Open Chronicles A Diplomatic Ball

[Selene]

It seemed that Selene was not done talking, yet. A sidelong glance at Helena, and then she stood.

"For ages, the Knights of Anathaeum have not strayed in our... requests. Our creed remains the same: to nurture the wyld places, and the spirits who reside within it. To aid those in need, regardless of land or allegiance."

Pretty words. And useless, for actual documentation, which the young princess was keen on writing.

Selene wasted no more time. Her eyes hardened, glossy and dark. "We ask for freedom of movement within your territories, that which you would grant your own citizens. And the authority to recruit willing prospects into our ranks. In exchange, our Order will share with your artisans the ways of our most ancient craeft: that of willowsteel, starsilk, and warding stones."

 

[Helena]

A moment, to let Selene's words sink in. To let the message ring clear.

Helena shift, just so. Stood. Her head cant towards the Princess. "To facilitate this burgeoning trust, and make shared our craefts, we offer a score of our Knights, to be your wards. In hopes that they may aid your peoples, and your lands, in what way you see most fit, and lend you their council, if ever there is need for it,"

So few in number was their Order, that such a pledge was no small gift.

Most oft, a pair of knights were given assignment as diplomatic wards. Loyal to both, their new Lords, and the Order from which they came. Agents to weave peace, and pass on the ways of the Wyld, so that the land all shared would be better for it.

 

[Azlat Ushus]

Willow-steel? Star-silk? What on Arethil was this stuff? Azlat perked up upon hearing it. She didn't have a clue what made it special, and the names certainly didn't help. What 'willow' had to do with 'steel' was something she could only guess. Whatever connected stars with silk was beyond comprehension.

Despite her ignorance, it was still clear from the context of Selene's statement that these items were rare, guarded, and potentially useful. Which implied they were valuable. The terms however, were simply not tenable for Azlat to pursue. She simply didn't care for crafters when she made her money off the merchants. Azlat secured sources of limited and rare goods from afar. The merchants do the work, carry the risk, and kick Azlat a cut for arranging it. Artisans, on the other hand, had neither inclination nor need to bribe curry favour with her.

If the Sky Elves accepted, Azlat might have yet another source to keep that glorious fountain of gold flowing.

She spoke nothing, but maintained keen attention.