Big Dicc Marty
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- Nov 3, 2021
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Aliset walked tall, a soft smile on her lips as she approached the meeting room door. As expected, Spark already had Alloy there, with her shackles leading to one of Spark’s belt loops. Not that she didn’t trust the other tsulrati, but procedures were procedures. And Alloy had been firmly informed on those procedures and why it was a bad idea to break them.
She gave a soft nod and smile before knocking. “I’ll go in, Spark, if you could wait outside with Alloy, I’ll come get her.”
“That’s the plan. Let me know if you need anything.”
“Good to hear. You always were better than me at these things.”
“Not setting a high bar, ma’am,” the giantess smirked. “I’ll wait. You go talk to Mark. Scrufflebutt’s not going anywhere till I get word.”
While uncomfortable and feeling naked with the lack of armor on her undersuit, Alloy kept quiet and bid her time. Oh does she see an exit and freedom, just a small run away. While she feels weak without her stimulants and is certainly suffering withdrawals regardless of the augmentations to prevent such a thing, her arrogance assures her. Just through the door and a city escape. It’s close enough to her environment, she could evade in urban areas. The NDC had no idea how hard it would be to find a Drhuv…
Alloy looked up to Spark and her giant stature. The only thing that could stop her, that and the stupid magic that had put her against a wall a week or so ago.
Spark had seen these looks before. So many times from so many weapons she was to help. “Don’t even try it. What would Aliset say?”
As the doors creaked open, Mark was sitting at the end of the table, talking to his brother and co-monarch. Both seemed to be in the middle of a minor disagreement about something, as to what, that couldn’t be clearly heard from the other end of the spacious ornate room. Despite the barren metal reinforced exterior of the building, the interior was fully decorated with all the styles of home. Everything from tapestries and banners, to pillars and marble stone works.
“Mark, I don't agree with this. They pose a security risk, and even drew blood on your own wife. She clearly does not respect us, our laws, or our people. I will not have a savage animal here in the capital, unless I can be convinced they can be anything other then that.” Jack was adamant even if his voice was not raised, but his tone was sharp and to the point of the matter. His eyes were locked on his brother’s, every gesture and word making clear he would not budge on such a stance.
Mark simply gave a sigh before pinching the bridge of his nose, “I see where you are coming from, and I understand.” A sip of coffee was taken, the archduke not having had the energy to deal with the pile of headaches he’d been given over the whole matter in question. “Begrudgingly, I agree to a point, but Aliset has not sought to press charges. That being said, I’ve told the guards and security that they are permitted to use lethals, if she does anything to harm anyone again while in custody. That being said, it seems my wife has come to join us to share her input on the matter. Perhaps hear her out and then put judgment on the matter, so we can then at least say we did so with all points considered.”
"Jack, lovely to see you as always," Aliset gave a small curtsey before approaching the table. "I brought Alloy Drhurati to bring in upon our discussion upon both of your approval. That said, from observing and working with her in her cell, I would hardly call her a savage animal. She is highly trained and highly civilized for her culture. More civil than myself, believe it or not."
Another soft smile as she made her opening point. "You have seen the differences between our two cultures, Mark, and the friction it can cause. Would you agree that in your eyes I am a bit of a… what was the word you used, Jack? A savage? I understand how the situation leading to her arrest appeared, even to me. The idea was to disturb me on an instinctive level, thereby preventing me from inserting Senti ideals into the Duskerian negotiations. Completely understandable under the misconception that I have any reason to be a benefit to the Senti, considering what you know of my history, and what they didn’t know. The mistake was a simple one. However, I believe the dishonor shown in the face of Alloy’s arrest, by abandoning their soldier to a foreign, potentially hostile power? Would you do that to Spark? Or to Artemis? I believe that Alloy has also handled her imprisonment with grace and honor unusual for a people who abandon their own. Please refrain from calling her animalistic in my presence. Ever.”
The hardened look Aliset passed Jack, the flash of green under her red as her skin rippled with iridescent glints as though her burial steel abilities were destabilized and fading, could have boiled water or peeled paint. At least until she looked away, suddenly, eyes forward. “Apologies. I have taken personal offense at her people’s handling of her situation.”
“You may not always approve of my attitude Aliset, but one of us has to take a hard look at things. Even if I am remembered as cold, cruel, and brutal for it at times.” Jack had narrowed his gaze, meeting the very pointed look he had been given. Continuing however, he relaxed back to his nominal seriousness, “My brother does not always have the heart to take such stances. Despite having been by my side for years, he has not seen the dark of other people that I have seen. So excuse me if I hold every outsider in doubt, but I am still waiting to hear the justification that she should be trusted.”
“Wow, make me sound like a teddy bear why don’t you.”, Mark commented in mock wounded pride, even if only semi-convincing. A datapad on his side of the table was lifted, the recent reports and security footage on its display for him to look over. “As much as I may not always appreciate his attitude my dear, it still has merit to some extent. I do understand where you are coming from, and I’m willing to help, but we have to make sure she’s not going to be a security risk to our people. If that can be proven, and her wanting to even accept a place here can be proven, then all my concerns will be satisfied.”
“Then let us bring her in.” Ali gave another warm smile. “Let her show you for herself.”
It took a nudge from the giant to rouse Alloy from her stare at the door leading outside. It was her cue to go on stage and, as she entered the room at Spark’s permission, she became uncomfortable. It was intimidating being amongst people with so much say about her freedom and she just gave up the only chance of an escape attempt. The door behind her shut and she inhaled a deep breath to smell the room.
Alloy didn’t speak, not even a whisper. She wasn’t supposed to be eavesdropping and if she wanted to be free she had to play sweet and good. She’d wave if her hands weren’t behind her back, only able to stand at a mock rest with the restraints. Alloy had begun to regret wearing her undersuit to this meeting, it looked cocky. As much as she normally would be, she felt small and judged. Too many eyes, not enough shade to hide in. At least until Aliset turned and stepped to Alloy’s side, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
“Jack and Mark Oaklen, please meet Alloy Drhurati, the Gem of the Collective.”
Both of the archdukes seemed to slowly look at each other for a moment. “She doesn’t exactly seem talkative.”, was Jack’s comment after a moment. Mark simply rolled his eyes at this before looking at their guest again. The darker haired of the two, gave her a look over for a moment longer before Mark spoke finally. “I would appreciate it if you could sit and speak with us for a bit, Alloy, so we can better measure you as an individual in this meeting.”
“Has no one tried to find her proper clothes instead of that suit she’s been in for however long? Sister, would you please bring Aliset a clothing catalog to look over while we discuss things here?”, Jack finally chimed in with something other then suspicions and aggressive doubts.
“We did,” Spark spoke up, unclipping Alloy from her belt. “She preferred the bra and boyshorts she decided to wear with her armor’s base layer today. But I’ll be right back with that catalog.”
Alloy felt her weight return to her center, no longer pulled by the guardswoman. She stared at the table in the room and couldn’t shake the thought it was where wolves fed. She tensed but obliged as she walked to take a seat. “This is most comfortable. I have not only worn this: I am not unhygienic.” As she sat down and leaned against the seat, her arms pinned between, Alloy couldn’t shake that tense and uncomfortable expression on her face. She was just given off to aliens, so uncomfortably smooth and odd. It was all too foreign to not feel unwelcome.
“Alloy, how was your breakfast this morning? I did my best to recreate that spinefish dish that you spilled all over me our first day.” A soft squeeze of Alloy’s hand came from Ali as she gently sat down. “Not that I didn’t deserve that. I trust you and Spark have been getting along?”
“Apologies then, though the offer is still open in case you wish to expand your wardrobe during your stay with us. How about we get you out of those cuffs for the time being as well.”, Jack added now that the table turned to him once more. He raised a hand and made a quick gesture, the electronics buried in the metal of the cuffs turning the mechanism. As the hand was lowered once more, a lazy pair of feathers seemingly from nowhere, drifted down towards the floor. One raven black, the other as snow white as the Archduke’s own hair, but he failed to notice they had appeared around his gesture.
Mark’s eyes followed the gesture, taking note of the anomaly, but saying nothing of it. “How very generous of you brother. Have drinks brought please, this may take a bit.”
Alloy’s first motion was sharp, bringing her hand up to inspect them as if they had been missing for so long. She stretched her palm, into the proximals, intermediates and distals. How the hands meant so much to a Drhuv. She had gotten caught up in relishing the little bit of freedom she had again, not noticing how others might tense at such a quick movement around the duke.
She relaxed as if to lead by example and set her hands in her lap. “Thank you.” The freedom was enough to calm the overbearing cliff of anxiety, though only a small amount. “Spark and I have interacted well.” She noted, just leaning to get a better look at the feathers that had no parent or origin. Odd. Incredibly. She sniffed and passed it off as clearing her nose, trying to possibly track if it was that same odd smell and look she had seen in her first steps into the palace. The one Jack seemed to be the center of.
“Thank you, Jack. I’ve worked with Alloy for the last few weeks in her cell. I’m sure you’ve read my reports. I know that I received a few bites, but at the same time, I was kind of expecting it. It took me several days to earn her trust. I felt it would be in poor taste for her to be left to sit alone in there. She is Tsulrati, and Drhuv. Both are extremely social cultures that don’t handle solitary very well by species. She has taught me much about overcoming prejudice. And her people have some truly beautiful rituals.”
“Perhaps something that can be learned and shared, as she likewise learns and observes our own culture. Much like we have done with your people as well Aliset, same methods, different encounters.”, Jack replied as he mulled this over. Discerning whether it was biased, or not, he weighed their options at this juncture. Even if he had seemed to ease up, which in a way he had, the current decision making process was still of a critical nature. “I propose that she be released from confinement, be given a full medical check over, but with a parole period of observation for one week.”
Mark seemed surprised by this, looking to his brother with a look that said he had been expecting harsher. “Well, I think that is a fair decision, but can you elaborate on the learning part mentioned before. How do you propose going about that? And where will she be staying, while on parole?”
“That should be an easy one brother. Seeing as your wife has taken her as their guardian, of a sorts anyways, it seems by default she would be staying at your home. As for her learning and being learned from, she is likely to meet your son anyways, and as a scholar with experience in such. Well, he is the perfect choice for such work, perhaps even staying for a time at that lodge he calls a manor along with Aliset. I’m sure she would like to see elsewhere, and no place like nature to get away from the city… You know, surrounded by ocean, and walls of armor with defense systems.”
The other lord was a bit miffed it seemed, not expecting either suggestion, or even this level of leniency, which felt concerning. It certainly was not a removal, as he would have not involved his son in such. “That is something that while, I would say we should ask Heinrich first. I must still agree. What say you to these conditions my dear.”, Mark finally responded, before turning back to the two women for their reaction.
Heinrich. Alloy gave a simple nod to the two leaders, not saying much else. Feigning some sort of selective mutism or just not having anything to say. The terms were acceptable but it wasn't much of a choice for Alloy. She has to deal with Heinrich, that's her biggest worry. She could care less for the man and his over-reactions.
Spark appeared off Alloy’s elbow, bending down to set a thick magazine on the table, along with Alloy’s own set of the glasses Alieset often wore to navigate the city. “I would recommend Sutessetu Soren for Alloy’s medical exam. When she feels ready of course. She and my neurologist have been planning the disaugmentation of my arm for a few weeks, now.”
Aliset gave Jack a small smile. “Heinrich might be a bit… His initial meeting with her may have left a bias. Perhaps your niece may be a better choice. The one that goes to my xenopolicy class… In full Knight uniform.”
“That sounds like one of mine,” Spark deadpanned.
“It is. Speaking of, I haven’t seen Princess in a few days.”
“She’s alright. Just decided she wasn’t going to be leaving Angela’s side. I know Angela’s been kinda stressed out about some Black Wing project I ain’t privvy to. So it makes sense.” Spark shrugged. “But we were on more professional subjects. Such as Alloy’s release, assuming she behaves herself.”
“Right. Sorry. Thank you, Mark. Jack, I will speak to Heinrich, and perhaps curb his enthusiasm on this matter if necessary. I’ll sign the sponsorship papers, myself. And… Then I have to speak with Galestrix… And the Elder Bahum. And Tumnisian leadership. Taking Alloy to Skylador to go to Riverwalk is going to be problematic.”
Mark this time was the one to speak up first. “My dear, our son only did what he thought was appropriate in his best judgment. Not only out of his training as a crown prince, but for fearing the safety of his mother. Please do not dishonor that intent by putting inflections of bias, when he simply did his job. You after all, never argued her incarceration, just the duration.”, he said, making it clear not to go overboard.
“His so-called “enthusiasm”, is protecting the only mother he has left, so be cordial. Please, for my sake and not causing stress from what has already transpired, just collaborate so that things can move on and tensions healed. After all, you have seen our own swayed opinions, so I am sure he will be much the same.” Personally, he wasn’t keen on the tension that was recurrently brought up over the incident. Much less the friction to her own family over it, and them simply doing their jobs, but he would not argue it and hope she realized it wasn’t the way to go about things.
Alloy nearly winced at the discord she had wrought. While she was first excited at the ability to interact with other species and be the first on such a mission, she didn't think of the consequences. She could always just come back to the Collective and not worry about whatever effect she had. Come back to a feast, eat and celebrate to an objective complete.
Goddess, she felt guilty. Her skin was growing cold and sharp with that disgust and shame perspiring off of her. She almost shrunk but tried to show herself as that powerful and prideful hunter, even if it looked almost wrong. A good face for the foreigners, let them know she's not scared. She has her hands free and can wreak a little havoc if she needs..
"I apologize," Aliset lowered her head. "But as much as you and he claim it, I am not his mother. I do love him, and I find him extremely capable. And I'll admit my bias had shifted. I will correct this. We shall see how Heinrich feels about the arrangement. Nevertheless, I made a promise to return Alloy unharmed and honorably to her people. It is my hope that the Drhuvian Collective sees our actions as a learning experience for all involved. Also. At Alloy's… I wouldn't say suggestion, but more how she showed a different path, I'd like your assistance with a personal project."
Raising her head, she offered a soft tilt of her head. "I am not Senti. I have no need for a Senti uniform. Would you assist me in the reclamation and recycling of my Shuristan diplomat's uniform? Folding its steel into a single ingot and destroying what cannot be recycled to better purpose. You, Heinrich, and Alloy. All of us, really."
“This sounds more like we are merely being asked to attend the act as witnesses. Is there some dear and special meaning to what you’re asking us, Aliset?” It was Jack who had addressed the topic this time, more out of curiosity, and an attempt to uncover more information on the request itself. He saw no harm in it, other then a slight hiccup in schedule, but it would only mean a small gripe from his sister.
Mark seemed to not think much of the request himself, but more in the fact that as her husband, it was a trivia matter. Quite rhetorical in having to think she needed to even ask, as he would be there regardless. “You are the closest one he has, his own long dead, and he needs a family. Much like we are there for each other, and as my wife, you know I will help how I can regardless. You being there to support him in that role, as I do you as a husband, is part of being a family. For some of our people, that is all they had left when they came here, and even some with nothing at all.”
The white haired of the two archdukes chose to speak again, adding one last thought on the topic Mark had raised. “Well said brother, the war was a price too great, and stitching wounds while healing hearts is essential. Even I have only begun to reconnect with my own family in recent months. Some are trying to find family wherever they can, and come together. I only ask for others to respect that and do their best.”
“My choosing to wear that suit is at least a portion of what caused this. Heinrich may not be my son, but he is still of my family, and I will do everything in my power to support him wherever he can, and I shall curb my own jokes on the matter.” Aliset offered a smile. “Besides. If all I needed was witnesses, I could have broken the suit down and videoed it. Those suits are well beyond my skill, and I could use some arcane and technical expertise to help pull apart the components. The technical expertise in space suits is something Alloy has, as does Heinrich. You two have the arcana experience to dismantle the Shuristan spellwork.”
“Yes, I can help you with your suit.” Alloy affirmed, though not terribly interested as Jack had more interesting matters. “War? How recent was this war?” She asked as just a bit of her tension eased away. She could participate and not feel guilty that it was about her wrong doings. For a nice city like this, though, there were hardly any signs of war. Even Ordesia who was so well funded for reconstruction still showed late symptoms of Berserker fury to this day. There were no signs of war, what does he mean?
Mark gave a small nod as the explanation was given, “The one with the most arcane knowledge is my brother, and our sister Armora. Though our knowledge pales in comparison to his. I do have some insight into space grade equipment, given my duties and position.” The comment seemed to make Jack uncomfortable, even if true, as his inherent knowledge was not a topic he spoke of often. The raven haired archduke however, still gestured to the white haired brother, as if in request that he add more.
“Well that is true yes, though we take a more scientific approach to the arcane. I’m sure Alloy’s practical knowledge of more traditional arcane arts will be more valuable in this situation. I would possibly suggest bringing in Armora’s mentor perhaps. Lady Orias, a… odd foreigner who seems to come and go as she pleases.” The last part of Jack’s statements seemed to bring about some mild annoyance, as the queen in question liked sticking her nose everywhere.
"I do not know magic." Alloy protested. "I know suits and their workings. I know Drhuvian armor." She looked down at her own dress, the stretchy layer of muscle she knew well like it were her own, the layer of power and wire that made the suit what it is and all of the gel that kept her cool and safe. "I can dissect the suit. I was trained to do so. I cannot handle 'magic'. It is still wild and beyond me."
Spark arrived at Alloy's elbow, gently placing the requested items down before disappearing as Aliset opened her mouth.
"Much of the arcane portion can be handled rather soundly. But the steel has to recognize family. Even then, based on how sometimes it hurts to look at Jack, I'm sure that overpowering it would be simple," she looked Jack in the eyes, quietly noting how it somehow didn't give her a headache. And now she could actually see his facial features, rather than like looking into a lightbulb. "Oh! You do look like brothers!"
"Can blame our mother for that. But all jokes aside, why are you staring at me like that? You act as if you've never seen me before." Jack seemed to take her look incredulously. He remembered that Iffni had looked upon him in much the same way back at the announcement of the gate project.
Mark only seemed confused as he could not perceive whatever it was, that they were staring at each other for. "Careful, she might come out of retirement to put a shock round in you. But yes, jokes aside, I see no reason we cannot help handle this task dear."
Alloy ceased her general looks back and forth between the dukes and the duchess, settling on Aliset. She didn't know much about Senti nor would she ever claim to in her right mind. But that… "You can see his face now?" Alloy questioned Aliset.
“Yeah, I mean, his hair’s still glowing, and it’s kinda bright, but I can sorta see details, now.” She shrugged, looking over to Alloy. “What? It’s not like my powers are fading and I’m about to be called an interloper by a mild deity.”
Spark leaned down next to Aliset, “Excuse me, Majesties, I have a meeting with the Grand General. I’ll be back later.”
She gave a soft nod and smile before knocking. “I’ll go in, Spark, if you could wait outside with Alloy, I’ll come get her.”
“That’s the plan. Let me know if you need anything.”
“Good to hear. You always were better than me at these things.”
“Not setting a high bar, ma’am,” the giantess smirked. “I’ll wait. You go talk to Mark. Scrufflebutt’s not going anywhere till I get word.”
While uncomfortable and feeling naked with the lack of armor on her undersuit, Alloy kept quiet and bid her time. Oh does she see an exit and freedom, just a small run away. While she feels weak without her stimulants and is certainly suffering withdrawals regardless of the augmentations to prevent such a thing, her arrogance assures her. Just through the door and a city escape. It’s close enough to her environment, she could evade in urban areas. The NDC had no idea how hard it would be to find a Drhuv…
Alloy looked up to Spark and her giant stature. The only thing that could stop her, that and the stupid magic that had put her against a wall a week or so ago.
Spark had seen these looks before. So many times from so many weapons she was to help. “Don’t even try it. What would Aliset say?”
As the doors creaked open, Mark was sitting at the end of the table, talking to his brother and co-monarch. Both seemed to be in the middle of a minor disagreement about something, as to what, that couldn’t be clearly heard from the other end of the spacious ornate room. Despite the barren metal reinforced exterior of the building, the interior was fully decorated with all the styles of home. Everything from tapestries and banners, to pillars and marble stone works.
“Mark, I don't agree with this. They pose a security risk, and even drew blood on your own wife. She clearly does not respect us, our laws, or our people. I will not have a savage animal here in the capital, unless I can be convinced they can be anything other then that.” Jack was adamant even if his voice was not raised, but his tone was sharp and to the point of the matter. His eyes were locked on his brother’s, every gesture and word making clear he would not budge on such a stance.
Mark simply gave a sigh before pinching the bridge of his nose, “I see where you are coming from, and I understand.” A sip of coffee was taken, the archduke not having had the energy to deal with the pile of headaches he’d been given over the whole matter in question. “Begrudgingly, I agree to a point, but Aliset has not sought to press charges. That being said, I’ve told the guards and security that they are permitted to use lethals, if she does anything to harm anyone again while in custody. That being said, it seems my wife has come to join us to share her input on the matter. Perhaps hear her out and then put judgment on the matter, so we can then at least say we did so with all points considered.”
"Jack, lovely to see you as always," Aliset gave a small curtsey before approaching the table. "I brought Alloy Drhurati to bring in upon our discussion upon both of your approval. That said, from observing and working with her in her cell, I would hardly call her a savage animal. She is highly trained and highly civilized for her culture. More civil than myself, believe it or not."
Another soft smile as she made her opening point. "You have seen the differences between our two cultures, Mark, and the friction it can cause. Would you agree that in your eyes I am a bit of a… what was the word you used, Jack? A savage? I understand how the situation leading to her arrest appeared, even to me. The idea was to disturb me on an instinctive level, thereby preventing me from inserting Senti ideals into the Duskerian negotiations. Completely understandable under the misconception that I have any reason to be a benefit to the Senti, considering what you know of my history, and what they didn’t know. The mistake was a simple one. However, I believe the dishonor shown in the face of Alloy’s arrest, by abandoning their soldier to a foreign, potentially hostile power? Would you do that to Spark? Or to Artemis? I believe that Alloy has also handled her imprisonment with grace and honor unusual for a people who abandon their own. Please refrain from calling her animalistic in my presence. Ever.”
The hardened look Aliset passed Jack, the flash of green under her red as her skin rippled with iridescent glints as though her burial steel abilities were destabilized and fading, could have boiled water or peeled paint. At least until she looked away, suddenly, eyes forward. “Apologies. I have taken personal offense at her people’s handling of her situation.”
“You may not always approve of my attitude Aliset, but one of us has to take a hard look at things. Even if I am remembered as cold, cruel, and brutal for it at times.” Jack had narrowed his gaze, meeting the very pointed look he had been given. Continuing however, he relaxed back to his nominal seriousness, “My brother does not always have the heart to take such stances. Despite having been by my side for years, he has not seen the dark of other people that I have seen. So excuse me if I hold every outsider in doubt, but I am still waiting to hear the justification that she should be trusted.”
“Wow, make me sound like a teddy bear why don’t you.”, Mark commented in mock wounded pride, even if only semi-convincing. A datapad on his side of the table was lifted, the recent reports and security footage on its display for him to look over. “As much as I may not always appreciate his attitude my dear, it still has merit to some extent. I do understand where you are coming from, and I’m willing to help, but we have to make sure she’s not going to be a security risk to our people. If that can be proven, and her wanting to even accept a place here can be proven, then all my concerns will be satisfied.”
“Then let us bring her in.” Ali gave another warm smile. “Let her show you for herself.”
It took a nudge from the giant to rouse Alloy from her stare at the door leading outside. It was her cue to go on stage and, as she entered the room at Spark’s permission, she became uncomfortable. It was intimidating being amongst people with so much say about her freedom and she just gave up the only chance of an escape attempt. The door behind her shut and she inhaled a deep breath to smell the room.
Alloy didn’t speak, not even a whisper. She wasn’t supposed to be eavesdropping and if she wanted to be free she had to play sweet and good. She’d wave if her hands weren’t behind her back, only able to stand at a mock rest with the restraints. Alloy had begun to regret wearing her undersuit to this meeting, it looked cocky. As much as she normally would be, she felt small and judged. Too many eyes, not enough shade to hide in. At least until Aliset turned and stepped to Alloy’s side, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
“Jack and Mark Oaklen, please meet Alloy Drhurati, the Gem of the Collective.”
Both of the archdukes seemed to slowly look at each other for a moment. “She doesn’t exactly seem talkative.”, was Jack’s comment after a moment. Mark simply rolled his eyes at this before looking at their guest again. The darker haired of the two, gave her a look over for a moment longer before Mark spoke finally. “I would appreciate it if you could sit and speak with us for a bit, Alloy, so we can better measure you as an individual in this meeting.”
“Has no one tried to find her proper clothes instead of that suit she’s been in for however long? Sister, would you please bring Aliset a clothing catalog to look over while we discuss things here?”, Jack finally chimed in with something other then suspicions and aggressive doubts.
“We did,” Spark spoke up, unclipping Alloy from her belt. “She preferred the bra and boyshorts she decided to wear with her armor’s base layer today. But I’ll be right back with that catalog.”
Alloy felt her weight return to her center, no longer pulled by the guardswoman. She stared at the table in the room and couldn’t shake the thought it was where wolves fed. She tensed but obliged as she walked to take a seat. “This is most comfortable. I have not only worn this: I am not unhygienic.” As she sat down and leaned against the seat, her arms pinned between, Alloy couldn’t shake that tense and uncomfortable expression on her face. She was just given off to aliens, so uncomfortably smooth and odd. It was all too foreign to not feel unwelcome.
“Alloy, how was your breakfast this morning? I did my best to recreate that spinefish dish that you spilled all over me our first day.” A soft squeeze of Alloy’s hand came from Ali as she gently sat down. “Not that I didn’t deserve that. I trust you and Spark have been getting along?”
“Apologies then, though the offer is still open in case you wish to expand your wardrobe during your stay with us. How about we get you out of those cuffs for the time being as well.”, Jack added now that the table turned to him once more. He raised a hand and made a quick gesture, the electronics buried in the metal of the cuffs turning the mechanism. As the hand was lowered once more, a lazy pair of feathers seemingly from nowhere, drifted down towards the floor. One raven black, the other as snow white as the Archduke’s own hair, but he failed to notice they had appeared around his gesture.
Mark’s eyes followed the gesture, taking note of the anomaly, but saying nothing of it. “How very generous of you brother. Have drinks brought please, this may take a bit.”
Alloy’s first motion was sharp, bringing her hand up to inspect them as if they had been missing for so long. She stretched her palm, into the proximals, intermediates and distals. How the hands meant so much to a Drhuv. She had gotten caught up in relishing the little bit of freedom she had again, not noticing how others might tense at such a quick movement around the duke.
She relaxed as if to lead by example and set her hands in her lap. “Thank you.” The freedom was enough to calm the overbearing cliff of anxiety, though only a small amount. “Spark and I have interacted well.” She noted, just leaning to get a better look at the feathers that had no parent or origin. Odd. Incredibly. She sniffed and passed it off as clearing her nose, trying to possibly track if it was that same odd smell and look she had seen in her first steps into the palace. The one Jack seemed to be the center of.
“Thank you, Jack. I’ve worked with Alloy for the last few weeks in her cell. I’m sure you’ve read my reports. I know that I received a few bites, but at the same time, I was kind of expecting it. It took me several days to earn her trust. I felt it would be in poor taste for her to be left to sit alone in there. She is Tsulrati, and Drhuv. Both are extremely social cultures that don’t handle solitary very well by species. She has taught me much about overcoming prejudice. And her people have some truly beautiful rituals.”
“Perhaps something that can be learned and shared, as she likewise learns and observes our own culture. Much like we have done with your people as well Aliset, same methods, different encounters.”, Jack replied as he mulled this over. Discerning whether it was biased, or not, he weighed their options at this juncture. Even if he had seemed to ease up, which in a way he had, the current decision making process was still of a critical nature. “I propose that she be released from confinement, be given a full medical check over, but with a parole period of observation for one week.”
Mark seemed surprised by this, looking to his brother with a look that said he had been expecting harsher. “Well, I think that is a fair decision, but can you elaborate on the learning part mentioned before. How do you propose going about that? And where will she be staying, while on parole?”
“That should be an easy one brother. Seeing as your wife has taken her as their guardian, of a sorts anyways, it seems by default she would be staying at your home. As for her learning and being learned from, she is likely to meet your son anyways, and as a scholar with experience in such. Well, he is the perfect choice for such work, perhaps even staying for a time at that lodge he calls a manor along with Aliset. I’m sure she would like to see elsewhere, and no place like nature to get away from the city… You know, surrounded by ocean, and walls of armor with defense systems.”
The other lord was a bit miffed it seemed, not expecting either suggestion, or even this level of leniency, which felt concerning. It certainly was not a removal, as he would have not involved his son in such. “That is something that while, I would say we should ask Heinrich first. I must still agree. What say you to these conditions my dear.”, Mark finally responded, before turning back to the two women for their reaction.
Heinrich. Alloy gave a simple nod to the two leaders, not saying much else. Feigning some sort of selective mutism or just not having anything to say. The terms were acceptable but it wasn't much of a choice for Alloy. She has to deal with Heinrich, that's her biggest worry. She could care less for the man and his over-reactions.
Spark appeared off Alloy’s elbow, bending down to set a thick magazine on the table, along with Alloy’s own set of the glasses Alieset often wore to navigate the city. “I would recommend Sutessetu Soren for Alloy’s medical exam. When she feels ready of course. She and my neurologist have been planning the disaugmentation of my arm for a few weeks, now.”
Aliset gave Jack a small smile. “Heinrich might be a bit… His initial meeting with her may have left a bias. Perhaps your niece may be a better choice. The one that goes to my xenopolicy class… In full Knight uniform.”
“That sounds like one of mine,” Spark deadpanned.
“It is. Speaking of, I haven’t seen Princess in a few days.”
“She’s alright. Just decided she wasn’t going to be leaving Angela’s side. I know Angela’s been kinda stressed out about some Black Wing project I ain’t privvy to. So it makes sense.” Spark shrugged. “But we were on more professional subjects. Such as Alloy’s release, assuming she behaves herself.”
“Right. Sorry. Thank you, Mark. Jack, I will speak to Heinrich, and perhaps curb his enthusiasm on this matter if necessary. I’ll sign the sponsorship papers, myself. And… Then I have to speak with Galestrix… And the Elder Bahum. And Tumnisian leadership. Taking Alloy to Skylador to go to Riverwalk is going to be problematic.”
Mark this time was the one to speak up first. “My dear, our son only did what he thought was appropriate in his best judgment. Not only out of his training as a crown prince, but for fearing the safety of his mother. Please do not dishonor that intent by putting inflections of bias, when he simply did his job. You after all, never argued her incarceration, just the duration.”, he said, making it clear not to go overboard.
“His so-called “enthusiasm”, is protecting the only mother he has left, so be cordial. Please, for my sake and not causing stress from what has already transpired, just collaborate so that things can move on and tensions healed. After all, you have seen our own swayed opinions, so I am sure he will be much the same.” Personally, he wasn’t keen on the tension that was recurrently brought up over the incident. Much less the friction to her own family over it, and them simply doing their jobs, but he would not argue it and hope she realized it wasn’t the way to go about things.
Alloy nearly winced at the discord she had wrought. While she was first excited at the ability to interact with other species and be the first on such a mission, she didn't think of the consequences. She could always just come back to the Collective and not worry about whatever effect she had. Come back to a feast, eat and celebrate to an objective complete.
Goddess, she felt guilty. Her skin was growing cold and sharp with that disgust and shame perspiring off of her. She almost shrunk but tried to show herself as that powerful and prideful hunter, even if it looked almost wrong. A good face for the foreigners, let them know she's not scared. She has her hands free and can wreak a little havoc if she needs..
"I apologize," Aliset lowered her head. "But as much as you and he claim it, I am not his mother. I do love him, and I find him extremely capable. And I'll admit my bias had shifted. I will correct this. We shall see how Heinrich feels about the arrangement. Nevertheless, I made a promise to return Alloy unharmed and honorably to her people. It is my hope that the Drhuvian Collective sees our actions as a learning experience for all involved. Also. At Alloy's… I wouldn't say suggestion, but more how she showed a different path, I'd like your assistance with a personal project."
Raising her head, she offered a soft tilt of her head. "I am not Senti. I have no need for a Senti uniform. Would you assist me in the reclamation and recycling of my Shuristan diplomat's uniform? Folding its steel into a single ingot and destroying what cannot be recycled to better purpose. You, Heinrich, and Alloy. All of us, really."
“This sounds more like we are merely being asked to attend the act as witnesses. Is there some dear and special meaning to what you’re asking us, Aliset?” It was Jack who had addressed the topic this time, more out of curiosity, and an attempt to uncover more information on the request itself. He saw no harm in it, other then a slight hiccup in schedule, but it would only mean a small gripe from his sister.
Mark seemed to not think much of the request himself, but more in the fact that as her husband, it was a trivia matter. Quite rhetorical in having to think she needed to even ask, as he would be there regardless. “You are the closest one he has, his own long dead, and he needs a family. Much like we are there for each other, and as my wife, you know I will help how I can regardless. You being there to support him in that role, as I do you as a husband, is part of being a family. For some of our people, that is all they had left when they came here, and even some with nothing at all.”
The white haired of the two archdukes chose to speak again, adding one last thought on the topic Mark had raised. “Well said brother, the war was a price too great, and stitching wounds while healing hearts is essential. Even I have only begun to reconnect with my own family in recent months. Some are trying to find family wherever they can, and come together. I only ask for others to respect that and do their best.”
“My choosing to wear that suit is at least a portion of what caused this. Heinrich may not be my son, but he is still of my family, and I will do everything in my power to support him wherever he can, and I shall curb my own jokes on the matter.” Aliset offered a smile. “Besides. If all I needed was witnesses, I could have broken the suit down and videoed it. Those suits are well beyond my skill, and I could use some arcane and technical expertise to help pull apart the components. The technical expertise in space suits is something Alloy has, as does Heinrich. You two have the arcana experience to dismantle the Shuristan spellwork.”
“Yes, I can help you with your suit.” Alloy affirmed, though not terribly interested as Jack had more interesting matters. “War? How recent was this war?” She asked as just a bit of her tension eased away. She could participate and not feel guilty that it was about her wrong doings. For a nice city like this, though, there were hardly any signs of war. Even Ordesia who was so well funded for reconstruction still showed late symptoms of Berserker fury to this day. There were no signs of war, what does he mean?
Mark gave a small nod as the explanation was given, “The one with the most arcane knowledge is my brother, and our sister Armora. Though our knowledge pales in comparison to his. I do have some insight into space grade equipment, given my duties and position.” The comment seemed to make Jack uncomfortable, even if true, as his inherent knowledge was not a topic he spoke of often. The raven haired archduke however, still gestured to the white haired brother, as if in request that he add more.
“Well that is true yes, though we take a more scientific approach to the arcane. I’m sure Alloy’s practical knowledge of more traditional arcane arts will be more valuable in this situation. I would possibly suggest bringing in Armora’s mentor perhaps. Lady Orias, a… odd foreigner who seems to come and go as she pleases.” The last part of Jack’s statements seemed to bring about some mild annoyance, as the queen in question liked sticking her nose everywhere.
"I do not know magic." Alloy protested. "I know suits and their workings. I know Drhuvian armor." She looked down at her own dress, the stretchy layer of muscle she knew well like it were her own, the layer of power and wire that made the suit what it is and all of the gel that kept her cool and safe. "I can dissect the suit. I was trained to do so. I cannot handle 'magic'. It is still wild and beyond me."
Spark arrived at Alloy's elbow, gently placing the requested items down before disappearing as Aliset opened her mouth.
"Much of the arcane portion can be handled rather soundly. But the steel has to recognize family. Even then, based on how sometimes it hurts to look at Jack, I'm sure that overpowering it would be simple," she looked Jack in the eyes, quietly noting how it somehow didn't give her a headache. And now she could actually see his facial features, rather than like looking into a lightbulb. "Oh! You do look like brothers!"
"Can blame our mother for that. But all jokes aside, why are you staring at me like that? You act as if you've never seen me before." Jack seemed to take her look incredulously. He remembered that Iffni had looked upon him in much the same way back at the announcement of the gate project.
Mark only seemed confused as he could not perceive whatever it was, that they were staring at each other for. "Careful, she might come out of retirement to put a shock round in you. But yes, jokes aside, I see no reason we cannot help handle this task dear."
Alloy ceased her general looks back and forth between the dukes and the duchess, settling on Aliset. She didn't know much about Senti nor would she ever claim to in her right mind. But that… "You can see his face now?" Alloy questioned Aliset.
“Yeah, I mean, his hair’s still glowing, and it’s kinda bright, but I can sorta see details, now.” She shrugged, looking over to Alloy. “What? It’s not like my powers are fading and I’m about to be called an interloper by a mild deity.”
Spark leaned down next to Aliset, “Excuse me, Majesties, I have a meeting with the Grand General. I’ll be back later.”