Sahara

The Desires of Old: The Self-Interest of Doom

The door to the Aveksono's chamber creaked open as I entered, and the murmur of conversation ceased. Seven figures, seated around a long table, rose in unison. They were the trusted advisors and protectors of the Emperor, the very essence of the Empire's political and military might. My father stood behind the high chair of the Emperor, a silhouette of authority and grace. The Aveksono and a couple of the Adalons—his elite guards—bowed deeply as I stepped into the room.

I met their bows with a nod, acknowledging their respect while hiding the smirk that always threatened to break free when I was the center of attention.

"Father," I greeted him, my tone a mixture of respect and casual ease. "I trust you've been keeping the council entertained with tales of my exploits?"

"Princess Finrah," one of the Aveksono, a man with a grizzled beard and a sharp gaze, spoke up. "We were just discussing the events of last night."

"Indeed?" I replied, "I hope my actions did not cause undue distress."

"Quite the contrary," my father said, his voice carrying the weight of both concern and approval.

I gave a wry smile. "I'm sure the tales are more embellished than reality. After all, I only did what was necessary."

He gave a wry smile, a rare flicker of warmth in his otherwise stoic demeanor. "We've been discussing last night's events. The Hrothgarian camp and the prisoner. You've missed quite a lively debate."

"I'm sure," I replied, making my way to an empty chair at the far end of the table. "But let's not dwell on the excitement I've missed. I'm here now. And, as you know, I have my own version of the tale."

"You have done well. Though I must admit, I would have preferred to be informed sooner." He gave me a look that was half relieved, half stern.

I inclined my head in respect. "My apologies, Father. The situation was delicate, and I wanted to ensure it was handled with the utmost efficiency before involving you."

The Emperor's eyes, deep pools of wisdom and care, softened slightly. "We are well aware of your capabilities, my daughter. It is not your skill we question but rather your discretion."

I met his gaze with a firm nod. "I assure you, my choices were made with the best interest of the Empire at heart." 

The Aveksono exchanged glances, their attention now focused on the details of the previous night's skirmish. One of them, a woman with an air of quiet strength, began recounting the report. "The five scouts we encountered were of some concern. We were able to neutralize them swiftly, but their presence suggests a deeper intent."

I took over, recounting the events with precision. "As soon as I arrived, I counted five scouts attempting to breach the Avazi'pat. I dealt with them decisively. Two were engulfed by the sand, two more were struck down swiftly, and the last was captured."

One of the Aveksono, an elderly man with a thin mustache and an air of perpetual judgment, leaned forward. "A scout?"

I met his gaze with a cold smile. "We captured one scout alive. He revealed that their camp holds about fifty men, all gathered to find weaknesses in our defenses. I interrogated him myself."

"He was a scout sent to find weaknesses in Avazi'pat," I continued. "He mentioned their camp is a few miles west of here, housing approximately fifty men. They were merely scouting for vulnerabilities."

Another Aveksono, a woman with sharp eyes and an air of practiced detachment, interjected. "And you managed to extract all relevant information?"

"Indeed," I replied, with a hint of satisfaction. "He told us everything he knew. As for the rest of the camp, we left nothing of value behind. They'll think twice before encroaching again."