Unwelcome Welcome

Suggested Audio Fishing Village

They arrive at the pier, bustling more than Tia had ever witnessed before. She had been to market with her mother but it was nothing like this. The pier is so crowded there is hardly space between each person to move about. Her senses are assaulted by the smell of brine, fish and spices but also by the clamor of vendors hawking their wares or the shouts of sailors calling out to each other. As they board the pier, strangers rush forward and begin taking up their few belongings. Tia jumps forward to stop them in a panic but Mina impedes her. Tia watches, alarmed, as they carry everything away to pack animals and begin loading them up without a word. Allen descends to the pier below ahead of his family where he is met by a stout but brawny man and a tall portly one, both seemingly Allen's age. They are dressed in clothes unfamiliar to Tia but noticeably rich in color and quality. Rings line the fingers of the taller man with excessively large gems and his dark hair is oiled back carefully. The shorter man is strapped with leather armor and scars litter his body including old burns mottling his arms. He keeps his graying ginger hair long and mostly braided, though he's begun balding at his temples.

Lord Minx! The portly man calls out, hands held out as if to embrace him

Edwin...! Allen half gasps, clearly surprised, and holds out a hand to shake with a laugh The years have treated you well I see!

Yes Edwin chortles, grasping Allen's offered hand and shaking vigorously, I have the privilege of being Governor of Sicilia now. You look well too, old friend!

Allen's eyes slide to the ornery looking man, recognition and surprise lighting up his face and his mouth hangs open in speechlessness. Before Allen can muster a greeting, Edwin looses a raucous gasp, his eyes catching on Tia and Mina as they make their way down and he appears stricken. Surprise touches the face of the second man too despite his dour frown.

My word...! Edwin gapes, hand to his chest Allen Minx, a father and husband? I never thought I'd see the day!

Lord Minx...? Tia whispers, leaning to her mother

You know your father Mina whispers back and gives a breath of a laugh He loves his surprises!

Yes, I know... Allen answers Edwin with a curt sigh and some embarrassment, fading as he spots his wife. He eyes Mina with an expression of unabashed affection. But Mina has a way of bringing out the best in me!

Mina descends, her movements flowing as gently as the silk she dons, and bows her head at the two men. She offers a modest but polished smile as she raises her head. Tia follows behind her mother, gawking wildly at the colorful pier. She slips and half skids her way down the damp wooden plank before catching herself on Mina. She masks her embarassment with a contrary pout.

And this is my daughter, Tia, the light of my life! Allen continues, stifling his amusement.

Allen pulls Tia forward with an arm around her shoulder and Tia's eyes jump between her father and the two men, her face pinched with uncertainty.

She looks absolutely plucked! Edwin guffaws

Allen shrugs, squeezing Tia's shoulder as a strained smile drags across his lips.

Well Allen states, a bit more solemn There have been quite a lot of changes for us recently.

Edwin's smile drops into a somber expression, nodding into Allen's words all too quickly.

Yes, there certainly has. I'm glad you all made it out safely! Edwin sucks in a big breath before continuing Let's get you to the inn then! General, if you would be so kind, could you escort them while I wrap things up here?

Martin, who had been leering at Allen in brooding silence, shifts from one foot to another with a grunt as his gaze moves to Mina and Tia again. Uncomfortable with his expression, Tia scowls back at him on impulse before looking to her mother. She takes some comfort from Mina's composure.

Follow me. Martin drones, his voice rough like gravel

He swivels without another word and begins walking through the crowd, Allen falling in behind him automatically. People part before the grim man, awe on their faces, and he moves swiftly despite the crowd. Heat creeps up Tia's neck as all eyes pull to them, unaccustomed to such conspicuous public attention, but she is also astonished by the assortment of people. They all wore different styles of clothing and had varying eye, skin and hair colors. Tia had never seen this level of diversity before including within the stalls they passed containing food, clothing and trinkets wholly unfamiliar to her. As they delve into the city the stench of people and filth becomes overwhelming, emanating from the narrow alleyways which spill out rot, sludge lining every crevasse. Tia's face wrinkles and she tries to block her nose with the silk of her sleeve. She could see doors lining the alleyways and found it baffling anyone would live in such an appalling place. Children smeared in filth peer at them as they pass by.

Not everyone is as fortunate as us, Tia. Mina whispers, following behind her daughter and urging her forwards as they fall behind. They were already struggling to keep up. Try to remember that.

Slow down, Martin! Allen entreats him

Oh, you do remember me after all! Martin scoffs but his gait doesn't waver, to Allen's ire Those lofty moonheads rob you of all your manners?

I see your twice as rotten as I remember Allen bites at first but a smile twists back onto his face. Allen leans forward to tease Martin. Since when did the King's Blade care about manners?

Is that supposed to be a joke...? Martin rumbles, turning to Allen and leveling an imposing leer onto him.

Passerby give them a wide girth as Martin resembles a storm about to break onto a far flimsier looking man, somehow unperterbed by his imposing demeanor. Few had the gall to give Martin lip these days but his leer carries an old anger, an old hurt left unhealed. He scours Allen as if the man before him were completely unrecognizable. His eyes narrow fruther as Allen only cracks a fond smile, almost taken aback.

That used to be your shtick. Prodding me with jokes when I became too serious! Allen muses, the nostalgia in his voice softening Martin's anger. But as his eyes catch on the girls, finally catching up, his expression hardens again.

You're completely backwards Martin spits with disgust as he spins back around, plodding forward as cantankerous as ever. But Allen is quick on his heels, Martin readying another sneer as Allen leans in to speak.

Its not like Edwin gave us much of a chance! Allen's voice drops with his own amusement Better backwards and rotten than anything approaching that windbag!

Martin chokes on his own unexpected laughter, lighting up Allen's face as they continue on in silence. Mina and Tia skitter behind, mystified by their snickering.

The buildings become newer as they continue past the slums, cleaner and of better construction. Walkways open up and fewer people travel about. Town guard are stationed at every conjunction, nodding or saluting to Martin and Allen while eyeing Tia and Mina. Finally, they arrive at a large plaza. The streets are bright, seemingly marble or granite, and crafted into geometric patterns leading up to an excessive fountain in the center. The fountain has a statue of a beautiful woman and water pours out from her cupped hands. As Tia looks closer, she notices silver scales gilded into her face and arms along with bat-like wings folding behind her. The whole fountain seems carved of the same stone as the plaza. The buildings that line the square are each grand in their own right as well. Tia is astounded by the difference between here and the rest of the city. She finds herself craving the simple wood and paper walls she was accustomed to or the serenity of quiet forest paths rather than the bustle of this place. They approach one of these buildings, large with many windows and floors, and Martin motions for them to wait. He approaches the guards posted outside and begins to speak to one of them while Tia ogles plaza with a lost expression.

Keep your eyes peeled and alert me immediately if they wander. Pursue at a distance if you have to. Martin holds the guards eyes which veer to his scars Understood? Martin grunts, the guard catching himself and nodding back

Martin calls them to the entrance after this interaction. The inside of the inn is bright and gilded, much like the plaza outside. Beautiful flowers line the walls in golden vases, gifting a delicate aroma to the entrance. A comely woman behind the front desk greets Allen and Martin with a smile and even bows her head.

Minx Martin denotes, curt with her

She flips open a carved box on the counter and runs her finger over a thin parchment. Finally, she plucks a key from the box and is about to hand this to Allen when her eye catches on Mina trailing after him. She looks from Mina to Tia and closes her hand around the key.

I'm afraid we only serve Eluzians here, sir. She states with a sing-song voice We have very particular clientele.

I am one of those clients! Allen insists with a stormy demeanor, producing a large ring with an elaborate emblem from his pockets and slapping it on the counter. He gestures for Tia and Mina to come forward and places his arm around each of them as he continues with an empirical tone Tia finds unfamiliar. I am Duke Allen Minx of the Ten Houses and these two lovely woman are my family, Mina and Tia Minx!

Tia stares vacantly at the ring and the woman eyes it as well, her face pale. She attempts to speak but her voice fails her while Martin explodes into laughter.

Well you can hardly blame her, Allen! Martin cackles and Allen whips around with a heated expression. Martin's laughter only grows. These two are all wrappd up in Yaxiyan silk and the young lass is gawking about. No one would place them as nobility. I'm more appalled this wench didn't recognize your name! Tia ruffles and matches her father's scowl She doesn't even look-

That is enough! Allen demands with an authoritative tone that surprises Tia.

Martin's glee drops into an instantaneous glower, giving her a chill. Allen meets him with a glower of his own and the room becomes deathly quiet.

I believe... we are all quite tired. Mina speaks gently despite the hostility. She places a hand on her husbands arm, his shoulders dropping as he looks into her eyes. Mina offers Martin a warm, disarming smile. You must excuse my husband, it has been a long journey with many challenges for our family. Besides, you are quite right that Tia is in need of new clothes, we lost almost everything when we fled! Martin's glare softens with her words, surprising Allen as she pauses to appraise Tia's appearance We're excited for our daughter to experience all Accia has to offer! We ought to get some rest so that can happen.

Martin reexamines Mina and Tia

That's good to hear. Martin hums in satisfaction

Allen regards Mina with pride while Martin faces the attendant again

Well, girl? Martin barks

She startles in response, dropping the key on the counter. Martin snatches it up and passes it to Allen.

Follow me...! The attendant squeaks, stepping toward the hallway.

Martin's eyes linger on them as they trail after the woman, leaving Tia uneasy—uneasy of numerous revelations the day had brought her.

Suggested Audio Distilled: Tranquility

Tia! Mina's voice echoes through the suite Are you ready yet?

Almost, just finishing up! Tia answers, standing before a gilded mirror.

Tia has tucked herself into her new Eluzian attire, quite satisfied with her improved mobility despite her love of silk—Tia has always preferred practical clothing. A white, cotton blouse is hugged by an indigo vest with silver buttons running up the front. The vest is carefully embroidered, the material thick with swirling floral patterns and is even interwoven with fine silver threads. Much to Tia's delight, alongside the dresses they received is a pair of loose-fitting pants, narrowing with buttons along her calves, and a simple leather belt. Satisfied with the fitting, she steps out to show her mother. Mina cups her hands over her mouth, looking her daughter up and down with glee.

You look beautiful! Mina breathes and Tia's face wavers between discomfort and neutrality

It's too extravagant! Tia answers, her fingers tracing over silver threads I don't think it suits me...

Her mother hums with laughter and waves her over to a chair. Tia flumps down, still twisting and getting a feel for how the fabrics move. Mina notices the untidy and haphazard knots in Tia's hair.

Think you can tolerate a braid? Mina takes a comb from her pack and wiggles it You're going to want it out of your way, we still have a long way to go.

Fine... Tia relents with a sigh, running her fingers through the tangles Are we going to live in the capital, like before? Tia questions, watching a very slight smile appear on Mina's face as she combs her daughter's tresses

Yes Mina sighs and speaks nostalgically It is very different from what you're used to but still such a beautiful place. I used to live there, actually, quite some time ago. Long before I met your father! Tia considers her mother's words as Mina guides her hair into one long braid, some stubborn locks nearly erupting despite Mina's best efforts to tame them Despite what people assume, I was born in Accia.

But... didn't you meet dad in the palace? Tia questions, her curiosity apparent. It was rare for her mother to talk about her past.

I did. Mina admits with a chuckle Fate can be odd that way. there is a knock at the door and Allen calls for them Almost ready!

You're gonna have to explain these titles to me, too. Tia notes, pulling the braid over her shoulder, and is met by more of her mother's flitting laughter I don't know what a "duke" is but that woman's face was fantastic!

Ah, good morning ladies! Edwin greets them just outside the inn You two look lovely this morning! How are the dresses we sent over? You're both a vision!

They're perfect, thank you. Mina replies politely to his excessive flattery It was kind of you to send them.

Tia smiles at Edwin as well but is obviously uncomfortable, much preferring the pants to any dress. She fusses with the laces of her boot as she stands beside Allen, pulling them up behind her and leaning on her father.

The shoes in Nippon are very different Allen explains to Edwin before he turns to Tia But you'll need a good pair of riding boots for the journey home!

Riding boots? Tia answers, painted with trepidation

Allen gestures to a gaggle of horses waiting in the plaza, triggering a grimace from Tia. She has always been terrible with horses. Allen calls out and an attendant brings about a great white mare.

This is Angel Allen says, patting her neck I'm told she's quite mild.

She's starting to look like a real Accian Lady already! Edwin states as Tia swings herself over the saddle Now then, I'm afraid you'll have to make the journey without me, your Grace. he leans in closer, warning Allen in a deeper tone Be careful. A lot has changed since you've been home. Journey safe!

Allen shakes Edwin's hand once, firmly.

Thank you, Edwin. Perhaps we'll visit once everything is settled! Allen states, helping Mina up onto her mount. Edwin grins back.

Of course, you're always welcome! In the meantime... He gestures and Martin comes around on horseback His majesty has sent the General to escort you home safely!

Allen's eyes widen but Edwin continues

I'll also be sending some of my own guards to escort you until you meet the General's unit along the way. You'll have to swing a bit south to meet them but... my, quite the prestigious party! Here. he pulls out a parchment and hands it to Martin I've had a route prepared ahead of you and reserved inns where possible. Now, I must get back to my own duties. Travel well!

I can't thank you enough, Edwin. Farewell! Allen responds as they both wave each other off

At least he's finally good for something... Martin grumbles to himself, watching Edwin scurry away. He had always hated the man's blatant pandering. Let's get on with it! Martin announces, his horse shifting about as Martin raises his voice

Martin heads the party and they follow him through the town. They cross the southern bridge leading to the mainland, arching drastically over the sea to allow for ships to pass. A sigh escapes Allen's facade as they make landfall, certainly not one of contentment or relief.

Sun Dappled Trail

Edwin seemed... excessively friendly Tia questions her father, stirring him from thought What was that about?

Edwin and I... served in the military together. Allen explains Earned himself a position by serving with Martin and I.

I didn't know you were a soldier... Tia notes, struggling to envision her father even wielding a weapon

F

Of course he was Martin sneers from ahead of them. He doesn't look back but continues. There isn't an Accian alive who hasn't served the kingdom!

Tia's eyes drift back to her father, a grim expression pointed at Martin

What does that mean? Tia questions slowly, eyes narrowing on her father

Nothing, snowdrop. Don't worry about it. Allen assures her but her scoff is automatic

It doesn't sound like nothing! Tia retorts, Allen frowning at her tone

We'll discuss it later. Allen insists Now isn't the time.

Allen kicks his horse forward, riding alongside Martin and regarding him with a warning in his gaze before they converse. Tia finds Mina watching Allen just as carefully, a hint of alarm touching her face, but as Mina meets her daughter's eyes they exchange shrugs. Tia decides it must be another of his surprises. They pass along flagstone and dirt roads relatively quietly, gentle sunlight breathing warmth over Tia's face despite the nipping spring air. Undulating hills and tidy farms mark the countryside, containing burgeoning crops, aromatic herbs and sprawling pastures. This mass verdant blanket is broken up only by occasional glades, knolls and rivers, rolling out into the horizon and hugged north and south by mountains, far off from where they are now. These two mountain ranges are quite different from each other. To the north, the mountains are sharp, slicing into the clouds, and run in narrow strips skirted by pines. To the south, mountains roll into each other akin to ocean waves and resemble, to Tia, silk draped over the bones of the land. When prompted, Mina explains they are different due to their age. The southern range is extremely ancient whereas the northern range is rife with seismic activity and were cut by glaciers further north. As they travel, they pull closer to the south. Tia observes the people working the farms they pass as well, readily using magic to aid their efforts. A farmer gestures with his palms facing outward, seemingly stained auburn, and the soil softens, plowed by some invisible hand. Another dips their fingers into the loosened dirt and little buds pop out of the soil. As they pass a pasture, a woman speaks to the horses. Her face and arms up to her elbows are painted with deep maroon patterns, glowing as she hovers them over the pregnant mare's belly and summoning a similar glow from its swollen belly. Tia is astounded at how casually and readily the people here utilize their forms, feeling as if the world around her was slowly coming to life with magic. While the island city left her feeling lost and uncomfortable, this vibrant valley stirs curiosity and eagerness to explore further. Despite his reluctance to return home, Allen can't stifle his smile witnessing Tia's eyes glimmer again after so long. However, as they arrive at the inn, Tia finds herself well beyond exhaustion. Her skin is pasted with sweat and her legs tremble as she trudges up to their room. She was far from fit enough for this journey especially after more than a month at sea.

Ghosts of Appalachia

I don't think I've ever been so exhausted! Tia gasps, crumbling into her bed

Just wait Allen teases You'll be more sore than you've ever been tomorrow and far more the day after that!

Tia's groan is excessive as she pulls at the laces of her boots. She barely manages to kick them off before falling asleep. Allen and Mina smile to each other at the sight and sit at a table by the window.

Too tired to follow up for that discussion you promised her. Mina whispers, giving Allen a meaningful look

There is a lot I'm putting off telling her. Allen whispers back So much is changing for her so quickly. She deserves just a little more time before she has to tackle anything more.

Mina takes his hands in hers from across the table

I know you want to protect her Mina speaks empathetically But whatever is coming, you need to prepare her. She wont stay a little girl for you forever. a wan frown develops on his face, concern finally leaking into his expression as his daughter slumbers Keeping things from her may be more harmful. I hope... you wont keep anything from me either?

He holds Mina's gaze before nodding. Tia grumbles some annoyance and turns over in her sleep. He gestures to the door and they both step out. As they exit the room, they find one of the guards stationed outside. Shaking off their surprise, they nod amiably and head downstairs. Several of the men escorting them are gathered at a table, drinking and playing cards while Martin sits at the bar and has emptied several glasses already, flirting with the barmaid. The men fall silent as the Minx couple enters the tavern but when Martin snaps a fierce leer in their direction they conspicuously start their game back up.

Did ye need sum'm? Martin slurs. A poorly stifled smile wavers on Allen's lips but he waves dismissively.

No, we just need a bit of fresh air! Allen replies. Martin shrugs and turns back to the woman, sipping his ale. The couple steps outside, stopping just under a tree outside the inn. One guard watches them through the window.

They're practically vultures! Mina complains, her breath puffing before her face as she sighs What is going on, love?

Allen wraps an arm around her and looks up at the starry sky. Inside the inn, the guard keeping watch on the couple pretends to relax, glancing at his cards. He watches them converse in his peripheral vision. Allen speaks for several moments before Mina squeezes his fingers, her eyes begging for honesty as they peer into his but Allen is clearly hesitant. Martin gauges the interaction by watching the guard's expression, his eyes squinting as Mina gasps, her face going pale. Allen is slow to continue, concern tripping him up at Mina's reaction. She is suddenly distant, staring nowhere in particular in her daze, and Allen glances significantly at their room as he speaks. The guard's eyebrows knit together and Martin turns to leer at them himself. Tears well up and trickle down Mina's face and she tears herself away from him, eyes wrenched shut as she seemingly holds herself together. Allen reaches for her but she whips around with an accusatory finger before wavering back to sorrow, trembling. He steps toward her, his movements extraordinarily gentle, cupping her hands together in his own, and shakes his head as he speaks. Martin scoffs, Allen's face overflowing with consideration and empathy.

Can 'ardly reconize 'im... Martin slurs to himself and frowns, feeling nostalgic and bitter

Oh, Allen...! Mina sobs and begins to shiver again. Allen embraces her on impulse, releasing the smallest sigh of relief when she doesn't pull away.

Mina, what- Allen begins to ask but she shakes her head vigorously into his shoulder, sniffling I'm sorry... I'm sorry. Allen's voice is a wisp as he squeezes her, stroking her back until her shivers fall away. Her silence drags on, focusing on Allen's warmth. I'm going to do everything I can to protect both of you-

He speaks with firm determination but she pulls away, Allen searching her face

I... Mina hesitates and her voice breaks I'm tired. She wipes at her face and he searches her expression, her lips pressed tightly together. She can't meet his eyes.

Alright, darling. Allen nearly husks Let's get some rest.

He escorts her back to the bedroom and sits up for some time, watching over the two of them before turning in himself.

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