Chapter 55 - Chapter 55 – Nobles' Meeting

It's the morning of the nobles' meeting, and Alara and Zara decided to take the first train to Avalon – Alara wanted to spend a bit of extra time with her mother. Zara will be Alara's only official bodyguard at the meeting, which we cleared with Ilina before I teleported her to the palace this morning. However, Ilina cautioned that, as a non-citizen, Zara can't continue to be Alara's attaché to meetings this high-profile. This will be the last time it's tolerated.

Alto, Nina, and I decided to wait in Eden for Cara to arrive by the new northern train. We're currently sitting in the family room together. In theory, if Cara's group left around sunrise like I suggested, then they should arrive here before the second eastern train departs for Avalon. If they don't, we'll just delay the eastern train's departure a bit. 

We haven't hired a third conductor for the northern train yet, but after news of how nice the job is spread from our first two conductors, we've got over a dozen pending applications from qualified individuals. Nina and I just need to do final interviews and approve one or two of them.

In the meantime, I've told Cara that I'll let her keep the control plates and manage the train, on the express condition that only her or Alyse operate it. Once Eden hires another conductor, the train will move back under Alara's control permanently. 

Speaking of Eden's employees, Percivil has been in less demand since the major construction in Eden slowed, so he's been pouring most of his time into the Earth games we drew up plans for. He's currently on the third floor of the mansion, in the big open room that's become his kind of private workshop for those items. 

He's working on the foosball tables right now, which don't require any special magic from me, and on the chess and checkers boards. When he finishes them, the only thing he'll have left from our original designs is the Rubik's cubes. All-in-all, he's probably not far from finishing everything. Soon, we'll have sufficient numbers of all the game tables I requested, and he'll have trained elves to make all the smaller games. 

Given that fact, I'd asked him about when he wanted to return to his shop in Elmesia, since he's probably losing business and reputation there as more time passes. However, he laughed and said he was in no rush. For one, he claimed that between his up front commission pay for his services here, and his future royalties off the smaller games, he'll never need to work another day in his life unless he wants to. I haven't been playing close attention to the amount of income from all my Earth games and the rec center, but apparently it's substantial. 

The other reason he isn't in a hurry to return is because I told him about the Empire situation after we returned from Elmesia last time. Apparently, he's 'past his fighting days' and has no interest in being anywhere near a potential invasion, even though I assured him that I wouldn't let something like that be successful.

So, he's staying put in our mansion's guest room for the time being. Elira never told me exactly when Percivil's and the wolf-kin's unofficial work visas expire, so I think it's okay short-term. Alara is also fine with him staying. Actually, she's interested in commissioning a number of quality enchanted items from him when he finishes his current projects. Now that I know about the lack of enchanting affinities among the elves, that makes sense. That reminds me....

"Alto, when we first traveled here together, a guard at the kingdom's eastern border gate said something about demi-humans and special permits. Can demi-humans like Zara get permits that let them work and/or sell things in your country?" (Mizuki)

Alto looks over at me in surprise, from her spot on the couch opposite me. We were sitting in silence, but my inner thoughts leaked out. 

"Well, yes, but normally it's just temporary permits to let them travel in our borders and sell things like pelts, monster parts, or herbs produced by their tribe. Still, it's uncommon, and they never stay long. Her current royal travel crest is the most access I've ever seen granted to a demi-human. If you're wondering if there are permits that would let Zara continue as Alara's personal guard in nobles' meetings, there are not." (Alto)

I'd already figured that arrangement wasn't long for this world. Honestly, I'm surprised that Ilina allowed it for us this time. I was fully expecting Zara to have to hang back...that's why I prioritized giving Alara those spell rings. All that's to say, what I'm actually curious about is...

"I wasn't, I am actually curious about dwarves. Are they allowed to get permits like that? With the elves' shortage of enchantment experts, I assume that your people would be more than happy to buy their enchanted items when the opportunity presents itself. Honestly, if you guys only have a single enchanting blacksmith in the whole country, why haven't your people set up an official trade agreement? Or even given some of them citizenship?" (Mizuki)

Alto makes a confused face. 

"I don't know about citizenship, but Queen Elira would love to set up a trade agreement with them. At the very least, she'd expedite work permits. Unfortunately, the dwarves aren't interested. Percivil seems to be a 'weirdo', as you say, so maybe he's given you the wrong impression. As a race, the dwarves are quite ornery craftsmen, and prefer to live in isolation in the mountains. On occasion, elves desperate for enchanted items will spend months or more in Gelrod's Pass visiting their semi-nomadic villages, but they almost always return empty-handed." (Alto)

Seriously? They're that different from Percivil? I mean, the dude has some eccentricities about what gets his crafting engine revving, but he's made just about anything that I asked of him. In retrospect, I guess there was bound to be some selection bias for a dwarf willingly living in a human city. Plus, he may be partial to my requests due to his history with that otherworlder. Still, it's surprising that his whole race is routinely swerving the elves' crafting requests. 

"Wow...I, uhm...did not know that most dwarves were so different from him. In that case, I don't know if Percivil and Alara would be interested or not, but do you think Elira would sanction him having an official blacksmithing shop here in Eden? That'd be crazy beneficial to the elves, right?" (Mizuki)

"I don't know how much independence Queen Elira would be able to give him, but I'm sure she'd do everything in her power to keep him here if he was willing to stay and work. At the very least, I'd expect that we could get him a kind of permanent work permit, so that he can sell things here and profit from them. If we build a shop and another house in my name, then we can just let him use those. Practically speaking, he'd be almost like a citizen. However..." (Alto)

Alto smirks and shakes her head in exasperation. 

"...if you think that the other nobles hate you now, just wait and see how they react if Eden acquires its own dwarven blacksmith and enchanted item shop. Eden will become like a second royal capital." (Alto)

Is...is it bad that I find that kind of hate somewhat appealing? That's petty of me, right? I smirk back at Alto. 

"Oh no...I'll need to find some way to sleep at night if that happens." (Mizuki)

Alto snorts. 

"What, are your two beautiful lovers not enough? Considering a third, perhaps?" (Alto)

Nina, who'd been silently listening in amusement until now, suddenly chuckles. 

"Fufufu...oh, I don't think Ilina would like that at all. Perhaps she'd make an exception for Alara, though?" (Nina)

I roll my eyes at both of them. I'm going to ignore Nina's insanity. 

"Actually, Alto, I figured I'd just start taking nightly joy flights....alone. Your thoughts?" (Mizuki)

Alto's eyes narrow murderously.

"Sounds dangerous...I hope you don't get yourself hurt." (Alto)

You know...I'm, like, 88% sure she's joking, but that elf is really fucking scary sometimes. I quickly clear my throat and change the subject. 

"Ehem...well, it's probably getting close to time for the second eastern train to arrive. Shall we make our way down to the station to wait?" (Mizuki)

Alto and Nina nod their agreement, and we rise from the couches to depart. As we do, I remember our discussion about Percivil. I search for him upstairs with magic sense.

[Hey, Percivil! We're about to head down to the train station, and I'll be busy for quite a few days after we depart. So, do you mind chatting with me on the walk over there? I had some things I wanted to run by you.] (Mizuki)

After I send my thought message, we make our way out into the main reception hall of the mansion. As we do, I see Percivil come walking down the stairs toward us, a curious smile on his face. 

"Aye, Mizuki! It's been a while since we had a good chat, so I'm happy to humor yah. I know yah've been busy, but I appreciate yah checking in! What did yah want to talk about?" (Percivil)

I smile back at him warmly as he falls in line beside the three of us. We exit the mansion and begin making our way down the mountainside stairs on foot. 

"It's good to see you, too, Percivil. I actually wanted to talk about your stay here. I had no idea until recently about the dwarves' reputation as a race for refusing most enchantment crafting requests. Between that and the elves' natural lack of affinity for enchanting, your skills are apparently in exceedingly high demand here." (Mizuki)

Percivil gives a wry smile. 

"Aye, so yah finally figured out that this ol' man's an oddball, eh? Sure, it's as yah say. The other dwarves are picky about their jobs to begin with, but they especially avoid enchanting jobs. Think it ain't pure smithing, or some other nonsense. Personally, I think yer crafting is all about clarity of purpose, yah know? Some jobs are basic, like making plain swords for adventurers, but I still take pride in making those tools absolutely perfect for the minor destinies they have." (Percivil)

I give an amused smile. 

"I've never looked at it that way...funny to think of items and weapons as having destinies." (Mizuki)

"Fufufu...I think yah look at it that way more than yah think. That first day in my shop, yah didn't come in and ask for a really specific item. Yah wanted a purpose fulfilled and asked me to give yah the right tool for it. Yah focused on the item's destiny first! Yah didn't care about some flashy work of art for the sake of having it. That's part of why I liked yah, yah know?" (Percivil)

I raise my eyebrows in surprise. I guess he may have a point...I am more of a function-first kind of guy. Still, I think most of what he was picking up on was my inexperience. It would have been stupid of me to not leave most of the decisions up to him, the expert. If that endeared me to him, though, I'm not going to argue. 

"Huh...I suppose you may be on to something there. In any case, I'm becoming more aware that you're even more rare of a man than I already thought, so I wanted to thank you again for using your considerable skills to aid Eden's construction. I know it wasn't all flashy like the games from my home planet, but I do like to think everything had a clear purpose in mind." (Mizuki)

Percivil smiles in amusement. 

"Aye, it did." (Percivil)

We continue descending the steps in comfortable silence for a few minutes. However, it grows awkward, so I ask him a question that's been on my mind since I learned enchanting from him.

"Hey, speaking of items you've made...Zara's lightning sword. You taught me that the way enchanting works is, after the item is activated with the enchanting spell, you have to cast the spell you want imbued on it. In that case..." (Mizuki)

Percivil nods with a sly grin. 

"Fufufu...yer wondering how I put something as rare as a lightning spell on the sword, aren't yah?" (Percivil)

"Yeah, pretty much. I thought at first that you must have just hired someone to cast it, like you keep a network of people with certain affinities to hire for making those special items. Now that I know just how rare that affinity is, though, even among the elves....it just doesn't seem as likely." (Mizuki)

Percivil begins stroking his beard, and looking around as though to see if anyone is listening. After a moment, he smiles back at me, and speaks in a low tone. 

"Aye, I guess I don't mind telling yah. Just don't spread my secrets, eh? This is a little-known enchanting trick that I learned on my travels over the years. It's finicky, but if yah have one item that's already enchanted with a certain spell, you can copy it onto another item. So, I've made a habit of acquiring items with rare enchantments that I can use for things like Zara's sword." (Percivil)

I feel my whole body tense...that's actually terrifying information. I've been protective of the train control plates and spell rings out of general paranoia about the secrets of magic being exposed and violating Azazel's rules. But what he's saying...could they actually be copied by someone like Percivil?

"Percivil...can you explain exactly how you do that? Copy one item's enchantment?" (Mizuki)

"Aye, like I said, it's finicky. Basically, yah got to make a kind of mold for the weapon and enchant that. Yah prime the item yah want to enchant with the spell I taught yah, then you put it in the enchanted mold and flow magic into it. The enchanted item kinda mimics casting the spell in the enchanting process, but it's not great. Even after refining my skills, and with a good enchanted mold, the process ruins four or five swords before enchanting one right. The metal in those swords is expensive to waste, so I only do that for rare enchantments." (Percivil) 

I involuntarily breath a sigh of relief...I think I have some idea of how that works, then. If I'm right, my items are safe for now. I need to be sure, though. 

"I see...what about if you held another enchanted sword right next to the one your enchanting, and activated the enchantment on it. Would it be transferred the same way?" (Mizuki)

Though I try to hide it, I think some of my nervousness leaks into my tone. Percivil shakes his head. 

"Nah, I've tried it myself. Yah really need the molds. Whatever spell is being conjured on the enchanted item needs to really 'sink in' on the new one you're enchanting, yah know? They can't just be overlapping a bit. The item being enchanted needs to be fully surrounded by the spell from the first enchanted item. That's what I've noticed, anyway." (Percivil)

Phew...as I suspected, this secondhand enchanting seems to require bathing the primed metal in the direct physical effects of the spell from the first enchanted item, and the new enchanted item just produces the same spell around itself. Since my train control plates and spell rings all project spells' physical effects away from themselves, this process shouldn't work for copying them. Still, this scare only goes to show that my caution was warranted. 

I smile at Percivil gratefully, and let out a deep breath.

"Thanks, Percivil, that explanation is very helpful." (Mizuki)

Percivil nods, seeming somewhat puzzled by my intensity toward the end.

"Uhm...sure, I don't mind." (Percivil)

We fall into a silent walk once more, and I'm reminded of the reason I called him out here in the first place. I'd like to bring it up more organically, but I guess it's best to just be direct with him. 

"Well, Percivil, there was something else on my mind. It seems quite likely that, if you wanted to, you could probably open your own shop in the Elven Kingdom. There'd be some technicalities, of course, but we'd make sure to smooth those over for you. More or less, you'd have your own house and shop, and an endless stream of eager customers with varied requests and plenty of money. Plus, we could commission you for any special projects in Eden or other cities more easily. Is that an arrangement you'd be interested in, by chance?" (Mizuki)

Percivil's eyebrows raise in surprise, and he smiles. 

"Lady Alara made me a similar offer not too long ago, eh? I turned her down. It's not unappealing, far as offers go, but I'm attached to that little shop of mine in Elmesia. More importantly, there are streams of people out there braving the Delmura Forest. They got burning purposes for some items, ones they trust their very lives with, and I can't quite bring myself to abandon them, yah know? That said...if this is a personal favor to you, I might consider it." (Percivil)

I smile despite myself...Alara already tried to poach him, huh? I have to give her credit for that. I'm surprised she never mentioned it to me. 

"Fufufu...I didn't know about Alara's request, but it sounds like something she'd do. Please don't consider this a personal favor. You should do whatever feels right for you. However, you don't have to abandon your Elmesia shop to open another one here, just so you know. It'd be quite easy for you to do as Alara asked, and keep your Elmesia store running semi-normally." (Mizuki)

Percivil's head snaps toward me in shock, and his tone becomes a little shrill. 

"What's this!? Yah know something I don't, Mizuki!?" (Percivil)

"Fufufu...well, you're my friend, so of course I'd help you out if that's what you wanted. You've seen the MMC I made in our family room, right? And you know Levi and his adventuring party?" (Mizuki)

"Aye...I do..." (Percivil)

"Right, well they actually joined my party recently. I'm sure they'd be happy to take turns managing simple day-to-day sales and filing custom crafting requests at your shop there, and I installed an MMC in their home. So, you could do all your crafting in a nice, big shop here, exchange updates with them through the MMCs, and only go back there as needed. As long as you don't mind up to a one-day delay for me to be available, I'd teleport you and any items directly between locations. Alternatively, you could stay in Elmesia and we'd do the opposite, with someone else managing the store here." (Mizuki)

Percivil's voice rings out immediately, laced in disbelief.

"Yah'd go through all that trouble just for me!?" (Percivil)

I give him a puzzled look. 

"First of all, that's not much trouble for me. Alara would be handling most of the details, I'd just spend a few seconds of my time teleporting you every now and then. Second, it's hardly 'just for you', you know? Pretty much everyone would benefit. Levi and his group get some stable additional income, the elves get a much-needed source of enchanted items, Alara gets a huge boost in Eden's economy, and my friend Percivil gets to expand his business." (Mizuki)

Percivil looks off to the horizon with a conflicted expression, as though contemplating the offer seriously. 

"Mizuki's being serious, Percivil. I know it sounds like he's just being modest, but that's really how he feels. For the record, I agree with him." (Alto)

Alto, who has apparently been eavesdropping next to us, interjects. Percivil gives her an appreciative smile, then glances between both of us. Did he really think I was just being modest? The guy's seriously valuable as a craftsman...I find it hard to believe he thought I stand nothing to gain from his presence here. 

"Aye, I'll take some time to think about yer offer then." (Percivil)

Huh...guess so. I grin stupidly back at him. 

"Great, please do! If you decide that you want to take us up on the offer, then just let Alara know your preferences directly. Tell her I said you deserve your own house if you want your main site of operations to be here. In the meantime, I'll see about getting Queen Elira's permission for a permanent work permit for you. Just in case. If you decide against the idea later, that's no problem." (Mizuki)

Percivil is silent for a few moments. 

"Hey, Mizuki..." (Percivil)

"Yeah?" (Mizuki)

"I'm glad yah stumbled into my store." (Percivil)

I can't help but smirk at that one. 

"Fufufu...me too, buddy." (Mizuki)

¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬

Alto, Nina, and I make our way down to Eden's eastern train station and take a seat. Percivil decided to turn back after we finished our discussion, saying he had projects he wanted to work on while he thought over my offer. 

I reach out with magic sense to track Cara's progress on the northern train, looking for moving high elf signatures. To my surprise, I detect two of them very close to the northern train station. That can only mean one thing.

"Huh...it looks like Alyse has decided to join Cara this morning. They should be arriving at the northern station right now. They'll probably meet up with us in half an hour or so, assuming they come straight here." (Mizuki)

Alto and Nina crane their necks at me quizzically, then Alto focuses intently for a few moments. Eventually, her eyes widen in surprise. 

"It seems you're right. I can sense them, too, so they must be close." (Alto)

"Oh, you can tell it's them? Does this mean you finally got enough control over your magic sense to screen out power levels effectively?" (Mizuki)

Alto makes a pouting expression. 

"No...I'm not as good with the technique as you are yet. Absolute power levels and distances are still difficult for me to gauge, so I had to cheat. Recently, I had Prin-...err, Ilina...work with me to tune my magic sense to high elves, just like you taught me." (Alto)

I don't really consider that cheating, Alto, but way to be a try-hard, I guess. 

"Oh, nice, that's a useful one to have. Anyway, do you think she's here to accept the offer to join us?" (Mizuki)

"Fufufu...after Mizuki's theatrics yesterday, she probably wanted to attend the nobles' meeting to see what fun schemes will be had!" (Nina)

Not everyone is like you, Nina. I sigh internally. Alto just shrugs. 

"It's possible that you're both right, you know?" (Alto)

I guess she makes a fair point. Either way, we'll know soon. That reminds me, though, I should probably tell them where we are, just in case. Plus, I probably won't get a better chance to have a little fun at Alyse's expense. I lock onto both of them through magic sense. 

[Hey, Cara! Nina, Alto, and I are at the eastern train station waiting on you. Alyse, I'm glad you decided to join your sister today. I look forward to chatting again!] (Mizuki)

Around half an hour later, I see that characteristic red hair flowing in the wind as Cara and Alyse make their way toward us. To my surprise, the only other person with them is Vito, Cara's loyal guard. I guess they're going with the minimal escort this time. As they near us, we rise to our feet, and I give a friendly wave and smile. 

"Cara, Alyse, Vito...it's good to see you all again!" (Mizuki)

Vito smiles and gives a polite nod, and Cara gives me an amused smile. 

"You as well, Mizuki. Lady Nedonera, I trust you're ready for today? I'm sure it will be a rather...involved...meeting." (Cara)

"Fufufu...oh, yes...I'm quite excited." (Nina)

Cara makes a nervous expression at that retort, but...fair. Nina saying she's excited for a meeting is a sure sign that said meeting will be a nightmare for anyone sane. I turn my gaze to Alyse, and I see her staring at me, terrified. When we lock eyes, she quickly moves over next to me and whispers quietly. 

"Mizuki...can you...read my mind?" (Alyse)

Alyse stares at me, completely serious, and obviously terrified. That's...so much better of a reaction than I was expecting! Oh, god, that's priceless! I do my best to stifle laughter as I respond to her with the most serious expression I can muster. I'm going to test out a theory of mine.

"Don't worry, I'm not upset by what you were thinking about Alto. I didn't tell her either." (Mizuki)

Alyse's face turns beet red, and she looks at me like I was peeping on her in the shower. Yup, I'd say that anecdotally confirms hypothesis number two for her prior behavior around Alto – Alyse has the hots for her. I also thought she might have a kind of warrior-rivalry type obsession, but that shouldn't produce this reaction. 

"Mizuki! That's a huge invasion of my privacy! You can't...just....." (Alyse)

Alyse is fumbling over her words, and she's starting to look genuinely distraught. Great, now I feel bad. I quickly make a placating gesture, and whisper back to her frantically. 

"Woah, woah, Alyse! No, I'm sorry! I can't actually read your mind, I promise! I was only teasing you, and that comment about Alto was just a guess on my part. I swear! I haven't even voiced that opinion to her. My joke was out of line, and I'm really, really sorry. I let my intrusive thoughts get the best of me there." (Mizuki)

Alyse slowly begins to calm herself, then glares at me menacingly. 

"You're a real asshole...you know that?" (Alyse)

I lower my head at bit, hearing that. I think she's earned some atonement from me for that one. 

"That's fair...I really am sorry. How about, as an apology, I give you my word to never lie to you in private? I've made your sister the same promise, so she can assure you that I'll keep it. That way, I couldn't trick you like that again even if I wanted to." (Mizuki)

Alyse stares at me suspiciously for several moments, her anger still evident, but it's slowly declining. Eventually, she sighs and nods. 

"Yeah, she mentioned it...seems like you take those kinds of promises seriously for some reason. Alright, I accept. Just so you know, though, you're not on my good side yet. That was a seriously messed up thing for you to do, even as a joke." (Alyse)

I grimace at her admonishment. 

"Understood..." (Mizuki)

Alyse sighs again. 

"Good. Well then, my first question is...can you actually just teleport anywhere in the world instantly? Cara told me about some of your abilities last night, at least the ones she has seen. That one stuck out to me." (Alyse)

I smile and nod.

"That's correct. It's how I left those items on Cara's desk last night, and how I returned home. However, I can only teleport to places that I've been to before. Speaking of the items I dropped off last night, did you enjoy the train ride here? Pretty cool, right?" (Mizuki)

Alyse shakes her head in exasperation. 

"Way to jump from one absurd thing to the next. But yes, the 'train' was exhilarating. I've never moved so fast in my entire life. All of these magic items are actually being made by you, right? Not 'your Lady'?" (Alyse)

"That's right, but that's not to be discussed with others. If you don't mind." (Mizuki)

Alyse hold her hands up, as though in surrender. 

"Sure, my lips are sealed. That's incredible, though...." (Alyse)

Alyse looks off, distracted. 

"Ehem...by the way, Alyse, why are you here? I really am glad to have you, but I can't help but be curious. Are you hoping to join the nobles' meeting? Are you relaying a decision about joining us? Did you just want to try out the train?" (Mizuki)

Alyse suddenly becomes serious, and she nods. I actually asked three questions, so I don't know what that nod is supposed to mean.....but whatever. 

"It took some work, but I convinced Cara to bring me to the meeting as one of her escorts. Also, yes...I was very excited to ride the train. As for your other question, I don't know yet. I've been considering it, but I want to wait until this meeting is over before I make a decision. It sounds like what I learn will be pretty relevant." (Alyse)

Really? I'm honestly curious how she did that...Cara doesn't seem like she'd be particularly receptive to that proposal. Also...yeah, Alyse has it pegged. I'd say she's going to learn quite a bit of information about us at the meeting. I nod sympathetically to Alyse. 

"Well, it sounds like your day's going to be quite interesting. I look forward to hearing about your decision afterward." (Mizuki)

Alyse's expression becomes apprehensive.

"Why does the word 'interesting' sound so ominous coming from you..." (Alyse)

What? I think that was a totally normal response! As I'm thinking over a witty retort... 

"Ehem...Mizuki, it appears the train is arriving." (Alto)

Snapped from my thoughts, I turn to Alto. She's gesturing over her shoulder, and I can see the train pulling into the station. Whelp, I guess it's showtime. 

I feel a strange, nervous energy run through my body...I haven't experienced it in quite some time. Though, I suppose I am about to throw my life into serious disarray, aren't I? That will probably go double for Ilina. Moment of truth, as they say.

I take a shaky breath, then turn to Alto and Nina with a smile and talk in my loud, official voice. 

"My Lady, Alto, shall we depart with Ladies Cara and Alyse? After all, we don't want to keep everyone waiting for such an important event." (Mizuki)

¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬

The train ride ends up being relatively uneventful, at least for me. Nina and I sit together, Vito and Cara, and Alyse and Alto. Truthfully, I'm dying to know what the last pair talked about in those two hours, especially after my little forced confession with Alyse earlier. Should I have warned her that Alto is....hmm, well...would this world understand the phrase, 'asexual bibliophile'? 

When our group exits the train, and we make our way towards the royal palace, we get lots of looks from the common elves. This meeting isn't like the Royal Announcement, there is no official public knowledge of its happening. Plus, most of our group is pretty well known at this point. So, these elves are just seeing the infamous red-haired noble, an Elder Dragon, and a human strolling through their city casually. 

To my great joy, there's lots of pointing and whispering, but virtually no disdain or hostility. They mostly seem excited, like seeing a celebrity out and about. Honestly, experiencing things like this after my initial reception makes it hard for me to believe I'm really making no difference in how these people view humans – what the others said last night. But I guess that's just wishful thinking on my part, and an unwillingness to see myself as anything other than a 'human' influence. 

We arrive at the palace main entrance, and I see a familiar face standing by the door. It's Ren, one of the guards that was on door duty when Ilina first escorted us to meet the Queen. The one that made a joke about other guards getting jumpy and stabbing me because I'm human...I liked the guy. Apparently, he recognizes me, too, because he immediately smiles. 

"Oh, hey Mizuki! Long time no see! It seems you've made yourself quite at home here, eh? Roaming around the palace freely, hanging out with an Elder Dragon, waving to the elves in the city like your friends, and the like. You've come a long way, so congrats! Ladies Nedonera and Cara, and the rest of you, welcome!" (Ren)

I smile uncertainly back at him....I'm not quite sure if those were compliments or not. Something about the way he said 'roaming around the palace freely'...

"Uhm...thanks, Ren....it's good to see you again, too. I'm genuinely uncertain, is there sarcasm buried in there? Also, my Lady was with me when we first met..." (Mizuki)

Ren smiles politely, and I still can't tell if it's genuine. 

"Oh? Think nothing of it! It's just that the inner guards will occasionally mention seeing you in the palace, but nobody ever seems to see you enter or exit. Not me, certainly...the one overseeing external security. As for last time we met, I suppose you're right, but we certainly didn't know your Lady was an Elder Dragon. After all, if we'd been told that, that throne room guard wouldn't have tried to throw her in a cell for not kneeling. I got a lot of the blame for that near-lethal encounter..." (Ren)

"Fufufu...oh yes, that was quite entertaining! I remember you now!" (Nina)

Not helping, Nina! Cara and Alyse just stare at me like I'm an idiot. Or a troublemaker. Or both...I can't really tell. Alto is clearly giving me an 'I told you so' look, like she fully expected my casual treatment of palace visits to catch up with me. 

Ren maintains his smile, but he's staring at me pointedly. Oh boy...yup, he's definitely upset with me. Time to deflect. I hold my hands up placatingly. 

"Hey, hey I was just following Princess Ilina's lead, you know? It wasn't my place to go around talking unnecessarily on my first visit! I didn't want to get stabbed for accidentally being disrespectful, right? Anyway, that's crazy about you guys never seeing me – I didn't know I had such a forgettable face." (Mizuki)

Ren's face clearly says 'bullshit', but the other guard uncomfortably clears his throat. 

"Ehem...uhm, Ren? Shouldn't we get them to the conference room? The meeting isn't too long from now..." (other guard)

Ren sighs deeply and nods. 

"Yeah, I suppose so. Mizuki, we've all been told to never impede you when you're seen here, unless the King or Queen directly orders us to. But I'd consider it a personal favor if you'd be a bit more...obvious...when you enter the palace from now on. Yeah? Anyway, let me escort you all to the conference room the meeting is being held in. Follow me!" (Ren)

Ren ushers us behind him and starts leading us through the castle. I've been here enough now to know that he's taking us to the roundtable conference room where the first nobles' meetings were held. As we walk, Alyse slides over next to me, then tries to whisper quietly. 

"Hey...Mizuki...uhm, on the train, Alto told me that you guys are just friends. That true?" (Alyse)

Well now, at least I know one thing they talked about. I smirk at Alyse and nod. 

"Definitely. Our relationship is completely platonic, and I promise you that she feels the same way. So, if you're wondering if she's single, the answer is yes. That said, I wouldn't expect much success wooing her if I was you." (Mizuki)

Alyse looks embarrassed at first, like she's going to deny that she fancies Alto that way, but then she just gives me a glum expression and whispers back to me. 

"So.....she is into men then. I thought for sure, given how attached she seems to you, that if there was nothing romantic between you...it must be because she's into women." (Alyse)

"Fufufu...I haven't seen her show any interest in men. In fact, she's outright said that she'd prefer any new group members to be women, because she didn't want men bothering her with their flirting. Or, something like that. Still, I wouldn't assume that she's into women." (Mizuki)

Alyse looks hopeful at first, then turns puzzled. 

"I'm confused, what would she be into, then?" (Alyse)

I have to stifle laughter as I shrug.

"Books, magic, and research?" (Mizuki)

Alyse gives me an annoyed expression, but before we can discuss it further, Ren speaks over his shoulder. 

"Alright everyone, here you are! I'll be heading back to my post now." (Ren)

I turn my attention back to our group, and we're standing in front of the conference room that I anticipated. At Ren's direction, the door guards begin ushering us into the room as Ren walks back the way we came. Cara's group enters first, then we follow them with Nina in front. 

As we pass through the door, I start to take stock of those present. The Queen, King, and Ilina are absent, as are Alara and Zara, but the other nobles are all here already – Helena, Darak, Jorah, Tessa, and their escorts. I'm guessing nobody told them that we'd be here, because most of them look pretty surprised to see us again. A couple of them also look displeased to see me again. I won't name names, though. 

Nina takes a seat at the table, and Alto and I take our places behind her. As we do, Tessa Uril narrows her eyes at me with a barely suppressed scowl, before directing a polite smile at Nina. Jorah is giving me a pretty menacing stare, and seems conflicted about whether to speak. Not surprising, considering that Nina threatened to murder him if he was ever disrespectful again. 

"Great Dragon...I must say, I'm surprised to see you and your party at another of these meetings. Was there another development with Veyron, perhaps?" (Tessa)

"Yes, err..Great Dragon, I was wondering the same thing." (Jorah)

Nina gives an amused smile back to Tessa and Jorah. 

"There was no such development, no. I suspect that Veyron will not bother the elves for at least a dozen millennia." (Nina)

"I see...that's wonderful news, Great Dragon. We appreciate that you were so thorough. In that case, my I ask why you are here?" (Tessa)

Nina smirks at Tessa's question. Before she can respond, however, Helena snorts and interjects.

"Playing coy, Tessa? I notice that you didn't express any surprise over having another one of these meetings so soon. So, you must be aware of this 'train' and the other developments in Alara's new city, like the rest of us. I'm sure you suspected they are the subject of this meeting. Did you think Queen Elira would call such a meeting without inviting the people responsible for those developments?" (Helena)

Tessa keeps her face neutral as she glances briefly at Helena before returning her gaze to Nina. 

"Oh? A 'train', you say? Yes, I do believe that I've heard of the device. It's capabilities strain the imagination...there's nothing even remotely like it anywhere in the world. Truthfully, if I had not seen it myself on the way into the city, I wouldn't have believed such a thing to be possible. Tell me, Great Dragon, is this device the reason for your presence? Perhaps you plan to explain to the elves how they are made?" (Tessa)

If there was any doubt that the nobles want trains of their own, it's shredded by the sight of all of them leaning forward in anticipation for the answer to Tessa's question. I see Cara glancing at me nervously, and Alyse is watching the exchange with a look of...excitement!? Nina leans her head over to rest in her hand, and looks back at Tessa curiously. 

"You desire trains of your own, hmm? Yes, Mizuki predicted as much. He thought that you would all be quite displeased with only Alara possessing one, and that you would trouble Queen Elira as a result. He suggested addressing your concerns quickly, to avoid such an outcome. This meeting is an opportunity to do so. There are also other matters Mizuki wishes to discuss. Those are the reasons for my presence." (Nina)

Several of the nobles, including Tessa and Jorah, raise their eyebrows and glance at me. Jorah smiles genuinely and returns his attention to Nina, before responding in an unnervingly cheerful tone. 

"How splendid, Great Dragon! Your hum...err, Mizuki, is correct. So, this meeting is to work out the details of when we'll each be getting these 'trains' in our own territories? The elves are truly blessed by your generosity with these items." (Jorah)

I almost can't keep the dumbfounded look off my face...how does he continue to be so dense? How is this man responsible for nearly a quarter of the developed country? 

[Mizuki, this man's stupidity is truly baffling. Are you sure that we really desire his advice for your plans?] (Nina)

That's...a fair question, but the nobles are a package deal. So, while I'm not particularly fond of Jorah, nor do I respect his intelligence, I want the nobles as a whole to be supportive of our actions against the Empire. That goes for everything else in the future as well. 

[I understand your feelings, Nina. Just do me a favor and play semi-nice.] (Mizuki)

I sense resignation and exhaustion from Nina, and she looks like she's preparing to respond to Jorah. However, someone steps forward from the escort behind him. I didn't notice the guy before, but...damn...he is model-level good-looking. He's taller than me, lean but well-muscled, and his hand is resting naturally on the hilt of his sword. He's got a chiseled jaw, golden blonde hair, and a relaxed expression. 

Actually, it's kind of unnerving how pretty-boy attractive this guy is, especially for a guard. Like, no judgement, but does Jorah have him around for...other purposes? Too bad for the guard that there's no title IX policies in this world to protect him from sexual harassment by his boss. 

Mr. Handsomest Guard leans over towards Jorah, preparing to speak to him quietly. 

"Father, perhaps it is improper to jump to conclusions. Besides, we should delay further discussions until our Queen is present. Don't you agree?" (Jorah's son!?)

Did he say 'Father'!? This is Jorah's son!? I have...so many questions. If Jorah's son is this attractive, and seemingly much more intelligent than Jorah...well, what's Jorah's wife like? More importantly, why is she with Jorah? 

"Oh, yes, yes. You're quite right, Zakariah. Fufufu...what a refined young man I've raised!" (Jorah)

Oh boy...proud papa alert here. To his credit, Zakariah doesn't look annoyed, he just nods politely and returns to his position. As he does, he locks eyes with me, and his gaze lingers as he studies my face intently. Surprisingly, I don't see the characteristic scowl of Jorah when our eyes meet. Instead, I see mostly suspicion, with a hint of curiosity. Strange...I thought hating me was encoded in the Abel DNA. 

Meanwhile, Darak has just been watching the events unfold with an amused smile, and he keeps glancing between me and Cara periodically. Knowing him, that's probably bad news for us. I glance behind him to his escorts, and I see Vena Zardo, the daughter that tried to handle me behind his back last time. When she catches my gaze, I see her purse her lips in disapproval. I just smile back in return, and she clenches her jaw and looks away. I guess she's not a fan?

Doing my best not to laugh at Vena, I turn my attention to the other escort next to her. As my eyes start to study the young woman, I freeze – I recognize her. That's one of the girls that we rescued from Cedonia's slave trade. In fact, I think she's the one that spoke up and thanked me toward the end of our journey.

So...this is the Zardo daughter I've been hearing about. What reason could she possibly have for being here? Also, what was her name again? I don't think I ever knew it, actually. Is she here to advise Darak about my abilities, and/or to fact-check me? Did she already tell him what she knows about me? 

The girl seems to notice my gaze on her, and she turns to me in surprise. After a moment wearing a blank expression, recognition dawns on her face. She gives me a genuine smile and a polite nod. That's actually pretty friendly of her....maybe I shouldn't jump to conclusions.

I smile back at her. 

[Hey! I wasn't expecting to see you again, at least so soon, but I'm glad that you seem well. Oh, also, I can't read your mind. I can only speak to you like this.] (Mizuki)

The girl's eyes widen in surprise briefly, then she smiles at me once again and gives a subtle nod. I guess that means that she is doing well. I actually am glad to hear that. That said...I do want to know something, since she's here. I feel bad for asking, though. 

[If you don't mind, could you tell me...have you told your father the truth about me? My abilities and everything else? I meant what I said last time – you don't owe me anything. So, you don't have to answer, and I won't be upset if you told Darak everything. I just want to know where I stand. Perhaps scratch your ear for 'yes', your cheek for 'no', or your nose if you'd rather not answer me. I'll respect your wishes, I promise." (Mizuki)

To my surprise, the girl rolls her eyes and gives me a wry smile. Then, she scratches her cheek...emphatically? Sarcastically? It's hard to properly categorize. Still, the message is clear – 'of course I didn't tell him, I'm offended you even asked'. 

The surprise is clearly written on my face. I know she probably feels some gratitude, but...seriously!? She didn't even squeak to her own father!? If her father was an asshole, maybe I'd be less surprised, but Darak is cool. She really took her vow of silence that seriously? 

[Fufufu...sorry, I didn't mean to imply anything offensive! I just couldn't help but wonder. He is your father, after all, and he seems like a very nice man on top of that. Anyway, I appreciate your discretion. I'll try to think of a way to repay you for it.] (Mizuki)

The girl gives me a puzzled expression, but the door to the conference room opens suddenly, interrupting everyone's trains of thought. Alara and Zara walk into the room and promptly take their positions, then Elira, Dargo, and Ilina walk in behind them and do the same. As the Queen enters, everyone who's sitting rises, and we all give bows. Nina is the exception, of course. 

Elira takes a seat at the head of the table, and a number of people start throwing verbal greetings her way. However, she cuts them all off with a dismissive gesture. 

"I'm glad you all have your manners sharpened, but the formal bows were enough for me. We have quite a lot to discuss today, and it's all rather important, so we should get started. Is there anything urgent that needs to be brought up before that?" (Elira)

Elira looks around the room discerningly. Nobody seems like they're going to say anything, but then Jorah gives a huge smile toward Ilina. 

"Ah, before we begin, I just wanted to say that I have my son Zakariah here with me today. He's about your age, Princess Ilina, so I figured the two of you would enjoy getting to know one another better at some point." (Jorah)

Uhm....is he suggesting....oh shiiit...that's right! Ilina mentioned that Jorah was trying to set her up with his son. You know...some people, me being one, might say that Jorah has no redeeming qualities. But those people would be wrong. I can see now, Jorah is a man that epitomizes boldness. There's nothing that leaves quite as...unique...an impression as trying to hook up your son with your boss's daughter. 

That said, I'd have laughed a lot less when Ilina told me that if I'd known what Jorah's son is actually like. This is a case of 'the apple fell on an entirely different planet from the tree'. Ilina gives Jorah, who is gesturing at Zakariah, an incredulous look. She looks toward Zakariah, seemingly for the first time, and her eyes widen in surprise a bit. There's no way I'm missing this opportunity. 

[I knowww, right? I can guess what you're thinking, too, Ilina. Whatever the hell Jorah did to land this walking artwork's mother as a wife should be meticulously recorded in elven history books. I mean, if you want to call off our engagement and give it a shot, it's not too late. I have it on good authority that you've got an 'in' through the boy's father!] (Mizuki)

I see Ilina purse her lips in disapproval, and I know instinctively that I'm in trouble later. In this very moment, though...I am only deeply entertained. I glance at Elira, expecting her to call Jorah a dumbass or something, but she's just glancing between me and Zakky boy in anticipation. It's like she's engrossed in a guilty pleasure reality show. Alara and Cara are giving me curious looks as well. 

Zakariah quickly steps forward and lowers his head toward Ilina briefly. 

"It is a pleasure to meet you officially, Princess, and you look even lovelier than I've heard. If your personality and wit are your beauty's equal as I suspect, then I'm sure I'd enjoy getting to know you as my father suggested. However, Father, I think this is not what our Queen would classify as 'urgent'. So, perhaps you could avoid such topics for now?" (Zakariah)

Damn...dude has some serious game. Although, I'm probably not the best judge. Ilina quickly rearranges her expression into a polite smile, and she gives a short response. 

"How kind of you, Sir Zakariah. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance." (Ilina)

I see Helena smirk at the exchange, and she's quick to interject. 

"My, Jorah, your son is so impressive. Perhaps you should let him take your place in these meetings from now on. For the experience, of course. We wouldn't mind." (Helena)

Helena's tone has a faint trace of sarcasm to it. It should be clear to anyone with a brain that she's deriding Jorah through praise for his son, but Jorah seems unsure. 

"Err, thank you, Helena. I'll consider it later, perhaps. Zakariah is still quite young, talented though he is." (Jorah)

Elira sighs deeply, probably disappointed that her fun has ended and her work begun. She waves her hands at everyone around the table, gesturing for them to quiet down. 

"Okay, I will assume there are no other truly urgent matters then. First, we are to discuss the developments in Alara's territory. Now, let me clarify that nothing significant has occurred there without my approval. However, I assume that by now everyone here is at least aware of the magic item called a 'train' that Lady Nedonera created, and I understand that it is discussion-worthy. So, if you have any concerns or requests, express them right now. I abhor discord between my nobles, so I demand that they be resolved in this meeting, with my mediation." (Elira)

Elira looks around the room expectantly, and the nobles seem to be eyeing one another cautiously. It's obviously a game of 'who's going to go first'. Naturally, I'm expecting Jorah to rise to the challenge, but even I can be surprised. Darak smiles and bows his head respectfully. 

"My Queen, the Zardo house has no concerns, nor any requests that need royal mediation. Of course, Great Dragon and Lady Alara, we are very interested in official trade agreements. I think Eden would find them mutually beneficial. Regardless, we will surely remain good friends to the Zuki house and the heroes of the demon crisis." (Darak)

Darak sits down in his seat with an inexplicably smug expression, and everyone's gazes snap to him in surprise. Even his reasonable daughter looks shocked, and Tessa quickly clarifies the reason. Her voice is terse, with hints of agitation, but it's also clear she's slightly anxious about something. 

"Darak....that's quite the change in your tune. This morning, I distinctly recall you lecturing the rest of us about how the developments in Eden bring an 'unprecedented disturbance' to the 'economic balance' of our country. You emphasized the importance of a 'unified, empathetic, and peaceful nobility' when voicing our concerns today. What changed?" (Tessa)

Oh? If I have any measure of Darak as a person, that means he learned something since their talk. Something that drastically shifted his views on the best approach. In all likelihood, it's something inconvenient for me. If his daughter hadn't just convincingly reassured me otherwise, I'd think he found out about my abilities. 

"Well, now it seems there's nothing to protest, since our Queen approved everything in accordance with our laws. Naturally, it's concerning if there are unfair economic advantages for Lady Alara's territory, from the train for example. However, that item was a generous gift from Lady Nedonera, not royal favoritism. We can make heartfelt requests for Lady Nedonera to broaden that generosity to our territories, but she is not beholden to our demands." (Darak)

Wow, Darak....a bit heavy-handed man. He's also very clearly trying to preemptively address the other nobles' possible complaints in a way that mirrors what we'd likely argue in defense. In other words, he's trying to make it seem like he's on our side through circumstantially shared principles, not some implied quid pro quo. I wonder if he'd be good at chess....I should bring him a board when Percivil finishes with them. 

I sense satisfaction from Nina at the ingratiating response, but Helena snorts at Darak's reply. 

"Sounds like a lot of flowery nonsense, Darak. You obviously learned something important recently, but I know better than to expect you'll tell us. So, I'll just come right out with it and save us all some time. Great Dragon, are you willing to teach us how these trains are made, or build them for nobles other than Alara? I'm sure we're interested in other strange things I've heard about in Eden, but the train is the most important." (Helena)

All eyes in the room turn to Nina expectantly. At this point, I'm assuming that Nina's about to hand me the mic, so to speak. However...

"Fufufu...I always appreciate your directness, Helena. I prefer this as well, so I will not be coy. I have no inclination to make trains for the rest of you. After all, can any of you give me a single reason why I should?" (Nina)

I have to suppress any signs of surprise on my face. Why is she being so confrontational? Before I get a chance to think on it too long, a very confused Jorah stutters out a response. He doesn't even seem mad, just genuinely surprised. 

"G-Great Dragon, I don't understand? Would you not simply do so as a friend to the Elven Kingdom?" (Jorah)

I sense irritation from Nina, and my anxiety begins to rise. Apparently, it shows on her face, which I can't see from my vantage point behind her, because all the other nobles start to look nervous. Even Elira isn't completely unfazed. 

[Uhm...Nina? Why are y-] (Mizuki)

Nina ignores my thought message. 

"Fufufu...should I feel compelled to strive continuously for your people's approval, elf? Bringing your Princess and your enslaved people back here safely, overlooking your other Princess's attempted murder of Mizuki, defeating Veyron for you, resolving your misunderstanding with the demons, and blessing your people with even a single magic item as profound as a train – that is insufficient for the elves' 'friendship', hmm? Furthermore, what have my supposed 'friends' the elves done? Give my party the minimum privilege to be in your presence, then act like it is more than they deserve. All the while, you belittle my most trusted subordinate – the one who advocates for me to assist you. Is the irony of treating him like some creature unworthy of trust entirely lost on your kind, I wonder?" (Nina)

Most people, including Elira, go pale. Everyone seems frozen in shock at the retort from Nina. I'm not even remotely an exception. What the hell was that!? Why is she being so aggressive!? Yeah, Jorah's an idiot, and I sensed that she was annoyed, but...this response seems wholly disproportionate. As my mind is still reeling, and I'm deciding if I should step in, I notice one calm face in the room step forward – Ilina. 

She smiles at Nina and gives a small curtsy. 

"Lady Nedonera, what Lord Jorah implied was, of course, completely out of line. I will personally reprimand him later. In the meantime, al-" (Ilina)

"Princess Ilina!? I'm quite certain that I don't know what you presu-" (Jorah)

In an instant, Ilina's gaze snaps to Jorah with an expression so icy that even I'm terrified. Not even when I irritate her have I seen her face look so...ominous. At the same time, an intense pressure fills the room, as though the pull of the planet itself has doubled. Ilina's gravity magic physically cuts off further speech by Jorah, and there are a few squeals of surprise around the room as people endure the extra strain.

As the spell remains in effect, Ilina begins to speak to Jorah in a menacing tone that sends shivers down my spine. She's so forceful, so merciless, I can't even recognize her as the woman I know. 

"Jorah Abel...listen to my words and remember them. The other nobles as well. You may be under the lingering impression that I'm some weak child, admiring you with starry eyes and accepting of your admonishment. If so, dispel such thoughts. I value your wisdom and experience, and will use it as I see fit. But...I am your Princess and future Queen. That means that, when I speak, you listen. Do not ever so flippantly interrupt me again. Is...that...clear?" (Ilina)

Ilina releases the gravity spell, and there is an audible breath of relief from Jorah. At first he seems bewildered by how he was treated, but one more look at Ilina's face, and the situation seems to sink in. 

"Y-Yes, Princess Ilina. Please forgive me, that was thoughtless and disrespectful." (Jorah)

Ilina's cold gaze lingers on Jorah for a moment longer, as if testing his sincerity, then her whole demeanor changes. Suddenly, she's giving him a polite smile, and exuding her usual calm aura. 

"Good – you're forgiven. I will be counting on you and your house in the future, so let's endeavor to avoid these misunderstandings. Now then..." (Ilina)

Ilina returns her gaze to Nina, who is just watching the events patiently. Glancing around the room, most of the nobles are still stunned speechless by the whiplash that is Ilina. I can't blame them...I'm confused, too. I've never seen Ilina act like that around other people. Honestly, I'm expecting Elira to intervene somehow after her daughter's semi-violent outburst, but she's just watching Ilina carefully...curiously, even. 

"Lady Nedonera. As I was saying, allow me to apologize on behalf of the elves for any discourteous behavior. I would like to think that I, at the very least, have earned your party's trust, and shown myself to be a friend. As such, I implore you to not condemn the elves over one noble's thoughtless comments. Could we perhaps continue the prior discussion in good faith? After all, your generosity is of immeasurable benefit to my people, so I would be a poor Princess if I did not at least ask this of you...greedy though it may be." (Ilina)

Nina purses her lips thoughtfully, as though thinking over Ilina's request. However, I can sense amusement from her. What the hell is going on...with both of them? Nina's acting unusually volatile, and Ilina's abandoning her normal calm and negotiating demeanor. She just quieted Jorah by near-force, but is now pulling some kind of 'trust me bro' appeal to Nina. 

Nina lets out a deep sigh, as though she's exasperated. But again, her emotions don't match. Then it hits me...is this some kind of theatrical arrangement between Nina and Ilina? Some part of Ilina's plan I didn't know about?

"Very well, Princess Ilina. I will forget about this digression for the sole reason that it's a request from you. " (Nina)

Ilina smiles sweetly and gives a light nod to Nina. 

"Thank you, Lady Nedonera, I am deeply grateful for your favor." (Ilina)

Ilina turns on her heel and returns to her mother's side. Elira gives Ilina an inquiring stare. 

"I apologize for not consulting you before intervening, my Queen. The situation seemed rather dire, though, so I thought it best not to hesitate." (Ilina)

"I admit, I was rather surprised by your...forceful...attitude. However..." (Elira)

Elira gives a quick disapproving glare to Jorah, who silently glowers under it. 

"...to say nothing of his tactless attitude towards Lady Nedonera, interrupting his First Princess was unacceptable. I'm glad to see that you are finally enforcing appropriate expectations for others in your role as heir, and it is clear that this discussion has only been salvaged by the goodwill you have with Lady Nedonera. So, you have my forgiveness for the outburst, and my thanks. Now then..." (Elira)

Elira turns to face Nina with a grateful smile. 

"Great Dragon, please accept my apologies as Queen as well. I hope you believe me when I say – I agree that your kindness towards our people has not been meet with the proper gratitude. As for the nobles..." (Elira)

Elira stand up from her chair and scans the faces of all the nobles, resting especially long on Jorah.

"I'll remind you that our people are not entitled to Lady Nedonera's assistance. I recall a recent meeting where granting her party citizenship was proposed, and many of you balked. It seems to be those same nobles who now act like she has an obligation to help us, as though she were my subject. This discussion is an opportunity for you to voice concerns and make requests, but do not complain about a situation you advocated for. That is all." (Elira)

After one more piercing glare to all of the nobles, Elira leans back in her chair with a finality that signals the meeting can resume. The atmosphere in the room is clearly tense, and the nobles are once again glancing between one another hesitantly. If I had to guess, Nina's little outburst has raised the stakes...they're no longer willing to carelessly press her about trains or anything else without a clear reason. While they're silent, I have my own questions. 

[Nina...what was all that? You were outwardly hostile with them, and so was Ilina. It seemed kind of...performative...so I'm assuming this is part of the plan. But are you both sure about this? I don't want to alienate the nobles or the elves at large in the process. Even Elira seemed surprised...] (Mizuki)

I sense hesitation from Nina, then sympathy. 

[You can trust us to do as Ilina promised, Mizuki...please do so.] (Nina)

So...that's more or less confirmation. Ilina thinks that there's something to be gained from Nina nearly going off the rails, and her being so heavy-handed with Jorah. What, though? I suppose that I did tell Ilina she could be more commanding, and it's true that the elves value a strong leader. I guess that little demonstration also sent a clear message that, among the elves, Ilina is the one Nina is most deferential towards. 

Still, what's the point in demonstrating that? If I'm just going to be revealing that I'm in charge once we discuss Belmod, then why emphasize her rapport with Nina? Those parts don't make any sense to me. Unfortunately, any further thoughts are interrupted by a sudden chuckle...

"Fufufu...well, I for one won't be risking our Princess's ire from now on. Strange to think you all bemoaned how weak she was for most of her life. Now, though...if that strange pressure we felt had grown much stronger, everyone here except the physical enhancers would have been completely immobilized. I've never heard of such a spell, and you used no incantation. Princess Ilina, I don't suppose you'd grace us with an explanation of that terrifying display?" (Helena)

Ilina smiles politely and shakes her head. 

"No, Lady Helena. That should not be the focus of discussion right now. I suggest that you all finish with the discussion topic that our Queen has decreed for this first phase of the meeting." (Ilina)

Helena looks suspicious, and disappointed, but not surprised. Tessa wastes no time. 

"Ehem...very well. We will, of course, do as our Princess and Queen command. Great Dragon, perhaps it would be prudent of us to ask why you have been so...generous...with Alara in the first place. As you said, she did try to kill your servant, Mizuki. So, why give her, and only her, something as remarkable as the train?" (Tessa)

Nina directs an annoyed gaze toward Tessa, and I feel my apprehension start to rise again.

"As I have told you repeatedly now, Mizuki advocates for your people. He convinced me that we should assist Alara. After her descent to nobility, he admired Alara's unnecessarily supportive attitude towards us, especially after our role in her transition. So, in recognition of her character, and as a gesture of goodwill, he thought that we should aid her development of Eden. That included the train, which he felt she could be entrusted with." (Nina)

I see Tessa's face stiffen, and she briefly cuts me a displeased look. I'm guessing she's once again upset by Nina's implication that I'm swaying an Elder Dragon so much. Honestly, I'm a little less worried now, since they'll be learning the truth soon. Still, anything that breeds fear or hostility in the nobles isn't good. 

I watch Tessa closely, waiting to see how she'll respond. To my surprise, however, Darak interjects before she can. He's wearing a smile that doesn't quite match the tone of the meeting. 

"I see, Great Dragon. So, you're saying that we should actually be directing our gratitude and our requests toward Mizuki, not you?" (Darak)

Crap...that's just setting me up as an antagonist even more. Helana smirks at Darak, but her eyes are suspicious. 

"Not like you to state the obvious, Darak. Are you just trying to make Lady Nedonera's point clearer for the less perceptive at the table? Or something else, perhaps?" (Helena)

Her, too!? Before Darak can respond, Tessa interjects with a terse tone. 

"Darak, Helena, I think you must have misunderstood. I'm sure Lady Nedonera wasn't implying that we should be directly praising Mizuki – a mere subordinate, though a favored one – for what were ultimately the actions of his master. Great Dragon, if Miss Alto had made the same justification and suggestion as Mizuki, would you not have made the same decision?" (Tessa)

Tessa watches Nina's face expectantly, as though she believes what she's saying, but also fears to hear otherwise. I already know how Nina really feels, though, and that makes me nervous about how she'll respond. To make matters worse, I can sense anger starting to mix with Nina's annoyance.

I consider warning Nina to not be combative, but....I glance at Ilina, who seems calm. I am supposed to be trusting them. Before I can decide whether to intervene, however, Nina gives a vicious smile to Tessa. 

"No, Darak and Helena are correct...you should be thanking Mizuki. I would not have assisted your people at all without him. In fact, if you want trains of your own, then convince Mizuki you deserve them. Plead your case to him." (Nina)

I immediately feel all the eyes in the room turn to me. Tessa's face goes from shocked, to irritated, to troubled, following the declaration. If Nina thinks this little stunt is going to make them respect me more...I have my doubts. 

Jorah is wearing a frustrated and conflicted expression, obviously trying to decide how to interact with his new negotiation partner. Tessa now looks resigned – probably not expecting much. Cara just seems curious, naturally. Meanwhile, Helena looks as calculating as normal, and Darak looks...I swear he looks happy with the news.

After a moment, Helena seems to think of something and looks at me seriously. 

"Mizuki...we're all fixated on the train that's already here, and racking our brains about how to get our own. But Lady Nedonera didn't say that no more trains will be built. So, I have to wonder...currently, how many trains are you planning to build, and where? Also, what about other 'gifts' from Lady Nedonera? The trains are the most significant, but they're not the only strange items I've heard about showing up in Eden." (Helena)

Jeez. Leave it to Helena to ask the most incendiary question possible at a time like this. Well...I can't lie to them. Not about something like this, and not today. I give her a polite nod in return. 

"Your inference is correct, Lady Helena. My Lady's support for Lady Alara is ongoing. In terms of trains, there are already three that have been built, and you can ask Lady Alara about their specifics. There are no definite plans to build more. As for any other past or planned support, please direct those questions to Lady Alara as well. I am not intimately familiar with all the details of her territory." (Mizuki)

Thankfully, Elira is aware of all three trains. We needed her permission for the Wellick and Avalon systems. But since the train to the coast is entirely within Alara's territory, and she is allowed full control over internal roads, it wasn't necessary to 'report' the western train system. Still, Elira learned about it, and the intended port city, when we had our beach vacation.

She seemed generally excited about the whole arrangement, and asked us to keep her updated. Apparently, she is thrilled about the idea of being able to get fresh fish delivered to the royal capital by train. It's normally very difficult to transport them from the coast without significant spoilage. Alas, I digress. 

Unlike Elira, the rest of the nobles are shocked by the mention that three trains already exist. Which is fair. Apparently even Helena, who asked the question, wasn't prepared for the answer.

"Alara...three!? Why!? Where!? I think it's high time we had a thorough discussion of exactly what absurd developments have occurred in Eden since we last saw one another. Most of us have been stuck traveling for the majority of that time, barely scraping together intelligence reports in the meantime." (Helena)

There's a round of assent from Jorah, Tessa, and even Darak. Alara looks like she's been expecting attention like this for a while, and she merely nods. 

"Certainly, I have no issue with updating everyone on the situation in my territory. After all, while items like the trains are not something I can give you, I still want to foster trade with the other territories. Regarding my short time as a noble..." (Alara)

Alara proceeds to explain...well, basically everything that's available in Eden, as well as her future plans. She mentions our house on the mountain, just...not that it's an old mansion that was teleported there. She also explains Percivil and the wolf-kin, but says that Nina transported them directly to Eden with Elira's permission.

The only thing she wholly leaves out are the MMCs, and we already warned Cara and Alyse on the train here not to mention them. Ilina was supposed to do the same with the royals. 

There are a number of surprised squeals throughout Alara's summary, and the beginnings of protest or interruption, but Elira shuts them all down until Alara finishes speaking. Once everyone is caught up, the questions start flooding in. Honestly, it's quite funny to see which of the absurd revelations are most concerning to each noble. 

"Lady Alara, you're living with a human!?" (Jorah)

"You're telling me that you got them to learn...the wolf-kin...and work in construction? Under an elf's command? Hundreds of them!? Also, you convinced a dwarf to do all the crafting and enchanting work for your city!?" (Helena)

"What do you mean you're building an advanced school and it will be free!? And where will you get the books for this public library!?" (Tessa)

"When you all arrived together, I suspected there was a train planned to connect your territory with Cara's. It's already done though, huh?" (Darak)

If you ask me, Darak's response is by far the most interesting. Not only does it reveal that I was right about him deducing something significant, but he also seems completely at ease. Why though? Does he think that Cara getting a train means that others will? He's sorely mistaken, if so. 

Alara looks at each of the nobles and sighs. 

"It sounds like most of the questions directed at me are just to confirm things I've already told you, so...yes. They're all true." (Alara)

I have to bite my lip to keep from laughing at Alara's deadpan remark toward the other nobles. While the others are all staring at Alara vacantly, Darak turns his attention to me after a brief glance towards Cara. 

"So, Mizuki, what exactly does one have to do to earn a train of their own like Cara?" (Darak)

Hearing Darak's question, all the other nobles turn to listen in, their own questions forgotten. Cara takes note and sighs. Well, I guess we're hitting the end credits on this line of questioning. No point in beating around the bush. 

"Sorry, Lord Darak, but I'll be frank – that's simply not going to happen." (Mizuki)

The room goes quiet, and I see genuine confusion flash across Darak's face. Ah, so he really did think 'if Cara, why not me?'.

Sorry, Darak, but that's just how it is. If I was considering it before, hearing about enchantment copying from Percivil earlier crushed the idea. I can count on my fingers the number of elves I trust at all, and most of those I still don't trust enough to make sure a train isn't abused how I fear.

It's not just a question of intent, it's competency and control. For example...Darak. With some lie-detecting from Nina, I trust that he'd genuinely put in the effort to never try and study, copy, or otherwise abuse a train under his control. However, could he really guarantee that nobody would do so? Not even Vena? If so, for how long? Vena will take his place eventually. 

Even with Alara herself, I only 'trust' her to do so because of all the conditions I put in place, and because we live in Eden. There's also Alto, an elf that Alara and I trust, who is equipped and welcomed to address any train-related problems near-unilaterally even if I can't do so myself. 

After a moment with a thoughtful expression on his face, Darak sighs, and I'm snapped back to reality.

"I'll admit, Mizuki, you've surprised me more than usual. You are hardly ever so blunt with rebuttals. More importantly, I'm finding it hard to understand your decision. Not advocating for your Lady to make trains for Tessa and Jorah, or even Helena...that's understandable. However, Cara and I have been in complete agreement on our interactions with you and your Lady. So, I'm confused what the diff-" (Darak)

Darak trails off suddenly, and realization seems to dawn on his face. He chuckles dryly and nods. 

"Ah, of course...I'm not very familiar with how the train works, just what it can do, so I didn't realize at first. Cara wasn't given a train, was she? Not really." (Darak)

Oh, I guess he's going to answer his own question, about why we'd 'give' Cara a train but flatly refuse him. Several other nobles look confused, but Cara takes the initiative to answer their unasked question. She gives a sympathetic smile to Darak. 

"You're correct, Darak. Though, I do think I've worked a bit harder than you to earn their trust and friendship. No offense. Still, I didn't ask Lady Nedonera or Mizuki to build me my own train, from say, Wellick to Avalon. I asked Alara to facilitate trade and travel between our neighboring territories, and she was given a third train. I have zero control over the train itself. Even so, I don't think the train would have been built into my territory if I was not on good terms with Lady Nedonera's party." (Cara)

As the other nobles slowly realize the implications of that statement, I see frustrated or even angry expressions start to pop up around the table. Helena Izthil gives me an annoyed expression. 

"So, to clarify, Mizuki...the answer is no? If us getting trains in our own territories is left up to you by your Lady, which it clearly is, then your answer is no? And there's nothing we can do to change your mind?" (Helena)

Christ, she's not mincing any words. I see Darak, Tessa, and Jorah staring at me intently, while Alyse, Cara, and Elira just look curious about my answer. I see Ilina...it's subtle, but I think she's smiling. However, her expression seems neutral almost as soon as I look at her, so I'm not sure. Regardless, there's no delaying this answer, or the frustrations it will bring. I take a deep breath. 

"I am sorry Lady Helena, but that's correct. That also goes for any of the special magic-based items provided by my Lady that you may have heard about in Eden." (Mizuki)

Helena purses her lips in disapproval, and a tense silence falls over the table for a few moments. Eventually, after scowling at me thoughtfully for a while, Tessa turns to Elira expectantly.

"Queen Elira, are you not at all concerned by this inequity? Not just the trains, but Eden's other remarkable items and attractions. The city is already so popular that, when I tried to visit it on the last train yesterday, all the inn rooms in the city were full. I don't think it's unreasonable to say that most elves will preferentially flock to Avalon, Wellick, or Alara's territory to more easily experience these remarkable things. Which, are being hoarded by one noble." (Tessa)

I don't necessarily disagree with her assessment of the situation, but that remark about Alara hoarding everything was childish. Elira gives Tessa a look that's almost as bewildered as it is disapproving. 

"What exactly would you have me do, Tessa? While I would love to see these wondrous items spread across the kingdom, I fail to see how I am supposed to facilitate that? I am certainly not going to demand such a thing of Lady Nedonera. I also cannot simply erase the items already in existence. Even if I could, I'm not sure it would be right to deprive our people merely to avoid one noble becoming wealthier or more popular. From what I understand, Alara has even made the train so cheap that commoners can use it regularly." (Elira)

Tessa doesn't bat an eye. 

"Then at least order the study and replication of the items like the trains. I can pull the finest elven minds in the world from the Academy and have them determine what spells and metals the train is made of. It will take time, but we are a patient and capable race. I'm sure we can make trains of our own." (Tessa)

There it is. Exactly what I knew they'd be inclined to do. Truthfully, if they're just repeatedly hitting the train's buttons and watching what it does, then trying to match that behavior to known spells, that's not going to get them anywhere. My bigger concern is what happens when that doesn't work...will they begin operating scientifically? Questioning everything?

That's the real danger. I've given them a goal, and the impression that it's attainable. Until that goal is reached through other means, or they are wholly convinced that it is unattainable for them, they won't stop tinkering, observing, and theorizing. I have to explain this away within their existing framework, so that they think they understand how the train works, but now consider it inimitable. 

As I'm mulling over how to do that, I glance at Elira, expecting her to be looking to me for guidance. However, she's shaking her head at Tessa. 

"I have already asked Mizuki if they would explain how we could make trains of our own. He seemed rather confident that, even if we knew more about the metals and spells, it would not be possible for us to replicate the train system without Lady Nedonera." (Elira)

Tessa cuts an annoyed glance towards me. 

"With all due respect to Mizuki, and to you my Queen, I don't think a teenage human with zero ability to use magic has more of a grasp on magic principles than our entire race. Perhaps he truly believes what he said, but that does not make it so." (Tessa)

Damn...that was scalding. Also, I don't think she actually intended any respect towards me. I glance at Elira, and I see that she's frustrated. She's wearing a conflicted expression as well. That's likely because she knows damn well that I know what I'm talking about, but has no way to convince Tessa of that without spilling the beans about me. I'll need to step in shortly. 

Shockingly, I see Alto step forward to my left without warning, and she fixes her gaze on Tessa. In return, Tessa stares back in surprise. I'm immediately nervous because, while most people would think that Alto has a neutral expression right now, I can tell...she's pissed. 

"With all due respect to you, Lady Tessa, you're actually the one that is ignorant on the subject, not Mizuki. I say so as an elf who was recruited to your Academy as a scholarship student specializing in magic, studied under the very minds you're probably referencing, and then finished at the top of her class. Would you like me to enlighten you as to why you're ignorant?" (Alto)

Shit, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit! All the politeness drops from Tessa's face, and she stares back at an unfazed Alto. A look of shock makes the rounds on everyone else's faces. That is, everyone except for Alyse, who is wearing a stupid grin. 

[Hey, uhm, Alto? Do you really th-] (Mizuki)

Alas, it's too late. Tessa spits back a response, with a tone so venomous that I realize she's actually been relatively polite with me.

"I'd be delighted to hear your thoughts, commoner, and you can make sure to mind your tone as you give them." (Tessa)

Immune to any sense of when a situation is in need of diffusion, not escalation, Nina interjects with a grin on her face. 

"Oh, you must not remember, elf, that Alto is your equal now. Your own Queen decreed so, yes? All members of my party are to be treated as nobles when in your country lawfully. So, if Alto is calling you Lady Tessa, then I expect you to call her Lady Alto. I will not overlook a repeat of the disrespect you just showed her." (Nina)

For the faintest moment, Tessa looks shocked. Then, she only grits her teeth with rage. Alto just watches Tessa expectantly with a small smile on her face. What the hell is wrong with these two today!? I expect this shit from Nina, but not you Alto! 

After several more moments of clenching her jaw, Tessa responds tersely. 

"Tch...it must have slipped my mind, Great Dragon. As I said, why don't you tell me your thoughts, Lady Alto." (Tessa)

I'm sure the shock is clear on my face....she actually did it!? Alto smiles sweetly without missing a beat. 

"Certainly. To start, can you tell me what you know of Elder Dragons' magical abilities? If Lady Nedonera doesn't mind me discussing her like this." (Alto)

"Fufufu...no, go ahead, Alto. This shall be quite entertaining!" (Nina)

Tessa seems agitated by Alto's love of the Socratic method, but I notice Helena perk up for the first time in the meeting. The others at the table seem interested as well, but she really stands out. Come to think of it, she was pretty gung-ho about seeing that lie detector spell from Nina a while back. Helena takes the opportunity to interject. 

"Oh ho, maybe I'm not so upset about the trains after all. From what we understand, the Elder Dragons do not age, have incalculable magic power, and have one elemental affinity. The spells they use are mostly unknown by other races, and do not require incantations. Of course, they are also physically strong. Still, Lady Nedonera recently revealed to us that they can take human form and use non-elemental magic. So, it's clear that there's a lot we don't know." (Helena)

Got it...Helena is to Elder Dragons, what Alto is to flight spells. Alto just nods at her approvingly. I sense immense satisfaction from Nina, and I notice her watching the whole conversation with an amused grin. She's obviously loving her time as an academic exercise. 

"Correct. For example, why can they take human form? Why are Elder Dragons so much more adept at incantation-less magic than the other races? Why are their spells unknown to us?" (Alto)

Helena nods impatiently, but Tessa beats her to the punch with some sarcasm. 

"Oh, and you're going to answer these great mysteries?" (Tessa)

Alto just smirks in response, which seems to irritate Tessa. 

"Yes, I have learned much in my time with Lady Nedonera. The answer to those questions is related to another...what do you know of the gods and their magic?" (Alto)

Wait, is she seriously about to give the Elder Dragons whole origin story? I can't think of any serious downsides to that, but...telling these people anything about gods makes me nervous. Although, Azazel just straight up introduced himself to everyone he brought here, so I guess it's fine. I just hope Alto knows what she's doing. 

"The gods? We know of Nedilir, from our home world, and Azazel, who brought us here, and that the other races of Azura probably had gods on their home worlds. What we know about gods' abilities is as minimal as it is incredible. They can revive the dead, move us between planets, and create objects from nothing. We speculate that they created all the races, and gave us magic abilities. Regardless, such feats would be more appropriately called divine power, not magic power. Their abilities seem so fundamentally different from the 'magic' we know." (Helena)

Alto breaks out in a huge smile. 

"Exactly, Lady Helena! The gods do not have magic, they have divine power. In essence, their abilities are not like ours. They are distinct. Unattainable." (Alto)

I finally understand where Alto is going with this...

[Alto...you're a genius. Thank you. Sincerely, I was wondering how we were going to deter them from messing with the trains.] (Mizuki)

I see Alto smile smugly at my thought message. At the same time, realization seems to dawn on some of the faces in the room. This time, Elira is the one to respond. 

"Alto! Are you implying that the Elder Dragons have the same power as the gods!? That's the reason why their abilities seem so different from ours?" (Elira)

For those that hadn't reached that conclusion on their own yet, Elira's outburst is an eye-widening revelation. Alto just nods. 

"Yes, at least a very similar power. Essentially, the Elder Dragons were created by a god on their home planet. However, they weren't created from nothing. The god altered humans on the planet into Elder Dragons. In the process, they were blessed with abilities that defy the limitations of our magic. For example, the ability to will their thoughts into others' minds, or to manipulate earth in any way they want, all without incantations." (Alto)

No sooner than Alto finishes speaking, does Dargo speak out in disbelief. 

"Lady Nedonera....truly!? Is everything Al-....err, Lady Alto says true? Even the part about the Elder Dragons being created from humans by the gods!?" (Dargo)

All eyes turn to Nina in anticipation, as though they won't believe it until she says it herself. 

"Fufufu...oh yes, that's all correct. Alto did quite well explaining. That is also the reason that I can take on this human form....it was the original form of my ancestors." (Nina)

The room falls completely silent as everyone takes in that surprising information. Tessa turns to Alto with an immensely irritated expression on her face. 

"So, Lady Alto, the point you're trying to make..." (Tessa)

Alto nods. 

"My point, Lady Tessa, is that this is why you will never replicate the trains. It uses abilities that are fundamentally outside of the bounds of elven magic. Of course, that may not be enough to convince you to leave the trains alone. So, let me ask you this as well – why do you think that Mizuki doesn't want any of you to have trains in the first place?" (Alto)

Wait, what is she doing? I turn towards Alto nervously, and she gives me a nod that I think is meant to be reassuring, like, 'trust me'. The nonverbal exchange is seen by the others in the room, particularly my apprehension, and they seem to realize that Alto is about to reveal something I'm nervous about. Naturally, Tessa leans forward, suddenly interested. 

"Well, naturally because Jorah and I do not like or trust him, and would prefer him out of the country. He resents this, and is obviously withholding something he considers valuable to make a point that we should play nice, like Alara and Cara. Helena is more neutral toward him, but the same wisdom applies. Darak...well, that decision I'm genuinely confused about, but I assume it is to make his petty withholding of the trains less obvious." (Tessa)

I can feel my mouth drop open in surprise. Not because I'm surprised that Tessa thinks that...it's pretty predictable. Rather, I can't believe she just admitted it so casually. Alto just shakes her head. 

"No, not even close. To tell you the truth, Mizuki couldn't care less about your personal feelings for him. I'm sure your blinding prejudice towards humans will make it hard for you to accept, but would you like to know the real reason you're not getting any trains?" (Alto)

I look toward Alto again nervously. The real reason is Azazel's rules; I don't want to violate them and go on a killing spree. But....there's no way she'd say that.....right? If she told them that right now, I'd have to kill everyone in here except her, Ilina, and Nina. But what lie is she going to tell, and what purpose could this possibly serve? We're supposed to be building trust with these people. 

Tessa raises her eyebrows skeptically, and everyone else in the room turns to look at me suspiciously. Like I'm hiding some sinister secret from them. Although, I guess I am. 

"Oh? Mizuki seems nervous at the very least, so obviously there is something that he's hiding. Let's hear it, then." (Tessa)

Fuck...she's right. I do my best to make my expression neutral, and I turn towards Alto. She knows Ilina's plan, just like I do. I trust Alto. I trust Ilina. There's no way Alto would tell them the truth. I fix my gaze on Alto, and watch as she scans the faces of those in the room. 

"The real reason Mizuki won't give the rest of you trains of your own is...he doesn't want any innocent elves to die." (Alto)