An Audience With Egotism, Pt. 2

Inside my cabin I could share my true feelings with my Lady-in-Waiting about what had just taken place.
“Meredith, I truly wonder if going to war is as stressing as that meeting was.” I said, lowering myself to the divan.

“I pity you, Milady, having to face him like you did. But despite that, you handled it to perfection, in my opinion.” My Lady-In-Waiting poured a cup of Jomacha and delivered it to my hands.
“There is one thing I am curious about. You indicated that he knew your ancestor Cedric, but how could that be possible? That would make him at least-”

“Three thousand years old? He was actually born in the first age,  and precisely three thousand, five hundred and seventy-three years old.”

Meredith's eyes widened. “But he looks only to be about thirty years of age! I would never have thought him that old!”

I told her only what I had been told which was that he was a Langilike Vez-Dûn, a race of Vez-Dûn that was blessed with long life. There were only a few that existed of this race, and he was the most prominent.

“Yes, he does look young, and he is handsome too.” I admitted. “But Meredith, what is your thoughts?”

“Do you wish to know my opinion, or what I see?”
“I consider them one and the same. Speak freely to me.”
Meredith had proven her unique gift of insight and intuition of the real nature of people many a time at the court of Krespania, and I trusted her judgment.

“Simply put, he is egotistical and entirely selfish. I do not think anything I see will amount to anything others cannot see. His self-consuming is obvious.” She paused for a moment as if to think.
“I credit him with this: he is completely honest. What he says carries no deceit. But he has little fear of anyone being more intelligent or more superior, and subsequently, he has no faith in his fellow man.
“I must admit his character and peculiarities leave me wondering as to what has occurred in his life to result in such a merciless and proud nature. Has the power he has born these many years made him thus? I cannot help but wonder.”

“Well, it has not helped him any that there have been several assassination attempts upon his life. And I could probably say he has not any faith in man because he has lived through so many generations where all have proven their wickedness; He no doubt feels it would be in vain to do so.” I said, then added with a smile. “Not that he is any saint himself.”

I sipped from my Jomacha. “Though there is a mysterious in him, that I find intriguing, despite his intimidation. And something else to be admired...but I am not quite sure of what it is. Perhaps it is the authority in which he speaks and moves with, or his stalwart discipline. Hhmm, I doubt we shall meet again, since invitations to Isoloyia are very rare, so I shall probably never know.”

And that was the end of the discussion of King Hyndralad de Gundalia.
Once all of my armada had sufficient resources we set sail, where we are today: heading to Unoomad to face the trials reserved for us there.


-Emerald de Gavrillac
 Queen of Krespania

An Audience With Egotism, Pt. 1

At last, Isoloyia!

I could never find a more welcoming sight at that moment than it's tall towers of white stone gleaming in the sun, as pure and noble as a brilliant star.

Embedded high upon the mountainside, overlooking the city stretched out beneath it, stood the royal Vez-Dûn citadel and home of King Hyndralad de Gundalia.
As with all his structures, they represented his rule and character: cold, magnificent, dominating yet admirable and glorious.

That is according to the reports that have been told to me.
And only now have I had the chance to confirm or deny those rumors.
Though it mattered little to me, as long as I received my supplies.

When we put into port the steeds were unloaded and my company (which consisted of Meredith, my captain, two generals, four soldiers and my bodyguards) and I rode to the citadel, where we were escorted by the guards in their disciplined protocol through the wide halls to the throne room.

The interior boasted of opulence and grandeur though not ostentatiously; the architecture and décor was  set in such a way that it appeared clean, economical and without extravagance. It was as if there was not a pretension to impress any one, but that this majesty came simply and effortlessly.
The throne room was the same: the marble shone almost as bright as the snow in the winter sun, and great pillars rose to the tall ceiling on either side.
A crimson carpet lead the way through the center of the chamber and up the stairs to the raised dais at the end of the hall.

Even I, in my finest Krespanian gown and royal apparel, felt small and inadequate in such a place.
But this was nothing compared to what I was about to face.

A lone, slender figure sat on the throne that was drawn out in an island in front of the dais and directly above the stairs that descended from it.
And somehow just seeing his rigid posture as straight as the back of his marble throne sent trembles through me.
It was all I could do to keep my walk steady and graceful, as we approached, for in that instant I knew the rumors to be true that told of him as being stern and unfriendly.

We halted some distance before the nine foot dais, and bowed in homage to the Vez-Dûn king of Isoloyia.

The light through the deep sapphire pane of the three large windows behind the throne reflected against the silver hair of King Hyndralad, and sent colorful designs playing across the floor by our feet.

I hoped my voice would not betray me.
“Greetings, I am Queen Emerald de Gavrillac of Krespania, your humble servant.”
He looked down at us without lowering his head and said, “As I, King Hyndralad de Gundalia, greet you.” with a deep and commanding voice that lingered in the wide hall.
“I presume you have come to collect your supplies from us.”
“If it pleases Your Majesty.”
The corner of his lips turned slightly in a wry smile. “And why should it please me?”

This took me aback, and I was at a loss for words. “I-I... apologize if it is an inconvenience to Your Majesty. It is only I am in desperation; my ships have been depleted of all food and ammunition. We cannot possibly assist my brother, the Emperor, against Palkaan with what we have. If there were any other way...”
Hyndralad was silent for a moment then rose slowly from his throne and circling around it, descended the stairs of the dais.

I did not realize how tall he really was until he drew near; he stood two heads taller than I, which I would calculate to be about six foot and seven inches.
He studied me with his autumn-golden eyes, as if I were transparent and he could read every detail of my life.

I had never had the trouble of feeling inferior, being in power as I am, except for this moment; I felt as if I were only a peasant under his overpowering gaze, nothing more than dirt on the floor.

He made me feel as though I did not belong there; As like a slave, I should cower before his magnificence.

I so feared those penetrating eyes that I begun to drop my own to the floor, but then halted.
Why should I cringe before him? He is no more superior, that I should lower my eyes in shame.
And what about my soldiers who are starving inside their wooden prisons?
I must be strong for their sake.
I raised my head and boldly met his gaze.
I would not be intimidated.

He drew back slightly, and lifted his chin higher.
“My countries resources will be exhausted if I supply your needs. I am sorry, but I cannot help!” He said sharply.
“If you will not help for the good of others, then do it for my ancestor Cedric's sake!” I quickly retorted.

My anger replaced the fear inside of me, and the words spilled from my lips.
“Have you so easily forgotten your friendship with him? The only human in whom you put your trust?”

“Cedric,” He said, thoughtfully. “I knew not that his descendants still remained on the throne.”

“Only my brother, Lennox, who governs Agmar, and I, over Krespania, exist at present.” I said, and continued. “There is also my uncle who-”

King Hyndralad waved his hand for silence.
"Yes... I can recognize a little of Cedric within you. Wyles."
A servant emerged from the shadows. “Supply the Krespanian armada with all that they request.”

I bowed deeply, relieved that he did not continue to resist.
“Thank you, Your Majesty. My kingdom shall endeavor to repay you for your assistance.”

“It is not necessary. If I state a need for something in the future, perhaps...but for now we shall leave it as a gift for Cedric's descendants.” He said, then withdrew the same way he came, as if a sign the conversation was over.

My party bowed our leave, and only when I was back aboard The Golden Dawn and safely within my cabin did I breath a sigh of relief.


-Emerald de Gavrillac
 Queen of Krespania

Outwitted and Undermined

We are racing on the wings of the wind, and propelled by the vigor of the sea, across the Arctos Ocean to Unoomad.

With the wind as our ally we will be at our destination within five or so weeks.

Meanwhile my brother is scouting throughout the land to ascertain how far Palkaan's forces have reached.

I have not wrote in a few weeks, and perhaps you do not know what is happening.

I will start from the beginning.

We have realized we have underestimated Palkaan.

Unbeknown to us, his troops encamped at Aldrake was only a fraction of his whole force.

And he has used that to cover up his real operation, which was a quick invasion of the western continent starting from Erelli-Lion through Cressenar, and now up into Unoomad.

But knowing Palkaan he will not be satisfied with only these; he will continue forward to Agmar and Asram, and only stop when he has the whole world in submission to his menacing control.

Lennox immediately set sail with his troops to Palkaan's next destination and there will deploy his troops to meet him head-on.

It took my armada and I a little longer to leave as we had to wait for the army of Pasarz to replace us in Aldrake.

But once they arrived we did not need any extra time to depart.

Now we are sailing; hundreds of ships dotting the aqua blue sea, their white sails enlarged in the wind and cutting a sharp path through the waves.

Though this journey is not going to be as enjoyable as the first, I can already predict.

Our supplies are being exhausted and there is not room for luxury in such a situation.

Food and water are being rationed, our gunpowder and ammunition is running thin, and if we cannot gain more we will be in a dire predicament.

I do not have to state how terrible starvation is, or an outbreak of scurvy when there is no vegetables to be had.

And we will be at the mercy of the enemy if we come upon any of Palkaan's forces in this condition.

But it is a risk we have to take before we can arrive at Isoloyia, where hopefully we will receive supplies and be ready for action again.

At least that is what Lennox says, and I earnestly hope he is correct.

Isoloyia is an island some distance from the continent Unoomad is located on, and is not known for their friendly spirit.

The inhabitants of the island, Vez-Dûnes, are a race similar to ours but with their heights averaging a foot taller than most men.

There is not many Vez-Dûn colonies, and as a result I have not been acquainted much with them, but I have heard that they prefer to live isolated lives away from others, with Isoloyia being the extreme.

Isoloyia is so withdrawn and heavily guarded that they will not allow any visitors as consequence of a previous assassination attempt upon the Isoloyian ruler.

I do not know how Lennox managed to reserve an order of supplies from them, but it matters little as long as we receive it.

Once that happens a heavy burden will be lifted from my shoulders.

Of course it will again be replaced by something else, but I will not worry until that time arrives.

-Emerald de Gavrillac

 Queen of Krespania

A Friendly Provocation

My wish is granted, and temporary headquarters have been set up in the port of Aldrake;

No longer am I restrained on board my ship, but I can wander the lengths of the damaged streets that run from the entrance of the palace to the docks at the waterfront.

It is no Krespania countryside, but it is better than remaining on The Golden Dawn, and for that I am grateful.

Nothing has changed concerning Palkaan and his army.

We are having difficulty overcoming their defenses, and despite our relentless pressure and assaults upon them, they do not appear to be growing weaker nor stronger; they continue with interminable strength.

No war is short in life, and this one is proving the point impeccably.

And by acknowledging this fact, Lennox was brought to the conclusion that we need more power, and more specifically the assistance of King Dastrias of Pasarz, our longtime friend and ally.

Pasarz is located far east of Krespania in the desert regions, and from where we are, in the southern continent, it would take my brother many weeks to arrive at his domain.

But Valory D'Alvre's power of creating portals to anywhere desired was an advantage that could not be ignored.

Therefore Emperor Lennox, along with Lady Valory and a detachment of his men, went through the portal and arrived on the outskirts of the palace of Pasarz.

My brother said that he applied to King Dastrias for his help in the southern war but was surprisingly rejected.

He told my brother that he had grown too weak and was unfit for battle, and that he could not longer fight with the sword as in times past.

Lennox could not and would not believe this was true.

As he was departing the palace, he told me that the queen of Pasarz, Taahira, stopped him and asked for a private audience.

Her radiant beauty was marred with a look of sadness.

“Am I mistaken to believe you are here to enlist my husband, the king's help?”

He answered her that she was not. “But he has refused my request.”

The pain in her eyes deepened, and Lennox knew there was more to be spoken of the subject than was being let on.

“I found his lack of interest puzzling.”

Queen Taahira shook her head. “That is what I would like to discuss with you. Dastrias has steadily become this way over the last few months, until he thinks he is utterly useless, and cannot do anything.”

“Why has he come to think this about himself?” Asked my brother.

“I have found out from my servants, who I have asked to listen around the palace, that it is Hadeeqa- One of his other wives. She is poisoning his mind.”

Lennox wondered if this was the truth or a delusional accusation out of jealousy.

Perhaps she disliked the idea of Dastrias spending time with someone other than her, and fabricated the idea in anger.

Yet she seemed sad, not angry at that moment.

“How do you know this?”

“The servants heard her. She is very discreet and makes offhand comments, where at the time sound harmless enough, but after so long of it being put into your mind you begin to believe it. For example she says he should not do so many things because of his health, and that he not getting any younger, or that he should let the servants do what he is capable of doing. Things such as that.”

Taahira closed her eyes, and bowed her head. “And I can see what it is doing to him, and I abhor it. He is no longer the carefree, lighthearted and adventurous king that I married, but more like an elderly man, worried about his health.”

Lennox was convinced that she was telling the truth, and an idea emerged in his mind.

“Excuse me, Your Highness.” He bowed. “I will do what I can.”

He found his friend's armor-bearer and requested he deliver the king's sword and shield to his master.

When this was completed he returned to the gardens where Dastrias lounged and stared at his sword and shield in his hands as if they were strange and new to him.

Lennox drew his sword.

“Let us fight! To the death!”

Dastrias looked at him with a confused expression. “I cannot; I am too weak.”

“Too weak or too afraid?” He challenged.

“You know very well I do not fear you.”

“If you will not fight, I will be forced to think that.”

Dastrias rose slowly from the ground, clutching his sword in his right hand and his shield in his left.

“Very well.”

My brother told me that the swordplay that ensued was quick and animated, and while Lennox was not giving his total strength to it for fear that he would overpower him due to his constant practice on the field, Dastrias still possessed his edge and skill to keep him on his toes.

A little more time with the sword and all expertise would be restored to him as in the past.

The king of Pasarz's surprise turned to joy at learning he had not lost his abilities, and Lennox could immediately recognize the difference in him.

His cheer returned, and afterward they talked like the good friends they were, about many things before he pledged his service in the war at Aldrake.

My brother then returned by the way he came, with news that they will reinforce us when they arrive in about four weeks; time enough for King Dastrias to gather his troops and march south to Aldrake.

Perhaps with their support the war will end quicker, and we will have victory over Palkkan.

Let us hope...let us pray.

-Emerald de Gavrillac

 Queen of Krespania

The Tyrant Within Me

It is raining.

From inside my cabin aboard The Golden Dawn I can hear the downpour splattering the surface of the sea with vicious force, and I can hear the thunder rumbling overhead.

Out from my window and across a few miles of sea lay the city of Aldrake rising high upon the hill with it's towering walls.

It is ironic that despite the severe decimation it remains glistening and shining beautifully in the rain.

Southward and obscured by the density of the storm, the armies of Palkaan are steadfastly at work without a thought to the weather and as testimony to their master's determination.

In some moments I can hear the whistle of their catapults and the explosion as it meets the city, but they are only faint and only serve to aggravate me with my lack of vision.

But then, it is difficult for everything not to annoy me.

Each day is becoming more tiresome and dull, as I am locked inside this prison of wooden beams and sails.

And I am growing ill-tempered and claustrophobic because of it.

I am not really imprisoned, because if need be we could sail to another location.

But for the moment it is not needed.

The other ships in my armada are carefully circling the island on all sides, and those who are nearest are engaging upon the enemy.

But we are stationed just some distance from the port of Aldrake, issuing orders when my brother decides on a new approach or plan, and simply waiting.

I have begun to feel trapped in my own vessel, with little to do, and yearn to set my feet on dry land again.

Not just dry land, but to be able to wander through the peaceful fields and valleys of Krespania, or ride horseback across the hills.

But a ship is only so long and exercise is not to be had on board.

Therefore I must cope with my desires with not a sign of relief in the future.

Which produces a tyrant within me to be sure.

As for Lennox, he is plenty exercised; he is on the contrary, hardly still.

He met with the sultan of Aldrake and discussed his plans, then moved his troops alongside the outer city wall where he is upholding the breach Palkaan's troops have made.

The news I have received concerning it, have described it as a grotesque and violent skirmish, as Lennox seeks to take hold.

And I cannot help cringing at the thought of the danger he might be under over there, which only amplifies my discontent of remaining where I am.

Though my armada is a strong support for him, I still feel like I should be alongside him fighting, or doing something to help other than staying in my cabin!

But as the head commander, my brother knows where best we can assist him, and I must be satisfied with that.

I must be a pitiful creature in your eyes.

Always wanting to do so much more then I can manage.

-Emerald de Gavrillac

Queen of Krespania

The Siege of Aldrake

Dense clouds of dark smoke rose into the gray sky above the inflamed city of Aldrake, as the scene came into our view aboard The Golden Dawn.

Towers with gaping holes in the sides, belched fire and crumbled into hundreds of pieces as projectiles exploded into them.

Palkkan's two massive mortars were stationed on the south side of the wall, being cranked and fired with calculated precision at the defensive outer wall of Aldrake's city.
Thousands of men dotted the southern plain, all of them scurrying hastily in their given commands.

My hands tightened around the wooden taffrail of the ship, feeling the grief welling up as tears in my eyes.

The burning fires, the deathly black smoke, and the thunder of boulders crashing was all a devastating portrait for me to lay eyes upon.
I could already hear the screams and cries for help inside Aldrake though we were not in range of hearing.
I had heard it many times before in other battles.
And I could no more shut the cries out than I could come to their aid, no matter how much I wished to.

Oh, how I desired to do more than I could aboard this ship!
But it is impossible to save every individual, I had been told.
Yet this was something I continually struggled with, and felt guilt whenever I was unable to rescue those in need.
My generals tell me that some decisions require the loss of a few lives in exchange for thousands.
It is the cost of war.

But I am human not machine, and I cannot justify sacrificing one – not a number, but a living and breathing human being – to death when they are crying out to you, and you have the power to help.
I admit the truth in my generals' words, and the necessity to obey them, but as I said: it is a struggle.

We approached Aldrake's port, swiftly.
It was situated on the west side, and possessed two thick walls paralleling each other and forming a semi-circle around the port, that opened to the sea.
As you know, Lennox's ships are transporting his troops while my forces are strictly sea-going support, therefore it was our task to take the opening strike at a group of Palkkan's men who were holding the port and gate there.
The Krespanian armada came in at an angle and fired our cannons in a crippling blow, and then sailed aside as my brother landed his troops and overwhelmed those who were left.

It was one small victory, however there remained the bulk of Palkkan's army on the southern plain, continuing to assault the main gate with artillery in attempt to break through to the city.
As Lennox and his men made their way inside to strengthen Aldrake's fortifications from within, we sailed south and attacked Palkaan from the sea.
The reach of our cannons were limited, and we could not strike the central detachment but helped weaken those who were by the shores.
That attack must come from Lennox, who, according to our plan, will meet them head-on with his army.

But until that move has been executed, I have sent a company of ships to the other side of the island to ensure that Palkkan is not attempting to ambush us by sending more of his men from a different direction.
As for ourselves, we will continue to buffet Palkaan's left flank, and stave off any attack or escape that they undertake.


-Emerald de Gavrillac
 Queen of Krespania

Rendezvous At Rozkoria

Our fleet has reached the rendezvous point on the outskirts of the island Rozkoria.

I did not know at the time whether my brother and his ships were ahead of us or behind, but as we rounded the island I spotted him not far in the distance in the East.

We dropped anchor upon the shallow waters, and waited until The Ruler sailed alongside with Lennox standing stately upon the deck, Valory at his side.

Once they had dropped anchor I issued a skiff to be prepared, and with two of my crew we rowed out to meet them.

I was received by a cheerful Lennox, and the customary dry humor of Valory D'Alvre.

When the greetings were finished, we decided that we would dine on The Ruler that evening, where we could discuss the strategy we would take in assaulting Palkaan once we arrived at Aldrake.

On account of the occasion I deemed it necessary to dress in one my gowns, having worn a plain white, cotton blouse, trousers and boots since we first embarked.

I found that this clothing is less restraining and more efficient for movement upon a ship, and since

the court and social etiquette is not in effect on the ocean I will wear what is beneficial to my work aboard a ship.

When all was ready, the captain of The Golden Dawn, Meredith and I, with Jokthan rowed to The Ruler.

The sun was beginning to set as we climbed aboard, and was ushered into the captain's cabin below the stern deck.

Once inside I could see that there was a long rectangular table in the middle of the room, where food was laid upon, and tall candles glowed in the fading sunlight.

Lennox stood on one side of the table, dressed in a royal blue blouse with an embroidered vest of the same blue and black, that ran the length to his polished boots.

Valory stood beside him, wearing a purple and blue satin top that wrapped around from her neck and met in the center, overlaid with a black band of material winding around her middle.

The sleeves were long and flowing, hiding her arms from view, and the skirt flowed down to the rim of her silver boots.

I always found Valory's manner of dress to be one foreign to Krespania; it reflected the clothes of her home, San Vey, yet also retained her own style, which resembled men's clothing yet with her own touch of femininity.

I suppose it is because of her active lifestyle that she finds it more suitable to dress this way.

The evening continued with little excitement, but some cheer as we talked of times past and relived memories forged long ago.

But when the food and dishes were cleared away from the table Lennox pulled out the maps and started the discussion that would last the duration of the evening.

He explained the idea he had for the assault to the captain and I, and what direction the fleets would come from.

When much had been spoken on the matter, and the plans were laid, we returned to The Golden Dawn.

Since then we have unfurled all available sails in attempt to reach Aldrake within two days time.

Once at our destination, we will see how the situation lies, and how best we can defend the kingdom from Palkkan.

-Emerald de Gavrillac

  Queen of Krespania