The Archipelago

The Confrontation in the Middle Lands

Scene 1: The Meeting Room

The grand meeting room of the Middle Lands' palace was an expansive space adorned with intricate gold inlays and towering marble columns. The room exuded an aura of authority and power, fitting for the Seven Wise Men who ruled this domain. The atmosphere was thick with tension as Alesia, David, and the Seven Wise Men gathered for their crucial discussion.

Alesia and David entered the room, their imposing presence drawing the eyes of the Seven Wise Men. The contrast between Alesia's dark, regal attire and the palace's radiant decor was striking, emphasizing her role as a force to be reckoned with.

Scene 2: The Seven Wise Men's Inquiry

Sir Kael, the leader of the Seven Wise Men, looked at David with a mix of curiosity and suspicion.

Sir Kael: "Lady Alesia, we are intrigued by your decision to keep Prince David alive. What purpose does it serve to retain him as a captive?"

Alesia: (calmly) "I kept him alive for a reason. By doing so, I ensured that the East would remain unstable without breaking the rule of engagement. His presence has allowed me to maintain a balance of power while secretly bolstering my own position."

Dame Mirelle: (leaning forward) "And what of the experiments you've conducted on his blood?"

Alesia: "I have successfully duplicated his blood's properties. Now, all the weapons in my kingdom are infused with the poison that affects only those without the antidote. This antidote is exclusive to me."

The Seven Wise Men exchanged glances of surprise and concern, their expressions reflecting a mix of admiration for Alesia's cunning and unease at the implications.

Lord Aelin: "You have used his condition to your advantage. But why did you not proceed with more direct action against the East?"

Alesia: "I required time to ensure my position was unassailable. The East was destabilized by keeping David alive, but I needed to strengthen my own forces and position before taking further action."

Scene 3: David's Defense

Sir Fenwick turned his attention to David, his gaze probing.

Sir Fenwick: "Prince David, why have you not taken measures to protect your kingdom from these threats?"

David, weak and visibly strained from the poison still coursing through his veins, spoke with a tone of resignation.

David: "I was taken captive by Lady Alesia and kept in chains, subjected to the poison that courses through my blood. My efforts to resist were limited by my condition. I am still recovering from the effects of the poison."

Dame Valeria: (nodding) "So, you were incapacitated, and your condition has hindered your ability to act."

Alesia: "Precisely. The poison was designed to ensure his helplessness while also allowing me to execute my strategies without direct confrontation."

Scene 4: The Seven Wise Men's Reaction

The Seven Wise Men were now faced with a complex situation. They had to balance their need to assert authority with the understanding of Alesia's strategic maneuvers.

Sir Kael: "Your tactics are indeed elaborate, Lady Alesia. However, your manipulation of Prince David's condition raises questions about the broader implications for the balance of power."