Other Wordly Melodies

Mystice Grand Palace, is home to the Serdian monarchs, as well as the Serdian court, where the most influential nobles and friends of the king partake in almost endless festivities. The court is well known in Serdio, for it holds tremendous parties, costing upwards in millions.

The Palace is very large, with four floors, and is also built into the cliff, although the basement is the only floor actually in the cliff. The four elemental towers hold up the large steps and walk way, known as the "Mystice Walkway". This walkway is basically created, so that the Palace forms just not a building, but it's own gardens. A square formed Garden surrounds the entrance area, with guards patrolling it. Large statues and fountains squirt water, and guards keep the palace safe.

When walking in through the gate, one finds a large hallway, with entrances leading every which way. The first floor is open to the public, and you need not ask to go into it. The first floor is a tourist attraction, for it's olden look. Rich Holy Land Silk and Linen make up the carpeting, and wall paper made by famous Serdians make the room worth much. Large gaudy vases, sit on pedestals, locked in cases, so they will not be stolen. In the middle of the room, sits a large fountain, with gold coins in it. If you put a coin in the fountain, perhaps something will happen? Paintings of famous men, from Roga to Constantine, to even Drake dot the wall, each done with careful complexity. The first floor is mainly a work hall; many of the Palace Officials have offices down here, and Butlers and Maids constantly clean it so it does not look drab. This floor is not very special, and is common at best, compared to what lies above. One can find the stairs leading to the second floor right near the Lobby. However a guard makes sure only those invited may enter the second floor.

The second floor is much more extravagant than the first floor, mainly because the Royal Family does not have to worry about foreign tourists, or peasants touching up everything. Rich plants hang from the ceiling, and a rich crystal sky light gives the plants utmost warmth. Silken carpet and lightly painted wall paper compliment the second floor hall way as well. Statues of great Kings loiter to the side, and fountains of fairies spew water, as serene piano music fills the air. All the court balls and parties occur here, and it is party central. Hardly anything governmental is located on this floor, although you may find a few things. One will find the third floor entrance in the throne room, but a guard keeps everyone by Royal family members out.

The third, and final above ground floor is pretty much exclusive to the Royal family. The family is constantly on display, and even they need a break. This floor is quiet, and the most exquisite items are on display. Large portraits of the current family dot the hall, and precious gem stone chandeliers lie upon the ceiling. Again, silken carpet, and a light colored wallpaper make the floor look complete. This is where the royal family sleeps and rests, along with certain special guests. This floor is overall serene, and the best place to be in peace at.

Lastly, the basement. It is below the first floor, and is reached by an elevator. It is damp, and sickly. The guards of the palace rest, live, and train here. Prisoners who do bad deeds in the palace are jailed here, and one usually stays away from here. Cold cobble stone replaces silk, and grimy walls replace light wallpaper. Disease is common here, most people contract severe sickness if they stay and live here for large amounts of time. The basement is largely avoided it possible.

Outside The Palace:

Outer Gardens: The outer gardens make up a square platform which is connected to the "walkway" and elemental pillars. Large potted plants are what are in this garden, and is where some people enjoy to rest before proceeding inside.

Entrance Gate: The large colorful gate of Ivory, Granite, and Steel make up the entrance gate. This gate is the entrance to the palace, and is almost always open. It is usually closed after hours, and on festivals. The gate opens with a key, which all Royal Family members have.

Hunting Grounds: A forested arena, the Hunting grounds is a place where beasts are placed for monarchs to hunt at. It is seldom visited these days, for the King finds no fun in mundane deer and birds. It's fallen into decay, somewhat.

Royal Stables: A bit away from the main palace, the royal stables are where all the horses(and other mystical creatures..) of the royal family are kept. These royal steeds are graceful and strong, much more elegant than common steeds used by knights and peasants.

First Floor Rooms:

Lobby: The lobby is where most people wait, if they have come to see the an official. It is has large marble tiles, large columns in art-deco style, and many windows, with light pouring in. There are chairs for sitting in.

Patent Office: The patent office is almost always busy, and is ran by the officials. The patent office has branches as far as Alexandra, but it may be quicker to patent things here, at the Palace. The office is open whenever this floor is accessible,.

Official Offices: Many cramped offices, with bookcases, desks, and other items are home to the low ranking government officials, who take in papers, and make sure they are signed, rejected, or sent upwards for consideration. These offices look luxurious, but the job is not. Few officials make more than 500g a week.

Museum: The Museum is a lavished center, where people can learn about Serdian history, from the Hyu Republic, to the Serdian Shogunate, to the newly formed Kingdom. There are many artifacts on display, and many school children come to this Museum to learn about their kingdom.

Kitchen: Closed off ALWAYS, meals are prepared here, for small dinners, or a luxurious party, by the best chefs. The Mystice Palace has the honor of having chefs from many lands, allowing many exotic meals, mixing cultures to be put together.

Royal Chapel: When a Royal family member is ill, or unable to attend mass at the cathedral in Esto Gaza, the royal family will have mass in the Chapel.

Private Gardens: The Private gardens are more or so inside the palace, and walled in. The private gardens hold exotic plants from Eden and other far off lands, and it is much more luxurious than the outer gardens. The garden is private for the Royal Family, and is where Princess Trish used to come to think.

Air Station: The Royal Air station is more or less, leaving the first floor hall and walking off to a station with airships. These airships are reserved for the Royal Family, for any trips they may take. Also, the "Infinity", Drake's airship sits here. The Royal airships are better designed than those in the air stations of other cities.

Second Floor Rooms:

Throne Room: Decked in Serdian splendor, the Throne Room is at the far end of the hall. It is luxurious, not to mention where most ceremonies are held. The King takes in guests here, and usually does his work in here. The room has rich marble tiles, and even more art-deco columns line the room. It is an honor to be allowed in this room, for it is the gem of the Palace.

Ball Room: The ball room is large, and is where just a few of the Palace's extravagant parties take place. An orchestra personally hired by the King will always be on hand to serve music, and the King ensures the room big enough for at least two hundred couples to dance comfortably.

The Royal Salon: Used by the royals, many intimate meetings with friends occur in the Salon, where nobles gamble, drink, and gossip in the presence of their lord. It is a very fun and carefree place, with luxurious furniture and paintings all around. Many enjoy the tranquility within the hall.

Dining Hall: This hall is where eating takes place during the large extravagant parties. The King sits at the head of the table, with other guests lined down the sides.The chefs that cook for the Royal Family ensure that the guests will have wondrous exotic foods to sample. The family takes many meals here, and it's well known that many nobles come to watch.

Guest Corridors: The Guest corridors are full of rooms, where guests of the Royal Family stay. Each one has two king sized canopy beds, fresh with soft sheets. There are fireplaces, and even chests, filled with the rim with silk and linen clothing. The chest is magical protected. You can take one suit of clothing out a day. If you try to remove more, the chest will bite you. Permanent guests, those who live at the palace have rooms on the third floor.

Royal Library: The Royal Library is large, filled to the rim with knowledge of worlds over. It is large. It has a base floor, then a staircase leading up the second floor(It's all in the same room). Both floors have bookcases filled with knowledge of history, math, language, and other stuff. There are desks here as well: All Royal children are tutored here, and any guest of the family may check out books.

Clinic: The Clinic is the hospital for the Palace. There are two beds for sickened patients. Many jars of medicines hang on the walls, and many doctors work around the clock to serve the palace. Most royal children have been delivered here, and the family is usually treated here. The Clinic boasts that none of their patients have died in the Clinic.

Gem Pool: Steamy and warm, the Gem pool is large Romanesque artrium, with a large pool. Lots of Gems adorn the room and pool, and many relax in this very place, discussing regal things. Although it is a pool, NO ONE swims in it.

Third Floor Rooms:

Food Storage: Away from thieving hands, the Chefs keep a room full of ingredients and pre-made foods in this storage, for winter. The room is kept cool with ice magic, so no food will spoil.

Drake's Bedroom: The King's bedroom, is very luxurious and big. It has a large canopy bed, with silk sheets, not to mention a fireplace. It has a desk and bookcase for private studies, and a chest stuffed to the rim with clothes. Drake is very quiet when it comes to his room. He doesn't let many in.

Trish's Bedroom: Bedroom of Drake's sister, Trish. It has a king sized bed, with silken sheets, and many other feminine things. Drake usually keeps it locked, and has only given Trish a key. This means if Trish is gone for a long time, she'll come home to a dusty room!

Sage and Nina's Bedroom: The bedroom of Drake's other two sisters. It's very large and full of very girly things.

Mog's Bedroom: Mog's bedroom is very large. It has a king sized bed with silken sheets, a large toy chest filled with royal toys, and a bookcase. Mog's bedroom reminds many of a youngsters room..

Raghnall's Room: Raghnall's room is much like Shayaateen's, except it's not that dark and moody. It's very cheery.

Shayaateen's Bedroom: The bedroom of the advisor, Shayaateen has a very dark and moody room full of dark artifacts. It's almost always locked.

Living Chambers: The Living Chambers are large and comfortable, and are basically the Royal families living room. There are large comfortable couches, and many book cases. The room is where the royal family lounges.

Towers: There are many towers, built into the palace. They are good for viewing, and were once used to house civilians during wars where Serdio was invaded. They are large, and have three floors, just like the palaces. Their only entrances are up on the third floor however.

Guard Tower: Large and stately, the guard tower is luxurious. It has many floors, for sleeping, resting, and eating. The Guards and Magicians occupy this tower, and make good use of it as well. It can cause some commotion however, with many rowdy soldiers.

Observatory Square: The square is a garden like area, overlooking the vast ranges of Serdio. A large Telescope is in this square, where you can view nearby places. It sits elevated a few feet from the third floor, and is located in the north. You take steps from the third floor to reach it.

Basement Rooms:

Dungeon: Slimy, not to mention depressing. These are the words that come to mind when entering the dungeon. Many cells of steel, with just a small bunk and a toilet. Prisoners are usually put here, and are allowed visits by family sometimes. There are guards to ensure that no one tries to break out.

Engine Room: Locked away and hidden, the engine room runs the palace, which is rumored to be a flying machine, if activated. The room opens via a control panel, but few know where it is.

Barracks: The guards which keep the palace peaceful are known as the "Royal Protection Unit" or RPU. The RPU store their goods here, and have training sessions down here. The Guards have rooms in the Guard Tower, located on the third floor.

Docks: The Docks are large and hold many ships. Mist always lingers here, for it is below sea level. It is a refreshing area to think, and many guards usually come out here to think. The palace gets much of it's merchandise from foreign countries through the docks.

Workshop: The workshop is where the engineers work. The Palace engineers make sure all machines in the Palace work well, and also ensure that the Royal airship and boat run well too.

Ship/Airship:

Ship: Foresta
-Docked in the basement docks, unless it's being used(obviously)
-Foresta was Drake's ship since he was little, and was custom made in Poseidon. It's a mixture of a sail boat/regular boat. It can sail through winds, but also has motors to move manually.

Airship: Infinity
-Usually in the first floor air station, unless it's being used(obviously)
-Infinity was made by Rogue as a gift to Drake. Although Rogue is long dead, Drake kept the ship as a rememberance. Infinity is equipped with many weapons, and is one of the most hi-tech airships in existence.

Drake made his way to the palace. He expected a large rubble of ash, but it wasn't. The castle stood, as glorious as it had the day before Kuja had invaded. Rushing up the dirt path, Drake saw figures come into view, at the entrance steps.

"Eh?" Drake said, inching closer.

"BROTHER!" Two girls shriked.

"My lord, my lord! Over here!" Another voice cried out.

"Drake, oh Drake!" Two other voices shouted.

Drake smiled, taking notice. His two sisters..Shayaateen..and his parents. All had gathered here, with the various government officials and courtiers. So much jubilation was occurant. But it was only the first step. The Celestials still needed to be crushed and the Sorthanian's defeated.

From there, Drake smiled and headed indoors with his family. They had things to discuss..

As soon as their ship reached the Serdian Territory, Mages Circle Advisor Hezu and General Aiger immediately headed for the Mystice Palace. There was no time to dawdle and go sight-seeing as news of war with the Holy Lands has reach their ears. The young Vogan Vizu* figured it was best to send two people that she trusted the most. Mages Circle Advisor Vimosu seemed to be preoccupied with other matters and Head Mage Unsu was definitely out of the question.

Eventually, Hezu and Aiger arrived at the palace entrance, Aiger making it loud and clear of their arrival in the most respectable manner. It was not like him to be rude unless it was accidential and he lost control. He has influenced Hezu in many ways so she follows his example.

*It means "Imperial Lady"

The talking people saw the Aquanauts, turning quickly to greet them. Shayaateen rushed ahead to bow and smile. It was nice to have visitors. At most times.

"Hello," The advisor replied.

Both Hezu and Aiger bowed in returned, mumbling a low hello. They did this in unison, and both kept a straight face. Some may find it erie, but Hezu and Aiger has not run into many of those people. In any case, they were both waiting for Shayaateen to lead them inside, and would not move until he did.

"We're here to talk with the Serdian King or perhaps you, sir," Aiger explained.

"I will speak with you. His majesty has been through alot."

Aiger nodded his head, and gestured his hand at the palace interior when he replied, "I understand. Shall we step inside or do you feel uneasy with us?"

A hint of agitation was noticable when he said the word "uneasy," but he did not show this in his expression. Hezu, however, did show some irritation. She tried to hold it back or make it less obvious, especially when Aiger took a quick glance at her.

"Out here is fine, I believe." Shayaateen replied curtly. "Now, tell me what it is you need."

Now this was just insulting, but forunately, it was Aiger and Hezu and not Unsu. Though, Hezu still had a displeased look on her face, and it wasn't going to go away right now. Aiger simply let out a cough as he was a man of pride and diginity, something like this wouldn't upset him much.

"Rumors have been spreading, and we've come here to make sure if these just rumors are really rumors," he began, arms strictly placed at his sides. "We've heard that Serdio has declared war on the Holy Lands."

"You Aquanauts keep up quite well on the news. That was weeks ago. But yes, we did declare war on the Holylands. For the betterment of Zelpha. Or do you enjoy Celestial colonies near you?"

"We personally prefer no colonies of any sort," he replied.

Hezu then added, "That may change in the future, but at this time, the council is weary."

Aiger nodded and asked, "If that's the case, what do you plan to do exactly against such a large and powerful country?"

"They are hardly..large and powerful. What goes up, must come down. Serdio with her allies shall win. The Holylands can not be everywhere at once. You know that, yes?"

"I am aware of that, we're just concern about the effects of this declaration," he explained. "In the words of... a colleague: Try not to make too much of a mess now."

"Good day," Hezu finished. And then they left.

((Dinner))

Jase walked into the Hall of Diamonds bitterly, his arm around Dula's waist. Great, more mirrors, what was it with mortals and mirrors?! He stopped, saluted quickly and placed his arm back around Dula's waist. He didn't like the fact that they had been interrupted at such a time. " You...wished to see me?", Jase said, reminding himself that he was, in fact, in service to this child.

"Yes, and it is of dire importance. I apologize if I called you at such a bad time, but it was now or never." The young king peered forth, smiling. There were a few government officials in the room, bustling forth with glee, gathering items and writing hurridly.

"It seems Meira is attempting a great project. A..democracy. With voting. I want to create a compact as such, but..not a democracy. But rather..a helpful council. Elected by the wealthy. But that's not the point. Anyways.."

Drake pulled down a map of the world. He pointed at Vulcan.

"A few days ago you siezed the Oases, and with our victories in the south, some of the coast. It must be exploited, you know."

From the gaggle of officials, Shayaateen stepped forth.

"My lord Jase. His majesty proposes we colonize what we have siezed. That we form a colony; The colony of Alexandria, centered on the ancient city along the river, once ruled by powerful Sultans. He wants you to lead the project."

Dula glared up at them. She was in no mood for this. “Surely there is someone else to do such a task. This is political work, not army work. If you try to make a colony with an army you will get nothing but resentment. I think an ambassador would be a better pick for such a feat.” Needless to say, Drake and his messenger did interrupt something, and she was not happy about it.

Jase nodded, " Indeed. Why send me? I sense an ulterior motive here." He turned to Shayateen. After telling Dula of his past, Jase was intent on seeing if Shayateen knew anything about it. " I wish to speak to you after this meeting, Advisor."

Shayaateen glared at Dula.

"You know nothing of politics. Leave this to those that do. Colonies are founded on military power. Who defeats the natives, clearing the path for colonists? The army. Who first settles the land? The army. The army is not a thing that makes war. It also creates nations. And colonies too. So Lord Jase, you shall go? We have set aside land for you to make an estate, and you will be governor for life. I shall also gladly speak to you."

Jase mulled it over. It would indeed keep him as far away from the king as possible. That thought pleased him, he didn't like taking orders and he wouldn't be interrupted nearly as often by the lad. " he turned to Dula, " I'll accept, it will be nice to have a change of scenery, especially with you there, my love." He saluted again, out of political niceties and gestured to the hall outside of the room. " Alright Advisor, we must talk, but just you, me and the Lady Pendula."

"If you need to speak with me, if will be me and you. Only you. Drake, I believe there is some paperwork upstairs for you to do, correct?"

The king rose from his seat.

"Yes, of course. It was quite nice to see you again Lord Jase. A pity we couldn't speak longer.." The king's voice was venom, and with nothing more, he left the room.

Dula nodded to him. It was obvious the two disliked each other. “I can’t say I can figure out his reasoning but very well. I shall go where ever you go.” She replied slipping her hand into his and shifting closer to him. Then Shayaateen’s words hit her. She hissed at him and bared her fangs. She sent her thoughts to Jase’s mind. This man is going to get his throat ripped out. Do you wish for me to stay here or accompany you? I can simply listen to the conversation like this if you wish.

Go back to the estate and gather our belongings. Speaking to him alone may unfortunately be the only way to get information from him. he has always been fickle. I shall see you momentartily, my love Jase turned to Shayateen as she left. He would of course, tell her afterwards what they spoke of. " Alright, I need to know. What do you know of Project: Elite Killer?"

Dula simply nodded. She felt something intruding her mind and glared at Shayaateen. “Nice meeting you again.” She hissed at him and walked out. She didn’t even bother to pretend to bow. Shayaateen was on her last nerve for tonight. She was very moody today it seemed.

Shayaateen gave the general a dull stare.

"..What the hell are you talking about my boy? I might be old, but you are speaking in tongues to me. What is this about?"

Jase nodded, " I may be shooting in the dark then, so to speak. You know nothing of a project one hundred and fifty years ago by a group of Serdina elitists? To create an assasin that might have bended the Serdian hierarchy to their whims? Had the project not been.....cut short?"

"You do not know your history very well, do you." Shayaateen said to Jase.

"One hundred and fifty years ago, Serdio was ruled by the Calov dynasty. I did not become the advisor to Serdio until Drake's grandfather became king. The Rlugia dynasty is very young. I'm afraid any projects carried out were carried out by the whim of the Calovs."

He paced..

"But, Calov Serdio was not a strong nation. It bent to the will of those around it. Maybe the Kenjikian empire had something to do with it. I'm sorry I'm not much help. I didn't do much advising until Drake's grandfather hired me, so even if Kenjiko had something to do with it..well, I'll look. I took all the official documents out of Kenjiko during it's destruction. I probally won't be able to find it today; but if I do find anything, I'll tell you."

The advisor gave a look of grimace, leaning against the wall.

"Sorry I'm not much help. But I'll try. In return..I ask you just try to be more friendly towards his majesty. He's just getting used to ruling..he's a little irritable. He understood being treated as a child a few months ago. In effect, he was. But now, he rules a country. He's just confused. He wants to be treated as an adult, but he's not really ready. Just don't worry about it. I'll speak to him later of his attitude. And if I find anything, I'll send it to Vulcan."

Jase nodded, " Look, all of this information is based off of my fuzzy memories from when I was a human. I'm not even as interested as all who were involved as much as I am in one name. Assurias. He was a nobleman and a vampire. More then that, he was my sire. I have believed him dead for the past hundred and fifty years, yet, I have reason to believe he may be alive. I thank you for your words, advisor. As for the king, I'll try." jase nodded again and disappeared, using Dula's spell to transport back to his estate.

It was a troubling day, for the King, Drake Rlugia. As he gazed out the window from the throne room, he could only rub his temples in dispair. What was wrong with him? So many mood swings. He snapped at anyone who dare challenge him. Then again, just days ago he had fought Kalishra. No, it couldn't have anything to with that. Perhaps it was just the pain of getting used to being an Arch-Knight. Yin and Yang. A balance. That had never worried of such balances.

"Ugh..what is wrong with me.."

It was a quiet night. Not bad of course, but quite peacefully, actually. And so, in all his graces the King stood on the balcony. It had been yet another tiring day. Work, work, and more work. Alas, the life of a despot! Still, Drake didn't mind that much. He did enjoy some free time to dine, or speak with his family. But overall, it was a hard day.

"Oh how I miss the out doors..how much longer must I be caged?"

"Not much longer, I presume.."

The voice was that of the advisor. Drake slip down from the Balcony terrace he had been sitting upon to greet him. Warm nights; only in summer could Drake lounge. But even so, he was king now. Lounging would be even more rare.

"What's up?" Drake questioned.

"Well...news from your mother. Your father..I'm afraid he's passed on. You know he's been very ill since his birth; it's amazing that he actually lived this long! I'm sorry. I'm a little too rash, aren't I?"

Drake stared at the ground for a moment, trying to comprehend what the advisor had stated. So Dionysus..his father, the dowager, was dead. Yet no tears came. Drake knew this would come within time..it was just startling. Drake was a little bit happy. His father would no longer suffer.

"Thank you, Shayaateen. I'll be fine, though. Nothing I can't handle. I'm a Rlugia, after all..."

No better time. No better stage. No better person.

The castle of Serdio lie quite and still, at least compared to the normal patrolling of the guards. Due the recent war activity and troop movement and the resulting casualties, however, the grounds were all but silent. The best guess Shido could deduce was at least four hundred palace guards gone, likely more.

In other words, a security gap. The perfect infiltration moment.

The words of the elder vampire still stay fresh in his mind. He wanted to taste a high born. When word reached Shido of the missing guards he knew an opportunity when he hears one. So now he stood on the wall encircling the castle. Normally under such circumstances he would be apprehended in moments, but as stated guards were thin and far between. Even if caught he would be able to silence his discovery before the alarm was raised.

Like he had silenced the headless corpse at his feet.

The stance of the vampire was infallible, deft a skillful actions emanated from his form. Caught he would not be, and his prize he would have. A guard moved under the wall, glancing up. Shido let himself be seen. The guard raised a whistle to his lips...

And fell to a heap on the ground, a gasp of breath and spray of crimson leaking from the slice deep in his neck. Too easy.

Shido moved silently with both grace and skill for the side entrance from the courtyard. He slipped in the door and headed down the hall, taking a moment to think his disgust at the over extravagance of the decor.

From the hall he made his way to the stairs, leaving three more corpses in the corridor. He crept up the steps to the third floor, leaving another corpse hanging over the railing.

The sound of footfalls above him was obvious now. More guards inhabited the top floor, signaling it as the area his target resided. Instead of heading down the passage to the stairs Shido went to a nearby window, dropping the fifth corpse out the window before climbing onto the sill himself.

Gripping the rough stone surface Shido began to climb. His movement was as fluid and swift as a jackrabbit on a flat plain. Soon he rested unseen gripping the underside of a balcony.

He heard the voice of the one he hunted above.

"Thank you, Shayaateen. I'll be fine, though. Nothing I can't handle. I'm a Rlugia, after all..."

Drake Rlugia.

"So you're fine?" Shayaateen replied to the king.

"Of course.." Drake replied, leaning against one of the Roman columns. "It's warm tonight, don't you think?"

"Quite. But it's also late. Do you intend to stay up much later, my liege..?"

"A little bit. I'm fine though, go to sleep if you desire."

Shayaateen bowed and took his leave. Drake shrugged and looked up at the moon. It was full. Only weirdos came out on such nights...

A door closed in the room above. Drake was alone, and the time to strike was now. Shido crawled nearer to the edge of the balcony, followed by shadows of a moonlit night. These patches of lightless darkness gathered around Shido, until his whole form turned to a dark ink.

In this tenebrious form Shido slid through the railing of the balcony, sliding across the floor like a black cloak fluttering at it’s edges.

At the center of the room the shadow rose up, forming a recognizable humanoid shape. Light seemed to be drawn to this, seemingly dispelling the shadow and returning the vampire to his own form.

He stood formally in front of Drake, right arm outstretched towards his torso. A long, slender, blade-like claw grew slowly forth from the end of his forefinger. Is was a sickly color, looking as if a bone had grown through the end of the digit leaving it covered in crimson. It grew until it was a full foot long.

Shido did not leave time for warm up or pleasantries. He charged, aiming the claw forward to end the target with a spike through the heart.

Drake made a quick, although not a very graceful leap away from the Roman-esque pillar he had been leaning against. Damn monsters! Drake had always figured spells kept beasts away from the wilderness that was the Palace grounds. Sadly, he wrong. Breathing heavy, the king rose up from the ground. He needed to be more careful; that last jump hurt way too much...

"Foul creatures, I guess you need your head bashed it? I'll be glad to do so." Drake smiled at the being. How grotesque! How did such a thing even manage to get into the palace..?

'Note to self: Hire more guards.'

He quickly unsheathed his mythril blade.

"Well? Shall we try this again? Maybe you'll play fair this time! It's just not right to attack someone unarmed, but I suppose cowards are cowards.."

It was another day passing. Yet already, it was June. Summer was fast approaching, but Drake didn't care. He spent days lounging, as Shayaateen prepared for the Congress of Galastar, to clean up the mess left behind by Kuja. He was gone, and Drake was alone. Aside from servants. His sisters had left to go to Bali; his father's funeral was anyday now. But Drake, without his advisor could not leave. Serdio needed him. The shackles of work were too powerful. He needed to get out! He needed a break. To explore, and roam...

"But, I cannot..." Drake sighed, leaping off the railing of the balcony. He always sat outsite it seemed, to gaze at the moon and stars. How funny. A despot who adored mystical, elven rituals! As he left the balcony, he headed down the stairs, through the winding halls. Silk and luxury; giggling courtiers, it was all so fake. But Drake loved it.

"Ah. Milord." A noble stated.

"Oh? Vivian. Hello!"

Vivian was a eighteen year old girl, daughter of the illustrious Duke of Cambria. She was alot like Drake; hated her pompous life, and enjoyed many common things. They got along well, but she was never around much to make a big difference. She was usually spending her days doing what noble girls did--sewing, cooking, learning poetry and writing.

"Vivian! It's been forever! I thought your father sent you to a Convent School up in Meredith? I didn't think I'd see you so soon!" Drake grinned, and Vivian playfully tugged at her dress, embracing the king in an instant. She was very outgoing, something that made her the butt of all jokes in the court. Many playfully labeled her the "whore of Mystica" which had caused great distress. It was good to see her back.

"Well, he was set on me entering into the church, to be perhaps a nun or something. I was pretty ready too, I've always been dedicated to Zelphis, but after Jacob died, well, things changed. I'm the heir to all his domains and estates. Obviously, he can't have a nun as an heir! So I'm back at court for awhile!"

Drake smiled. He was glad. One more friend was a good thing.

"Erm..did you need to tell me something?" Drake questioned.

"Oh, oh yes. Shayaateen--he's sent a letter. Everything is prepped for the Congress, he wants you to get started on paperwork."

Drake groaned. Paperwork. He wouldn't even attend the Congress?

"Lame," Drake snarled. "I hate doing paper work."

"Then don't." Vivian snapped. She was also aggressive. Drake liked that.

"But.."

"But nothing! Do what you want!" Vivian quickly replied.

"I have work to do.."

"C'est la vie, then.." Vivian smiled. Getting under Drake's skin was the only way to make him change his mind. It obviously worked.

"Well then, I won't. How about we head to Esto Gaza? They have a new play at the Playhouse I want to see."

"Well, okay, you are the king, afterall. Let me go change into something more suitable. I'll meet you at the gate in an hour."

As the young Archduchess skipped away, Drake was feeling red in the face. Perhaps his love life was not doomed afterall. He had felt a little unsettling after he and Dula were no longer on best terms, but no matter.

"Poor Selena, I hope she understands that I'm only a king.."

About an hour later, Drake made his way to the entrance of the palace. There was a huge mess of noble rabble, all dressed in their fine silk, brandishing fans, and speaking of idle things Drake didn't really care too much for. It was late, of course, but it really didn't matter. Few went to bed early on warm nights such as this.

"My lord!"

Drake smiled, taking notice of Vivian. She sat along the banister of the entrance, waving a fan. Her dress was large, yet made of fanciful blue silk. Her hair was also up in the popular Faen style, although it was slowing falling out. Drake looked down, he was dressed so meager! Oh well.

"Hi," Drake replied, as he slid up next to Vivian. "..Why are all the courtiers gathered out here, anyways?"

"Oh, just chatting. I was talking about going to the play tonight with you, and so many just jumped at the occassion. Like they just HAD to do it. Hehehe.." Vivian smirked, laughing smuggly. She enjoyed teasing Drake, dragging his whole court to some play.

"I see..well, let's get going..everyone."

Soon the carriges, buggys, and cars that filled the court were speeding off, towards the dim lights further south. Esto Gaza.

The Chief Ambassador of the Empress of Edo-Meria was in a state. A flustered state of course, as he always was. He was a tall man, with watery feature, narrow of eye and round of face that suggested the far north. He was undoubted of Pasvie race (Which most people referred to as Undead, though he refused that name in favor of the more scientific, and less demeaning one) though his family hadn’t lived in Daio for generations. He would soon pilgrimage to Hayholt, where he would transform into the new race by the hands of her most reverent and powerful Majesty, Sabriel Novendot.

Except, according to the letter he held in his hand (written in the most suburb of hand, with the finest inks, on the finest paper) said that her Imperial Majesty was coming to Serdio.. today! He had to notify the Serdian ambassador of state.. he had to get rooms ready! Oh drat, he thought, sending servants this way and that (trying to contact some Serdian official who could help him), he wished that he had been given more time with which to prepare some sort of welcome..

"The Empress of Edo-Meira is coming to Serdio? Of course, I'll go see the ambassador right away."

Shayaateen dismissed the servant soon after, raising up from his study. So, the empress was coming to visit? So many things needed to be prepared..food, decorations, and so many other items! It had been a very long time since a head of state had visited Serdio..then again, war had ravaged Zelpha for so long. Shayaateen took his time making his way through the dazzling, sparkling halls of the palace. Ah, so much to do, so much to do! Such a short notice.

Quickly, Shayaateen dipped into the guest hall, going down past each-room, looking for the Ambassador of Meira. Where was he? He had private quarters, did he not? It was not much longer until Shayaateen popped in on the ambassador. He bowed profusely.

"I apologize, I just got a note from the servant. Is it true that she is coming?"

The Ambassador nodded. “It’s true. I’ve just received letter myself.”

He beamed. To the people of Meria, their Empress was held in the adoration of a goddess. She had defeated Mortikan, united a fragmented people, begun transforming an evil race with a history too long to repent. She was held in the highest reverence, she could do no wrong. She ruled from Hayholt, a sparkling city. she was pretty, always dressed impressionable. She was enigmatic and yet, relatable. She was an icon of this new and powerful state.

“Her Zeppelin will get in around seven in the evening, which gives us about five hours. Does his Majesty know that she is coming?”

"His majesty has been spending the last few days in the company of a young noble known as Vivian. Her father is very influencial around here, and they've been friends for ages. I'll alert him when he returns..in fact, I'll send some guards to fetch him."

Shayaateen called a servant in and gave him the orders. It was simple. Go find the king, and bring him back the palace so he could help prepare for the arrival of the Empress. So much needed to be done!

"Now then, what exactly do we need to do? I'd like her majesty to arrive with a grand pocession here. It is most befitting anyways. I think a feast would suffice, given such a short time we have..do you have any suggestions?"

“Her Majesty is fond of dumplings... and fruit of course... most Merian dishes.. you’re familiar with them I’m sure. She’s fond of lowland cooking too, from Sudland. Serdian food though, should suffice. She does harbor a soft spot for your brownies..” The Ambassador smiled. Brownies would be entirely inappropriate to serve at a State dinner.