On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

Shaeula sat on her throne, a pensive expression on her face, as she watched the workers scurry about the Spring, slowly constructing the various wooden platforms, walls and walkways she required for her plans to come to fruition. There were kobolds, some of those from Akio’s Territory, but more from the Seelie Court, as well as goblins, and even a few dwarves. To think, I had disparaged the kobolds as mere ‘dirt-grubbing mutts’ and goblins as brutes more suited to the Unseelie. Though I am hardly alone in that. Perhaps it was being noble that caused one to look down on those beneath them with contempt, or maybe…

“Mistress Shaeula…” Hyacinth said softly, since they were out of earshot of others, her other maid, Velna… absent… for good reason, after the events of the morning. “… if yooou are unhappy, I can fetch you a drink, ooor some fruit. I can find your sister, if you wish, or…”

With a slight smile, Shaeula raised her hand, forestalling her. “No, I appreciate it, Hyacinth. But I fear my malaise is not-not so easily remedied. You were there, were you not-not?”

At that Hyacinth nodded, and Shaeula turned her thoughts back to this morning, where she made a painful decision….

********

Hyacinth was giggling to herself, face flushed, as she readied wine and fruit for her, and Shaeula was pleased herself. “Did you enjoy it that much then, Hyacinth? I do confess, I find it quite-quite delightful myself, to share love with Akio. So I do understand…”

“Yes, Hyacinth is very happy, but nooot just because I am closer to Akio now.” Her smile was bright, matching the gleam in her eyes. “I am alsooo close to you, mistress Shaeula. It was fun to dooo things together. Hyacinth never knew!”

At that, Shaeula had to smile. “Yes, it is quite-quite strange. Perhaps it is why I feel very close to Eri and Aiko, Hinata too, for they love-love Akio too. Motoko and Natsumi, they too have fallen for him, as well-well they should. I should like-like to know them better as well. Really, mortals have some curious beliefs. That a person can only love one other, and no-no more.”

“Sooo, Mistress Shaeula loves other men then?” Hyacinth giggled, and she snorted, denying that.

“Well, not-not in the romantic sense, no. Though I suppose I do love my father and brothers, even if they can be quite-quite troublesome. Akio is enough for me. But I do not-not begrudge him other likes, other loves. After all, if I had, there would be no love for me, or for you, would there? Eri would have taken it all-all. It is merely a matter of… grandeur, perhaps?” She had been thinking about this for a while. Ever since she had been forced to reveal that the reason she pushed other women onto Akio was partly through fear, fear that love would one day end, Shaeula had been pondering her innermost desires and wants. “My father has many lovers, because he is a great-great male of dignity and power. It is only natural females would feel the allure of such. After all, what-what do we wish for?”

Hyacinth cocked her head, thinking. “I just wish tooo serve, Akio and the mistresses, you and mistress Eri. It makes me happy, it is what I was booorn to do. But…” she giggled again, flushing, and Shaeula was greatly relieved that most of Hyacinth’s laughter recently had been joyous rather than crazed, though she did slip back on occasion. “… Hyacinth thinks it is very good tooo show Akio affection. Hyacinth loooved it.” she started swaying up and down lewdly, as if mimicking the sex they had shared with Akio recently.

“Enough of that.” Shaeula chastised her, and Hyacinth nodded, giggling, but her keen eyes couldn’t help but notice the drool that was leaking from her maid’s mouth, nor the lewd way she was licking her lips. Thinking to herself that they had created a lusty monster, and looking forward to more fun times ahead, Shaeula continued her train of thought, more to distract herself from what was about to come than anything else. “Well, most females wish for love, I deny it not-not. But they also wish for security, wealth, other females to have fun with and be close to… females wish for many things. And my father can provide them all. Akio too. He may not-not know it yet, but he is a ruler, just as my father is. Females seek out those such as he to bask in their love and protection. And Akio is not-not one to withhold his love, especially from females who are sad, lonely or burdened. I was one such, you as well-well.”

Hyacinth nodded, listening intently, so she continued. “Think. He has pressured the leaders of his country to change their very laws so that he may-may marry us all fairly. What female would fail to be moved-moved by that?”

“I dooo not understand marriage, not really. Brownies seldooom wed, we take our joooy in serving the master and tending the home. But… it doooes not seem so bad. Hyacinth will learn!”

“Yes, well, you feel-feel the warmth he holds in his heart for you and respond.” She sighed, her eyes glowing amber as she inspected the pair of soul-lights that flickered around her, the solidity of them showing they were nearing rebirth, despite their struggles to remain mere shadows. “We all do. Thus we have no-no wish to leave him. Mortals live but a short time, perhaps that is why they wish to cling on so, yet… none who love Akio will be as fleeting fireflies, lost to time-time. They will have to change their mortal mindsets, should they wish eternity by his side. Those you can love-love and trust, knowing they will always be there in your hour of need, that you can laugh, cry and even-even fight with, yet always certain they will remain there beside you ever more, sisters… such is a precious gift they do not-not yet know the value of, being mortal. But they will, as we Fae do. And yet…” her eyes narrowed, glistening with tears that threatened to burst free. “…now that I know-know of love and friendship, it makes betrayal burn all the more fiercely. Fetch my sister. It-it is time.”

Hyacinth had nodded, hurrying out, and Shaeula leaned back on her throne, eyes squeezed shut. Aether was trickling out of her, a constant flow into the soul-lights around her, though there were only a handful remaining, as Akio provided aether too, through their Kin Bonding, and the pair of them had orders of magnitude more aether to spare than when Shaeula first met him and was defeated, those many months ago, as the astral reckoned time. Still, all of those times were precious memories to her now, and there were more to come, an endless future of them. She bit at her lip, emotions running wild. She hoped the future would be endless, but they had many obstacles to solve yet, foes to overcome…

“Ula, what is it, is there danger, is there trouble?” Shaeranna cried, as she rushed in ahead of Hyacinth, who had looked apologetic. Her sister had stayed at the Spring while her father returned to their domain, and along with the Way-Wardens, was making sure the area was secure while it reintegrated into the Seelie Court.

Opening her eyes, Shaeula had shaken her head, denying the danger. “No, sister. It is merely something painful I can not-not bear to do alone.” She had wished Akio was there with her, but that was selfish, for she knew he had many demands on his time as well. Still, it made her sigh self-deprecatingly, as she understood in that moment the wishes of Eri, who had wished for Akio all to herself for the longest time. “I am grateful to have you here, sister. Perhaps I have not-not said that enough.”

Shaeranna paused, her green eyes blinking in surprise, before she grinned wolfishly. “My Ula, you make me so happy, so pleased, saying such. Now, talk to me. What is it you are struggling with?”

As Hyacinth assumed her position, her other maid, Velna had also come running. Shaeula had tried to send her away on an errand, rather than subject her to this, but perhaps by some intuition or instinct she had known this was coming. Her eyes were full of shadows, her expression grim, but even so, she was there. “Princess.” She managed, her voice cracking under the emotional strain.

“Sister. You know of my ability, correct? My gift that saves the spirits of my kin, preventing them from passing, giving hope-hope of rebirth?”

Shaeranna had nodded, proud of her sister. “Indeed it is a gift of great worth, great value. Though with your frail body and inadequate aether, using it was…” she stopped, shrugging. “… that was then. Now you are more than strong, very powerful, and can use it well. I expected no less from my cute little Ula, my pretty Ula. So…” at her questioning gaze, she had nodded.

“You are correct, sister. My traitorous maids, even in death I caught them. And though they did-did struggle against it, their return is imminent.” Behind her, Hyacinth muttered darkly, her hands making squeezing gestures, as if she wished to wring the traitors to bloody ruins, while Velna was whispering to herself, distraught. “In my heart, I still-still must consider them my kin, despite everything. Yet… I can not-not allow them to go unpunished.” Her hands had gripped her throne, the jade blades that were part of her Kamaitachi form gouging the wood. “Sister, I…”

“Say no more, my dear Ula. Your sister knows what to do, what must be done.” She said, proudly. “You did well to rely on me.” She pulled her wicked spear from her back, the greatest work of Master Bjarki, at least until Akio’s Twin Fangs, anyway. “I shall not let them escape, nor flee.”

“Fine.” Shaeula had whispered, concentrating on the bond, the last flickers of aether draining from her. The soul-flames burst into brilliant light, detaching themselves from her, and as the shining fires touched the ground, they resolved themselves into two frightened weaselkin, who promptly threw themselves prostrate on the ground in front of her, babbling over each other as they cried out apologies, requests for mercy and clemency, appeals to their time together, and more, until Shaeranna slammed the butt of her spear into the ground ferociously and called out for silence. Then everything fell quiet.

“Do you dare to be insolent in front of us, daughters of Shaetanao, princesses of the Seelie?” she snapped, furious at the display. “Traitors to my precious sister, despite the noble role you were offered, were given. Be silent. Let my Ula speak!”

The two maids pondered, while Shaeula had considered her words, her heart aching. Still, two maids were gone from her, and she had not asked her father or Shaeraggo what had become of them, though their lights had not returned to her. Slowly, she had opened her mouth, and bitter words had emerged. “Saeca, Mureila. Why did you betray me? No, I suppose you did not-not, Saeca. For you never served me from the start, did you?”

“I… please forgive me!” Saeca cried out. “My family has always been a friend to the foxkin, so when you were-were looking for maids, Duke Vulpatrius approached my father, and-and…”

“I’m not at fault here-here!” Mureila interrupted her. “Saeca and Risha were the ones that started all this-this! I took the payment, I did, but I only encouraged you, princess, I didn’t do anything wrong…”

“Why you rotten little bitch, you were eager-eager for the gold and jewels…” Saeca tore into her colleague. As they squabbled, each blaming the other, and throwing all their ire against the absent Risha, Shaeula had gathered all her strength, and spoke.

“I see. You meant me no harm. Well, when your foolish incitements had me sent to where-where I should surely have died, were it not-not for the miracle of meeting Akio, did you lament? When the Night Parade were brought to my very mansion, when poison was prepared, ready-ready to strike. When Klena was taken…” At those words Velna flinched, and Shaeula subtly held her hand behind her back, and Velna had grasped it, trembling. “Do not-not make me laugh, though this is far from humorous. Sister, what do you think I should do?”

“It is obvious, Ula.” She was glaring at the two maids murderously. “They can not be forgiven, never forgiven. After all, a traitor once is a traitor always. Lies and treachery are poison to trust, destroy faith.”

“I fear so.” As Shaeula said that, the two maids protested, calling upon their past times together, the times Shaeula had seen as good and happy. If it was her before, she might have broken, given in, but now she had new happy times. Velna was squeezing her hand tightly, and she heard Hyacinth whisper her name with sympathy, so, clinging to the now, Shaeula had unleashed her befuddling winds, bathing the two in its full power.

“You will confess all your betrayals, all your plots, and answer any question my sister or father gives you honestly, with no-no lies or omissions.” Shaeula spat, face twisted with pain. “Now go. You are not-not my kin any longer, nor my maids. No, you are but-but strangers.” She turned to Shaeranna then. “Take them to my father. He might-might find out something of value. And then… I do not-not wish to see them again.”

Shaeranna nodded, grabbing the two stunned maids by the scruff of their necks. “Do not worry, my little Ula. You have been brave, been strong. These two… well, they have much to answer for, and much to tell…”

As they were dragged out, Shaeula had watched them go, eyes suddenly dry of tears, her heart hard. Even so, she had trembled a little, her grip on Velna tightening too. “Farewell, Saeca, Mureila. May you find peace one-one day.”

“What will happen to them, princess?” Velna asked, timidly, and she had sighed in answer.

“I do not-not know. My father will have them questioned, I have no-no doubt. We need to know how deep the rot goes. After that…” she shrugged. “… exile, if their crimes are considered light enough, perhaps. Imprisonment. Perhaps even…” she did not wish to finish her sentence, but Velna understood.

“If… if I may be excused, princess?” she asked, tears running from her eyes, soaking her fur, and Shaeula had nodded, releasing her hand.

“Yes, take some time to grieve. As they were my servants, who I thought loyal all-all these years, they were your colleagues and friends. Rest assured, we will get Klena back-back, and Risha will face judgement.” And with these words, Velna curtsied and fled, crying, the emotional strain of seeing her dead friends return, only to have them face summary punishment, too much for her.

“Mistress Shaeula, if yooou need to cry, Hyacinth can look away…” she said tactfully, and Shaeula had laughed, bitterly but with strength.

“No, though I thank you for your consideration. You are quite-quite worthy of your position as head maid now. No, I have no time for tears. We have much to do. And when I cry, I wish-wish it to be in the arms of Akio, letting him spoil me. I can-can hold my grief until then…”

********

Shaeula shook her head to clear out the memories of earlier. I have too much to do today to be feeling down and disheartened. No, I must remain strong. After all, I have… auspicious guests. Two very different ones in fact. One, she was looking forward to meeting, as if all went well, it would firmly cement her claim to the Spring and rank of Duchess. But the other… Duke Formor. How I wish I could squash you like a bug for all the hatred you have shown towards me, the harm to my loyal maid, the attempts on my life, but… It was impossible. Duke Formor and his forces were too important to the Seelie Court, guarding the north from the Unseelie and their own foul giants from occupied Salamandrastrae. Civil war would be a disaster, even now. Still, I demand compensation. Hinata is right. We should get fair worth for what we receive, be it for good or ill.

“Mistress. Prince Aethelathrion and his guests have arrived. Shall I shooow them in?” Hyacinth curtsied perfectly, back to her brownie grace now that there were guests. I see. Well, the first trial is here.

“Indeed. Please do so.” She agreed, her face a mask of noble poise, her doubts hidden within. Hyacinth disappeared for a moment, to return with the noble elven Prince, who was followed by a half-dozen elven females, as well as a cloud of flying faeries, their small stature belying the fierce power coming from them, rainbow energies shrouding them like a thick aura, the one at their head, perhaps only two feet tall, but remarkably powerful, drawing her gaze. With her stunning green hair and eyes, as well as delicate refined features, Estalian, Princess of the elemental Fae, one of the seven surviving royal branches, was quite the sight to see, and Shaeula felt her skin itch from the multiple elements she was radiating. Estalian is a sylph, I recall from my lessons, though I have never met her in person. She was also one of the rare few Fae who have transcended their innate elements, and not once, but twice. The elemental fae are fickle, these will be difficult negotiations.

Still, she said none of this, merely standing politely to welcome them, gracefully bowing in greeting. “Good Prince, we meet again. And you must be Princess Estalian. It is quite an honour to meet the one known as the Greatest of Sylphs, The Triad of Elements.”

Estalian flitted close, her near-transparent wings humming in the air, green sparks floating from them. She looked Shaeula in the eyes, before floating down to sit on the arm of her throne. “Well, this is quite the surprise. When I heard the Spring had been retaken…” her gaze went to the slowly filling lake that occupied the centre of the hill, moonlight shining down into it from the cleansed crystal formations above. “… I did wonder. You are rather polite compared to all the tales I’ve heard…”

“Well, I fear they did-did do me justice. I was not-not the wisest of Fae, though I do say there were… extenuating… circumstances. But I have grown, and matured. I could not-not stay a foolish child forever. Not as one from a royal line, with royal responsibilities.”

“Grown, huh?” Estalian chuckled, her eyes suddenly shimmering in a full rainbow of colours. “I’ll say. Your father and all your line are wind fae, I believe. Yet from you I sense flame and water too. A strong, sweet water I share.”

“Yes. I too drank deep-deep from the Spring, as you did, long ago, noble Princess Estalian.” Shaeula met her gaze, amber meeting rainbow. “My chosen husband and I, we managed to purify the filth, and some precious moonlight water remained. I felt it was clearly-clearly our due to take it, as a reward for our efforts.”

“Yes, it’s been so long. Many, many years.” Estalian said wistfully, as her fellow sylphs, pixies and other little fae flocked about the shrine, expressing sighs of wonder at the cleansed walls, clear water and strange construction that was occurring. There were other Fae too, plodding gnomes, fiery salamanders, watery undines and nymphs, glowing illuminae, and more. “I remember when the Spring was lost. I grieved, and felt even if it was retaken, it would never be the same.”

Prince Aethelathrion laughed at that, looking a touch embarrassed, having had the same thoughts. He waited patiently with his elves as Estalian, said to be as old as he, and equally related to the Queen, voiced her thoughts.

“It will not-not be the same.” Shaeula declared, surprising her. “It will be better. Even now, Primal Forest and his plantkin are purifying the soil, ready-ready for reforestation. But making it a replica of before is folly, I declare.” Karen is contacting a set of designers for me, landscapers, architects… when they have drawn up plans, I can copy them here and get artisans to make my ideas a reality. “No, the Spring will stand as a rival to the Court of the King and Queen itself, and a monument to our determination, that we not-not ever lose more of our precious Territory again.”

“I see.” Her wings buzzed, and she grinned. “You are certainly as arrogant as I had heard. Though it is hard to dismiss you out of hand. Especially since like I, you have transcended your limitations. And at such a young age too. So tell me this. Can you do it?” she asked, her tone grave.

A good question. “Alone? No.” she shook her head. “I have learned my own shortcomings. But I am not-not alone.” No, I have Akio, and Hyacinth, and Velna, and all my other friends, allies and sisters. Even Grulgor. The Troll was being very quiet, hidden in the corner, waiting for Duke Formor. The kobolds were working around him, but the gloomy aura he was giving off was making them struggle a bit. “So it is not-not a case of can, it is a matter of will. Akio will aid me, and just as we slew Duke Myrcolaxriath, which all deemed impossible, we shall make of this Spring a wonder, the likes-likes of which the Fae Realm has never seen!”

“Fine then. I shall need to hear more of this.” Estalian said, flitting back into the air again, buzzing at Shaeula’s eye-level. “But in principle, I see no reason to deny your claim. After all, I am old enough to remember the days before the ruin…”

Shaeula’s heart leapt at that, and she found herself smiling broadly. I’ve done it! With a fourth branch in my corner, it would take the Queen herself to deny me, and she is hardly likely to come out of seclusion now… “I thank you, Princess Estalian, wisest of the elemental Fae.” She bowed, grateful. “I will ensure you do not-not regret this.”

“Fine. I’ll hold you to that.” She watched the undines and nymphs play in the water, splashing about happily. “So, I trust I will be invited to the wedding then? It should be a grand affair.”

Shaeula grinned at that, her earlier worries fading. “The one in the Seelie Court, yes. I shall be married twice-twice, in the mortal world as well. After all, my husband is… well, perhaps was mortal too.”

“I see. Like the Scotsman.” Estalian chuckled. “A fascinating tale I’m sure, and one I would like to hear. But our impatient elf is glaring daggers at me, so I shall step aside for now.”

“I assure you I am not.” The elven Prince declared, good-naturedly. “After all, I am merely here to offer my support with her efforts, as well as some of my granddaughters and great-granddaughters as her… helpers. And should one of them prove worthy, perhaps…” he grinned, and Shaeula felt a moment of irritation. I promised Eri and the others I would not go behind their backs again. Still, the elf has been mentioned as a possibility, even if Akio was not enthused. But then, he never is, unless… as Prince Aethelathrion introduced the elves, two of which were Way-Wardens, the others competent administrators, archivists or nature-element wielders, Shaeula found her gaze drawn to one, who was standing a little aloof from the others, her silver eyes surveying the area with an expression of cold detachment. Black hair. Unusual and ill-omened, I believe? One thing all elves had in common was perfect beauty, males and females alike looking as though they had been sculpted by master artisans. Yet the features often differed, elves could have eyes and hair of many colours, blonde, silver and green were the most common, though blue, brown and gold were not rare. But one colour was said to be taboo. Elves with black hair were said to bring misfortune to those around them, a lingering curse from a goddess of war and fate. I wonder why the Prince brought her? She was dressed differently too, in a pale silver shirt that was tight and covered a lot of her skin, as well as similarly tight black trousers, which looked a little like the clothing she saw mortals wear in Tokyo. She is certainly distinctive, but her attitude seems off.

Shaeula listened to the introductions of the other elves, graciously saying a few polite words, thanking them for their upcoming help. When it was time for this raven-haired elf to be introduced, she noticed that the Prince was trying to hide a sly smile. I see. Perhaps he is craftier than I give him credit for.

“This is Moira, my great granddaughter.” He said, and at that Moira looked down, seemingly uninterested. “Do excuse the ill-omened name and hair. And her attitude.” He laughed. “Despite appearances, she is no bane, no child of misfortune, despite what people say. Actually she is rather talented. If not overly sociable.”

“I see. Moira, was it?” At the lack of response, Shaeula grinned wolfishly. I see. A challenge. “So, I do not-not need just anyone. What can you do?”

“I am a planner, a logistician.” Moira said, looking down her nose at Shaeula. “I am also in no mood for a husband, despite what great grandfather thinks.” She sighed, tossing her head, silky black hair cascading down her back like an onyx waterfall. “I have no time for such. The Seelie Court is in a dire state, and all we do is carouse, laze around and fight losing battles. Though I will concede, this surprises me. My calculations anticipated we would lose thousands of Fae retaking the Spring and purging the corruption here, even if we used every wielder of nature and wood element we had at our disposal.”

At that, Shaeula’s eyes lit up. I see. This one is clever. She’s hit upon the weakness of the Myconids. “You were on the right track. But you missed a few elements to make-make your plan succeed.”

“Oh, how so?” Moira asked, at last showing interest, her silver eyes intense, as she leaned forwards, and Shaeula couldn’t help but admire her body, which was both slender and curvaceous at the same time. Very pretty indeed. I wonder what Akio will think…

“Nature element was the key, but instead of using it to protect and cleanse, as I assume you intended…?” Moira nodded at that, so she continued. “… we used it to usurp their deadly spores and seeds, turning their own weapons against them, making them much less harmful to us.” There was more to that, of course, but I have no wish to expose Hyacinth to scrutiny. “My Akio, with help from some Mortal Engineers, also came up with some-some protective garments that shielded us from death.”

“I see. So it could be repeated in other…” Moira began, but her great-grandfather cut her off.

“Enough of that now, Moira. I told you, didn’t I? Though she is quite young, Shaeula here is no fool, despite what the rumours say. I believe you’ll find it fulfilling working here. And should you happen to catch his eye, well all the better. After all, other elves can be cruel, can they not?”

“I don’t care if I remain alone forever.” Moira tossed her head, and Shaeula felt the stirring of the fortunate winds around her, unbidden. Yes, we need her. Fortune is telling me so. “So long as I can do satisfying work, and fix the mess the Court is in.”

“I see. Well, I welcome you. Your input should be most-most useful.” Shaeula wasn’t going to let her get away. “So, your first task…” Shaeula held in a sigh, trying to remain regal in front of her new allies. “… I have a meeting with Duke Formor soon-soon. I would like you to be my secretary.”

Moira was surprised by the request, but she nodded, agreeing.

“As for you others, I would request you remain, as witnesses. After all-all…” she grinned sourly. “… Duke Formor does not-not care for me. I would not-not have him speak falsely about what we must discuss…”

********

“Prince Aethelathrion, Princess Estalian.” The huge giant rumbled, his grey skin and fierce red eyes making him look extremely intimidating, the aura of strength radiating off him dwarfing Duke Myrcolaxriath. But then, giants are some of the most powerful Fae, hence why it was such a blow when the majority defected to the Dark Court of Pandemonium. “… and you.” he growled, looking at Shaeula, an expression of annoyance on his massive face. Behind him were two other giants, both smaller, one quite a bit so, and a retinue of a score of trolls, powerful and armoured, though Shaeula noted none of them looked a match for Grulgor, especially not now.

“You? That is quite-quite rude.” Shaeula sniffed, keeping her poise. “Well, I should not-not expect manners from a brute that has tried rather hard to have me murdered, should I?”

Grulgor, who was shrinking beside her, looked as if he wished to be anywhere else. Moira, who was taking notes, seemed completely unmoved by the balefully tense atmosphere, but on closer examination, faint beads of sweat could be seen on her brow.

“Such… bold words.” Duke Formor rumbled. “And where is your proof, little weasel?”

“Yes, such a claim cannot be made without evidence, else it is quite disrespectful, and risks internal strife the court does not need right now.” The elven Prince said mildly.

“Yes, do share. I’m curious.” Estalian chuckled, fanning herself with her wings. “I’m aware of the distaste Aggressor faction fools hold for you and your family, but surely they would not be so brazen.”

Duke Formor growled at the insult, but Estalian was beyond his censure. “Yes, I… this is surely a misunderstanding.”

“Oh really? Well then, Grulgor?” Shaeula asked, and the troll sighed, a great booming exhalation, before speaking. “Duke, Grul apologises. Grul did fail to carry out your orders. Grul was beaten in battle and did swear Oaths to serve the Princess and her husband.”

“You truly are useless. I should crush you like mere stone. What of your Oaths to me? Are you an Unseelie, faithless like the Fomorians, the other trolls, the ogres, their other treacherous kin?” Duke Formor shouted, his eyes starting to glow a baleful ruby.

“Duke, please do calm down.” The smaller giant said, resting an arm on his. “Getting angry and damaging the Spring would be a great shame. I am sure our dear troll has a good explanation, right?” the giant smiled at Grulgor, but though his face was smiling, his eyes weren’t.

“Grul will not oppose you, Duke.” Grulgor promised. “Unless you seek to harm the princess.” As Duke Formor twitched angrily again, Grulgor continued, and Shaeula was a little impressed, as despite his Oaths to her and Akio, standing up to his lord was an act most Fae found difficult. “You hated her because she was weak. Grul understands. Grul hates petty weak cowards. We lose and lose again, because many have grown lazy, weak, pathetic. Princess was worst of all. Arrogant, stupid, pathetic.”

“That does-does hurt my feelings. Perhaps because it was true.” Shaeula muttered, bringing a laugh from Hyacinth, which drew the gaze of the smaller giant, who looked startled for a moment.

“But now, the princess is strong. And she is not alone. Look around us?” Grulgor gestured with his arms. “Grul was here. We crushed many, many puny fungi. Then the Duke, he was angry. We crushed him too.” Grul gurgled with laughter, remembering. “So boastful, but Grul broke him! Grul could not kill the princess. Forgive me.”

“I do not… know what you mean.” Duke Formor was cautious of the eyes of the others. “I gave no such orders, fool. Duke Vulpatrius, my sworn brother, was to marry her sister. Why would I wish her ill will?” he shrugged, his massive shoulders moving like mountains. “Though Duke Vulpatrius is now sorrowful Prince Shaetanao has called it off.”

“Yes, think carefully, my dear Grulgor.” The smaller giant said, his tone light despite the gravity of these accusations. “The Duke never told you to kill her, did he? You never were the best at thinking.”

“I see.” Grulgor brightened. “Then Grulgor did not fail, Grulgor in fact did good work. The princess is safe, and her weakness has been removed from the world, like you wanted. Grul was there to see her grow strong. Not weak anymore.” Grulgor’s smile was surprisingly sly, and for a moment everyone was stunned, until Shaeula burst out laughing, followed by Estalian, and a moment later by the elven Prince.

“I see. Yes, that is easily misunderstood, is it not-not?” Grulgor is far less stupid than he was, now that he has gained strength from these levels. To think he could bait Duke Formor like that. I find myself warming to him more and more. I guess being allies does have an effect.

The red glow in Duke Formor’s eyes intensified, and Estalian tensed, her own energies rising. But it was then someone surprising spoke up. “Hyacinth remembers you.” she pointed at the smaller giant. “You hurt me, put me in the booox.”

The giant cocked his head, seemingly puzzled, but Shaeula wasn’t fooled. He recognised her earlier. And we suspected one of the Dukes was behind her appearance in my brother’s wagons. “ I see. Is this true?”

“It is.” Hyacinth nodded. “Though… Hyacinth was nooot well then, I was always angry, wanting to kill, to break, tooo burn. It was right to punish Hyacinth. Besides, nooow I know where I am meant tooo be!”

“I see. Well, I suppose I should be thanking you then, should I not-not?” Shaeula grinned, though it was utterly lacking in humour or goodwill. “To think you would send us such a worthy servant, I am quite-quite touched. Still…” she glared at the giants before her. “… she took quite the labour to subdue. She could quite easily have killed many-many. Rather reckless of you, to send her unannounced. I wonder just what-what you were thinking? An attempt to do me ill, perhaps?”

“You dare accuse me?” Duke Formor rumbled. “I take that as an affront…”

“As you should. For I intended it so. Speaking of servants. I want them back. Both of them. Risha, that traitorous bitch, and Klena, who remained loyal. And if Klena is hurt, I shall not-not rest until you suffer. I AM NOT SCARED OF YOU!” she declared boldly, and was surprised to find she meant it. If I can not defeat him now, alone, then Akio will help. If together we can not, others will aid us. If we still can not, then we will grow stronger until we can! “You aided some-some of the Night Parade to infiltrate our lands, to slay me. Well, where are they now? Dead. I slew one with my own-own hands and claimed my place in the Parade. Fae, Yokai. Mortal. You are a fool if you think these things matter, Duke!” she showed off her Kamaitachi form proudly. “I have slain Wild Hunt, Unseelie… all that matters is the will, is it not-not? Duke Formor, you have transgressed against me and my family repeatedly, and I am most wroth. But I am not-not one to hold grudges, after all, was I not-not forgiven by my Akio, the one I love?” All eyes were on her now as she unleashed a speech of fiery passion, captivating them. “Duke Formor, you hate-hate the Unseelie, the traitors, and wish to reclaim our stolen land, do you not-not? Well, I have reclaimed the Spring, and ask for the right of the conqueror, to rule it for the good of all the Fae. But I shall not-not stop. Salamandrastrae.”

At that one word, everyone held their breath. If Ulfuric were here, he would be shocked indeed. “Salamandrastrae.” She repeated. “The giants that took it and hold it still. I intend to drive them out-out, crush them. And I will succeed!”

“Impossible!” Duke Formor roared, furious. “Do you mock me, little weasel? Against the might of..”

“Oh shut the fuck up!” Shaeula surprised them with mortal invective. “You do not-not get to tell me what is impossible. It was impossible to defeat Grulgor, to tame Hyacinth, to defeat the Wild Hunt who raided our lands, to slay-slay those assassins from the Night Parade. To reclaim the Spring and purge the foul Myconids. You do not-not get to tell me what is impossible or not-not, for with Akio and the others by my side, what we can achieve is limited only by our ambition.”

“Marvellous.” Prince Aethelathrion clapped suddenly, taking the time to defuse the explosive atmosphere. “You have to admit she speaks well and boldly. Duke Formor, you are not recognised as a Prince, despite leading the branch of the giantkin. Even so, you have great influence and importance, guarding our northern borders. Why not use it wisely, support the princess here? She is offering you an olive branch.”

“Indeed. Give me back my maids, and do not-not be a fool. And you had best-best pray they are unharmed, or it will not-not be the giants of the Unseelie who bleed first.”

Estalian whistled softly at the threat, and Moira, who was writing away ferociously, noting all this down, had gone deathly pale, even her stoic lack of emotion overwhelmed by the fury on display. For a long moment there was a deep silence, before Duke Formor squeezed shut his eyes, laughing, the booming sound echoing through the hill housing the Spring.

“Little weasel, you have great courage to say that to my face, or do you only say that because these others are watching?”

“Try me. You are strong. I do not-not deny it. The thought of fighting you does make me tremble, but I have learned to fight for what I want. And do not-not think your greater strength means you shall triumph. I have bested foes stronger than me before, and if I must, I shall-shall do it again.”

“She means it.” he rumbled to his two giant companions, after a long stare, the fires in his eyes simmering down to orange and red embers. “The little weasel would fight me. How… charming.” A long sigh escaped him, and he conceded. “Grulgor, you fool. Are you still loyal to me?”

“Of course, Grul deeply respects you, Duke. But Grul cannot break his other Oaths. Grul will side with the princess against you if he must. But Grul thinks you will see who is not worthy of hatred, and respect her strength. Strength is everything to the giantkin. You told Grul that.”

“Well, this is fascinating.” The small giant said. “When did you get so smart, Grulgor? I thought you only had rocks for brains.”

“He’s stronger too.” The other giant, who was carrying a tall staff, and had been silent until now, said suddenly.

“Yes. You are.” Duke Formor gazed at Grulgor until he looked down, unable to endure the pressure. “Very well. You have bested me here.” The Duke declared, and Shaeula let out the breath she was holding, the sick feeling in her stomach dissipating. Even with the Prince and Princess watching, this has been rather stressful. Oh Akio, how I wish you were with me. But no, you will be getting revenge on that creature about now, the hideous one that wounded us both… I shall show you I am strong, worthy to be beside you.

“Good. So my maids?”

“I am afraid the one you call Risha is not with us. She has gone, she left swiftly after arriving.”

At that Shaeula tensed, angered, but the Duke continued. “The other. You called her Klena? We have her. She is of no use to us.”

“She had better not-not be harmed…” Shaeula warned, remembering Akio talking about the blood he found at the site she vanished.

“Well, she was in a poor state when we received her, I apologise.” The smaller giant said. “It seemed she objected to… well, never mind. Why rake up old wounds?” he grinned, and Shaeula fought the urge to call upon wind, flame and water to attack him, so annoying was his smug smile. “However she came to be in our possession, we did not torture her or anything like that. We are hardly Unseelie. In fact, I patched her wounds up myself, you should be grateful.”

I hate this giant. But I can do nothing. Not if I wish to solve this without civil war. My father would rally the Beastkin, and Duke Vulpatrius would rebel, it would be chaos…

Biting her lip in frustration, she spoke in monotone. “Oh, I am indeed most-most grateful. So, she is well?”

“Well, perhaps rather hungry and frightened. We did leave her in one of the oubliettes under Mount Formor. But will that not make her reunion with you a joyous one, to see the moon again?”

Shaeula’s throne shattered under her sudden tense grip, and Moira tensed at that, while Estalian whistled again, clearly enjoying the barbed exchange and spectacle. “I see. Well, have her sent to me forthwith. And not-not in a box, like poor Hyacinth, lest you raise my ire.”

“It shall be done. So the matter rests here?” Duke Formor asked the other nobles, the Prince and Princess, and they both agreed.

“Oh, for now, yes. But I trust-trust you will endorse my claim as Duchess of this Spring?” I hate letting this go, but it is for the best. It is more important to get the support of the Duke and Klena returned safely. Though Risha’s time will come. She must have fled to Duke Vulpatrius…

“Very well.” The Duke declared. “Grulgor…”

“Yes, Grul is listening.” He replied warily.

“You may remain here, as a… mark of goodwill. It seems we have misunderstood each other. Perhaps you are not as useless as I had feared.”

“Grul is happy to hear that. Grul still respects the Duke.” He slammed his stony fist on his chest in a salute.

“I shall see to the safe return of your maid.” The small giant said. “The poor thing, she might well be a little… shaken… by the experience. I expect her to make a full recovery, but I doubt her memories of Mount Formor will survive.”

Bastard. Still, I am in no position to argue. I can not put Klena at risk. I shall make it up to her in time. Shaeula shot the giant a flat, angry look, but he merely giggled, reminding her a little of Hyacinth at that moment. “Well, I am happy for you, princess. Or is it Duchess now?” the giant continued to chortle, as if everything was greatly amusing him. “After all, us half-breeds must surely sympathise with each other. I am happy for you too, boggart… no, not a boggart. Something different.”

Hyacinth tilted her head, confused, but still thanked the giant, while Shaeula shook her head, irritated. “Half-breed or not-not, I am me. We put too much stock in such matters. It is our heart that determines our value.” She turned her gaze back to the Duke. “When the time comes to retake Salamandrastrae and the north, I shall call-call upon you. Your giants are mighty, I deny it not-not. But before that… cease your trafficking with the Night Parade. I shall do something about them. After all, I am my mother’s daughter, am I not-not?” she proudly showed off her jade blades, cracking with wind energies, at wrists and feet.

“Bah.” The Duke grumbled. “It seems you are, more than your father’s daughter. Cowardly Royalists are seldom so bold.”

“Well, I care not-not for the factions, only our victory.” Shaeula declared, and that brought a smile to the Duke’s face. Perhaps Grulgor was right. Duke Formor does respect strength. If only Duke Vulpatrius was so easy…

“Worthy sentiments. Ones I share.” The Duke paused. “Duke Vulpatrius will not so easily accept you. His hatred for your father runs deep, and not merely over factional disputes.  And he did rather wish to have your sister. The Duke desires proud women, and to bend one of your father’s daughters to his will… well, it seems it was not to be, but the fox holds grudges. It will only stoke his ire. Watch yourself. I would not see you fall until the Unseelie and Wild Hunt lie crushed and in ruins. Seeing the destruction you have wrought here pleases me.” He laughed again, like rocks crashing together.

“Well, far be it for me to tell that worthless fox who he can or can not-not marry, but my sister is too good for him. No, I shall-shall tell him. Talaisha is too good for him too. I intend to offer her a position myself, if she can not-not fend him off. My sister cares deeply for her friend, and I have learned, friends are without price.”

“I see. Well, that matters little to me.” The Duke said, nodding to the elven Prince and the sylph Princess. “Ferexulu here will return your maid, and the matter ends here. I must depart, I do not wish to leave the northern border undefended too long.”

“Farewell, princess, strange maid.” Ferexulu giggled, as the trolls and other giant withdrew silently. “I shall see you soon!”

Delightful. I could do without that. But no, Klena comes first. Once they were gone, Shaeula turned to the sweating Moira. “So, how was it? Did it meet-meet your expectations?”

“You cannot be serious.” She said, wiping at her soaked forehead, pushing back her damp black locks. “Salamandrastrae is a fortress that the Fomorians have reinforced and turned into an impassable barrier. Many have the strength to match Duke Formor himself. It would be suicide.”

“Well, you shall have time to learn.” Shaeula smiled, relieved now that the Duke was gone. Grulgor seemed to share her sentiments, as he had slumped down, exhausted. “So…” she turned to the two rulers of the Fae. “Duke Formor has consented. That will split the Aggressor faction. My claim should-should be cemented, no?”

“I see no issues.” Estalian giggled, and I knew that Prince Aethelathrion was already committed, hence why the elves were here.

“Well in that case, I will not-not be satisfied until I have retrieved that traitor Risha, as well as freed Talaisha from the threat of marriage to her moronic firefox of a father, she is too-too good to waste on him, and I owe my sister. So, you heard the Duke. They may not-not have overtly broken our laws and Oaths, but they skirted very close to it. So, you will answer my one small request, right…?”

As the elves brought by their Prince and relative looked on, smiling, except for the gloomy-looking Moira, Shaeula pressed her advantage, unwilling to allow her enemies to escape punishment, even if she could only inflict token damage as retribution…