Maji Born

25 - The Queen's Assembly

The Duke's estate was a lively place that evening. The group was able to put their attack behind them as they focused on more frivolous things. Zehara's personal contacts were beginning to arrive, dressed in all manners of finery.

There was a total of twelve additional people. They talked excitedly amongst themselves in small clusters within the front foyer. It had been transformed. The maids had set the long dining table with cream linen and contrasting gold embroidered napkins.

The table was laid with an assortment of appetizers, including thin-sliced cured meats and cheeses, a bowl of purple olives, grown in Tupre, and a selection of fruit.

Zehara stood and tapped her knife against her glass. Her audience fell silent in anticipation of her words.

"Comrades! Thank you for joining me at such short notice for this gathering. As you all know we have been working tirelessly for the past few years, growing support, and planning for my eventual return to Midais as the rightful Queen. The time has come for action! We will be beginning our campaign for Midais." She paused and a cheer broke out. 

Zehara raised a hand and continued, "Tomorrow I will approach the council for military and financial support." She turned to a man on her near right. "Lesaron are we prepared in Midais?" Lesaron stood and bowed, turning to address the group.

"We are my Queen, I have spies within the port who have been monitoring the goings-on. Your royal escort is being formed as we speak and will be ready for our arrival. I have also spread rumours of the king's treason and your existence among the people. If all goes well we should have their support." He said with another small bow. He sat once more, running a finger over his moustache as he did so.

Zehara nodded.

"This is welcome news. Oricha are your ladies prepared?" She asked.

One of the woman at the far end of the table stood and addressed the group, "we are my lady. They have spent months polishing their skills and are eager to fight alongside you." Oricha sat once more.

Devarak thought she looked familiar though he wasn't entirely certain of where he knew her from.

As he studied her long black wavy hair and painted rouged lips, it clicked. She was Oricha Blossom. She ran Scorpiris, one of Zedar's major spy guilds. Known for its skilled consorts and courtesans among the upper class. In the underworld, they were known for their prowess with poison and deceptive charm.

Zehara's voice cut into Devarak's.

"Wonderful. By now you have noticed our newcomers." she gestured to Devarak. He stood up a bit straighter, tearing his gaze away from Oricha.

"A few of you have crossed paths with Devarak. We have him to thank for the retrieval of the Ardaer stone."

Zehara reached into the pouch and carefully lifted the stone out. There was a brief ripple of energy and a gasp from the congregation. A murmur went through the room and enthusiastic clapping.

Zehara continued, "and these are his travelling companions, Lavinia Tazarine," she paused as a murmur went through the room. Lavinia sat stiff-backed, her chin held high, only Zehara noticed the slight quiver of her lips when she inspected her closer.

Lavinia gave a brief dip of her head in acknowledgment of Zehara's words.

"And Eirian Orini. She assisted in their escape from the capital, to which I owe her a great deal." Zehara smiled.

Eirian, who was gowned in green silk, shrugged awkwardly. She glanced around the room before looking down at her napkin with great interest. The faces appraised her for a moment and then swivelled back to Lavinia.