The PulseTeam, Book Two: Evolution

Chapter Eighteen: Forming Alliances, Part Two

Part One: Lady Alaesa Talandren

The StealthOps House | Sylvanoria, Elf Territory
Wednesday, November 2, 2034 | 06:00 EST

Soon after the demons attacked, I quickly figured out that the only reason that the demons were attacking out in the open to begin with was to forestall the signing of the treaty between the elves and faeries. After we outsmarted the demons long enough for the document to be signed, and King Silvyr and Queen Halanaestra finally signed the alliance treaty with Queen Yggdrali, the demons retreated and we got ourselves some much-needed, well-earned rest. We slept, lounged around, and enjoyed each other's company for the remainder of the day.

Today, we're up bright and early to do the same thing with the faunids that we did with the faeries. Hopefully all goes smoothly, and we're able to convince the faunids to join us without having to prove ourselves to their leader through battle.

The Throne Room | Raena Caelora, Elf Territory
Wednesday, November 2, 2034 | 06:15 EST

Forty-five minutes before we're scheduled to be at the elf/faunid border, we are at an impromptu ceremony held in the throne room, elevating Alaesa to the rank and file of Lady of Sylvanoria. Essentially, she's got Nabalian's old job, and in so doing, is making history as the very first Dark Elf noble in the kingdom. All the royal court, and the lords and ladies of the Seven Elven Realms are present to make the whole thing official and legal. And what's more, is the reality manipulation knowledge, abilities, and energies that had been taken away from Nabalian were given directly to Alaesa, further cementing the whole ceremony.

King Silvyr and Queen Halanaestra say that they will have the proper ceremony and celebrations at sunset this evening, but that in order for Alura's chosen envoy companion to have any authority to do much of anything, anywhere, she needs to have a recognizable nobility status and the proper paperwork has to be in order.

"We will take care of the paperwork," says Queen Halanaestra, "and of course, arrange the whole ordeal, but for now, just go with them and try not to say much of anything, at least until this evening. That is when everything will be finalized."

"Of course, Your Majesty," says Alaesa, bowing and turning to walk away.

"Wait, Alaesa," says Alura.

"Yes?" she asks, turning back around to face the princess.

"Something is wrong. I would have thought you to be overjoyed to get this position. But it does not seem that you even want it. Why?"

"I don't think I am qualified for this position. I mean, Lady Alaesa Talandren? Come on, Alura. I don't think I would fit in quite well with the other ladies and lords. Do you?"

"But that is precisely why I hand-picked you for this!"

"What do you mean?"

"After Nabalian got ejected from the lordship, Mother and Father were trying to find a suitable replacement for the Sylvanorian nobility, but they were having some... difficulties with that. Last night, they asked me who I would recommend for the nobility, and I chose you."

"But, why?"

Alura sighs, saying, "We have both seen what was happening to Sylvanoria under Nabalian's drunken rule. And we have always wanted to make some changes. As princess, I cannot just focus on Sylvanoria, or the people will think I am giving preferential treatment to the town where I was raised. However, as a lady, you will have the power to make all kinds of changes to Sylvanoria for the better, and enforce them. You have a talent for leadership that I never had, and you are so impartial. I am actually rather jealous of you for it. Alaesa, you can be the beacon that we both know Sylvanoria needs!"