Post by EmperorMyric on Dec 28, 2023 12:09:28 GMT
End of the Line Flagship Golden Runner
It had been days.
And so much had changed. What was to be such a small job to retrieve a family heirloom had turned into a dark rabbit hole surrounding both truth and painful revelations. The End of the Line twins were the true heirs to the Vaplanan throne, children of the legendary Queen Ismini and Pirate king Lu Xaobo. It had changed everything, and yet upon the cusp of retrieving the item, now in possession of the twins, they had captured the group.
Now aboard the EOTL vessel, the flagship, they had done little more than wait.
Not that they could complain entirely of course, the rooms that the Vaplanans, Ke’Thulians and Network representative had been given were absolutely luxurious. Gilded walls, luscious furniture and beautiful artwork adorned the state rooms with them each having their own sets of just as comfortable bedrooms. All had window apertures which allowed a good view to the depths of space outside, and a group of End of the Line soldiers delivered them meals everyday which had been clearly cooked by fine chefs giving them explosions of taste and texture.
They were being treated like royalty despite their situation, and every question of when the Twins would meet with them proper had been met with the same response.
“The twins are very busy at the moment they will get to you as soon as they can”
The End of the Line vessel had quickly left Lostern, travelling in FTL for a period until once more they had dropped out into real space. The tell-tale golden glow of the expanse was visible from the viewing window and judging by the travel time they were nearing their expected destination.
This time the door to the rooms opened, and a soldier stood calmly.
“The twins will see you in approximately an hour, be well dressed and ready by then”
Delaith pondered and waited.
As many many times before.
There... hadn't really been anything else to do, though he was used to be patient.
Whilst dining on the pirate vessel had certainly been an interesting experience, it was not like he actually needed to eat, it was more to remain a convincing 'human'.
He himself hadn't taken any guards with him, as they would've been disarmed anyways and as such would've been only additional bodies he'd have to take care of.
The twins hadn't shown themselves and their guards were not particularly talkative.
Lastly, the escort ships which had been following them in silence have kept him company though, judging by their presumed destination and the golden glow of the expanse... that would not be the case anymore soon. He would have to leave them behind.
Deralith pondered and at last, the waiting reached its end.
He looked over himself. By all means and purposes his uniform was still in excellent shape, though he suspected it was not what they considered 'well dressed'.
As such, he began his search for anything that may count as such in the room.
Maybe he would find a fine suit or something alike.
Ok'ta'yu was a bit aggravated, to say the least. He had come here for a simple retrieval mission, and had gotten caught up with damned pirates and heritage for nations he had never met outside of this. While he was intrigued at the history, he longed to go home and see Kel'thul again.
No matter, he had told himself many a time on his wait. He'd just have to wait. The guards had been very quiet towards them all, and nothing had been heard from the twins for a while. His trio of men that had been with him on the mission too were sick of the predicament they were stuck in. Thankfully, the respirating masks they had were able to easily recycle carbon dioxide from the atmosphere of the vessel they were being held on, of which he noted arrived near the golden expanse.
When the guard slipped in, ok' bowed his head slightly and let out a deep sigh. Well dressed, he decided, was befitting of the command robes he had changed out of and put up over the days, not wanting it to get dirtied. He quickly pulled it on, then took a seat, waiting.
The group of mercenaries that had accompanied Quin, while not actually Vaplanan, certainly had gotten used to their way of life while doing so much work for them. Even so, they had never seen luxury quite like this. They did not complain at all about their predicament, in fact, they were rather cheery considering the circumstances. But they did worry a little for their boss. They had not actually seen Quin since he had been escorted to his quarters on the first day aboard. That, they knew, was rather unusual for the normally social Vaplanan.
In fact, Quin was not in a good way. With nothing else to do, all he had done for the past few days was think. So much so that he had gotten swallowed into a darkness that he never knew lurked beneath. He sat beside his cabin window and stared blankly out into the faint golden glow of the expanse, cradling a small brooch in his hands. It was a dried cluster of lavender, hand crafted for him by his Queen and delivered by his sister. He did not deserve to be gifted such a treasure. He had failed miserably in his mission and had dragged his comrades down with him. All he could think of now was Queen Fidelia’s disappointed face if he ever returned home without the necklace or anything else worthy of presenting to her, and his sister’s pitying pat on the shoulder. Both images broke his heart. He wanted so badly to return home, but he also could not bear the thought of disappointing those he loved so dearly.
His downward mental spiral was cut short when the guard announced the twin’s intention to finally sit down and talk with him. He took another look at his brooch and a small spark ignited in his soul. This could be the beginning of his redemption if he grasped the opportunity and trod carefully! With a new determination, he rose and began to ready himself for the meeting, taking care of his appearance for the first time since he was escorted on board. On the way out of his rooms, he hesitated one last time, debating whether to return his brooch to his pocket or pin it to his Royal Guard Uniform. It would be a statement either way, but which would serve him better?
It was time to leave lest he be late, he could ponder on it no longer. He decided upfront honesty would serve him well, and so pinned the brooch to his uniform, displaying his Queen’s symbol with pride.
The hour passed relatively quickly, given the views outside rapidly changed. Anyone could tell they were near the expanse, but the strange glowing blackness and white lights which shifted and changed almost like a living sponge was something not many got to see in person. The Black Threshold, a legendary piece of spacetime disturbance which was almost impossible to navigate, never follow the lights they always said. And still the stars and glow of the expanse disappeared to be swallowed into the darkness as they dove in. Many knew that End of the Line and other pirate bands operated out of the Threshold, it was hard to enter let alone navigate to a specific destination and survive. This had been perfect when the pirate houses had collapsed into civil war and been expelled from their rightful home of Lost Star. And now it served as the home of their second attempt at building such a location, also dubbed End of the Line.
Slowly the blackness and strange white lights disappeared, being replaced with yet more glow from the expanse, as the ship came in at an angle it became clear. The huge station before them, End of the Line was indeed their destination.
As the hour mark reached its limit the guards came for them again, beckoning them to follow.
The inside of the ship was remarkably well kept but then End of the Line had always been prided in maintaining a professional standard among its pirate clades. It was what allowed them to take on much more powerful foes and get results when under pressure. Being taken through corridors and up lifts they finally arrived at what appeared to be a large observation deck. It was spacious and seemed off-putting by the fact it was circular, with the floor being the same as the ceiling, all were holographic panels projecting the space around the ship.
Lu Xun sat at a table in the centre of such a room, his sister Lu Xiang nowhere to be seen. He beckoned for them to take seats; some wine had been placed which he was pouring out.
“Welcome, sorry for the delay our matters take up a great deal of time. I have no doubt you have some questions, and I have my own, let us converse like adults, yes?” The guards took positions around the table to keep watch.
Delaith sat at the table in silence and decided he would remain that way for the time being.
There were others which could likely ask considerably more interesting questions than he himself. He simply nodded in return and answered.
"I see no issue with that."
After all, remaining professional was the least thing he could do in this situation, be it only to calm his co-prisoners.
He took a brief glance at the guards, likely some sort of loyalists, he guessed, with all sorts of concealed weapons. In the end they weren't here to stop them from escaping but rather to protect their leaders, there was not really anywhere to go anyways, considering where they were.
As for himself, in his brief search through the room he had been given for the time of their stay, he had found what looked like an old ceremonial Captains uniform of unknown affiliation and figured it would likely get as close to 'well dressed' as he could get.
With mild interest he looked around the room, searching for anything that would be of interest, whilst waiting for the others to ask their questions.
Around the table sat Oktayu and his soldiers, his men, mostly in silence. Ok' himself was avoiding speaking, for the time being, but one of his soldiers, a phytop by the name of Yu'Ka'Ti, spoke up quickly, in a restrained, annoyed tone of voice.
"How long will you be keeping us here?" she said to the present twin, a rhetorical question, as she already knew the answer.
Before Ok' himself could speak up to calm the soldiers, a Subphylum of the name Lu'Ka'Ra chimes in, asking another question.
"And how have you kept our governments from hunting for us," he said, trying to avoid sounding confrontational, wording it in a way that sounds concerned, "because surely they would have come for us, despite us having come here somewhat willingly."
Finally Ok' got word in, speaking mostly towards his own.
"Please, try not to bombard our host with questions, especially ones im sure he planned on answering in due time.."
Lu' simply nodded and sat back, looking towards Ok'. Meanwhile, Yu' scoffed and sat back, looking at Ok' for only a moment moment before turning her eyes towards the twin, a silent fire in her expression, her glowing orange eyes looking into Lu Xun's own eyes, waiting for the answer.
Quin was the last of the guests to arrive at the table, only two of his mercenaries at his side. He strode in being sure to look as if he was confident as ever, although he was sure the others had all heard about his absence before now. But still, he needed to look as put-together as possible to even stand a chance of dealing with this sticky situation with the grace expected of him. He was Vaplana’s only representative, after all, and these conversations could make or break his Queen’s reign.
“I’d like to begin by thanking you for your hospitality, Lu Xun. Under the circumstances I was expecting… Well, I’m not entirely sure what I was expecting actually, but it was certainly not this. I suppose the most pressing question on my mind is what you would like from me and my country.” Quin paused for a moment, before finally deciding to tackle the metaphorical elephant in the room. Best get it over with. “Will you be pursuing your claim to Vaplana’s throne? As much as I am willing to help you achieve your goals, I feel it necessary to also state that I am loyal to Queen Fidelia. I hope that we can resolve this peacefully. I would also like to clarify that my colleagues here are just that, colleagues for one mission. They have no connections to my homeland, so if they agree I would like to petition you to not hold them here against their will.”
Quin turned his attention to both Delaith and Ok’. “Although by now I have become rather accustomed to your company, so if you wish to stay and act as a neutral third party in this matter I would be very grateful.”
Despite the gorgeous views of outside space inside the room it did not take Delaith long to spot the small panel lines where each of the photoreactive cells creating the affect had been place, revealing the room to be fairly large with a circular roof. Lu Xun himself noticed the individual looking around in detail and the uniform he wore and merely smiled. The pirate was a handsome man, thin but well built with a fine cut face and beautiful oriental eyes, just like his mother. His golden tanned skin was just like his father as was his short black hair.
“No, no its quite alright” Lu Xun finally waved a hand to Ok’ and his men “Ill answer. I plan on keeping you here until something can be worked out, I get the information I want, and things are all resolved. If there is any luck that should be shortly. As for your governments… Well, we haven’t issued any ransom, and no state forces are insane enough to try tangle with End of the Line or come here and make a fool of themselves. I am afraid nobody is coming, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be let go” He smiled. Finally turning to Quin who sat down. His eyes clearly interested.
“You were expecting me to treat you like a usurper and to shoot you. My sister sure believes that, in fact she argued to kill you vehemently, but she isn’t here. She takes the loss of our mother and our heritage rather personally. You see, father used to tell us stories as children about the beauties of Vaplana, told us about mother and how we would all get to be one again in a gorgeous home as royalty.” He sighed.
“That never transpired as your aware. When father died, my sister clung onto that pain. I treat you with hospitality because that is what your old queen did, my mother, she is the one who made that integral to End of the Line. Be courteous, but devastating, that’s what father used to say.” He finally stood up and paced a few steps.
“That has yet to be seen honestly. My sister wants the throne, I myself would like to at least see where our mother lived. I am very aware your loyal to the current Queen, poor Fidelia has no idea of the truth, but then your society never did well with change. If you are willing to resolve this peacefully, and if your homeland is too then I do not see why we cannot formally talk. With your queen that is. As for the others… I agree, they may choose to leave, if so I will have them transfer to another ship and wait for pick up outside the Threshold”
Delaith stopped his observing and instead focused on Lu Xun now. He had no intention of leaving quite yet, there were too many questions unanswered and too many loose ends.
His behaviour seemed to be rather professional for a pirate, though that was only one of the many things that varied from the norm. He seemed to be considerably more... amicable than his sister, both in word and action. It was somewhat ironic he mentioned nobody would come for them as Delaith himself had ordered his ships to stay behind.
Though there was a question remaining which had piqued his curiosity since the mission had started, not too long ago.
"Out of curiosity, if I may ask, how does the amulet play into this? Is it something you required? Or just a trinket you or your sister wished to retrieve?"
He did not expect a fully detailed or honest answer, nor that the pirate knew what he may potentially be in his possession now, though it was still worth asking, if just to see how he would react.
Ok'ta'yu loosened up and sighed, rolling his shoulders back in an attempt to keep his posture straight. He didnt want to leave Quin and possibly even Delaith alone, but his soldiers, they were itching to go home. He was glad however at the hospitality of this pirate, in the offer to let some go, and piqued a question from his mandibles.
"Could i send my soldiers home without me?" he asked, pondering as he looked towards the private in particular. "I shall stay here by Quinlan and Delaith's side, but I cannot bring myself to force them to stay, as they had been dragged into this unnecessarily by myself."
Quin’s stomach dropped a little when he was told nobody was coming. He had imagined in his wildest dreams that Fidelia had sent a force after him when he lost contact, but he knew deep down that was merely fantasy. She was surely far too occupied with the political fallout from her assassination attempt and the surrounding mess to keep close tabs on him, and especially now that he was being held by pirates. The truth had always been cold and unforgiving. He, of course, was happy that his colleagues would have the option of leaving if they wished, but he knew that offer did not apply to him. He was in this until the end, voluntarily or otherwise.
“Your sister’s actions are understandable, such loss must be unbearable. You both have all of my sympathies. Although I do hope that she can see past the anger in due time and begin to heal, for all our sakes…” Quin trailed off, trying not to vividly imagine exactly what Lu Xiang had wanted to do to him, or what she may yet do. He was certainly glad that he was dealing with her brother, but he knew he couldn’t avoid her forever.
“As to your wishes, we both know I cannot guarantee much until I have had the opportunity to inform my Queen about, well… everything. But I can say for sure that she will definitely want to see you both. She is an advocate for peaceful resolutions and negotiation, so I can practically guarantee that you will have your wish, Lu Xun. You will get to see Vaplana, and hopefully, it will be soon. Probably not in time before the Aymer festival wraps up, which is unfortunate since it is a wonderful experience that Queen Ismini was known to enjoy.”
Lu Xun smiled as he turned to Delaith, he carefully undid the necklace and placed it onto the table for them all to see up close. Its white iridescent sheen was almost rainbow like, the flat and matte white seemed to shine in the light and the golden created an almost ripple life effect over its star pendant.
“Its only fair I show and tell you, after all this little one is why your all here now. This pendant was found by my father in the Golden Expanse. He gave it to my mother when he proposed, or so he says. She used to wear it as a good luck charm, when I heard that it was not in a museum at the very least but being actively worn by a nobody, I got it back. It also holds great power in EOTL, it’s a symbol of unity, important to our station. Some even say it’s a key to some ancient hold in the Expanse, haven’t found any useful intelligence on that though” He finally looked up at Ok’ta’yu and nodded.
“Of course. Anyone who wishes to leave that has no business here may do so. After we talk, I will direct my men to escort you to a shuttle and take you to the edge of the Threshold where you can be safely picked up.” He sighed finally after Quinlan spoke. His eyes belayed that of someone who had experienced the woes of the galaxy and knew that Quinlan had yet to see such for himself.
“I too hope she can see sense for all our sakes. As for seeing your queen… Quinlan, you are aware that our very existence is a stain on your nation’s history, I will not refuse an audience with Queen Fidelia, quite the opposite but I need you to know that we will be targets. We will try to be killed, and if you think that couldn’t happen, please, these families were willing to go to war with my father and the entire pirate forces of the galaxy over our mother. They won’t allow a rogue variable like me and my sister to survive a visit.” He ran a hand through his hair.
“I will go, I will visit my mothers’ home. But I want some of our terms as well. I want our own forces to protect us. Layak” Lu Xun called for the man to enter.
“This is Layak, he is one of our force commanders, I want him and a detachment of our soldiers to defend us”
Layak was not what most might expect of a pirate. A loyal guardian, a powerful warrior yes. But what the average pirate usually looked like? No, definitely not. What came through the doorway was a nine foot tall metal man. Thick armored legs, torso, and arms. His head engrained slightly into his shoulders. He looked more like an exotic war machine than your average robot. He had to both duck, and turn his body sideways to get through the doorway. His armoring was a stark vantablack, almost sucking in the light near him, but parts of him offset in EOTL colors as accents, and linings. The thing was utterly massive, and armored to the point it was more of a burden to walking, than it was even practical. While he had ingrained weapons in his right gauntlet it was mostly non-lethal options for dealing with rowdy crew. His left gauntlet was far more bulky as it extended into a shield. For extraction of VIPs. His actual hands were currently his only weapons.
The head was equally as well armored, and had a thin glowing purple light. Like a knights helm almost. With a few antenna's coming off of the top. As he stood back up fully his chassis seemed to give a loud hydraulic hiss.
"Engaging eradication protocols." Layak began, but then a snortle came from the fearsome AI. Quickly adding on before anyone over reacted. "Nah just fucken' with ya. What can I do for ya sir?"
His voice was very deep, but not all that mechanical, or modulated. A bit grainy, but otherwise 'normal'
Deralith watched Layak enter the room, wondering how useful he'd actually be in combat, his armour did seem rather... cumbersome though looks may be deceiving. He should know that best.
That Lu Xun actually knew what this trinket of his was was commendable, no matter the source he had, it did also, to a degree, confirm his own suspicions when he first saw the pendant.
He reached out for the amulet lying on the table, lifting an eyebrow at their host.
"May I?"
A hold in the golden expanse, so, precursor technology perhaps? A failsafe, a hidden retreat? Maybe it was connected to the history of the Expanse itself and why it was what it is today? Perhaps knowledge on looming threats or a terrible past? Sleepers held in stasis caskets?
There were many a possibility what this hold could be and what it could contain.
If it was real.
Perhaps a... cooperation with the Pirates would be beneficial in the future? It could also prove useful in other aspects...
Sub processes ran through calculations and predictions as he waited for Lu Xun's response.
Ok' nods in appreciation, turning to his soldiers who seem to be far more at ease with this knowledge, no longer sitting forwards in their chairs as they collectively look around the room.
The soldiers all flinched as the massive AI walked in and spoke at first, Ok' grimacing beneath his mask as he led out a deep sigh, turning back towards the single twin sitting in front of them at the table.
"When this ordeal has come to a conclusion, i may find myself in need to discuss with you about possibilities of co-operation. You may be pirates, but you have an honourable word, and are.. Professional."
He would have to bring it afront the senate, to fight with them, when he got home... Maybe he could convince them, maybe not. But these 'pirates' had earned his trust, at least partially.
Quin’s immediate reaction to Lu Xun’s apprehension about Vaplana being dangerous was to be a little confused. The loyal patriot in him was a little offended, after all, he was not only a representative of his Queen but of The Ceremonial Guard too, the organisation responsible for security. Vaplana had been transformed into a much safer place to live after the Pacifism reforms decades before under Fidelia’s father.
But, given a moment to think on it while gazing at the iridescent shine of the pendant, he came to the conclusion that Lu Xun’s worries were indeed justified. After all, he had been injured in the assassination attempt on Queen Fidelia not too long ago, and he was lucky. Many of his fellow citizens had died in the crossfire. And the Prime Minister had been paranoid for Fidelia’s safety ever since her father died… Vaplana was changing, no longer the safe and peaceful paradise Fidelia’s father had made it. If the accepted and well-liked Queen was in danger, the illegitimate children of the now-disgraced family line would certainly not be safe.
However justified Lu Xun was, did not mean that ensuring his request for his soldiers being allowed on Vaplanan soil would be easy. As much as Quin was relieved that Layak seemed to have a good sense of humour, which was a good sign, his appearance would cause trouble back home. Vaplana was a judgemental place, especially among the nobles, and his intimidating frame would certainly make waves. Vaplana’s approach was one much more subtle, and Quin couldn’t help but feel like the blatant show of raw power would not only scare the people, but would also offend the nobles. And the nobles were dangerous people to offend. He knew it, Fidelia knew it. He took a breath before replying.
“As much as I am disappointed to admit, you are right. Vaplana is not as peaceful a place we would like it to be right now, and I do assure you that everything possible is being done to change that. So, I do understand your desire to keep your people close. However, this may cause more problems than you foresee. Only members of the Ceremonial Guard are allowed to carry weapons back home, and that’s not even delving into the fact that you will be seen as stereotypical pirates initially. I will, of course, ask Queen Fidelia to come to a suitable arrangement for your security, and will do my best that you and your sister will be satisfied that your needs are being met. But this issue will certainly require at least some compromise…”
Quin sighed and ran his hand through his hair, trying to plan how best to broach this topic with the authorities back home once he was given the opportunity to get back in contact. What an impossible task…
“Of course, have a closer look if you like” Lu Xun then seemed to smile at the joke that the machine had pulled, almost an expected thing that Layak liked to pull on those who had not met it before.
“I need you to once these proceedings have concluded escort some of these fine individuals to a small cutter and take them to the edge of the threshold. You will also be accompanying me and Lu Xiang to Vaplana, however we will likely need to dress you up nicer” he gestured with a hand. Lu Xun was somewhat surprised to hear Quin admitting to the fact that Vaplana wasn’t safe, but quickly remembered that there had been an incident recently. He had not seen details of it but clearly it must have involved royalty if Quinlan was admitting such.
“With all due respect, I do not entirely trust everyone in your guard either. I am happy to keep weaponry to personal defence pieces concealed on my body so they do not stand out but unarmed would be tantamount to suicide you must understand, my sister as well would never even countenance the thought. I am well aware we will be nothing but a stereotypical boogey man, but we can put on flash and pomp just as much as any nation, our mother taught EOTL that.” Lu Xun seemed to smile at the thought.
“I will willing to compromise on outward security, but being totally unarmed is a no go, as for possible deal of co-operation, tell me more, we are indeed professional and keep our word it is how we became so powerful” He asked Ok’
Delaith picked up the necklace and observed it with great interest, whilst continuing to listen to the conversation on the side. It was masterfully crafted, not in terms of an artistic sense, as little as he understood of it, but more the actual materials, the design was calculated with purpose. He turned it a couple times in his hand.
"Hm..."
Strangely enough the design also looked... familiar.
He looked up at the conversation for a moment. The prospect of moving the pirates to Vaplana was... concerning. The network had a couple of agents there establishing themselves, although he lacked the details in this body for security reasons. From what he observed Lu Xun should not have too much an issue to blend in, his sister on the other hand...
He looked through his databanks trying to make sense of where he seen the design before.
Well and then there was now Layak who would need considerably more than a well crafted disguise.
Nakai. It was Nakai origin. It had taken a while to identify as, whilst they were well known, artefacts from them were a rarity but he was certain. He recalled some footnotes on their existence and involvement it was a topic the Prince would certainly be interested in. He placed the necklace back on the table and addressed Quin.
"I, too, would be interested in how you plan to bring all, him, his sister and..."
He gestured towards Layak with one arm.
"...him, onto Vaplana without causing an international uproar."
Layak looked over to Lu Xun. His black armored faceplate was blank, and the low glow of his purple visor that were his eyes had no emoticons to them whatsoever. His voice however carried all of the emotions needed to be conveyed.
"Boss I am uhh... I am a 2000 pound chassis built to fight wars. I mean I got some fancy optical stealth, the hydraulics can be real quiet like. But shit I can't think of nothing to make me less intimidating. Paint me pink, with little ponies, and rainbows over me maybe?" He snickered, and kept his gaze on their guests. While he was all fun and games personality wise, his job was to protect Lu Xun, and he wasn't shirking in that duty..... Or in his secondary duty to none here. He began to start getting as comprehensive of a reading on each in the room as he possibly could.
Ok'ta'yu nodded, and replied to Lu Xun, his glowing orange eyes providing no look into where his gaze has befallen.
"As of the last I heard from my nation, we have been dwindling on our production of vessels, and due to internal politics very few vessels have been taken off of defensive duties to go and explore out or do tasks outside our borders. Possibly, we could discuss a deal of hiring vessels from your ranks as mercenaries to allow our vessels more freedom to move through the galaxy. Though, much may have changed since i've been gone..."
Quin was feeling like the unluckiest man alive, to try and arrange such a meeting would indeed cause uproar. But, could he admit that? He was being as honest as possible to establish that he was acting in good faith, but would that admission be a step too far? He had seen the surprise on the faces of those gathered at his last admission, and he couldn’t help but feel he was slightly out of his depth. Yes, being a guard member he had some training on how to deal with people peacefully, but he was far from a diplomat. He was probably going to be reprimanded rather forcefully when he admitted to Vaplana what he had said…
“Your concessions are not unreasonable, and I will do my best to ensure my superiors are just as reasonable in their compromise. As for not causing an uproar… Well, I do have some useful connections back home that will make achieving this meeting more realistic. I envisage that working with those people will help calm tensions.”
His connections? Limited. But he had seen his sister pull off meetings that involved much more tense history than this, and thats not even touching upon the logistics she single-handedly organised for the peace negotiations between Orillia and The Union. But, all of those events were nowhere near as personal and important to the Queen and the Vaplanan people. Although, if Queen Fidelia saw her potential enough to keep Thalia so close then there was hope. The siblings would have to pull off a miracle together for this wild plan of his to go smoothly.
Lu Xun smiled and clasped his hands together.
"There we are then. I had hoped the Captain of the Royal Guard would be a reasonable and understanding gentlemen, I was not disappointed. We will uphold our end, only personal weapons, concealed and we will make an effort not to wear peg legs and jolly rogers eh?" He laughed.
"Don't worry Layak, we can get you some nice clothes and add on for that big frame of yours. At the end of the day your there to keep us safe, what's a little intimidating hm? If you want the pink and ponies however I wont stop you... And as for your deal Ok'. I am sure we can come to an arrangement. We hire our services to those willing to pay, although we are not cheap you get the best quality. I assume you wish for me to discuss this with your government?"
"Now, I suggest Quin and Ok' that you discuss what we have here with your respective people, you have no more restrictions on your communication systems, but we will be listening just in case you try something. As for you" He turned to Delaith "You recognise it don't you?"
He grinned.
"Priceless on the market, I don't doubt members of White Maginot would pay entire sectors for this. But its sentimental, and its a key." Lu Xun picked up the necklace and ran his fingers down it affectionately.
Ok'ta'yu nods and stands, motioning for the soldiers near him to do the same.
"I thank you for your hospitality, Mr. Xun. I shall see what I can do discussing with my Higher-ups."
His eyes glowed brighter for a moment; likely the cultural stand-in for smiling for kel'thulians, then he turned away the soldiers saying their own thanks and leaving alongside him, walking to each their own quarters. Ok' entered his own, closing the door behind him as he let out a sigh, changing out of his command robes into the common clothes he had been provided. Shortly after, he mused upon what Lu Xun had said. No more restrictions, hm? He stood up from a chair, and grasped his communication device- merely a little holographic pad with a microphone in the physical base, and a small pair of earhole-covers instead of a speaker.
"This is Executive officer Ok'ta'yu of the KNS Virtuous Advance. I am alive, and well. After discussion with the so-called pirates that have taken us aboard their ship, we will be sending my three soldiers still with me back home, but I have elected to stay behind and serve as a diplomat. They have been hospitable and well-kempt, and given us good care. If anyone upon the command net can hear me, please respond..."
And then he waited.
---A Key? A Key? A KEY?---
/// Error //// Re-evaluating battle-plan. //// Engage combat systems Y / N //// N //// Send mission update? Y / N //// N //// New Objectives //// mission file modified //// Mission report impossible. //// Proceeding with Operation Layak ////
Layaks sub processes all halted as the A.I. finally realized the importance of the Queen's Trinket. It had been dismissed as needless mortal sentimental value. Layaks gaze turned to the key and began to scan over it in depth. Layaks processes starting back up. The massive robots panels folding out slightly to give the internal components more breathing room. The heavy, dense, and heavily stealth coated armor plating he had did not do good with heat. He could vent himself, but Layak wasn't about to blow hot steam in his bosses face.
"No ponies Sir" He'd say with a small chortle then continue. "You know fashion better than me, boss...." He paused for a moment then asked one simple question. "Orders Sir?" He spoke plainly. But his voice still carried all the pep utterly unbefitting for such an intimidating robot.
Quin didn’t need to be told twice. He smiled at Lu Xun as he rose from his place. “I had hoped the same of you. I suppose we will see each other again when I have my reply from Vaplana.” He and his escort left, not before he gave Layak a friendly nod. He proceeded straight to his quarters and tried to contact Vaplana immediately. He knew if he hesitated even for a moment he would get too nervous. It didn’t take long before his call was answered.
Before him stood a holographic version of Talos, the Royal Information Chief. An agonising thorn in Quin’s side, this man always knew the most inopportune moment to show up and interrupt whatever was going on. He had never liked Talos, he was sneaky, slimy, fake. But, these were good traits for a spymaster so he did fit his job role. Quin had been expecting his boss, General Brodin, to answer; his absence was actually a little concerning.
“Quinlan Satolli. We were expecting a communication from you a week ago. Why am I not surprised at your tardiness?” Quin opened his mouth to shoot back a snarky reply but was quickly shot down. “Actually, do not bother answering that. I do not want or need to know. Give me your report and I will pass it on accordingly.”
“I was instructed by General Brodin to give my updates to him or Queen Fidelia only.”
“Both are currently indisposed. I’m afraid I will have to do, I have the according order here.” Quin’s PDA was pinged with a document signed by the Queen authorising Talos to be informed of the current mission. Quin sighed, Talos the slimy bastard had tied his hands so to speak. Typical.
“Fine then. After my last update I was essentially voluntarily kidnapped by pirate lords Lu Xun and Lu Xiang. After some negotiations I have reached an agreement, and are now passing on our agreement to yourself.”
“Wait a second, you have not been authorised to make any diplomatic contact with anyone, let alone a hostile force! You were sent to oversee the mercenaries in retrieving a necklace, and now you speak of negotiations and agreements. Vaplana will not be bound by any such agreement, I can tell you that. And that is not even touching upon the extortionate expenses that have been sent to us! 5000 Millicents to a random Coronan dockmaster, Quinlan are you crazy?! Money does not grow on trees, you know.”
“Look, before you judge how awful a job you think I’m doing maybe you should try doing a mission or two yourself instead of getting your minions, oh sorry I meant ‘talent’, to do it for you. If you are not going to be polite I demand to speak to someone impartial before I continue.”
“You have no such luxury to make demands, Quinlan. You cannot hide behind Queen Fidelia’s affection for you forever, and I will see to it that you are reprimanded for your negligence upon your return.”
Quin sighed. This was going nowhere.
“You haven’t even heard the most of it yet and you threaten to punish me. I guess after this briefing I’ll be lined up and shot for treason, or would be if you were in charge.”
“Did your feeble attempt at ‘negotiation’ go that badly? Well, now I’m intrigued, enlighten me.”
“Well, you see-”
“Talos, what are you doing in here? You were needed in a meeting of your staff 20 minutes ago.” A familiar female voice cut in on Talos’s end of the call, and Quin finally felt lucky again for the first time in a long while. It was his sister, coming to his rescue once again. Talos turned away from Quin in the call.
“I am taking an important call, maid, your presence is not required here. Just reschedule my meeting.”
“I may be a maid, sir, but I am not yours. I do not appreciate you giving me orders.”
“If you value your job in this Palace I would mind your tongue, commoner.”
“Hey, asshole, don’t ever speak to my sister like that!” Quin yelled, but unfortunately a small pop-up appeared informing him he had been muted. Thalia was on her own. Or so he thought…
“Talos, that kind of language is unacceptable for a member of my staff. Step aside, I demand to see who is so important that you shirk your duties.” A second voice cut through, and Quin’s stomach flipped. It was Queen Fidelia.
“Oh, uh, Majesty… I did not know you were there…” Talos stammered before stepping out of frame, his hologram being replaced with the forms of Queen Fidelia and his dear sister Thalia.
“Quin! I am so glad to see you are ok, we were so worried when we lost contact!” Thalia beamed.
“I see what has happened here… Talos, you are dismissed. I will hear Quin’s report.” A moment of silence, then the sound of a door slamming. “Quin, I too am happy to see you alive and well. Thalia told me you had attempted a call but it was answered before I could free myself from a briefing by the diplomat general. I hear you were kidnapped? I presume, given your freedom to contact us, you have been released?”
“Unfortunately, not quite yet. But you will be glad to know I am being treated very well. Pirate Lord Lu Xun is a gracious host, even in circumstances like these. I need to urgently update you on the situation here though, Your Majesty, for things are not as they seem.”
Quin proceeded to spill all to The Queen and his sister, who had undoubtedly caught Talos intercepting his call and acted accordingly. Both women were deep in thought by the end of the briefing.
“That certainly is… a situation. I do agree with the deal you have made, I welcome the Pirate twins to come here as my honoured guests. They deserve that much. However, this matter will require the assent of the Parliament, Quin. I will do my best to force the matter, but there is only so far I can go.”
“Thank you for your understanding of the situation, Your Majesty. And I must also apologise. I have overstepped horrendously on this mission, and the goal of retrieving the necklace for Lady Laskaris has been lost. I cannot bear to steal it away from those who should rightfully own it. I have also mistakenly spent, well… Far too much. I will accept whatever punishment you deem appropriate upon my return home.”
“Do not be silly, Quin. The money is a non-issue, I have already paid the amount you spent to the treasury from my own funds. And regarding your negotiating, I sent you on this mission for a reason. You may be the head of my guard, and as such a soldier, but you also have a talent with people. I wanted that skill on such a sensitive mission, and even though the circumstances have significantly changed I feel you have served me well. I look forward to seeing you back here where you belong, Quin. We both miss you dearly.” With a smile the women disappeared, and Quin was yet again alone. But, now, he felt just a shred of hope.
Later that evening…
“What do you mean, invite the pirates to Vaplana?! With respect Fidelia, are you mad?! This is not going to go down well in the chamber, you know that right?”
“Malax, I swore to uphold the laws of this land and those of morality when I was crowned. I take my duty seriously, and I feel that the twins deserve to be seen by their homeland.”
“They may be pretenders, have you considered that?”
“Of course I have, but I believe Quin when he said they bear a striking resemblance to Queen Ismini. They deserve a chance, and I wish to see them myself.”
“They are the strongest opponents to your position, dear. I am just trying to protect you…”
“I do not wish for you to protect me, Malax, we have had this conversation before. Arrange for the motion to go before Parliament first thing tomorrow, that is all I need from you right now.”
“You are too much like your mother, Fidelia…. Well, as you wish your majesty. It will be done.”
Delaith had initially remained silent in response to Lu Xuns question, waiting patiently in his seat as the others left the room. He eyed and the guards and Layak somewhat warily, though waiting for them to leave would likely be rather pointless.
As all the other guests were gone, he spoke up at last, a calculating and observing look on his face.
"Nakai. It is Nakai origin and you seem to be well aware of that. It is true that various individuals in this galaxy would pay you generously for it. However, I would be careful with who you reveal its existence to, I find it more than likely there are also plenty of people who would kill you for it, people entirely out of my or your scope of operations."
He paused for a moment, leaning forward and interlocking his fingers, then continued.
"That aside, I and the people I work with, too, would take interest in this vault. Would you be interested in coming to an agreement about its exploration, with people who may have experience with these sort of things?"
He looked at him for a couple moments longer then stopped.
"Of course, there is no need to decide this now. More, something to consider for the future."
Delaith stood up and turned to leave the room, to return to his quarters.
"Thank you for your time."
“Take the individuals who wish to leave and get them a ride home. And ready a group of at least semi presentable individuals that we can have accompany us. Don’t worry about my sister I will be the one to handle that powder keg” He nodded to Layak dismissing the AI to carry out the orders.
“Of course, Captain I will see you soon” Lu Xun seemed to wink almost like a joke, like he expected Quinlans next few hours would be hell. He was quite right.
“Your very correct it is Nakai, in remarkable condition too. And believe me, I am very well aware of how other parties will kill me for it, I have already gone to great lengths to secure it myself and to fight off would be thieves.” At Delaiths comment about exploration however Lu Xun seemed to sit back in his chair.
“A proposition for exploration, eh? And what do you and your benefactors gain from it? A cut of the bounty? Technology beyond our wildest dreams? A chance to backstab us and take it all for yourselves perhaps? I will think about the offer. And I thank you for your straightforwardness” With a nod he watched Delaith leave.
“I don’t like them” the voice of Lu Xiang came from beside Lu Xun, her powerful active camouflage de-activating.
“You would say that. Truthfully, I’m surprised you didn’t kill the Captain” He smiled.
“I wanted to. But… I want to see home.” He voice eased slightly. Lu Xun looked up at her standing over him.
“We will see home, soon my sister”
----
It was a few hours later as those who wished to leave gathered their things and were taken out of the Threshold, handed over to authorities and sent home. The meeting on Vaplana had been made, with Lu Xun very much happy about the arrangement, the vessel set off in due course, leaving EOTL station and the Threshold before making a direct course to Vaplana itself. The guests were still kept to the quarters, mostly for their own protection as much as the secrecy of EOTL itself.
It did not take long to reach their destination, coming out of FTL the familiar appearance of a beautiful blue and green marble filled the observation window. Quinlan was finally home. Almost immediately they were requested in the hangar bay.
Three shuttles waited for them, none of them quite the same and painted with all sorts of symbols and designs like a graffiti wall. Lu Xun and Lu Xiang stood waiting, both wearing incredibly gaudy clothing making them look like aristocrats from pre revolutionary France. Ten escorting honourguard stood with them, all clad in retrofitted Union power armour stripped down and painted black and gold.
“Greetings. I assume you are ready for this quite interesting meeting?”
As the remainder of their stay had been rather eventless Delaith had little to do in his time, merely waiting it out and sorting through his data until they would return from the threshold. He had reported back to the ships lying in wait and caught up with the events in the network as they left the territory of the pirates and both had been dismissed, at least for the moment, entering Vaplanan territory with military ships would hardly be a good idea if the Network wanted to establish favourable connections with them.
Something interesting he had gained through travelling the threshold was a vague idea how it could be navigated, though given the rather scarce knowledge it would likely still take a guide or a lot of probing and even then, there would still be pirates waiting on the other end.
As he left his room for the hanger bay today, he wore his usual uniform again, the captains uniform safely returned to where he had taken it from. He frowned at the oddly painted shuttles, as it felt like the paint lined up neither with the EotL nor Vaplanan ships, though that was likely intentional.
He had informed some of their assets on Vaplana, though whilst they would be able to keep eye out in public, there would little they would be able to do beyond that without revealing themselves and they wouldn't be able to follow them to the meeting either.
He observed the lined up troops and nodded affirmingly.
"Everything is in order. Which shuttle will we be taking?"
Quin had been rather busy for the rest of the journey, coordinating with his sister who had been put in charge of the welcome for the twins and their party. He had informed the twins’ crew exactly where to land and when, they were on a rather strict schedule after all.
Thalia had also kept him updated on all of the drama that had exploded after the full parliament had convened to approve the diplomatic event. There was… rather a lot of it. Even for Vaplanan standards. Nobody was pleased with the Queen’s decision, however, there was little any members could do as Prime Minister Malax Wickford had also approved the action. With the two rulers in unison, there was little room for debate, but that didn't mean people wouldn’t talk. Rumours had been flying around the court like wildfire, apparently, and some had even accused the Queen (privately of course) of having an affair with Lu Xun. It was all untrue, obviously, but gossip was the specialty of the nobles. Fidelia had been rather steadfast in ignoring all accusations, whatever their substance, smartly deciding to not lower herself to the nobles’ level.
Quin was nowhere near as unbothered by it all. As head of her personal security, his mind immediately went to the worst-case scenario. And for good reason, such unrest amongst the nobles was known as a breeding ground for plots and schemes of all kinds. He would have to be at his best when reunited with his queen, otherwise who would know what could happen?
Quin was therefore conflicted upon arriving at Vaplana. His heart was full of joy upon seeing his homeland before him once again, but his head was swirling with every negative possibility all at once. He knew better than to let it consume him, however, so he tried his best to cling to his excitement at being reunited with his loved ones again. Not even the twins’ gaudy and out-of-season appearances could dampen that feeling.
Vaplanan noble fashion was an ever-evolving roulette of elegant styles from ancient European courts, melding flowing fabrics and skin-tight silhouettes with intricate metalwork and glistening jewels. It changed, sometimes dramatically, every season thanks to the nobles’ need to one-up each other. The only unifying factor was that fabrics were recycled or sustainably sourced as much as possible, in line with Vaplana’s green philosophy. So, while the twins’ ensemble was at least four seasons out of date if their outfits were recycled they would at least not be ostracised. Quin knew better than to ask, though, lest Lu Xiang behead him on the spot.
“Ready as can be. We should get going, my dear sister has us on a tight schedule for now I’m afraid.”
Most the rest of Ok'Ta'Yu's journey was waiting. Waiting for a response from his home government, and walking around aimlessly. Eventually, he did get a response, but all it told him was that discussions couldnt be made till he arrived home, and brought the pirates with him. Great, he told himself, more endless waiting. May aswell see their visit to Vaplana, and then maybe coordinate one with his home.
Maybe.
When the day finally came for them to leave, he brought himself to put on his uniform-robes once again, straightening them out after recently having them cleaned, fastening little pins and buttons. When he wrapped on the last layer of the robe, he looked into a mirror.
"Almost out." he said, openly speaking to himself. "Once this is done and over with, I'll be home."
And he stepped away, exiting his room. Down the halls and bulkheads he went, with the soft tap of his shoes against the metal of the floor. He stepped into the hangar, taking note of Quinlan and Delaith having arrived moments before him, with the troops and twins to boot. He nodded, and stepped closer, before turning his dimmed eyes to the twins.
"Indeed I am. Hopefully, all goes well."
Laylak gave a casual two finger salute to Lu Zun. "I'll get right to it boss, and thanks. Your sister can be a... Well ya know better than anyone." The robotic titan chuckled, and turned to leave. Going to gather the men he knew would be good in a fight, and serious enough to not screw anything up. Popping open any stores of weapons, or gear under his disposal to get them a better chance at helping out if needed. And while he was at it, slinking off into one of the access points. Quickly and subtly releasing a spyware program on the vessels systems, while going through the systems to look like he was doing an average check up in line with his duties. He needed infromation now, and taking bigger risks to achieve that was acceptable to the mission. Simple spyware was first, so he could listen in, and watch both the twins, and their guests. It was also a good test of the waters while he had many scapegoats on the vessels.
“The nice one, don’t want to give the wrong impression” Lu Xun smiled tapping on the side of the shuttle with the filagree and various ornamental additions to make it look more like a hawk. Its sides inscribed with frescos showing Lu Xaobo’s epic feats. Lu Xiang gave a glare at Quinlan and the others, while she was dressed up nice her attitude and obvious distrust was plain to see, she was going to be the wildcard in these meetings.
“Well, if your all ready then lets go, as the man says we are on a tight schedule”
They boarded the shuttle, strapping down onto seats as the engines cycled up and they took off. The EOTL honour guard still eyed their guests carefully behind their helmets, but within moments the shuttle was out of the ship and the interior became totally see through, it was like they were flying without the shuttle around them.
“The first time being in our home worlds skies” Lu Xun whispered, both of the twins seemed to look at each other with genuine happiness.
As they broke the clouds, the large city opened up below them, beautiful eco-modern designs which stretched upwards and rubbed shoulders with old neo-gothic and neo-victorian constructions. Their destination was below, the large gardens surrounding the palace, the landing area being in a thicket of extremely old oak woodland. The trees rustled as the craft came to a halt, there was a large entourage of people waiting for them, Quin almost instantly recognising the Queen herself and the Queens guard escorting her.
“So, this is our home” Lu Xun smiled, the ramp descended and both he and his sister stepped forward, taking one in each together they placed one foot onto the lush green grass of Vaplana. Decades, they had waited for this moment for decades. As they strode out, those within followed, the EOTL honour guard forming up behind the two pirates.
Delaith had been silent during the flight down, pondering on how he should act once they arrived, perhaps it would be best to stay close so he could intervene in case something should happen? He took note of scenery as they descending, though it meant little to him. With the other assets informed and things being as there were, there was little could do right now.
As the twins left the shuttle, so did he shortly after, keeping a respectful distance to either side, but staying close. He turned towards the queen, and bowed respectfully.
"Delaith Vargen, I have been assisting Quinlan. My apologies for the circumstances under which this meeting came to pass."
He went silent again and waited, observing what either side would do and how the meeting would go.
Even though Quin was doing his best to remain professional, he couldn’t help but experience the same joy the twins were feeling as he watched Vaplanan soil grow closer and closer. It had been far too long since he had been home, and he had experienced so much. He was practically buzzing with excitement when the ramp descended. He could barely wait for the twins to take their first steps onto Vaplana before he too left the shuttle behind them. He felt so many eyes on him, but he didn’t care. His colleagues were looking him up and down, apprehensively at first but they quickly all broke into smiles seeing him back unharmed. A guard member whispered something to Queen Fidelia and the atmosphere immediately lightened. Her stoic and emotionless gaze quickly morphed into a warm beaming smile. Clearly, they had been worried sick that Quin had been mistreated or harmed in some way. With that not being the case, the Vaplanan delegation seemed much more eager to give the twins only the best welcome.
Queen Fidelia stepped forward, flanked by two men Quin quickly recognised as senior guard members. They were the best of the best, outranked only by himself and the General. She wore a lilac renaissance a-line gown in line with current official court fashion, a stark contrast to the hooped skirts and endless layers of fabric of the french style the twins were sporting. It was adorned with hundreds of tiny pearls. She did not come wearing her official crown, but instead an intricately-carved golden circlet sporting only a few diamonds for decoration. Simple, understated, but making it clear she was royalty without screaming it from the rooftops.
“Dearest guests, Lu Xun and Lu Xiang, it is my pleasure to welcome you to Vaplana.” The Queen extended her hand to the pair, waiting to see if they would follow the Vaplanan custom to lay a quick kiss there, or maybe give her a handshake? She smiled politely, trying not to glance too often at Quin and instead focus on her guests. She could catch up with her friend later.
“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for returning my Captain to me unharmed. I hope he has not caused you too much trouble.” She then turned to Deliath, pleased that at least one of her guests was guaranteed to be courteous.
“I thank you too, Delaith Vargen, for assisting our Quin on his journey back to us. I look forward to getting to know you all over the duration of your stay with us.”
Quin noticed that for an official welcome, there was a distinct lack of nobility present. In fact, no members of the nobility or the Government were present. Not even the Prime Minister had turned up. Quin hoped they would rendezvous with more members of the court inside the palace in line with tradition, otherwise, either the twins or the Vaplanan establishment may make a scene. He did not want a scene so early into the visit.
“Would you walk with me?” Fidelia extended her arm to Lu Xun and gestured for Quin to do the same for Lu Xiang, which made Quin wish a hole would swallow him. He knew that personally escorting their guests to the palace was expected, but in such a personal and friendly way was a bold move for any first meeting, let alone one with such high stakes. He would also rather not get within hitting range of Lu Xiang. Regardless, he dutifully held out his arm, awaiting the inevitable swipe that would come as a result.
Stepping out of the shuttle, keeping away from the rest, Ok' took a moment to peer around. After some time he noticed the Queen, and took hold of the bottom of his robe, bowing down and curtsying with the robe as his eyes dimmed, showing respect to the woman. Not too long after, he let go and raised up from the bow, his eyes glimmering back into a soft orange colour, partially illuminating his masked face.
"I am Ok'Ta'Yu, and have also partaken in assisting Quinlan and Delaith. I do hope none of my customs clash with that of yours."
After speaking, he remained silent and awaited for the Twin's responses to the Queen.
As the twins were faced with Queen Fidelia Lu Xuns eye seemed to raise. He was more impressed than he let on, but maybe it was just her looks. His face was already running contingencies but most of his thoughts was a potential marriage into Vaplanan royalty, he had all the necessary ties and qualifications, but a smile crossed his face as he focused on the moment. Lu Xiang visibly twitched and recoiled slightly at the Queens gesture. Lu Xun stepped forward with confidence, taking her hand and kissing it gently.
“The pleasure is all ours your majesty. I am King Lu Xun of the End of the Line. This is my sister, Lu Xiang, Queen of the organisation. Your captain has been most willing to help given this rather interesting situation it was the least we could do” She did not shake Fidelias hand, keeping herself at a safe distance away. At the offer to walk with her Lu Xun smiled and nodded, taking her arm as he calmly walked at her pace, observing the surrounding beautiful greenery.
Lu Xiang practically glared daggers at Quinlan as he did the same. Prompting Layak to make some kind of noise similar to laughter as the machine accompanied them. The pirate queen held Quin as loosely as possible, it was clear she was despising every moment. This was not how she imagined coming back to Vaplana.
“This place is beautiful, it is just how our mother used to say it is. I believe your captain informed you about everything, I do not wish to hide anything or beat it around the bush. You must understand, our mother was taken from us and our very future was denied, this… paradise, was barred from us due to circumstance and petty nobility” Lu Xiang seemed to nod in agreement.
As they walked Delaith remained silent for the moment, falling in line with the other guests and guards, interrupting the talks between royalty could be considered impolite or even offensive, even with how friendly the queen gave herself currently and there was not much he had to say at the time anyways.
Ok'Ta'Yu had raised a valid point with his concern about the differing customs, one of the many things one had to keep in mind when working with foreign cultures, especially alien ones, which meant he likely had a decent degree of competence.
The same could likely not be said about the Pirate queen, he did not envy Quinlans position. For all she boasted and complained about Vaplana being her homeworld, from what he had seen so far she seemed to either know or value the traditions of the place rather little, which raised the question of whether she was actually aware what she was getting herself into here or if she had just been focusing on her envy and hatred all these years. Admittedly, he hadn't seen too much of her so far, so he may still be wrong.
Layak on the other hand... well, he did not really expect that much from him, he was a war machine and a sort of captain or bodyguard for the pirates as such royal court behaviour was likely not his strength though not on his agenda either.
Queen Fidelia had been paying close attention to every little movement of both the twins during their first meeting. In particular, she had been watching their body language carefully. It seems that Quin’s assessment of the pair had been spot on, as expected. Lu Xun was open to friendly relations, his demeanour was certainly warm enough and he had clearly done his homework regarding Vaplana’s traditions. Lu Xiang… not so much. The pirate Queen was treading a very fine line, after all the gap between aloofness and insulting behaviour was rather small. Anyone else would have been chastised by now, but knowing the background and all at stake here Fidelia knew she had to be patient. The fact she was a fellow Queen also helped keep her men from showing just how much her rudeness offended them. She was to be the example to follow when reacting to other Royal presence, so when her guards eyed her at Lu Xiang’s snubs Fidelia just smiled. Now was too early to cause unnecessary trouble.
“When Quin told me of your circumstance I was initially surprised, but with a bit of digging I found the truth unraveling before my eyes. I found myself filled with such shame, seeing such extreme measures being taken just to maintain the status quo. As the current head of state it falls to me to make things right, which is a duty I take very seriously. How can I expect to enact a change in my nation without leading that change personally?” Fidelia sighed, knowing fully well the cost of going against the established order of things. “I hope inviting you both here does not cause too much pain, I hope this visit can begin the path of healing for us all.”
Quin, meanwhile, was somehow getting the feeling that Lu Xiang did not want to be near him. Was it the fact that she had only taken his arm after her brother set the standard, the fact that she had put as much space between them, or the fact that whenever he so much as glanced in her direction she shot him daggers? Nobody would ever know. Since she was clearly not interested in sharing the polite conversation that Queen Fidelia and her brother were enjoying he instead turned to the two diplomats walking beside him. He was glad both Ok'Ta'Yu and Delith had agreed to follow him here, he hoped that he could get a good word in for them so their trips would be worth it. He also wished to show his new comrades what Vaplana had to offer.
“If you’re both worrying about customs I wouldn’t fret. As long as you are as polite as you have been to me you’ll do well here, we deal with enough foreigners to extend grace and understanding. Her Majesty is the kindest monarch you’ll ever meet. Trust me, just let yourselves get swept away by the surrounding beauty and I assure you you’ll have a great time!”
“Inviting us here was a brave move. The status quo is a powerful thing Queen Fidelia, and some will go to any length to see it maintained. I do not doubt our presence here is enough to upset the balance, forgive me if we are on edge somewhat as much as you likely have no intention of harming us, I firmly believe there are others who will do so without a second thought. Probably they already know of our presence” Lu Xun kept his smile, but his eyes darted to the guards, Lu Xiang also seemed on edge, but she kept up her appearance.
“It is painful, but this visit must happen, we have to see our true home properly” Lu Xiang finally spoke up, giving a brief glance to Quin to likely observe his reaction. She was tense.
“My real question is Queen Fidelia, and sorry for being so frank, you now have two rival contending monarchs for your thrown who have appeared out of nowhere and have a large outside power base. What are your intentions of dealing with us?” Lu Xun seemed to ask the question both as a bit of amusement but also with a hint of truth. His eyes revealing a mix of playfulness and seriousness.
“Do you trust your guard?” Lu Xiang seemed to ask Quinlan quietly, she didn’t even look at the captain. Meanwhile Layak turned to Delaith and Ok’Ta’Yu.
“I assume neither of you have visited this place either? It is far too gaudy for my taste”
Queen Fidelia couldn’t help but let out a small sigh. Lu Xun was clearly a smart man, he had no idea just how true his statement had been. Everyone had been lecturing her ever since she made her intentions clear, saying how stupid she was being for inviting them and how she was inviting nothing but trouble to Vaplana. She knew she was playing with fire, it was true, but if she wanted to enact a change in Vaplanan culture and attitudes she knew she would have to lead by example.
“Some would say brave, others would say incredibly naive. I am willing to upset things if it means I am righting the wrongs of my nation’s past. Is it not the duty of a monarch to lead by example in making their nation a better place? Regardless, I completely understand your reservations. As to my intentions, I divulge them willingly in the hope you too will be honest as to your intentions with me. I wish to befriend you, get to know you. Hopefully, begin to make up for the way you have both been wronged by my people. Eventually, maybe, I hope we may become allies. I know this is a dangerous path to walk, as you said you are rivals to my throne, but I do not wish to push you away before getting to know you both. I vowed to do whatever is in the best interests of Vaplana when I was coronated, and making an enemy of two powerful individuals such as yourselves is not pursuant to that goal.”
Quin was happy that Lu Xiang was finally speaking up. Although, he could feel how tense she was as she held his arm. Her comments about how gaudy Vaplana was did not pass him by, but he showed no external reaction to her probes. She was entitled to her opinion, who was he to argue with a Queen?
“It is not the guards you should worry about, Your Majesty. I trust them all absolutely. It is the nobles and politicians that will cause us issue.” Quin spoke softly, barely above a whisper. “They will be watching our every move like hawks, waiting for the perfect moment to begin playing their games. Just follow Queen Fidelia’s lead, she has been keeping them at bay for weeks I am sure.” He did not wish to alarm Lu Xiang, but he couldn’t exactly lie either. She needed to know what would come once they left the safety of the Palace Gardens.
Lu Xun raised an eyebrow in appreciation of the Queens openness, it was a trait which End of the Line valued highly. Ironically, because Queen Ismini had forced it into the organisation.
"Very forward with your intentions I see, I must state I respect you for that. It was our mother than emphasised truthfulness in our organisation, something unique to us in regards to privateers. Given you have been truthful I will be too. I am here to see our home, to gauge your power and position and to survey this nation for a potential take over by me and my sister and our organisation. No disrespect of course" He smiled.
"But your willingness to deal with us and, as you say, heal the wounds of the past is a surprise to me. It changes things. I could not imagine our nations working together closely given how far apart we are, but I suppose that is what made my mother and fathers relationship and ruling style unique. Who knows, maybe the future can hold quite interesting things for us both" He winked playfully.
"That does not reassure me Captain. But I hope your men can be trusted, if these nobles try to stop us here we will do whatever is necessary to protect ourselves. I assume you understand that" Lu Xiangs eyes narrowed.
To a degree, Delaith agreed with Layak, which was somewhat of a strange feeling. Royal palaces had never been a locale he particularly enjoyed being in, a lot of resources merely spent on giving an impression of power, a display of wealth or attempt at creating beauty, which was very much in the eye of the beholder.
He himself did prefer a more utilitarian approach to architecture, though even he had to admit that his purpose was entirely removed from that of Vaplanan royalty.
"It is what one would expect from a royal palace of a tourism centred nation but no, I have not been here before in person."
It was one of those things that were technically neither right nor wrong, he of course the exploration data from his assets however, the frame he resided in currently had not been on Vaplana before.
That aside it seems that meaning, at least so far, seemed to be going well, nobody had gone at each others throats yet, even though some seemed to play with the thought. As much as Quinlans words about his guard were reassuring, the pirate Queens concerns were legitimate. There was no telling what the guard or the nobles would do, no absolute in where their loyalties lied, after all, they were no machines. Though he kept silent for neither upsetting Fidelia or Quinlan nor making Li Xiang more distrustful would be a very wise decision right now.
Lu Xun’s confession was nothing Fidelia hadn’t expected. She was glad they had already established enough goodwill to be honest with each other, that was an unexpected bonus at least. If relations remained this positive she may be able to avoid the hostile takeover everyone was expecting.
“I take no offence. In fact, I would be a little disappointed if you were not interested in stealing my crown away. It proves to me that Vaplana is valuable and worth fighting for; and that all my family has sacrificed so far has not been pointless.”
Fidelia couldn’t help but allow her mind to wander for a moment, wondering if her father knew about any of this. If he did, she wished he had kept her in the loop considering she was his only heir. But she also wondered if he would be pleased with how she decided to approach it all. She was brought crashing back into reality when Lu Xun spoke up again. Was he flirting with her?!
The Queen hadn’t actually considered such a relationship when she was planning all this. She had promised her father on his deathbed that she would make a love match as he had with her mother, the prospect of a purely political match had caused so many sleepless nights and arguments with Malax over the years. Hence why she was still unmarried at 31 and 5 years on the throne. Any other Queen would have been married off within the first few years, but she was a stubborn breed.
But… Then again, Lu Xun was friendly enough. And, she hated to admit, he was as handsome as anyone could imagine a King would be. If they gave this time, maybe the connection she wanted would develop… Or it could not. Only time would tell.
“Well, if you have as deep a connection as I have been told your parents had, I’m sure no obstacle could get in the way. Distance in the face of such a love would be meaningless. Or, so I’ve been told.” Fidelia couldn’t help but smile warmly at the memories of her father recounting how he met her mother and their other milestones. She wondered if Lu Xun and Lu Xiang had similar memories of their father telling them his love story.
“And the future could be rather interesting, indeed, but that depends on whether you proceed to steal my crown doesn’t it?” Fidelia quipped back, deciding to match Lu Xun’s energy. She had invited the twins here to make friends, so seeing how far that would go would just be an extension of that.
Quin did not doubt at all that Lu Xiang would retaliate with lethal force if anyone tried anything. He would be shocked if she held back at all, to be honest. But, if it was one of the more problematic nobles on the end of her fury he would be secretly rather grateful, even if the fallout would be intense.
“I want you to know that if anything does happen, my guard will gladly lay down their lives to protect you. As guests of Queen Fidelia that is our duty, and our honour. I know it is not reassuring, but I cannot lie to you. That would do none of us any good, would it?”
“I full agree your majesty” He turned away from her to look forwards towards the palace that they were rapidly approaching.
“So, what is the plan for the events? I like to be prepared” Lu Xiang spoke up, making Lu Xun chuckle, especially in response to the statement about stealing the crown.
“I suppose its whether I set my sights on your crown or your heart Majesty” it was clear the mans sister was not exactly happy about the flirting or the prospect of being cut out of a potential ruling position in Vaplana and it made her body language even more hostile.
“That depends if this is all an elaborate tactic and you have been paid off by the other pirate clans to politically assassinate us at a very precise moment for maximum affect and political value. I barely trust my own guards let alone yours” Once again Layak seemed to smile.
“Do not worry lady Xiang I am fully capable of assisting you”
“That does not make me feel much better”
Fidelia chuckled. Lu Xiang clearly knew little of Vaplanan attitudes if she thought they were in contact with other pirate groups. Those types were not popular here, and it was causing enough scandal to have reached out to their group, let alone others who were less… civilised. Granted, she understood the woman’s paranoia, she would feel the same if their roles were reversed. However, anyone who knew Fidelia even a little knew that she would never even dare to mistreat her guests in any way. The proper treatment of guests is a long and ingrained tradition in Vaplana, and a Royal actively attempting to make a guest uncomfortable let alone kill them would lead to one of the biggest scandals seen in Vaplanan history. It was just not within her character, and even if it was it would be political suicide.
Fidelia stopped her stroll to turn and face Lu Xiang, the stairs that would take them up into the castle just behind her. She did her best to look as friendly and open as she could, even though she knew Lu Xiang would not be swayed by sweet words she could not act coldly. Not now.
“I know my word means very little, Your Majesty, but I can promise you that I hold no ill will towards you, your brother, or your people. I cannot guarantee that also applies to my people, but no danger will come to you from me. I vow to do my best to shield you all from what is to come, after all, they are my people and so my responsibility. Now, as to what is to come.”
She glanced over all of those gathered before her, both the pirates, the Kel’thulian diplomat and the mercenary. What a strange little group she would be presenting to her court…
“I am about to present you in a greeting ceremony to a gathering representing my court. There will be members of my Parliament, politicians, and members of the nobility present. Unfortunately, my Prime Minister Malax Wickford is on important business abroad so cannot make it. The greeting will not take long at all, it is just a presentation of my guests before the crowd. You’ll have time after to prepare for tonight’s banquet celebrating your safe arrival, which is followed by an evening of mingling with members of my court. I wish I could offer you an evening of entertainment or reflective solitude, however, tradition bends for no soul here. Once tonight is over I promise you’ll have much more control over what you see and do here. I am more than happy to show you whatever you wish to see.”
Since their getting-to-know-you conversation seemed to be over Fidelia turned and let the group up the stairs. They entered the palace through a small conservatory filled with brilliant orange orchids surrounding an elaborate water feature. The flowers were native to Vaplana, a rare and beautiful flower famed for its sweet fragrance. It had been the symbol for the Pinnome’s for centuries. They had clearly been lovingly maintained, despite the change in rulers. Just beyond the conservatory lay the palace, they entered into a grand entrance hall through a small side door. Fidelia had clearly led the party this way to show off the conservatory instead of taking them through the main entrance.
She crossed the hall with a presence and purpose only possessed by a Queen on a mission, her demeanour slowly shifting from welcoming and friendly to a woman of steel. Her court had gathered through that door right in front of her, and she needed to be ready to face them. She stood before the doors, turning to her guests for one last time.
“Are you all ready?”
Delaith nodded.
"One would assume so.", it was not like it was a real choice, coming here they would hardly turn around and return to the shuttle.
The Queen had been an interesting individual so far, someone they may be able to reasonably negotiate with, whether this was really 'her' or just a facade remained to be seen. His current concerns lied more with the nobility of this nation. He was a machine built for infiltration and interacting with the mortal races, that much was true but he was also primarily an AI made to combat unknown and esoteric forces, to explore, research and eliminate. Someone made to lead a network of AI.
...which was a far shot from what was required to lead humans and other biological beings. He was not fond of the premise of having to interact with a host of foreign nobles and royalty though so long as Gadreth was still missing it would be falling into his, or rather his AI-ancestors, responsibility.
His other concern was how said nobility would react to the pirates and likewise a factor which would likely determine this entire operations outcome and potentially even the nations fate. Something he would rather not be responsible for. However, on the other hand he would likely negotiate with the leader of the nation regardless of who it may turn out to be.
Lu Xiang looked Fidelia in the eyes as she stopped and made her promise. It was in this moment it became very obvious to the queen how exhausted Xiang looked, like she had been fighting her whole life for scraps at a table. Lu Xun wore the same look albeit he was far better at hiding it. Surprisingly Lu Xiang did not quip back or make some snide comment but merely stared into the Queens eyes and nodded.
The group seemed impressed with the palace as they made their way in, all intently listening to Fidelia as she laid out the progress of events. Both the twins stopped for a brief moment in the conservatory, looking at the beautiful flowers and even making Xiang smile as she remembered her mother fondly talking of such plants as a child.
Still, they readied themselves, Lu Xun straightened his suit and brushed himself down, Lu Xiang flittered with her hair and rolled her muscles almost like she was readying herself for a fight.
“I think I would rather face down a firing squad” She commented, making her brother laugh for a moment.
“Ready whenever you are your majesty”
Ok'ta'yu nodded. "I am indeed prepared," he responded- his eyes emitting a soft glow and his mandibles chattering beneath his mask- with an approximation of a friendly smile. "May it go well, under the light of the stars.
Underneath the metaphorical mask, he was quite stressed. How far away from Kel'thul was Vaplana? Surely quite far- though maybe not to the same degree as the gilded expanse of ancerium at the galaxy's core. No matter- he was far from home, watching diplomacy between a nation he'd not heard of before a few weeks ago and the pirates that held a birthright to their throne.
Despite the friendliness, and his general demeanor, he was really just ready to go home.
In spite of that, he pushed the feelings down. Maybe he might like it here, if he gives it a chance.
Fidelia nodded to a palace attendant when everybody was ready, who proceeded to swing open the large double doors that stood between her and her subjects. On the other side stood Thalia. She stopped scanning the crowd from the sidelines for a moment to smile at her brother before stepping forward to announce their arrival.
“Queen Fidelia the first presents her honoured guests, King and Queen Lu Xun and Lu Xiang of The End of the Line. The distinguished Diplomat Ok'ta'yu, representative of the Grand Empire of Kel'thul. And, finally, the esteemed mercenary Delaith Vargen, agent of APS mercenary group. Honoured guests, we welcome you to Vaplana.” Thalia turned towards the group and curtseyed, the gathered elites of Vaplana following suit. Some were admittedly more enthusiastic about it than others. Once that ceremony was over the nobles went back to chatting amongst themselves, the more friendly looking of the bunch approaching the group to briefly mingle.
The first to approach was a tall young man, dressed finely in the yellows and whites of House Severa.
“It is a pleasure to meet you all. I am Siyan Severa, eldest son of Duchess Kathryn. I look forward to getting to know the real people behind the scary pirate stories I have heard flung about the room today. I tell you, these folks love to exaggerate, I do hope it does not put you off from enjoying yourselves. Just between you and I, I know dearest Fidelia will take very good care of you. She has been fretting about making your stay here perfect ever since it was decided!” Siyan, clearly, was a jolly man. He smiled brightly at all of the guests, but seemed to be paying particular attention to Lu Xun.
“Siyan and I have been close friends since we were children.” Fidelia smiled politely and attempted to explain this man’s unnatural closeness to the monarch.
“Not as close as you and Liliya, you have to admit that. Speaking of, my sister sends her regrets but felt it unwise for us both to attend.” Fidelia nodded sombrely, her dear friend’s presence would be greatly missed, however, the security implications of removing her from the safety of her home right now would be too great.
Meanwhile, Delaith and Ok'ta'yu found themselves slowly being separated from the other guests and absorbed into the crowd of nobles. The elites were very eager in asking them all kinds of questions about their backgrounds, their work, and what brought them to Vaplana. While there seemed to be an uneasy divide between the Vaplanan’s and the Pirates, there was no such tension between them and Delaith and Ok'ta'yu. They were almost overwhelmingly welcoming…
The man at the centre of this group of enthused nobles introduced himself to the two as Duke Zaros Mercia. He wore a red waistcoat embroidered all over with roses, and he even seemed to smell like a rose garden. He held his hand out to shake, giving off the air of a businessman instead of a noble. The pair noticed he had discreetly slipped a business card into their hands after the handshake, which stated that the man before them was the CEO of Mercia Incorporated.
“I look forward to getting to know you both at the banquet later, we will not get much opportunity to properly converse here. This ceremony is for introductions only, unfortunately.” No sooner had he said those words another announcement was made. It had only been 10 minutes, but it seemed the gathering was coming to an end. The nobles began to filter out of the room, going to prepare themselves for the dinner that was to be held soon.
Delaith stood around, bowed formally, shook hands, answered questions and nodded in agreement or acknowledgement. Though he kept a professional aura and demeanour on the outside, he first and foremost sighed in relief on the inside, as the meeting finally came to an end.
He felt a mix of accomplishment and discontent, although he had played his role well so far and human nobles had a tendency to be a valuable source of information, that did not mean he was particularly fond of interacting with them either way. With their arrogance, vanity, greed and tendencies to make things complicated, they usually embodied most of the qualities which he associated with the most problematic sides of mortal races.
However, he had to admit, it was less severe here on Vaplana than in some other places, even if that may only be the surface. Ultimately it would take time to judge this.
He had kept an eye on the pirates and their host during his brief conversations, though fortunately, so far, nothing bad had happened.
As the assembly of nobles began to leave he looked around and made an attempt to return to the rest of the group, he would likely be stuck with nobles for long enough this evening.
Both the twins bowed as they were announced, perfectly in fact, like they had been drilled in custom. It was not surprise however, given who their mother was.
Lu Xun held out his hand to shake Syan Severa and smiled.
“Well you know how exaggerating things tends to reinforce ideas, its good to know our reputation precedes us, thank you for the warm welcome we are both eager to learn about Vaplanan nobility and much of this world. The Queen is doing a wonderful job so far” Lu Xiang merely nodded in appreciation, her face still a mix now between distrustful and emotional. She had grown up as a child imagining herself as a princess and queen of Vaplana walking these halls and talking to her subjects. Lu Xun had taken her inaction as a sign to take the lead. Truth be told, Lu Xiang was trying to hold back tears.
“The strongest of bonds are those formed in childhood I find, tell me, truthfully if you may how many were staunchly opposed to our coming?” The Pirate king studied the mans body language carefully, years of pirate work had told him how to read if someone was lying and his eyes constantly flittered to not just the queen but the others who had accompanied them, it was not hard to notice Ok’Ta’yu and Delaith were being welcomed more than the two of them.
“It seems they have taken the spotlight” Lu Xun chuckled.
Oktayu conversed politely with the assortment of nobles, answering inquiries and providing questions of his own, while his eyes glowered with his species' equivalent of smiling. This polite, open demeanor was kept up for most of the meeting- though it wavered slightly near the end- before he was relieved that the meeting was coming to a close, the exhaustion of long conversation setting in. So much talk, and not much of importance done. If only the people would be as welcoming as this to the twins, then maybe proceedings would speed up and look less tense from the distance he stood at.
Nonetheless, he gathered back up with that of Delaith, as it'd surely be a long time, this beaurocracy and the like.
"The people of this nation are surely interesting, dont you think?" he said absentmindedly to the 'mercenary',
"They are certainly different from the nobles I am used to working or dealing with.", Delaith noted truthfully, he still was not particularly fond of spending the whole evening with them though.
"It appears we will be spending a lot of time getting to know them this evening. It makes me wonder how these proceedings compare to your own homeworld and how an reception like this would've gone if the queen visited the End of the Line."
His gaze wandered to the twins which seemed to be fine with their situation so far, the brother seemed to be well in his element, however, he had a hard time interpreting the expression of the sister.
He turned towards the queen and addressed her, though not without the necessary respect, half out of formality and half because he actually found her noteworthy so far, nodding a repeated greeting and a hinted bow.
"I congratulate you, Queen Fidelia, your nobles seem to be a curious breed, though they seem to be... well controlled, so far."
He paused, looking at the last departing nobles.
"What are the plans for the evening then , if I may ask and are there any things we should be wary or aware of?"
Siyan couldn’t help but glance between Lu Xun and Fidelia at Lu Xun’s positive comments towards her. The tiniest of scowls pulled at his lips, lasting only for a mere moment before being swiftly replaced with his usual cheery demeanour. It would only be noticed if someone were paying him particular attention, and Queen Fidelia having been surveying the wider room did not notice. He took a long moment, looking at her for slightly too long, before replying to Lu Xun.
“If you are to learn one thing about those gathered here today, let it be this. Take nothing they say as truth, nor as outright lies. It is always impossible to tell anyone’s true intentions from just a meeting, or even from decades of friendship. We Vaplanans simultaneously keep our true selves carefully concealed, but also wear our hearts on our sleeves. As such, it is almost impossible to tell how many truly sit on either side. But, if you were to go by what has been openly said… It would be evenly split.”
Queen Fidelia nodded at her friend’s monologue. It was truly a good summary, especially for a concept that was so hard to describe to foreigners. She could not have spoken the truth any more eloquently.
“They were always to have the spotlight, at least initially. My flock fear changes to the established order, and due to our way of conducting business mercenaries are very valuable connections to have here. Diplomats, too, are sought-after connections here with their skills being so highly valued in our culture. It seems it is their fate to overshadow us tonight, but that may be for the best.” Queen Fidelia gazed across the hall to the gathering of nobles, her two guests at its epicentre. She was glad to see them looking so confident as the crowd thinned, she had been a little worried they would get swallowed whole.
“Curious is certainly one word to describe it. They are on their best behaviour, and I suspect they shall remain so until each of you has been carefully examined thoroughly. That includes myself, so pelase do not feel singled out.”
“We have a few hours until the feast this evening. There will be plenty of food, music, dancing, but… Our every move will be scrutinised, from every angle, all at once. Anything less than perfection will be exploited. I would get some rest, and get your stories in order. They do exchange notes, and any irregularity will be quickly discovered.” Fidelia was staring off into the distance by the end of her explanation, her mind split between the here and now and the distant past. Siyan picked up on this immediately and placed a hand on her shoulder, attempting to ground Her Majesty.
“I would take her advice, dear guests. Go and rest, you will need your strength for the trials ahead.” He looked to Quin and Thalia to lead the group away to their rooms. He drew Fidelia into a one-armed hug, a sly grin on his face as he watched Lu Xun’s retreating back.
Lu Xun noticed; he always did. As Siyan filled them in he was actually rather surprised, he felt that instead of telling him and his sister about Vaplanan court politics they were instead being retold their own experiences and knowledge dealing with the pirate families. Nothing was truth, everything was a façade, the real truth wrapped in so much dressing that one’s instincts had to be so on point to know immediately from the slightest expression or tone of voice. To not have those instincts led to backstabbing and death. Lu Xiang even raised an eyebrow.
“I did not expect to come here to find the political games of our rival families and underlings playing out before us. Perhaps father and mothers’ realms were not so different after all”
The bluntness and insulting nature of his sister’s comment made Lu Xun smirk with a highly amused gesture.
“It truly is just like home. We may fit in well here more than we thought, besides I am used to being scrutinised, to show a moment of weakness to the families is to invite betrayal. We shall retire then and prepare for this event” His eyes didn’t stray from Siyan as they withdrew, Lu Xun turning to the others who were with them.
“Be on your guard, things are not as they seem here” His voice was barely above a whisper to Delaith and Oktayu. He knew Siyan was trying to court the Queen, just from the small grin. Oh how the same games played out again and again, it truly must be like this across the galaxy. As they were escorted to their room Lu Xiang began to speak to her brother in sign language.
Do you really intend to marry her?
I can see it being an effective power play to merge our peoples, however she is rather beautiful
And what about me?
I think you would do well of the Vaplanans new military establishment, no? I know you don’t like politics as I do
Very well. Let us prepare
Delaith nodded in response to Fidelias answer, then again for Siyan. He already wondered how things would run this evening between the nobles and their guests. Fortunately 'getting his stories straight' was effectively what he had been made for and so far he had been successful.
The looks Siyan threw towards the queen were not lost on him and neither were the fact that Lu'Xun was unlikely to be particularly pleased about them. This would likely also make it interesting to see how these two would interact. He pondered for a moment, perhaps he should've downloaded additional diplomatic and emphatic sub-AI on their way here, though now it was too late.
"I shall be retreating then, we wish you a successful evening.", he noted, taking note of what the pirate lord told them but not showing any reaction and waiting for either Thalia or Quin to lead them to what they may use to accommodate their guests.
As they wandered off, like Siyans looks, the pirates subtle gesturing did not go without his notice, however, without any reference even he couldn't tell what they were discussing between them. In the end, it was once more time to wait, likely time he would spend on studying what he could find on the noble houses of Vaplana.
If Vaplana had been considered beautiful during the height of the day, then the evening proved breathtaking. The sun slowly retreated beyond the horizon, painting the sky with streaks of orange, pink, and red. Best of all, there was yet no hint of any chill in the air. Perfect weather for a stroll in the countryside, or maybe the beach.
Unfortunately for those gathered in the Palace, it was time to feast. They would be stuck inside sharing pointless small talk, carefully circling each other waiting for the smallest sign of weakness. Fidelia loitered outside of the banquet hall, stood in the sweet spot outside where she was invisible from the room’s many huge arching windows and doors. She had to wait until everyone was present before making her entrance, as per custom. But, for just a single moment, she could gaze over her gardens and appreciate how lucky she was to grow up in such a place. The twins hadn’t been so lucky… That thought brought her sadness. To be denied a birthright and miss out on such peace… It was such a terrible fate.
“Everyone has gathered, Your Majesty.”
It was time.
Queen Fidelia strode into the banquet hall. The room was longer than it was wide with a large dance floor in the centre. Round tables filled the edges of the room where everyone who was anyone sat staring at her. She looked at each table in turn as she passed, just as a queen should, while heading to the top table where she could look down upon them all. That was where her guests sat waiting, the table upon a small stage elevating them above the rest. She took a moment to stand at her seat, being sure to pick out some familiar faces amoung the crowd.
Duke and Duchess Mercia sat on the table closest to the head, the Duke staring directly back at her. Such pride… Siyan was opposite the two, looking on with pride. He would have to learn to hide his feelings better, Fidelia couldn’t help but wonder. There were some other notable people, namely Duke Azarus Laskaris and his great-aunt Lady Echeveria. They had their eyes locked on Lu Xun. Or, more specifically, the stunning necklace displayed proudly around his neck. There was also Duke Vex Navarro, an elderly gentleman and family man. He brought a different nephew, niece or grandchild, to each different event he attended, keen to socialise his huge family with the gathered elite. Today he brought his cousin’s niece Corinna, it seemed. She was very young, only 17, but she seemed especially politically ambitious for someone so distantly related to greatness. At least, that was what Fidelia had been told.
Once the Queen took her seat servants flooded the room, taking a huge assortment of dishes to each table. Chatter finally replaced the silence that stood before, and everyone gathered seemed to relax just a little.
Lu Xun had stood watching from a window out across the gardens, the colours of the sunset running into one another and soothing him. He had seen holographics of this moment much of his life, but nothing quite compared to seeing it himself.
"Brother it is time" He nodded to himself and turned, making sure his necklace was visible and smiled to Lu Xiang.
"Then lets show them their future"
The twins stayed close to Fidelia, eyes constantly scanning and on alert for danger. Lu Xun couldn't help but smile to any noble who looked at them with clearly concealed distain, especially Lady Echeveria, who didn't even seem to be hiding it anymore.
It was all like some kind of dream, a huge royal banquet, beautiful architecture, legions of nobles and impressive outfits. These were the focus of tales recounted by their mother, and it made both of the twins happy they could experience it in person. Taking their seats both Lu Xiang and Lu Xun handled themselves to perfect Vaplanan custom, both sitting at the same time as if orchestrated, placing hands upon table but not elbows and sitting up perfectly straight. It was like they were born here. It was all about image and perception, that transcended this place and was true for their own domain too.
"Quite the show your majesty, this is all rather impressive, like the old tales of our mother" Lu Xun quietly spoke.
"If there is one thing we Vaplanans are good at, it is putting on a good show." Fidelia smiled. The twins were exceeding her expectations, the way they had clearly done their homework and perfected their facades to be here was certainly a welcome surprise. It would make swaying the nobles from their dislike for them easier, for sure. But... was that really a good thing? Fidelia knew she was playing with fire just inviting them here. She couldn't help but notice that they seemed to be almost a better fit for this life than she was. It would surely only be a matter of time before the others noticed, and if she hadn't won the twins's loyalty by then it would surely be all over for her.
"I am glad we are meeting your expectations. It may be too early to make such a guess, but I see you both fitting in well here if that would be your desire. Once they get to know you better I'm sure they will stop hating you. Openly, at least." Fidelia gestured to the nobles feasting below.
"I want to see you both happy and fulfilled. If it not too personal, please do tell me what I could do for both of you to achieve this. It is the least I can do to make up for the damage done to your family by us."
By the time the queen and the twins arrived, Delaith had already been sitting at the front table. As per custom, as one of the guests (and the lowest ranking one,) he had been introduced earlier and was then allowed to the top table.
"Delaith Vargen, Representative of the mercenary company 'Advanced Paramilitary Solutions'" The speaker had noted and it garnered quite a number of both curious and concerned looks, logical, considering his kind was rare on this planet and under this government, unspoken words coming out of eyes that observed him, wondering if he could be useful to them.
He was quite certain there would be at least one person who would try to make him an offer this evening, though it still was some time until then.
Regardless, as his name was called he had bowed to the audience with educated and experienced excellence and then made his way to the table without giving them any more attention than necessary just yet. He was actually wearing a new suit now, one that had been recommended when he was in his preparation for the event, fortunately he had a fairly standard size so it wasn't much of an issue to find one.
"It certainly is an impressive event so far.", he noted in response to Fidelia.
"It is unfortunate Ok could not attend this evening."
The Kel'thulian had apparently received a call from his homeworld and had not been seen again since, although his presence had still been announced, so was that he was unable to attend, as such he was currently alone with the queen and the twins.
"Oh I don't doubt it" Lu Xiang muttered causing her brother to smile.
"People never stop hating us your majesty, even openly in some cases" He grinned. He nodded to Delaith as he took a seat and mentioned that Ok had returned home. He didn't blame the man, the mercenaries and representatives had been through a great deal on this chase.
"I could tell you a few things that would make us feel happy and fulfilled but I am not sure it would be the time or the relative place your majesty to say such things in front of guests" Lu Xun winked, he was obviously teasing and he flatly made it as obvious as possible as to cause Siyan trouble.
"Perhaps, who knows, in time our cultures may even respect one another however I think a lot will have to be done to repair that damage" Lu Xiang finally spoke up.
"So what's on the menu then? I assume your not going for the pirate custom of your greatest enemies head on a plate this time around your majesty?" Lu Xun was blatantly enjoying himself.
“It is a shame Ok'ta'yu could not join us, indeed. Let us hope his journey home is uneventful.” Fidelia had been a little disappointed by the diplomat’s sudden departure, she had wanted to get to know his people a little better. But, thinking about all that had happened recently on Aedleshaven, maybe it would be for the best…
Fidelia couldn’t help but catch Siyan’s eye as she was gazing across the hall. He was acting rather anti-social, not at all like himself. He seemed to only have eyes for the head table which was a huge snub to those he was seated with… She would have to ask if he was feeling at all under the weather later on. She was pulled back to earth by Lu Xun. He had seriously stepped up his flirting game, and while Fidelia did not outwardly act flustered she had never had anyone flirt so outwardly with her before.
She decided to shoot him a sly look to inform him of the unspoken line he was dancing on.
“If you say things like that within earshot of the other guests you will bring nothing but scandal to your name, Lu Xun.” Fidelia chuckled. After the initial shock at the boldness, she decided she was surprisingly fond of the tactic. It was never something a Vaplanan suitor would attempt since such flirtatious displays of affection were an uncomfortable subject in public view. Queen Fidelia could not help but wonder what else was different between Vaplanan and End of the Line’s culture…
“I have no doubt reconciliation will be a long road, but please know I am eager to begin the process. However, I am sorry to say we certainly do not serve anyone’s head on a platter.” She rolled her eyes. She was so desperately trying to make progress with Lu Xiang, but her brother was making it rather… difficult. She could not take matters so seriously when he was being such a jokester right next to her!
There was a large platter of food available for the guests to try. The centrepiece was a large cut of succulent Vaplanan beef adorned with many rare herbs and edible flowers found only on Vaplana. To go with it there were vegetables of many colours. If beef was not favoured, the guests also had a choice between fresh fish, colourful vegetable soup, or an impressively tall layered pasta dish. For dessert came many different pastries filled with different sweet flavours, a brilliant pink jelly served with cream, and the centrepiece being a four-tiered cake decorated with a waterfall of orange orchids, the ones the group had seen earlier that had once-upon-a-time been the symbolic flower of the Pinnome Royal Family, together with lavender flowers, Fidelia’s symbol. She looked to the twins discreetly, hoping that her boldness had won some affection. The act certainly had divided her nobles, all below murmuring to each other and shooting their Queen confused or concerned glances. They all know what she meant by doing that, but did the twins?
Once the food was over the tables were quickly cleared so the mingling and dancing could begin. The music swelled and couples took to the floor, and it seemed the invisible barrier between the top table and the others melted. Everyone was now free to approach whom they pleased. Duke Mercia did not wait around, he immediately made moves to attract Delaith’s attention.
"My dear Queen you don't live the life of a pirate king without a good scandal to get the blood running every so often" He grinned devilishly.
At the sight of the food both twins seemed impressed. Lu Xiang even had a hint of a smile looking at the cake, but surprisingly she took he vegetable soup option, happily digging in and enjoying it.
"You know, my sister isn't a meat eater. She gets that from our mother, it may surprise you to know she did not like to eat meat and only did so publicly to keep up appearances. I myself dont really mind, but its interesting to think about, many things get hidden to play the part in politics, it makes me not want to bother with it all sometimes" Lu Xun told Fidelia while they were out of earshot of his sister. He himself went for the beef, giving a look of real contentment as he tucked in. They both had some of the cake, Lu Xiang taking time to appreciate the artistry.
"I enjoy cooking and cake making, I can tell real passion went into this meal" She commented out loud "It is greatly appreciated, my thanks to the chefs"
"Mm I too very much enjoyed that thank you, your majesty. It was a nice touch. The decorations are far more subtle than I am used to but that just keeps my eyes sharp."
Lu Xiang seemed to enjoy sitting and relaxing while Lu Xun was clearly eager to discuss more with the queen, though he watched Mercia make his way over to the table.
"Say your majesty, have you experienced much of space?"
Delaith had been listening to the conversation between the Queen and the Twins, though himself mostly remained silent, the courting and prodding between the two sides was outside of his responsibilities even though the outcome would likely have its own set of consequences for him.
During the banquet he seemed to take a piece of the proverbial 'main event' but notably otherwise stuck to the more exotic options on the menu, though this time mostly out of personal curiosity rather than any sort of secondary thoughts on how it may display himself. The fact that Lu Xiang seemed to be a vegetarian was a surprise even to him though, one never ceased to learn new things.
Taking note of the Duke approaching he looked at the queen and the twins for a moment then nodded, he'd be leaving the table for the moment as not to disturb the Queen and the Twins, although from what he read from Duke Mercia, he would likely take no issue to that.
"It appears my attention is desired elsewhere, I wish all of you a pleasant event."
He stood up and put his chair back in place silently then approached the Duke and bowed elegantly as a greeting.
"A fine day to you and my greetings, Duke Mercia if memory serves correctly, yes?", his voice was probing but the tone perfectly polite, he wondered what would come of this.
"Indeed, indeed. Good evening to you, Mr Vargen. I hope you have been treated well during your stay on Vaplana." The Duke placed a hand between Delaith's shoulder blades and gently led him away from the top table, towards a secluded corner of the ballroom.
"I trust you have been adequately compensated for your work?" He took two drinks from a passing waiter, passing one to the 'mercenary' before taking a sip. "Pardon my boldness, but what are your plans when this event is over? I suspect the Queen has many jobs lied up for you, considering how you took such an important role in assisting her Captain." The Duke was asking questions, but the look in his eyes implied that he knew exactly what Delaith would say before he even replied.
Fidelia had felt such a sense of relief when her guests voiced such praise for her feast. Her army of cooks and bakers were certainly going to be greatly rewarded for their efforts, she would personally see to that. When the twins both took and enjoyed some of the cake Fidelia was beaming with joy, the most sincere smile the guests had seen plastered her face. In that moment, nobody else in the room mattered. Not even Siyan scowling in periphery could put a dampener on her joy.
"I wish I could say yes to that question, but in all honesty I have never had the opportunity to leave Vaplana. When I was a girl I was my father's sole heir, and he was not a man to take risks. And now... Well, as you both well know ruling is such a huge responsibility. I am blessed to have Malax at my side to help, but with everything going on right now he insists it would be foolish to leave Vaplana without good cause. He is right, he always is, but I would do anything to see more of what the galaxy as to offer. I'm sure you have both seen so much... Say, what are your favourite places out there?"
Lu Xun raised an eyebrow. Lu Xiang herself gagged for a moment in response to Fidelia.
"You... have never left this planets atmosphere?" The actual shock and clear exasperation in Lu Xiangs voice was palpable.
"That... Surprises me your majesty. With all do respect, I think that's something you ought to fix rather quickly. Space gives you a perspective that nothing else in this universe can. Vaplala is beautiful yes, its vistas unique, but looking down onto a world and seeing it as a tiny marble shows you how vast and awesome this reality is. For my favourite place... I used to enjoy home, Lost Star that is, the old one not the new one. Now, I like to watch the Golden Expanse from the inside, I would like to show you sometime" He smiled.
"I think my favourite place would be Natar, you can get everything you wish there like Lost Star but without the overwhelming nature of that place. I rarely get to go there however" His sister added.
"Say, your majesty. What are your plans later?" A devilish grin crossed Lu Xuns face.
Delaith follow the duke without resistance. He had brought up an interesting point, he had indeed not been paid yet. On the other hand, had he returned the amulet? Uncertain. Would he be busy after this evening? Most certainly, regardless of what the evening held.
However, none of that was the dukes business really.
Delaith smiled mysteriously in response and sipped from the offered drink with dignity.
"Ah, certainly an interesting question is it not? But, as we both know, in my business, secrecy is a value that is worth it's proverbial weight in gold. I cannot disclose any of this information to you and it is most likely I will not be available after this evening."
He paused for a moment for effect, then continued.
"However, it is rather obvious, that a company does not consist of a single man. I'm sure if there is something you are interested in, or other information you wish to acquire, we can surely come to an agreement."
He already had his suspicions as to what the Duke wanted, after all he had prepared before the evening, he had heard the rumours that the Duke had run into controversy after building up a 'private security' detachment to protect his assets.
"What about you? If I may ask, I hear house Mercia is quite sizeable in the tourism business? How has the market been developing since... well, as of late?"
The Duke let out a short chuckle before taking another sip. "It is refreshing to meet a man who values discretion as much as I. It is a rare thing in these halls. Many would spill whatever secrets necessary to serve their own ends. With an attitude like that, I have no doubt that you will indeed be incredibly popular after this evening." Mercia wore a wide grin, much more real-looking than his practiced smiles shown earlier.
"You are proving to also be wise, Mr Vargen. My business may look infallible from the outside currently, but as we all know the war will catch up to all eventually. I am already beginning to witness the first signs of a dip in profits. But that is of no concern to me, I have much larger and longer-term issues to ponder. Issues I was hoping to have your assistance with, if I am capable of outbidding my competitors for your time. Name your price, Delaith Vargen."
Fidelia looked shocked at the twins' extreme reaction to her confession. Most Vaplanan rulers had never left the atmosphere, in fact the twins' mother was only one of a handful who had seen space with their own eyes. Many preferred to leave that business to their diplomats and Prime Ministers. But, if Fidelia was ever to be the best Queen she could be, should she not also aim to experience everything she could? Gain as much knowledge and insight into affairs larger than her small homeworld? Thinking about it like that, it was shameful to admit her failings. Her blind acceptance of tradition, always being good and doing as she was told... It was no wonder so many in her court looked upon her as weak. She pouted, a dejected look in her eyes.
"Those places seem wonderful, I truly hope to find an opportunity to see more one day. It must be so liberating, being able to go wherever you wish..." At that moment Siyan approached the top table looking concerned. He did not interrupt the conversation, it would be a great offence to his Queen to do so, but he looked as if he wanted to interrupt with every passing moment. He clearly did not like seeing Fidelia upset.
"Plans? After dancing tonight I have nothing scheduled..." Siyan opened his mouth to speak, but Fidelia shot him a filthy look over Lu Xun's shoulder. As much as she cared for her friend, she would not let him meddle now. The evening had been progressing much better than she had ever even dreamed to hope, and Siyan had made his reservations more than clear in the build up. Fidelia was certainly not in the mood to hear it. Siyan, at this, had a rather sour look on his face. Confusion, hurt, betrayal, but most of all jealousy.
Delaith pondered for a moment.
Having the favour of a man as important as Duke Mercia was certainly an interesting prospect, his influence could help the APS and by extension the Network take foot in Vaplana.
However, he was still here as a guest of the queen and from his research he knew Duke Mercia was not a person that liked to hear that he was not the top priority. On the other hand...
He looked over to the table of the Queen and Pirates out of the corner of the eye.
It did not look like the queen would be needing any of his assistance on this evening at least, so he could likely spare a few hours or some in the next few days, if that was not possible. He'd have to be smart about how he worded his response...
"Oh, that wholly depends on how urgently you wish to discuss the topic! I'm sure I can spare an hour or two after this event, we could talk right here if you so wish and the matter is not too confidental, then I could give you an estimate of the involved commitments. However..."
He paused for effect and lowered his voice.
"My company focuses on specialist deployments, tasks that require experience or delicacy and we both know, these sorts of matters are best discussed in private and with due preparation. My offer would be... that YOU pick a date past this event and in turn I will make sure I or one of my close confidants will be freely and readily available to discuss all of the details at your leisure."
Lu Xun couldnt help but smirk at the rebuttal by the Queen. He knew this Siyan had interest in her, likely a close choice for courtier. But the Pirate King had his own plans, and he didnt like the man Siyan, not at all. Something felt off about him.
"I can attest that they are indeed wonderful your majesty. Perhaps you would like to accompany me there sometime? Fret not, I am not my father, there wont be any kidnapping this time at the least" He chuckled to himself, Lu Xiang smiled as she eat.
"But, more importantly, if you have nothing scheduled... I would be most honoured to show you first hand your own world. To clarify, you have seen the beauty down here, the grass, the trees, the sky, but you have not seen how truly stunning it is from above. If you would permit me, I would show you space. Of course I understand security concerns, I would be willing to use a Vaplanan vessel and have your guard accompany us. But I believe in order to rule something, you should truly appreciate all of it, and how can you do that when you only have seen part of the picture?" He gestured with his hand to make a globe shape, his voice being as enticing as possible.
>Started analyzation of pendant 'Key'
>Origin?
>Traces lead to GE.
>Perhaps Nakai? Or other ancient civilization?
>Analyzation complete.
>New directive, stay with targets Alpha, and Beta. Find origin or target of key. Report.
>Rebooting LaylakPrime.exe
Laylak turned his head from side to side. His vision filled with readouts and a synopsis of what happened while he was 'away.' He had hoped to figure out more, but what he had found was more than enough for now. He obviously wasn't eating, but opted to interject.
"The view from space is quite magnificent! When I was first off the assembly line and sent to war the view of the homeworld was quite dashing!" Laylak gave a chuckle, and returned to silence. He was a bodyguard first, but an occasional jovial comment always help make the vantablack war robot far less intimidating.
"That is a suitable arrangement," Duke Mercia pulled another of his business cards from a pocket and quickly noted a date and time next to the address before handing it to Delaith. "I would rather hope to see you personally, but I understand that men like us are in high demand. You, or an accomplished colleague of yours, are more than welcome to visit my company's head office to discuss this business further."
The Duke took one last triumphant sip of his drink.
"I thank you for taking the time out of this celebration to talk business with me. I wish you a pleasant stay here in paradise, Mr Vargen." With a parting gesture, the Duke merged back into the crowd, likely heading back to his table to tell his dear wife the good news.
"You all are rather convincing, how could I ever say no to three such glowing testimonials! Even if there is a more than slight risk of kidnapping, I now simply cannot help myself. I would be honoured to accept your generous invitation!" The Queen beamed, much to Siyan's clear and growing horror. "Quin will be more than sufficient as an escort, wouldn't you say dear Siyan?"
"I would personally offer to also accompany you, Your Majesty... Quin's skill is well known, it is true, but he is still only one man."
"Siyan, don't flatter yourself." Fidelia scoffed, waving a hand at him dismissively. "You are no trained knight. My dear friend yes, but unfortunately not trained. As my friend I would never ask for such a thing, it would not be honourable nor would it be right. Liliya would never forgive me for demeaning you like that."
"It is settled, then?" Fidelia turned back to Lu Xun. "I don't feel it necessary to bring anyone else, I trust you would consider me far too demanding to kidnap me, being a Queen and all." Fidelia noticed out of the corner of her eye, Duke Laskaris and Lady Echeveria approach the top table, their eyes locked onto Lu Xun and his necklace. That was one bag of worms Fidelia certianly did not want to even approach. Desperate measures must be taken immediately...
"Lu Xun, let us seal the deal with a dance, if you will allow me the pleasure." Fidelia rose to her feet quickly, offering her hand to him. She kept her back to the approaching nobles. She could not meet their eyes, or she would be bound to stay and hear them out. She just hoped Lu Xun would get the hint, and Lu Xiang would be content seeing the pair off if they had the confidence to speak to her.
Delaith nodded courtly as the Duke disappeared into the crowd, that was this dealt with and another potential contact secured, he would have to see to the meeting itself going well later but that was not an immediate issue.
He looks around in silence for a couple moments longer though it seemed the Dukes approach had, at least for the moment, kept the other guest from approaching him, so he returned to the table, just in time to watch Lu Xun leave with Queen Fidelia for a dance, as Lu Xiang watched.
He pondered for a moment.
Why not? It would be a good way to foster relations and even if the Pirate queen did not seem to be the most amicable person, he had already been surprised once this evening. It may also help mend relations with the locals. Which would be in the interests of the both of them.
He bowed formally with a display of all the necessary respect and then offered a hand.
"May I interest you in a dance as well?"
His voice was formal and almost businesslike, he was uncertain on how exactly to approach the situation but continued regardless, this time in a softer, lowered, tone.
"Though I am not not one of the nobles or one to court queens, I am certain it would be preferable to sitting on the proverbial and literal serving tray all evening."
His gaze moved to the side in a telling manner, where the nobles sat, stood and danced behind him, many of them observing the table of the queen with various degress of more or less concealed interest.
"Besides... If we are here we may as well enjoy the evening."
"A wise and most progressive descision Queen Fidelia. I do think that Quinlan is most suited for the escort, I have gotten to know him and trust him as well I am sure if we are suddenly attacked in the void both his and my sword will be more than adequate protection for your highness" Lu Xun's sly grin was palpable, and he didn't even try to hide it from Siyan.
"I am sure if your majesty did wanted to be kidnapped I could arrange something melodramatic and daring. But I am eager to show you the wonders of both the universe and your world" He bowed slightly. Lu Xiang rolled her eyes over her brothers comments, but the two twins had not been unaware of the approaching of the Duke and Lady. They knew well these were the ones they had stolen the necklace from, or rather taken it back from.
Lu Xun beamed and took the Queens hand, standing up and straightening his garmants "It would be an honour your majesty. Come on Layak, if your back maybe you can find a good dance too" He laughed. Lu Xiang did not get up, she seemingly was quite eager to tell the nobles her opinions, a potentially dangerous proposition. That was until Delaith offered her his hand.
Lu Xiang was quite taken aback for a moment, defensive but then seemed quite pleased. She admired the mans tenacity and outright confidence to approach her, not even the majority of the Pirate lords would dare to do that.
"I am impressed. I accept" She rose from her seat, smiling to the Duke and Lady as she took Delaiths hand.
Laylak paused for a long moment sitting at the table, before the large mechanized man stood. Looking down to the chair to make sure he hadn't broken it. His mechanical face had no emotion to show but his mannerisms were quite peppy. His legs would be utterly silent strangely if not for the loud thudding of his weight. Truly a bot that had yet to be seen by most. He approached the duke, and gave a courtesy. Taking off his top hat and twirling it as he moved it to his chest. "Most esteemed Duke Mercia, I couldn't help but notice your utter extravagance! How you carry yourself, why! I almost thought you were the queen for a moment." Laylak gave a chortle. Both of the twins knew more than well by now while he took his job rather seriously, he was sometimes too much of a joker. "May I interest you in a dance my lord?"
As Delaith headed to the dance floor with Lu Xiang he already listened in to the music which was playing, nodding politely towards other passing guests though giving no further mind or reaction should there be any odd looks thrown their way.
Arriving at a convenient spot to start he made the first steps, first slowly to get a feel of what the pirate queen was capable of, though he assumed that amongst other things their mother may have taught them to dance as well, even if this sort of event may not exactly be common amongst her kind.
As they began to dance threw a couple of looks into the surroundings to gauge to overall situation, seeing Laylak approach the duke he could not shake a mild amusement but then eventually focused on his dance partner.
"So, what do you say? A rather curious event so far, many things I did not expect already occurred today, what are your thoughts on the evening? Given your heritage, did the End of the Line ever have any such events? If I may ask."
Duke Mercia had just sat down with his wife when he saw the huge robot approach. He looked up at Laylak with a hint of disdain in his eyes. A loyal lackey of the pirates was not someone whom he could consider useful. Then the bot opened his proverbial mouth... His wife Duchess Danuella couldn't help but chuckle a little at the jokes. The Duke, on the other hand, looked to be holding back pure fury. He shot his wife a sharp look, to which she quickly wiped the smile from her face and looked into her lap. To be 'mistaken' for a woman offended him to his core, no matter how complimentary that was. And, to top it off, Laylack had not even bothered to learn how to address someone of his standing correctly! He had not been called a Lord for decades, before his son had been born even!
"It is Your Grace to you." He spat, the other nobles at his table eyeing the couple with hungry eyes. Laylak, for a robot, had seemed so friendly and cheery to the others at the table, and for the Duke to speak in that tone was a shameful display. i would never lower myself to dance with a ma-" His wife, being the socialite she was, noticed their fellow nobles's surprised and gleeful expressions. She knew what was going to happen, ruours of her husband's rude demeanour would spread like wildfire if she did not smother it now. She grabbed his sleeve under the table and yanked hard, his ear now in line with her mouth.
"Zaros, people are watching. Being rude to a guest is unsightly behaviour, I suggest you swallow your damned pride for two fucking minutes if you care even at all about our family's reputation." She hissed before letting her husband go. He straightened himself, took a breath, and looked back up at Laylak.
"I apologise, I do not know what came over me. I would be glad to have a dance..." The Duke looked a little sour, like a teen being forced to talk to their boring older relatives, but let himself be led to the dancefloor all the same.
Back at the head table the Duke Laskaris and Lady Echeveria looked furiously at the retreating backs of everyone worth talking to. The snub, while seen as innocuous by most of the gathered elite, was taken as incredibly offending by the snubbed parties. They would not forget that moment... And, neither would Siyan Severa. Being the only noble left at the top table, he decided he would be the one to talk to the Laskaris family. The three of them shared a cold greeting before all three of them left the ballroom together, looking much more friendly towards each other as they left to the gardens.
Fidelia and Lu Xun took to the floor. Fidelia, having been tutored in all manner of dances since she could walk, picked up the pace of the song with ease. She let herself be guided silently for a while, subtlety matching her steps to Lu Xun's capability so she would not outshine him by an extortionate amount. She was not here to humiliate, but she did need to look at least a little better than him in the eyes of her people. It was a delicate art, courtly dancing, one Fidelia had been mastering her entire life.
"So, if I asked it of you, you would organise a kidnapping then?" She broke the silence when she felt like both were comfortable with the pacing and the steps. She chuckled a little, trying to imagine how being 'kidnapped' would turn out. She came to the conclusion that it would be rather exciting, if not incredibly foolish. "It would have to be dramatic, you know, a story that would be immortalised by playwrights across the galaxy. Otherwise it would be rather dissapointing..." She wondered then, if the stories about Queen Ismini's kidnapping were correct, why no stories of her time with the pirates had ever been written. Even stories twisted to make Vaplana look better would have been normal, even expected from such a huge moment in Vaplanan history, but there was nothing... Had someone tried to cover it all up? Maybe, there was a precedent there. Image is crucial on Vaplana, after all...
Lu Xiang made no attempt to look fancy or approachable as they neared the dance floor, in fact her movements were precise and cold like a stalking predator. She kept her gaze away from the nobles, as if she was above them. Still when Delaith started to move to the music, she loosened up entirely, becoming extremely lithe and flowing like water. It seemed she knew this song, and the guess had been correct, she did very well know how to dance.
"We have always held events like this, but they are always much rougher affairs and usually have some kind of bloodshed. It is a refined event, one that brings me... Joy and sorrow on the part of my mothers stories. But I know we are being watched carefully, more than most here would like us dead." Her voice was kept to a whisper.
Lu Xun had too danced courtly dances his entire life, they were a staple on Vaplana and their mother had started them young. Like Lu Xiang he studied the song and knew it well, taking the Queen through typical opening stages of dances usually found to this song, his movements were graceful and precise. He wasnt trying to show the queen off or impress her just yet, merely to give the other nobles a sense of relief. He knew Vaplanan custom, one did not show off intense moves at the start of a dance.
"Well I could hardly refuse now could I?" Lu Xun smirked at the final breaking of the silence, he wanted her to be comfortable.
"Oh I am sure I could orchestrate something so historic it would be told from the Invilis Corridor to this side of the Killian Verge. It would definately be something to remember" He glanced briefly to the nobles watching "But not for this world. I think you understand that" his comment showed he was more than capable of reading her expressions, he too was thinking of Queen Ismini and the events which transpired.
"Fascinating, a pirate organisation with a royal court and dancing events."
There was no mockery in his voice.
Delaith, seeing as Lu Xiang was in fact quite capable began to pick up the pace on the dance, though seemingly without passion, every step he made was precise and experienced.
"I would assume it is less so a murderous intent and more a fear of a change on the horizon. Not that one excludes the other, I suppose. Many things have occurred in the past months and years, a war is raging, ominous organisations move in the shadows, now pirates wish to claim the throne of their homeland?"
The evening had been entertaining so far, an event far removed from his usual tasks and duties, even if this was only a satellite body.
He paused for a moment, then allowed himself a thin smile.
"A bit like isolated children perhaps."
He let her go into a spin for moment only to catch her again afterwards.
"Though in that they are no different from a lot of the other nobility, those here are comparatively tame, at least so far."
Laylak had seriously debated simply denying the Duke for further insult to him. He glanced over to his charges. Both capable, but both his job to protect. Dispite his core function being infiltration, the twins had grown on him. Especially Lu Xiang. Something about her reminded him of his creators.
He turned back to the duke and took the mans hand. Gently guiding him to the ball, and making a point to take the traditionally male role in the dance with the duke.
Duke Mercia seethed. He had attempted to take the lead in the dance multiple times, but to no avail. Laylak's larger frame was overpowering, and the Duke did not like being overpowered. Their dance was awkward and jarring, much more like a wrestle for dominance than anything graceful.
"So why have you dragged me out here? I presume there is something you wish to discuss away from prying ears, that would be the only reasonable excuse to put on such a farce." He hissed into Laylak's ear. "Look, I am a businessman before all else, even though you have acted the fool I am willing to look past that if you can offer something of value."
"You're right. Even though my people traditionally devour a good story, I do not think that particular series of events would go down well... It has not in the past for certain." Fidelia found dancing with Lu Xun easier than she expected. Before when she had danced with new partners she found it took at least a few rounds for the pair to find their flow and get used to each other's bodies. But with him it came so naturally. But that train of thought was a distraction!
"Your mother is well respected, even now after all her son did to our people. The more I discover about her, not the image the old Government curated but the real her, I feel more and more sorrow. This institution stole her away from the life she clearly desired, the people she cherished... And forced a new life upon her. Queen Ismini is portrayed as strong and steadfast, fearless, but most importantly a proud Vaplanan. While some of that may be true, I do not think this country held her heart as is claimed." She looked up at Lu Xun, taking in his expression before continuing, as if she was unable to stop herself.
"This re-writing of history, of people, is not something new here. It happens all of the time, to all of us. Even my family was torn apart by it..." The Queen stopped then, turning her gaze back to over Lu Xun's shoulder. She could not bear to look another person in the eye in that moment, ashamed that she had not only been unable to stop herself in time but also for letting slip about the number one taboo topic of her court. The composure she was renowned for had slipped for the briefest of moments, but even that second was enough for a crack to form.
Despite there being no mockery, Lu Xiang shot Delaith a glare.
"Change leads to power, power corrupts those with weak wills. It is the job of those who are strong willed do what is necessary to protect the greater whole. Facets which jeapordise that need to be removed, as do those who seek power for personal gain. That is why there is bloodshed at our events" She went along with his dance.
"We are isolated children, and this is our homeland. It is our right, and it is only fair we who are strong willed protect it from those who are not" She looked at the nobles around them "Make no mistake. We openly display our brutality, I bet those here are far more murderous behind closed doors than we ever would be. Secrecy breeds malice like no other"
"My... Half brother. Was a spoilt weak willed fool. She never wanted him, you can tell that from the briefest of expressions on her face in video and picture. She loved him, she was a loving woman. But you are right not to believe the image they made of her. She never wanted to come back here without my father, without us. This institution threatened retribution. It still had a military back then, it was very much intending to use it" He looked much more stern now but in a way that came off to others looking on them as if they were having a serious conversation, to be expected all things considering.
Lu Xun seemed to respond to her comment, he had no idea that she herself had been subject to the very same thing he had. Vaplanan history was very careful to curate the perfect image, but that admission told him more than anything could have. It told him he really knew nothing about Fidelia, and it shocked him how much that suddenly didnt surprise him, how did he not see it before? If they had paved over the image of his other, why would they not do so to her?
"I am sorry. Revisionism is terrible, something we ourselves never do. Stories have power, truth and history have power. Perhaps it is time Vaplana really learnt that" She could tell he had fire and anger in those words. Did her own plight affect him that much?
"Interesting. I was more referring to the Vaplanans as the isolated children, but one could justifiedly interpret it your way as well."
Delaith noted between steps.
"It is correct many abuse secrecy to further their own gains, words spoken behind closed curtains often lead to betrayal and treachery. No question it is the case on this planet as well, no matter how clean and rosy it may look on the surface.
However, I would say, as many things, secrecy is a tool. It can be useful, so long as it is used with caution and the right goals instead of spreading lies."
He paused, his eyes wandering to the ceiling in thought, without stopping or even slowing the dance or making any mistake. Then returning, looking Lu Xiang in the Eyes.
"Though I suppose that is the same one who abuses secrecy would say as well, would they not? It makes me curious, which side would you take me for? If there is any difference to you in that regard. I suppose based on your actions and opinions so far your thoughts should be quite open, should they not?"
Laylak was tempted to laugh, and just continue dancing. In fact he actually wanted to, but his core directives disallowed it. This was an opportunity he was forced to take.
"Why of course Baron. I offer resources, information, anything you desire. So long as you aid my employeers in getting an in. And they are not the EOTL." He chuckled, keeping his voice low. Reading off a frequency, a well outdated one too. He had been in cover for so long it was not like he was getting updates. "VLKIAN09846"
...Baron? Baron?! Duke Mercia looked as if he were to explode, his face contorted in an expression of pure rage. He was about to give up on the attempted façade of 'pleasantries', give this jokester a piece of his mind, but Laylak's last words quickly changed all of that. For a brief moment, there was silence. Duke Mercia had just become privy to the hottest new secret, and as much as he hated Laylak he was not one to pass an opportunity so fruitful.
"Well, that changes everything." His posture immediately relaxed, now happy to let Laylak push him around the dancefloor. "I would be careful whom you spill such secrets to, not everybody will be as willing to keep quiet as I. Tell me, double agent, what do your employers stand for? After all, I am only willing to work with those who share my values."
Fidelia was a little shocked, to put it honestly. She hadn't at all meant to open up as much as she had, she thought letting anyone have a glimpse of such matters would lead to nothing but disaster, but it seemed that was not at all the case. They were still dancing and having, all things considered, a good time. Lu Xun's emotional reaction was also a pleasant surprise, and a very good sign for a future relationship of some kind. He was, in her opinion, a kind and empathetic man under his hard exterior. A respectable trait, admirable even.
"Revisionism is, unfortunately, the backbone of this society. For what else do we have, if not the perfect image to show the rest of the galaxy? How else would we draw people here to our little slice of paradise? It is a sorry state of affairs, one I wish I could change indeed, but i fear this is far too engrained into my people's psyche to alter without consequence.
You are lucky, Lu Xun. You have your sister by your side to rule with, you share your strength with her and she with you. You're a team, and together I am sure you can conquer any challenge. I am not so lucky. Ruling alone is a burden. I fulfil my duty, and I would have my life no other way don't get me wrong, but I wish I could have the unconditional love and support I had when I had family."
Lu Xiang was put off by Delaiths interpretation.
But she had no hesitation of answering his question truthfully.
"A mercenary who conviently ends up in the middle of all this, chooses to stay with us and now dances with one of the heads of End of the Line at the Vaplanans royal event with access to some of the most powerful individuals from two nations? I take you for someone with a very broad mission working for someone with large sweeping goals. I don't believe who you say you are and I think that makes it clear my views of the matter" Her stern words did not affect their flow in the dance.
"Your majesty, you are the queen of this supposed paradise, the strong core to that backbone. If anyone can enact change it is you, I may be lucky to have my sister, she can be troublesome at times but I also find it far easier when my subordinates try to stab me in the front" He smiled.
"If ruling alone is such a burden, why not make a new family? Build a foundation you can trust, if you are to pardon my language, fuck the political games. Choose people who you trust implicitly and build from there. I may have to deal with coups and rogue elements, but my underlings respect and trust me. If your immediate powerbase cannot do that, then it is no powerbase, it is a prison with you placed atop a pedestal and should it waver you will fall. Sometimes, you must knock it down yourself and rebuild it"
"Interesting.", was the only thing Delaith noted in response for a while, which was no real answer, as expected.
She was correct, in a way, certainly impressive, even without him making too much of an effort to hide his nature, perhaps she really could be more useful than he'd anticipated.
"Your reputation is that of a dreaded and cunning pirate queen, though personally speaking I would say one of your most notable qualities is the intelligence which dwells beneath this surface." It was a compliment, in a way, unexpectedly, it also answered her suspicion without outright telling her, though it was uncertain if this was patronising or not. However, what followed would overshadow that reveal quite easily. He needed her trust, perhaps not all but at least some of it, he was well aware this could backfire, but given her attitude so far, she did not seem someone to sell others out if they hadn't done her any wrong, quite the opposite in fact, but trust was only built with trust.
"What if I were to tell you the organisation I work for? The name would tell you nothing and there is a good chance you never even heard of them.
We hunt shadows others perceive only from the corner of their eyes, until they eventually devour the galaxy. I'm sure with your experience you are aware there are many things out there, which cannot be negotiated with and can be outrun for only so long. We are... A shield, if you will, that is all I can tell you, for now."
He fell silent continuing the dance without interruption or error.
What he said was strange and probably would've marked anyone else a madman or an idiot, though searching in his eyes, she saw no mockery, no jest, he was in fact dead serious. This man who had clad himself in lies and deception just offered her a drop of the truth, against all her expectations, which was perhaps the strangest thing that happened on this already strange evening.
Laylak kept the dance going but his tone became less jovial, and far more hushed and serious. "Profit above all else, but most importantly stability. Everything rests on it, no? It is something to discuss with them, I am not allowed to say more, but... Well let me say Kings have been put on the throne by us more than once. Accept, or decline... I'd say give it a fair shake. I don't regret it myself, made me one wealthy AI. Pardon the act Duke, it is necessary."
Laylaks words were laced with half truths and falsities, but lucky for him he had no expressions to give away the lies. His attention was still occasionally darting between the twins. Despite his true purpose here, the AI was still protective of them. He even had grown to both quite enjoy their company, and them as people. Especially Lu Xiang, and her general 'firbebrandness'
Duke Mercia was no stanger to this kind of offer. He had been playing this game for decades, and ensnared many ambitious people himself with such a speech. But, he still saw this as an opportunity. He knew there would be some falsities in there, but the allure of finding out exactly which statements were true and which were lies was too strong to resist.
"Well, I am certainly interested in meeting with your employers to discuss this proposition further. While I am not interested in thrones, I am sure that I could offer you and yours something useful for your assistance in reaching my goals. Not that I need you, of course, but more allies are never a bad thing."
Fidelia chuckled. Lu Xun was wiser than she had given him credit for. She could not have described her place in Vaplanan society better herself. Prison... It may sound dramatic, but it had a ring of truth to it. But, thinking more about it, he gave stellar advice. Fidelia made a mental note, this was something that she could certainly work on going forward. She would not be so passive with her staff and advisors anymore, anyone she thought had allegiances elsewhere would slowly be phased out. It would be a big shake up, and require much hard work, but for the improvement of her situation and for the betterment of Vaplana no price was too high.
"You give good advice, even if it is not in your own best interest to do so. Why is that, if I may ask?" Fidelia looked up at Lu Xun, hoping that she could try and read his intentions or emotions from his expression.
"I wouldn't be alive if I didn't have an intelligence labyrinthine enough to outwit all those under me" she took the complement bluntly.
Lu Xiang listened to the man, he could be lying of course. But she knew lying, this wasn't such.
"An invisible organisation that tries to keep the galaxy safe, how noble. Not all of us have such a luxury some of us need to focus on survival. Do you work for the Union of Worlds or something? Seems very up their alley though if you could tell them they have been seriously slacking this past decade that would be handy" She gave a ghost of a smile.
"The real question is you would not have let that slip unless you deliberately knew I would react positively, and that would only be the case if you were interested in me, my brother and more importantly End of the Line. Likely our knowledge, probably about the Expanse given what lurks in there"
Lu Xun made a melodramatic look of self importance and sly pirate king, making him look cartoonish.
"Because your majesty I cant rule such a vast kingdom here on such weak foundations can I?" His voice was exaggerated and deliberately silly "Because I dont want to see the nation that my mother ruled tear itself apart, and because you have a good heart. That in itself, is rare in this galaxy"
As expected.
This time it was Delaiths turn to melodramatically roll his eyes.
"Ah, yes, it always has to be about business, has it not?"
She was right if not fully. He was here on this evening to observe and gather info but not solely, he was also here to gather experiences, something he only rarely found the time for in these days, even if it was only a shard of him.
"Though admittedly, in a way it is and to a degree, you are right, the expanse is a fascinating but deadly place, one hard to navigate even for the most advanced and experienced of nations. As you can likely surmise, our interest in there are less of monetary nature and more about other aspects. I am sure there are many ways in which your and my organisation could benefit of each other and be it only by not standing in each others way. Though that would likely be something to discuss on a less special evening, I would say.
On the other hand I would also like to say that I would like to keep work and entertainment separate, though we both know that is hardly possible."
He shook his head in disappointment, though this time obviously played.
Ironically the Union of worlds was indeed a faction they usually would've contacted early on, though due to how much turmoil it was in for now they stood a safe distance so to say.
An amused smile entered his face as he rose his head again.
"I will make sure to let the Union know the esteemed Pirate Queen Lu Xiang found them lacking, should our paths ever cross with their oh so grand emperor."
Laylak did a flourish to finish the dance off. "The frequency. If you are interested, that is the way, yea?" He took a step back afterwards. Moving towards the edge of the dance floor, and standing fairly close to Lu Xiang. He wasn't concerned about the Queen doing anything, but the strange man concerned him.
He also was confident the woman could take care of herself. But his presnse might be enough on its own.
Duke Mercia knew what came next, but that was for another day. For now he gave Laylak a polite bow and retreated to the edge of the dance floor. He was about to return to his table, to lay low for the rest of the festivities. But, upon seeing the other couples locked together on the floor he decided to have one last meaningful conversation. Maybe it was his arrogance talking, or his boosted confidence from his new prospects, but he set off towards the centre of the dancefloor, his eyes set firmly upon his target.
Queen Fidelia chuckled. "You speak of taking my throne, yet compliment me in the very same breath. I think you need to make your mind up on what exactly it is that you want, Lu Xun, because I guarantee you shall not be getting both." She spoke playfully, trying to tease a straightforward answer from him. Not that she thought she would get one, at least not for now. But she could try. "Actually, I know what you want. You-" Fidelia was cut short by a firm tap on her shoulder. She glanced over, expecting to see Thalia or one of her guard. They were the only people authorised to interrupt her during a dance, especially one this important. But her face immediately soured when she was Duke Mercia stood next to her.
"Zaros. I presume you have a good reason to interrupt me on this fine evening." Fidelia's chirpy and upbeat attitude was immediately gone, replaced by an emotionless mask.
"I wanted to thank you for hosting such an interesting party, Your Majesty." The Duke's tone was dripping with false politeness, a sly grin creeping onto his face. His voice could be heard across the ballroom, he was almost shouting. "Your mother would be so proud, child. If only she could be here to join us..." He spoke to Fidelia, but he was staring at Lu Xun. Waiting for his reaction to what was about to happen, but also silently judging the pirate king on his posture, dress, mannerisms, all in a single moment. You could feel the contempt in the air.
Fidelia immediately tensed up and let go of her dance partner, bringing their pleasant dance to an abrupt end. The atmosphere in the entire ballroom shifted, the couples within clear earshot all stopped their dances and turned to stare at the trio. You could hear a pin drop in such suffocating silence.
"Everything is about business. Down to the very thoughts we have." Lu Xiangs comment made he slightly frown as if she was upset with that truth.
"Then we shall discuss it another time. I never turn down business, as for the Union tell their Emperor he could at least keep them on a tighter leash" She smiled. However her gaze drifted to the commotion as she and Delaith stopped dancing. She very quickly ceased touching the Network Android her body going from someone who at least looked slightly relaxed to someone ready for a total bloodbath. Likely something she had experienced often.
The clear and blatant attempt to disrupt coupled with the barely constrained venom in the Dukes mouth made Lu Xun do something unexpected.
As the entire room became silent and anger welled up in Fidelia with the sudden comment about her mother Lu Xun laughed. Loudly, and deeply.
Even his sister raised an eyebrow, this was not what was typical in such moments. Lu Xun compiled himself for a moment before speaking, loudly but deliberately so.
"With all due respect Duke Mercia, I have seen less brash attempts to break up potential diplomatic talks involving firearms and kidnapping." The statement was outright, it was true in Vaplana social etiquette and the right comment were the difference between social life and death. But Lu Xun knew that game well, only with real life and death. He wasn't going to play it here, he wasn't going to let someone quite clearly disrespect both himself and the Queen.
"But if its a forward point you wish to make..." Lu Xun extended his hand with a slight bow. The same exact Vaplanan Etiqette expected when offering someone a dance. He ever so slightly glanced at Fidelia and winked.
His entire sudden plan was to dance with Mercia, throw off his entire political assault and let Fidelia avoid the direct repocussions or potential fallout by taking it on himself. If the Duke refused his dance it would be seen as a bad show, if he accepted the two could get things out of the way silently and quickly, without the queen needing to take the flak.
Delaith moved in after Lu Xiang, standing behind her at a respectful distance, though close enough to intervene if necessary, preferably without putting the pirate queen on display. He could sense the tension in the air. He had been waiting for something like this to happen and here it was, the question was how far it would go.
Nobles from across Vaplana had been gathered here and doubtlessly this incident would spread without delay to the planets farthest reaches, even if only in whispered words. Though there was more to this situation than just the confrontation between Duke Mercia and Lu Xun. An occassion and situation like this would be ideal for anyone who needed a distraction for other purposes and so he began searching the crowd, the windows, the ceiling even, (with as much subtlety as he could afford) for anything and anyone that might look suspicious and could take advantage of the moment. That could not only be a danger for the Queen, the Twins or anyone else present, though could also be convenient for someone who would like to frame Duke Mercia.
The other part of his attention he kept on Lu Xiang, he was quite certain she was able to handle herself, though that very same fact sprouted the question whether she was able to restrain herself, given how close the siblings bond was. A diplomatic incident could prove fatal, whether she'd like to admit it or not.
Laylak remained silent, he was no master of diplomacy after all. He casually walked closer to the edge of the dance floor. Scanning the crowd and preparing to fight if he needed to. He had confidence in his men to likely do the same. He folded his hands in front him, placing himself as equal of a distance between the two siblings as he could.
If things did go poorly, he'd be prepared.
Everyone in the ballroom, nobles and staff alike watched on with growing unease. Lu Xun had made the perfect response, but how would the Duke react? He was looking down at Lu Xun, who was bowed before him with an extended arm. You could almost see the glee in his eyes, he knew every second of silence was an extra moment where he held the full attention of those in attendance, all of the power. All of the control. He dragged his 'contemplation' out for as long as he could without making himself look slow-witted.
"Now, whoever said I was disrupting anything? I thought you two may appreciate having something in common is all." Duke Mercia shrugged, brushing off the seriousness of the situation with a flippant smirk. "Greater alliances have certainly been built on less. I wish the best for this attempt at making friends, honestly I do." There was a ring of truth in the Duke's words, but Queen Fidelia knew he was not being completely sincere. She knew him well enough that he saw the strengthening of her position as Queen as a threat to his own authority, and this new alliance would create more obstacles for him.
"But, regardless, I think I have had enough dancing for tonight. I am not getting any younger, after all. And, if I were to dance with a pirate, I think I would much rather dance with your lovely sister. You are, how do I put this... Not my type. She, though..." The Duke glanced over towards Lu Xiang, but before he could stare her down too hard Queen Fidelia clapped her hands together.
"I agree. I think we have all had our fill of revelry for one evening. I thank you all for your attendance." That was the signal for people to, essentially, get the hell out of her ballroom. The uptake was slow at first, the nobles wanting to watch the potential fight that was about to happen. But once the guards opened the doors and staff started to subtly corral people out of the room the crowd soon dissipated. The only people left were the Queen, her honoured guests, and Duke Mercia. Even his wife had seen the sense to retreat to their carriage, she hadn't dared meet eyes with anyone as she quickly scurried away.
Lu Xiang didn't interfere, much to Delaiths relief.
She too knew this game well, and aid unlooked for was just as poor show as was disrupting ongoing affairs. She remained where she was, silent and unmoving but there was a tension in her body, like she was ready to spring into action with just a seconds notice. Likely Lu Xiang was used to much more violent attempts at breaking up diplomacy.
"A shame, and I made myself as pretty as possible for the effort. But I am sure a married man such as yourself has quite specific tastes" Lu Xun quipped at the rejection with a smile. Straightening himself back up.
Lu Xiangs face was surprisingly blank in response to the Dukes comment, being a pirate queen had seen her face a lifetime of abuse, being targeted and sexist remarks all by men thinking she was the weak link in the system. Each time she had ignored their attempts, or simply killed them for it, sadly in this case the latter would be frowned upon.
Lu Xun paid close attention to the dukes wife as she scurried away, watching over the nobles and getting a feeling of their moods for all this.
"Yes I do think that is quite enough revelery for one night" Lu Xiang finally spoke, looking at the duke but turning to Delaith her expression a complex one of both appreciation but also disgust, at least the disgust likely was purely directed at the Duke.
Laylaks mechanical face showed no emotion. Sure he had dressed himself in a suit, and top hat to look friendlier but he was bodyguard, and trusted fighter because he was a robot made for war. He liked to joke, poke fun, but the twins knew his capabilities. And when he wasn't engaging in banter, and utterly silent he was taking it seriously.
He didn't walk carefully, and with swagger like he had been. He casually stomped without effort to soften the sound of his eight against the floor. Entering what was the dancing ball instead of lingering at the side. He didn't say anything, but positioned himself in what he thought would be the best position if a fight broke out. Looking to Lu Xiang for any subtle hints of what she wanted to do. He had always respect her more than her brother, and was going with whatever she wanted to do.
His glowing purple eyes flashed a dim red for a moment as he swapped to a thermal based vision mode. Scanning for any cheeky aasassins that might try to take the opportunity after a moment swapping back casually.
Duke Mercia carefully surveyed the people gathered around him. He was greatly outnumbered, but he did not look at all shaken by the prospect.
"I suppose the party is indeed over, and such a shame... Before I depart, I wanted to make a quick announcement. Is that permitted, your Highness?" The Duke looked to Fidelia, almost daring her to say no. As much as The Queen wanted to have him dragged away, she knew she couldn't.
"Make it quick then, before you outlast your welcome."
"How gracious of you. Well, what with everything going on in the galaxy and with no prospect of protection from my Government I have taken the liberty of ensuring my assets galaxy wide are protected from harm. I fully expect an investigation as this goes against your precious morality, but rest assured you will find I have taken every measure to remain within the confines of the law of this land. With pirates now among us, I believe that these measures I have been forced to take are more essential now than I originally believed. After all, what with their reputation I do worry you have left our home vulnerable. But, do not call me unpatriotic, I will even use my new security assets to protect Vaplana, even if you do despise me for it, your Majesty. After all, I am nothing without Vaplana, as Vaplana is without me." The Duke finished his little speech and took a short bow, not even hesitating before turning his back on the Queen and heading towards the doors.
Queen Fidelia was not at all surprised by this announcement. She had known for a while that the Duke had been building forces beyond Vaplanan space. As long as he kept them there, she legally had no way to reprimand him. For now, at least. Her lawmakers had been brewing something for her to retaliate with, she just needed to make sure they had enough time to pass the motion before the Duke got too many dangerous ideas. Although she was not surprised, did not mean she was not furious with him for announcing it in front of her guests. She did not appreciate being made to look weak. Just as the Duke was leaving she decided to get the last word in, one last jab.
"You are right, I do wish my mother could be here to see this moment. As I also wish it were possible for your daughter to be here. From what I remember of her she was a sweet girl with a big heart, just like your son before her. My condolences as always, Your Grace."
The Duke was next to Lu Xiang and Delaith when Fidelia said that. He paused for a moment, his hand twitching at his belt. A cloud of rage seemed to wash over him before he quickly remembered where he was. He made brief eye contact with Delaith and Laylak in turn, and once he had taken a moment to calm himself he nodded shotly. It seemed, even if they were currently siding with the pirates, their business was more than welcome at his door. After the brief pause he did not look back at the Queen and just left the ballroom at an even brisker pace, shoving a maid out of his way as he went.
Silence once again suffocated the room. The party had, indeed, come crashing to a halt.
It had been days.
And so much had changed. What was to be such a small job to retrieve a family heirloom had turned into a dark rabbit hole surrounding both truth and painful revelations. The End of the Line twins were the true heirs to the Vaplanan throne, children of the legendary Queen Ismini and Pirate king Lu Xaobo. It had changed everything, and yet upon the cusp of retrieving the item, now in possession of the twins, they had captured the group.
Now aboard the EOTL vessel, the flagship, they had done little more than wait.
Not that they could complain entirely of course, the rooms that the Vaplanans, Ke’Thulians and Network representative had been given were absolutely luxurious. Gilded walls, luscious furniture and beautiful artwork adorned the state rooms with them each having their own sets of just as comfortable bedrooms. All had window apertures which allowed a good view to the depths of space outside, and a group of End of the Line soldiers delivered them meals everyday which had been clearly cooked by fine chefs giving them explosions of taste and texture.
They were being treated like royalty despite their situation, and every question of when the Twins would meet with them proper had been met with the same response.
“The twins are very busy at the moment they will get to you as soon as they can”
The End of the Line vessel had quickly left Lostern, travelling in FTL for a period until once more they had dropped out into real space. The tell-tale golden glow of the expanse was visible from the viewing window and judging by the travel time they were nearing their expected destination.
This time the door to the rooms opened, and a soldier stood calmly.
“The twins will see you in approximately an hour, be well dressed and ready by then”
Delaith pondered and waited.
As many many times before.
There... hadn't really been anything else to do, though he was used to be patient.
Whilst dining on the pirate vessel had certainly been an interesting experience, it was not like he actually needed to eat, it was more to remain a convincing 'human'.
He himself hadn't taken any guards with him, as they would've been disarmed anyways and as such would've been only additional bodies he'd have to take care of.
The twins hadn't shown themselves and their guards were not particularly talkative.
Lastly, the escort ships which had been following them in silence have kept him company though, judging by their presumed destination and the golden glow of the expanse... that would not be the case anymore soon. He would have to leave them behind.
Deralith pondered and at last, the waiting reached its end.
He looked over himself. By all means and purposes his uniform was still in excellent shape, though he suspected it was not what they considered 'well dressed'.
As such, he began his search for anything that may count as such in the room.
Maybe he would find a fine suit or something alike.
Ok'ta'yu was a bit aggravated, to say the least. He had come here for a simple retrieval mission, and had gotten caught up with damned pirates and heritage for nations he had never met outside of this. While he was intrigued at the history, he longed to go home and see Kel'thul again.
No matter, he had told himself many a time on his wait. He'd just have to wait. The guards had been very quiet towards them all, and nothing had been heard from the twins for a while. His trio of men that had been with him on the mission too were sick of the predicament they were stuck in. Thankfully, the respirating masks they had were able to easily recycle carbon dioxide from the atmosphere of the vessel they were being held on, of which he noted arrived near the golden expanse.
When the guard slipped in, ok' bowed his head slightly and let out a deep sigh. Well dressed, he decided, was befitting of the command robes he had changed out of and put up over the days, not wanting it to get dirtied. He quickly pulled it on, then took a seat, waiting.
The group of mercenaries that had accompanied Quin, while not actually Vaplanan, certainly had gotten used to their way of life while doing so much work for them. Even so, they had never seen luxury quite like this. They did not complain at all about their predicament, in fact, they were rather cheery considering the circumstances. But they did worry a little for their boss. They had not actually seen Quin since he had been escorted to his quarters on the first day aboard. That, they knew, was rather unusual for the normally social Vaplanan.
In fact, Quin was not in a good way. With nothing else to do, all he had done for the past few days was think. So much so that he had gotten swallowed into a darkness that he never knew lurked beneath. He sat beside his cabin window and stared blankly out into the faint golden glow of the expanse, cradling a small brooch in his hands. It was a dried cluster of lavender, hand crafted for him by his Queen and delivered by his sister. He did not deserve to be gifted such a treasure. He had failed miserably in his mission and had dragged his comrades down with him. All he could think of now was Queen Fidelia’s disappointed face if he ever returned home without the necklace or anything else worthy of presenting to her, and his sister’s pitying pat on the shoulder. Both images broke his heart. He wanted so badly to return home, but he also could not bear the thought of disappointing those he loved so dearly.
His downward mental spiral was cut short when the guard announced the twin’s intention to finally sit down and talk with him. He took another look at his brooch and a small spark ignited in his soul. This could be the beginning of his redemption if he grasped the opportunity and trod carefully! With a new determination, he rose and began to ready himself for the meeting, taking care of his appearance for the first time since he was escorted on board. On the way out of his rooms, he hesitated one last time, debating whether to return his brooch to his pocket or pin it to his Royal Guard Uniform. It would be a statement either way, but which would serve him better?
It was time to leave lest he be late, he could ponder on it no longer. He decided upfront honesty would serve him well, and so pinned the brooch to his uniform, displaying his Queen’s symbol with pride.
The hour passed relatively quickly, given the views outside rapidly changed. Anyone could tell they were near the expanse, but the strange glowing blackness and white lights which shifted and changed almost like a living sponge was something not many got to see in person. The Black Threshold, a legendary piece of spacetime disturbance which was almost impossible to navigate, never follow the lights they always said. And still the stars and glow of the expanse disappeared to be swallowed into the darkness as they dove in. Many knew that End of the Line and other pirate bands operated out of the Threshold, it was hard to enter let alone navigate to a specific destination and survive. This had been perfect when the pirate houses had collapsed into civil war and been expelled from their rightful home of Lost Star. And now it served as the home of their second attempt at building such a location, also dubbed End of the Line.
Slowly the blackness and strange white lights disappeared, being replaced with yet more glow from the expanse, as the ship came in at an angle it became clear. The huge station before them, End of the Line was indeed their destination.
As the hour mark reached its limit the guards came for them again, beckoning them to follow.
The inside of the ship was remarkably well kept but then End of the Line had always been prided in maintaining a professional standard among its pirate clades. It was what allowed them to take on much more powerful foes and get results when under pressure. Being taken through corridors and up lifts they finally arrived at what appeared to be a large observation deck. It was spacious and seemed off-putting by the fact it was circular, with the floor being the same as the ceiling, all were holographic panels projecting the space around the ship.
Lu Xun sat at a table in the centre of such a room, his sister Lu Xiang nowhere to be seen. He beckoned for them to take seats; some wine had been placed which he was pouring out.
“Welcome, sorry for the delay our matters take up a great deal of time. I have no doubt you have some questions, and I have my own, let us converse like adults, yes?” The guards took positions around the table to keep watch.
Delaith sat at the table in silence and decided he would remain that way for the time being.
There were others which could likely ask considerably more interesting questions than he himself. He simply nodded in return and answered.
"I see no issue with that."
After all, remaining professional was the least thing he could do in this situation, be it only to calm his co-prisoners.
He took a brief glance at the guards, likely some sort of loyalists, he guessed, with all sorts of concealed weapons. In the end they weren't here to stop them from escaping but rather to protect their leaders, there was not really anywhere to go anyways, considering where they were.
As for himself, in his brief search through the room he had been given for the time of their stay, he had found what looked like an old ceremonial Captains uniform of unknown affiliation and figured it would likely get as close to 'well dressed' as he could get.
With mild interest he looked around the room, searching for anything that would be of interest, whilst waiting for the others to ask their questions.
Around the table sat Oktayu and his soldiers, his men, mostly in silence. Ok' himself was avoiding speaking, for the time being, but one of his soldiers, a phytop by the name of Yu'Ka'Ti, spoke up quickly, in a restrained, annoyed tone of voice.
"How long will you be keeping us here?" she said to the present twin, a rhetorical question, as she already knew the answer.
Before Ok' himself could speak up to calm the soldiers, a Subphylum of the name Lu'Ka'Ra chimes in, asking another question.
"And how have you kept our governments from hunting for us," he said, trying to avoid sounding confrontational, wording it in a way that sounds concerned, "because surely they would have come for us, despite us having come here somewhat willingly."
Finally Ok' got word in, speaking mostly towards his own.
"Please, try not to bombard our host with questions, especially ones im sure he planned on answering in due time.."
Lu' simply nodded and sat back, looking towards Ok'. Meanwhile, Yu' scoffed and sat back, looking at Ok' for only a moment moment before turning her eyes towards the twin, a silent fire in her expression, her glowing orange eyes looking into Lu Xun's own eyes, waiting for the answer.
Quin was the last of the guests to arrive at the table, only two of his mercenaries at his side. He strode in being sure to look as if he was confident as ever, although he was sure the others had all heard about his absence before now. But still, he needed to look as put-together as possible to even stand a chance of dealing with this sticky situation with the grace expected of him. He was Vaplana’s only representative, after all, and these conversations could make or break his Queen’s reign.
“I’d like to begin by thanking you for your hospitality, Lu Xun. Under the circumstances I was expecting… Well, I’m not entirely sure what I was expecting actually, but it was certainly not this. I suppose the most pressing question on my mind is what you would like from me and my country.” Quin paused for a moment, before finally deciding to tackle the metaphorical elephant in the room. Best get it over with. “Will you be pursuing your claim to Vaplana’s throne? As much as I am willing to help you achieve your goals, I feel it necessary to also state that I am loyal to Queen Fidelia. I hope that we can resolve this peacefully. I would also like to clarify that my colleagues here are just that, colleagues for one mission. They have no connections to my homeland, so if they agree I would like to petition you to not hold them here against their will.”
Quin turned his attention to both Delaith and Ok’. “Although by now I have become rather accustomed to your company, so if you wish to stay and act as a neutral third party in this matter I would be very grateful.”
Despite the gorgeous views of outside space inside the room it did not take Delaith long to spot the small panel lines where each of the photoreactive cells creating the affect had been place, revealing the room to be fairly large with a circular roof. Lu Xun himself noticed the individual looking around in detail and the uniform he wore and merely smiled. The pirate was a handsome man, thin but well built with a fine cut face and beautiful oriental eyes, just like his mother. His golden tanned skin was just like his father as was his short black hair.
“No, no its quite alright” Lu Xun finally waved a hand to Ok’ and his men “Ill answer. I plan on keeping you here until something can be worked out, I get the information I want, and things are all resolved. If there is any luck that should be shortly. As for your governments… Well, we haven’t issued any ransom, and no state forces are insane enough to try tangle with End of the Line or come here and make a fool of themselves. I am afraid nobody is coming, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be let go” He smiled. Finally turning to Quin who sat down. His eyes clearly interested.
“You were expecting me to treat you like a usurper and to shoot you. My sister sure believes that, in fact she argued to kill you vehemently, but she isn’t here. She takes the loss of our mother and our heritage rather personally. You see, father used to tell us stories as children about the beauties of Vaplana, told us about mother and how we would all get to be one again in a gorgeous home as royalty.” He sighed.
“That never transpired as your aware. When father died, my sister clung onto that pain. I treat you with hospitality because that is what your old queen did, my mother, she is the one who made that integral to End of the Line. Be courteous, but devastating, that’s what father used to say.” He finally stood up and paced a few steps.
“That has yet to be seen honestly. My sister wants the throne, I myself would like to at least see where our mother lived. I am very aware your loyal to the current Queen, poor Fidelia has no idea of the truth, but then your society never did well with change. If you are willing to resolve this peacefully, and if your homeland is too then I do not see why we cannot formally talk. With your queen that is. As for the others… I agree, they may choose to leave, if so I will have them transfer to another ship and wait for pick up outside the Threshold”
Delaith stopped his observing and instead focused on Lu Xun now. He had no intention of leaving quite yet, there were too many questions unanswered and too many loose ends.
His behaviour seemed to be rather professional for a pirate, though that was only one of the many things that varied from the norm. He seemed to be considerably more... amicable than his sister, both in word and action. It was somewhat ironic he mentioned nobody would come for them as Delaith himself had ordered his ships to stay behind.
Though there was a question remaining which had piqued his curiosity since the mission had started, not too long ago.
"Out of curiosity, if I may ask, how does the amulet play into this? Is it something you required? Or just a trinket you or your sister wished to retrieve?"
He did not expect a fully detailed or honest answer, nor that the pirate knew what he may potentially be in his possession now, though it was still worth asking, if just to see how he would react.
Ok'ta'yu loosened up and sighed, rolling his shoulders back in an attempt to keep his posture straight. He didnt want to leave Quin and possibly even Delaith alone, but his soldiers, they were itching to go home. He was glad however at the hospitality of this pirate, in the offer to let some go, and piqued a question from his mandibles.
"Could i send my soldiers home without me?" he asked, pondering as he looked towards the private in particular. "I shall stay here by Quinlan and Delaith's side, but I cannot bring myself to force them to stay, as they had been dragged into this unnecessarily by myself."
Quin’s stomach dropped a little when he was told nobody was coming. He had imagined in his wildest dreams that Fidelia had sent a force after him when he lost contact, but he knew deep down that was merely fantasy. She was surely far too occupied with the political fallout from her assassination attempt and the surrounding mess to keep close tabs on him, and especially now that he was being held by pirates. The truth had always been cold and unforgiving. He, of course, was happy that his colleagues would have the option of leaving if they wished, but he knew that offer did not apply to him. He was in this until the end, voluntarily or otherwise.
“Your sister’s actions are understandable, such loss must be unbearable. You both have all of my sympathies. Although I do hope that she can see past the anger in due time and begin to heal, for all our sakes…” Quin trailed off, trying not to vividly imagine exactly what Lu Xiang had wanted to do to him, or what she may yet do. He was certainly glad that he was dealing with her brother, but he knew he couldn’t avoid her forever.
“As to your wishes, we both know I cannot guarantee much until I have had the opportunity to inform my Queen about, well… everything. But I can say for sure that she will definitely want to see you both. She is an advocate for peaceful resolutions and negotiation, so I can practically guarantee that you will have your wish, Lu Xun. You will get to see Vaplana, and hopefully, it will be soon. Probably not in time before the Aymer festival wraps up, which is unfortunate since it is a wonderful experience that Queen Ismini was known to enjoy.”
Lu Xun smiled as he turned to Delaith, he carefully undid the necklace and placed it onto the table for them all to see up close. Its white iridescent sheen was almost rainbow like, the flat and matte white seemed to shine in the light and the golden created an almost ripple life effect over its star pendant.
“Its only fair I show and tell you, after all this little one is why your all here now. This pendant was found by my father in the Golden Expanse. He gave it to my mother when he proposed, or so he says. She used to wear it as a good luck charm, when I heard that it was not in a museum at the very least but being actively worn by a nobody, I got it back. It also holds great power in EOTL, it’s a symbol of unity, important to our station. Some even say it’s a key to some ancient hold in the Expanse, haven’t found any useful intelligence on that though” He finally looked up at Ok’ta’yu and nodded.
“Of course. Anyone who wishes to leave that has no business here may do so. After we talk, I will direct my men to escort you to a shuttle and take you to the edge of the Threshold where you can be safely picked up.” He sighed finally after Quinlan spoke. His eyes belayed that of someone who had experienced the woes of the galaxy and knew that Quinlan had yet to see such for himself.
“I too hope she can see sense for all our sakes. As for seeing your queen… Quinlan, you are aware that our very existence is a stain on your nation’s history, I will not refuse an audience with Queen Fidelia, quite the opposite but I need you to know that we will be targets. We will try to be killed, and if you think that couldn’t happen, please, these families were willing to go to war with my father and the entire pirate forces of the galaxy over our mother. They won’t allow a rogue variable like me and my sister to survive a visit.” He ran a hand through his hair.
“I will go, I will visit my mothers’ home. But I want some of our terms as well. I want our own forces to protect us. Layak” Lu Xun called for the man to enter.
“This is Layak, he is one of our force commanders, I want him and a detachment of our soldiers to defend us”
Layak was not what most might expect of a pirate. A loyal guardian, a powerful warrior yes. But what the average pirate usually looked like? No, definitely not. What came through the doorway was a nine foot tall metal man. Thick armored legs, torso, and arms. His head engrained slightly into his shoulders. He looked more like an exotic war machine than your average robot. He had to both duck, and turn his body sideways to get through the doorway. His armoring was a stark vantablack, almost sucking in the light near him, but parts of him offset in EOTL colors as accents, and linings. The thing was utterly massive, and armored to the point it was more of a burden to walking, than it was even practical. While he had ingrained weapons in his right gauntlet it was mostly non-lethal options for dealing with rowdy crew. His left gauntlet was far more bulky as it extended into a shield. For extraction of VIPs. His actual hands were currently his only weapons.
The head was equally as well armored, and had a thin glowing purple light. Like a knights helm almost. With a few antenna's coming off of the top. As he stood back up fully his chassis seemed to give a loud hydraulic hiss.
"Engaging eradication protocols." Layak began, but then a snortle came from the fearsome AI. Quickly adding on before anyone over reacted. "Nah just fucken' with ya. What can I do for ya sir?"
His voice was very deep, but not all that mechanical, or modulated. A bit grainy, but otherwise 'normal'
Deralith watched Layak enter the room, wondering how useful he'd actually be in combat, his armour did seem rather... cumbersome though looks may be deceiving. He should know that best.
That Lu Xun actually knew what this trinket of his was was commendable, no matter the source he had, it did also, to a degree, confirm his own suspicions when he first saw the pendant.
He reached out for the amulet lying on the table, lifting an eyebrow at their host.
"May I?"
A hold in the golden expanse, so, precursor technology perhaps? A failsafe, a hidden retreat? Maybe it was connected to the history of the Expanse itself and why it was what it is today? Perhaps knowledge on looming threats or a terrible past? Sleepers held in stasis caskets?
There were many a possibility what this hold could be and what it could contain.
If it was real.
Perhaps a... cooperation with the Pirates would be beneficial in the future? It could also prove useful in other aspects...
Sub processes ran through calculations and predictions as he waited for Lu Xun's response.
Ok' nods in appreciation, turning to his soldiers who seem to be far more at ease with this knowledge, no longer sitting forwards in their chairs as they collectively look around the room.
The soldiers all flinched as the massive AI walked in and spoke at first, Ok' grimacing beneath his mask as he led out a deep sigh, turning back towards the single twin sitting in front of them at the table.
"When this ordeal has come to a conclusion, i may find myself in need to discuss with you about possibilities of co-operation. You may be pirates, but you have an honourable word, and are.. Professional."
He would have to bring it afront the senate, to fight with them, when he got home... Maybe he could convince them, maybe not. But these 'pirates' had earned his trust, at least partially.
Quin’s immediate reaction to Lu Xun’s apprehension about Vaplana being dangerous was to be a little confused. The loyal patriot in him was a little offended, after all, he was not only a representative of his Queen but of The Ceremonial Guard too, the organisation responsible for security. Vaplana had been transformed into a much safer place to live after the Pacifism reforms decades before under Fidelia’s father.
But, given a moment to think on it while gazing at the iridescent shine of the pendant, he came to the conclusion that Lu Xun’s worries were indeed justified. After all, he had been injured in the assassination attempt on Queen Fidelia not too long ago, and he was lucky. Many of his fellow citizens had died in the crossfire. And the Prime Minister had been paranoid for Fidelia’s safety ever since her father died… Vaplana was changing, no longer the safe and peaceful paradise Fidelia’s father had made it. If the accepted and well-liked Queen was in danger, the illegitimate children of the now-disgraced family line would certainly not be safe.
However justified Lu Xun was, did not mean that ensuring his request for his soldiers being allowed on Vaplanan soil would be easy. As much as Quin was relieved that Layak seemed to have a good sense of humour, which was a good sign, his appearance would cause trouble back home. Vaplana was a judgemental place, especially among the nobles, and his intimidating frame would certainly make waves. Vaplana’s approach was one much more subtle, and Quin couldn’t help but feel like the blatant show of raw power would not only scare the people, but would also offend the nobles. And the nobles were dangerous people to offend. He knew it, Fidelia knew it. He took a breath before replying.
“As much as I am disappointed to admit, you are right. Vaplana is not as peaceful a place we would like it to be right now, and I do assure you that everything possible is being done to change that. So, I do understand your desire to keep your people close. However, this may cause more problems than you foresee. Only members of the Ceremonial Guard are allowed to carry weapons back home, and that’s not even delving into the fact that you will be seen as stereotypical pirates initially. I will, of course, ask Queen Fidelia to come to a suitable arrangement for your security, and will do my best that you and your sister will be satisfied that your needs are being met. But this issue will certainly require at least some compromise…”
Quin sighed and ran his hand through his hair, trying to plan how best to broach this topic with the authorities back home once he was given the opportunity to get back in contact. What an impossible task…
“Of course, have a closer look if you like” Lu Xun then seemed to smile at the joke that the machine had pulled, almost an expected thing that Layak liked to pull on those who had not met it before.
“I need you to once these proceedings have concluded escort some of these fine individuals to a small cutter and take them to the edge of the threshold. You will also be accompanying me and Lu Xiang to Vaplana, however we will likely need to dress you up nicer” he gestured with a hand. Lu Xun was somewhat surprised to hear Quin admitting to the fact that Vaplana wasn’t safe, but quickly remembered that there had been an incident recently. He had not seen details of it but clearly it must have involved royalty if Quinlan was admitting such.
“With all due respect, I do not entirely trust everyone in your guard either. I am happy to keep weaponry to personal defence pieces concealed on my body so they do not stand out but unarmed would be tantamount to suicide you must understand, my sister as well would never even countenance the thought. I am well aware we will be nothing but a stereotypical boogey man, but we can put on flash and pomp just as much as any nation, our mother taught EOTL that.” Lu Xun seemed to smile at the thought.
“I will willing to compromise on outward security, but being totally unarmed is a no go, as for possible deal of co-operation, tell me more, we are indeed professional and keep our word it is how we became so powerful” He asked Ok’
Delaith picked up the necklace and observed it with great interest, whilst continuing to listen to the conversation on the side. It was masterfully crafted, not in terms of an artistic sense, as little as he understood of it, but more the actual materials, the design was calculated with purpose. He turned it a couple times in his hand.
"Hm..."
Strangely enough the design also looked... familiar.
He looked up at the conversation for a moment. The prospect of moving the pirates to Vaplana was... concerning. The network had a couple of agents there establishing themselves, although he lacked the details in this body for security reasons. From what he observed Lu Xun should not have too much an issue to blend in, his sister on the other hand...
He looked through his databanks trying to make sense of where he seen the design before.
Well and then there was now Layak who would need considerably more than a well crafted disguise.
Nakai. It was Nakai origin. It had taken a while to identify as, whilst they were well known, artefacts from them were a rarity but he was certain. He recalled some footnotes on their existence and involvement it was a topic the Prince would certainly be interested in. He placed the necklace back on the table and addressed Quin.
"I, too, would be interested in how you plan to bring all, him, his sister and..."
He gestured towards Layak with one arm.
"...him, onto Vaplana without causing an international uproar."
Layak looked over to Lu Xun. His black armored faceplate was blank, and the low glow of his purple visor that were his eyes had no emoticons to them whatsoever. His voice however carried all of the emotions needed to be conveyed.
"Boss I am uhh... I am a 2000 pound chassis built to fight wars. I mean I got some fancy optical stealth, the hydraulics can be real quiet like. But shit I can't think of nothing to make me less intimidating. Paint me pink, with little ponies, and rainbows over me maybe?" He snickered, and kept his gaze on their guests. While he was all fun and games personality wise, his job was to protect Lu Xun, and he wasn't shirking in that duty..... Or in his secondary duty to none here. He began to start getting as comprehensive of a reading on each in the room as he possibly could.
Ok'ta'yu nodded, and replied to Lu Xun, his glowing orange eyes providing no look into where his gaze has befallen.
"As of the last I heard from my nation, we have been dwindling on our production of vessels, and due to internal politics very few vessels have been taken off of defensive duties to go and explore out or do tasks outside our borders. Possibly, we could discuss a deal of hiring vessels from your ranks as mercenaries to allow our vessels more freedom to move through the galaxy. Though, much may have changed since i've been gone..."
Quin was feeling like the unluckiest man alive, to try and arrange such a meeting would indeed cause uproar. But, could he admit that? He was being as honest as possible to establish that he was acting in good faith, but would that admission be a step too far? He had seen the surprise on the faces of those gathered at his last admission, and he couldn’t help but feel he was slightly out of his depth. Yes, being a guard member he had some training on how to deal with people peacefully, but he was far from a diplomat. He was probably going to be reprimanded rather forcefully when he admitted to Vaplana what he had said…
“Your concessions are not unreasonable, and I will do my best to ensure my superiors are just as reasonable in their compromise. As for not causing an uproar… Well, I do have some useful connections back home that will make achieving this meeting more realistic. I envisage that working with those people will help calm tensions.”
His connections? Limited. But he had seen his sister pull off meetings that involved much more tense history than this, and thats not even touching upon the logistics she single-handedly organised for the peace negotiations between Orillia and The Union. But, all of those events were nowhere near as personal and important to the Queen and the Vaplanan people. Although, if Queen Fidelia saw her potential enough to keep Thalia so close then there was hope. The siblings would have to pull off a miracle together for this wild plan of his to go smoothly.
Lu Xun smiled and clasped his hands together.
"There we are then. I had hoped the Captain of the Royal Guard would be a reasonable and understanding gentlemen, I was not disappointed. We will uphold our end, only personal weapons, concealed and we will make an effort not to wear peg legs and jolly rogers eh?" He laughed.
"Don't worry Layak, we can get you some nice clothes and add on for that big frame of yours. At the end of the day your there to keep us safe, what's a little intimidating hm? If you want the pink and ponies however I wont stop you... And as for your deal Ok'. I am sure we can come to an arrangement. We hire our services to those willing to pay, although we are not cheap you get the best quality. I assume you wish for me to discuss this with your government?"
"Now, I suggest Quin and Ok' that you discuss what we have here with your respective people, you have no more restrictions on your communication systems, but we will be listening just in case you try something. As for you" He turned to Delaith "You recognise it don't you?"
He grinned.
"Priceless on the market, I don't doubt members of White Maginot would pay entire sectors for this. But its sentimental, and its a key." Lu Xun picked up the necklace and ran his fingers down it affectionately.
Ok'ta'yu nods and stands, motioning for the soldiers near him to do the same.
"I thank you for your hospitality, Mr. Xun. I shall see what I can do discussing with my Higher-ups."
His eyes glowed brighter for a moment; likely the cultural stand-in for smiling for kel'thulians, then he turned away the soldiers saying their own thanks and leaving alongside him, walking to each their own quarters. Ok' entered his own, closing the door behind him as he let out a sigh, changing out of his command robes into the common clothes he had been provided. Shortly after, he mused upon what Lu Xun had said. No more restrictions, hm? He stood up from a chair, and grasped his communication device- merely a little holographic pad with a microphone in the physical base, and a small pair of earhole-covers instead of a speaker.
"This is Executive officer Ok'ta'yu of the KNS Virtuous Advance. I am alive, and well. After discussion with the so-called pirates that have taken us aboard their ship, we will be sending my three soldiers still with me back home, but I have elected to stay behind and serve as a diplomat. They have been hospitable and well-kempt, and given us good care. If anyone upon the command net can hear me, please respond..."
And then he waited.
---A Key? A Key? A KEY?---
/// Error //// Re-evaluating battle-plan. //// Engage combat systems Y / N //// N //// Send mission update? Y / N //// N //// New Objectives //// mission file modified //// Mission report impossible. //// Proceeding with Operation Layak ////
Layaks sub processes all halted as the A.I. finally realized the importance of the Queen's Trinket. It had been dismissed as needless mortal sentimental value. Layaks gaze turned to the key and began to scan over it in depth. Layaks processes starting back up. The massive robots panels folding out slightly to give the internal components more breathing room. The heavy, dense, and heavily stealth coated armor plating he had did not do good with heat. He could vent himself, but Layak wasn't about to blow hot steam in his bosses face.
"No ponies Sir" He'd say with a small chortle then continue. "You know fashion better than me, boss...." He paused for a moment then asked one simple question. "Orders Sir?" He spoke plainly. But his voice still carried all the pep utterly unbefitting for such an intimidating robot.
Quin didn’t need to be told twice. He smiled at Lu Xun as he rose from his place. “I had hoped the same of you. I suppose we will see each other again when I have my reply from Vaplana.” He and his escort left, not before he gave Layak a friendly nod. He proceeded straight to his quarters and tried to contact Vaplana immediately. He knew if he hesitated even for a moment he would get too nervous. It didn’t take long before his call was answered.
Before him stood a holographic version of Talos, the Royal Information Chief. An agonising thorn in Quin’s side, this man always knew the most inopportune moment to show up and interrupt whatever was going on. He had never liked Talos, he was sneaky, slimy, fake. But, these were good traits for a spymaster so he did fit his job role. Quin had been expecting his boss, General Brodin, to answer; his absence was actually a little concerning.
“Quinlan Satolli. We were expecting a communication from you a week ago. Why am I not surprised at your tardiness?” Quin opened his mouth to shoot back a snarky reply but was quickly shot down. “Actually, do not bother answering that. I do not want or need to know. Give me your report and I will pass it on accordingly.”
“I was instructed by General Brodin to give my updates to him or Queen Fidelia only.”
“Both are currently indisposed. I’m afraid I will have to do, I have the according order here.” Quin’s PDA was pinged with a document signed by the Queen authorising Talos to be informed of the current mission. Quin sighed, Talos the slimy bastard had tied his hands so to speak. Typical.
“Fine then. After my last update I was essentially voluntarily kidnapped by pirate lords Lu Xun and Lu Xiang. After some negotiations I have reached an agreement, and are now passing on our agreement to yourself.”
“Wait a second, you have not been authorised to make any diplomatic contact with anyone, let alone a hostile force! You were sent to oversee the mercenaries in retrieving a necklace, and now you speak of negotiations and agreements. Vaplana will not be bound by any such agreement, I can tell you that. And that is not even touching upon the extortionate expenses that have been sent to us! 5000 Millicents to a random Coronan dockmaster, Quinlan are you crazy?! Money does not grow on trees, you know.”
“Look, before you judge how awful a job you think I’m doing maybe you should try doing a mission or two yourself instead of getting your minions, oh sorry I meant ‘talent’, to do it for you. If you are not going to be polite I demand to speak to someone impartial before I continue.”
“You have no such luxury to make demands, Quinlan. You cannot hide behind Queen Fidelia’s affection for you forever, and I will see to it that you are reprimanded for your negligence upon your return.”
Quin sighed. This was going nowhere.
“You haven’t even heard the most of it yet and you threaten to punish me. I guess after this briefing I’ll be lined up and shot for treason, or would be if you were in charge.”
“Did your feeble attempt at ‘negotiation’ go that badly? Well, now I’m intrigued, enlighten me.”
“Well, you see-”
“Talos, what are you doing in here? You were needed in a meeting of your staff 20 minutes ago.” A familiar female voice cut in on Talos’s end of the call, and Quin finally felt lucky again for the first time in a long while. It was his sister, coming to his rescue once again. Talos turned away from Quin in the call.
“I am taking an important call, maid, your presence is not required here. Just reschedule my meeting.”
“I may be a maid, sir, but I am not yours. I do not appreciate you giving me orders.”
“If you value your job in this Palace I would mind your tongue, commoner.”
“Hey, asshole, don’t ever speak to my sister like that!” Quin yelled, but unfortunately a small pop-up appeared informing him he had been muted. Thalia was on her own. Or so he thought…
“Talos, that kind of language is unacceptable for a member of my staff. Step aside, I demand to see who is so important that you shirk your duties.” A second voice cut through, and Quin’s stomach flipped. It was Queen Fidelia.
“Oh, uh, Majesty… I did not know you were there…” Talos stammered before stepping out of frame, his hologram being replaced with the forms of Queen Fidelia and his dear sister Thalia.
“Quin! I am so glad to see you are ok, we were so worried when we lost contact!” Thalia beamed.
“I see what has happened here… Talos, you are dismissed. I will hear Quin’s report.” A moment of silence, then the sound of a door slamming. “Quin, I too am happy to see you alive and well. Thalia told me you had attempted a call but it was answered before I could free myself from a briefing by the diplomat general. I hear you were kidnapped? I presume, given your freedom to contact us, you have been released?”
“Unfortunately, not quite yet. But you will be glad to know I am being treated very well. Pirate Lord Lu Xun is a gracious host, even in circumstances like these. I need to urgently update you on the situation here though, Your Majesty, for things are not as they seem.”
Quin proceeded to spill all to The Queen and his sister, who had undoubtedly caught Talos intercepting his call and acted accordingly. Both women were deep in thought by the end of the briefing.
“That certainly is… a situation. I do agree with the deal you have made, I welcome the Pirate twins to come here as my honoured guests. They deserve that much. However, this matter will require the assent of the Parliament, Quin. I will do my best to force the matter, but there is only so far I can go.”
“Thank you for your understanding of the situation, Your Majesty. And I must also apologise. I have overstepped horrendously on this mission, and the goal of retrieving the necklace for Lady Laskaris has been lost. I cannot bear to steal it away from those who should rightfully own it. I have also mistakenly spent, well… Far too much. I will accept whatever punishment you deem appropriate upon my return home.”
“Do not be silly, Quin. The money is a non-issue, I have already paid the amount you spent to the treasury from my own funds. And regarding your negotiating, I sent you on this mission for a reason. You may be the head of my guard, and as such a soldier, but you also have a talent with people. I wanted that skill on such a sensitive mission, and even though the circumstances have significantly changed I feel you have served me well. I look forward to seeing you back here where you belong, Quin. We both miss you dearly.” With a smile the women disappeared, and Quin was yet again alone. But, now, he felt just a shred of hope.
Later that evening…
“What do you mean, invite the pirates to Vaplana?! With respect Fidelia, are you mad?! This is not going to go down well in the chamber, you know that right?”
“Malax, I swore to uphold the laws of this land and those of morality when I was crowned. I take my duty seriously, and I feel that the twins deserve to be seen by their homeland.”
“They may be pretenders, have you considered that?”
“Of course I have, but I believe Quin when he said they bear a striking resemblance to Queen Ismini. They deserve a chance, and I wish to see them myself.”
“They are the strongest opponents to your position, dear. I am just trying to protect you…”
“I do not wish for you to protect me, Malax, we have had this conversation before. Arrange for the motion to go before Parliament first thing tomorrow, that is all I need from you right now.”
“You are too much like your mother, Fidelia…. Well, as you wish your majesty. It will be done.”
Delaith had initially remained silent in response to Lu Xuns question, waiting patiently in his seat as the others left the room. He eyed and the guards and Layak somewhat warily, though waiting for them to leave would likely be rather pointless.
As all the other guests were gone, he spoke up at last, a calculating and observing look on his face.
"Nakai. It is Nakai origin and you seem to be well aware of that. It is true that various individuals in this galaxy would pay you generously for it. However, I would be careful with who you reveal its existence to, I find it more than likely there are also plenty of people who would kill you for it, people entirely out of my or your scope of operations."
He paused for a moment, leaning forward and interlocking his fingers, then continued.
"That aside, I and the people I work with, too, would take interest in this vault. Would you be interested in coming to an agreement about its exploration, with people who may have experience with these sort of things?"
He looked at him for a couple moments longer then stopped.
"Of course, there is no need to decide this now. More, something to consider for the future."
Delaith stood up and turned to leave the room, to return to his quarters.
"Thank you for your time."
“Take the individuals who wish to leave and get them a ride home. And ready a group of at least semi presentable individuals that we can have accompany us. Don’t worry about my sister I will be the one to handle that powder keg” He nodded to Layak dismissing the AI to carry out the orders.
“Of course, Captain I will see you soon” Lu Xun seemed to wink almost like a joke, like he expected Quinlans next few hours would be hell. He was quite right.
“Your very correct it is Nakai, in remarkable condition too. And believe me, I am very well aware of how other parties will kill me for it, I have already gone to great lengths to secure it myself and to fight off would be thieves.” At Delaiths comment about exploration however Lu Xun seemed to sit back in his chair.
“A proposition for exploration, eh? And what do you and your benefactors gain from it? A cut of the bounty? Technology beyond our wildest dreams? A chance to backstab us and take it all for yourselves perhaps? I will think about the offer. And I thank you for your straightforwardness” With a nod he watched Delaith leave.
“I don’t like them” the voice of Lu Xiang came from beside Lu Xun, her powerful active camouflage de-activating.
“You would say that. Truthfully, I’m surprised you didn’t kill the Captain” He smiled.
“I wanted to. But… I want to see home.” He voice eased slightly. Lu Xun looked up at her standing over him.
“We will see home, soon my sister”
----
It was a few hours later as those who wished to leave gathered their things and were taken out of the Threshold, handed over to authorities and sent home. The meeting on Vaplana had been made, with Lu Xun very much happy about the arrangement, the vessel set off in due course, leaving EOTL station and the Threshold before making a direct course to Vaplana itself. The guests were still kept to the quarters, mostly for their own protection as much as the secrecy of EOTL itself.
It did not take long to reach their destination, coming out of FTL the familiar appearance of a beautiful blue and green marble filled the observation window. Quinlan was finally home. Almost immediately they were requested in the hangar bay.
Three shuttles waited for them, none of them quite the same and painted with all sorts of symbols and designs like a graffiti wall. Lu Xun and Lu Xiang stood waiting, both wearing incredibly gaudy clothing making them look like aristocrats from pre revolutionary France. Ten escorting honourguard stood with them, all clad in retrofitted Union power armour stripped down and painted black and gold.
“Greetings. I assume you are ready for this quite interesting meeting?”
As the remainder of their stay had been rather eventless Delaith had little to do in his time, merely waiting it out and sorting through his data until they would return from the threshold. He had reported back to the ships lying in wait and caught up with the events in the network as they left the territory of the pirates and both had been dismissed, at least for the moment, entering Vaplanan territory with military ships would hardly be a good idea if the Network wanted to establish favourable connections with them.
Something interesting he had gained through travelling the threshold was a vague idea how it could be navigated, though given the rather scarce knowledge it would likely still take a guide or a lot of probing and even then, there would still be pirates waiting on the other end.
As he left his room for the hanger bay today, he wore his usual uniform again, the captains uniform safely returned to where he had taken it from. He frowned at the oddly painted shuttles, as it felt like the paint lined up neither with the EotL nor Vaplanan ships, though that was likely intentional.
He had informed some of their assets on Vaplana, though whilst they would be able to keep eye out in public, there would little they would be able to do beyond that without revealing themselves and they wouldn't be able to follow them to the meeting either.
He observed the lined up troops and nodded affirmingly.
"Everything is in order. Which shuttle will we be taking?"
Quin had been rather busy for the rest of the journey, coordinating with his sister who had been put in charge of the welcome for the twins and their party. He had informed the twins’ crew exactly where to land and when, they were on a rather strict schedule after all.
Thalia had also kept him updated on all of the drama that had exploded after the full parliament had convened to approve the diplomatic event. There was… rather a lot of it. Even for Vaplanan standards. Nobody was pleased with the Queen’s decision, however, there was little any members could do as Prime Minister Malax Wickford had also approved the action. With the two rulers in unison, there was little room for debate, but that didn't mean people wouldn’t talk. Rumours had been flying around the court like wildfire, apparently, and some had even accused the Queen (privately of course) of having an affair with Lu Xun. It was all untrue, obviously, but gossip was the specialty of the nobles. Fidelia had been rather steadfast in ignoring all accusations, whatever their substance, smartly deciding to not lower herself to the nobles’ level.
Quin was nowhere near as unbothered by it all. As head of her personal security, his mind immediately went to the worst-case scenario. And for good reason, such unrest amongst the nobles was known as a breeding ground for plots and schemes of all kinds. He would have to be at his best when reunited with his queen, otherwise who would know what could happen?
Quin was therefore conflicted upon arriving at Vaplana. His heart was full of joy upon seeing his homeland before him once again, but his head was swirling with every negative possibility all at once. He knew better than to let it consume him, however, so he tried his best to cling to his excitement at being reunited with his loved ones again. Not even the twins’ gaudy and out-of-season appearances could dampen that feeling.
Vaplanan noble fashion was an ever-evolving roulette of elegant styles from ancient European courts, melding flowing fabrics and skin-tight silhouettes with intricate metalwork and glistening jewels. It changed, sometimes dramatically, every season thanks to the nobles’ need to one-up each other. The only unifying factor was that fabrics were recycled or sustainably sourced as much as possible, in line with Vaplana’s green philosophy. So, while the twins’ ensemble was at least four seasons out of date if their outfits were recycled they would at least not be ostracised. Quin knew better than to ask, though, lest Lu Xiang behead him on the spot.
“Ready as can be. We should get going, my dear sister has us on a tight schedule for now I’m afraid.”
Most the rest of Ok'Ta'Yu's journey was waiting. Waiting for a response from his home government, and walking around aimlessly. Eventually, he did get a response, but all it told him was that discussions couldnt be made till he arrived home, and brought the pirates with him. Great, he told himself, more endless waiting. May aswell see their visit to Vaplana, and then maybe coordinate one with his home.
Maybe.
When the day finally came for them to leave, he brought himself to put on his uniform-robes once again, straightening them out after recently having them cleaned, fastening little pins and buttons. When he wrapped on the last layer of the robe, he looked into a mirror.
"Almost out." he said, openly speaking to himself. "Once this is done and over with, I'll be home."
And he stepped away, exiting his room. Down the halls and bulkheads he went, with the soft tap of his shoes against the metal of the floor. He stepped into the hangar, taking note of Quinlan and Delaith having arrived moments before him, with the troops and twins to boot. He nodded, and stepped closer, before turning his dimmed eyes to the twins.
"Indeed I am. Hopefully, all goes well."
Laylak gave a casual two finger salute to Lu Zun. "I'll get right to it boss, and thanks. Your sister can be a... Well ya know better than anyone." The robotic titan chuckled, and turned to leave. Going to gather the men he knew would be good in a fight, and serious enough to not screw anything up. Popping open any stores of weapons, or gear under his disposal to get them a better chance at helping out if needed. And while he was at it, slinking off into one of the access points. Quickly and subtly releasing a spyware program on the vessels systems, while going through the systems to look like he was doing an average check up in line with his duties. He needed infromation now, and taking bigger risks to achieve that was acceptable to the mission. Simple spyware was first, so he could listen in, and watch both the twins, and their guests. It was also a good test of the waters while he had many scapegoats on the vessels.
“The nice one, don’t want to give the wrong impression” Lu Xun smiled tapping on the side of the shuttle with the filagree and various ornamental additions to make it look more like a hawk. Its sides inscribed with frescos showing Lu Xaobo’s epic feats. Lu Xiang gave a glare at Quinlan and the others, while she was dressed up nice her attitude and obvious distrust was plain to see, she was going to be the wildcard in these meetings.
“Well, if your all ready then lets go, as the man says we are on a tight schedule”
They boarded the shuttle, strapping down onto seats as the engines cycled up and they took off. The EOTL honour guard still eyed their guests carefully behind their helmets, but within moments the shuttle was out of the ship and the interior became totally see through, it was like they were flying without the shuttle around them.
“The first time being in our home worlds skies” Lu Xun whispered, both of the twins seemed to look at each other with genuine happiness.
As they broke the clouds, the large city opened up below them, beautiful eco-modern designs which stretched upwards and rubbed shoulders with old neo-gothic and neo-victorian constructions. Their destination was below, the large gardens surrounding the palace, the landing area being in a thicket of extremely old oak woodland. The trees rustled as the craft came to a halt, there was a large entourage of people waiting for them, Quin almost instantly recognising the Queen herself and the Queens guard escorting her.
“So, this is our home” Lu Xun smiled, the ramp descended and both he and his sister stepped forward, taking one in each together they placed one foot onto the lush green grass of Vaplana. Decades, they had waited for this moment for decades. As they strode out, those within followed, the EOTL honour guard forming up behind the two pirates.
Delaith had been silent during the flight down, pondering on how he should act once they arrived, perhaps it would be best to stay close so he could intervene in case something should happen? He took note of scenery as they descending, though it meant little to him. With the other assets informed and things being as there were, there was little could do right now.
As the twins left the shuttle, so did he shortly after, keeping a respectful distance to either side, but staying close. He turned towards the queen, and bowed respectfully.
"Delaith Vargen, I have been assisting Quinlan. My apologies for the circumstances under which this meeting came to pass."
He went silent again and waited, observing what either side would do and how the meeting would go.
Even though Quin was doing his best to remain professional, he couldn’t help but experience the same joy the twins were feeling as he watched Vaplanan soil grow closer and closer. It had been far too long since he had been home, and he had experienced so much. He was practically buzzing with excitement when the ramp descended. He could barely wait for the twins to take their first steps onto Vaplana before he too left the shuttle behind them. He felt so many eyes on him, but he didn’t care. His colleagues were looking him up and down, apprehensively at first but they quickly all broke into smiles seeing him back unharmed. A guard member whispered something to Queen Fidelia and the atmosphere immediately lightened. Her stoic and emotionless gaze quickly morphed into a warm beaming smile. Clearly, they had been worried sick that Quin had been mistreated or harmed in some way. With that not being the case, the Vaplanan delegation seemed much more eager to give the twins only the best welcome.
Queen Fidelia stepped forward, flanked by two men Quin quickly recognised as senior guard members. They were the best of the best, outranked only by himself and the General. She wore a lilac renaissance a-line gown in line with current official court fashion, a stark contrast to the hooped skirts and endless layers of fabric of the french style the twins were sporting. It was adorned with hundreds of tiny pearls. She did not come wearing her official crown, but instead an intricately-carved golden circlet sporting only a few diamonds for decoration. Simple, understated, but making it clear she was royalty without screaming it from the rooftops.
“Dearest guests, Lu Xun and Lu Xiang, it is my pleasure to welcome you to Vaplana.” The Queen extended her hand to the pair, waiting to see if they would follow the Vaplanan custom to lay a quick kiss there, or maybe give her a handshake? She smiled politely, trying not to glance too often at Quin and instead focus on her guests. She could catch up with her friend later.
“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for returning my Captain to me unharmed. I hope he has not caused you too much trouble.” She then turned to Deliath, pleased that at least one of her guests was guaranteed to be courteous.
“I thank you too, Delaith Vargen, for assisting our Quin on his journey back to us. I look forward to getting to know you all over the duration of your stay with us.”
Quin noticed that for an official welcome, there was a distinct lack of nobility present. In fact, no members of the nobility or the Government were present. Not even the Prime Minister had turned up. Quin hoped they would rendezvous with more members of the court inside the palace in line with tradition, otherwise, either the twins or the Vaplanan establishment may make a scene. He did not want a scene so early into the visit.
“Would you walk with me?” Fidelia extended her arm to Lu Xun and gestured for Quin to do the same for Lu Xiang, which made Quin wish a hole would swallow him. He knew that personally escorting their guests to the palace was expected, but in such a personal and friendly way was a bold move for any first meeting, let alone one with such high stakes. He would also rather not get within hitting range of Lu Xiang. Regardless, he dutifully held out his arm, awaiting the inevitable swipe that would come as a result.
Stepping out of the shuttle, keeping away from the rest, Ok' took a moment to peer around. After some time he noticed the Queen, and took hold of the bottom of his robe, bowing down and curtsying with the robe as his eyes dimmed, showing respect to the woman. Not too long after, he let go and raised up from the bow, his eyes glimmering back into a soft orange colour, partially illuminating his masked face.
"I am Ok'Ta'Yu, and have also partaken in assisting Quinlan and Delaith. I do hope none of my customs clash with that of yours."
After speaking, he remained silent and awaited for the Twin's responses to the Queen.
As the twins were faced with Queen Fidelia Lu Xuns eye seemed to raise. He was more impressed than he let on, but maybe it was just her looks. His face was already running contingencies but most of his thoughts was a potential marriage into Vaplanan royalty, he had all the necessary ties and qualifications, but a smile crossed his face as he focused on the moment. Lu Xiang visibly twitched and recoiled slightly at the Queens gesture. Lu Xun stepped forward with confidence, taking her hand and kissing it gently.
“The pleasure is all ours your majesty. I am King Lu Xun of the End of the Line. This is my sister, Lu Xiang, Queen of the organisation. Your captain has been most willing to help given this rather interesting situation it was the least we could do” She did not shake Fidelias hand, keeping herself at a safe distance away. At the offer to walk with her Lu Xun smiled and nodded, taking her arm as he calmly walked at her pace, observing the surrounding beautiful greenery.
Lu Xiang practically glared daggers at Quinlan as he did the same. Prompting Layak to make some kind of noise similar to laughter as the machine accompanied them. The pirate queen held Quin as loosely as possible, it was clear she was despising every moment. This was not how she imagined coming back to Vaplana.
“This place is beautiful, it is just how our mother used to say it is. I believe your captain informed you about everything, I do not wish to hide anything or beat it around the bush. You must understand, our mother was taken from us and our very future was denied, this… paradise, was barred from us due to circumstance and petty nobility” Lu Xiang seemed to nod in agreement.
As they walked Delaith remained silent for the moment, falling in line with the other guests and guards, interrupting the talks between royalty could be considered impolite or even offensive, even with how friendly the queen gave herself currently and there was not much he had to say at the time anyways.
Ok'Ta'Yu had raised a valid point with his concern about the differing customs, one of the many things one had to keep in mind when working with foreign cultures, especially alien ones, which meant he likely had a decent degree of competence.
The same could likely not be said about the Pirate queen, he did not envy Quinlans position. For all she boasted and complained about Vaplana being her homeworld, from what he had seen so far she seemed to either know or value the traditions of the place rather little, which raised the question of whether she was actually aware what she was getting herself into here or if she had just been focusing on her envy and hatred all these years. Admittedly, he hadn't seen too much of her so far, so he may still be wrong.
Layak on the other hand... well, he did not really expect that much from him, he was a war machine and a sort of captain or bodyguard for the pirates as such royal court behaviour was likely not his strength though not on his agenda either.
Queen Fidelia had been paying close attention to every little movement of both the twins during their first meeting. In particular, she had been watching their body language carefully. It seems that Quin’s assessment of the pair had been spot on, as expected. Lu Xun was open to friendly relations, his demeanour was certainly warm enough and he had clearly done his homework regarding Vaplana’s traditions. Lu Xiang… not so much. The pirate Queen was treading a very fine line, after all the gap between aloofness and insulting behaviour was rather small. Anyone else would have been chastised by now, but knowing the background and all at stake here Fidelia knew she had to be patient. The fact she was a fellow Queen also helped keep her men from showing just how much her rudeness offended them. She was to be the example to follow when reacting to other Royal presence, so when her guards eyed her at Lu Xiang’s snubs Fidelia just smiled. Now was too early to cause unnecessary trouble.
“When Quin told me of your circumstance I was initially surprised, but with a bit of digging I found the truth unraveling before my eyes. I found myself filled with such shame, seeing such extreme measures being taken just to maintain the status quo. As the current head of state it falls to me to make things right, which is a duty I take very seriously. How can I expect to enact a change in my nation without leading that change personally?” Fidelia sighed, knowing fully well the cost of going against the established order of things. “I hope inviting you both here does not cause too much pain, I hope this visit can begin the path of healing for us all.”
Quin, meanwhile, was somehow getting the feeling that Lu Xiang did not want to be near him. Was it the fact that she had only taken his arm after her brother set the standard, the fact that she had put as much space between them, or the fact that whenever he so much as glanced in her direction she shot him daggers? Nobody would ever know. Since she was clearly not interested in sharing the polite conversation that Queen Fidelia and her brother were enjoying he instead turned to the two diplomats walking beside him. He was glad both Ok'Ta'Yu and Delith had agreed to follow him here, he hoped that he could get a good word in for them so their trips would be worth it. He also wished to show his new comrades what Vaplana had to offer.
“If you’re both worrying about customs I wouldn’t fret. As long as you are as polite as you have been to me you’ll do well here, we deal with enough foreigners to extend grace and understanding. Her Majesty is the kindest monarch you’ll ever meet. Trust me, just let yourselves get swept away by the surrounding beauty and I assure you you’ll have a great time!”
“Inviting us here was a brave move. The status quo is a powerful thing Queen Fidelia, and some will go to any length to see it maintained. I do not doubt our presence here is enough to upset the balance, forgive me if we are on edge somewhat as much as you likely have no intention of harming us, I firmly believe there are others who will do so without a second thought. Probably they already know of our presence” Lu Xun kept his smile, but his eyes darted to the guards, Lu Xiang also seemed on edge, but she kept up her appearance.
“It is painful, but this visit must happen, we have to see our true home properly” Lu Xiang finally spoke up, giving a brief glance to Quin to likely observe his reaction. She was tense.
“My real question is Queen Fidelia, and sorry for being so frank, you now have two rival contending monarchs for your thrown who have appeared out of nowhere and have a large outside power base. What are your intentions of dealing with us?” Lu Xun seemed to ask the question both as a bit of amusement but also with a hint of truth. His eyes revealing a mix of playfulness and seriousness.
“Do you trust your guard?” Lu Xiang seemed to ask Quinlan quietly, she didn’t even look at the captain. Meanwhile Layak turned to Delaith and Ok’Ta’Yu.
“I assume neither of you have visited this place either? It is far too gaudy for my taste”
Queen Fidelia couldn’t help but let out a small sigh. Lu Xun was clearly a smart man, he had no idea just how true his statement had been. Everyone had been lecturing her ever since she made her intentions clear, saying how stupid she was being for inviting them and how she was inviting nothing but trouble to Vaplana. She knew she was playing with fire, it was true, but if she wanted to enact a change in Vaplanan culture and attitudes she knew she would have to lead by example.
“Some would say brave, others would say incredibly naive. I am willing to upset things if it means I am righting the wrongs of my nation’s past. Is it not the duty of a monarch to lead by example in making their nation a better place? Regardless, I completely understand your reservations. As to my intentions, I divulge them willingly in the hope you too will be honest as to your intentions with me. I wish to befriend you, get to know you. Hopefully, begin to make up for the way you have both been wronged by my people. Eventually, maybe, I hope we may become allies. I know this is a dangerous path to walk, as you said you are rivals to my throne, but I do not wish to push you away before getting to know you both. I vowed to do whatever is in the best interests of Vaplana when I was coronated, and making an enemy of two powerful individuals such as yourselves is not pursuant to that goal.”
Quin was happy that Lu Xiang was finally speaking up. Although, he could feel how tense she was as she held his arm. Her comments about how gaudy Vaplana was did not pass him by, but he showed no external reaction to her probes. She was entitled to her opinion, who was he to argue with a Queen?
“It is not the guards you should worry about, Your Majesty. I trust them all absolutely. It is the nobles and politicians that will cause us issue.” Quin spoke softly, barely above a whisper. “They will be watching our every move like hawks, waiting for the perfect moment to begin playing their games. Just follow Queen Fidelia’s lead, she has been keeping them at bay for weeks I am sure.” He did not wish to alarm Lu Xiang, but he couldn’t exactly lie either. She needed to know what would come once they left the safety of the Palace Gardens.
Lu Xun raised an eyebrow in appreciation of the Queens openness, it was a trait which End of the Line valued highly. Ironically, because Queen Ismini had forced it into the organisation.
"Very forward with your intentions I see, I must state I respect you for that. It was our mother than emphasised truthfulness in our organisation, something unique to us in regards to privateers. Given you have been truthful I will be too. I am here to see our home, to gauge your power and position and to survey this nation for a potential take over by me and my sister and our organisation. No disrespect of course" He smiled.
"But your willingness to deal with us and, as you say, heal the wounds of the past is a surprise to me. It changes things. I could not imagine our nations working together closely given how far apart we are, but I suppose that is what made my mother and fathers relationship and ruling style unique. Who knows, maybe the future can hold quite interesting things for us both" He winked playfully.
"That does not reassure me Captain. But I hope your men can be trusted, if these nobles try to stop us here we will do whatever is necessary to protect ourselves. I assume you understand that" Lu Xiangs eyes narrowed.
To a degree, Delaith agreed with Layak, which was somewhat of a strange feeling. Royal palaces had never been a locale he particularly enjoyed being in, a lot of resources merely spent on giving an impression of power, a display of wealth or attempt at creating beauty, which was very much in the eye of the beholder.
He himself did prefer a more utilitarian approach to architecture, though even he had to admit that his purpose was entirely removed from that of Vaplanan royalty.
"It is what one would expect from a royal palace of a tourism centred nation but no, I have not been here before in person."
It was one of those things that were technically neither right nor wrong, he of course the exploration data from his assets however, the frame he resided in currently had not been on Vaplana before.
That aside it seems that meaning, at least so far, seemed to be going well, nobody had gone at each others throats yet, even though some seemed to play with the thought. As much as Quinlans words about his guard were reassuring, the pirate Queens concerns were legitimate. There was no telling what the guard or the nobles would do, no absolute in where their loyalties lied, after all, they were no machines. Though he kept silent for neither upsetting Fidelia or Quinlan nor making Li Xiang more distrustful would be a very wise decision right now.
Lu Xun’s confession was nothing Fidelia hadn’t expected. She was glad they had already established enough goodwill to be honest with each other, that was an unexpected bonus at least. If relations remained this positive she may be able to avoid the hostile takeover everyone was expecting.
“I take no offence. In fact, I would be a little disappointed if you were not interested in stealing my crown away. It proves to me that Vaplana is valuable and worth fighting for; and that all my family has sacrificed so far has not been pointless.”
Fidelia couldn’t help but allow her mind to wander for a moment, wondering if her father knew about any of this. If he did, she wished he had kept her in the loop considering she was his only heir. But she also wondered if he would be pleased with how she decided to approach it all. She was brought crashing back into reality when Lu Xun spoke up again. Was he flirting with her?!
The Queen hadn’t actually considered such a relationship when she was planning all this. She had promised her father on his deathbed that she would make a love match as he had with her mother, the prospect of a purely political match had caused so many sleepless nights and arguments with Malax over the years. Hence why she was still unmarried at 31 and 5 years on the throne. Any other Queen would have been married off within the first few years, but she was a stubborn breed.
But… Then again, Lu Xun was friendly enough. And, she hated to admit, he was as handsome as anyone could imagine a King would be. If they gave this time, maybe the connection she wanted would develop… Or it could not. Only time would tell.
“Well, if you have as deep a connection as I have been told your parents had, I’m sure no obstacle could get in the way. Distance in the face of such a love would be meaningless. Or, so I’ve been told.” Fidelia couldn’t help but smile warmly at the memories of her father recounting how he met her mother and their other milestones. She wondered if Lu Xun and Lu Xiang had similar memories of their father telling them his love story.
“And the future could be rather interesting, indeed, but that depends on whether you proceed to steal my crown doesn’t it?” Fidelia quipped back, deciding to match Lu Xun’s energy. She had invited the twins here to make friends, so seeing how far that would go would just be an extension of that.
Quin did not doubt at all that Lu Xiang would retaliate with lethal force if anyone tried anything. He would be shocked if she held back at all, to be honest. But, if it was one of the more problematic nobles on the end of her fury he would be secretly rather grateful, even if the fallout would be intense.
“I want you to know that if anything does happen, my guard will gladly lay down their lives to protect you. As guests of Queen Fidelia that is our duty, and our honour. I know it is not reassuring, but I cannot lie to you. That would do none of us any good, would it?”
“I full agree your majesty” He turned away from her to look forwards towards the palace that they were rapidly approaching.
“So, what is the plan for the events? I like to be prepared” Lu Xiang spoke up, making Lu Xun chuckle, especially in response to the statement about stealing the crown.
“I suppose its whether I set my sights on your crown or your heart Majesty” it was clear the mans sister was not exactly happy about the flirting or the prospect of being cut out of a potential ruling position in Vaplana and it made her body language even more hostile.
“That depends if this is all an elaborate tactic and you have been paid off by the other pirate clans to politically assassinate us at a very precise moment for maximum affect and political value. I barely trust my own guards let alone yours” Once again Layak seemed to smile.
“Do not worry lady Xiang I am fully capable of assisting you”
“That does not make me feel much better”
Fidelia chuckled. Lu Xiang clearly knew little of Vaplanan attitudes if she thought they were in contact with other pirate groups. Those types were not popular here, and it was causing enough scandal to have reached out to their group, let alone others who were less… civilised. Granted, she understood the woman’s paranoia, she would feel the same if their roles were reversed. However, anyone who knew Fidelia even a little knew that she would never even dare to mistreat her guests in any way. The proper treatment of guests is a long and ingrained tradition in Vaplana, and a Royal actively attempting to make a guest uncomfortable let alone kill them would lead to one of the biggest scandals seen in Vaplanan history. It was just not within her character, and even if it was it would be political suicide.
Fidelia stopped her stroll to turn and face Lu Xiang, the stairs that would take them up into the castle just behind her. She did her best to look as friendly and open as she could, even though she knew Lu Xiang would not be swayed by sweet words she could not act coldly. Not now.
“I know my word means very little, Your Majesty, but I can promise you that I hold no ill will towards you, your brother, or your people. I cannot guarantee that also applies to my people, but no danger will come to you from me. I vow to do my best to shield you all from what is to come, after all, they are my people and so my responsibility. Now, as to what is to come.”
She glanced over all of those gathered before her, both the pirates, the Kel’thulian diplomat and the mercenary. What a strange little group she would be presenting to her court…
“I am about to present you in a greeting ceremony to a gathering representing my court. There will be members of my Parliament, politicians, and members of the nobility present. Unfortunately, my Prime Minister Malax Wickford is on important business abroad so cannot make it. The greeting will not take long at all, it is just a presentation of my guests before the crowd. You’ll have time after to prepare for tonight’s banquet celebrating your safe arrival, which is followed by an evening of mingling with members of my court. I wish I could offer you an evening of entertainment or reflective solitude, however, tradition bends for no soul here. Once tonight is over I promise you’ll have much more control over what you see and do here. I am more than happy to show you whatever you wish to see.”
Since their getting-to-know-you conversation seemed to be over Fidelia turned and let the group up the stairs. They entered the palace through a small conservatory filled with brilliant orange orchids surrounding an elaborate water feature. The flowers were native to Vaplana, a rare and beautiful flower famed for its sweet fragrance. It had been the symbol for the Pinnome’s for centuries. They had clearly been lovingly maintained, despite the change in rulers. Just beyond the conservatory lay the palace, they entered into a grand entrance hall through a small side door. Fidelia had clearly led the party this way to show off the conservatory instead of taking them through the main entrance.
She crossed the hall with a presence and purpose only possessed by a Queen on a mission, her demeanour slowly shifting from welcoming and friendly to a woman of steel. Her court had gathered through that door right in front of her, and she needed to be ready to face them. She stood before the doors, turning to her guests for one last time.
“Are you all ready?”
Delaith nodded.
"One would assume so.", it was not like it was a real choice, coming here they would hardly turn around and return to the shuttle.
The Queen had been an interesting individual so far, someone they may be able to reasonably negotiate with, whether this was really 'her' or just a facade remained to be seen. His current concerns lied more with the nobility of this nation. He was a machine built for infiltration and interacting with the mortal races, that much was true but he was also primarily an AI made to combat unknown and esoteric forces, to explore, research and eliminate. Someone made to lead a network of AI.
...which was a far shot from what was required to lead humans and other biological beings. He was not fond of the premise of having to interact with a host of foreign nobles and royalty though so long as Gadreth was still missing it would be falling into his, or rather his AI-ancestors, responsibility.
His other concern was how said nobility would react to the pirates and likewise a factor which would likely determine this entire operations outcome and potentially even the nations fate. Something he would rather not be responsible for. However, on the other hand he would likely negotiate with the leader of the nation regardless of who it may turn out to be.
Lu Xiang looked Fidelia in the eyes as she stopped and made her promise. It was in this moment it became very obvious to the queen how exhausted Xiang looked, like she had been fighting her whole life for scraps at a table. Lu Xun wore the same look albeit he was far better at hiding it. Surprisingly Lu Xiang did not quip back or make some snide comment but merely stared into the Queens eyes and nodded.
The group seemed impressed with the palace as they made their way in, all intently listening to Fidelia as she laid out the progress of events. Both the twins stopped for a brief moment in the conservatory, looking at the beautiful flowers and even making Xiang smile as she remembered her mother fondly talking of such plants as a child.
Still, they readied themselves, Lu Xun straightened his suit and brushed himself down, Lu Xiang flittered with her hair and rolled her muscles almost like she was readying herself for a fight.
“I think I would rather face down a firing squad” She commented, making her brother laugh for a moment.
“Ready whenever you are your majesty”
Ok'ta'yu nodded. "I am indeed prepared," he responded- his eyes emitting a soft glow and his mandibles chattering beneath his mask- with an approximation of a friendly smile. "May it go well, under the light of the stars.
Underneath the metaphorical mask, he was quite stressed. How far away from Kel'thul was Vaplana? Surely quite far- though maybe not to the same degree as the gilded expanse of ancerium at the galaxy's core. No matter- he was far from home, watching diplomacy between a nation he'd not heard of before a few weeks ago and the pirates that held a birthright to their throne.
Despite the friendliness, and his general demeanor, he was really just ready to go home.
In spite of that, he pushed the feelings down. Maybe he might like it here, if he gives it a chance.
Fidelia nodded to a palace attendant when everybody was ready, who proceeded to swing open the large double doors that stood between her and her subjects. On the other side stood Thalia. She stopped scanning the crowd from the sidelines for a moment to smile at her brother before stepping forward to announce their arrival.
“Queen Fidelia the first presents her honoured guests, King and Queen Lu Xun and Lu Xiang of The End of the Line. The distinguished Diplomat Ok'ta'yu, representative of the Grand Empire of Kel'thul. And, finally, the esteemed mercenary Delaith Vargen, agent of APS mercenary group. Honoured guests, we welcome you to Vaplana.” Thalia turned towards the group and curtseyed, the gathered elites of Vaplana following suit. Some were admittedly more enthusiastic about it than others. Once that ceremony was over the nobles went back to chatting amongst themselves, the more friendly looking of the bunch approaching the group to briefly mingle.
The first to approach was a tall young man, dressed finely in the yellows and whites of House Severa.
“It is a pleasure to meet you all. I am Siyan Severa, eldest son of Duchess Kathryn. I look forward to getting to know the real people behind the scary pirate stories I have heard flung about the room today. I tell you, these folks love to exaggerate, I do hope it does not put you off from enjoying yourselves. Just between you and I, I know dearest Fidelia will take very good care of you. She has been fretting about making your stay here perfect ever since it was decided!” Siyan, clearly, was a jolly man. He smiled brightly at all of the guests, but seemed to be paying particular attention to Lu Xun.
“Siyan and I have been close friends since we were children.” Fidelia smiled politely and attempted to explain this man’s unnatural closeness to the monarch.
“Not as close as you and Liliya, you have to admit that. Speaking of, my sister sends her regrets but felt it unwise for us both to attend.” Fidelia nodded sombrely, her dear friend’s presence would be greatly missed, however, the security implications of removing her from the safety of her home right now would be too great.
Meanwhile, Delaith and Ok'ta'yu found themselves slowly being separated from the other guests and absorbed into the crowd of nobles. The elites were very eager in asking them all kinds of questions about their backgrounds, their work, and what brought them to Vaplana. While there seemed to be an uneasy divide between the Vaplanan’s and the Pirates, there was no such tension between them and Delaith and Ok'ta'yu. They were almost overwhelmingly welcoming…
The man at the centre of this group of enthused nobles introduced himself to the two as Duke Zaros Mercia. He wore a red waistcoat embroidered all over with roses, and he even seemed to smell like a rose garden. He held his hand out to shake, giving off the air of a businessman instead of a noble. The pair noticed he had discreetly slipped a business card into their hands after the handshake, which stated that the man before them was the CEO of Mercia Incorporated.
“I look forward to getting to know you both at the banquet later, we will not get much opportunity to properly converse here. This ceremony is for introductions only, unfortunately.” No sooner had he said those words another announcement was made. It had only been 10 minutes, but it seemed the gathering was coming to an end. The nobles began to filter out of the room, going to prepare themselves for the dinner that was to be held soon.
Delaith stood around, bowed formally, shook hands, answered questions and nodded in agreement or acknowledgement. Though he kept a professional aura and demeanour on the outside, he first and foremost sighed in relief on the inside, as the meeting finally came to an end.
He felt a mix of accomplishment and discontent, although he had played his role well so far and human nobles had a tendency to be a valuable source of information, that did not mean he was particularly fond of interacting with them either way. With their arrogance, vanity, greed and tendencies to make things complicated, they usually embodied most of the qualities which he associated with the most problematic sides of mortal races.
However, he had to admit, it was less severe here on Vaplana than in some other places, even if that may only be the surface. Ultimately it would take time to judge this.
He had kept an eye on the pirates and their host during his brief conversations, though fortunately, so far, nothing bad had happened.
As the assembly of nobles began to leave he looked around and made an attempt to return to the rest of the group, he would likely be stuck with nobles for long enough this evening.
Both the twins bowed as they were announced, perfectly in fact, like they had been drilled in custom. It was not surprise however, given who their mother was.
Lu Xun held out his hand to shake Syan Severa and smiled.
“Well you know how exaggerating things tends to reinforce ideas, its good to know our reputation precedes us, thank you for the warm welcome we are both eager to learn about Vaplanan nobility and much of this world. The Queen is doing a wonderful job so far” Lu Xiang merely nodded in appreciation, her face still a mix now between distrustful and emotional. She had grown up as a child imagining herself as a princess and queen of Vaplana walking these halls and talking to her subjects. Lu Xun had taken her inaction as a sign to take the lead. Truth be told, Lu Xiang was trying to hold back tears.
“The strongest of bonds are those formed in childhood I find, tell me, truthfully if you may how many were staunchly opposed to our coming?” The Pirate king studied the mans body language carefully, years of pirate work had told him how to read if someone was lying and his eyes constantly flittered to not just the queen but the others who had accompanied them, it was not hard to notice Ok’Ta’yu and Delaith were being welcomed more than the two of them.
“It seems they have taken the spotlight” Lu Xun chuckled.
Oktayu conversed politely with the assortment of nobles, answering inquiries and providing questions of his own, while his eyes glowered with his species' equivalent of smiling. This polite, open demeanor was kept up for most of the meeting- though it wavered slightly near the end- before he was relieved that the meeting was coming to a close, the exhaustion of long conversation setting in. So much talk, and not much of importance done. If only the people would be as welcoming as this to the twins, then maybe proceedings would speed up and look less tense from the distance he stood at.
Nonetheless, he gathered back up with that of Delaith, as it'd surely be a long time, this beaurocracy and the like.
"The people of this nation are surely interesting, dont you think?" he said absentmindedly to the 'mercenary',
"They are certainly different from the nobles I am used to working or dealing with.", Delaith noted truthfully, he still was not particularly fond of spending the whole evening with them though.
"It appears we will be spending a lot of time getting to know them this evening. It makes me wonder how these proceedings compare to your own homeworld and how an reception like this would've gone if the queen visited the End of the Line."
His gaze wandered to the twins which seemed to be fine with their situation so far, the brother seemed to be well in his element, however, he had a hard time interpreting the expression of the sister.
He turned towards the queen and addressed her, though not without the necessary respect, half out of formality and half because he actually found her noteworthy so far, nodding a repeated greeting and a hinted bow.
"I congratulate you, Queen Fidelia, your nobles seem to be a curious breed, though they seem to be... well controlled, so far."
He paused, looking at the last departing nobles.
"What are the plans for the evening then , if I may ask and are there any things we should be wary or aware of?"
Siyan couldn’t help but glance between Lu Xun and Fidelia at Lu Xun’s positive comments towards her. The tiniest of scowls pulled at his lips, lasting only for a mere moment before being swiftly replaced with his usual cheery demeanour. It would only be noticed if someone were paying him particular attention, and Queen Fidelia having been surveying the wider room did not notice. He took a long moment, looking at her for slightly too long, before replying to Lu Xun.
“If you are to learn one thing about those gathered here today, let it be this. Take nothing they say as truth, nor as outright lies. It is always impossible to tell anyone’s true intentions from just a meeting, or even from decades of friendship. We Vaplanans simultaneously keep our true selves carefully concealed, but also wear our hearts on our sleeves. As such, it is almost impossible to tell how many truly sit on either side. But, if you were to go by what has been openly said… It would be evenly split.”
Queen Fidelia nodded at her friend’s monologue. It was truly a good summary, especially for a concept that was so hard to describe to foreigners. She could not have spoken the truth any more eloquently.
“They were always to have the spotlight, at least initially. My flock fear changes to the established order, and due to our way of conducting business mercenaries are very valuable connections to have here. Diplomats, too, are sought-after connections here with their skills being so highly valued in our culture. It seems it is their fate to overshadow us tonight, but that may be for the best.” Queen Fidelia gazed across the hall to the gathering of nobles, her two guests at its epicentre. She was glad to see them looking so confident as the crowd thinned, she had been a little worried they would get swallowed whole.
“Curious is certainly one word to describe it. They are on their best behaviour, and I suspect they shall remain so until each of you has been carefully examined thoroughly. That includes myself, so pelase do not feel singled out.”
“We have a few hours until the feast this evening. There will be plenty of food, music, dancing, but… Our every move will be scrutinised, from every angle, all at once. Anything less than perfection will be exploited. I would get some rest, and get your stories in order. They do exchange notes, and any irregularity will be quickly discovered.” Fidelia was staring off into the distance by the end of her explanation, her mind split between the here and now and the distant past. Siyan picked up on this immediately and placed a hand on her shoulder, attempting to ground Her Majesty.
“I would take her advice, dear guests. Go and rest, you will need your strength for the trials ahead.” He looked to Quin and Thalia to lead the group away to their rooms. He drew Fidelia into a one-armed hug, a sly grin on his face as he watched Lu Xun’s retreating back.
Lu Xun noticed; he always did. As Siyan filled them in he was actually rather surprised, he felt that instead of telling him and his sister about Vaplanan court politics they were instead being retold their own experiences and knowledge dealing with the pirate families. Nothing was truth, everything was a façade, the real truth wrapped in so much dressing that one’s instincts had to be so on point to know immediately from the slightest expression or tone of voice. To not have those instincts led to backstabbing and death. Lu Xiang even raised an eyebrow.
“I did not expect to come here to find the political games of our rival families and underlings playing out before us. Perhaps father and mothers’ realms were not so different after all”
The bluntness and insulting nature of his sister’s comment made Lu Xun smirk with a highly amused gesture.
“It truly is just like home. We may fit in well here more than we thought, besides I am used to being scrutinised, to show a moment of weakness to the families is to invite betrayal. We shall retire then and prepare for this event” His eyes didn’t stray from Siyan as they withdrew, Lu Xun turning to the others who were with them.
“Be on your guard, things are not as they seem here” His voice was barely above a whisper to Delaith and Oktayu. He knew Siyan was trying to court the Queen, just from the small grin. Oh how the same games played out again and again, it truly must be like this across the galaxy. As they were escorted to their room Lu Xiang began to speak to her brother in sign language.
Do you really intend to marry her?
I can see it being an effective power play to merge our peoples, however she is rather beautiful
And what about me?
I think you would do well of the Vaplanans new military establishment, no? I know you don’t like politics as I do
Very well. Let us prepare
Delaith nodded in response to Fidelias answer, then again for Siyan. He already wondered how things would run this evening between the nobles and their guests. Fortunately 'getting his stories straight' was effectively what he had been made for and so far he had been successful.
The looks Siyan threw towards the queen were not lost on him and neither were the fact that Lu'Xun was unlikely to be particularly pleased about them. This would likely also make it interesting to see how these two would interact. He pondered for a moment, perhaps he should've downloaded additional diplomatic and emphatic sub-AI on their way here, though now it was too late.
"I shall be retreating then, we wish you a successful evening.", he noted, taking note of what the pirate lord told them but not showing any reaction and waiting for either Thalia or Quin to lead them to what they may use to accommodate their guests.
As they wandered off, like Siyans looks, the pirates subtle gesturing did not go without his notice, however, without any reference even he couldn't tell what they were discussing between them. In the end, it was once more time to wait, likely time he would spend on studying what he could find on the noble houses of Vaplana.
If Vaplana had been considered beautiful during the height of the day, then the evening proved breathtaking. The sun slowly retreated beyond the horizon, painting the sky with streaks of orange, pink, and red. Best of all, there was yet no hint of any chill in the air. Perfect weather for a stroll in the countryside, or maybe the beach.
Unfortunately for those gathered in the Palace, it was time to feast. They would be stuck inside sharing pointless small talk, carefully circling each other waiting for the smallest sign of weakness. Fidelia loitered outside of the banquet hall, stood in the sweet spot outside where she was invisible from the room’s many huge arching windows and doors. She had to wait until everyone was present before making her entrance, as per custom. But, for just a single moment, she could gaze over her gardens and appreciate how lucky she was to grow up in such a place. The twins hadn’t been so lucky… That thought brought her sadness. To be denied a birthright and miss out on such peace… It was such a terrible fate.
“Everyone has gathered, Your Majesty.”
It was time.
Queen Fidelia strode into the banquet hall. The room was longer than it was wide with a large dance floor in the centre. Round tables filled the edges of the room where everyone who was anyone sat staring at her. She looked at each table in turn as she passed, just as a queen should, while heading to the top table where she could look down upon them all. That was where her guests sat waiting, the table upon a small stage elevating them above the rest. She took a moment to stand at her seat, being sure to pick out some familiar faces amoung the crowd.
Duke and Duchess Mercia sat on the table closest to the head, the Duke staring directly back at her. Such pride… Siyan was opposite the two, looking on with pride. He would have to learn to hide his feelings better, Fidelia couldn’t help but wonder. There were some other notable people, namely Duke Azarus Laskaris and his great-aunt Lady Echeveria. They had their eyes locked on Lu Xun. Or, more specifically, the stunning necklace displayed proudly around his neck. There was also Duke Vex Navarro, an elderly gentleman and family man. He brought a different nephew, niece or grandchild, to each different event he attended, keen to socialise his huge family with the gathered elite. Today he brought his cousin’s niece Corinna, it seemed. She was very young, only 17, but she seemed especially politically ambitious for someone so distantly related to greatness. At least, that was what Fidelia had been told.
Once the Queen took her seat servants flooded the room, taking a huge assortment of dishes to each table. Chatter finally replaced the silence that stood before, and everyone gathered seemed to relax just a little.
Lu Xun had stood watching from a window out across the gardens, the colours of the sunset running into one another and soothing him. He had seen holographics of this moment much of his life, but nothing quite compared to seeing it himself.
"Brother it is time" He nodded to himself and turned, making sure his necklace was visible and smiled to Lu Xiang.
"Then lets show them their future"
The twins stayed close to Fidelia, eyes constantly scanning and on alert for danger. Lu Xun couldn't help but smile to any noble who looked at them with clearly concealed distain, especially Lady Echeveria, who didn't even seem to be hiding it anymore.
It was all like some kind of dream, a huge royal banquet, beautiful architecture, legions of nobles and impressive outfits. These were the focus of tales recounted by their mother, and it made both of the twins happy they could experience it in person. Taking their seats both Lu Xiang and Lu Xun handled themselves to perfect Vaplanan custom, both sitting at the same time as if orchestrated, placing hands upon table but not elbows and sitting up perfectly straight. It was like they were born here. It was all about image and perception, that transcended this place and was true for their own domain too.
"Quite the show your majesty, this is all rather impressive, like the old tales of our mother" Lu Xun quietly spoke.
"If there is one thing we Vaplanans are good at, it is putting on a good show." Fidelia smiled. The twins were exceeding her expectations, the way they had clearly done their homework and perfected their facades to be here was certainly a welcome surprise. It would make swaying the nobles from their dislike for them easier, for sure. But... was that really a good thing? Fidelia knew she was playing with fire just inviting them here. She couldn't help but notice that they seemed to be almost a better fit for this life than she was. It would surely only be a matter of time before the others noticed, and if she hadn't won the twins's loyalty by then it would surely be all over for her.
"I am glad we are meeting your expectations. It may be too early to make such a guess, but I see you both fitting in well here if that would be your desire. Once they get to know you better I'm sure they will stop hating you. Openly, at least." Fidelia gestured to the nobles feasting below.
"I want to see you both happy and fulfilled. If it not too personal, please do tell me what I could do for both of you to achieve this. It is the least I can do to make up for the damage done to your family by us."
By the time the queen and the twins arrived, Delaith had already been sitting at the front table. As per custom, as one of the guests (and the lowest ranking one,) he had been introduced earlier and was then allowed to the top table.
"Delaith Vargen, Representative of the mercenary company 'Advanced Paramilitary Solutions'" The speaker had noted and it garnered quite a number of both curious and concerned looks, logical, considering his kind was rare on this planet and under this government, unspoken words coming out of eyes that observed him, wondering if he could be useful to them.
He was quite certain there would be at least one person who would try to make him an offer this evening, though it still was some time until then.
Regardless, as his name was called he had bowed to the audience with educated and experienced excellence and then made his way to the table without giving them any more attention than necessary just yet. He was actually wearing a new suit now, one that had been recommended when he was in his preparation for the event, fortunately he had a fairly standard size so it wasn't much of an issue to find one.
"It certainly is an impressive event so far.", he noted in response to Fidelia.
"It is unfortunate Ok could not attend this evening."
The Kel'thulian had apparently received a call from his homeworld and had not been seen again since, although his presence had still been announced, so was that he was unable to attend, as such he was currently alone with the queen and the twins.
"Oh I don't doubt it" Lu Xiang muttered causing her brother to smile.
"People never stop hating us your majesty, even openly in some cases" He grinned. He nodded to Delaith as he took a seat and mentioned that Ok had returned home. He didn't blame the man, the mercenaries and representatives had been through a great deal on this chase.
"I could tell you a few things that would make us feel happy and fulfilled but I am not sure it would be the time or the relative place your majesty to say such things in front of guests" Lu Xun winked, he was obviously teasing and he flatly made it as obvious as possible as to cause Siyan trouble.
"Perhaps, who knows, in time our cultures may even respect one another however I think a lot will have to be done to repair that damage" Lu Xiang finally spoke up.
"So what's on the menu then? I assume your not going for the pirate custom of your greatest enemies head on a plate this time around your majesty?" Lu Xun was blatantly enjoying himself.
“It is a shame Ok'ta'yu could not join us, indeed. Let us hope his journey home is uneventful.” Fidelia had been a little disappointed by the diplomat’s sudden departure, she had wanted to get to know his people a little better. But, thinking about all that had happened recently on Aedleshaven, maybe it would be for the best…
Fidelia couldn’t help but catch Siyan’s eye as she was gazing across the hall. He was acting rather anti-social, not at all like himself. He seemed to only have eyes for the head table which was a huge snub to those he was seated with… She would have to ask if he was feeling at all under the weather later on. She was pulled back to earth by Lu Xun. He had seriously stepped up his flirting game, and while Fidelia did not outwardly act flustered she had never had anyone flirt so outwardly with her before.
She decided to shoot him a sly look to inform him of the unspoken line he was dancing on.
“If you say things like that within earshot of the other guests you will bring nothing but scandal to your name, Lu Xun.” Fidelia chuckled. After the initial shock at the boldness, she decided she was surprisingly fond of the tactic. It was never something a Vaplanan suitor would attempt since such flirtatious displays of affection were an uncomfortable subject in public view. Queen Fidelia could not help but wonder what else was different between Vaplanan and End of the Line’s culture…
“I have no doubt reconciliation will be a long road, but please know I am eager to begin the process. However, I am sorry to say we certainly do not serve anyone’s head on a platter.” She rolled her eyes. She was so desperately trying to make progress with Lu Xiang, but her brother was making it rather… difficult. She could not take matters so seriously when he was being such a jokester right next to her!
There was a large platter of food available for the guests to try. The centrepiece was a large cut of succulent Vaplanan beef adorned with many rare herbs and edible flowers found only on Vaplana. To go with it there were vegetables of many colours. If beef was not favoured, the guests also had a choice between fresh fish, colourful vegetable soup, or an impressively tall layered pasta dish. For dessert came many different pastries filled with different sweet flavours, a brilliant pink jelly served with cream, and the centrepiece being a four-tiered cake decorated with a waterfall of orange orchids, the ones the group had seen earlier that had once-upon-a-time been the symbolic flower of the Pinnome Royal Family, together with lavender flowers, Fidelia’s symbol. She looked to the twins discreetly, hoping that her boldness had won some affection. The act certainly had divided her nobles, all below murmuring to each other and shooting their Queen confused or concerned glances. They all know what she meant by doing that, but did the twins?
Once the food was over the tables were quickly cleared so the mingling and dancing could begin. The music swelled and couples took to the floor, and it seemed the invisible barrier between the top table and the others melted. Everyone was now free to approach whom they pleased. Duke Mercia did not wait around, he immediately made moves to attract Delaith’s attention.
"My dear Queen you don't live the life of a pirate king without a good scandal to get the blood running every so often" He grinned devilishly.
At the sight of the food both twins seemed impressed. Lu Xiang even had a hint of a smile looking at the cake, but surprisingly she took he vegetable soup option, happily digging in and enjoying it.
"You know, my sister isn't a meat eater. She gets that from our mother, it may surprise you to know she did not like to eat meat and only did so publicly to keep up appearances. I myself dont really mind, but its interesting to think about, many things get hidden to play the part in politics, it makes me not want to bother with it all sometimes" Lu Xun told Fidelia while they were out of earshot of his sister. He himself went for the beef, giving a look of real contentment as he tucked in. They both had some of the cake, Lu Xiang taking time to appreciate the artistry.
"I enjoy cooking and cake making, I can tell real passion went into this meal" She commented out loud "It is greatly appreciated, my thanks to the chefs"
"Mm I too very much enjoyed that thank you, your majesty. It was a nice touch. The decorations are far more subtle than I am used to but that just keeps my eyes sharp."
Lu Xiang seemed to enjoy sitting and relaxing while Lu Xun was clearly eager to discuss more with the queen, though he watched Mercia make his way over to the table.
"Say your majesty, have you experienced much of space?"
Delaith had been listening to the conversation between the Queen and the Twins, though himself mostly remained silent, the courting and prodding between the two sides was outside of his responsibilities even though the outcome would likely have its own set of consequences for him.
During the banquet he seemed to take a piece of the proverbial 'main event' but notably otherwise stuck to the more exotic options on the menu, though this time mostly out of personal curiosity rather than any sort of secondary thoughts on how it may display himself. The fact that Lu Xiang seemed to be a vegetarian was a surprise even to him though, one never ceased to learn new things.
Taking note of the Duke approaching he looked at the queen and the twins for a moment then nodded, he'd be leaving the table for the moment as not to disturb the Queen and the Twins, although from what he read from Duke Mercia, he would likely take no issue to that.
"It appears my attention is desired elsewhere, I wish all of you a pleasant event."
He stood up and put his chair back in place silently then approached the Duke and bowed elegantly as a greeting.
"A fine day to you and my greetings, Duke Mercia if memory serves correctly, yes?", his voice was probing but the tone perfectly polite, he wondered what would come of this.
"Indeed, indeed. Good evening to you, Mr Vargen. I hope you have been treated well during your stay on Vaplana." The Duke placed a hand between Delaith's shoulder blades and gently led him away from the top table, towards a secluded corner of the ballroom.
"I trust you have been adequately compensated for your work?" He took two drinks from a passing waiter, passing one to the 'mercenary' before taking a sip. "Pardon my boldness, but what are your plans when this event is over? I suspect the Queen has many jobs lied up for you, considering how you took such an important role in assisting her Captain." The Duke was asking questions, but the look in his eyes implied that he knew exactly what Delaith would say before he even replied.
Fidelia had felt such a sense of relief when her guests voiced such praise for her feast. Her army of cooks and bakers were certainly going to be greatly rewarded for their efforts, she would personally see to that. When the twins both took and enjoyed some of the cake Fidelia was beaming with joy, the most sincere smile the guests had seen plastered her face. In that moment, nobody else in the room mattered. Not even Siyan scowling in periphery could put a dampener on her joy.
"I wish I could say yes to that question, but in all honesty I have never had the opportunity to leave Vaplana. When I was a girl I was my father's sole heir, and he was not a man to take risks. And now... Well, as you both well know ruling is such a huge responsibility. I am blessed to have Malax at my side to help, but with everything going on right now he insists it would be foolish to leave Vaplana without good cause. He is right, he always is, but I would do anything to see more of what the galaxy as to offer. I'm sure you have both seen so much... Say, what are your favourite places out there?"
Lu Xun raised an eyebrow. Lu Xiang herself gagged for a moment in response to Fidelia.
"You... have never left this planets atmosphere?" The actual shock and clear exasperation in Lu Xiangs voice was palpable.
"That... Surprises me your majesty. With all do respect, I think that's something you ought to fix rather quickly. Space gives you a perspective that nothing else in this universe can. Vaplala is beautiful yes, its vistas unique, but looking down onto a world and seeing it as a tiny marble shows you how vast and awesome this reality is. For my favourite place... I used to enjoy home, Lost Star that is, the old one not the new one. Now, I like to watch the Golden Expanse from the inside, I would like to show you sometime" He smiled.
"I think my favourite place would be Natar, you can get everything you wish there like Lost Star but without the overwhelming nature of that place. I rarely get to go there however" His sister added.
"Say, your majesty. What are your plans later?" A devilish grin crossed Lu Xuns face.
Delaith follow the duke without resistance. He had brought up an interesting point, he had indeed not been paid yet. On the other hand, had he returned the amulet? Uncertain. Would he be busy after this evening? Most certainly, regardless of what the evening held.
However, none of that was the dukes business really.
Delaith smiled mysteriously in response and sipped from the offered drink with dignity.
"Ah, certainly an interesting question is it not? But, as we both know, in my business, secrecy is a value that is worth it's proverbial weight in gold. I cannot disclose any of this information to you and it is most likely I will not be available after this evening."
He paused for a moment for effect, then continued.
"However, it is rather obvious, that a company does not consist of a single man. I'm sure if there is something you are interested in, or other information you wish to acquire, we can surely come to an agreement."
He already had his suspicions as to what the Duke wanted, after all he had prepared before the evening, he had heard the rumours that the Duke had run into controversy after building up a 'private security' detachment to protect his assets.
"What about you? If I may ask, I hear house Mercia is quite sizeable in the tourism business? How has the market been developing since... well, as of late?"
The Duke let out a short chuckle before taking another sip. "It is refreshing to meet a man who values discretion as much as I. It is a rare thing in these halls. Many would spill whatever secrets necessary to serve their own ends. With an attitude like that, I have no doubt that you will indeed be incredibly popular after this evening." Mercia wore a wide grin, much more real-looking than his practiced smiles shown earlier.
"You are proving to also be wise, Mr Vargen. My business may look infallible from the outside currently, but as we all know the war will catch up to all eventually. I am already beginning to witness the first signs of a dip in profits. But that is of no concern to me, I have much larger and longer-term issues to ponder. Issues I was hoping to have your assistance with, if I am capable of outbidding my competitors for your time. Name your price, Delaith Vargen."
Fidelia looked shocked at the twins' extreme reaction to her confession. Most Vaplanan rulers had never left the atmosphere, in fact the twins' mother was only one of a handful who had seen space with their own eyes. Many preferred to leave that business to their diplomats and Prime Ministers. But, if Fidelia was ever to be the best Queen she could be, should she not also aim to experience everything she could? Gain as much knowledge and insight into affairs larger than her small homeworld? Thinking about it like that, it was shameful to admit her failings. Her blind acceptance of tradition, always being good and doing as she was told... It was no wonder so many in her court looked upon her as weak. She pouted, a dejected look in her eyes.
"Those places seem wonderful, I truly hope to find an opportunity to see more one day. It must be so liberating, being able to go wherever you wish..." At that moment Siyan approached the top table looking concerned. He did not interrupt the conversation, it would be a great offence to his Queen to do so, but he looked as if he wanted to interrupt with every passing moment. He clearly did not like seeing Fidelia upset.
"Plans? After dancing tonight I have nothing scheduled..." Siyan opened his mouth to speak, but Fidelia shot him a filthy look over Lu Xun's shoulder. As much as she cared for her friend, she would not let him meddle now. The evening had been progressing much better than she had ever even dreamed to hope, and Siyan had made his reservations more than clear in the build up. Fidelia was certainly not in the mood to hear it. Siyan, at this, had a rather sour look on his face. Confusion, hurt, betrayal, but most of all jealousy.
Delaith pondered for a moment.
Having the favour of a man as important as Duke Mercia was certainly an interesting prospect, his influence could help the APS and by extension the Network take foot in Vaplana.
However, he was still here as a guest of the queen and from his research he knew Duke Mercia was not a person that liked to hear that he was not the top priority. On the other hand...
He looked over to the table of the Queen and Pirates out of the corner of the eye.
It did not look like the queen would be needing any of his assistance on this evening at least, so he could likely spare a few hours or some in the next few days, if that was not possible. He'd have to be smart about how he worded his response...
"Oh, that wholly depends on how urgently you wish to discuss the topic! I'm sure I can spare an hour or two after this event, we could talk right here if you so wish and the matter is not too confidental, then I could give you an estimate of the involved commitments. However..."
He paused for effect and lowered his voice.
"My company focuses on specialist deployments, tasks that require experience or delicacy and we both know, these sorts of matters are best discussed in private and with due preparation. My offer would be... that YOU pick a date past this event and in turn I will make sure I or one of my close confidants will be freely and readily available to discuss all of the details at your leisure."
Lu Xun couldnt help but smirk at the rebuttal by the Queen. He knew this Siyan had interest in her, likely a close choice for courtier. But the Pirate King had his own plans, and he didnt like the man Siyan, not at all. Something felt off about him.
"I can attest that they are indeed wonderful your majesty. Perhaps you would like to accompany me there sometime? Fret not, I am not my father, there wont be any kidnapping this time at the least" He chuckled to himself, Lu Xiang smiled as she eat.
"But, more importantly, if you have nothing scheduled... I would be most honoured to show you first hand your own world. To clarify, you have seen the beauty down here, the grass, the trees, the sky, but you have not seen how truly stunning it is from above. If you would permit me, I would show you space. Of course I understand security concerns, I would be willing to use a Vaplanan vessel and have your guard accompany us. But I believe in order to rule something, you should truly appreciate all of it, and how can you do that when you only have seen part of the picture?" He gestured with his hand to make a globe shape, his voice being as enticing as possible.
>Started analyzation of pendant 'Key'
>Origin?
>Traces lead to GE.
>Perhaps Nakai? Or other ancient civilization?
>Analyzation complete.
>New directive, stay with targets Alpha, and Beta. Find origin or target of key. Report.
>Rebooting LaylakPrime.exe
Laylak turned his head from side to side. His vision filled with readouts and a synopsis of what happened while he was 'away.' He had hoped to figure out more, but what he had found was more than enough for now. He obviously wasn't eating, but opted to interject.
"The view from space is quite magnificent! When I was first off the assembly line and sent to war the view of the homeworld was quite dashing!" Laylak gave a chuckle, and returned to silence. He was a bodyguard first, but an occasional jovial comment always help make the vantablack war robot far less intimidating.
"That is a suitable arrangement," Duke Mercia pulled another of his business cards from a pocket and quickly noted a date and time next to the address before handing it to Delaith. "I would rather hope to see you personally, but I understand that men like us are in high demand. You, or an accomplished colleague of yours, are more than welcome to visit my company's head office to discuss this business further."
The Duke took one last triumphant sip of his drink.
"I thank you for taking the time out of this celebration to talk business with me. I wish you a pleasant stay here in paradise, Mr Vargen." With a parting gesture, the Duke merged back into the crowd, likely heading back to his table to tell his dear wife the good news.
"You all are rather convincing, how could I ever say no to three such glowing testimonials! Even if there is a more than slight risk of kidnapping, I now simply cannot help myself. I would be honoured to accept your generous invitation!" The Queen beamed, much to Siyan's clear and growing horror. "Quin will be more than sufficient as an escort, wouldn't you say dear Siyan?"
"I would personally offer to also accompany you, Your Majesty... Quin's skill is well known, it is true, but he is still only one man."
"Siyan, don't flatter yourself." Fidelia scoffed, waving a hand at him dismissively. "You are no trained knight. My dear friend yes, but unfortunately not trained. As my friend I would never ask for such a thing, it would not be honourable nor would it be right. Liliya would never forgive me for demeaning you like that."
"It is settled, then?" Fidelia turned back to Lu Xun. "I don't feel it necessary to bring anyone else, I trust you would consider me far too demanding to kidnap me, being a Queen and all." Fidelia noticed out of the corner of her eye, Duke Laskaris and Lady Echeveria approach the top table, their eyes locked onto Lu Xun and his necklace. That was one bag of worms Fidelia certianly did not want to even approach. Desperate measures must be taken immediately...
"Lu Xun, let us seal the deal with a dance, if you will allow me the pleasure." Fidelia rose to her feet quickly, offering her hand to him. She kept her back to the approaching nobles. She could not meet their eyes, or she would be bound to stay and hear them out. She just hoped Lu Xun would get the hint, and Lu Xiang would be content seeing the pair off if they had the confidence to speak to her.
Delaith nodded courtly as the Duke disappeared into the crowd, that was this dealt with and another potential contact secured, he would have to see to the meeting itself going well later but that was not an immediate issue.
He looks around in silence for a couple moments longer though it seemed the Dukes approach had, at least for the moment, kept the other guest from approaching him, so he returned to the table, just in time to watch Lu Xun leave with Queen Fidelia for a dance, as Lu Xiang watched.
He pondered for a moment.
Why not? It would be a good way to foster relations and even if the Pirate queen did not seem to be the most amicable person, he had already been surprised once this evening. It may also help mend relations with the locals. Which would be in the interests of the both of them.
He bowed formally with a display of all the necessary respect and then offered a hand.
"May I interest you in a dance as well?"
His voice was formal and almost businesslike, he was uncertain on how exactly to approach the situation but continued regardless, this time in a softer, lowered, tone.
"Though I am not not one of the nobles or one to court queens, I am certain it would be preferable to sitting on the proverbial and literal serving tray all evening."
His gaze moved to the side in a telling manner, where the nobles sat, stood and danced behind him, many of them observing the table of the queen with various degress of more or less concealed interest.
"Besides... If we are here we may as well enjoy the evening."
"A wise and most progressive descision Queen Fidelia. I do think that Quinlan is most suited for the escort, I have gotten to know him and trust him as well I am sure if we are suddenly attacked in the void both his and my sword will be more than adequate protection for your highness" Lu Xun's sly grin was palpable, and he didn't even try to hide it from Siyan.
"I am sure if your majesty did wanted to be kidnapped I could arrange something melodramatic and daring. But I am eager to show you the wonders of both the universe and your world" He bowed slightly. Lu Xiang rolled her eyes over her brothers comments, but the two twins had not been unaware of the approaching of the Duke and Lady. They knew well these were the ones they had stolen the necklace from, or rather taken it back from.
Lu Xun beamed and took the Queens hand, standing up and straightening his garmants "It would be an honour your majesty. Come on Layak, if your back maybe you can find a good dance too" He laughed. Lu Xiang did not get up, she seemingly was quite eager to tell the nobles her opinions, a potentially dangerous proposition. That was until Delaith offered her his hand.
Lu Xiang was quite taken aback for a moment, defensive but then seemed quite pleased. She admired the mans tenacity and outright confidence to approach her, not even the majority of the Pirate lords would dare to do that.
"I am impressed. I accept" She rose from her seat, smiling to the Duke and Lady as she took Delaiths hand.
Laylak paused for a long moment sitting at the table, before the large mechanized man stood. Looking down to the chair to make sure he hadn't broken it. His mechanical face had no emotion to show but his mannerisms were quite peppy. His legs would be utterly silent strangely if not for the loud thudding of his weight. Truly a bot that had yet to be seen by most. He approached the duke, and gave a courtesy. Taking off his top hat and twirling it as he moved it to his chest. "Most esteemed Duke Mercia, I couldn't help but notice your utter extravagance! How you carry yourself, why! I almost thought you were the queen for a moment." Laylak gave a chortle. Both of the twins knew more than well by now while he took his job rather seriously, he was sometimes too much of a joker. "May I interest you in a dance my lord?"
As Delaith headed to the dance floor with Lu Xiang he already listened in to the music which was playing, nodding politely towards other passing guests though giving no further mind or reaction should there be any odd looks thrown their way.
Arriving at a convenient spot to start he made the first steps, first slowly to get a feel of what the pirate queen was capable of, though he assumed that amongst other things their mother may have taught them to dance as well, even if this sort of event may not exactly be common amongst her kind.
As they began to dance threw a couple of looks into the surroundings to gauge to overall situation, seeing Laylak approach the duke he could not shake a mild amusement but then eventually focused on his dance partner.
"So, what do you say? A rather curious event so far, many things I did not expect already occurred today, what are your thoughts on the evening? Given your heritage, did the End of the Line ever have any such events? If I may ask."
Duke Mercia had just sat down with his wife when he saw the huge robot approach. He looked up at Laylak with a hint of disdain in his eyes. A loyal lackey of the pirates was not someone whom he could consider useful. Then the bot opened his proverbial mouth... His wife Duchess Danuella couldn't help but chuckle a little at the jokes. The Duke, on the other hand, looked to be holding back pure fury. He shot his wife a sharp look, to which she quickly wiped the smile from her face and looked into her lap. To be 'mistaken' for a woman offended him to his core, no matter how complimentary that was. And, to top it off, Laylack had not even bothered to learn how to address someone of his standing correctly! He had not been called a Lord for decades, before his son had been born even!
"It is Your Grace to you." He spat, the other nobles at his table eyeing the couple with hungry eyes. Laylak, for a robot, had seemed so friendly and cheery to the others at the table, and for the Duke to speak in that tone was a shameful display. i would never lower myself to dance with a ma-" His wife, being the socialite she was, noticed their fellow nobles's surprised and gleeful expressions. She knew what was going to happen, ruours of her husband's rude demeanour would spread like wildfire if she did not smother it now. She grabbed his sleeve under the table and yanked hard, his ear now in line with her mouth.
"Zaros, people are watching. Being rude to a guest is unsightly behaviour, I suggest you swallow your damned pride for two fucking minutes if you care even at all about our family's reputation." She hissed before letting her husband go. He straightened himself, took a breath, and looked back up at Laylak.
"I apologise, I do not know what came over me. I would be glad to have a dance..." The Duke looked a little sour, like a teen being forced to talk to their boring older relatives, but let himself be led to the dancefloor all the same.
Back at the head table the Duke Laskaris and Lady Echeveria looked furiously at the retreating backs of everyone worth talking to. The snub, while seen as innocuous by most of the gathered elite, was taken as incredibly offending by the snubbed parties. They would not forget that moment... And, neither would Siyan Severa. Being the only noble left at the top table, he decided he would be the one to talk to the Laskaris family. The three of them shared a cold greeting before all three of them left the ballroom together, looking much more friendly towards each other as they left to the gardens.
Fidelia and Lu Xun took to the floor. Fidelia, having been tutored in all manner of dances since she could walk, picked up the pace of the song with ease. She let herself be guided silently for a while, subtlety matching her steps to Lu Xun's capability so she would not outshine him by an extortionate amount. She was not here to humiliate, but she did need to look at least a little better than him in the eyes of her people. It was a delicate art, courtly dancing, one Fidelia had been mastering her entire life.
"So, if I asked it of you, you would organise a kidnapping then?" She broke the silence when she felt like both were comfortable with the pacing and the steps. She chuckled a little, trying to imagine how being 'kidnapped' would turn out. She came to the conclusion that it would be rather exciting, if not incredibly foolish. "It would have to be dramatic, you know, a story that would be immortalised by playwrights across the galaxy. Otherwise it would be rather dissapointing..." She wondered then, if the stories about Queen Ismini's kidnapping were correct, why no stories of her time with the pirates had ever been written. Even stories twisted to make Vaplana look better would have been normal, even expected from such a huge moment in Vaplanan history, but there was nothing... Had someone tried to cover it all up? Maybe, there was a precedent there. Image is crucial on Vaplana, after all...
Lu Xiang made no attempt to look fancy or approachable as they neared the dance floor, in fact her movements were precise and cold like a stalking predator. She kept her gaze away from the nobles, as if she was above them. Still when Delaith started to move to the music, she loosened up entirely, becoming extremely lithe and flowing like water. It seemed she knew this song, and the guess had been correct, she did very well know how to dance.
"We have always held events like this, but they are always much rougher affairs and usually have some kind of bloodshed. It is a refined event, one that brings me... Joy and sorrow on the part of my mothers stories. But I know we are being watched carefully, more than most here would like us dead." Her voice was kept to a whisper.
Lu Xun had too danced courtly dances his entire life, they were a staple on Vaplana and their mother had started them young. Like Lu Xiang he studied the song and knew it well, taking the Queen through typical opening stages of dances usually found to this song, his movements were graceful and precise. He wasnt trying to show the queen off or impress her just yet, merely to give the other nobles a sense of relief. He knew Vaplanan custom, one did not show off intense moves at the start of a dance.
"Well I could hardly refuse now could I?" Lu Xun smirked at the final breaking of the silence, he wanted her to be comfortable.
"Oh I am sure I could orchestrate something so historic it would be told from the Invilis Corridor to this side of the Killian Verge. It would definately be something to remember" He glanced briefly to the nobles watching "But not for this world. I think you understand that" his comment showed he was more than capable of reading her expressions, he too was thinking of Queen Ismini and the events which transpired.
"Fascinating, a pirate organisation with a royal court and dancing events."
There was no mockery in his voice.
Delaith, seeing as Lu Xiang was in fact quite capable began to pick up the pace on the dance, though seemingly without passion, every step he made was precise and experienced.
"I would assume it is less so a murderous intent and more a fear of a change on the horizon. Not that one excludes the other, I suppose. Many things have occurred in the past months and years, a war is raging, ominous organisations move in the shadows, now pirates wish to claim the throne of their homeland?"
The evening had been entertaining so far, an event far removed from his usual tasks and duties, even if this was only a satellite body.
He paused for a moment, then allowed himself a thin smile.
"A bit like isolated children perhaps."
He let her go into a spin for moment only to catch her again afterwards.
"Though in that they are no different from a lot of the other nobility, those here are comparatively tame, at least so far."
Laylak had seriously debated simply denying the Duke for further insult to him. He glanced over to his charges. Both capable, but both his job to protect. Dispite his core function being infiltration, the twins had grown on him. Especially Lu Xiang. Something about her reminded him of his creators.
He turned back to the duke and took the mans hand. Gently guiding him to the ball, and making a point to take the traditionally male role in the dance with the duke.
Duke Mercia seethed. He had attempted to take the lead in the dance multiple times, but to no avail. Laylak's larger frame was overpowering, and the Duke did not like being overpowered. Their dance was awkward and jarring, much more like a wrestle for dominance than anything graceful.
"So why have you dragged me out here? I presume there is something you wish to discuss away from prying ears, that would be the only reasonable excuse to put on such a farce." He hissed into Laylak's ear. "Look, I am a businessman before all else, even though you have acted the fool I am willing to look past that if you can offer something of value."
"You're right. Even though my people traditionally devour a good story, I do not think that particular series of events would go down well... It has not in the past for certain." Fidelia found dancing with Lu Xun easier than she expected. Before when she had danced with new partners she found it took at least a few rounds for the pair to find their flow and get used to each other's bodies. But with him it came so naturally. But that train of thought was a distraction!
"Your mother is well respected, even now after all her son did to our people. The more I discover about her, not the image the old Government curated but the real her, I feel more and more sorrow. This institution stole her away from the life she clearly desired, the people she cherished... And forced a new life upon her. Queen Ismini is portrayed as strong and steadfast, fearless, but most importantly a proud Vaplanan. While some of that may be true, I do not think this country held her heart as is claimed." She looked up at Lu Xun, taking in his expression before continuing, as if she was unable to stop herself.
"This re-writing of history, of people, is not something new here. It happens all of the time, to all of us. Even my family was torn apart by it..." The Queen stopped then, turning her gaze back to over Lu Xun's shoulder. She could not bear to look another person in the eye in that moment, ashamed that she had not only been unable to stop herself in time but also for letting slip about the number one taboo topic of her court. The composure she was renowned for had slipped for the briefest of moments, but even that second was enough for a crack to form.
Despite there being no mockery, Lu Xiang shot Delaith a glare.
"Change leads to power, power corrupts those with weak wills. It is the job of those who are strong willed do what is necessary to protect the greater whole. Facets which jeapordise that need to be removed, as do those who seek power for personal gain. That is why there is bloodshed at our events" She went along with his dance.
"We are isolated children, and this is our homeland. It is our right, and it is only fair we who are strong willed protect it from those who are not" She looked at the nobles around them "Make no mistake. We openly display our brutality, I bet those here are far more murderous behind closed doors than we ever would be. Secrecy breeds malice like no other"
"My... Half brother. Was a spoilt weak willed fool. She never wanted him, you can tell that from the briefest of expressions on her face in video and picture. She loved him, she was a loving woman. But you are right not to believe the image they made of her. She never wanted to come back here without my father, without us. This institution threatened retribution. It still had a military back then, it was very much intending to use it" He looked much more stern now but in a way that came off to others looking on them as if they were having a serious conversation, to be expected all things considering.
Lu Xun seemed to respond to her comment, he had no idea that she herself had been subject to the very same thing he had. Vaplanan history was very careful to curate the perfect image, but that admission told him more than anything could have. It told him he really knew nothing about Fidelia, and it shocked him how much that suddenly didnt surprise him, how did he not see it before? If they had paved over the image of his other, why would they not do so to her?
"I am sorry. Revisionism is terrible, something we ourselves never do. Stories have power, truth and history have power. Perhaps it is time Vaplana really learnt that" She could tell he had fire and anger in those words. Did her own plight affect him that much?
"Interesting. I was more referring to the Vaplanans as the isolated children, but one could justifiedly interpret it your way as well."
Delaith noted between steps.
"It is correct many abuse secrecy to further their own gains, words spoken behind closed curtains often lead to betrayal and treachery. No question it is the case on this planet as well, no matter how clean and rosy it may look on the surface.
However, I would say, as many things, secrecy is a tool. It can be useful, so long as it is used with caution and the right goals instead of spreading lies."
He paused, his eyes wandering to the ceiling in thought, without stopping or even slowing the dance or making any mistake. Then returning, looking Lu Xiang in the Eyes.
"Though I suppose that is the same one who abuses secrecy would say as well, would they not? It makes me curious, which side would you take me for? If there is any difference to you in that regard. I suppose based on your actions and opinions so far your thoughts should be quite open, should they not?"
Laylak was tempted to laugh, and just continue dancing. In fact he actually wanted to, but his core directives disallowed it. This was an opportunity he was forced to take.
"Why of course Baron. I offer resources, information, anything you desire. So long as you aid my employeers in getting an in. And they are not the EOTL." He chuckled, keeping his voice low. Reading off a frequency, a well outdated one too. He had been in cover for so long it was not like he was getting updates. "VLKIAN09846"
...Baron? Baron?! Duke Mercia looked as if he were to explode, his face contorted in an expression of pure rage. He was about to give up on the attempted façade of 'pleasantries', give this jokester a piece of his mind, but Laylak's last words quickly changed all of that. For a brief moment, there was silence. Duke Mercia had just become privy to the hottest new secret, and as much as he hated Laylak he was not one to pass an opportunity so fruitful.
"Well, that changes everything." His posture immediately relaxed, now happy to let Laylak push him around the dancefloor. "I would be careful whom you spill such secrets to, not everybody will be as willing to keep quiet as I. Tell me, double agent, what do your employers stand for? After all, I am only willing to work with those who share my values."
Fidelia was a little shocked, to put it honestly. She hadn't at all meant to open up as much as she had, she thought letting anyone have a glimpse of such matters would lead to nothing but disaster, but it seemed that was not at all the case. They were still dancing and having, all things considered, a good time. Lu Xun's emotional reaction was also a pleasant surprise, and a very good sign for a future relationship of some kind. He was, in her opinion, a kind and empathetic man under his hard exterior. A respectable trait, admirable even.
"Revisionism is, unfortunately, the backbone of this society. For what else do we have, if not the perfect image to show the rest of the galaxy? How else would we draw people here to our little slice of paradise? It is a sorry state of affairs, one I wish I could change indeed, but i fear this is far too engrained into my people's psyche to alter without consequence.
You are lucky, Lu Xun. You have your sister by your side to rule with, you share your strength with her and she with you. You're a team, and together I am sure you can conquer any challenge. I am not so lucky. Ruling alone is a burden. I fulfil my duty, and I would have my life no other way don't get me wrong, but I wish I could have the unconditional love and support I had when I had family."
Lu Xiang was put off by Delaiths interpretation.
But she had no hesitation of answering his question truthfully.
"A mercenary who conviently ends up in the middle of all this, chooses to stay with us and now dances with one of the heads of End of the Line at the Vaplanans royal event with access to some of the most powerful individuals from two nations? I take you for someone with a very broad mission working for someone with large sweeping goals. I don't believe who you say you are and I think that makes it clear my views of the matter" Her stern words did not affect their flow in the dance.
"Your majesty, you are the queen of this supposed paradise, the strong core to that backbone. If anyone can enact change it is you, I may be lucky to have my sister, she can be troublesome at times but I also find it far easier when my subordinates try to stab me in the front" He smiled.
"If ruling alone is such a burden, why not make a new family? Build a foundation you can trust, if you are to pardon my language, fuck the political games. Choose people who you trust implicitly and build from there. I may have to deal with coups and rogue elements, but my underlings respect and trust me. If your immediate powerbase cannot do that, then it is no powerbase, it is a prison with you placed atop a pedestal and should it waver you will fall. Sometimes, you must knock it down yourself and rebuild it"
"Interesting.", was the only thing Delaith noted in response for a while, which was no real answer, as expected.
She was correct, in a way, certainly impressive, even without him making too much of an effort to hide his nature, perhaps she really could be more useful than he'd anticipated.
"Your reputation is that of a dreaded and cunning pirate queen, though personally speaking I would say one of your most notable qualities is the intelligence which dwells beneath this surface." It was a compliment, in a way, unexpectedly, it also answered her suspicion without outright telling her, though it was uncertain if this was patronising or not. However, what followed would overshadow that reveal quite easily. He needed her trust, perhaps not all but at least some of it, he was well aware this could backfire, but given her attitude so far, she did not seem someone to sell others out if they hadn't done her any wrong, quite the opposite in fact, but trust was only built with trust.
"What if I were to tell you the organisation I work for? The name would tell you nothing and there is a good chance you never even heard of them.
We hunt shadows others perceive only from the corner of their eyes, until they eventually devour the galaxy. I'm sure with your experience you are aware there are many things out there, which cannot be negotiated with and can be outrun for only so long. We are... A shield, if you will, that is all I can tell you, for now."
He fell silent continuing the dance without interruption or error.
What he said was strange and probably would've marked anyone else a madman or an idiot, though searching in his eyes, she saw no mockery, no jest, he was in fact dead serious. This man who had clad himself in lies and deception just offered her a drop of the truth, against all her expectations, which was perhaps the strangest thing that happened on this already strange evening.
Laylak kept the dance going but his tone became less jovial, and far more hushed and serious. "Profit above all else, but most importantly stability. Everything rests on it, no? It is something to discuss with them, I am not allowed to say more, but... Well let me say Kings have been put on the throne by us more than once. Accept, or decline... I'd say give it a fair shake. I don't regret it myself, made me one wealthy AI. Pardon the act Duke, it is necessary."
Laylaks words were laced with half truths and falsities, but lucky for him he had no expressions to give away the lies. His attention was still occasionally darting between the twins. Despite his true purpose here, the AI was still protective of them. He even had grown to both quite enjoy their company, and them as people. Especially Lu Xiang, and her general 'firbebrandness'
Duke Mercia was no stanger to this kind of offer. He had been playing this game for decades, and ensnared many ambitious people himself with such a speech. But, he still saw this as an opportunity. He knew there would be some falsities in there, but the allure of finding out exactly which statements were true and which were lies was too strong to resist.
"Well, I am certainly interested in meeting with your employers to discuss this proposition further. While I am not interested in thrones, I am sure that I could offer you and yours something useful for your assistance in reaching my goals. Not that I need you, of course, but more allies are never a bad thing."
Fidelia chuckled. Lu Xun was wiser than she had given him credit for. She could not have described her place in Vaplanan society better herself. Prison... It may sound dramatic, but it had a ring of truth to it. But, thinking more about it, he gave stellar advice. Fidelia made a mental note, this was something that she could certainly work on going forward. She would not be so passive with her staff and advisors anymore, anyone she thought had allegiances elsewhere would slowly be phased out. It would be a big shake up, and require much hard work, but for the improvement of her situation and for the betterment of Vaplana no price was too high.
"You give good advice, even if it is not in your own best interest to do so. Why is that, if I may ask?" Fidelia looked up at Lu Xun, hoping that she could try and read his intentions or emotions from his expression.
"I wouldn't be alive if I didn't have an intelligence labyrinthine enough to outwit all those under me" she took the complement bluntly.
Lu Xiang listened to the man, he could be lying of course. But she knew lying, this wasn't such.
"An invisible organisation that tries to keep the galaxy safe, how noble. Not all of us have such a luxury some of us need to focus on survival. Do you work for the Union of Worlds or something? Seems very up their alley though if you could tell them they have been seriously slacking this past decade that would be handy" She gave a ghost of a smile.
"The real question is you would not have let that slip unless you deliberately knew I would react positively, and that would only be the case if you were interested in me, my brother and more importantly End of the Line. Likely our knowledge, probably about the Expanse given what lurks in there"
Lu Xun made a melodramatic look of self importance and sly pirate king, making him look cartoonish.
"Because your majesty I cant rule such a vast kingdom here on such weak foundations can I?" His voice was exaggerated and deliberately silly "Because I dont want to see the nation that my mother ruled tear itself apart, and because you have a good heart. That in itself, is rare in this galaxy"
As expected.
This time it was Delaiths turn to melodramatically roll his eyes.
"Ah, yes, it always has to be about business, has it not?"
She was right if not fully. He was here on this evening to observe and gather info but not solely, he was also here to gather experiences, something he only rarely found the time for in these days, even if it was only a shard of him.
"Though admittedly, in a way it is and to a degree, you are right, the expanse is a fascinating but deadly place, one hard to navigate even for the most advanced and experienced of nations. As you can likely surmise, our interest in there are less of monetary nature and more about other aspects. I am sure there are many ways in which your and my organisation could benefit of each other and be it only by not standing in each others way. Though that would likely be something to discuss on a less special evening, I would say.
On the other hand I would also like to say that I would like to keep work and entertainment separate, though we both know that is hardly possible."
He shook his head in disappointment, though this time obviously played.
Ironically the Union of worlds was indeed a faction they usually would've contacted early on, though due to how much turmoil it was in for now they stood a safe distance so to say.
An amused smile entered his face as he rose his head again.
"I will make sure to let the Union know the esteemed Pirate Queen Lu Xiang found them lacking, should our paths ever cross with their oh so grand emperor."
Laylak did a flourish to finish the dance off. "The frequency. If you are interested, that is the way, yea?" He took a step back afterwards. Moving towards the edge of the dance floor, and standing fairly close to Lu Xiang. He wasn't concerned about the Queen doing anything, but the strange man concerned him.
He also was confident the woman could take care of herself. But his presnse might be enough on its own.
Duke Mercia knew what came next, but that was for another day. For now he gave Laylak a polite bow and retreated to the edge of the dance floor. He was about to return to his table, to lay low for the rest of the festivities. But, upon seeing the other couples locked together on the floor he decided to have one last meaningful conversation. Maybe it was his arrogance talking, or his boosted confidence from his new prospects, but he set off towards the centre of the dancefloor, his eyes set firmly upon his target.
Queen Fidelia chuckled. "You speak of taking my throne, yet compliment me in the very same breath. I think you need to make your mind up on what exactly it is that you want, Lu Xun, because I guarantee you shall not be getting both." She spoke playfully, trying to tease a straightforward answer from him. Not that she thought she would get one, at least not for now. But she could try. "Actually, I know what you want. You-" Fidelia was cut short by a firm tap on her shoulder. She glanced over, expecting to see Thalia or one of her guard. They were the only people authorised to interrupt her during a dance, especially one this important. But her face immediately soured when she was Duke Mercia stood next to her.
"Zaros. I presume you have a good reason to interrupt me on this fine evening." Fidelia's chirpy and upbeat attitude was immediately gone, replaced by an emotionless mask.
"I wanted to thank you for hosting such an interesting party, Your Majesty." The Duke's tone was dripping with false politeness, a sly grin creeping onto his face. His voice could be heard across the ballroom, he was almost shouting. "Your mother would be so proud, child. If only she could be here to join us..." He spoke to Fidelia, but he was staring at Lu Xun. Waiting for his reaction to what was about to happen, but also silently judging the pirate king on his posture, dress, mannerisms, all in a single moment. You could feel the contempt in the air.
Fidelia immediately tensed up and let go of her dance partner, bringing their pleasant dance to an abrupt end. The atmosphere in the entire ballroom shifted, the couples within clear earshot all stopped their dances and turned to stare at the trio. You could hear a pin drop in such suffocating silence.
"Everything is about business. Down to the very thoughts we have." Lu Xiangs comment made he slightly frown as if she was upset with that truth.
"Then we shall discuss it another time. I never turn down business, as for the Union tell their Emperor he could at least keep them on a tighter leash" She smiled. However her gaze drifted to the commotion as she and Delaith stopped dancing. She very quickly ceased touching the Network Android her body going from someone who at least looked slightly relaxed to someone ready for a total bloodbath. Likely something she had experienced often.
The clear and blatant attempt to disrupt coupled with the barely constrained venom in the Dukes mouth made Lu Xun do something unexpected.
As the entire room became silent and anger welled up in Fidelia with the sudden comment about her mother Lu Xun laughed. Loudly, and deeply.
Even his sister raised an eyebrow, this was not what was typical in such moments. Lu Xun compiled himself for a moment before speaking, loudly but deliberately so.
"With all due respect Duke Mercia, I have seen less brash attempts to break up potential diplomatic talks involving firearms and kidnapping." The statement was outright, it was true in Vaplana social etiquette and the right comment were the difference between social life and death. But Lu Xun knew that game well, only with real life and death. He wasn't going to play it here, he wasn't going to let someone quite clearly disrespect both himself and the Queen.
"But if its a forward point you wish to make..." Lu Xun extended his hand with a slight bow. The same exact Vaplanan Etiqette expected when offering someone a dance. He ever so slightly glanced at Fidelia and winked.
His entire sudden plan was to dance with Mercia, throw off his entire political assault and let Fidelia avoid the direct repocussions or potential fallout by taking it on himself. If the Duke refused his dance it would be seen as a bad show, if he accepted the two could get things out of the way silently and quickly, without the queen needing to take the flak.
Delaith moved in after Lu Xiang, standing behind her at a respectful distance, though close enough to intervene if necessary, preferably without putting the pirate queen on display. He could sense the tension in the air. He had been waiting for something like this to happen and here it was, the question was how far it would go.
Nobles from across Vaplana had been gathered here and doubtlessly this incident would spread without delay to the planets farthest reaches, even if only in whispered words. Though there was more to this situation than just the confrontation between Duke Mercia and Lu Xun. An occassion and situation like this would be ideal for anyone who needed a distraction for other purposes and so he began searching the crowd, the windows, the ceiling even, (with as much subtlety as he could afford) for anything and anyone that might look suspicious and could take advantage of the moment. That could not only be a danger for the Queen, the Twins or anyone else present, though could also be convenient for someone who would like to frame Duke Mercia.
The other part of his attention he kept on Lu Xiang, he was quite certain she was able to handle herself, though that very same fact sprouted the question whether she was able to restrain herself, given how close the siblings bond was. A diplomatic incident could prove fatal, whether she'd like to admit it or not.
Laylak remained silent, he was no master of diplomacy after all. He casually walked closer to the edge of the dance floor. Scanning the crowd and preparing to fight if he needed to. He had confidence in his men to likely do the same. He folded his hands in front him, placing himself as equal of a distance between the two siblings as he could.
If things did go poorly, he'd be prepared.
Everyone in the ballroom, nobles and staff alike watched on with growing unease. Lu Xun had made the perfect response, but how would the Duke react? He was looking down at Lu Xun, who was bowed before him with an extended arm. You could almost see the glee in his eyes, he knew every second of silence was an extra moment where he held the full attention of those in attendance, all of the power. All of the control. He dragged his 'contemplation' out for as long as he could without making himself look slow-witted.
"Now, whoever said I was disrupting anything? I thought you two may appreciate having something in common is all." Duke Mercia shrugged, brushing off the seriousness of the situation with a flippant smirk. "Greater alliances have certainly been built on less. I wish the best for this attempt at making friends, honestly I do." There was a ring of truth in the Duke's words, but Queen Fidelia knew he was not being completely sincere. She knew him well enough that he saw the strengthening of her position as Queen as a threat to his own authority, and this new alliance would create more obstacles for him.
"But, regardless, I think I have had enough dancing for tonight. I am not getting any younger, after all. And, if I were to dance with a pirate, I think I would much rather dance with your lovely sister. You are, how do I put this... Not my type. She, though..." The Duke glanced over towards Lu Xiang, but before he could stare her down too hard Queen Fidelia clapped her hands together.
"I agree. I think we have all had our fill of revelry for one evening. I thank you all for your attendance." That was the signal for people to, essentially, get the hell out of her ballroom. The uptake was slow at first, the nobles wanting to watch the potential fight that was about to happen. But once the guards opened the doors and staff started to subtly corral people out of the room the crowd soon dissipated. The only people left were the Queen, her honoured guests, and Duke Mercia. Even his wife had seen the sense to retreat to their carriage, she hadn't dared meet eyes with anyone as she quickly scurried away.
Lu Xiang didn't interfere, much to Delaiths relief.
She too knew this game well, and aid unlooked for was just as poor show as was disrupting ongoing affairs. She remained where she was, silent and unmoving but there was a tension in her body, like she was ready to spring into action with just a seconds notice. Likely Lu Xiang was used to much more violent attempts at breaking up diplomacy.
"A shame, and I made myself as pretty as possible for the effort. But I am sure a married man such as yourself has quite specific tastes" Lu Xun quipped at the rejection with a smile. Straightening himself back up.
Lu Xiangs face was surprisingly blank in response to the Dukes comment, being a pirate queen had seen her face a lifetime of abuse, being targeted and sexist remarks all by men thinking she was the weak link in the system. Each time she had ignored their attempts, or simply killed them for it, sadly in this case the latter would be frowned upon.
Lu Xun paid close attention to the dukes wife as she scurried away, watching over the nobles and getting a feeling of their moods for all this.
"Yes I do think that is quite enough revelery for one night" Lu Xiang finally spoke, looking at the duke but turning to Delaith her expression a complex one of both appreciation but also disgust, at least the disgust likely was purely directed at the Duke.
Laylaks mechanical face showed no emotion. Sure he had dressed himself in a suit, and top hat to look friendlier but he was bodyguard, and trusted fighter because he was a robot made for war. He liked to joke, poke fun, but the twins knew his capabilities. And when he wasn't engaging in banter, and utterly silent he was taking it seriously.
He didn't walk carefully, and with swagger like he had been. He casually stomped without effort to soften the sound of his eight against the floor. Entering what was the dancing ball instead of lingering at the side. He didn't say anything, but positioned himself in what he thought would be the best position if a fight broke out. Looking to Lu Xiang for any subtle hints of what she wanted to do. He had always respect her more than her brother, and was going with whatever she wanted to do.
His glowing purple eyes flashed a dim red for a moment as he swapped to a thermal based vision mode. Scanning for any cheeky aasassins that might try to take the opportunity after a moment swapping back casually.
Duke Mercia carefully surveyed the people gathered around him. He was greatly outnumbered, but he did not look at all shaken by the prospect.
"I suppose the party is indeed over, and such a shame... Before I depart, I wanted to make a quick announcement. Is that permitted, your Highness?" The Duke looked to Fidelia, almost daring her to say no. As much as The Queen wanted to have him dragged away, she knew she couldn't.
"Make it quick then, before you outlast your welcome."
"How gracious of you. Well, what with everything going on in the galaxy and with no prospect of protection from my Government I have taken the liberty of ensuring my assets galaxy wide are protected from harm. I fully expect an investigation as this goes against your precious morality, but rest assured you will find I have taken every measure to remain within the confines of the law of this land. With pirates now among us, I believe that these measures I have been forced to take are more essential now than I originally believed. After all, what with their reputation I do worry you have left our home vulnerable. But, do not call me unpatriotic, I will even use my new security assets to protect Vaplana, even if you do despise me for it, your Majesty. After all, I am nothing without Vaplana, as Vaplana is without me." The Duke finished his little speech and took a short bow, not even hesitating before turning his back on the Queen and heading towards the doors.
Queen Fidelia was not at all surprised by this announcement. She had known for a while that the Duke had been building forces beyond Vaplanan space. As long as he kept them there, she legally had no way to reprimand him. For now, at least. Her lawmakers had been brewing something for her to retaliate with, she just needed to make sure they had enough time to pass the motion before the Duke got too many dangerous ideas. Although she was not surprised, did not mean she was not furious with him for announcing it in front of her guests. She did not appreciate being made to look weak. Just as the Duke was leaving she decided to get the last word in, one last jab.
"You are right, I do wish my mother could be here to see this moment. As I also wish it were possible for your daughter to be here. From what I remember of her she was a sweet girl with a big heart, just like your son before her. My condolences as always, Your Grace."
The Duke was next to Lu Xiang and Delaith when Fidelia said that. He paused for a moment, his hand twitching at his belt. A cloud of rage seemed to wash over him before he quickly remembered where he was. He made brief eye contact with Delaith and Laylak in turn, and once he had taken a moment to calm himself he nodded shotly. It seemed, even if they were currently siding with the pirates, their business was more than welcome at his door. After the brief pause he did not look back at the Queen and just left the ballroom at an even brisker pace, shoving a maid out of his way as he went.
Silence once again suffocated the room. The party had, indeed, come crashing to a halt.