A Knight's Lilies

“Ceasefire Over Abenstadt?

Early in the morning of the 14th of Tessus. The Grand Duchy of Abenstadt and the Imperial Traxian Empire have announced a three day ceasefire as humanitarian efforts occurred on both sides of the front. Rumors have also swirled of potential demonic interference within the conflict and the Astralian church has already signaled a willingness to investigate these rumors within the timeframe allotted to them. Under the terms specified by the Bernou Treaty, the Imperial 18th Legion is to assist…”

- Trax Imperialis, Global Affairs Section, “Second Page Story”

“Have you heard about the Chamber saying they’ll pardon the Braveskulls? After what they did?”

“The ones who harassed womenfolk and kidnapped them got released.”

“The council has allowed the Braveskulls to roam free. Can you believe it?”

By the end of the fifth day, Sophie’s lips were already curled in distaste at the mere thought of making more remarks of that nature. Unable or unwilling to force herself to try and goad others anymore for a reaction. It reminded her too much of rumor mongering done against her back at the estate by the other maids, or that which had seen Eva temporarily kicked out of Carrador. Though that was arguably because the King of Melton made his damned speech about me.

Still, Sophie didn’t know how she wanted to proceed. She agreed with Lucinia, but that didn’t mean she necessarily wanted to cause chaos or trouble. Arteria deserved to know the truth, but it also needs peace in the face of the coming storm. The Traxians are already besieging Abenstadt, if this gives Arteria a chance, what right do I have to try and take it away? But then again, what justice would there be for the countless victims if we let it stand?

At least Ary and Sigrid seemed to be taking things well enough. Hanabi had evidently explained things to them and they both agreed with the assessment that being safe was perhaps more important. Though Sophie got the feeling that she wasn’t quite seeing the full picture given the glances occasionally being traded between the three of them. The same type that I used to share with Eva whenever we planned to play a prank or whenever she wanted to sneak me out of the estate to see the city. They’re also planning something, but what?

It irked her to no avail despite having reunited with Mila, Eva, and gained many more allies and friends. She was left with far more uncertainty and questions than before.

Classes, at least, passed by mercifully fast. She had gotten a better grasp of civics and mathematics, though Ary still had to consistently help her with the subject. Sophie blushed as she recalled how much the girl would take advantage of ‘studying’ together to continually find new ways to deepen their bond. Strategy and logistics alongside her martial classes had come to her easy enough. Allowing her to breeze through as her mind focused on other things. Though, both proved less useful than her other classes. With strategy being a realm too broad for her to currently find a use for, and the martial program merely continuing to reinforce combat drills that had proven inadequate more than once in her line of work. They were useful enough as foundational ideas, or so she hoped.

Ary nuzzled her neck and let out a cute little yawn. The girl’s scrunched up face brought much needed joy back to Sophie’s dour thoughts. Sophie carefully reached up to ruffle Ary’s hair and gave her head a small scratch, the girl letting out a soft purr in response. Delighted, Sophie snuck in a kiss atop the redhead’s forehead and leaned upon the fluffy bed that smelled of flowers and vanilla. It felt nice.

The burdens she bore were great and only seemed to grow. Yet moments like these warmed her soul. Reminded her that she had a grander purpose than simply righting wrongs. That she wanted people like Ary to see and experience a better world. It was a lofty ambition, one that seemed absurd even in her eyes. But it was hers.

A slight chill brushed past her. The weather had begun to turn once more. Spring had begun turning to summer but still, the promised heat continued to elude Arteria. It was an ill omen, but then again, for her, nothing had ever really appeared as a good omen.

Since the Mistveil till now. So many things keep happening. Ah! The cult! Damned bastards. There hasn’t been any news about them for a while. Just what are they doing? She mused.

Ary let out another soft yawn which prompted Sophie to do the same, once more taking her out of her thoughts. Wrapping her arms around the girl, she gave her an affectionate squeeze and turned to look at where the cold wind had come from. Casting a pleading look at the faerie of the window sill, Yana begrudgingly fluttered over and summoned a few tiny constructs to help shut it fully.

Grateful, Sophie nodded in thanks before giving Ary a gentle push and putting her head onto a pillow.

“Uwwh.” Ary let out a little noise.

Sophie pecked her lips before scooting downwards a little to join the redhead. Pulling the covers over them, she felt Ary sleepily reach over to also wrap her in an embrace. Sharing a tired giggle, the two cuddled and let out contented sighs.

This is good, Sophie smiled to herself, this is great.

With Caeus marking the start of the weekend, the duo found themselves once more meeting with their group of fellow conspirators within their room. Perhaps the only absences were the same that had missed the previous meeting, Hanabi and the newly named Sigrid. Still, Sophie supposed that Hanabi’s decision might very well mirror the groups anyways.

“I suppose this means we’re all at least somewhat committed?” Lucinia questioned the others.

A series of nods replied from across the room. Though out of everyone, only Sophia and Raylani didn’t react. The former not needing any motivation beyond her disdain for the Braveskulls. Whilst the latter merely followed along with whatever Elaria chose to do.

“I guessed that it’d end up being this route. Though I am surprised to see you two returning.” Lucinia derisively motioned to the Calnodel siblings.

“Like we said the other week. We’re here to help our friends.” Maylesa answered resolutely.

The two sides glared at each other, their gazes unwavering. I guess even the siblings can get mad once in a while. Though with how poorly Lucinia hides her dislike of them, I suppose it shouldn’t be much of a surprise.

“Lucy, enough.” Olivia finally chimed in, “You asked them before and they answered the same.”

The princess did not look at her attendant, merely breaking eye contact with Maylesa.

“Fine.” She managed to utter, “What a stubborn crowd.”

She followed up with a quick scoff, though instead of the usual derision, there was instead a sort of sadness that Sophie almost mistook for fear.

“If that’s the case. Then I’ll spare everyone the pleasantries. The situation is this. If we are to plan a protest or even more, we’ll first need to establish what the current public opinion of everything is. We don’t know how willing or even much most Arterians know about this recent law change.” Lucinia looked over the room before settling on Sophie, “I’ve had Sophie try to ask around campus already, what news?”

“Uh… I…” Sophie didn’t expect to be so suddenly called out.

Everyone’s eyes flew towards her, even Ary narrowed her eyes a little. Though the redhead’s suspicion was soon replaced by a soothing pout. Perhaps disappointed at the secrecy, yet still affectionate.

“Ahem. Right. I did ask around, or at least hint about what the Arterian chamber has done. From what I could gather. Most students or at least, those I talked to have expressed their outrage at the decision to pardon the Braveskulls.” Sophie paused to catch her breath, “However, I also didn’t get the sense that anyone was particularly put out or willing to act because of that. At least, not enough to protest within the city or otherwise. In my opinion, that is.”

“Splendid.” Lucinia acknowledged her. The two shared a tense glance, Lucinia reminding Sophie of their agreement. While Sophie felt more and more uncomfortable as doubts crept into her mind over the days.

“Now. I’m sure everyone has questions, so I’ll endeavor to answer most of them with this. Our next step is to build up on your Sophie’s initial excursions. Ask friends, preferably spend the rest of the weekend around the city and ask family or acquaintances. We need information, we need a better picture on what the city actually thinks. Whether or not people even know or care.” Lucinia continued.

“Sounds easy enough.” Elaria huffed.

“Perhaps that is so. But try not to raise any alarms. We don’t need anyone clocking onto the fact that we might just be in the process of starting something. Element of surprise still works best even here. So no ballards in a tavern.” Lucinia scowled.

“Shame.” Elaria grinned but nodded anyway, “Fair enough. I assume that means Raylani and I will try and ask around our haunts?”

“As long as you don’t make a scene, yes.”

“Then we can canvas within the quarters.” Maylesa suggested.

“Indeed, or the museum.” Thalnor cautiously agreed.

Lucinia absently nodded before pausing, “Museum?”

“The museum of Arteria?” The siblings looked confused at the princess’s question.

“Do… do nobles go there?”

The siblings both shrugged, Maylesa opting to answer, “Some, I suppose. Mostly merchants or wealthier citizens. Or people like yourself who are visitors from different realms. Why?”

Lucinia’s eyes seemed to twinkle dangerously, “That’s perfect. If you two can somehow gauge their reaction, we can get a gist of how the upper classes might react.” the princess excitedly exclaimed, “That’d be very important to figure. If we’d get any bigger backers or if this is solely resting on our shoulders. Yes… yes, that’d be great. Do you two think you can do it?”

“What a strange question, of course we can pose questions to others.”

“That’s not-”

“I’ll go with them.” Sophia lazily cut off the princess, “Keep them safe too.”

“We can handle ourselves.” Thalnor protested.

“Mmm. But safer with me around.”

“Fair enough. You three to the museum then” Lucinia quickly regained control before the two sides could continue.

“Fine.”

“Fine.”

The siblings and Sophia replied.

“As for you two…” Lucinia rounded on Sophie and Mila.

The inquisitor had so far just listened, leaning against a wall with her arms crossed. While the others all seemed concerned, they didn’t quite reach the stage of anxiety. In contrast, all this clearly bothered Mila just as it bothered Sophie. Though her trademark scowl and furrowed brows betrayed little of her thoughts.

“We’ll ask around the guild and wherever we end up for commissions this weekend.” Sophie spoke up, realizing that Mila was still deep in thought.

“Good. That’ll allow us to gauge whether the news is that widespread yet. Though I doubt it.”

“What about me?” Ary shot up beside Sophie, bristling with defiance.

Yana sat atop her hair, the fae mostly just bored at being stuck in this gathering.

“Err…” Lucinia froze, turning to Sophie.

Sophie scratched her head. She didn’t want Ary in danger, but she didn’t have the heart to deny the girl’s spirit either. With Hanabi being on the job with us… Her eyes then danced around the room until they landed on the other uncharacteristically quiet member within the room, Eva. That's it!

“Eva.” Sophie called out.

“Sophie?” Eva blinked in surprise, clearly having barely followed along.

Sophie wanted to chuckle, classic.

“Can you help keep Ary and Sigrid safe?” Sophie asked.

“Sigrid?” Right, half this room doesn’t know yet.

“Friend of ours. New to the school, mute. But she’s dear to us.”

Eva shuffled uncomfortably, “Uhh, but today, we have an extracurricular study session at the Grand Library. I don’t know if there’ll be enough time to do much after that.

“No, but that’s exactly it. All we need is a little time.” Sophie insisted.

“We do?” Ary queried.

“That’s right. Eva. I just need you to watch over Ary and her friend for an hour at most. Please.”

“I… I’ll have to… fine.” Eva surrendered, shooting Sophie a small grin.

“But why?” Ary asked.

“You wanted to help, right?”

Ary nodded emphatically.

“Then show Sigirid around, it’ll be loud and confusing. But I think she’ll appreciate it.”

“Okay…? But how would that help?”

“Aside from getting her used to things? There’s a certain dwarf I want you to ask a few questions too.” Sophie smiled.

“A certain… ah! Sir Karzan!”

“That’s right. He’ll probably have something to say about it. Or if possible, ask if he could introduce me to some of his compatriots. They could prove useful in the days to come.”

“Mighty ambitious of you.” Lucinia commented.

“We’ll need all the help we can get.”

‘Hmpf.”

“Worst case scenario, you can see if he has a new edition of ‘Gunmar and Aurelia’.” Sophie chuckled.

“Uhn!” Ary eagerly acknowledged the instructions, much to the dismay of the fae above her who now fluttered in place instead of sitting in its nest.

As the room settled into a more comfortable silence. Sophie could tell that the fact everyone now had an assignment of sorts had calmed some of their nerves. Though Mila still appeared dissatisfied, she was at least nodding along. Small improvements.

“And what about you two, I hope you aren’t just planning on loafing around while we do the heavy lifting.” Eva faced the Traxians.

“Of course not!” Lucinia scoffed, “The gall.”

“So?”

“We’ll… be…”

“We have friends amongst the nobility thanks to Lady Lucy’s attempt at spreading a message of peace the other month.” Olivia swept in to save her princess.

“Right. Including your Princess Samantha and my brother. Though I doubt he’ll be as receptive as we are to this cause.”

“But we will endeavor to try our best.” Olivia added.

“Pfft, sure, sure.” Eva offered a small chuckle.

“Since we’re all set, let’s get to work, people. If you want to change the world there’s nothing to be gained from sitting around.” Lucinia growled.

Lucinia slumped into her chair the moment she returned to her room, a tired sigh escaping her lips much to her attendant’s amusement. She snapped her fingers and pointed at a teapot, her attendant making a sarcastic bow before grabbing it and starting to brew a new pot. Lucinia stretched and grunted, the day had only begun, yet she was exhausted.

“Livy.” She called out.

“Yes, milady?” Olivia mockingly bowed.

“What is on our schedule for today?”

Olivia snorted before arching an eyebrow, “Now, my lady?”

“Yes, now.” Lucinia rolled her eyes.

“Well, originally. Our schedule involved a quick trip to the city in a few hours to purchase the necessary gifts of Lady Alys’s tea party. Now? You have just promised our new allies that you’ll attempt to speak to some of our peers about your new project.” Olivia’s sarcastic tone only served to tire Lucinia even more.

“Livy.”

“I know. Talk to nobles. Buy gifts for Alys.”

“Thank you.”

Lucinia pinched her brow, the daunting rigors of social etiquette ahead made her muscles preemptively sore. I’ll have to bother the Carradorians again, maybe even the kids from Ascar. Stars, that’ll be a hassle. She shifted in her seat, her hand’s digging into the armrests as she mused the path ahead.

She didn’t expect this to be how things turned out. Joining forces with the annoying elf classmate of hers. All for the sake of causing trouble for father’s plans, hah. She snickered to herself, this might not even be the emperor’s idea. Might even be a theatre commander’s initiative. Surely signed off by Imperial high command though. Ugh, what a hassle.

“Lucy, tea is ready. Though hot.” Olivia interrupted her thoughts.

“Thanks.” She grunted.

What bothered her the most was the fact that she had become embroiled in Traxian’s problems once again. Even here, in Arteria where their influence shouldn’t be as strong. Assassins, sabotage, the war. She sighed, and I came here to get away from it all. Absently reaching for some comfort, she grabbed the teacup and tried to take a sip.

“Lucy!”

“Hm-argh, fuck. It’s hot.” Lucinia winced from the pain as she hastily set the cup down.

“I just brewed it!” Olivia let out an exasperated gasp.

“Ahh, it’s fine, dammit.” Lucinia cursed.

“Lucy.” Olivia chided.

Lucinia sunk into her seat a little more, now actively skulking at such an embarrassing display. In her mind, the world seemed dead set against her. So many things seemed to be going wrong at once and she didn’t even know why. While Imperial ambitions never really ended, their mantle as humanity’s protectors meant that they were always busy trying to ensure that their borders against the Adornari elves were secured. It seemed that there was a recent streak of revanchism that had seized the court at large. The campaigns against Carrador and now Abenstadt-Arteria being a prime example.

Peace, a strange yet intriguing concept. Now definitely gone. One that she knew was well beyond her reach, or the empire’s. Yet, in her attempt to simply taste the idea, she was attacked. Just what is the empire planning?