The Empire The Sapphire Oasis

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Vasilios

Patron of The Arts
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The Oasis.jpg

The heat of the desert could slowly burn a mind to the brink of insanity. With each heavy step, with the sting of the sand hitting them from all sides, and with the endless dry hills, it chips away at a person's strength, leaving them exhausted. Annuakat wasn't any different. The city was renowned for its abundance of food and plentiful water but its people were exhausted. The Empire's takeover, the Drakormir incident, Gerra's absence, and the ever changing political tides of the empire made a shriveled-up paranoid populace out of a once proud city. Every day they waited for some other bad news. Some other disaster. Some other reason to go back into hiding.

Every desert needed an oasis. When The Sapphire Oasis opened up, news of the spectacular building spread through Annuakat like wildfire. An old noble's home that had been abandoned after the nobleman was killed in the siege of Annuakat. The building had been passed from person to person until a newcomer purchased the property. Over time the building turned from a decrepit family home into a work of art. The outside walls had simplistic murals of desert mariposa and desert sage. There was even a pretty set of windchimes to welcome visitors with its chimes.

The arches were a mixture of Annuakat and Ragash designs but the pillars looked as though they were expertly carved from stone. The first floor was a mixture of tiles and stone while a few of the walls held small mosaic flower designs in the connecting corners of the walls. Plants were placed tactfully while blue pillows for sitting were set up for customers. The mixture of blue and greens created the illusion of an internal oasis.

The second floor was where the wealthier customers could pay a small extra fee to spend their time. There was a patio and a gorgeous water fountain with a pool circling it. The water fountain had been enchanted to allow recycling of the water without fear of it drying up or getting it dirty. Even if a hundred people stuck their dirty feet into the pool, it would remain as crystal clear as the day it had been made. Cushions for sitting were made of a soft cyan silk and guests were served with blue and green glass plates instead of the sturdy stoneware plates used downstairs. The Hookah's provided for guests wouldn't create any smell or too much smoke, for their more sensitive guests, but was still provided.

The Sapphire Oasis was a place to wine, dine, and relax. Despite the obvious elitism of the second floor, the downstairs floor was relatively cheap for its food. A regular person could afford a meal with a spot of coffee if they were feeling ambitious. The location of the Sapphire Oasis had been carefully considered, as they were close to busy markets and was settled right next to an inn. Both tourists and local shoppers would be drawn in by the delicious smells flowing from the restaurant.

Whether it was the clever advertisement or desperation of the populace for something not involving death and despair, The Sapphire Oasis were endlessly busy for the first few weeks it had opened. Nobility and commoners alike came in for the rumors but stayed for the food. The fastest way to the people's coin was through their stomachs.

Then one night the entire restaurant was strictly reserved by it's patron, Vasilios Jaziri. People began to talk about what this patron of the arts had in store and began excitedly chatting over what the noble would be up to.

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The patron of the Oasis busily checked over every aspect of the restaurant, looking for any small flaw that could become a problem. Both floors were spotless and his selection of servers were known for being tight-lipped, even if someone attempted to bribe or threaten. The music played in the distance was gentle but pleasant, never too loud or disrupting to conversations. And as always, the food and drinks were excellent. Even he had chosen to wear an elegant dark blue robe with some golden earrings to present himself suitably.

All of this effort so that a group of nobles and representatives of an Abtati tribe could converse in a comfortable location. Vasilios had earned some trust of a few Abtati through assisting and learning from Abtati merchants. The windchimes on the entrance of The Sapphire Oasis were a design choice inspired by tales of how Abtati children were lulled to sleep by its sounds and would make them out of reeds as gifts for the family. The pillars made of stone were sculpted by a visiting Abtati and even the food were made from recipes that some of the tribes graciously shared.

These additions that were small to humans were a sign of welcome for the Abtati. Vasilios had done his research and intended to create a space where the two cultures could merge instead of clashing. What he didn't expect was to be chosen as a host for a group of nobles and Abtati to discuss improving relations. Despite the empowerment of the Abtati in the city, they still clashed with the nobles. The nomadic ways of Abtati made it difficult to connect with Annuakat locals and the nobles still remembered their fellow Marya's deaths.

But some were tired of the constant internal fighting. Others saw opportunity in new connections. And some were afraid of a continued clash between the nobility while Gerra was still absent. The clever ones knew this infighting would serve as opportunity for outside forces to create weakness within the noble class. Either way, the desire for communication was enough to ask Vasilios to host a meeting for both parties.

Vasilios was a noble but a minor one. He held a reputation of focusing more on the arts and finer things in life than in politics. If it had been a higher up noble or someone else, both sides would have been weary of such a meeting. If they had chosen a noble's home or created a large celebration or important meeting, the tensions would escalate. Instead they chose a subtler, casual place for the meeting with a host who had little to gain from the situation. The location was also a place where the Abtati felt more comfortable with its designs and food, as it had come directly from their tribes.

Security was another issue Vasilios had thought about. He had already gone through the trouble of investigating every single staff member and ensuring that only the guest who had been invited by both sides would be allowed to enter. The guest would still bring their own form of security and Vasilios had been careful to remind both sides that The Blue Oasis was a restaurant and NOT a palace. Security would be present but not perfect and he was not responsible for any troubles that occurred during the meeting.

Guests began to arrive and Vasilios went down to greet them and show them to their seats on the upper floor. The seats chosen were near enough to the water fountain for guests to enjoy the crystal blue waters but far enough to allow them to speak clearly. As both Marya nobles and Abtati nobles arrived, tensions were already high despite this being a casual meeting. Vasilios was a fairly charming man and began telling them stories about his time in the desert, effectively distracting both parties from their worrying minds.

He ended one of his tales with a lamentation over children being reckless. That got some of the parents to sympathize and tell stories of their own about their children. The ones without kids began discussing over what happened when they were kids and how their parents reacted. Children were easier to discuss, as some moments were universal. The first moment a child learned to crawl and all the endless dumbass decisions they tend to make. Tensions began to lift as they began serving delicious wine and telling stories. After assessing the situation to be calmer, Vasilios went downstairs to prepare for more guests.

On the outside he was calm and held his charming smile but on the inside he was a bit nervous. There were still more guests to arrive and the night had only just begun.
 
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No gathering of Imperial nobles, whether Annuakati, Ragashi, or otherwise, escaped the attentions of the Vizier of Stars, the Empress Regent, Medja of Ragash. Most, of course, she was ambivalent to. Medja hardly had the time to play the role of socialite these days given the weight of her responsibilities, so proxies and spies were made heavy use of in order to keep tabs on the affairs of those with status and power. Such was the role of her area of vizierdom, after all.

The meeting at the Sapphire Oasis, however, piqued Medja's interest far more than the usual cocktail party or gala, however. Primarily because of its host. A newcomer, a supposedly beautiful man with no previous ties to the Empire, somehow wealthy enough to reserve the most illustrious restaurant in Annuakat for himself and draw the attention of several Abtati noble families. Indeed, how could Medja stay away?

Sporting a dress designed with no uncertain degree of glamour, Medja weightlessly drifted into the Sapphire Oasis flanked by one of her faithful Emerald Hands. A gentle smile crept over her lips as she drew in the surroundings; Annuakat had certainly stepped up its game since last she graced it. Now the question remained: how would the preeminent host perform?
 
In the world of The Empire, Len Dy't B-taa was still very much on the outside looking in. Cast to the future form the shadows of the past, the bronze-skinned sand warrior was a relic of the past, brought back from a death that had claimed him generations upon generations ago. The reason? The greed of man, initially. And then nothing. The former Grand Terios was a sword without an owner, a hilt without a hand to grip it. So, he wandered, travelling the great Savannah that had once been his home in search of a reason. In search of a purpose.

Until a purpose, minor as it may be, found him.

The city of Ragash had taken him as one of their own, given him a place to rest his head and a crown at which to kneel, under the approval of the family Merira. A chance encounter with Ahti Merira in particular had led him to far clearer skies as of late, now serving Ahti and her family, and by extension The Empire as a whole. The worn rags and broken armor that covered his body was tossed aside, replaced with glimmering white cloth and gold plating that replicated his wear of old. The Merira family even attempted to replicate his weapon, with a fair level of success. It wasn't the same, but Len's dance was as deadly as it ever was.

"Grip your sword and never be forgotten." That was what Yura had asked of him that last night they spent in one another's arms. The way people turned their heads to look at him now as he walked the roads of Annuakat a shining warrior of the sands, a shimmering guardian of the Savannah.

Len almost felt as though he were the Grand Terios once again, leading the very rays of the sun to pierce the hearts of any who would harm his home. He could hear the brass-shapen horns sounding the Vaast Nazca, rallying the passion in every soul loyal to the Lord Emperor Rel'leth as the very city they lived in moved across the desert plains to conquer new lands.

Then, Len would open his eyes and return to reality. A somber feeling would rest against his spine. The sensation of the ground beneath him returning and the sun ceasing to heed his orders as it once did.

B-taa was not here as some hero to these people. No, he followed only the orders of The Regent Medja. Empress of the very city he'd been serving in. The Merira house had seemed almost as baffled as he when the invitation arrived requesting his presence and his alone at this gathering. Nonetheless, he was assured by them that it was an invitation he could not refuse.

As unfamiliar as he was with Annuakat, the Saphire Oasis proved easy enough to locate. It was so polished and well maintained that it practically glowed in the heat of the sun. Len kept his hood up, unwilling to show his presence to none until he was before the one who had summoned him. Such was tradition, at least to him.

Entering the Oasis wasn't an issue, given he had a handwritten note from the curvaceous figure that he could see mingling about from where he stood in the doorway. Len had learned a very important lesson from the Empress before he'd spoken but a word to her: She did not make herself easy to miss.

In the Kingdom of old, Len knew not a soul that would vie for the attention of any other. It was certainly beginning to seem as though time had not weathered the beauty of women, a fact he was becoming quite grateful for, though he entertained no thoughts of the type regarding this particular woman.

He'd known warriors who became bedmates with their Queen. Their heads rarely sat atop their necks for very long.

"Noble Empress Regent." Dy't B-taa spoke loudly enough to be heard, but softly enough to show his subservience as he lowered to a knee. "I've arrived at your request; my name is Len Dy't B-taa, proudly serving House Mirira of Ragash."

All these new names... every time he introduced himself, he wanted to use his old titles and it was becoming somewhat bothersome how deeply ingrained they were in his mind.
 
Other guests arrived, some delayed by travel while others had difficulty with time management. He would guide them to the upper floor then return to greet more guests. The final guests showed themselves. A gorgeous woman wearing a green and gold gown stood with an Emerald Hand. It wasn't difficult to figure out that this was the empress regent. Another figure approached, a warrior wearing a hood knelt in front of the empress and spoke to her. Vasilios waited for their conversation to finish before approaching them. He gave an elegant bow to the Empress Medja and a polite nod of acknowledgement to Len Dy't B-taa.

"It is an honor for you to join us, your majesty." He said politely, "I am the host for this evening. You may call me Vasilios Jaziri. Please, allow me to guide you and your party to the upper floors."

His greeting was formal and polite, but didn't take too long. He could have dumped a thousand compliments into his greeting yet he had a feeling that doing such a thing would only annoy her and her warrior friends. On the outside he was calm and collected. On the inside, he was deeply upset by the fact that nobody had bothered to inform him that the empress regent, the queen of the entire empire, would be joining the meeting! He shoved those feelings aside for later and simply went to his duty of being a decent host.

Vasilios guided them to the upper floors where the meeting had grown quite comfortable. Both parties had fallen into relaxed conversation as they discussed the new restaurant and their host, likely spreading rumors and gossip. The second they spotted the Empress, a hush fell over the nobles. Clearly they hadn't been expecting her majesty either. Vasilios quickly guided her to a seat that was close to the rest of the nobles so she could participate at any moment in their conversations but with enough distance so that her and her guards, along with her new friend would be able to have their own privacy.

Their table was adorned with simple but beautiful glassware and each spot had a decorated papyrus sheet with a list of drinks they could order from the waiters. He was suddenly relived that he had gone through such careful inspection of each waiter before the event. The drinks on the papyrus had a list of ingredients underneath so the guests would know what type of alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages were available. Coffee, cactus milk, water, date wine, and other beverages were listed. However, the specialty drinks did not list their ingredients beyond the alcohol used. These drinks could only be found at The Sapphire Oasis.

The first specialty drink was called Desert Tears. It was a cocktail served in a tall glass chalice. The drink was fragrant and made from desert herbs and spices. They combined juniper berry spirits, cold green tea, lemon juice, and egg whites then shook it to produce a frothy head. The drink would be finished with powdered sugar, cardamom, and mint leaves. The foam was useful to keep the sand of the desert out of one's drink but the Abtati would likely be the only ones to notice such a small detail.

The second specialty drink was called Water of Life, an homage to the restaurant's themes of an oasis. This cocktail was served in a glass sculpted to hold the appearance of a flower. It combined molasses spirits with smaller portions of cinnamon and wormwood liqueur with a dash of wormwood bitters. This drink was finished off with a blue citrus liqueur poured softly to form a distinct layer over the rest of the drink.

The last specialty drink was called Sun Shade. It was served in a short glass and combined bourbon, date syrup, and bitters over ice. The would be shaken then strained into the glass filled with more ice. Then it would be garnished with a date and orange citrus.

The guests began ordering their drinks but Vasilios could tell that all eyes were still on the Empress and her warrior Len Dy't B-taa. The nobility seemed to have forgotten their original goals the moment higher royalty showed up. They were only nobles after all and could barely contain their sweeping ambitions. Vasilios, sensing the party's mood starting to shift, snapped his fingers for one of the waiters to fetch their musician.

"Its about time we had some music." Vasilios stated with a charming smile.

An old man carrying an instrument, almost like a harp, called a benet. The old man was well dressed and clean but many of the nobles were somewhat disappointed that it wasn't a beautiful woman or man who was playing. Until... they hears it. The musician's fingers were slow but followed the rhythm of the song beautifully. Each note held an old melody that both Abtati and Annuakat nobles would recognize. It was called Lost by Moonlight, an old lullaby that had seeped it's way into both cultures. The original creators were the Abtati but it had found its way into the nurseries of humans as well.

Both noble groups were shocked to discover that the other recognized the song and this caused a spur of discussion among them. Although they were still keeping an eye on the Empress and Len Dy't B-taa, the intensity of their attentions had lessoned.
 
As Len made his entrance and introduced himself to Medja, the regent exchanged a glance with her Hand, Rhix, then smiled knowingly at the kneeling, gold-plated man. The man out of time, the wandering warrior from another era. Of course, it was only natural that she'd taken an interest in such a curious figure. Any information broker worth their salt would have, and it just so happened that the two of them had a bit in common.

How lucky Medja felt knowing that she'd managed to round two of the most interesting men in Amol-Kalit into a single gathering. Not the gathering she would have preferred, certainly, but a good starting place. With company such as this things had a precedent to not be dull; she only hoped that neither the host nor Len would disappoint.

"Rise, Sir Dy't B-taa of House Miria," She greeted him; she needed no introduction. "Let us engage in the fripperies of Kaliti nobility and learn more of each other."

As he did rise, Medja would loop her arm around his as they began their venture.

T'was not long after that their illustrious host presented himself. She offered a polite smile and dip of her head as the man bowed.
"A pleasure, Mister Jaziri, and thank you for accommodating my last minute intrusion. When I heard of such a quaint gathering I simply couldn't stay away."

Introductory formalities dealt with, Medja would proceed to the second floor with her current company. After getting seated she ordered a so-called Water of Life and basked in the attention of the nobles until the music began.

Medja didn't have the same context that the other guests seemed to, but she enjoyed the gentle chords nonetheless.

"It is quite a beautiful piece," She chimed, sipping from her drink before turning her attentions to her guest. "How are you finding life in our humble Empire, Sir Dy't B-taa?"
 
Medja certainly didn't act like any Regent he'd met in his past life. The lords and kings of his past were dedicated only to the furthering of the Kingdom, and the growth of their great and holy land. Some saw them as cold, but in on the contrary, they cared far more than any middling politician or overeager blade. This Empress though, he saw the fire behind her eyes as he rose at her command; Yet something else lingered as well. The faintest spark of mischief that made no attempt to hide from him. "I fear there's much about me you will find little but fairy tale."

Without much warning, the voluptuous ruler looped her arm around his own. B-taa cast a mildly bemused glance down at their connection, but offered no resistance to the gesture as the host of this little party made himself known and pulled Len's attention away. Vasilios Jaziri... A confident young man, with an enigmatic aura emanating from him.

The type wasn't uncommon within The Empire he was learning. Casting a brief glance back to his Empress, she seemed absolutely pleased with herself. Could she not smell that strange odor coming from their host?

He wished not to speak out of turn, but there was something about this Vasilios that caused the hairs on the back of his neck to stand straight. Perhaps odor wasn't the term he searched for, but... No, he was a gracious host in accepting the presence of a complete stranger like him at this gathering. Dy't B-taa would not allow his mind to form theories that would belittle Jaziri's character

Len merely bowed his head to the eccentric host instead, accompanying Medja to her seat and requesting some water from himself. It wasn't until they were seated that he finally pulled his hood back to expose the skin of his face to the bright sun.

The song that played gently through the air like dancing spirits to the beat of their hearts was indeed an interesting composition, and it served to make what could have been an awkward silence much more calming. "It has notes from various cultures. The schemes and rhythms jump between stanzas in a way just subtle enough to slip unnoticed. A unifying song, I would imagine. One that's crossed many borders and peoples." His eyes traveled over the others who sat around them, drinking and eating happily. No matter their race, creed, or dress, all seemed to connect to such a melody.

Then, he focused once more upon his Empress Regent.

"There is much about this Empire that reminds me of my home. It feels as though I am in a dream, wherein everything is so similar, and yet different all at once. These great cities are vast, but they cannot move. The Naazca doesn't sound through their streets. The sun doesn't heed my call atop its tallest buildings."

Quickly he broke his gaze, staring down at the water as it was placed on the table before him.

"I mean no disrespect. I'm a relic attempting to fit in with a new world. I know not my tongue at times, my Regent."
 
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Vasilios smiled as he spotted Medja and Len engaged themselves in conversation comfortably but made no motion to interrupt either of them. As long as they appeared to be enjoying the party, then his host duty to them was complete. He conversed with a few other nobles who looked a bit shy and set the individual up with another before taking his leave. After the drinks were all passed out, he subtly motioned for the appetizers to be brought.

A hummus and fruit platter, baklava and mini stuffed pita pockets were brought in ornate dishes and set at each table. The appetizer that drew the most attention was the pan-fried scorpion tails with a side of creamy dip. The recipe was a classic among the nomadic Abtati, as they had to learn how to survive on any foods provided in the harsh desert. They had shown him how to drain the poison out of the tails and even shared a secret recipe of the dip, which held the antidote to scorpion poison in case any of it wasn’t drained properly.

The many months of networking, negotiation, and visits had mostly been for this dish. The eyes of the Abtati lit up in delight at the treat and they quickly began piling the tails onto their plates. The delicious bed of buttery spices and the creamy dip appealed to their tastes while reminding them of the comforts of home. The Annuakat nobles, though delighted at the familiar scents of baklava and stuffed pita pockets, dared not touch such a strange dish. A young noble, barely nineteen, was enraged when the dish was set in front of him.

“Is this some kind of crude joke?!” The young noble exploded, “How dare you place such a disgusting and dangerous dish in front of us?!”

Although he was addressing Vasilios, the Abtati couldn’t help but take the insult personally. For many of them, this was a crucial part of their culture. The fae man had a feeling that many nobles would show hesitation but this direct act of rudeness was unexpected. Vasilios simply smiled and addressed the young noble.

“Ah, I see you are unfamiliar with the dish. My apologies for not explaining it further. It is an exquisite recipe provided kindly by the Abtati tribe I worked with. The tails are drained of their poison and even the dip provides an antidote in the event it was cooked improperly.” He explained, “Then it is fried in buttery spices and served best with a glass of a minerally brut Champagne. Some even consider it a test of bravery, which I’m sure you’ll have no issue with.”

The young noble was taken aback by Vasilios’ smooth response and even seemed to be tempted for a moment in trying the strange food. Yet, his pride won and he recklessly pursued the perceived slight, only this time casting his eye on Medja and Len.

“B-but it is an insult to her majesty and her esteemed guest to set such dangerous foods in front of them!” The young noble insisted.

All the eyes of the room were set on Medja and Len. Unfortunately there was little Vasilios could do now, as the ball had been thrown to them. The trickiest part of these social events was dealing with the power of hierarchy. Either Len or Medja could show their disapproval and efficiently shut down any good will of the meeting. Politics was ever a delicate thing.

Medja Len Dy't B-taa
 
"I fear there's much about me you will find little but fairy tale."

Now in their seats, the regent's eyes squinted nearly imperceptibly, a grin stretching across her mien. She leaned forward and rested her chin in the palm of her hand, fingers tapping thoughtfully on her own cheek. The glimmer in her eye was nearly tangible, and the view she was creating for Len was far from unintentional. It was true: Medja made no attempt at disguising her social roguery. Not in these situations, at least.
"Perhaps. But there is much truth to be found in fairy tales, I have learned. That fact fascinates me."

For a warrior, Len certainly seemed in tune with the finer points of art. Another point towards Medja's intrigue in the man.
"Quite...it is a far cry from anything I ever danced to in my youth, but a fine choice for someone attempting harmony among the audience." She replied pensively. She did not break eye contact. Medja didn't care for the peoples around her; she knew them well enough already. Not closely, by any means, but they were...familiar to her. They were lost in petty squabbles over accruing what fragments of power they could, or in the most bare and shallow of demonstrations of status. They were, in a word, mundane.

"You have no need to apologize, Sir Dy't B-taa. Arethil herself may be a monolith in all but the hands of the Great Sages and gods, but civilizations rise and fall like waves. The land is the same, but the landmarks are not quite right. I imagine that must be uncanny for you." Medja assured the man out of time. That glimmer in her eye shone as bright as ever. "I would take the chance to learn more of what you used to know of Amol-Kalit, given time. At your leisure, of course."

Meanwhile, the evening's meal had been set before them and some daft, young aristocrat gave protest to what was so graciously provided. Medja's eye twitched. In her time spent with Ashuanar she'd become accustomed to the dish; strange as it might have seemed to some, the regent had lived long enough to know that appearances often belied expectations. She sighed as the noble youth addressed her, more than familiar with the social obligations that would follow.

Gingerly, the regent picked the scorpion tail from its position on the plate.
"This is hardly an insult, child. It is a delicacy. But a small degree of finesse is all that is required to consume it properly." She chided the boy before gently sinking her teeth into the tail. Eyes closed, she chewed, swallowed, then pat her lips with a napkin. With a glint, her gaze turned to pierce the young noble, picking up her glass nonchalantly as she did. Most would know the danger that Medja of Ragash had faced; she was not one to be done in by a meal, no matter how poor the cupbearers. "Perhaps you should show your host and your regent Empress the respect they are owed."
 
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B-taa cleared his throat, willing his eyes to ever so slightly avert from the Empress Regent's... generous display. Somehow, he felt as though ogling the Regent would only land him in things far deeper than he was properly prepared for. It was beginning to seem as though all of the women he was working under in this Empire had beguiling looks on their side.

Despite the blatant show of turpitude on Medja's part, her words did well to enforce what he'd been told of her intelligence and perception. As soon as the swells of her breasts had pushed his gaze away, her words on the nature of civilization and Amol-Kalit, as she called it, drew his eyes back to hers just as quickly. It brought a smile to the bronze-skinned warriors lips, to hear such words of understanding, so aptly capturing his situation.

"The stories I was told of your way with words were not hyperbole, My Empress." Len had to restrain a laugh. "Your words are true. Once the shock of being brought back into the world wore off, I was not surprised to see my Kingdom had fallen. It is the nature of time itself."

It did not necessarily bring much peace to his heart, but the truth was indomitable. Len took a sip of the crystalline water before continuing. "As you say, much of the land is the same, albeit far more populous. My Kingdom laid claim over the entire expanse you call the Aberresai Savannah. Our Capital City was blessed by the Gods themselves, capable of moving from place to place at our command."

Pausing for a moment, Len can't help but ask.

"You danced often? That happens to be how I got my start. Performing was--"

Len's recounting of his time was interrupted by the indignant young noble so repugnantly throwing his meal in the face of their host. B-taa could only raise an unimpressed brow at the display of childishness, which increased to two brows when the noble instead attempted to direct the attention towards Medja and Himself.

Akt, Ntajah... What are you thinking, child?

Granted, Len likewise had little idea how to properly eat the dish that had been set before him either, but learning of customs had become an everyday occurrence in his life since swearing himself into the service of House Merira. The Grand Terios watched with amusement as his Empress deftly demonstrated the proper way of consuming the meal so graciously provided, and, as if to salt the wound, Len then copied Medja's actions with his own dish, finding it quite delicious.

"Oftentimes placing a burden into another's arms will leave it dropped on the ground and shattered." Len muttered, not quite loud enough for the noble to hear.
 
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A wave of barely stifled laughter rolled across the room as Medja politely stole the air from the young noble's sails. Then, as if on cue from Len, other nobles began to enjoy their meals, those unfamiliar with the dish following suit as best they could in technique. The boy, for his part, adopted a look of blushing shame as he quietly bowed his head to the regent, bid an apology to their host, then returned to trying to safely navigate the cooked scorpion he'd been sat with.

At last, Medja could return to far more entertaining matters: unraveling her plus one. She acknowledged the man's compliment with a tittering laugh once all was settled.
"Been delving the depths of my rumors, have we? I'm flattered, Sir B-taa." She smirked at him, pausing only to take a sip of her drink. "Of course, your history seems far more fascinating to me. Until recently, our neighbors in Elbion enjoyed the privileges that a floating city granted them, but never did the city of mages fly under its own power. Your Kingdom must have been splendorous indeed."

The drink left a sour aftertaste in her mouth, and her smile faltered.
"A pity that I was born into this world too late to witness it myself."

Without skipping a beat, Medja's eyes lit up as she flitted to the next subject.
"Indeed I did dance, dear warrior! One might be surprised at how far the practice can take someone, should they know how to exert their movements and presence properly. You simply must tell me more of your experience, of course!"
 
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There was little surprise that The Empress Regent took interest in his own history; It had, after all, occured in much of the land that she now laid claim to. What ruler wouldn't want to consult the lessons, treasures, and secrets of the distant past to better their current day kingdom? Medja's wonder towards the idea of a floating city, however, were met with a look of trepidation from the face of the Terios, who busied himself with another bite of his meal.

Yes, his people had been spectacular indeed. Discussing them in too much length however was not a task he wished to undertake. For as incredible as the Aberrant Kingdom had indeed been, so too did its collapse rival that of any other civilization before it. There were many details that B-taa could not recall, but that collapse... he remembered it all far too vividly, as well as the part he'd played in it.

"To show regret you were not born then is to express regret for being here today, and I think many would find that unlike you, Empress. No disrespect, but the past is past, and should remain so." He peered up at her, taking a sip of the crystal clear water that had been placed before him. "I do miss The Aberrant Kingdom, of course. Given my situation though, I must focus on the here and now. Longing for my past will not bring me anything but pain in this second chance that I have been given."

Admittedly, a second chance he hadn't asked for, and still was uncertain he truly wanted.

The topic of dancing, though, seemed to light an even brighter fire behind the Regent's eyes. Strange, Len had heard nothing in response to his inquiries to others about Medja being a dancer. Perhaps it was considered a topic not for discussion amongst those serving her? Len furrowed his brow, as she didn't seem perturbed by the question. Quite the opposite, leaning forward again and asking him what he knew of the art.

This, at least, he was happy to divulge.

"I wished to become an entertainer in my youth, and much enjoyed dancing in particular. The Kingdom was short on soldiers at the time though, and when saw my strength decided I was to become a warrior." There was the slightest hint of pain behind the memory, but it was a smudge of dirt remaining from what had been a black day in his life; the hurt had mostly faded. "Instead, I combined the two. In lieu of traditional training, I mastered the art of blade-dancing. I learned to slay foes as was required of me while still doing what I enjoyed most."

Len took another long drink of water, his growing smile visible through the clear liquid.

"I've found any foes I meet in this time are quite unprepared for that..."
 
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Len was guarded about his past, that much was clear. Perhaps it was pain or trauma, perhaps he just didn't wish for the right bit of information to fall into the wrong hands. Either way, it didn't matter. If the man out of time didn't want to discuss his lost life, then Medja would oblige that wish. Except...

To show regret you were not born then is to express regret for being here today

Medja quirked her head at this. She finished a bite of her meal and patted her lips with a cloth napkin.
"A curious assumption that I could not have enjoyed both, dear warrior. I think I'd preferred to have seen your Aberrant Kingdom, so that I might join you in reminiscing. Ah, but I hardly wish to drag the conversation down."
I wished to become an entertainer in my youth, and much enjoyed dancing in particular. The Kingdom was short on soldiers at the time though, and when saw my strength decided I was to become a warrior.

The regent smiled as she watched Len's enthusiasm return. It was a delight to listen to an interesting figure speak of a topic they were invested in. Especially so if that interest was shared.
"Combat and dancing are not often mixed in this era. A rare and certainly deadly talent, I'm sure. I would be delighted if you demonstrated for me at some point." She replied. Another bite, another drink, another smile.
 
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Len smiled over his drink, albeit somberly. For the Regent to have seen his Kingdom, she would have also seen it fall, and the collapse of what had been his home was a sight that haunted him even now, due in no small part to the role he played in said downfall. In the end, he had thrown himself onto his own blade over the guilt and regret of that terrible time.

Only to be brought back generations later, without a say in the matter.

"You may get the chance soon, Empress. My new Master, Ahti Merira... I'm sure you've been made aware of the tumultuous state her family has been thrust into. Her parents targeted politically, her own safety at risk being the sole heir to their name... Already I've had to fight off several who sought her head."

Ahti would likely have chastised him for referring to her as his Master. She much rather preferred to consider them an employee and employer, if not simply an equal man and woman. A fondess crosses over his face for a moment at the thought of the woman. Their meeting had been sudden, but they'd grown close quickly.

But his mind was wandering. Len shook his head and went about finishing his meal. It was rude to shy away from any topic the Empress wanted to discuss, and already he felt the weight of his welcome slipping from his shoulders, though it was doubtful Medja had truly taken offense.

"I must plead you educate me, Empress. This music and food, the lingering nobles and their guests. Is there a purpose behind this gathering? Forgive my ignorance, but I expected something more... grandiose. This setting is far more intimate than a feast."

His food and drink was running low, and now he was merely a newcomer to this world before one of its most powerful women. Without the pretext of a dinner, it was actually quite intimidating...
 
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Medja frowned slightly as she reached the bottom of her glass. 'Twas a tasty thing, but mostly ice. Even in the so-called "high class" venues they liked to overcharge and underserve, it seemed. Just one of many reasons Medja preferred her wines and meads to mixed drinks.

The regent glanced up from her glass at the mention of the term "master" and the name that followed. Curious and unfortunate. The blade dancer already had his allegiances, then. Her glass came to rest on the table with a soft *clink.*
"Ah, yes, I'm familiar with the name. It never ceases to amaze me how brazen some of the Kaliti nobles are with their 'political aggression.' Perhaps I should be thankful that my time as a dancer was not one characterized by such violence." Medja recalled, studying Len's expressions both visually and magically. The heart betrays all, and the little skips she could sense spoke volumes. A near imperceptible smirk began to form before Len changed the subject.

"I've wondered that myself. I had been led to believe that our kind host had some sort of point in drawing Annuakat's nobility to this place, but it seems he has been lost in pointless fripperies with their lot. An early exit might be in the near future, I should think." Emerald eyes bore into Len, curious, thoughtful. "You are, of course, welcome to join me."
 
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Len's focus was captivated once again, beyond any intimidation. It was an opportunity he'd not expected to present itself, the chance to pick the Empress' mind without prying eyes. In truth, there was much he wished to ask, and much to answer as well. This setting... the stage of some political dinner, it was no place for tongues to wag.

There were risks, of course. Len had not come this far by being passive. This strange, alluring, mysterious woman, this 'Medja'. She was not the same as the others he'd met in this new world, and he'd yet to put his finger on why. The nagging intuition that so often steered him right nagged him onward, insisting that this Regent held something he needed.

"I would much enjoy the chance to continue our conversations under a more private setting, Empress." Len placed his hands on the table, finished with this frivolous dinner. He met his Ruler's gaze. There was no reason to believe that she could be hidden from in any capacity. Likely she'd already made some deductions herself. "There are too many ears here, and I believe looser tongues could be achieved without them." They both wanted more out of the other, he was certain. Perhaps a transaction of information could be arranged? Surely they could work something out...

"And..." He bowed his head once more. "It would be an honor to accompany you further, of course."

He served the Merira name, but the Merira's served Medja in the grand scheme of things, and that made the Empress every bit as much his Master.
 
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The sorceress gently dabbed her lips with the cloth napkin that had been provided by the restaurant, tucked her silverware neatly beneath her plate, and raised her hand to signal for a waiter to attend her. She and the warrior were in agreement, then, and this outing would not have been a waste of time.

"Would that we were in Ragash. My tower would have been quite perfect a retreat for such an occasion," she remarked, checking to make sure that she had everything she'd come in with. Really there simply weren't enough portal stones on Arethil; the bloody Ceraki pirate-filth were privileged enough to have one but there couldn't have been a few in all of Amol-Kalit to build a city or two around? Absurd. "Oh well, my humble abode here in Annuakat will have to suffice."

Medja's simple geomantic magics began to work their way through the bangles on her arms and legs and once again the sorceress began to float. The attendant that first and finally came to her call would receive a simple explanation for her premature retreat, not that the Empress need explain herself.

"Please do tell our gracious host that I greatly enjoyed the event, but alas, a regent's work is never finished. I must retire early, I'm afraid. I bid you farewell," Medja concluded before eyeing Len with a curious smile. "Coming?"



In reality, Medja's Annuakat abode was hardly humble. A brief trek across town via chariot saw the duo to the regent's sizable home, an extravagant three story building not far from the Imperial Palace. She wasted no time in bringing Len inside once they'd arrived.
"Welcome to my home, dear warrior. It's no Emerald Tower, but the rooftop bath is...quaint, I suppose," Medja mused. The floors of the house, as well as their contents, were open to regent and guest alike. The Hidden Hands that escorted the sorceress remained outside at Medja's insistence. Len had wanted privacy, and privacy they would have.

"Well, Sir B-taa, you've managed to get me alone," Medja started with a smirk. She couldn't pass up the chance to tease the man. "If you wish to try your hand at assassination or seduction, now's your opportunity."
 
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"Ragash is a fine city. I've been privileged to call it my new home as of late, despite some its denizens seeing fit to try themself against my blade." Len spoke as Medja signaled their leave and explained the circumstances behind their departure to the attendant. He'd made his thoughts on the Imperial City known on the day he'd arrived. It was the closest thing to his home he'd seen without actually being his home.

It was as though the wonders he'd experienced in his youth lied too within Ragash. Sleeping, but alive beneath its streets. "Fruitlessly, of course." He added with a small smirk as he too rose from his seat to join the Regent. Bowing to the one who had served them and offering another to the other nobles who surrounded them, the Empress's display of her ability, however small, having earned them the gaze of many. Len stood straight and nodded towards his Empress. "Yes, let us depart."

As they exited the Sapphire Oasis, Len couldn't help but feel satisfied with the experience. Yes, it had been little more than a political picnic, but he finally felt he was beginning to grasp how this Empire, and this new world worked. Medja, with all her power, treated him not as an outlier, but as a new arrival to be welcomed with open arms. Of course, it likely helped that he was of such interesting origins, but it nevertheless spoke to her benevolence.



That the Empress could consider the large home she'd led him to 'quaint' was amusing, but not shocking or offensive to B-taa. He'd once served a Prince who'd found reason to complain about the size of his washroom in the Palace. A washroom that was about the size of the Oasis they'd just eaten at. Proportion and expectation shifted with power and wealth.

Still, he smirked at the comment, his eyes scanning the entryway and foyer with silent, but obvious admiration for the craftsmanship. "The Kingdom once attempted to placate overheated laborers with a rooftop communal bath, atop the tenements many of them lived within." The Warrior had a tendency to slide his eyes shut as he reminisced. "The complaints stopped quickly, but so too did our productivity."

He'd lamented about feeling as though he'd become a villain later in his life, but one day he'd definitely been loathed was when he'd been ordered to drag them out of that pool with his bare hands.

Of course, as much as there was to admire about her home, the Empress herself was just as beautiful and alluring as any of it, and she was well aware of that. She turned towards him, teasing him with options, giving him ideas, perhaps.

Len simply chuckled, walking closer to her and wiping the sand that had accumulated on his clothing.

"I'm afraid I'm only experienced in one of those options, and it's the one that would make me the enemy of an entire Empire." B-taa was in no hurry to be alone again, not when he'd finally began to scratch the surface. "No, you've been very open and kind to me, Empress. Given the circumstances, you needn't have gone out of your way to do so."

Len joined his hands behind his back, doing his best to look professional. Admittedly, it was difficult. Without the armor and the mask he'd worn for most of his life, he felt rather naked.

"That being the case, I figure the least I can do is tell you anything that you wish to know. I was tight-lipped at the Oasis, but such details are... troublesome to recall at times. I would rather be somewhere I can let down my guard. Somewhere I don't have to worry about being jumped."
 
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Medja hovered to a nearby bronze mannequin head and placed her headdress upon it. She sighed as she touched down, bare feet making what rare contact they ever did with the ground. Brushing a hand through the lush length of her locks, Medja cast her gaze towards Len with a rather casual smile.
"A little communal bathing can certainly do the body and soul right, dear warrior. Hundreds know I could certainly go for a dip about now. Though I can see the issue with your entire labor force getting...aha, distracted with it."

Though perhaps not known to the man out of time, he was witnessing a rare sight: the Empress Regent at nearly her most relaxed. She couldn't help but laugh softly at his response as well as his rigidity; he was a sidewinder out of the sand and he did very little to hide it. The sorceress closed the gap that Len had even further and looked up at him with a smirk, placing the fingertips of one hand on the man's chest.

"You needn't be so uptight here. I pride myself as a generous host, and my abodes are warded quite securely. I've seen to that," Medja assured the man before turning to walk towards the living room beyond the foyer, hips swaying with each step as she hooked a beckoning finger behind her for the warrior to follow. "We'll have plenty of time to talk, Sir B-taa. First things first: how can I help you relax? I keep a splendid stock of wines, meads, and treats. Ah, and of course, you are welcome to the bath."
 
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Len gave a smirk and a shrug at Medja's point toward the communal bath plan. It was a far more lighthearted memory among many far gruesomer recollections swirling about in his somewhat fractured mind. The Terios took his Regent's apparent comfort as a compliment. That she could feel at ease around him meant that he was fulfilling his duty. He was not the type to read any further into it than that.

"For a man of my stature, I imagine I looked somewhat awkward dragging the nude from the roof of a building in full armor." The bronze-skinned man paused, and brought a hand to his stubble. "I believe people in this time would refer to me as a 'buzzkill', if I'm getting my terminology correct?"

Medja chuckled lightly, and stepped forward to boldly close most of the gap between them, her hand reaching out to press her fingers softly against the surface of his broad chest. If she was attempting to break B-taa's composure, she did make him falter slightly, his eyes flittering down to her hand, running up the length of her arm before settling on her olive gaze.

Admittedly, it was somewhat challenging to keep his focus there.

"You needn't be so uptight here. I pride myself as a generous host, and my abodes are warded quite securely. I've seen to that,"

She turned and sashayed into the room in front of them, Len's attention pulling itself to more of the fine artistry of the place as he quickly followed. The Empress asked him to relax, but it was far from such a simple task. Len was wired this way, his mind tuned to be in the mindset of service at every moment. Relaxing on his own was difficult, let alone in the presence of his Empress.

"My apologies, Empress. I haven't had much chance to relax since I arrived, and I find myself rather predisposed to the contrary." Len muttered, eyes briefly meeting the back of her head as she led him... somewhere. "I will follow your recommendation. What do you suggest? We've only just eaten, of course. And I don't wish to take up too much of your time, I'll need to make accommodations for my lodging tonight."
 
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While perhaps a bit morbid, Medja couldn't help but giggle for a moment at the man-out-of-time's anecdote and the attempt at lingo that followed. Regardless of how the night turned out, she found herself enjoying his company, as well as getting to tease and toy with someone from another era.

"Yes, I'm certain all the kids are using it these days," she joked in reply as she walked around the backside of a bar kept in the living room. One of many, to be sure, as the entire home was lavishly furnished. Medja was ever the connoisseur; while her Annuakati home was not nearly as decked out as the Emerald Tower, it still had its fair share of her (much less important or unique) collection on display. Sculptures and paintings were abound, as well as the usual Ragashi cushion pile and lounging furniture.

The regent quickly found and presented a few glasses within the bar, followed by glass bottles, their glistening contents on display.

"Oh please, I've got delegates for a reason. I'm quite pleased to spend my free time this way, and you're more than welcome to lodge here. Hundreds know I've got more rooms in this place than I know what to do with."
An untrue statement; she did have plenty of rooms, but she was quite particular with what she stored and displayed in each. Beds were plenty regardless, as was privacy here, and that was all she wished to get across.

"As for suggestions, well...thanks to a certain drow friend of mine, I happen to own the widest and finest selection of meads and wines in Liadain. Ha, perhaps all of Arethil by now! If you haven't had the distinct privilege of sampling Ixchel mead yet, well...you might not miss home quite so much after this."
 
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It certainly seemed no amount of profuse professionalism was going to sway the Empress from trying to crack his shell. It was a concession Len silently made with a small chuckle to himself as the beautiful ruler sashayed behind the bar, producing a pair of glasses and a selection of drinks. Alcohol, no doubt. Len hadn't ever been much of a drinker, but the odd spirit wasn't beneath him.

Besides, all of this stonewalling her efforts to get him to warm up was beginning to feel a bit rude, even to him.

"You drive a hard bargain, Empress." Len's posture finally seemed to relax a bit as he stepped over to the bar, leaning on its surface and tilting his head up to meet her eyes. "Treat a man to dinner, take him home, and pour him drinks and a bath, maybe a soft bed... It makes it difficult for even me to look at you as though you're my Superior and not my lady of the evening." He stated bluntly, watching the colorful liquids as they sloshed about in their containers.

Had he been this thirsty a moment ago? Suddenly his lips felt rather dry...

"My Kingdom... we had an opposite problem." B-taa began, still watching the bottles. "We didn't know how to make friends. We conquered and pillaged and ruled, but there came a time when we were left without any allies." Eventually, he nodded towards a particular bottle of rich-looking mead, with a muttered 'please', before continuing. "No allies means no trade. No trade means no extra food coming in from outside the harshness of the Savannah, and wealthy though we were, you cannot eat gold..."
 
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"You drive a hard bargain, Empress."
Medja grinned.

"One does not get to my distinct position if one cannot," she teased, double entendre fully intended. She made no reply to the latter half of the blade-dancer's statement, only amplifying her ever smug expression. Instead, the sorceress simply poured the man a glass of the aforementioned mead, eyes locked on his and dimly glowing in the shade of the room.

"That is certainly a tragedy...I find myself blessed that our burgeoning Empire is at no lack for any of these. Be it wealth, resources, or allies, Amol-Kalit's stores are ever..." she leaned over the counter to slide the glass across to Len, keenly aware of the dress she still wore. "...bountiful."

Glass in place, Medja folded her arms beneath her and rested her upper body over the bar, simpering still.
"Enjoy, fair warrior."
 
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Len's brow seemed to quirk up at the suggestive comment, though not without a small smirk as he passed the drink across parted lips. It was cool against his tongue, but hot on his throat, just as any fine drink was. The ancient one's body seemed to shiver as the strong spirit hit his stomach, a sigh containing his stresses leaving his body.

"We did not learn our lesson. Instead, our desperation sent us down a darker path. Any other peoples we met were met not with diplomacy, but with the brunt of our might, so that they could be stripped of their food and water." The bitterness behind his words spoke that the Terios was not proud of those times, but he had been a warrior following orders. Victories though he had many, he would never claim he looked upon them all fondly.

"I was but a blade, and a blade cannot choose where it's wielder points it." Len took another sip, looking over the rim of the glass at Medja, and the rather generous display she was offering him, quite purposefully now. "I am grateful..." He sat his drink down before continuing, looking back at the emerald gaze bearing down on him, "That I have the chance to serve one who may allow me to be more."
 
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Wine, blood red, cascaded from a bottle into Medja's own glass. She joined Len in his first drink, eyes locked on his as the liquid rolled past her lips. A divine exhalation fled from her, satisfaction that only the finest of things could provide. She spoke on the plight he described.
"So your masters sowed wind and reaped the whirlwind. A sad, calamitous end to themselves and all they encountered. With short lives comes short sightedness, it seems."

The regent swirled the contents of her glass thoughtfully. Her expression hardened.
"But I suffer no such limitations; I have sown prosperity, and the Empire shall reap its bounty in spades. And you, Sir Len, will have the distinct privilege of bearing witness first hand to the contrast."

Another sip of wine and the moment of resolve gave way, and again Medja melted into a warm smile. Even still, her eyes burned like viridian flames as she looked at the blade-dancer.

"To be merely a tool...I would have you suffer no such indignity. You are free of your Aberrant Empire. Free to do, or serve, as you choose."
 
Len saw it then, in a brief flash almost invisible to the untrained eye. When Medja spoke of her Empire, of what it had to offer him and what its future held, her eyes lost that flirtatious sparkle and playful beckon. They became the eyes of an Empress, illuminating her face to dispel the shadows and reveal the fearsome woman behind the curtain.

It was that which drew him in more than any exposed bosom or double entendre.

"Indeed..." Whether he realized it or not, he nearly spoke in a purr as he drank more of his wine, its bitterness turning sweet the more he consumed. B-taa too felt some of his walls lower as they spoke. "What you have shown me is impressive, and this is but one city. I've no doubt the splendor of your Empire will shine ever-so-bright, perhaps outshining the sun that burns in my memories."

"To be merely a tool...I would have you suffer no such indignity. You are free of your Aberrant Empire. Free to do, or serve, as you choose."

A laugh came, somewhat bitter and tinged with an edge of darker emotion, something from deeper within him.

"I was free of the Aberrant before my demise, my dear Empress. In the end, it was not the endless war that killed my Kingdom. It was me."

In his last days, he had become the antithesis of what he had once been to his people. Instead of duty, honor, and loyalty, he had been fueled by rage, sorrow, and vengeance.

"When our ranks ran low, they sent the untrained into battle to make up the numbers. My lover, my parents were killed on the front lines in a senseless war. So I cut the head off the snake that I had served for so long."

Len raised the wine glass, his eyes foggy as he drank the remainder, recollection forming a dark cloud in his mind. It was not a past he enjoyed recounting, but as his Empress, it was one she deserved knowledge of.

"To kill one's own Master is, of course, the worst a weapon can do. When those who had sent my world to its demise lay dead at my feet, I took my own life as penance." Placing his glass gently down on the bar, a small smile on his lips grew. "imagine my horror when I awoke from death itself, centuries later."

There was a brief silence in the air, before he shook his head.

"Perhaps it is that mindest... that I am a tool to be used, that brought me to such lengths. I am yours, Empress. I choose to serve you. Not as a weapon, but as I am. Grand Terios of Aberrants."
 
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