Aura of the Moon - Chapter 27-29 (Patreon)

Chapter 27

Caelin hired a carriage to reach the banquet just as the sun was setting. Fashionably late is what it was called. Since he was the a member of the Imperial family he would have to be announced upon arrival and that would draw more attention to him with the maximum number of people present. He exited the carriage in front of the the main entryway behind a few other stopped carriages and noted the lively camp off towards the far right of the Manor. He smiled and said to his attending Knight.

“The Duke certainly loves to appear magnanimous. Holding a feast every month for all the people in the town and all the soldiers? Bread and circuses, was it?” He straightened his clothes one last time self-consciously.
“How do I look?” He was wearing Imperial Garb. The symbol of Sol that only those of imperial blood were able to wear; a sun. He wore it with a golden gem at the center as a clasp over his tie. His suit was ivory white with gold lacing and buttons; there were flare-shaped designs sewn in gold up the legs of the pants and the shoulders of course had tassels, to signify his position in the Imperial Knights Order.

“Regal, Your Highness.” The Knight offered in a neutral tone.

The Knight, who was dressed in far more subdued evening wear, walked ahead of Caelin to the two the massive double doors and whispered to the man guarding them. The guard gave a deferential nod and motioned to his partner on the other side. A third guard entered ahead of Caelan and cleared his throat.
“Announcing the presence of His Imperial Highness, the Small Sun of the Empire, Crown Prince Caelin Dagda Luachair!” Everyone in the hall quieted down and bowed respectfully upon his entry, even the Duke, seated above the hall at the very head of the room stood up and showed due respect. There was nothing out of place that could be picked apart, despite it being a backwater banquet, by his appraisal.

`What can be said for it is how well Castezin keeps his vassals in line. Seeing this, I may have to reassess my strategy in the future under the assumption that these people are far more unified than I thought.`

There were many local nobles, but very few people of note. There were some others of minor Nobility from outside the Castezin Duchy, but he was pleased to see that number was rather small. Caelin could be sure that even if Castezin was a united Duchy, it would not be implausible to turn the rest of the Empire against it. He searched for one particular person as he walked down the center of the red and gold carpet. Since the gift had been returned, Caelin almost expected to see Ayla at the Duke's side as a taunt. He was prepared for it. She was nowhere to be seen, however.

`Strange. If I were the Duke I would have used her. Even if it would never work, it's a good play.` He reached the head of the room and smiled cordially at Almos.

The Duke had descended the steps and as Caelin approached he lowered himself further out of due respect to the crown.

“I greet His Highness, the Small Sun of the Empire. Thank you for attending this humble gathering. I was made aware of your arrival and in commemoration of your visit I have commissioned a painter to capture the nights event.”

Caelin noted that it was so perfect to the point of being boring. There was nothing to pick at. The Duke was a worthy politician, to say the least. The Prince  nodded and showed due respect on his end as well by bowing, since it would have reflected poorly on him to not respond to politeness with politeness.
“I greet His Grace, the highest Duke in the Empire. As thanks for hosting my rude self on such short notice I have brought twenty large spools of silk thread from my Maternal house, the Dagda Duchy in the south.”

Almos nodded. “I receive it happily, though your presence here was enough of a gift, to be sure. His Highness is always welcome in Castezin.” After that exchange the attendants all clapped at the display of unity between the two men. Among the heavy hitters in the Castezin sphere, however, Caelin could not help but pick up an undercurrent of tension.

The Prince lifted his chin in response to the atmosphere. `The message is subtle but simple. 'Try me' is it, Almos?` He shook his head.
“There's no need to be so humble. You are the child of my precious Aunt, which makes you family, Cousin. Please allow me the pleasure of seeing you relax a little in my presence.”

“If His Highness wishes it we may share a drink as two men who share blood.” Almos responded.

“I'm pleased to.” Right on time, Pavel, the head butler of the manor arrived with two beautiful crystal glasses with a clear amber liquid, as if prepared specially for this moment. Caelin took from the Duke's side and the Duke smiled, grabbing the other glass delicately. Caelin turned and raised his glass.
“A toast to the longevity of the Empire and the bounty of this years harvest!” There were more claps as he made a point to drink the whole glass in one gulp for show. The toast was one aimed at the vassals, mostly. Castezin Duchy's western Marches sat in lowland plains on the border of Orcitanaea. Breadbaskets of the empire. He had his eyes on those most of all, as a method to starve the Duke out.

Once things had calmed down everyone resumed the festivities; after all the pleasantries the Prince was simply another guest. Caelin leaned in to whisper to the Duke.
“I hope that the Knight I referred to you has exceeded expectations, Cousin.” Caelin referred to him affectionately as a cousin to throw him off, but it got no real response.

Almos was amused that the Prince was still going to take credit for sending Ayla over despite writing the referral so obviously for the Imperial Knights.

“Far more than exceeded. Such a treasure entering my service is a gift greater than even a hundred large spools of fine silk.”

Caelin was taken off balance by the remark. Ayla was someone that had quirks. Caelin knew them pretty well already and he felt like he understood her. In his mind, she was not supposed to be someone that could mesh well with a traditional military force. He always assumed she would have nowhere else but at his side since she was a commoner, and a bit of a lunatic. None of that was said.

“I see. I'm so glad.”

“You look it.” Almos teased subtly. It made Caelin's blood boil. There was no sarcasm, but the Duke was too smart to accidentally hint that he was no happy with what happened. It was not an open insult, but an agreement to something he said, so nothing could be done.
“Thank you for coming, truly, but I am afraid I am bound by obligation to go greet my other guests.” With that the Duke tactfully left him alone.

`He didn't even mention where she was. There's no way she would be mixing in with the rabble outside, right?` He thought.

`I'm stuck here for at least an hour if I want to save face. How annoying.` If the Prince joined then left the party quickly it could be seen as an insult without a proper excuse. To top it off, guests, small lords and vassals began lining up to introduce themselves to him for points with the Crown. Caelin was forced to earnestly meet with anyone that wanted to greet him in order to make a good appearance. Inside, however, he was screaming curses at Almos Castazin.

He left as soon as he could, feeling like the night had been a complete failure. Asside from some relatively mundane gossip from the minor Nobility he did not find any weakness of the Duke, he did not find anyone that showed interest in following him, he did not even find an opportunity to explore the manor since the other guests simply would not leave him alone. He also felt as though he was under constant surveillance from one of the maids.
`At least the food was good.` His Knight approached once he was outside and away from the Castezin soldiers.
“What did you find?” Caelin asked.

“Your Highness, I found her with a group of soldiers and Knights in the camp they set up. I'll lead you there.”

“Just tell me.” The Knight knew he had no way of stopping Caelin at all. He freely offered the directions. Caelin followed the careful directions through the forest of tents and bonfires, making sure to keep mostly out of sight. He felt surprisingly quite pleased to have ended up in the camp as it could very well be the same camp layout if they were to go to war. Finally he came upon the location of Ayla, according to the Knight. Caelin stopped, observing from afar.
“Hm.” There was a fool dancing by the fire.

`Hah. She must hate herself right now.` He smirked, resting his eyes on her expression. Caelin's mouth fell open in shock. The corners of his lips dipped into a shallow frown as he took it all in. He saw her smiling and laughing like he had never seen before. He barely saw her smile in a genuine fashion, let alone laugh. Ayla tended to be serious and impolite as her natural state. She would only pretend to show politeness or positivity if the moment called for it. Caelin did not mind because she was useful. He always presumed she was like that with everyone.

`Apparently not everyone.` He stood there for a little while, watching her dance with the man. Before they finished he turned around and left for the carriage. Caelin climbed in without a word and closed his eyes. He tried to remain still, but fidgeted by tapping his foot rapidly as it carried him down the hill towards the town. When the carriage stopped Caelin opened his eyes and stepped down, walking into the lobby of the Inn. Nealin had come down to meet him.

“How did it go?”

“Unexpectedly.” He admitted wearily.

“Did you make contact with Ayla as planned or did the Duke actually flip her?”

Caelin paused to answer. “I'm not sure.”

“What do you mean?” Nealin lifted a brow as he walked his brother up to the room.

“She looked happy.”

“Oh? So, what's the plan, now? If she actually likes it here it's going to be a difficult thing to-”

Caelin lifted a hand in a stopping gesture. “The 'plan' is to leave her out of any plans. I never thought someone like her could look like that, or get along with others to such an extent. I always considered myself her only lifeline. I read her wrong somehow; I thought she felt the same way but something changed. Now that she's actually found something here that makes her happy. Seeing her tonight made me realize that I was never her lifeline. I was never enough of anything because it was always possible for her to make such a face and as much as I tried I was not someone who could do it.” He smiled sadly.

“We can't just give up on it if she's working with Castezin wholeheartedly. She knows some things-”

“We can.”

“But-”

“What the hell is any of this for!?” Caelin raised his voice and snapped at his brother, grabbing his collar with both hands.
“If I can't treat someone who saved my life properly, what is any of this for? Castezin and Ayla are separate issues and I want you to remove Ayla from your mind. Focus only on what's in front of us. Got it?” Caelin let Nealin go.

“Fine...” Nealin looked at Caelin awkwardly. He changed the subject.
“The guest is awake.”

“What are we waiting for.” Caelin and Nealin diverted to the spare room. They had the whole top floor to themselves including the large VIP room and two rooms for servants. One of those served as Nealin's room and that was where the guest was resting for her wounds.

“You are lucky I am so multi-faceted, Brother.” Nealin winked.
“She would have died if I did not know a bit of medicine.”

“Why are you pleading your usefulness to me at this point.” Caelin asked rhetorically while sneering. The previous conversation and the nights events had put him in a sour mood. Bad for the guest. He opened the door to see Haron sitting up in bed. She smiled as the two brothers entered.

“Greetings to Your-”

“Cut the pleasantries. We can gather that you are an enemy of the Empire, Haron of the Moon Tower.”

“Not the Empire, but certainly of your enemy, Your Highness.” Haron inferred. Her voice was still small and weak.

“Is the enemy of my enemy my friend? How about when they are trying to kill my enemy for the wrong reasons? Working with monsters... It's just so, so damning. To top it all off I have no idea if this thing is not bigger than you and those other two.” Caelin sat on the side of the bed.

“To put it lightly, this plan is cooked. Completely. I actually have no other cards to play. My Patron is dead and gone and I am therefore just a normal person. You can feel free to assume me an enemy and return me to your father for points.” Haron cocked her head to one side.
“However... I will tell you the same thing I told the Duke. I have no real grudge against the Empire.”

“Nonsense. The Empire stole all of your potential away. You were a legend of the Twelfth Ring. Why do any of this if it is not for revenge?”

“Oh my.” She held her wound, making a pained expression as she let out a little chuckle.

“It seems you've figured it all out, your Highness.”

“You have every reason under Sol to want to get revenge. You are a Selene... You were a Master of the dismantled Moon Tower. You were silenced.” Caelin grinned and spoke tauntingly.
“I killed you companion quite painfully.”

“He's not dead.” She claimed. She showed so little emotion that Caelin could conclude she was very much like someone he knew, or she was not lying.

Caelin looked at her. “Fine. He's not dead.”

“Anyway... What is it? Do you want to kill me or do you want to make use of me? If you do not believe me then you should have just killed me.”

“I simply can not wrap my head around why someone like you would have no ill feelings towards the empire.”

“It is very simple. You see it that way, but I do not. I have no malice for the Empire, the Emperor. Not even you, First Prince.” She smiled gently and offered a nod.
“No... I have my reasons, of course. The honest truth is, I wanted to weaken Castezin. You can test me on whether I'm lying.”

“Why?”

She shook her head. “You'll have to just kill me if you need to know that much.”

Caelin stared at her. She was being serious. She was not lying. That was the sense he got. “You want me to make use of you? What does a silenced Aurar have to offer.” He turned to Nealin before he could say anything intellectual.
“Shut up.”

Haron looked between the two brothers. “I have a story from long, long ago that can be told in many different ways.”

“A story?”

“A story.” She repeated, closing her eyes.

“Go on then.” Caelin made a rolling motion with his hand, and spoke in a placating tone.
“It had better be a good story.”

She looked like she was very pleased with herself as she said. “Ironically, this one can be told in a single night. Have you ever heard the name Scheherezade?”

“No.” Caelin looked to Nealin who also shrugged.

“In the lands that made up the Old Kingdom of Castezin long, long ago before even the Empire and the first Hero and the first Chapel, there was a practice. All of the Kings of Castezin would sacrifice virgin girls to Night on an alter each New Moon.”

“Barbarians. We know that Castezin is descended from barbarians.” Caelin commented.

“To that extent though?” Nealin rubbed his chin.
“We could play it up.”

“I am not finished, boys!” Haron wagged her finger. The brothers traded a smile and let her continue.

“Before the New Moon one important month the King of Castezin was met by a woman. A young lady by the name of Scheherezade. She was thought to be a commoner by the court. The woman claimed that if she were sacrificed upon the altar she would be the last sacrifice that the Kingdom would ever need to give. She was so confident and the King had no reason to refuse her. She was confirmed to be a virgin, and even if she was not the last, she would still serve as a sacrifice.”

“On the New Moon Scheherezade was placed upon the altar to Night and like many other girls before her she was put to what should have been an eternal sleep as the Sun set. However the girl had something that the King was unaware of. Scheherezade had the Shape of Dreams. She had heard the method of sacrifice involving the slumber and death of a young woman and came up with a plan.”

“As she slept on the first night she saw something that only the sacrifices had witnessed and never lived to tell about. A land of Night shrouded in gray light that showed everything is if it were day, but held no warmth. An ancient, shattered city and white ash falling like rain. Within that space was the presence of Night as a great, horrible creature. It was a nightmare. Rather than await her fate Scheherzade wove a dream within the dream-like realm. The story that appeared in her mind at night was a fairy-tale come to life. Even Night, who had looked upon the girl like prey, had to suddenly show interest in the show that was being put on for him because it was the first and only one he had every seen from such a perspective. With the power of dreams even he was able to live in the story she wove, not as a creature but as a man. The story went on until sunrise without end. Night was furious and demanded she finish it. However... The Sun had risen already and Night was powerless to take her life.”

“Scheherezade cleverly claimed that she had no intention of leaving or escaping at all in order to calm Night. She swore that on the next night she would sleep on the altar as she had the night before and weave an ending for the dream that he would find satisfying. When that end to the story came, she wove that end into another tale that lasted the whole night without ending once again. Each night she placated Night in such a way and gradually grew close to the creature.”

“How long could that last?” Caelin wondered out loud.

“One-thousand and One nights.” She offered with a smile. The brothers both looked stunned.
“In those three years time, Scheherezad fulfilled her promise to Castezin. She was the last sacrifice they made. Each month they returned to the altar to see she was still sleeping there peacefully. They dared not move her. She had become their confidant to Night and their savior from it. She shared his secrets, his follies, his rare regrets and triumphs and... Finally his love. She had essentially become a Consort to Night. In those many nights she bore three children from Night directly. Those children became heirs to the Shape of Knight; the first Vampires. But, Scheherezade was not without change herself. Her body and womb had to be warped by Night to even conceive such children. Her status as the Mother of all monsters and the eternal partner to Night was confirmed on the last night, where she stood by his side without needing to placate him, for she had become a part of him. It is said that even among the three terrors she birthed, the fourth, the one she became herself was in fact the worst. The first and the prime demonic entity.”

“Castezin as the land that birthed demons and vampires? A cute story, but how does this fairy-tale help us?” Caelin complained.

“Oh... I just thought it's such an interesting thing that Almos Castezin has the Shape of Dreams.” She offered flippantly.

“W-what?” Caelin's eyes went wide.

“THAT is his Shape?” Nealin commented, rushing over to look over his notes in order to confirm. He lifted his head from his notebook to ask gullibly.
“Then... Is he a real Vampire? One of her descendants?”

Haron laughed. “You get too caught up in stories, my dear. It is not a fact but a strategy. It is a fact that Scheherezade was from Castezin. A fact that she was a figure with a complicated story that is told in different ways depending on the location it is being told in. It is a fact that she had the Shape of Dream. Castezin shares it. It can be a story that creates justification, despite having no bearing or evidence. You know this, Your Highness. It is a good move. You have already been spreading the rumors that he was a vampire and this just adds to that tactic. You, see, I can be quite useful and I have no problem hitching myself to you and your plans. We align decently well, even though I can not say why.”

“It's mad that I actually believe you. Something in your eyes and the way you speak. I know you are telling the truth but the fact that you can not give me a good reason behind your statements bothers me to no end, my Lady.” Caelin was thinking out loud at her. Eventually he reluctantly shrugged and offered her his hand.
“What about this Shape of his? He has it, so it can be said that he is the main candidate to be descended from this woman.”

She took it with a grin. “The Shape of Dream is actually something that is held by at least four established families across the Empire, and more if you count other Kingdoms and territories. It is a shape that is neither common nor uncommon. But-”

“If people are made aware of the story, and the fact of Almos Castezin's Shape, who's to say that he is not a descendant of that Scheherezade? It's a matter of public interest to find out, on our end and it is also a matter that can easily be decided by public opinion before he gets a chance to dispel those rumors.”

“Exactly.” Haron clapped proudly.
“Well done, Your Highness!”

“I think that we may be able to make use of you.” Caelin admitted.

“I would be honored to become your servant.” She claimed.

Chapter 28

Ayla considered returning to her dorm to rest, but something drew her to the training grounds behind the manor. Near the Aura Dummy, under the light of the waning moon she saw the Duke in regular clothing with just his sword harnessed to his hip. He seemed to be waiting for her as he turned the moment she appeared. Behind her, the sounds of some revelry was still alive and only slowly dying as the night grew longer.
“What a surprise.” He remarked.

Ayla cocked her head to one side. “Is it?” He did not answer. He stood looking at the dummy. She walked casually towards him, though something about the way he stood in the moonlight gave her goosebumps. A foreboding sense, for someone who's senses were so developed and accurate. Ayla was a little tipsy, so she asked something she avoided asking before.
“How did you do it?”

“Do what?” He was still looking at the dummy, hand resting idly on his sheathed sword.
“Beat your score?”

“No. How did you kill Reus? He was an animal, but he was still a God. You aren't even wounded. That woman...” Ayla was still very hesitant to call her mother for various reasons.
“She said that her concoction made them immune to your shape, somehow. Whatever it is. So it's not even that.”

The Duke took the conversation down an interesting turn. He avoided the question and deflected by asking her to answer it with her own impression.

“Is it completely irrational by your perception? What are your thoughts on how I did it?”

Ayla had of course thought about it. More-over, he knew that he was trying to draw out her thoughts on it before he said anything. It was suspicious.

“I think I know. I know your secret. Nothing made sense, and then it hit me.” His eyes shut in preparation. She continued.
“That painting and your unexplained power... You are too skilled to be a mortal.”

He stared at her impatiently. “Just come out and say what you want to say.”

Ayla nodded. “You've undergone Soma Realization, haven't you?”

Almos lifted a brow. “You think so?” Even in that moment he held his cards close to his chest.
“Moreover, how do you know about Soma Realization?”Ayla did realize it was quite revealing to admit she knew, but it was the only explanation she could think of.
“You could just be saying words that you do not know the meaning of, on one hand. On the other... You may be quite a dangerous person with strong backing.”

“I am dangerous, but not to you. I just know.” Soma Realization was the process of surpassing the natural potential and limitations of Soma within the body. A normal body would slowly face diminishing returns when it came to expanding Soma. It was different for everyone. However, even in extraordinary individuals there was a barrier that could not be crossed through common knowledge and techniques. Soma Realization involved the replacement of the mortal body with one that was pure. Every cell and every drop of blood, all of it in every part was not just filled with Soma, but would become it. Those who could do such a thing could be counted on one hand in the Empire in her past life. They were the most closely guarded secret in any land they belonged to; treasures. Ayla knew roughly from Caelin in her past life that at every point in history where Kingdoms surrendered or lands changed hands inexplicably it was because of a Grand Master that had gone through Soma Realization. Any small, seemingly insignificant land that was free from the Empire's grasp without explanation had done so through the leverage of a Transcended Master that just happened to have bare some loyalty to that land's government.

He became serious. “That is not something you can just know, Ayla. If you know anything you should know that. Technically, as the blood of the Imperial family I am obliged to kill you, now for divulging the status of such individuals.”

She had predicted this and found an answer. “You're right. The truth is... ” She was not aware of the consequences that would come about from revealing the little bit of privileged information she had but she had to hope that it would remain a secret that only they shared. She trusted him enough to believe it would.

“Go on.” The Duke urged.

“My teacher, The Serpent, is a Grand Master.”

His eyes shot wide open. She could tell from his expression that bets were off. The Duke that seemed invincible to her was slightly shaken and drew on her. He closed the distance in an instance, holding his blade a millimeter from her neck. Ayla had already lifted her chin and raised her hands.
“You-”

“You're thinking that you knew everything about me, but that fact that she's a Grand Master throws it out of wack. Anything is possible after hearing that so you're wondering if I work for her. The truth is I don't. None of us do. We're called 'Serpents' because we're students of hers but basically none of us follow her. At least...” Ayla tried to think.
“Dancing-Blade Kasim, Jaghal of the Current, Winged Sword Mackzim Reese and The Winding Path Sword-Maiden Naithe. To my knowledge, all of them remain independent despite being taught by the Serpent. Then there is of course me. If you believe me, that is.”

The Duke's pupils were moving subtly as he processed the information. After a few moments he sheathed his sword.
“Mackzim Reese is not yet the Winged Sword, Ayla.”

“Ah...” She gulped, lowering her head. Almos sighed, reaching up to run his hand through his smooth, dark hair. She looked up cautiously.
“Do you want to know, now?”

“Since we are sharing secrets, go ahead. I feel like I must give you less leeway, even if you are being so earnest with me.”

“I understand, your Grace. It's the Shape of the New Moon. That's mine.”

He reached up to touch his lip, nodding. “I see. That is... Yes. That makes sense.”

She was surprised to find he could makes sense of it with just that. Then there was the information about the Serpent that shocked him. He was not omnipotent. Still, she did not feel like lying or omitting the truth around him in that moment.
“I from a little under a month earlier... I lived for ten years into the future.” Light filled his golden eyes and an excited smile crept over his lips as Ayla said that. It was an expression she never saw him make. Hungry and pleased.

“Is this true? It was not just premonition...” He muttered to himself.

“No. Why would that be the case?”

“Sometimes visions can appear to average people as prophecy. They'll feel as real as if you lived them. But they are always incomplete. A complete vision of the future is exceptional, to say the least.” He stopped short of saying anything else that was too revealing.

“No. It was real. Not premonition.” She said with certainty.

“That woman claimed to be my mother. Unfortunately I believe her.” Ayla stated.
“The New Moon, according to her, has the power to return me to a point of regret after dying. For myself ten years from now, that point was before I set out on my path as a Holy Knight. I... Had many regrets. The end of my life was bleak for Castezin, I am not going to lie... You were a Vampire, the last one we hunted. Castezin was dismantled by Caelin... I did bad things.” Ayla looked up with a determined expression.

“But I want to help, now.”

He offered her his hand. “With your power you can do much more than just help. You can see Castezin thrive. Ayla... If this is true you know the future. The shape of markets, politics and wars. All stretching out to ten whole years! Most complex plans take shape in a quarter of that time and we have a head start on all of it. You-” He swallowed with subtle excitement, all but licking his chops like a starving beast.
“If you offer your knowledge to me we can definitely save Castezin.”

“Uhm...”

“What is it? Is it a moral concern about changing the future?”

“The truth is, My Grace...” Ayla blushed and trailed off shamefully.

“What?”

“In my entire life I never handled my own money. Someone else invested it for me and I have no idea about markets or profits or anything like that. I don't even really know how to spend money so I just save it to buy what I need whenever I need it. In terms of politics, I have absolutely no clue about any of that. I was the Knight-Commander of the Holy Knight's Order but I basically never made a single political decision. Caelin and Nealin did all that for me.”

“You have such a knowledge of names and places...”

“Yeah that's just the stuff I know.” She shrugged.
“People I either fought, killed or fought with. Places I went to fight over or kill in. I was a glorified hired muscle so I have no important knowledge whatsoever.” She admitted shamefully.

The Duke could not even bring himself to laugh at how ridiculous it was. He was at a loss for words. Finally he asked.
“Is there... Anything?”

“Soon there will be a horde that spills out from Orcitanaea from the plains. There's also a mountain pass that is prepared by them. This is preceded by goblins infiltrating the northern woods and becoming an incredibly annoying distraction within Castezin before the real war begins. Also, Caelin is actively trying to take Castezin's plains and destroy you.”

“I knew that last part... The news of orcs is very surprising, however. This is not an easy thing to deal with. Completely unexpected as well. No orc tribe has the ability to fight on even ground with us. Yet.”

“In the past, the initial signs showed themselves to you and came as a surprise. You mobilized your forces, but without the evidence of a horde to present to the Emperor immediately they feigned ignorance by claiming that Castezin did not have the strength to deal with a small orc tribe. Your full mobilization in response to the invasion was seen as raising levies in preparation for a revolt and therefore Caelin was able to sack your plains Marches in 'retaliation.' They had to help as soon as the actual threat was evident to the masses, but by that time The Duchy had already been weakened significantly.”

“This time around we will collect plenty of evidence leading up to that event.” He looked upon her with a bright smile.
“I apologize... I was disappointed, I admit. However, if all you give me is that piece of information and your service so far, you are more than worthy as a Knight of Castezin.”

“One more thing...”

“Yes?”

“At some point you did become a Vampire, Your Grace.” It pained her to say it.
“I don't know when but-”

“How can you be sure?” He looked at her strangely.

“In the fight I saw your fangs and I saw you weaving Night's Shape and the Shape of Blood, as well. You showed heightened regeneration.”

“I see... How did you defeat me, then? A Grand Master and a Vampire... Surely that would be impossible.” He purposefully let his status as a Grand Master slip through that sentence.

“Here is how the fight went.” She stopped to gather her thoughts and remember the events. The Duke listened intently.

“We confronted you. There was a short exchange where Nealin and I were pushed back despite our protection wards. That is where Blood and Night were used and I saw you bare your fangs angrily. Then...” Ayla looked at him.
“Six seconds.”

“What?” He leaned forward, feeling he missed something.

“By my estimation Caelin killed you in six seconds with his Shape.”

Almos was stunned. “What Shape? What form of Sol does Caelin have?”

“I've seen it once before though. When Caelin uses his shape he's surrounded by brightness for fifty yards all around him for 6 seconds. You can't even look into it when it's being used so it's hard to tell but all that is ever left behind is ash and fire and glass. Even metal is melted within. In my experience, if you are within fifty yards of Caelin and he decides to use his shape you will just die.”

The Duke was troubled to say the least. “I see. Thank you, Ayla.” He turned back towards the dummy.
“How about another try?”

She looked very bashful. “I... Am still getting used to this sword.”

“I doubt it will be a hindrance. I would like to see what you can do.” He offered brightly.

“Very well.” To be frank, she wanted to, but was slightly self-conscious in front of someone she knew was a Grand Master. She got a sense that he was trying to mentor her, but she had no more desire to be taught at the moment. Ayla squared up to the dummy, drew her sword the way she practices and slapped the first target to start the challenge.

The first ten were easy and she expected it to become faster, like before. As she slapped five more while easily moving around, ducking and jumping the long arms she realized quickly that it was getting faster, but she was as well. Her senses felt like they had ignited in response to each movement. She was aware of the subtle shake of the arms before they even began their swing. Twenty. Thirty. Forty. She became lost in it, smiling widely. As she rounded fifty she stepped back and looked at the amused Duke. He was standing, watching with his arms crossed.

“What is it?”

“Too easy. I can't get hit. It's not a challenge.”

“The speed plateaus out after a certain point. Once you've hit forty you have basically done it. The rest is just endurance.”

“That's right.”

“I'll ask Aneth to tune it up more to our standards.”

“Our...” Ayla blinked.

“Are you shocked? You are the strongest individual in this Duchy aside from Rast and myself. Though, Rast can not complete this challenge at all and would only freeze it, saying that it is pointless. 'I can now hit it as many times as I want.' He says.”

Ayla chuckled genuinely. “That's a good one. He's right, though. This thing is really only made for people with our Alignment to challenge ourselves.”

“How was it for you?” The Duke asked curiously.

She instantly knew what he was referring to. “Hard. I have a high pain tolerance, my teacher said. I honestly thought I was going to die.”

“Oh, I know that feeling. I had to take breaks between sessions, even if it was inefficient.”

Ayla sighed. “She only gave me one shot, so I had to establish the base and some pathways in my head in one go. If I passed out she said she wouldn't be there when I woke up.” She shrugged.
“So I didn't pass out.”

“What a crazy woman...”

“You're telling me. I was ten. To you it may seem like she taught a kid so irresponsibly, but to me it was the greatest thing that ever happened to me.” She closed her eyes.
“I went from some urchin to somebody. I was my teacher's student after that and a shameful thing like me became proud and suddenly had a future.”

He tried to think of what to say. “It is hard to imagine you as an urchin.”

“I was a terror. My teacher found me because I would mug grown men with a big stick. I had most of the neighborhood kids paying up to me because I was ruthless enough to fight adults that tried to chase ..them.”

“I imagine you had to curb that after you gained a formal teacher.”

Ayla shook her head. “Not really. I just got better at it. She didn't care. The Serpent was always very adamant that I could do whatever I wanted with the skills she taught me. I could become a criminal or a mercenary or a Knight if I wanted to and she wouldn't say a thing about it.”

“You decided to become a Knight.”

“Because I witnessed most of the people like me would eventually get caught. I'm not a smart criminal so I thought I would work for the Empire instead since the pay was theoretically good wherever I went.”

“You know... When you describe your life like that without any context it makes you seem like a villain.”

“I see.” Ayla could immediately see what he was talking about.

“Relax. So long as you're 'my' villain I'll tolerate it.” He said half-jokingly.

“Right.” She avoided his gaze.

The Duke felt like their talk had run it's course. “Get some sleep.”

She saluted. “Yes, Your Grace.”

“Oh, Dame.” He asked.

She stopped. “Yes?”

“Do you like dreaming?”

She thought about it for a moment. “Not particularly. I'd rather just go to sleep and wake up.”

The Duke smiled. “I see. Good to know.”

She left.

Chapter 29

Ayla returned to the barracks. It was dark and far more quiet than usual. Many of the Knights that would usually be in their rooms were out at the camp and would likely be there right through to the morning. Ayla, on the other hand, had no desire to sleep in a campaign tent recreationally. As she was about to open the door to the Barracks she stopped and looked around. She did a full turn to check her surroundings, then slowly returned to face the door. She fully jumped as to her right a woman in a red dress with fiery red hair appeared seemingly out of thin air. She smiled wide with full, bright red lips. Ayla looked at the woman strangely. She was not used to being startled at all with her senses. Once that feeling of shock passed she recognized the woman as one of the Nobles from the banquet that the Duke was speaking to when Ayla lead him away. Ayla sighed and stepped back from the door to hold out her hand. The woman looked down at it curiously.
“Are you lost, My Lady?”

The woman cocked her head to one side like a confounded animal before taking the hand gratefully. “Yes! Thank you so much, Dame.” She gushed, getting far too close for comfort. The woman latched on to Ayla's arm, curling her own pale, bare arm around it as if Ayla was an escort.

“Surely you could've asked any other guard for help? There's no real shortage.”

“I would never want to be seen with a man alone so late at night.”

Ayla's shoulders slumped. “Ah... I suppose.” To Ayla it was a stupid reason, but it made perfect sense if it was a Noble woman giving it.
“I understand, My Lady. Where should I bring you? Back to the front of the manor?” She assumed many of the guests had left by now.

“Please, call me Camellia. “ She gave a small curtsy with the one free hand she had, since her other was gripping Ayla's arm like a vice.
“Baroness Camellia Bornemisza. What is your name?”

“I am Dame Ayla. No last name.”

“A commoner!” She covered her mouth with her hand and giggled churlishly.
“How intriguing.”

Ayla was becoming annoyed, but did not show it even a bit. “Where shall I take you, Baroness Borne-”

“Camellia.” The woman corrected, wagging her finger.

Ayla closed her eyes for a moment, took a breath, then opened them and nodded. “Baroness Camellia.”

“Well... That will do, I suppose.” She said with some disappointment. Camellia looked deeply into Ayla's eyes with her own bright green orbs and said very forwardly.
“I have a room at the top floor of the town's finest in reserved for me year-round. Or so I thought... I am bored and a little angry. I would like to be taken to your room instead.”

Ayla's mouth fell open at the request, but she could only feel a bit strange about it, because she nodded and opened the door to the barracks, leading the Lady inside and down the hall towards her room. The thought only struck her after a few moments of dazed, automated movements towards the destination.
“Why... Do you want to go to my room?”

“Oh my. Such a strong will to even ask such a thing after my 'request.'” Camellia complimented, clinging to Ayla far tighter than before.

“I'm interested in you, obviously. Go on, go on.” The Lady urged Ayla forward. She reluctantly stood in front of her room and hesitated to open the door. Ayla was sweating and exerting herself almost as much to resist her own body as she was when she fought the Shokujin.

“O. Pen. Saysame.” Camellia said playfully.

Ayla's hand was urged around the knob, turning it slowly. Finally, once the room was open she stepped through and stopped once she was on the other side of the door-frame.

Camellia stood on the other side smiling like a demon. “Now. Kindly invite me inside, Dame Ayla.”

Ayla's eyes moved to the door. She could not move herself in such a way as to close it and it took so much just to drag her eyes from those of the Baroness before she was drawn back in.  Ayla gulped. She spoke through no desire of her own to do so. She fought against the words and failed.
“Pl... ease. Come... In, Baroness.” Ayla felt dizzy. She stepped back and sat down on the bed neatly with her hands in her lap.

Camellia tested the opening with her hand as if expecting some barrier or ward before happily strolling inside. The door shut behind her automatically.
“Rules are important. Rules make us stronger, even though they weaken us.” She mused, looking somewhat disappointed by the barren room.
“Really? No nick-knacks or mementos?”

“I just sleep here.” Ayla retorted. With some effort she asked after that.
“What are you?”

Camellia looked hurt. “I am your best friend. Trusted confidant. Shoulder to cry on. Your very own Baroness Camellia Bornemisza.” She smiled coyly.
“Don't you remember?”

Ayla felt incredibly dizzy and tired. She fell back onto her bed, her eyes moving as if they were in an REM cycle while awake. When she was pulled back up by Camellia's delicate hand with it's red-painted nails, her head hurt a lot but thankfully the Baroness was there with a glass of water, as a true friend would be.
“Thank you.” Ayla said comfortably, drinking it without noticing the subtle wisp of red swirling within.

Camellia looked upon her smugly. “What else are friends for, Ayla?”