City of Accia

Suggested Audio Medieval Market

The next morning dawns and billowing clouds meander across the sky at a steady pace. Beams of sunlight break occasionally onto the valley as they approach their destination. A sprawling village wraps itself around a tiered city, partitioned by stark stone walls. A river runs around these walls and through the village, flowing in from the west. The city itself is built into a substantial, rocky hummock, buildings climbing their way up amid craggy outcroppings leading to a flat peak. While the village around it is mostly populated by wooden structures, the city itself seems crafted of stone. While beautiful, Tia feels underwhelmed compared to how Martin and her father had talked about the capital. Sicilia, with its underwater counterpart and grand bridges, was far more impressive to Tia. They pass through the rural village, its streets lined with stalls supplying fruits, vegetables and other foodstuffs. Children scamper by despite the brisk morning air and the vendors have just opened shop. Despite this, by the time they reach the city gates, a crowd has already assembled to glimpse the conspicuous escort.

The gates open almost instantly before them, the town guard easily recognizing General Stahlmann and his unit. As they make their way inside, more wealthy residents line the streets. They look to Tia, her father and the captives trying to ascertain their identities. The inner city seems far older than the village, moss growing between the cracks of buildings and cobblestone streets. These houses are markedly larger and better crafted than the village outside and the people here are dressed in cleaner, more vividly colored clothing. A few among them seem to recognize Allen and he can see the whispers on their lips: Minx. He can't help but frown, the expression growing steadily with each passing whisper. As they climb higher, they pass by a number stores and vendors. The shops of tailors, jewelers, blacksmiths and various other craftsmen or artisans line the road alongside fragrant flowers, offering a welcoming atmosphere as colorful as those who watch with their forms exposed. Tia is astonished, nearly everyone dressed to purposely portray their vivid forms whether these were vibrant markings or more beastial or elemental features. Tia has to actively stop herself from gawking but she is also dazzled by the wild variety. By the time they near the peak, a veritable crowd has trailed after them, hoping to catch a glimpse of General Stahlmann and Duke Minx. Tia feels them appraising and scrutinizing her, finding herself unsure of how she is expected to behave. She attempts to mirror her father's posture and expression, albeit clumsily. They arrive at an empty plaza, leaving the crowd behind. Only one massive building seems to surround the peak with uniform pillars as their primary feature. An older gentleman approaches from under the awning of this building and bows to Allen and then Martin. He speaks to Martin, taking note of at each and member of the party, checking and scribbling away at a notebook he carries. His eye catch on their captives and he fusses about them to the General. After some bickering, the man rushes back under the awning momentarily. Tia notices then that her father is watching her with an expectant and almost giddy expression.

What is it this time? Tia sighs, only prompting further excitement

That's what hasn't changed? Martin huffs and Allen shrugs, his eagerness unwavering

The clouds break above them and her father points above. A massive stony structure looms above them, draped in clouds and blotting out the sky. Tia blinks, her breath caught in her chest, and glances at those around her to confirm this impossibility is real. She finds Euan and the captives also gawking in awe while the soldiers act as if it were as ordinary as the sun itself. The island of stone seems as large as the town below, if not larger, and floats in place as if some grand invisible hand cradles it. Tia looks again to her father and bursts out laughing at his wild grin. This garners an irritable grumble from Martin, who is well beyond ready to finish babysitting. The attendant emerges again and flits back to them holding a staff with linear engravings and a crescent shaped jewel on its top which glows faintly—a syltharian crystal. A retinue of others trail after him and get to work hooking blindfolds onto the horses' bridles. Once they finish, the attendant with the staff nods to Martin and places the it into a small crevasse in the center of the square. Stone railings rise steadily along the edges of the square and fence them in. Once these click into position, the man twists the staff, causing the ground beneath them to rumble. The square begins to rise, levitating into the sky at a steady speed. Tia watches clouds race around the lift, pushed by stark winds, yet the air about them remains totally still.

The kingdom's mages can craft some incredible spells! Allen states, watching his daughter's brows furrow

Still speechless, she simply nods at him. The city below disappears as they pass through a barrier of clouds. Tia looks back as the rest of the world is swallowed up, only small glimpses peeking through. The capital reveals itself as the lift slows, hovering at the edge of a raised platform. This offers a panoramic view of the city of Accia which appears as if it were carved from crystal and ivory stone, accented with gilded silver and gold as if the metals were embroidered into the stonework. It's difficult to observe at first, the reflection overwhelming. Each building is artistically designed, many towering and eccentric. Wide open spaces separate these structures consisting of vast courtyards, plazas and forums while brilliantly colored gardens buffer the harsh whites. At the heart of the city, a distinctly tiered castle appears to be carved from one, seamless pearly stone and is embellished with ethereal crystals. Its towers pierce the sky, tipped by violet gems and silver. Water wells up from some hidden spring within the castle, cascading elegantly from crystalline aquifers before flowing out into the city. The crystals and water alike possess a glow akin to starlight despite the brightness of the architecture. As the lift fits and locks into place, the crescent staff is removed and the railings lower. Those running the lift come forward again to guide the horses down the platform before removing their blinders. A man waits at the base of the walkway. He is speaking with someone as they descend, sending them away before the party arrives. He is an older man with greasy hair and a droopy face. While richly dressed, he is pale enough Tia would believe he was ill and has a morose aura about him despite his fattened body. Martin exhales a sonorous groan upon spotting him.

Floating Ice Castle

Ah, General Martin! Ghislaine greets him, his tone familiar and pleasant despite Martin's stark frown. He doesn't bat an eye at Martin's expression.

Why are you here, Ghislaine? Martin complains, unabashedly sour Shouldn't you be in your dungeon smoking herbs and mumbling nonsense?

His majesty was concerned, General, you're quite late! Ghislaine chuckles and his smile widens, seemingly pleased by Martin's cantankerous reaction. He looks over the rest of the party as if dismissing his colleague. Allen Minx! Ghislaine gasps as if surprised How wonderful to see you! It's been some time hasn't it?

Hello, Ghislaine Allen answers with a drawn out tone, amused by Martin's discomfort but equally displeased to see Ghislaine, despite his polite facade Yes, about twenty years.

Who's th' peely-wally wan? Euan whispers, leaning over to Tia

How would I know? Tia whispers back to him with a shrug

Yer a noble, dinnae all o' ye know each other? Euan questions in a haughty tone. Tia glares at him, earning her another smirk.

I don't know any of them. Tia admits and his eyebrows shoot up I only learned about this... nobility garbage recently.

Lucky Euan scoffs 'Splains a lot though.

And who are your guests? Ghislaine asks, appraising Tia and the captives

One of the reasons we're late Martin grumbles Not that you'd understand how anything works outside the castle. I'm surprised to see you out in daylight!

I never took you as one to give excuses, Martin. Ghislaine chides as if scolding a child

Weel, yer bum's oot the windae ye sleekit tattie! (Well, you're talking nonsense you deceitful/untrustworthy potato!) Euan rails off with a laugh

Martin tries to stifle his laughter but can't contain his mirth, guffawing when Ghislaine narrows his eyes at Euan. Ghislaine finds himself unable to retort, not understanding the insult. Euan wears a smug expression, enjoying his newfound ability to insult people to their faces.

It was an eventful trip, Ghislaine. Allen interjects with a chuckle as Martin settles down Martin was an excellent escort, despite everything that happened. Though I am curious... Allen pops an eyebrow at Martin Is this number three?

Three of what? Martin gives Allen a gruff, bewildered leer

Reasons you didn't want to get married! Allen answers but is met only with skeptical silence Well, the way you two bicker... Allen states matter-of-factly as he gestures between Martin and Ghislaine, offering a grimace I think I can understand your reluctance!

Allen gives Martin an expectant grin, waiting for his joke to sink in. The moment it clicks in Martin's mind he breaks back into bellowing laughter, tears welling in his eyes and his sides cramping. Snickers circulate the whole party—Euan in particular cackles at Ghislaine's pronounced displeasure.

I-I didn't think Martin gasps between laughs A worse match was possible but even my old battle axe is better than this ugly bastard...! Martin hoots, Ghislaine's frown only weighing heavier

Oh, wonderful! Ghislaine complains in a snide tone Allen has aquired a sense of humor now...

I can't imagine him without one! Tia laughs breathily

Ghislaine has grown astounded, directing a disatisfied leer at Tia as she pipes up. Tia looks from Ghislaine to her father, unsure of what she's done to offend him.

Ah! Allen cuts through the tension with a gentle smile, the expression astonishing Ghislaine I haven't introduced you yet. This is Tia, my daughter. Tia, Ghislaine is the king's advisor.

Dear Luxis! Ghislaine gives a startling gasp, appearing dumbfounded Even I never foresaw you having a child, after all was said! Ghislaine gives his first genuine laugh The Dowager is going to be beside herself!

Tia doesn't understand why her father's face drops into a blank, vacant expression, unsure who or what a "dowager" was. Ghislaine's smile widens in some hidden victory and Tia decides then she also doesn't like the man.

Let's get on with this already Martin gives a haggard grumble into the silence You're wasting everyone's day chattering at the edge of the city!

Fine. Ghislaine concedes after an audible tsk We can catch up after you've had some rest, Allen. I'd love to hear all about your exploits. his eyes slide to Tia It was a pleasure, Tia, I hope you enjoy your time in the capital!

Mmhmm. Tia hums, narrowing her eyes at the man and pressing her lips together. Euan snickers and she swats at him.

And Allen, Ghislaine continues, taking note of her response only briefly I will tell his majesty you are on your way. He is anxious for your report.

Of course. Allen sighs through his fatigue I just need to get Tia settled in and clean myself up. I won't be long.

Oh! I've also sent a messenger ahead to your estate so you can be received properly! Ghislaine informs gleefully, garnering a wince from Allen. Allen dismisses the thought and turns to Martin.

Thank you, Martin Allen speaks with a tired but gentle tone I appreciate you getting us home, despite all the rest.

Martin gives a firm nod before speaking to Tia

Good luck, kid. Martin grunts The capital can be exhausting, if your new to it.

He turns his horse before she can respond, heading towards the castle. The other soldiers follow after him, tugging their captives along.

A'll see ye later, moggy! Euan shouts back at her and she blinks, hoping that meant something better than whatever he called Ghislaine.

Ready to go home? Allen asks her but Tia is still dizzy and dazed by her surroundings

Home? We live here? Tia gasps and her father chuckles

They meander through the bright city, catching the eye of a few passerby. Allen's dread grows the closer they get to the manor but Tia is still taking in her surroundings, finding it curious a city this size wasn't bustling with people. Minutes later, they reach the southernmost edge of the city and approach a large manor complex. Tia and Allen can feel the fatigue and exhaustion from their travels begin to culminate as they wait before journey's end. Two men pull open the silver gates while the rest of the staff line up near the grand entrance. They ride around the circular courtyard, rich gardens lining every useable space, and Tia observes a fountain in the center featuring a statue of a strange, winged cat. An old woman waits atop the steps of the manor—Dowager Duchess Evelyn Minx! She is petite but holds herself with confidence and authority, claiming her space with an assertive aura. While her hair is gray, tucked carefully into place, and her face marked by many decades of life, Evelyn has keen yellow eyes. Her feline ears are pointed firmly forward and a pair of chestnut wings manifest quite casually behind her, their color faded with age. She is prim, poised and furious. Her scathing leer is locked onto Allen, pupils narrowed and boring into him. Allen winces when they lock eyes and he tries to brace himself, stiffening despite his fatigue. It isn't until they stop before the steps that Evelyn notices Tia. Evelyn cups her hands over her mouth as tears well in her eyes and her fury flutters away as her eyes follow Tia. Allen avoids eye contact with his mother and focuses instead on helping Tia dismount. Tia squints at the woman, finally noticing her ears and wings, but Evelyn's identity still eludes her. Evelyn drops all formality, rushing down the steps and clasping Tia into a fervent hug, leaving even Allen flabbergasted. Evelyn's magic is a feral, searing wildfire and causes Tia to freeze up, too exhausted and uncertain of how to respond to the sudden embrace. She looks over Evelyn's shoulder to her father but Allen is watching his mother with disbelief—he almost seems offended. Evelyn ends the embrace and pulls away to look at Tia more closely, holding her by her shoulders with an overwhelmingly pleased expression.

Who... are you? Tia questions haltingly

Evelyn gasps, seeming wounded, and turns to Allen. With her ears pointed back and her wings spread out with feathers ruffled, she walks at Allen with an accusatory finger.

How dare you! Evelyn roars at him. Allen flinches and stiffens up like a scolded child despite his age You leaving, against my wishes, for twenty years is criminal enough! Allen opens his mouth as she waves a sharp gesture through the air but she cuts him off without hesitation But you don't even tell me I have a grandchild?! Did you have a wedding without the family too?

Allen draws in a long breath but fails to find any words for her. Evelyn looses a sharp sigh before turning back to Tia.

You're my...? Tia breathes, glancing to her father for answers with a squeaky voice I have a grandmother?

Allen, unable to respond, crumples from her question. Tia winces, seeing his reaction, recognizing just how exhausted he must be as well. Evelyn looks Tia over, glee quickly replacing her anger.

Oh! You're so beautiful! Evelyn exclaims, garnering palpable embarrassment from Tia Your mother must be so...

She looks around and her joy drops away

Oh… Oh, you poor dear! Evelyn clasps her hands together before guiding Tia into the manor with a light touch to her shoulder You must be so exhausted! Oh, do tell me about your form, too, dear. Tell me all about you! She rambles on to Tia's bafflement

Evelyn pauses only briefly, looking back at Allen and frowning.

Stop dawdling! Evelyn snaps at him before guiding Tia inside

Allen releases his held breath, glancing once at the manor before entering. He had hoped he would never lay eyes on it again.

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