Lady Larizi’s Day Out
Drow noble Lady Larizi was standing in her chambers, looking at her clothing closet. She admired herself in the full-length mirror on the wall. Like all Drow she was dark-skinned and looked a lot like their mortal enemies, the elves. The similarities were what seemed to be strangely reversed though, where the elves had light skin, Drow had dark skin, and where the Elves had darker hair, Drow hair was white. Larizi smiled at herself in the mirror and saw two dimples in her cheeks which always caused the worst jealousy in her lesser sisters. Her sisters were lesser because Larizi was the first-born daughter and thus slated to rule her House one day. This was because the Drow people are a matriarchal society ruled by powerful matrons. Hierarchy and power in Drow society are determined by birthright and House affiliation. She was not sure which outfit would be the best fit for the audience she was planning to request with her Mother, Matron Verithra, who ruled the most powerful House in the city, House Meridias. The most powerful and noble Houses were the ruling elite, while lesser Houses and common Drow serve and obey their superiors. Intrigue, political scheming, and betrayal are common aspects of Drow life, with individuals often seeking to advance their own positions and gain favor with their Matron or House.
That is why Larizi surveyed her closet with a critical eye, taking in the shimmering silks and ornate brocade fabrics that hung neatly within it. She had always prided herself on her fashion sense, and today she knew that her outfit would be scrutinized and judged by the most discerning eyes in House Meridias, those of her Mother. Of course she would need to wear something with emerald accents, in order to show she was part of and respected her House, whose color was green. Usually a House’s color would be combined with black, to set the correct tone. After a long time choosing which clothing fit best, she finally settled on an intricately embroidered black and emerald-green gown that hugged her curves in all the right places. The fabric draped beautifully over her hips, cascading down to a floor-length hemline that was trimmed with delicate green lace. The bodice was adorned with glittering emeralds that caught the light, and her neck was adorned with an elegant silver chain, which held a deep emerald pendant. Once she was dressed, Larizi applied a light layer of makeup, emphasizing her white hair, grey-black skin, sharp cheekbones and full lips. She then proceeded to the Audience Chamber, where her Mother was waiting.
Matron Verithra sat on a high-backed throne, surrounded by her closest advisors and the most respected members of House Meridias. Larizi curtsied deeply before approaching her Mother, a mix of nervousness and anticipation welling up inside her. As she held her bow, her eyes met those of her Mother, whose face remained impassive. “Rise, my daughter,” Matron Verithra said, her voice cool and measured. “You look stunning in that gown. It is a worthy representation of our House.” Larizi felt a wave of relief wash over her as she stood upright. She had feared that her Mother would be displeased with her choice of outfit, and the thought of receiving criticism in front of such a prestigious audience was daunting. However, her Mother’s approval was short-lived, as she continued speaking. “But looks are not everything, my daughter. We have received word that House Calzada has been making moves to encroach upon our territories. They are rallying support from some of our own vassals, and we must act quickly if we are to maintain our hold on these lands.”
Lady Larizi felt a knot form in her stomach as her Mother spoke. She knew that this was serious business, and that House Meridias’s reputation was on the line. “What would you have me do, Mother?” Larizi asked, her voice steady despite the unease she felt. Matron Verithra smiled slightly, acknowledging her daughter’s composure. “You are our best diplomat, my dear. We need you to reach out to our vassals, and convince them to remain loyal to House Meridias. You must do whatever it takes to ensure that we come out on top in this conflict.” Lady Larizi nodded, understanding the importance of her task. She knew that she would have to be cunning and persuasive if she wanted to sway the vassals in their favor. With a deep breath, she gave her Mother a slight bow before turning to leave the Audience Chamber.
As she walked through the halls of House Meridias, Lady Larizi couldn’t help but feel an eagerness to prove herself to her Mother, and at the same time she was thinking about her chances to be able to go to the Surface. Maybe this mission would give her that ability once it was fulfilled. She knew that leaving before it was finished would be a very bad idea. As Larizi walked through the halls, her mind raced with thoughts of diplomacy and Surface life. She knew that the success of her mission would not only secure House Meridias’s territories but also earn her the recognition she needed to speak with her Mother on more personal matters. She would not be able to explain to her Mother why she wanted to go to the Surface though. Yet, she longed to experience the freedom of the Surface, but knew that that moment would not be soon.
Larizi made her way to her chambers, determined to begin her work immediately. She knew that time was of the essence, and that every moment she delayed could cost House Meridias dearly. As she entered her room, she began to prepare herself for the task ahead. She donned her finest robes and retrieved her diplomatic scrolls. She knew that she had to be at her best if she was going to convince House Meridias’s vassals to remain loyal. Larizi began her journey to the vassals’ territories, traveling for countless hours through treacherous terrain. She encountered many dangers along the way, from brigands attempting to rob her to unexpected landslides and rockfalls. But Larizi persevered, undeterred in her mission.
Finally, after days of travel, Lady Larizi arrived at the first vassal’s territory. She was greeted by the vassal’s council, who showed her to a grand hall where they would discuss the matter at hand. Lady Larizi took her seat at the far end of the table, facing the council. She unrolled her diplomatic scrolls and began to speak, using every ounce of her wit and charm to sway them in House Meridias’s favor. Hours later they were still discussing everything and when it became time to rest, they had not decided yet. Lady Larizi was a bit worried about sleeping at a vassal’s mansion, she had only her few guards to protect her. Larizi tried to hide her unease as she retired to her assigned chamber. She knew that her guards were skilled fighters, but she couldn’t shake the feeling of vulnerability that lingered beneath. As she sat on the edge of the bed, contemplating her next move, there was a knock on the door.
“Excuse me, Lady Larizi,” a voice called out from the other side of the door. “It’s your guard, Keth.” Larizi stood up and moved towards the door. “Yes, Keth. What is it that you need?” “I just wanted to offer you a word of caution, milady. The vassal’s council is known to be treacherous. They may not have House Meridias’s best interests at heart.” Larizi’s heart sank. She had suspected as much, but to hear it confirmed sent a wave of anxiety through her. “Thank you, Keth. I appreciate your concern. Please keep a close watch tonight.” “As you wish, milady,” Keth replied before retreating back to his post. Larizi’s mind raced as she tried to come up with a plan. She couldn’t risk sleeping with both eyes closed, not in a place where the council could be plotting against her. As she pulled the blankets up to her chin, she heard a faint rustling sound coming from the direction of the door. She sat up, alert, ready to defend herself if necessary. The door creaked open, and a figure stepped into the room. It was Keth, her guard. He closed the door behind him and moved very quietly into the room. He seemed to wait for a moment as if to hear she was asleep. Larizi prepared herself mentally for trouble as she acted asleep, breathing evenly and deeply, and preparing a spell at the same time.
But to her surprise, Keth didn’t attack. Instead, he moved silently to her bedside and waited there. Larizi’s eyes snapped open, and she sprang to her feet, her hand already glowing with arcane energy. “What is the meaning of this, Keth?” she demanded, her voice low and dangerous. Keth raised his hands in a gesture of surrender. “Please, Lady Larizi, do not harm me. I come to you as a friend, with information that might be of use to you.” Larizi relaxed her stance, but did not let her guard down. “What information do you have?” Keth took a step closer. “I have been keeping a close watch on the vassal’s council, as you asked. I have overheard some of their conversations, and I fear they are planning something against you.” Larizi’s heart sank even further. “What is it that they’re planning?” “I am not sure, but I believe they intend to use force to make you and your house submit to their will,” Keth said gravely. “I know of a secret passage that leads out of this underground city. We must take it and leave quickly before they have a chance to attack.”
Larizi considered Keth’s words for a moment before nodding in agreement. “Very well. Lead the way,” she said. Keth nodded and moved to the door, opening it cautiously to check for anyone in the hallway. Satisfied that it was clear, he motioned for Larizi to follow him. They moved quietly through the dark, winding passageways of the underground city, Keth leading the way and Larizi close behind, her senses on high alert for any sign of danger. As they made their way through the dimly-lit tunnels, Larizi couldn’t help but feel a twinge of sadness. She had always known that the task her mother had given her was a difficult one, but she had never imagined it would come to this – running for her life in the underground city she had called home for so long. But she knew that to survive, she had to keep moving forward.
After what felt like hours of walking, they finally reached the hidden entrance to the secret passage. Keth motioned for Lady Larizi to wait as he carefully inspected the area for any signs of danger. “All clear,” he whispered, motioning for Larizi to follow him into the passage. It was a narrow, cramped space with only enough room for them to walk single file. Larizi could feel the dampness of the walls against her skin and the earthy scent of the underground permeated her senses. She struggled to keep up with Keth’s pace, her long robes getting caught on the rough edges of the walls. Larizi followed closely behind Keth, their footsteps echoing softly off the walls of the tunnel. They walked in silence for what felt like an eternity, their only source of light the faint glow of luminescent mushrooms growing from the walls.
As they walked in silence, Larizi couldn’t help but wonder if Keth had betrayed her. She had trusted him with her life on more than one occasion, but the circumstances of their current situation were suspicious. Was he truly leading her to safety, or was he leading her into a trap? Larizi kept her guard up, ready for any sign of danger. Finally, they emerged from the tunnel and into a dimly lit cavern. Larizi’s heart sank as she saw the figure waiting for them in the center of the cavern – it was someone from House Calzada, the enemy of House Meridias. This was Vaelan, the first son of House Calzada, a powerful and ruthless Drow who had been at odds with Larizi’s mother for years. Larizi swallowed her fear, trying to keep her composure as she stepped out into the open space. Keth moved to stand to the side, not in front of her as he normally would, ready to protect her. Something was wrong.
The enemy Drow smirked as he approached them. “Well, well, well,” he drawled, his voice oozing with contempt. “Look who’s decided to grace us with their presence. Lady Larizi, I presume?” Larizi straightened her back and met Vaelar’s gaze. “You presume correctly,” she replied, her voice steady despite the fear gnawing at her insides. The enemy Drow laughed coldly, his eyes glinting with malice. “And what brings you to my humble abode, Lady Larizi? Have you come to pledge your loyalty to me instead?” Larizi stiffened at the suggestion. “I have not come to pledge myself to anyone, least of all to you.” She looked at Keth with a frown “I see I was too sure of your loyalty, or why else would you have brought me here, to my House’s enemies?”
Keth looked down, unable to meet Lady Larizi’s gaze. His sword hand trembled slightly and he took a step back. “I’m sorry,” he muttered, his voice barely audible. “They…they promised me power, Lady Larizi. More power than I could ever have under House Meridias.” Larizi’s eyes narrowed as she listened to Keth’s confession. Her trust in him was shattered, her heart heavy with betrayal. “And what of your loyalty to House Meridias?” she asked, her tone sharp. Keth shook his head, his expression pained. “It was never about loyalty, Lady Larizi. It was about survival. Under House Meridias, I was nothing more than a lowly guard. But with the enemy, I could have power, wealth, and status. They promised me a place at their side, a place of honor.” Larizi studied Keth for a moment, her mind thinking fast “And you think that an enemy who is willing to deal with oath breakers is actually going to follow their word and give you what they promised? I think not”.
She sighed and turned to Vaelan “So, what is your offer, Vaelan? Why have you brought me here?” she asked, addressing the enemy Drow. Vaelan smirked, his eyes raking over Lady Larizi’s form. “You are a beautiful woman, Lady Larizi. I could see myself enjoying your company in many ways,” he said, his tone oozing with smugness. Larizi recoiled at the suggestion, disgust etched on her face. “You are mistaken if you think I would ever lower myself to that level,” she retorted, her voice icy. “Now answer my question. Why have you brought me here?” Vaelan’s expression grew serious as he leaned forward, his eyes locking with Larizi’s. “Your House has something that I want. Something that could tip the balance of power in my favor,” he said, his voice low. “And you, Lady Larizi, are the key to acquiring it.” Larizi’s eyes narrowed as she listened, her mind racing to find a way out of this predicament. She knew that she had to be careful with her words, must choose them wisely to avoid giving away any information to the enemy.
“And what is it that you want, precisely?” she asked, her tone neutral, her eyes locked with Vaelan’s. He leaned back in his chair, a slow smile spreading across his face. “The artifact that your House possesses, Lady Larizi. The one that allows your Matron to control the tides and storms,” he said, his eyes never leaving hers. “With that artifact in my possession, I could become one of the most powerful Drow in the entire Underdark. And with you as my ally, I would be unstoppable.” Larizi felt a cold dread form in her stomach. The artifact that Vaelan was referring to was the Seastone Amulet, a powerful magical relic that had been passed down through generations in House Meridias. It was said to have the power to control the waters and weather patterns in the Underdark, making it an invaluable asset to any House that possessed it.
“I am afraid that is not something I can simply hand over,” Larizi said calmly, trying to hide her fear. and not outright denying him, she wanted to keep him guessing and maybe even assume she would be willing to betray her Mother, the Matron, and her House. “I understand that, Lady Larizi,” Vaelan replied, his eyes flickering with a dangerous gleam. “But I am not asking you to hand it over. I am asking for your help in acquiring it. With your diplomatic skills, you could sway your House to join forces with mine and together we could take on the other Houses of the Underdark and become the most powerful force down here.” Larizi raised an eyebrow, considering his proposal. It was risky, but if she played her cards right, she could use this situation to her advantage.”And what would I get in return for my assistance?” she asked, trying to sound nonchalant, but inside, she was already calculating her next move.
Vaelan leaned forward, his eyes burning with intense focus. “My wealth, my power, and my undying loyalty,” he said, his voice low and seductive. “And if you play your cards right, Lady Larizi, you could even rule by my side.” Larizi swallowed hard, knowing that this was a tempting offer. She had always dreamed of being a powerful leader, but not at the cost of betraying her House and everything she had been raised to believe in. But she was a skilled diplomat, and maybe she could find a way to turn this situation to her advantage. “Very well, Vaelan,” she said finally, her voice cool and steady. “I may be willing to assist you, but only if you can guarantee my safety while we work on this venture.” Vaelan nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. “Of course, Lady Larizi,” he said. “You have my word. Your safety is my utmost priority.”
Larizi nodded, her mind already working on a plan. She would assist Vaelan in acquiring the artifact, but only in a way that would benefit House Meridias. She would have to be careful not to give away too much information, and to keep her true loyalties hidden. As they made their way through the twisting tunnels of the Underdark, Larizi kept a close eye on Keth, her guard. He seemed to be watching her carefully, as if waiting for her to make a move. She couldn’t shake the feeling that something was off about him, that he was keeping something from her. But she pushed those thoughts aside, focusing on the task at hand. They arrived at a chamber where several magical items were kept by Vaelan’s House in order to spy on and look at other places and other Houses in the large underground city. Larizi’s eyes widened as she took in the sight before her. The magical items were more advanced than anything she had seen before. They would be of great use to House Meridias, and could give them a significant advantage over their enemies.
Vaelan stepped forward and gestured towards the largest of the items. “This item can show us anything that is happening in House Meridias” he said with pride. Larizi swallowed hard, she realized that she might have been spied on for months or even years. But she kept her composure and nodded. “Impressive,” she said calmly, her mind racing. She needed to get her hands on that item, or convince Vaelan to give it to her. “But how do you plan on using it?” she asked him. Vaelan’s smile widened. “We are planning to use it to gain an advantage over House Meridias,” he replied smoothly. “With this item, we will be able to anticipate their every move and strike before they have a chance to defend themselves. It will be the key to our victory.” Larizi frowned. She couldn’t let Vaelan keep such a powerful weapon for himself. She needed to come up with a plan to take it for her own House. “I see,” she said, trying to hide her eagerness. “But how do you plan on keeping it safe?”
Vaelan chuckled. “Don’t worry, my dear Larizi.” So it was on to familiar terms now. She would remember to play along. He continued, “We have safeguards in place to ensure that only those who are loyal to our cause can access it. And Keth here,” he gestured to her guard, “will ensure its safety.” Larizi glanced at Keth, who avoided her gaze. She knew he was the one who brought her here, to the very enemy she was supposed to negotiate with vassals for to be able to oppose them. She couldn’t believe she had been so blind to his betrayal. But she couldn’t let him see her doubts. She needed to be careful and gather as much information as she could. “I see,” she replied, nodding. “It sounds like you have everything under control.” As Vaelan continued to talk, Larizi’s mind raced with a plan. She needed to retrieve that item and get out of here without anyone suspecting her intentions.
As they walked through the halls of Calzada’s stronghold, Larizi noticed how heavily guarded the rooms were. She needed a distraction to be able to sneak out, but she knew that it wouldn’t be easy. Nevertheless, she was determined to do whatever it tookto achieve her goal.
The opportunity presented itself as they entered a large room with several guards stationed at the entrance. Larizi noticed that some of them were getting restless, fidgeting with their weapons and looking around nervously. She realized that they were likely bored. As they continued their stroll, Lady Larizi’s mind was working overtime. She knew that her guard Keth was in on the betrayal, but she couldn’t tell if anyone else was in on Keth’s plan. She needed to be careful not to arouse any suspicion. Suddenly, she heard a commotion outside the room they were passing. She rushed over to the door and looked out. “What’s going on?” she asked, curious. “It appears that there is a disturbance in the courtyard with people from your House, Meridias, Lady Larizi,” one of the guards replied. “We’ve been ordered to keep the area secure.” Larizi wondered if her absence was noted at House Meridias and if they had come to find out if she was still alive. Though that was unlikely unless someone knew about Khet’s betrayal. Still, Larizi saw her chance and quickly concocted a plan. “I understand,” she said. “I think they’re here to see if I am alive. Would it be helpful if I showed myself? ALways close to you brave guards, of course?”
The guards looked at each other hesitantly. They weren’t sure if they should trust a Drow from a rival house, but Larizi’s offer was tempting. “Very well,” one of them said finally. “But you must stay right next to us at all times.” Larizi nodded, grateful that her plan was working so far. She stepped out into the courtyard and was immediately struck by the chaos. A group of Drow from House Meridias were engaged in a heated argument with a group from House Calzada. There was another group on the side she vaguely recognized as being from House Zorva, a very minor vassal from her own House. She could see that it was only a matter of time before things turned violent. She took a deep breath and stepped forward. The other guards stepped with her.
But suddenly, Keth stepped forward from the group of Drow from House Calzada. Larizi’s heart sank as she saw him, her loyal guard, still a traitor. “Enough of this talk,” Keth said, his voice dripping with venom. “We all know why Lady Larizi is here. She’s trying to use her words to sway the vassals to her house’s cause, to weaken ours.” The tension in the air increased at Keth’s revelation. It seemed that everything Larizi had worked for was about to crumble before her eyes. She knew she had to act fast if she wanted to salvage the situation. “Keth, please,” Lady Larizi said, her voice barely above a whisper. “Do not do this. You have been with me for years. You know me better than this.” Keth’s expression didn’t waver. “I know enough,” he said. “And I know that you are not fit to lead House Meridias. Your mother is weak, and so are you.” Lady Larizi felt another surge of anger and deeper betrayal. How could Keth turn on her like this? But she couldn’t let her emotions get the best of her. She needed to think quickly and strategically.
“What do you want then, Keth?” she asked, trying to appeal to his reason. “What is it that House Calzada is offering you to betray me and House Meridias?” Keth’s lips twisted into a sneer. “Oh, it’s not just House Calzada but also House Zorva,” he said. “There are many who are dissatisfied with your Mother’s leadership, Lady Larizi. Many who see the potential for a stronger, more united faction under a different leader.” Larizi’s mind raced as she tried to come up with a plan. She knew that she couldn’t reason with Keth anymore. She had to assume that everyone in the room was against her. She knew that if she didn’t act fast, she would be done for. She surveyed the room, looking for any signs of weakness in her opponents. That was when she noticed it – the faint flicker of torchlight reflecting off a small object on Keth’s belt. She wondered if that had something to do with his unexpected betrayal? But how to get it off him to see?
Lady Larizi thought for a moment, then a grin appeared on her face. She knew exactly what to do. She slowly walked towards Keth, keeping her movements measured and calm.
“You’re right, Keth. House Meridias needs a new leader. And I know just the person who can lead us to victory,” she said, her voice low and steady. She stopped just in front of him, now only a breath away. “You. You would make an excellent leader, Keth.” Keth’s eyes widened in surprise, but Lady Larizi didn’t give him a chance to respond. Lord Vaelan started to move towards Keth in a hurry, and she realized he knew about the object and that she was about to remove it. But Lady Larizi was quicker. With a swift motion, she reached out and grabbed the small object from Keth’s belt, causing him to stumble back in shock.
It was a small, intricately carved dagger, its silver blade glinting in the torchlight. She quickly pocketed it, leaning in close to Keth once more. “But first, we must secure our victory,” she whispered, a note of triumph. Keth looked completely surprised and confused and then roared to lord Vaelan “What have you done to me!! Betraying my own House?” Larizi suddenly felt the overwhelming need to do anything Vaelan would ask or want. Her mind reeled, realizing the nature of the bespelled dagger. She had to act fast before Vaelan took total control of her mind. She barely had the strength of will to throw the dagger on the ground. The need to please Vaelan immediately vanished. She gave Keth a reassuring nod, silently thanking him for his help, and then clenched her fist as she took a step back from Vaelan who was gritting his teeth “You ruined my plan!! You bitch, I will show you what happens to anyone who crosses me!” Larizi was in a very precarious position now, with only one guard, and if Vaelan calls his guards she would be in serious trouble.
She hurriedly prepared a Silence spell to cast on Vaelan to prevent him from calling his guards. She was so very glad he chose his first words – after the dagger was removed – as a threat to speak angrily at her, instead of calling his guards. Larizi quickly whispered the spell of silence, and with an open palm, she released the spell in Vaelan’s direction, just as he opened his mouth, this time likely to call his guards. A wave of magic swept over Vaelan, and the words that had been forming on his lips stayed inside his head, unheard. As Larizi casts the Silence spell, Keth sprang into action. He drew his sword and moved to stand between Larizi and Vaelan. It was clear he came to his senses now. Larizi turns to Keth and says “Thank you, Keth, for standing by me.” Keth replies “It was the least I could do, Milady, after my betrayal.” Larizi appreciates Keth’s loyalty despite his previous mistake, but telling him that will have to come later.
How could she get out of Vaelan’s House now? Larizi knew she must act fast if they hoped to make it out of House Calzada in one piece. She quickly formulated a plan. She readied another spell, and Vaelan, who recognized the spell, was not able to do anything because he cannot speak, an important part of most magical spells. Vaelan moved towards the door, probably to start pounding on it, since he could not speak. But before he reached it, a Charm spell was cast on him. Larizi generally doesn’t use it in her diplomacy because it is only temporary, but in this case it was ideal. She asked Vaelan if he trusted her now, to be sure he was bespelled. When he owlishly nodded yes, she lifted the Silence spell. It was a risk, but one she would have to take. When Vaelan was charmed she ordered him not to call his guards and accompany them through House Calzada. Vaelan was so charmed by Larizi that he allowed her to take the scrying item that was focused on House Meridian.
They made their way out without being accosted and eventually made it out into the night. Keth was amazed at Larizi’s smoothness, and it was clear he was grateful. Once outside of House Calzada and far enough away that Vaelan can’t call any guards, Larizi released the Charm spell. She told Vaelan that Meridias will be warned about his actions and the plans of his House. When Vaelan realizes that he was Charmed he became very angry and drew his sword. Keth immediately moved between Larizi and Vaelan again and drew his longsword. The two fought in the near darkness, their blades clashing in a brilliant display of swordsmanship. Keth had been trained since he was a boy and his skill with the blade was unmatched. Vaelan, however, was no amateur either and soon Keth found himself hard pressed to keep up. Despite this, Keth kept up his guard, not wanting to give Vaelan the chance to hurt Larizi—or even worse, use her against him.
Larizi watched in awe as the two men fought with such skill and ferocity that it almost seemed like they were performing a dance. She knew that if she could only think of a way to help Keth defeat Vaelan then they might be able to escape this situation unscathed. Larizi cursed herself for not realizing what Vaelan was doing. He had been moving in a way that made Keth slowly circle, protecting himself in such a way that Vaelan came closer and closer to Larizi. Then suddenly he grabbed her and held his dagger to her throat. Keth froze, not wanting to risk making the wrong move and potentially injuring or even killing Larizi. The thought of losing his Lady on this quest filled him with dread. He glanced at Larizi, who stood still and silent, meeting his gaze with intense concentration. She seemed to be trying to communicate something without speaking or making any movements that would get them both killed.
Suddenly she spoke loudly, breaking the tense silence between them: “Vaelan! Listen carefully now,” she said sternly with absolute authority in her voice. “I have a proposition for you: if you let us go unharmed, I will make sure that your House is let off lightly for their actions this night. Your safety and that of your House are dependent on your decision.” Vaelan loosened his grip slightly but didn’t lower the dagger immediately; instead, he looked intensely at Larizi’s guard Keth, while thinking about what she said. Then finally he nodded slowly and moved away from them both, lowering his dagger as he did so. Keth quickly moved forward and placed himself between Vaelan and Larizi once more, sword drawn just in case it was needed again. “Well done,” Keth said with admiration as he looked over at Larizi who smiled gratefully at him before turning back to Vaelan – her expression determined yet composed – and saying, “Go now before anyone else arrives; or our truce is over.” Vaelan gave one last look at them both before vanishing into the night leaving behind only an echo of parting words: “Maybe one day, I will make you a marriage proposal, Lady. Until then, I bid you good night.
Keth watched Vaelan leave then turned to Larizi, who smiled softly. “No need to apologize for being charmed by our enemy,” she offered “it could have happened to anyone.” She said soothingly, even as she wondered if she would ever let the enemy of her house get that far. She would rather not find out. “Thanks for the help back there,” she said. Keth couldn’t help but smile back as he nodded and replied, “No problem, I’m just glad you could talk him down. You’re really good at that sort of thing, you know,” he said with a wink. Larizi laughed before saying “Yes, it is something my Mother taught me. I’m just glad it worked this time. Shall we continue on to the House?” Keth nodded and the two of them set off into the night.