pass, many lives would be lost in the conflict, and little would be gained by either side am I correct?" Grey just smiled a little bit at the mention of giving a Lich a nightmare. "That would only give them inspiration for creating terrible creatures... I'd rather not think of it personally." Grey actually shuddered slightly at the thought of the council creating even more horrors than they already had.
"True, why waste our strength when we could corrupt a nation from within Hm? While that is generally what we aim to do to conserve our military strength, we only do that to nations whom would be susceptible to such tactics. A nation such as yours we would never make an attempt on....And I admit that the council is rather brash about that. While that may be their dream, it won't become a reality if certain individuals can stop or replace them..." After he said that he chuckled, as if implying something.
Grey just looked around as they walked, mentally comparing each detail to His citadel, a practice he did rather often. While the Citadels did not have the elegance or the look of wealth to them, only utility. "Heh, well a trade route between our nations would certainly be beneficial would it not? We could both trade goods that we do not have in our own nations, and some that we are in short supply. Everyone benefits from that. And if we do end up waiting that long I'll be sure to come visit again."
"Quite a useful trait indeed. I'm not surprised at all that your nation has lasted this long, especially with talents like those, combined with your magical might as well...And if you see us invade a nation, I'll ask that you do not interfere. We will explain everything later." With that said he just followed after the Archduke with an expression of neutrality on his face.
(Sorry for the late response, real life was catching up for awhile!)