The Goddess & The Empress: Beyond the Outer Rim

By Reiter Th'iaM

The corpse of the Empress' Champion is not yet cold in his grave when Valian Styrke – the man responsible for besting the Dreadnaught – is called upon to resolve a quest that will restore the Empress Pelania to her throne. While he is engaged with that task, his Order is responsible for keeping the Empress alive and securing the abandoned property of her family.
But don't forget… there is a divine creature that wishes to use the already burdened man against Fate herself. The Goddess Zorkaysha would have Valian tread through the Astral Realm to find and bring to her the Eye of Fate. She could care less if that means he has to go against the stride of life feared throughout the Rims.
This leaves our KnighT fighting on countless fronts while being stuck between The Goddess & The Empress…

"A venturesome sci-fi/fantasy novel for readers who really want their action set where no man has gone before." - Kirkus Reviews

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sylver Quill Press
• Release date: Sep 30, 2022
• ISBN: 9798215112786

Book preview

The Goddess

& The Empress

To My Questors: Past, Present & Future –

... Roll me a D30!

A

Novel

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© SylverQuill Press, 2022

Cover Art by: Madolyn Locke

Book Three of the

Beyond the Outer Rim

Prequel

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By Reiter

... dedicated to those who stand the watch.

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Though often presented in the most glorious and pristine condition, the status of the uniform pales in relation to the character of the soldier. Warriors, perpetually seeking peace, are the protectors of countless souls, forever embodying those traits that bring story-tellers to the stage. If one were to engage in a search for a greater courage, a more meaningful testament to dedication and sacrifice... one would only find another soldier.

We thank you for your service! This story is dedicated to those who dedicate themselves to sustaining our way of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. 

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Books One (Knights of the Inner Rim) & Two (Valian Styrke: Knight of Fate) of the Prelude to the Beyond the Outer Rim series are available online at all major retailers. A powerful, but not necessary, lead-in to Book One is available for FREE under the title One Last Errand.

Table of Contents

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Interlude

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Interlude

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Interlude

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Interlude

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Interlude

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Interlude

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-One

Chapter Thirty-Two

Chapter Thirty-Three

Chapter Thirty-Four

Interlude

Chapter Thirty-Five

Chapter Thirty-Six

Chapter Thirty-Seven

Chapter Thirty-Eight

Chapter Thirty-Nine

Chapter Forty

Chapter Forty-One

Chapter Forty-Two

Chapter Forty-Three

Chapter Forty-Four

Chapter Forty-Five

Epilogue

NOTE: Explaining Rims Time

With all of the things that can be divisive in this particular sector of space, it is good to know there is a constant upon which all can agree – the concept of marking time. Though the Chrono-Sages are found in Imperial Space, they are not considered citizens of the Empire. In fact, they are universally accepted and supported by every known civilization in The Rims.

We shall dodge the inclination to delve into more political details and definitions, and simply come to the more factual point – how to tell time in The Rims. One could come across an entry marked as such:

Rims Time: XI-4805.17

The Roman Numerals signify the number of centuries that have passed since the last Rim Event. According to the Chrono-Sages, the last major Rim Event was the declaration of the Inner Rim Empire Primus (often referred to as Primuson). The first two digits show the current year of that century. The next two digits show the month, and the numbers after the decimal place indicate the day of the month. So the above listing could be translated to:

May 17th, 1148

Each month in the Rims has thirty days. To be of further assistance, here is a listing of the months in a year of Rims Time:

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Janzur

Februsi

Lentmonzat

Aprilis

May

Mityar

Yorjunvis

Saxtilius

September

Octoryn

Novarsi

Entyar

Here’s a word of caution: keep an eye on the Rims Time stated. Not everything in this story happens in what you might consider to be chronological order. Sometimes, in order to more clearly see how to move forward, one must look back.

A house divided against itself cannot stand.

Abraham Lincoln

(I)

(Rims Time: XI-5407.20)

Lirtelzi walked into what was, for Vythe architecture, a relatively small chamber. She was clearly aggravated, anxious to contend with any and all responsible parties. The guards made sure to stay out of her way as she entered the office, turning about until she saw someone who would either receive her ire or tell her where she could specifically deliver it. She chose what she considered to be the best candidate. He was a reliable figure in the Vythe hierarchy, but Lirtelzi did not like the look in his eyes.

Constant Drovio Kulzul knew to expect Lirtelzi. Having recently heard of the events that had transpired on the proving grounds, it was certain that Lirtelzi was going to at the very least make an appearance. He hoped the guards ordered to remain in his office might stay her wrath, justified as it may have been.

I bid thee greetings, he said with a smile, getting up from his seat. Winds he had not detected took hold of his arms and pulled him back into his chair. He swallowed hard, seeing the same winds beginning to swirl around the powerful woman’s head.

Elemental Flux? he strained to speak, finding little air to breathe.

Life is full of mysteries, Lirtelzi said coldly as gusts of wind pinned the guards inside the office against the far wall. Spare me the pleasantries, Constant, she hissed, slowly approaching the elevated platform. Where is he?!

Kantren could feel healing energies being applied to his body and he laughed at the fact that he was still alive. Though he could not hear clearly, he could feel her approaching and it caused him to laugh a little harder.

It might be best... that she not... see me like this, he whispered, struggling to breathe. He knew he was swallowing his own blood, but it was better than choking on it.

Secure the door! one of the physicians ordered and a painful burst of laughter escaped from Kantren’s mouth as he lifted his hand.

No, don’t impede her! That will only serve to make matters worse.

Do as I say! the woman insisted with a sharp head gesture. She then moved quickly, taking hold of Kantren’s face to induce paralysis to his jaws. "And if this woman knows what is best for her, she will realize that this is my province!"

Stay your ground! the Assistant Healer said with supreme confidence. His hand came away from his side with the intent to touch Lirtelzi’s body and keep her from entering the chamber. The moment his flesh made contact with her shoulder he screamed. The wrenching pain of slow-process petrification was made that much worse as Lirtelzi made the transformation start from the inside of his body, growing to include his skin and clothing.

For your sake, I hope your footing was solid, she whispered, walking by the man. A fall in your current condition could be... shattering. Lirtelzi was not really speaking to the young man; she knew he could not hear her voice.

The problem with the moment was that it felt familiar, though it was something she had not experienced in quite some time. In fact, the last time she felt the sensation, she had been in Kantren’s position: a trainee, a student, and her Master was being disciplined. The man never recovered from his conditioning and Lirtelzi, as she stepped into the view of her Powerkin, prepared herself for the very worst.

Who do you th– the physician’s inquiry was interrupted by the arrival of a two-meter tall, four-armed behemoth that had seized her neck with its tail.

"I’ll make this simple, Lirtelzi projected to the creature. Serve me through this and you will win your freedom. Answer me not with your voice but with your actions." Lirtelzi did not blink at the sound of the physician’s neck snapping.

It would seem that one of you is in need of healing, Lirtelzi noted, looking at Kantren. Her eyes flared wide at the sight of his mangled body before they narrowed sharply, her threshold reflecting her anger. "There are three of you. One can go and see if they can keep the fop from the embrace of Lady Death. The other two will heal this man, and I mean at once! You will not treat him, forcing him to endure the pain. Use your so-called talents and restore him. Decide!"

I don’t care which of you works on Sokotta, Drammond said, shoving his colleagues away from his sides. "But stay out of my way!

Mistress, I did not know, he said as his threshold embraced him; an act that lifted the left eyebrow of the female Vythe SpellCasteR. I am new here, and thus was not given the authority to speak or act. For this you have my gratitude.

Kind words will not stay my hand should Kantren perish, she warned.

That will not happen, he said dismissively. "The wounds were not made by enchanted or empowered devices. But I can see seven distinct auras which visited harm upon this man.

You are restored! Drammond barked, sounding like he was giving Kantren a command.

"No, he is not speaking to Kantren, Lirtelzi thought, watching this Death-Tamer’s application of Healing MajiKs. ... but to his body! He is commanding it to return to its proper form. He is not healing the wounds... he is removing them... as if they never happened! Genius!"

Kantren sat up, looking a little dizzy for his troubles, and slightly fatigued. But he blinked his eyes as they looked upon his Mistress, and he nodded to signal to her not to destroy everyone here. Well, that was different. Just how did you achieve that?

Drammond started to speak, but recalled his place and the people present. Suddenly his knees buckled and he collapsed to the floor, prevented from reaching it by Lirtelzi’s ability. The Combashida flowing through her extended hand made a soft grab, catching the young Death-Tamer in mid-fall. A second gesture moved him to the bed Kantren had just left.

He wove a healing incantation, Lirtelzi noted. "It touched on the Time-Space Bridge, returning your body to its status before you were attacked."

Incredible, Kantren sighed with a furrowed brow.

To say the least, Lirtelzi said, slowly turning to the door of the chamber. How are you feeling?

Anxious! Kantren hissed as his eyes, mouth, and hands took on the signature of his considerable ability. Black light glowed at all four points, and black electricity shot through his hair.

Good, she smirked, adjusting her bracers. What is her name?

Issayeau, he replied. "Her name was Issayeau!"

Lovely name. I trust I could say the same about the rest of her?

I was fool enough to think I might have found a mate, Kantren whispered.

She was that good, eh? Lirtelzi remarked. You may kill her only on my command.

"Might I beg you not to extend that courtesy to anyone else, my Mistress, he groaned, feeling power beginning to flow into his threshold. I desperately need to kill something!"

Then do not play with your food, Lirtelzi said as three armoured Pankiors entered the corridor, about twenty meters from the door of the chamber. But also give fair warning to all.

That I can do! he hissed, slowly walking for the doorway.

Though she was no longer dying, the Death-Tamer that had been dismissed by Lirtelzi was still unconscious, and the physician who had rescued her somehow found the strength to move her out of the path between the patient and the doorway. The other medical technician had managed to do the same with the petrified nurse.

Kantren stepped out into the corridor and looked at what he could have been, what he would have been had his Mistress not recruited him. The Pankior Corps were charged with keeping order. Among the Vythe, that was no small matter. They were well-trained combatants and often gifted with the mastery of an Energy.

Kantren smirked, feeling that two of them had dedicated themselves to EnerJa while the third had just started discovering Chi.

I am Kantren, he stated in a voice that could not sound normal, distorted by power as it was, he still had not expected to hear the voice of his threshold. It spoke with him; its four voices joining his. I am a Powerkin, the sworn student of Mistress Lirtelzi. I was attacked by my own tonight... and I will have my revenge. The only question you must answer is simple. Of the innocents must I add to my tally before I am sated and rightfully avenged, how many of them will be you?

You do not have authority here, Powerkin, the center and most forward Pankior declared.

"And I do not recall asking for your permission!

Gribrot! he cried, clapping his hands together. A flash of black light covered the length of the corridor and quickly faded, leaving two of the Pankiors kneeling on the floor, struggling to remain conscious. "And that is what happens when the links to EnerJa are abruptly severed!

What say you, my dear? he asked of the only standing Pankior.

The man’s face twisted as he took in air to deliver a Power Shout. But something flew into his mouth, choking at the back of his throat. He put his hands to his neck when the seed he swallowed started growing out of his neck.

"The Seedling laconican, Lirtelzi noted, allowing her head to tilt to the side for a moment. And here I was expecting a planet-killing wave of Raw MannA."

Oh, do not think I am not ready to deliver that very thing, Mistress!

Perish the thought, she said, folding her arms. Still, that was masterfully done!

Kantren lunged forward, driving his fists into the faces of the hampered Pankiors. Their bodies flew back from the tremendous impact and both landed, their bodies remaining eerily still.

And there are two more whose lives depend on your skills, doctors, Lirtelzi notified. Come, Powerkin. Let us skip a step or three.

The two appeared in the middle of the proving grounds of the Spell Combat School, eleven bodies arriving in a circle around Lirtelzi and her protégé. Only two looked surprised to see Lirtelzi. She was not surprised at the one who spoke first.

Sister Lirtelzi? Kwofodian said, acknowledging the female Vythe before looking around the circle. He only needed to see two people before his frown of confusion became one of anger. Might I have a word with mine first?

Lirtelzi nodded toward the man. Take yours off these grounds, Brother.

Mistress! Kantren exclaimed with a whisper, nudging his head toward one female in particular.

Oh, so you’re Issayeau, Lirtelzi said, folding her arms. By the gods, child, you are indeed a wonder to the eyes! Brother–

She will be at your service momentarily! the bald and bearded Vythe huffed, glaring at the young woman. Won’t you, my little niece?!

Uncle!

Do not beckon unto me! Kwofodian roared, thunder rolling in behind his words as power flowed through his chest, flaring at his shoulders before moving down his arms. Am I wrong to assume that you’ve had something to do with this one?! he asked, pointing at Gnazaq.

I am not sure I like being referred to in such a voice, Gnazaq replied, looking at his nails. As Kantren was Lirtelzi’s protégé, so the tall and slender Gnazaq was the student of the Marquis Fyorgunn. What would my Master say?

Make the challenge then! Kwofodian suggested in a cool, horrifying voice. If not you, then go and fetch your Master. I will have words with him. I am not sure, but I do believe I can make amends with my offended Sister, denying her student his just vengeance.

And so I am guilty without even a hearing?

"What hearing?! Lirtelzi shouted. Your words are a filth that not even the cosmos can cleanse. Why would I bother taking them to the Eromzunn? It is a Terran trait that a race would set and strike against its own kind!"

And yet they won! Gnazaq cried. If they are so depraved, so weak, and so scattered, how is it that they bested us?! While you’re both trying to act as if you’re above me, answer me that!

We are under no obligation to answer anything to you, Gnazaq, Lirtelzi declared. You are an inferior who has forgotten his place. And perhaps that is the best answer to your inquiry; the one you stated with such emotion as to imply that taking on lesser attributes might somehow improve us as a people. Fortunately for you, delusion is not limited to the Terran bloods. But you forgot something... when the Terrans turn to their lesser traits it is typically after one of them has achieved the power not to be challenged. You hold no such position here.

You’ve managed to infect the minds of a few, Kwofodian noted, looking around. He was slightly relieved to find those who could not hold his gaze. At least they were ashamed of themselves. While that sentiment held there was hope they could be purified. "... but we will see if we can sweat your contagion from them.

Now, those begging for forgiveness can stand behind me. The rest will stand with Gnazaq.

Unh-uh, Kantren said, pointing at one young man in particular. Not you, backstabber! Not you! There is only one haven you might find this day... one mercy you might be given. And that will have to come from me!

The Master has spoken, the young man protested.

I was speaking on behalf of those that are not you, Kwofodian clarified. Take the place you have earned, and serve as an example to those who would dare challenge the station of a Master Vythe!

A slight smile formed on Lirtelzi’s face as she stepped forward, pointing at Gnazaq. Withdraw and I will do the same. Stand your ground and I will be all too happy to combine my efforts with my Powerkin’s.

Much to the surprise and fright of those who followed him, Gnazaq lowered his head, muttering, Yes, Mistress, back-pedaling to the wall of the proving grounds.

The floor is yours, Kantren, Lirtelzi whispered. Horrify me!

One school of thought is to concentrate on the message, another to fix your eye on the messenger. Find the balance between the two schools, or skip class altogether!  

Freund

(Rims Time: XI-5408.25)

The wind blew through Losarria’s shoulder-length, rust and forest green hair as her mount came through the clouds. She leaned forward toward the rhytoshar’s head as it kept its arms pressed against its sides, its flaps folded and tucked into the wings. Even its bladed tail was stretched out straight behind it, making the creature look like a bright red arrow in the sky. The young woman could barely hear the voice of her family over the wind, but they were cheering her on as she went for yet another record.

"Just thirty seconds more, she thought, reminded of why she should be keeping her mouth shut on these runs. Glatra is in rare form. I think she wants this more than I do. I should have expected that. She hates being cooped up for too long, and two months is too long!

Maybe she wants it too much, Losarria whispered as the last of the clouds moved from in front of her goggles. "I don’t have another thirty seconds of drop time in front of me!

Glatra! she called, pulling on the reins. The rhytoshar grumbled in response, but she kept her form. Glatra! GLATRA!!! The insistent tugs on the reins did nothing to move the creature’s head.

Fraljassar! the young woman spoke in an echoing chorus, slapping her glowing right hand to the side of the flying lizard. Red electrical bursts fired from the point of contact, and the diving creature was reminded of its rider. The coursing pain forced the lizard to release its flaps and open its wings. It cried out as Losarria wailed over the rooftops, pulling hard on the reins to guide the overly-ambitious creature.

Spirals, flips, barrel-rolls – and the application of clawed feet every now and then – and Losarria rode her mount through a series of building-dodges to where the rhytoshar was once again able to glide in open air. The young woman’s copper eyes closed as she sighed softly and slowly, thanking the goddess Zorkaysha for her deliverance. The cheers of her brothers reached her ears, and Losarria looked up to see them flying down to her. Above them, however, she could see her father and he was not the least bit pleased with what he had just witnessed.

If you’re quite done, Gryge, her father’s advisor, said in his normally grating, nasally-pinched, judgmental tone as he flew closer. Your father has business before the Emperor.

You make it sound as if what I did delayed him, Losarria returned. There’s the palace right there. We made it down in half the time.

Your father doesn’t require your recklessness or selfishness today, the skinny man snapped, glaring at Losarria through his narrowed brown eyes.

If my father can contend with the likes of you, Gryge, I’m, sure he can stand me to be in his presence, Losarria returned before turning her mount to fly toward the Imperial palace.

Some advisor, Gonzonn quipped as he rode by on his mount. The wings coming from the sides of his horse were a construct of his enchanted saddle – like most of the entourage now making their descent from the House ship – and was no match for Losarria’s speed or agility. ... forgetting that my sister is now of age and station. The first awarded to her by Time, and the other claimed through the application of skill and her passion to be her own person.

And of course that gives her license to address a member of my staff in any way she wishes, Ogonn U’Zali stated as he flew past the two.

Without putting too fine a point on it, Father... yes! And you would do well to remember that, Gryge.

I am beginning to think telling my first born that his first responsibility was his siblings might have been a mistake on my part, Ogonn commented.

"Only beginning to, Father?! Gonzonn chuckled, kicking his horse for more speed.  It leaned into the wind and accelerated in its descent. But let us not tarry. I can see a party has gathered on the deck. It seems we’re to have a reception before our meeting with the Emperor."

So it would seem, Ogonn said softly.

TrenGal Primuson was eager to be out of the chamber... or at least done with the Imperial matters on the schedule for the day. The sooner all such matters were behind him, the sooner things would begin their trek back to the norm. There was some doubt in the man’s mind that such a place was achievable, but TrenGal was ready for the effort to be initiated. Surely it would lead him, lead them, to a better place than where they were at the moment. Besides, his mind, heart, and body had already been given time to vociferate.

Pelania had weathered the treatment she received in the Odelree Dominion – though in truth, the Emperor believed the staff at the facility might have taken too much pleasure in ‘cleansing’ Pelania. Then again, perhaps they exceeded in the mistreatment of the woman simply to gauge the reaction of her husband.

The Emperor was not angry that she had taken a lover. From his perspective, she was in need of the practice of such activities, given her lack of endurance for what he considered sex. More than once he had found her capacities to be wanting.

It had been the execution of Luke Purdayn, the young Page, that had upset him. To lose a subject simply because she did not want it known she had engaged in an extra-marital relationship... Taking such an action demonstrated an unacceptable decision-making paradigm. For such an egregious error in logic and consideration, TrenGal had been more than happy to send his wife off for Reconditioning, despite the fact that now he felt he had been heavy-handed in the dispensing of her punishment.

"She weathered her disciplining without commentary, he considered. ... holding herself to a royal standard. There were even reports she ceased to have need for an escort to the treatment rooms. That she arrived before the technicians, already out of her robes and strapped into the machinery, demonstrating that the cleansing did not sever her connection with her threshold, as it is rumored the treatments make the flow of the Energies unbearable.

"Communiques she tried to send to young Purdayn’s family were intercepted. Years into her pseudo-exile and she is still unaware I reported Physician T’Gilbrun as the one who killed that boy. Her only crime, as far as the people know, was her taking a lover to our bed without my permission.

"But perhaps it is time to... TrenGal frowned, hearing a commotion just outside the doors of the Throne Room. Receive unexpected guests." The Emperor sighed, trying to get more comfortable in his seat.

His eyes shifted from the doors to his Court of Wisdom where his advisors stood. Unlike his predecessor, TrenGal did not place much faith in the wisdom of so-called advisors. As one of them came away from their station, the Emperor suppressed the urge to smirk.

Damn the message, he whispered, leaning over on the left armrest. Beware the messenger! Vizier Branthy.

Dogoro Branthy was a slender man who walked with a limp he gained from his service in the Imperial Militia. Inasmuch as his injury had come from the incompetence of a superior officer, the Throne had been quick to offer him his choice of service fields. He chose Administration, and was quickly befriended by the Lord of a House of Influence. TrenGal wondered how that particular affiliation played into what was happening at this moment.

Sire, it would appear that several Lords and Ladies have gathered together and, as a collective, request an audience regarding the Empress and her standing upon the Throne.

Is that the appearance of things, Vizier?

Yes, sire, Dogoro continued, ignoring the implication. And the master of the House U’Zali has amassed quite a gathering.

Ogonn U’Zali?! TrenGal whispered in surprise. "This is most unexpected.

"But only because I have been a fool, the Emperor thought. Why wouldn’t the Prime Executive Officer of the Tradaourmarc Corporation make the most of this length of time? With the number of times he’s come up short against New Eden Technologies, this is an excellent opportunity for him to gain ground. In the interests of the Empire, I cannot simply side with NET. There are enough arguments of bias with my wife, as the Empress, serving as the company’s PEO. Oh, TrenGal, you’ve grown old before your time to not see this coming!"

Yes, my liege. He is requesting an audience for the means of an official presentation.

And before the first word can be spoken, I am intrigued, TrenGal reflected. But why would— ah, perhaps it is best to ask him that myself, he decided. The audience is granted, if for nothing else than the satisfaction of my curiosity. And in saying such out loud, my mind is flooded with the sayings of the venerable and how they would advise me against taking such actions. What say you, Vizier?

Ordinarily, I would agree with the wisdom of our ancestors, my Emperor, Dogoro replied, giving a low bow.

But on this occasion... TrenGal smiled, awaiting the words he knew the man was going to say.

High Lord Ogonn is hardly a man who would waste your time, sire.

Now, that much is true! TrenGal exclaimed, rising from his chair. Let’s have him then.

Ogonn walked into the chamber with his amber eyes set on the Throne and the man who was the master of it. He walked with a mixture of confidence and purpose, a slight sway to his shoulders in-between his long strides where the hard heel of his fine boots clacked against the marble flooring.

"That’s it, you ambitious bastard, TrenGal thought, look solely at me. No one else is worthy of your gaze, are they?

"But wait, he thought, as the passage of time slowed and the focus of the Emperor’s senses increased tenfold. He allowed his eyes to take a second look at Ogonn’s entourage as his mind went back through what had been said. I see his children and a few attendants. Where are the several Lords and Ladies my so-called advisor spoke of? If they are not here, how does he know of them?

"Let us assume then that they are here, and represented by U’Zali. Their names and faces are kept from me so that I do not know his power in this situation. What sort of position is he looking to place me in?! And of course, this is all assuming that I am not in the midst of a trap; the ones coming after me are knowledgeable of their prey, proceeding with the hunt knowing what their quarry is thinking... what it will do when pressed.

"And I am therefore robbed of power, he concluded with his hold on the passage of time removed. I cannot move... not yet. The time is not yet ideal. Not yet ideal!

High Lord Ogonn U’Zali, the Emperor said in a booming voice and a bright smile.

Your Majesty, you have awarded this unworthy subject a portion of your time, Ogonn said with a very slight bow. I will endeavor to make the moment worthy of your graciousness.

And the House U’Zali has been an immeasurable credit to the Empire, TrenGal returned, saluting both the man and his station with the most available expediency. What is it that brings you from your toiling at Tradaourmarc only to illuminate the proceedings at this court?

An introduction, Your Majesty. If I may?

Proceed, High Lord.

Bring her forth! Ogonn commanded, stepping to his right and turning halfway to extend his left hand to his daughter who was already coming from the gathered entourage.

"I still don’t know why she couldn’t ride a mount, Losarria thought, trying her best not to look aggravated. From my viewpoint, she could use a bit of air! Then again, she wasn’t assembled to fascinate me!

Fraljassar! she muttered when she was half the distance to her father, thrusting her left hand forward.

A small disc landed on the floor, bearing the silver ten-pointed star that was the family crest, and flared to life with a yellow light when Losarria spoke her word of activation. After the subtle flaring of light, the small disc became a landing platform, already activated and receiving MannA directed at the stones under the surface. At first, it was a small dome of light, and Losarria put her eyes to Dogoro who was awaiting verification from the officer of the Royal Guard.

Scrutinizing MajiKs were applied to the platform to ensure whatever came through into the Throne Room would not be harmful to the Emperor. In a room that was beneath the Throne Room, several SpellCasteRs were treated to a view of what was teleporting into the chamber. It would not be long before the mill of rumors was in full production and distribution.

When the Lieutenant of the Royal Guard nodded her approval of the transmission to the Vizier, Dogoro did the same to Losarria, and she allowed the spell to continue as it had been intended.

The dome of light grew to where it was just over two meters tall, one and a half meters wide. The dome started to move to where it filled the entire platform and Ogonn stepped forward, augmenting his voice so that it would fill the room.

"Sire of the Stars, Master of the Inner Rim Empire, Wielder of the Sacred Light, you are the Father of Primuson and the rightful ruler of the greatest nation in The Rims. Sire, it is my highest honor to present to you, the courvarsia Rayloria Tynzano!"

Ogonn clapped his hands together, signaling a burst of electricity from the floor of the platform. When the flash of light faded, a tall, curvaceous woman was left in its place. A sunstone-studded collar with gleaming epaulettes rested on brown skin shoulders. Micro-thin chains of white gold hung from the epaulettes, richly studded with small gemstones that sparkled with emissions of several Energies, flowing down her body into a white gold belt. The chain then continued down the front of the woman along with panels of silver silk-like fabric. A tiara of the same white gold sat atop her head, worked into her thick, wavy, blonde hair. A broad cape of woven shadows hung down her back, the construct waving and rolling even though there was no wind to speak of. When she opened her eyes, the large sunstone in the center of her tiara fired with the same light that shone from her eyes. All three lights slowly faded, revealing that the woman’s eyes were the same color and texture as the sunstones.

Greetings, Your Majesty, the woman said in a soft, scratchy tone, a warm and welcoming smile spreading across her face. I am Rayloria. How can I serve you? Surely my Emperor has limits of splendor and discovery he is anxious to challenge!

I’m no savior, and I’m no Robin Hood.

J Balvin

(Rims Time: XI-5408.25)

Kethgeegan placed his hand on the crystalline reader and felt the MajiK of the realm move lightly over his body. He smiled at the fact that he could now feel such things, which had not been the case before the teachings of one particular HealeR.

"Must remember to thank Desh for his efforts, he thought. And perhaps I should... revisit my ambition to discuss with him the candor with which he administered his teachings. I am a thief... I simply wasn’t ready to be called one with such... conviction."

Good day to you, Counsel Arator, the entrance guard said, reading the results from the body scan. You are in good standing through your service to... the guard looked up from the monitor and over at her colleague before finishing with, the Ultimate Order.

"I have to congratulate Val on that name again, Kethgeegan thought. It’s absolutely hopeless, but so aggravating to all the right people!

Quite right, my good man, he said with a proud smile.

"So... you serve a pallid!"

Kethgeegan opened his mouth to speak but Annodia was quicker to the cause.

No, the KnighT we serve just happens to be pale of skin. The True KnighT we serve is that way, but it didn’t get in the way of him dispensing with the Commander of the Dreadnoughts! This man is his Counsel, she continued, gesturing toward Kethgeegan. "... and I was his Squire. Shall I demonstrate how I was able to attain and hold such a position? Or are you going to do your jobs without the commentary and attitude? Personally, I hope you choose the former. I haven’t had my time in the garden this week."

Your time in the garden?

Kethgeegan moved quickly, taking a soft hold of Annodia’s shoulder and ushering her to stand behind him.

I believe she was predicting her efforts to make a suitable flower arrangement over your grave, he said with a forced smile. A baseless assumption on her part, I might add, given how there’s every chance you’ll be cremated before you reach the mortician.

After his eyes narrowed, the guard entered the sequence to request more information on the people seeking entry into the Imperial palace as well as their Lord. Though he had heard the woman make the claim, he was not expecting to see the word ‘True’ in the man’s official title. For him, it defied reason. How could a pallid be a True KnighT of the Imperial Court?

Heading down a massive and very busy corridor, the two walked at what could only be called a heightened pace.

What do you think he was reading when his eyes widened like that? Annodia inquired.

Not anything about you or I, Kethgeegan replied, moving past another slow-moving group of people. He’s probably wondering what happened to the things he’s come to believe are facts.

"You mean you hope he’s wondering," Annodia said.

We cannot abandon hope, my sweet lady, he smiled back at her, making course corrections and maneuvering – without looking – past three more groups. So long as we survive, hope survives, and all things are still possible.

"And how much did the trip to MoGo change you?! she pondered. Valian is now a father, and there is a tangible difference to the other young man I found on the Test Tower and grew up with on the Jhormynn Estate."

If there’s anything you want to ask me, feel free to voice it, Kethgeegan said softly, taking hold of her hand. We’re siblings and a good notch more, you and I. The last thing I mean to do is keep secrets from you.

"From me?"

Oh, it’s my job to keep secrets from Val! he exclaimed, and the two of them shared a laugh as Annodia squeezed his hand. The two locked eyes with one another, trading silent assurances before releasing each other’s grasp.

Thank you for saying that, Keth. I appreciate it.

Indeed. Now... are we prepared to go and do something we really don’t want to do? He asked, almost rhetorically.

Almost, she laughed. Aye, Annodia sighed in disgust, shaking her head in disbelief. To be in the service of a True KnighT.

Oh, let us not blame the entire community for the viewpoints and actions of the one we hold near and dear! Kethgeegan argued. Valian Styrke would be unique no matter what field of service he found himself dedicated to.

Wouldn’t he just?

TrenGal smiled, rubbing his chin as he looked at the woman who had been brought before his throne. Ambitions, he chuckled. You speak of ambitions. In truth, it is not an outlandish claim you make. ‘It is said a man without ambition is dead’.

Pearl Bailey, Old Earth, Rayloria noted with a slight smile and nod of her head. And the teachings of Levantay warn us to not misalign our ambitions. Persistence which eventually yields our own destruction is not a coveted attribute.

And how am I to know that his will not eventually lead to my own destruction? TrenGal questioned, more interested in how the woman would speak over what she might say.

You are the light of the Empire, but that even you cannot see, she said in a very confident tone. We must first trust before we can verify.

Must, eh? he questioned. You may not believe this, but I remember you.

Your Majesty?

When it was first announced to the realm that I would be taking a wife, you attended a function where you were presented to the Grand Vizier. K’Dossi, now retired, mentioned you... more than once. He ultimately suggested that we pass on your continuance... due to the presence of a rival suitor.

A ploy my father thought would increase my value in your eyes, Rayloria shared. And it would appear that it had the exact opposite effect.

According to K’Dossi, any hint of indecision on your part made you unworthy of my attention.

Far be it from anyone to question the venerable font of wisdom and foresight, Ogonn asserted. Let us simply say for that moment in time he was, once again, quite correct. No one is suggesting that Pelania has not been of service to our Emperor, but perhaps this has come to pass to allow our most cherished monarch to explore other avenues. Only Your Majesty can say whether this would be an improvement, and that is not something anyone outside of your most intimate circles needs to know. But, if memory serves, Pelania has yet to stand the Trials of MannA. Raylaria has already exceeded those qualifications!

Exceeded?! TrenGal repeated, obviously surprised to hear of the accolade. That is quite impressive!

If it was questioned in the past, however rightfully so, of my conviction to be of service to my Emperor... let there be no mistaking my... ambition, here and now. Raylaria said, a twinkle escaping from her eye as she batted both of them.

No... no mistaking that.

Let us hope error is something not seen in this grand chamber! Kethgeegan boomed as he pushed his way past the guards at the door. And if it must be seen, let it be in small quantities with little to no damage inflicted on those welcomed to stand before the Light of Primuson!

How is it you aren’t counted in that number? Ogonn asked. Given that the house you serve–

And our High Lord goes and brings error before us, Kethgeegan asserted. "... if only to serve as a means for me to demonstrate how menial his faux pas will be.

Yes, Vaiyorl was arrested as a traitor to the Throne! he announced, walking in a large circle as he spoke. "The charge was never tried, and therefore it cannot be presented as fact or law. But I will remind all who have forgotten who it was that arrested the former Duke. It was the retainer of an Imperial KnighT, a True KnighT, whose service has never been called into question... unless his lordship wishes to make said claim here and now. If not, I will ask that the second-tier corporate man remain out of first-tier knightly affairs."

How dare you! Ogonn barked.

Standing downwind of you, I feel moved to make the same inquiry. Who knew blind arrogance possessed such a malodor!

I will have your–

Pelania is the Empress! Kethgeegan barked in a voice that surprised everyone present who did not know him. The only one who may dare to say otherwise is our beloved Emperor. And I will remind you that he has not put forth words of any shade to that effect.

Not that it matters, traitorous whelp! Ogonn huffed.

Oh? TrenGal inquired but went mostly unheard.

The position of the Empress has been challenged! Ogonn declared.

Now we’re talking! Kethgeegan replied, turning to step closer to the High Lord. "That’s just my man’s game! State your challenge and your right to make it, if you dare!"

"The moment the Emperor found any fault in Pelania, her position of Imperial Immunity was forfeit! the High Lord spat. Her worth is no longer measured as an Imperial standard, and she must be able to stand as a sole entity, unsupported by the Throne.

And, as High Lord, I am well within my right to both question her worth and remove her, should she prove any measure of threat to my Emperor. This collective of seven Houses of Influence stands with me in this declaration!

"In case you haven’t noticed, the Master of my Order is more enthused when he has to face more than one opponent at a time. But as Counsel to a Tournament Champion and a vindicated Defender of the Realm, I demand you divulge this list of houses at once. As for her worth and threat level against the Emperor, the Ultimate Order pledges itself to support the former and destroy the latter.

And unless the standard of manly perfection says otherwise, we will take our leave of thy sacred presence, Kethgeegan said, bowing to TrenGal. The Emperor could not keep from smirking at the choice of words, the hilarity of the statement, and the rhythm with which both representatives moved together in their salute to his station.

You may take your leave, Counsel, he said, waving them off.

Your Majesty, Annodia and Kethgeegan said together as they stood at the same time. They turned at the same time and, starting with the right foot, marched in the same gait on their way out of the room.

Well, it can be said that not every visitor comes and goes in such fashion, TrenGal started, getting up from his seat. Lady Raylaria, you are invited to remain with us for the moment. There is a challenge about and before any decisions can be made, I would like to know if there is an Empress to consider.

Your Majesty, the woman purred with a graceful bow.

"High Lord... while it is not out of my place to say, these words seldom pass from my lips in this order. My friend, you have been too long away from court. You have just been schooled by one we would have assumed was a simple student before today. But he did not make an error, and any error that was made failed to impact this throne. Be sure to see to his directives immediately.

"How this worm has turned, TrenGal thought, turning to take his leave. Wife... the one you sought to destroy has just come to your rescue – and suddenly this young, pale warrior moves with the wisdom of the Council of Viziers.

"Your house has spies, Ogonn, the Emperor concluded. It is the only way to explain how Valian Styrke saw this coming. Either that, or a damn fine Seer, which I now recall him knowing. I wonder, High Lord Ogonn, if in the midst of your outrage you can see that?" 

TrenGal laughed as he walked. "And now, I am in the debt of a pallid! The next few strides saw the erosion of the man’s smile as his eyes narrowed. And I am being moved upon by seven Houses of Influence. No, TrenGal, old boy, that is no laughing matter. And thanks to the razor-sharp tongue of Valian’s Counsel, I not only know the number of Houses involved in this plot, but two have been identified.

"Of course, the House U’Zali is an obvious reveal, the Emperor concluded. But when I consider who announced Ogonn, I recall that it was the House Varclaire who sponsored Branthy’s appointment to my Council of Viziers; an obvious pre-emptive strike.

And to think, it has often been assumed that the House Jhormynn was weak at the Game of Court, TrenGal whispered as he walked. "It would seem that illusion and misdirection has been a fulcrum of power the House has been using since before they acquired a True KnighT. And to that end, I am going to purchase myself some good will.

Take an Imperial directive to the Minister of Affairs, he said aloud, and was immediately flanked by a small floating platform holding an enchanted gem. The base of the platform changed to show a glowing Primuson Star, signifying its importance. "Unless formal charges are issued before the end of this day, I hereby order all investigations into the House Jhormynn to be immediately disengaged. As Duchess Guysorla has already made an official request, the Throne once again recognizes the Duchy of Calrios as a boon to the Empire.

We will leave the matter of First Seat resolution to the House itself, TrenGal quickly added. "It is an internal matter, but let it be known that the Emperor supports both the Proxy Pirion Jhormynn and Young Lady Shonsatah Jhormynn in their aims to stand as the leader of their noble House. End of directive. An immediate response from the Minister of Affairs is so ordered." The platform whisked away in the opposite direction in its search to find the Minister of Affairs. TrenGal smiled, thinking of all the faces the noted Imperial servant would make before following the orders he had been given.

**  b  ***  t  ***  o  ***  r  **

So... ‘more enthused when he has to take on more than one opponent at a time’, eh? Annodia asked as she walked beside Kethgeegan. Both of them were at a near jogging pace, making their way back to the pad where their transport awaited.

Couldn’t help myself, Kethgeegan admitted.

Clearly.

The KnighT Counsel chuckled, shaking his head. Actually, we needed him to stay mad, distracted. He lifted his arm as they walked, keying in a request for a channel to Lady Gilestra DuZurne. "Old man was about to explode, having some young upstart standing in his face, most disrespectfully, and actually making points on him and his all-powerful collective.

Well, he did stay mad, Kethgeegan declared. "And because of his blunder, we came away with more than what I thought we’d be able to get out of him. I’m sure the other House Masters are planning a very warm reception for him right about now."

The risks we take, right? she sighed.

Why do you think I was good with you coming along? Kethgeegan questioned. Sure, it was nice being able to catch up and remind ourselves what we mean to each other, but you’ve had your chin tested guarding Vaiyorl and jaunting about in MoGo. The last thing I needed was to be with someone whose face might register surprise or try to clear their throat to get my attention. It would’ve weakened my position, destroyed any chance of me frustrating the High Lord.

"And