“Stars adrift in the deepest of seas,


    A void unknown cast out into shadow,


    Thine hallowed existence of a meagre flame,


    Sing true thy praises of Astral glory.


    Illuminated by stars in the darkest of tides,


    Glory, glory, we bow to star’s might.”


    - Translated Late Second Age Poem With Suspected Human Origin, Arterian Academy Department of History


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    Carrador was a dour, pragmatic, and stern nation that had little time for trivialities. Though its people reflect the nation’s more apathetic outlook on life, not even the peasantry would pass up a good occasion to celebrate. Thus she was now trapped in a fancy gown that wrapped around her all too tightly, awkwardly trying her best to avoid any nobles that sought her attention. Normally, she would be squirrelled away, allowed to roam at her leisure, not this time. This time the royals themselves were hosting a celebration, the streets of Neun Carad decorated in livery and finery as they not just welcomed a victory, but a diplomatic mission from Melton itself. For the first time in years, Melton and Carrador were willing to move past their frigid relations, to thaw the wounds and allow them to heal. With Saints Day next week marking the end and beginning of the year, Carradorian traditions held that the Morus before Saint’s Day week began would be a day of rest and celebration for all. Eva didn’t know when that came to be, but she was thankful for the good food and drink at least.


    While this was good news, it also meant any noble worth their salt would be in attendance. In order to show off their sons and daughter, Duke and Duchess Rosengart made it abundantly clear that the consequences of disobedience would be more than severe. Not that it bothered her too much, that is, until she realized diplomacy also meant Frederick would be busy mingling with the Meltonians. Her only relief came from her friendship with the Gossliger siblings. Over their time at the academy, Alvor and Aleta grew a little distant as classes and responsibilities drew the two away from her. Still, they emerged from it far more refined and prim than Eva had. When she greeted them however, they seemed happy to see her and were more than happy to keep her company. In truth, it was mostly them being approached and her simply following them around.


    In truth, she could easily blend in with the nobility, offering her fair share of compliments and gossip as the rest of them did. But even with her education and training in etiquette, she still felt ill at ease at these events, almost like a part of her refused to believe that she belonged. Usually she fought this by trying to play her own game of ‘spot the Sophie’, looking around at corners, servant tunnels, or even doorways that the half elf would be trying to peek out of. Ever since the clumsy maid had accidentally spilled a glass of orange juice on Prince Frederick during a feast, she had been relegated to preparation and support staff, never allowed to serve directly anymore. Thankfully, by then the three had become fast friends and Frederick just laughed it off in good fun; mother and father on the other hand were apoplectic. It took everything Sophie had to persuade them not to send her friend to the dungeon, and they thankfully calmed down enough after Frederick joined her persuasion attempt. Fun times, if terrifying, but funny.


    The main hall they were in was built more like an extravagant ballroom than a throne room, but today it served both purposes well. At one end were the main doors at least one story tall, metal reinforced wooden doors to flaunt both power while acting as a final blockade against any would-be foe. A few small doorways leading off to the servants quarters and castle barracks. Then there was the middle of the throne room, now with dozens upon dozens of tables and hundreds of distinguished guests. Castle staff and a few generous noble provided servants busily served food and drink to the guests. At the end of the room, the Carradorian throne sat empty as King Edlin conversed with the four Grand Dukes, huddled in their own little table.


    She sighed, wondering where Sophie was now. The past year had seen her maid develop into an entirely different figure. Though Eva hadn’t seen the events in person, when Sophie recounted the details of her activities after she was kidnapped, she could find almost no trace of the same meek little maid that had once attended to her. She smiled, she’s finally coming into her own. But… I don’t know if I can support her like this, risking her life and limb so often. She deserves a better life, free from all this suffering.  Eva grimaced at her own naiveté, goodness, one can hope.


    “Does Lady Gossliger not agree that it is more prudent for our troops to man the border in greater numbers?” The melodic and all too controlled voice of a noble drew Eva’s attention away from Sophie. The source of which was a clean looking noble wearing a borderline gaudily light green decorated tunic that carried a pattern familiar to the northern territories. Unfortunately for her, this handsome yet sly individual was Lord Kiran Walden, the sharp and overly ambitious third son of Grand Duke Walden, marschall of the north.


    “Eh-err… perhaps? But I mean, wouldn’t it be better to have the majority redeploy to the Traxian border? The Meltonians are here to sign a ceasefire and accord after all.” Aleta replied, her brows knit into a frown.


    “Naturally! But it is precisely why we should be even more vigilant. With Traxia fighting a three front war, if we over commit our resources, the Meltonians might stab us in the back. Goddess knows there’s been enough bad blood between our nations without considering the war.” Kiran spoke.


    “I agree with Kiran’s-err Lord Walden’s assessment. We have earned ourselves a small reprieve from Traxia, far be it to let our backs be opened while we, might I remind everyone, already have less than the standard amount of border guards.” A lady chimed in. This one wore her hair up in a bun and sported a red and gold dress. Eva had to take a moment to figure out who she was and knew her as Edith Platts, daughter of Grand Duke Platts, who was marschall of the south. Eva frowned, if his daughter is in with Walden’s lot, then they’re certainly getting more powerful.


    “More dangerous, perhaps, but the Meltonians are currently occupied with orcish raiders and more internal unrest.” Aleta countered.


    “Or so they say.” Edith tutted, “They’ve broken our trust in the past.”


    “Quite right.” Kiran agreed.


    Aleta pouted and looked to her brother for assistance. But Alvor did not share her opinion and simply shook his head, much to her chagrin and Kiran’s amusement. Watching the lordling smirk made Eva uneasy, and seeing a few other nobles hanging around them nod in agreement, she had the distinctive feeling that the next generation might not be as supportive of peace as the current lords.


    “Don’t look so glum. We’re merely debating certain courses of actions and what might happen. Nothing we say will make it to the discussion table anyways.” Kiran said.


    Aleta didn’t seem convinced but let the matter drop, rolling her eyes and just nodding. This however, had Kiran seize his chance and turn his gaze to the daughter of House Rosengart. Eva sighed on the inside as she braced herself for what to come.


    “And what about you, Madam Rosengart?” Kiran bobbed his head politely at her, a well practiced smile on his face.


    Eva played ignorant and quirked her head sideways, hoping the lordling would get the message. He did not.


    "About what?"


    “Why, about the matter of national security!” He chirped, a spark of malicious delight in the corner of his eyes, “Your family lives close to the northern reaches after all!”


    I don’t like this, Eva grumbled to herself.


    “After all,” He leaned in, drawing in Edith and a few other noble children conspiratorially huddled around Eva, “I heard your family had one of your servants kidnapped and whisked away to Melton. Surely that’s worthy of some response, diplomatic or otherwise.” How the…


    He thought found his own suggestion brilliant and looked around for approval. Edith and a few others nodded as if he were a sage whilst Aleta simply shuffled uncomfortably, whilst Alvor looked at Eva in surprise. They seem… surprised, I guess it might not be them. But then who told this fucker? Her eyes quickly darted around the hall, the massive area filled with too many people for her gaze to linger on any one person. Shit, this means someone who knew about Sophie told him, but who? Mortiz? Nah, doesn’t care about me much and isn’t friends with Kiran. Then could it have been the perpetrator? Shit! I completely forgot about looking into it.


    Loud horns blared into the air, silencing the entire hall and demolished her train of thought. Everyone’s attention to the front of the hall, the horns in Neun Carad only typically used to announce the arrival of someone important. As the doors to the main hall opened, four Carradorian palace guards clad in royal purple and heavy armour strode through in formation, fanning out. That much was expected of their ceremonial roles welcoming newcomers. What was unexpected however, was the presence of four equally finely dressed soldiers coming through behind them. These troopers wore fur cloaks, their pauldrons decorated in blue and gold, and a sigil of a lion proudly displayed on their chestpiece. Their great helms were more pointed than Carradorian helms, and around their head, what looked to be fuzz imitating a lion’s mane surrounded them. From behind the soldiers a young man stepped forth, his demeanor was friendly and the well dressed man bowed elegantly as befitting a royal. However, his eyes looked across the crowd like a beast surveying the land for prey.


    “Carrador welcomes the arrival of King Edward Melton and his company! King of the tribes, ruler of the Frostwinds, defender of the frigid seas, pride of Melton, and uniter of peoples.” The castle crier announced.


    Letting the moment sink in, the young King allowed for a brief silence to reign before he bowed once more, this time less refined but more friendly. At once a flurry of activity happened, almost every single guest whispering something or another to each other as they took in the sight of this stranger from a strange land. Eva, on the other hand, took a small amount of delight in seeing the anger on Kiaran and Edith’s faces. They’re probably also mad that the King looks kinda hot, wait no. Stop it, brain.


    “Presenting the head of the Meltonian kingsguard, the Lion’s Blade of the North. Heir of House Roderick of the Western shores. Lord Aaron Roderick.” The crier announced once more.


    Flanking the king, a far for dour if still young looking figure stepped forward. Unlike his compatriots his half plate armour was undecorated save for the lion sigil. He also wore a fur cloak and held his nasal helm under his arms. His bow too, indicated his militaristic status, a bit stiff, awkward, but each movement precise and calculated. No effort wasted.


    Eva also caught some lords and knights making comments of the man, though some were derogatory, most seemed to at least appreciate or find humor in his almost overly pragmatic outfit. What worried her though, was the man’s gaze then landed exactly on her. It was the lack of expression that unnerved her the most, a face that betrayed nothing yet still left her feeling like he had seen through her. She sucked in a small breath but failed to wipe the doubt from her mind, he might know I’m not actually of this world, I just know it. But when she looked back up, he had already turned away, focused solely on protecting his king.


    You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.


    “Look at them, here at a celebration, yet looking like they’re on a hunt.” Kiran growled, “Savages.”


    While some of the others grunted their agreement, Eva couldn’t help but agree. Something about the way the Meltonians had scanned the room made her feel uneasy. How they would smile and wave but take a few seconds to scan through the crowds. They’re searching for something or someone.


    “I still can’t believe they’re not just allowed in here. But also let in and act as if nothing had happened.” Lady Edith pouted.


    “And they didn’t even need to sign any concessions. This was a white peace in all but name.” Alvor growled, suprising his sister.


    “Alvor!” Aleta squeaked.


    “What? It’s true. The moment they smelled weakness they pounced, and now we’re just supposed to believe they’re willing to be buddy-buddy”


    “Your brother speaks true. More than a few lords including myself see the lack of any restitution being given a big worry that this peace is all but a ploy. Remember Lady Gossliger, they were the ones to first declare war upon us, led precisely by the very same warmonger that now walks our halls.” Kiran added.


    A murmur of agreement broke out and Eva felt a tinge of worry. Ostensibly Carrdorrian politics is divided between three separate factions. There were the monarchists, traditionally supported by the grand duke of the south and played the role of the main loyalist faction. Then there were the grand dukes themselves, who each ruled a large chunk of territory in the king’s name. They effectively served as the representations of noble opinion within their respective domains. With the northern grand duchy being the most warlike; the southern being the most complacent; the east acting the most cautious; and the west left mostly to its own devices as Carrador’s primary economic corridor to Arteria and also an agrarian breadbasket. Beyond the grand dukes were the nobles, all split into a plethora of factions and parties that advocated their own interests. What concerned Eva now was a growing number of nobles flocking to Grand Duke Walden’s more revanchist faction. Even more so if Kiran and the others reflected the opinions of the younger lords.


    The official war soured many opinion''s of Melton. The sudden peace deal soured even more as many now thought that King Edelin was simply kowtowing to his Meltonian counterpart, especially because as Kiran said, they declared war first. Adding insult to injury, the Meltonian king was one who had often sprouted heated rhetoric disparaging Carrador in his princeling years, or so the rumors went. What that amounted to was simply more reasons for people to be suspicious of him. Not that Eva blamed them.


    “Attention ladies and gentlemen, lords and ladies of all ranks and stations. We want to thank you for being here this fine day to join us in celebration of the passing of another year. We stand under the stars to receive their blessings and have come out fruitful once again, with healthy harvests and victories aplenty.” A voice announced.


    To Eva’s surprise, she found the first prince standing in front of the throne with a podium setup for him, a clear sign that he was slowly being eased into his father’s role. Him being easy on the eyes certainly didn’t hurt his chances, with more than a few noblewomen nodding enthusiastically at his words.


    “We know that there are more trying times ahead of us, that there will be many more struggles to be overcome. But we are certain that we are Carradorians, and Carrador has always persevered through every calamity, withstood all manner of threats for centuries. So I am certain that while there may be disagreements, we will survive, and we will thrive.” He continued.


    Unlike Frederick, first prince Sigwald was decidedly more outgoing, far more immersed into politicking, showed aptitude in field command, and also happened to be betrothed to Katherin Falkenwrath, daughter of the Grand Duchess of the west. It hinted at the beginning of a powerful alliance, and one that would mean the economic might of Carrador would stand behind the first prince, should succession become an issue. Thankfully for all involved, second prince Falko was a disaster, while Frederick and his sisters Alessia and Samantha had no desire for the throne, at least not as far as Eva knew.


    “So it is my pleasure today to announce the beginning of a new, hopefully lasting era of cooperation between the nations of Carrador and Melton. To acknowledge the scars of the past whilst turning our eyes to the present and future. To fight against the undead menace in the MIstveil, and to bloody the Imperial advance together. Sigwald paused as the nobility applauded, “It might feel odd that we were at war mere months ago, but times are changing. So let’s be mindful as we have King Edward Melton say a few words.” Sigwald professionally bowed, excusing himself to his father’s side as the young king stepped up.


    This time the applause was a bit more strained, the room just a little more lukewarm. Gods, do they have to make their dislike that obvious? I feel like the Meltonians already know.


    “Honored Carradorians, I thank your king and prince for allowing this opportunity to express both my gratitude and sorrow for everything that has occurred. Though my own blinded hatred, I led my people to war with yours and caused countless unnecessary deaths, for that, you have my sincerest apologies.” Edward’s smooth almost silken voice intoned.


    Eva arched an eyebrow, more surprised at how up front he was being. Though I guess being a king is a bit different than being a politician. More power, probably.


    “From that, I am grateful we have reached an understanding between our peoples, to compromise and work together against the far greater foes that avail us. For the druids and priests speak of a darkness gathering in the northlands beyond the Frostwinds, and with the Imperial’s acting up as well, I fear only unity will see our peoples survive.” He boomed.


    Now that caused a stir. Implications of a darkness beyond were nothing more than myths at this point. But every child would’ve at least had some understanding of the tales of the dark tides be it from lessons or sermons at the Astral church. Still, for someone like a king to so casually announce it seemed to stir the crowd.


    “In fact, it is this very fact that was imparted to me when Melton itself was gripped by civil war, my people divided and broken. Some of you might have heard tales from the decimation of Melisgrad. That is a lie, the truth is that it was more akin to the annihilation of Melisgrad.” He paused, letting the words settle in as more whispers broke out, “More than a hundred thousand souls perished in an instant, hundred thousand more in the days to come. For fools tampering with powers beyond their control had, as my advisors inform me, started a ritual that necrotized the majority of the populace.”


    “Bet he’s lying.” Kiran hissed.


    For once, no one joined the angry lordling, most simply eager to heal more of the king’s tale. Tch,nobles.


    “It is in our gravest hour, that adventurers, nay! Heroes! Came to Melton’s rescue!” He pounded the podium for emphasis, “They did what my people could not. They risked life and limb to disrupt the ritual and destroy the horrors born from this blasphemy. For the rumors you have heard from that event are true! I too, witnessed beings of unfathomable scale clash in the skies above the city, their wretched forms too horrid to describe.”


    Eva stopped breathing, I have a bad feeling about this.


    “It was then, according to their companions and my own troops, that a single warrior, who hailed from Carrador, stepped into the fray. With zeal and ferocity they reached Goldenlight keep and cast down the shadows that held Melisgrad in its grasp, banishing the evil. It was that act of heroism, of self sacrifice that brought me here today. An act that spoke of the value of cooperation, of uniting lest the problems facing us grow beyond our control.” He announced.


    This time more heated whispers followed, but Eva caught a few words and gulped.


    “Carradorian? You mean their civil war was ended by one of ours?” Edith mumbled.


    “A traitor, that’s what. That was our best chance to defeat Melton, gone.” Kiran hissed.


    When Eva looked past the throne and to the flanks, she saw the look of distaste upon Grand Duke Walden’s face. The grizzled lord shared the opinion of his offspring at the nurturing of their chances of victory. Grand Duke Platts looked hopeful, but even he seemed to look around to gauge support in the room, seeming almost disappointed in how many nobles seemed disdainful of this tale.


    “For that act alone saved Melton from a grimer fate, and reminded me of the bond our people could share. In that, I present my second reason for being here beyond the peace accords. For I had hoped to present a gift for the uniting of Melton, because at the time, all I could offer was… a royal blade and armour. A useful but unfulfilling gesture.”


    Cries of ‘who’ echoed throughout the hall and Eva closed her eyes, she just knew what would come next.


    “In this matter, I honor the Lily Knight of Melton, also servant to House Rosengart of Carrador.” He finished.


    Fucking prick nugget, Eva cursed as a collective gasp escaped from the throne room. Mother and father stiffened up as the royal family then looked to Mortiz for answers, who pleaded his ignorance. A few of the nobles around her looked at Eva and she mentally prepared herself.


    “Alas, I assume the lady is not present and thus offer this parting gift to whoever might recieve it her, alongside the highest state honours to highlight the new friendship between our nations.”


    Goddammit, shit, it’s a rumor for most of court but now they’ll definitely find out about Sophie. When Eva opened her eyes, she saw very, very cross looks being shot at her from her parents. Back near the throne, the grand dukes were huddled together, obviously plotting something as they dealt with this new information. King Edelin at least, having put two and two together looked more ashen than his usual self. Beside her, Aleta and Alvor looked at her with concern. Yeah well, I guess it really doesn’t matter who leaked the happenings to Kiran.


    Her mind raced for words as she processed the situation. What she knew was that a few key rules had been violated. Technically, Sophie had never registered as part of a noble household, especially since Eva essentially nagged her parents until they agreed to take her on. Second, she was an elf, and last Eva checked, Carrador did not allow for the enslavement of elves or really, allow elves much in general. Last but perhaps worst of all, Sophie had unknowingly aided an enemy nation and gave them the unity to invade northern Carrador. Of the problems, the first two could be dismissed, the last however, would be the main problem.


    As the throne room erupted into chaotic discussions, Eva loudly clapped her hands. Her gesture cut through the room and slowly silenced everyone like a radiating wave.


    “That would be Sophie, I guess Knightess Sophie you’re talking about.” Eva anwsered, clearing her face of any and all emotions.


    Shocked gasps came from the crowd and she spied the lordling and his entourage looking more surprised than anything. Stupid little git.


    “She is currently indisposed and on a quest of her own, so she is unlikely to return.” Eva continued, her mouth growing dry, “Before those of you concerned ask, no. My parents… were not aware of her presence, nor were my siblings. I found an orphan in the woods when I was young and took her in, disguised her as household staff. If you are to blame my family, blame them for negligence.” Eva sighed, “However, in terms of the events that transpired and for Sophie’s actions, I take full responsibility.” She declared.


    Eva kept a brave face, maintaining her stoic expression despite the intense desire to cringe and hide away. I’m in enough trouble already, if they sense weakness, they’ll pounce. As the furor of noise around her rose in volume, a loud coud came from the podium.


    “Silence in the name of your king.” King Edelin’s commanding voice descended upon the hall, most nobles dropping to a whisper if not outright quieting down.


    “Let me make this clear, we are grateful that House Rosengart has unintentionally aided in reconciling the differences between our nations. That is without question, a fact. Should any guilt be ascribed to the young Lady Rosengart for her misdeeds is another question. One that will be tackled by the court, in private.” King Edelin emphasized the last words, meeting anyone’s gaze who would dare challenge him, “For today is a day of celebration and shall remain as such.”


    A few disgruntled nobles protested with whispers, but the majority of the room heeded to the king’s word. Eva was mortified, but she simply ignored the piercing looks being sent at her, instead choosing to look towards the side of the throne. There, she saw Frederick return her gaze, the prince’s worried expression making her feel almost guilty for everything. He looked ready to jump to her defence and she found the thought endearing, hoping that it wouldn’t be necessary. Gods, I’m just glad I kept him out of this. I just hope he understands. Whatever the case, she allowed herself a deep sigh and quietly extracted herself from the current crowd, slinking her way out the room..


    The Meltonian king was dangerous. She knew that he purposefully revealed those facts about Sophie because his original welcome was so lukewarm at best. In doing so he shifted the court’s attention from himself to Sophie and Eva. It irked her that she understood the motives and didn’t even blame the royal. A part of her was pissed but another part of her felt relieved. She had known that many simply turned a blind eye to Sophie’s existence, but that it would eventually be revealed. Guess that day was today, huh?


    She allowed herself a small smile as she began to plan the things she would need to do in the coming days. The task ahead seemed monumental but she felt invigorated by the challenge ahead of her. More importantly, she found this to be an unexpected opportunity for her. She cared for Sophie as kin, saw the half elf as more than a caretaker or maid but as a friend. This was her chance to repay that debt, to ensure that Sophie would be known and accepted by Carradorian society at large. If anything, to make sure she has at least a home to return to. Eva chuckled to herself, sorry for not coming after you Soph. I hope I can make it up to you somehow. Heh, hope you have a next Saint''s Day in Ostia next week.