An Audience with the Thane (Cassidy pse)

[Medea Quilde'tal]

Mid-Morning on Kuras, Brightening 9 of Cycle 5
Day 49 in the Month of Ioannes, Era I of Year X Post Fractum (PF).

New Coldmoon Thanal Manor

New Coldmoon's Thanal Palace

It had Medea a while to get to her final destination. The journey from Tirisfal had been ..... interesting...., and she had also spent an inordinate amount of time at New Coldmoon's city gates catching up on events with a Captain former colleague of hers. But eventually she had arrived at the residence of the Thane.

Subconsciously she tapped the mapcase on her belt at her hip which contained the piece of parchment calling her to New Coldmoon. Out of intrigue she had made the journey although selling the option of unpaid leave to her military superiors had been an achievement in itself.

The road leading to the residence looked most appropriate for coaches of royalty to trundle down; which left Medea feeling slightly out of place as she walked down the edge of it keeping to the shade of the trees.

The building was quite impressive, considering its use, and Medea watched on as servants milled around completing their duties. Making her way to the wrought-iron gates she greeted the quartet of guards with a broad smile as they announced that at least she had come to the right place.

" Serale ! I seek an audience with the Thane. I have come at her bidding. My name is Medea Lightfoot. "

Medea offered the scroll to the guard who had challenged her to reinforce her claim.

[Cassidy Al'lende]

Her grace was in a frightful mood, which constantly changed and revolved around bickering over simple matters. Minuel didnt know whether she was in her feminine time, or extremely stressed, and constantly fretting about the city’s outcome. He was very pleased to see Medea, and this showed on his face. Minuel’s expression was of a grateful, gracious man, who has seen a vicious battle or two.

“Medea Lightfoot,” he said gently, “New Coldmoon is very pleased for your company. Please, do follow.” He flashed her a charming, content smile. Attiring heavy armor, and clanky boots, he smoothly commanded the guards to allow them through. He proceeded to introduce himself, “I am Minuel, Lady Al’lende’s supreme guard. She will be very enthused with your presence.” And so, the couple walked towards the booming mansion, and Medea could be aware of the servents slightly staring at her.

It had been a while since they didn’t see a woman attired in frilly, lacy clothes.

When they approached the four guards, standing at the Thanal Manor’s main gates, they flashed Medea an appropriate, respectful smile. Obviously they had heard of her accomplishments.

“This is Medea Lightfoot, she’s here to see Lady Al’lende.” Minuel said, and was immediately allowed in. Once inside, several maids curiously gazed over eyelashes in surprise. One asked, “Would you like a drink, m’lady?…Or, something to eat? Or…” And another one pushed her out of the way, while the couple went towards Cassidy’s office.

Suddenly, Cassidy exited from the office, and noticed Medea. Her expression turned quiet baffled, before Minuel said, “My lady, Medea Lightfoot.” And the smile that replaced the fatigued, ill rested face was one of great joy and respect.

“Of course!” Cassidy said, her fingers coming together at the swoop of her gown’s bosom. She smiled widely and continued, “I’m so content you’re here, please- let’s go off to the Sunroom…” She was a lovely woman, one of grace and slender strength. Her blonde locks were braided, and it fell at the swoon of her voluminous hips and slim waist. Her eyes were startling sapphire, with silver flecks glowing within their orbs, now twinkling with pleasure.

[Medea Quilde'tal]

The man was quietly confident Medea could tell. A seasoned veteran of several campaigns herself the female elf could soon tell by the poise of a solider, retired or not, whether they were professional or not. Her initial impression of Minuel was to keep on his good side; a handy man to have at your back but not as your enemy.

The stares of the servants, whilst not unnerving, did attract Medea's attention. Unaware of the real reason why she was here Medea wondered whether they knew something more than she about her own presence. More reassuring, and knowing, smiles greeted her from the guards and she issued then a silent nod of greeting in return. Perhaps one or more of them had served with her once, she was unsure and did not immediately recognise any of them however.

Inside, and when a maid attempted to offer sustenance it was only Minuel's constant march and another servant's whisking away of the first that prevented Medea from nodding. It had been a long journey across three Provinces during an early Summer that had parched her throat.

Finally she came face to face with the figure she had heard about. A frail figure but one whose tongue was undoubtedly sharper than her sword. Medea had had her fill of diplomats in the past, indeed she had almost come to stand in these very hallowed halls. Medea wondered if the woman that stood before her now knew that Medea had almost stood against her in the contest for Thane of New Coldmoon. After the turmoil of the revolution Medea had received the backing of the military to replace the ousted official. Medea, however, had decided against it for several reasons none of which she would admit to Cassidy Al'lende.

"Serale, Your Grace." Medea responded, more out of politeness than real conviction. The Thane had summoned her here across three provinces and she was 'content' ! Medea began to wonder whether she had been summoned on a fool's errand. Their meeting had not got off to a good start and Medea was beginning to dislike this Thane already. However, she had made the effort to come this far and thus she followed Cassidy to where she wished to speak with her.

[Cassidy Al'lende]

Cassidy smiled at Medea momentarily before they were off towards the Sunroom. Though she was very pleased with Medea’s presence, fatigue swept into her elven features, causing her brow to furrow with tension, and her step slow. Spying Medea through midnight lashes, Cassidy’s interest was piqued. What an interesting woman, she thought curiously. Nonetheless, the interesting woman could save New Coldmoon. Cassidy would take her chances on extraordinary people if that were the case.

Opening two tall, wooden French doors, Cassidy stepped in, and waited for Medea to follow. Sapphire eyes drifted on Medea for a moment before gazing off into the rest of the room. It consisted of high arched ceilings, many clear glass windows, which reined the full length of the wall. Plants, filled in pots and bowls, and cups and hung by rope, filled with a exotic an enticing array of colors flashed, and seemed to brighten the room incredibly. The sun’s warm rays swept colorfully into the room, and for once, all was right for Cassidy.

“Wonderful. Please do take a seat.”

Cassidy implied the velveteen-cushioned chair behind a glass table, where Cassidy would be seated at the other side. Cassidy sat, played with her lacy gowns for a second, and gazed at Medea as her equal. That is, unless- things did not work out. “The reason you were called here today, and from such a distance,” She measured Medea appreciatively, “Is that New Coldmoon is –”

A man, with furry eyebrows and a snout nose entered, attiring the colors of New Coldmoon. In his hands was a silver platter, filled with pastries and rare vanilla tea. He bowed at both ladies presence and set the pastries at Medea and Cassidy’s table. He bowed, and left the room. Cassidy blushed and softly asked, “Forgive me, I’m in such a trance, please- you must be starved from your long journey.” They were filled with a particularly sweet jelly, which oozed from the pastry deliciously.

Cassidy, who was quite the nervous mess, watched Medea for her response.

[Medea Quilde'tal]

Following the Thane through the mansion until they reached the Sunroom Medea took in the architecture of the place. As the pair finally arrived at their destination Medea was reminded of the meditation room with the city's Temple to Carmelya. It was not as grand as the Temple room nor as well constructed but it still remained pleasant to the eye.

Offered a seat Medea looked down at the plush chair. It was nice, very nice indeed and she wondered which part of her equipment would tear a hole through both it and the cushions first. Chain armour, travelling pack, weapon scabbards, the list was endless. It appeared that the room was designed for audiences with less ..... equipped .... visitors.

Removing her pack and placing it upon the ground to lighten her burden Medea gave the Thane a slight shake of her head.
"I will stand, Your Grace, if it does not offend you."
And thus she paced idly around the room taking in the view from outside.

As Cassidy began to mention why she had brought Medea back to New Coldmoon she turned to give her her full attention once more, intrigued by what she had to offer. Disturbed by a waiter bringing tea and pastries Medea wandered back to the glass table to accept a cup of tea. She assumed that the Thane did not have the time or inclination to partake of the full tea drinking ceremony and thus just took the cup and began to ease her parched throat. The pastries, whilst tempting, looked quite heavy and Medea declined the offer preferring not to tempt fate by having one sit heavy upon her stomach. She would wait until she could partake of some plainer dishes. She had already agreed to meet some old friends at both the Barracks and Ranger Hall and she was sure that further acquaintances would be found within the city's watering holes.

Tea in hand, and already almost empty, Medea looked back toward Cassidy to partake herself and complete her explanations.

[Cassidy Al'lende]

Seeming troubled, Cassidy began to play with the lace on her gown, but confidently rid herself of the foolish habit and stared at Medea with determination. Her thoughts to keep nobility still deep within their conversations faltered, and she so candidly said, her voice husky with sweetness, and undoubtedly sensual.

“Of course I am not offended, do what pleases you.” She dismissed the velveteen chair’s situation casually. “To be quite blunt, Medea Lightfoot, New Coldmoon needs you desperately.” Cassidy blushed madly at the forwardness in her voice, and she momentarily licked her lips, took a deep breath and kept with it.

“With your…”Cassidy hesitated, “Expertise in …military issues,” In which, Cassidy knew naught about, “You must know about the New Coldmoonians sent to battle in Malice.” Her hands shook when she took ahold of her tea, and she had to put the fragile piece down to keep the extraordinary tea from spilling. Nervous, and figgety hands pushed a tiny wrinkle from her gown, and she wondered if it were her only flaw.

“However, before you decline, or even accept,” Cassidy murmured hurriedly, “Please know that, I’ve been searching for someone to bring New Coldmoon out of its slump. I have just become Thane, and I’ve no idea what is happening to us in Malice…” Cassidy’s level blue eyes reached towards Medea’s, “And so I’ve a proposition for you, a valuable one- if New Coldmoon is the victor, Commander of New Coldmoon’s forces.” Once she began talking, Cassidy grew much more confident, and it seemed as if her posture grew a foot. She spoke with her words spread articularly, and made sure not to ramble.

“I do not do this for my own accomplishments, but New Coldmoon is in dire need of a military leader…I really do believe you’re the woman for the job.”

[Medea Quilde'tal]

Medea ceased her pacing as the Thane came to the point about the city requiring her desperately.

"'Desperation' is a very strong word Your Grace, and should not be used lightly when in reference to a city's needs. True, I have some military skill and experience but where is the General and his senior staff?

I have only come to learn of the conflict at Malice since arriving within the city this brightening. I have heard that the Council deployed the military to the siege without authorisation and that many good men were lost. Truth be told, I do not even know where Malice is to be found. That you are unaware of events there astounds me. Does the city still have troops there and who is in command of them?"

Cassidy's words swam through Medea's mind in a confused mass. She had left the city after the revolution as a mere disillusioned Corporal. Had the city fallen so far after the catastrophic events of that fateful night. If anyone were to bring the city back to its former glory then surely that citizen should be the Thane themselves.

The proposition of command of the entire city's forces was indeed an inviting one. However, Medea knew too little about current circumstances to commit herself to anything.

"Your Grace, I cannot commit to anything until I have all the details, some of which it appears you are not in a position to help. I will need to make some enquiries at the Barracks to fathom what is truly unfolding with the military. With your leave I will use your name if necessary to discover the truth. But answer me one thing before I go. We have never met and yet you appear mindset that it is I who is the person for this task. What rationale do you have to make such a bold statement?"

[Cassidy Al'lende]

Cassidy’s voice hardened, “I am aware what the term means.” She said almost bitterly, and her fatigued façade was broken with a more stressed one. She nervously cast eyes outside, eyeing the well groomed outdoors of her manor. Cassidy crossed her legs anxiously and watched Medea. She was careful with her words.

“An audit will be called for the city’s council, and for the first time I will be introduced to the General, I have been more then displeased with his ways of action…that is why I am giving you this proposal.” She crossed her hands over another while studying the woman infront of her. Taking a deep breath, Cass’dea said softly, “You are astounded that I know naught about the situation in Malice, I am outraged. We have not received any news of late, and I aimed to hope that you as Commander, not only would our commands be carried out, and later come with success, but that I would be aware of this.” She swallowed, leaning forward to sip from her glass.

Cassidy appeared more then comfortable now, and much more confident. And she tossed a wicked, sinful smile to Medea and said simply, “I know much about you, Medea Lightfoot, I would never intentionally put my city in danger.”

She stood, and straightened her gowns and stared at Medea, her eyes breeching equality. “I am offering you, and dearly hoping you’ll accept once you’ve learned of New Coldmoon’s state.” Sapphire orbs lowered, “I see many great things coming from us, if we were to work together, as one.”

It probably was the first time, Cassidy’s words were sincere.

[Medea Quilde'tal]

The Thane’s tone and overall demeanour betrayed the indeed ‘desperate’ state of affairs within New Coldmoon. Medea began to wonder what she would be letting herself in for if she accepted the post offered her. She was also becoming more concerned over the likely reaction of the military’s senior staff if she were to suddenly appear and assume command. True, she had many friends and colleagues still within the rank and file and even some amongst the officer corps. However, there would be many officers, especially the senior ones, would resist a former Corporal imposing herself upon them even though she now wore the rank of a Captain. She would have to tread lightly and carefully if she was to prevent utter dissention amongst the ranks evolving into outright chaos.

Content to hear that the city council would be reviewed Medea commented,
“If I were to accept the position then it must be made clear that I will only be directly answerable to yourself or the Provincial Governor.”

Medea was aware that the two were related and had in fact actually met the Governor once although that liaison too had not been the friendliest of meetings.

“Also, if the General still remains within the city now then it should be made clear that he has been removed from office entirely. I will not have him demoted and remaining under my command to create turmoil and dissention. As to Malice, are you even aware as to why your troops are there and in what number, or am I to discover this from the Military Academy? If I see no reason or benefit for our being there do I then have your permission to withdraw the troops back to the city?”

The Thane’s evil smile that accompanied the statement that she knew ‘much’ about Medea did little to ease the Ranger’s apprehension. For someone who had never met her previously the Thane appeared quite confident of the woman she now spoke her mind to. Finally, however, Medea relented and agreed her terms,

“Meet my terms, and equip me with the authority of your position, and I will agree to your offer. It may be a temporary appointment but I will remain until the city’s military is once more the pride of the Province.”

[Cassidy Al'lende]

Cassidy easily shook off her first request, her bright eyes leveled easily with Medea’s. “Of course, I’d not like you to more people’s disposal…I intend for your success, you’ll be given anything necessary, anything you desire…for New Coldmoon’s own success of course.” She smiled softly, and sighed, covering a yawn, she was dearly tired. “As for your power with our forces in Malice.” Cassidy studied Medea, and gathered her to be a very strong, stubborn woman (Which was definitely a powerful characteristic.) Her nail drummed on her own willful cleft of her chin.

“As long as the Governor and I both are in agreement, you may do anything you desire with our troops, as long as they’re for the city’s own strengths.”

Cassidy rose and resisted the temptation to grin at Medea’s armor, the woman was inspiring. She lowered her head in silent agreement, “So it is settled, perfect.”

“I expect you to be at the city’s meetings, your words and ideals will be measured.”

Cassidy, who’s lips were rosy and cheeks slightly flushed smiled. Truly sincere. “Thank you, Medea Lightfoot, I think together much can be done for New Coldmoon.” And with that, Cassidy smiled brightly, “Is there anything else you need to discuss? I’m off to another meeting, I’m afraid.”

[Medea Quilde'tal]

The Thane accepted Medea's terms, albeit with typical diplomatic words that allowed her to bend any future discussion on the subject to her advantage. However, the agreement was there in principle which sated Medea's thirst for the immediate future.

With no other subjects to discuss at the time Medea agreed the audience was over. She too had work to do before the meeting on the morrow; intelligence had to be gathered and the seeds of her command sown within the ranks of the New Coldmoon military.

" There is nothing further to be discussed here Your Excellency. I shall rendezvous with you at the next meeting of the city council. "

The meeting complete Medea saluted the city official and made her way from the residence heading immediately for the military barracks.