Chapter 110: The Mechanic and the Scratched

Chapter 110: The Mechanic and the Scratched

Daniel carries his luggage to the shuttle that he’s preparing for the trip to Mattarglos. He has permission from the Fievegal inner circle to leave his house arrest, though he’ll obviously be escorted by most of his new friends, including Neith, his primary male friend on Zenkon.

The shuttles aren’t the most comfortable form of travel, but they’re fast and effective, requiring little space to take off and land, and able to close a great distance faster than riding on a dragon.

Thymeria, Illianna, Shek, Skloe, and the children will be remaining at the Citadel, while the four Empresses, Gwenesphia, Treia, Kera’tai, Aoloan, Doephluev, and Vaergraes will be accompanying Daniel to witness his duel and establish friendly relations with Mattarglos, if possible.

Just as Daniel is turning to pick up the next crate, he halts.

Grand Duchess Aramellianna is entering the hangar with her usual guards, though her daughters appear to be elsewhere. She walks with a grace that Daniel could never hope to complement, let alone match. She carries her head high, no matter where she is going or what she is doing.

She approaches Daniel without any hint of having other business, and he hesitates, straightening to receive her. “Grand Duchess.”

“Your Grace.” The guards with her bow respectfully to Daniel... in spite of his many protests.

Daniel simply sighs quietly. “Anything I can help you with, Mother?”

“In fact you can, dear Daniel.” She passes him, inspecting the shuttle for a moment. “You are heading to the territory of Mattarglos, are you not?”

“I am. Myself and a handful of others.”

“I see.” She peeks in the back of the shuttle, where the seats are much like the coach seats of an airline. “It seems quite crowded in these shuttles of yours.”

“It serves the purpose,” replies Daniel respectfully, watching as she studies the seating.

“This won’t do at all. We’ll take my airship. It is much more spacious.”

“‘We’, Mother?”

She smiles at him and nods. “Of course. Did you think I would miss out on an important diplomatic trip to Mattarglos?” She muses, “I hear the confections of Mattarglos are uniquely flavored, thanks to the honey produced by a species of insect found only in Mattarglos. I’m looking forward to trying it.”

“If that’s the case, Mother, we should try brewing with this honey. A whiskey I liked on Earth used honey as a flavoring, and it was quite good.”

She smirks. She’s not a heavy alcohol drinker since he introduced her, but she does have the occasional wine with dinner, and she has tried Daniel’s rum. “Interesting... Then, we have a mutual reason for going.”

“Actually, Mother, I have a reason for going. Yours... doesn’t seem like a good idea.”

Her expression dims to that of slight disgust, as if he insulted her by countering her. “Hmm? And, you would go to this place with your entire harem, which includes my eldest daughter?”

Daniel twitches, stammering a little. “I... well... you see...”

“I know you wield a great deal of influence because you make decisions swiftly and with confidence. Admirable, of course. My late husband was the same way. But...” She grins at him wickedly. “The real power lies in those you wish to make happy. Those whose opinions you will always consider, unless your own decision is resolute. I expect you will have a great deal of trouble refusing me, my dear, sweet son.”

Daniel sighs. She’s not wrong. While he could put his foot down on the matter, Wenlianna is not the only one who will likely argue for Aramellianna’s presence on the trip, especially once she makes the extremely logical and simple argument that she has much more diplomatic experience than anyone in the Fievegal. Leaving her behind would almost be foolish more than wise.

Daniel asks without trying to sound suspicious, since he’s just curious, “Mother, I am fine with you going, though I can’t guarantee your safety as much as if you stay here...”

“I am well aware, my dear son.” She pets his cheek gently, which Daniel notices seems to be abnormal, from what he has seen. Aramellianna isn’t usually physically affectionate, though it’s meaningful when she is. He suspects she’s trying to make up for lost time with him, as much as to ensure he has more and more loyalty to both the world of Zenkon, as well as the Stalvaltan family.

He adds, “May I ask why you wish to go? What you hope to gain? Word of your affiliation with us might...”

“You’re intending to either win over Mattarglos as allies or at least earn their neutrality. And, I am most confident that Rikuto already has some idea what’s going on, since I’ve been ignoring him for months now, except to sell him enhanced magic crystals. The stock of which will run out soon, since my territory has been captured.” She smiles deviously at Daniel. She’s awfully cavalier with the fact that she’s now a traitor, never hesitating to tease Daniel that her entire legacy and family are in his hands now.

No pressure.

The Grand Duchess adds seriously, “I think you know me well enough now, Daniel. What you might not know is that, while Mattarglos is an ally to the Empire, they are insular as a nation. I hope to expand the Grand Duchy’s influence into the territories of Mattarglos, and increase the wealth of the Stalvaltan family.” She looks out the hangar bay doors at the horizon, hazily obscured by the humidity in the sky. “I suspect I’ve never talked to you about my family. I don’t talk about them much to my own daughters. No reason other than I just typically keep my own self reserved.” She is quiet for a moment, and Daniel waits patiently. “I am obviously a member of the Stalvaltan family now. They are my life, and even if Stalvaltan blood doesn’t run through my veins, I have dedicated my life to protecting the legacy of my beloved husband.” She smiles tenderly, looking rather unguarded compared to her normal self. “I was born a countess’s daughter, of the County of Phenglegorn. My grandfather was a skillful businessman, and he built our wealth and taught me many things. My parents... squandered that wealth and ruined the county shortly after I was married.” She scoffs. “Maybe treachery runs in my blood...” She looks at Daniel. “I learned what I know from my grandfather. My parents destroyed it because they became greedy and foolish. They tried shorting taxes to the kingdom for years, and it finally caught up to them. I was spared ruination due to my marriage. And, I vowed to myself two things; I would never betray the Stalvaltan Grand Duchy, and I would seek out every opportunity I can to increase the Stalvaltan wealth or influence. That includes making contact with the untapped territories of Mattarglos. Especially if my newest and greatest ally to date finds worth in doing so.”

“You have to know if you already knew about the plan...”

“That the mission is largely personal for Lady Gwenesphia and Miss Treia? I am aware, you are correct. If I leave empty-handed, then it is no great loss. But, if I can find business opportunities that few others have been able to make use of, we stand to gain.”

Daniel nods. “I understand. Thank you for sharing, Mother.”

She smiles and cups his cheek once more. “You know I seek to use you, but you should also know that I deeply trust you, Daniel. I was not blessed with sons of my own, no matter how long my husband and I tried. I am thankful that you have allowed me this.”

“Your daughters are all wonderful, Mother.”

She immediately teases deviously, “Now now, Daniel. Indeed, only two of my daughters other than Wenlianna are claimed, but you can’t seriously expect me to give you my youngest two as well, can you?” She feigns deep thought as Daniel simply rolls his eyes. “Though... Three daughters married to the Emperor increases the chances of an heir of Stalvaltan blood...”

“I’m afraid I have my hands full, Mother. And, I’m happy for it. I won’t try to impose Earth customs on anyone here, but I would be happy to debate the differences with someone like you.”

She smiles. “I am certain I would like that.” She then turns more normally serious, asking, “Now then, when are we departing for Mattarglos? I shall have my staff begin preparing the airship at once.”

Daniel looks at the shuttle. He replies, a little dejected at his wasted effort, “I was planning to leave tomorrow afternoon. The shuttle can make it to Mattarglos in about two hours.”

This impresses Aramellianna, and she smiles. “I see. Your shuttles truly are quite interesting. I suppose speed is the trade off for comfort, yes?”

“Yes. And, efficiency. The magic crystals seem to hold charge long enough to make at least twenty trips of a similar distance, where I hear from Wenlianna the airship will need to haul crystals to be swapped out in flight.”

“Indeed, it is true. It is no small matter, but it pays to have a mansion in the sky.” She smiles, adding, “Very well, we will leave tomorrow morning. I believe the airship should still be able to arrive by the afternoon. Will this work for you?”

“Sure. Especially if I get to relax during the trip.”

“Indeed. And, why don’t you bring one of your shuttles as well. One that can fit all of us. We can depart the airship while the crew takes the time to land. This way, both speed and comfort are available to us upon arrival.”

“Sounds good. I’ll let Xyreko know.”

Just as she’s about to depart, Daniel asks, “Mother, may I ask you one more thing?”

She turns and smiles. “Of course. Anything I can, I shall answer.”

“Please take no offense, since I’ve only been curious, and I suspect I know the answer. I have no doubts in your love for the Grand Duke, may he rest in peace...” Daniel hesitates a little, beginning to doubt if he should finish his question.

“You’re wondering if I ever considered remarriage for political reasons, or if I ever had a second love?”

Daniel nods. “Either. And, please forgive me if it is none of my business.”

“Perhaps it is...” teases Aramellianna playfully. “Perhaps it has crossed your mind to court me as well, hmm?”

Before Daniel can answer, she waves her hand, giggling. “I know. I’m teasing you.” She answers sincerely, “I have had many offers, obviously. Many suitors are always trying to curry favor. They even tried to marry me to the Grand Prince of the Empire, saying things about duty and responsibility. But, two things would happen in any of those cases. The Stalvaltan name would no longer belong to the Stalvaltan family, and a male heir could all but surely seize the name and assets. Especially if my daughters all marry out of the family.”

“Couldn’t you adopt the sons that marry your daughters to keep them as the heirs?”

“In a way, yes. But, in practice, this still means that my husband’s legacy goes to someone who is likely more interested in their own legacy than that of the Stalvaltan family.” She smiles softly. “Of course, it would be easy to say that I could have done the same thing, but my family is no longer a threat, and I have been baptized in the love and strength of the Grand Duchy of Stalvaltan. I would die to protect the Stalvaltan legacy... as well as the legacy of my Yaandrestar.” She is clutching her chest, and tears start to glisten at the corners of the iron-willed matriarch’s eyes.

Daniel reacts without thinking, and he embraces her in a hug. And, this time, it is the Grand Duchess of Stalvaltan who finally has herself a good cry.

After she has settled down, she sniffles, and Daniel provides her with a cloth to wipe her tears and nose with. “I would appreciate it *sniff* if you and I could keep this conversation to ourselves. You know how it is.” She sniffles again.

Mukori- Emperor Daniel is still awaiting a formal reply regarding the earlier matter discussed, though I personally will not blame you if you feel intimidated into refusing.

Regardless, that is not the matter to be discussed now. In regards to Fort Twilight, it appears an incredibly dangerous magic weapon has been developed in the east, and this destruction was meant to showcase its power. I urge you to take caution when dealing with the owner of this weapon.

I send my best regards, Empress Sundenelle.

Sincerely yours,

Empress Ryuogriar gur Lawson,

Second Empress of the Citadel,

FIrst Dragon Empress

Proud Mother to the first of many dragon offspring to come.

P.S.- I included the part about me being a mother because I wish to boast. Mukori will not mind.

Fare thee well,

Until our next correspondence.]”

The message is admittedly simple and straightforward, but Sundenelle reads over it a couple of times to be sure she doesn’t miss anything. One thing has caught her eye and has her thoughts churning. She hands the letter over to Byleathea, requesting, “Lady Byleathea, please read this and give me your thoughts.”

“Of course, my Illustrious Empress.” Byleathea sets her tea down and receives the letter, reading over it with a stoic expression as well

Meanwhile, Sundenelle thinks out loud. “One word stood out to me more than the others; ‘Mukori’. This ‘Ryuogriar’ scratched it out the first time, but did not do so the second. Could it be some sort of code for someone? Perhaps a secret name belonging to Daniel?”

“I... can confirm that it is a name or title that was used about Daniel, your Imperial Majesty. The ones calling themselves ‘Dragon Empresses’ and carrying eggs around used the name often while I was delivering the message and awaiting a response, and it always seemed to exclusively refer to Daniel, though I can’t say for certain.”

Sundenelle nods as she absorbs the information. If I didn’t miss anything through that narrow illusion spell during the audience, there were three such women carrying eggs, implying three Dragon Empresses, if I have to take a guess. What could that term mean?

“Who else received you? What sort of staff did he have? And, why was the reply not written by Daniel?”

“There were five women present, your Grace. No Daniel. But, Hekate was present and spoke a lot, though very little of the information seems useful.”

Yes, the little black-haired fox girl. She seems to have a talkative personality, but she doesn’t seem to be a complete fool. “Who else?”

“A fourth woman I presumed to be a dragon, but I took her more as a lady in waiting, rather than an Empress like the three that were at the audience. Her color was a rose-pink for starters, including pink hair, metallic pink horns, and a deep pink reptilian tail like the other three. If we’re assuming the three reptilian women are in fact dragons in disguise, I am confident this woman was as well. The name they gave was ‘Roeta, Einherjar of the Fievegal’. Your illustrious Grace.”

“Ayn... hair... yar?” repeats Sundenelle thoughtfully, not knowing the word.

“That is how she was introduced, your illustrious Majesty.”

“It must be something from Daniel’s world... The meaning could be anything, though.” She sighs. “No use speculating on Daniel’s language or choice of titles. Anything else you can tell me about the dragons?”

“They... were surprisingly polite, your Grace. Prideful, but not disrespectful.”

“I see...” She looks to Byleathea, who has finished reading the letter herself.

“From what we briefly witnessed at the audience, and this letter, I sense the same, your Grace.” Byleathea hands the letter back after giving her thoughts. “More concerning, from my perspective; it seems that Daniel and his... ahem... ladies already know who the culprit is with certainty, yet they did not explicitly name them.”

“My best guess is that it’s King Rikuto of Mornistae. He’s the only other otherworlder in our world at present, at least that we know of. And, this unprecedented power could only be the work of either Daniel or Rikuto.”

“As we discussed before, your Grace, we can not rule out other forces for certain. It was only last time that we speculated Daniel could have done it as a bad-faith self-attack.”

“Even if he wished to simply make the mountains virtually impassable to us, which is ironically one of the smartest decisions he could make, I believe he would have communicated that, rather than faking an assassination attempt.”

“But, how would Mornistae have learned of Daniel’s presence at Fort Twilight? It happened so shortly after, he would have had to have received word almost the the day after.”

Sundenelle sighs. “Don’t put it past intelligence networks.” She thinks as she looks at the two halves of parchment with the message on it. One of the dragons replied to the message, rather than Daniel. It’s just what Daniel would say as well, though, so it seems the dragons have the same interests as Daniel, but for some reason he was indisposed enough not to meet with the messenger.

“Alright. Let’s see if we can fish for more information.” She drafts a letter, offering to assist in the investigation, and sends it out with the messenger. She did her best to include subtle questions inquiring about Daniel, who the attacker might be, and if they intend to rebuild Fort Twilight, she will endeavor to get her own workers in on the project to acquire the methods and technology of an otherworlder.

Just as she's ready to leave for her next order of business, a different messenger comes in. This messenger has bandages on his head, and his left arm is in a sling. His clothing is slit in several places. He coughs, wearily making his report. “Your Majesty... Forgive my unsightly appearance. I have only narrowly returned...”

“Your mission?” asks the guard at the entrance.

“I am one of the messengers sent to the Citadel to make contact with the otherworlder Daniel. We... were attacked.”

“Attacked?” asks Byleathea, concern in her voice. “But, we just received...”

“Tell me more,” replies Sundenelle, cutting off her mother. Byleathea glances at her, shocked by the Empress’s apparent disinterest in the fact that another messenger was just present.

But, of course, Sundenelle is thinking the opposite.

“A group of us approached the Citadel, and no sooner did we meet with Daniel did he send his dragons upon us, your Grace. I narrowly escaped, and I rushed back here.”

“I see. You did well to make it this far.”

“Thank you, your Majesty.”

“If I may, your Imperial Majesty,” starts Byleathea.

Sundenelle looks directly into her mother’s eyes, giving her a serious gaze that causes Byleathea to flinch lightly. “This brave messenger is weary from his harrowing journey, Mother. I believe it will be better to get more details later when he has had time to straighten his thoughts and recover.” She looks at the messenger. “What is your name, brave messenger?”

“Gintor, your Grace.”

“Gintor, go and rest, and make a more detailed report first thing tomorrow. You shall be rewarded.”

“Thank you, your Imperial Majesty! You honor me!” The messenger bows and makes his way out crisply. The room is silent, shocked by Sundenelle’s response. No sooner is he out of earshot does the Empress say quietly, “Have that man followed and begin spreading rumors among the servants that we are going to begin calling in the army to march on the Citadel.”

“Y-Your Grace?” asks her senior guard.

“Did you notice the slashes on his clothes?”

“Other than it looks like he narrowly escaped an attacker with a sword.”

“He said the dragons attacked. I can’t imagine any of the messengers we sent surviving an attack by dragons, nor escaping. Additionally,” she gestures at the letter. “This reads like what I know of the letters I exchanged with Daniel, just from a woman’s slightly altered perspective. This is a genuine letter from Ryuogriar, the white dragon.” She points at the door where Gintor passed through moments ago. “That was a man with clean cuts from a dagger and minor injuries from a fistfight.”

Byleathea and the guard both gasp, and Byleathea whispers, “You think... his report was staged?”

Sundenelle smirks. “Let’s find out who he talks to after this, and where he goes with the next message I’ll be sending.”

“As you wish, your Grace,” replies the guard. He steps out of the room briefly to order his juniors to find and tail Gintor until proper spies can take up the tracking. Sundenelle looks at her mother. “Mother, I am beginning to believe Daniel and his companions know more about our own circumstances better than we do.”

***