Knights of Tezoth

Only the excess of today's celebration and the most important date of modern Tezoth — the birthday of Deus — could rival Calamention in beauty and grandeur. Nominally, it was a tribute to the ruler and a symbol of the kingdom's unity, but in reality it was so only for the capital's residents. While invited lords with their retinues basked in luxury and content Kanami citizens gave themselves over to solemn festivities, life in the other regions continued to flow as before — the noble warriors of Swordgard and Lamente still stood their watch, guarding the kingdom's peace from encroachments from the crater, but few cared about that. On the contrary — some of the defenders had been summoned here as unwilling participants in today's farce. That said, Alaria felt no negativity toward Mariarnelia — she herself was bound by the constraints of her status and, in a sense, was a hostage of the situation.

Having become a Knight of Catharsis relatively recently, the warrior had not participated in such events before — seeing the most influential people of Tezoth gathered under one roof was a first for her. Most of them she had never even seen in person. This was one of the reasons she favored her liege's approach — the position of a quiet observer who drew no undue attention suited her just fine.

There goes Carnea Caicunia Iretiret, fully living up to her notorious reputation. And there is Lord Adalard — likely the second most powerful man in the empire, after Deus himself — in the company of his son. Whether he is preparing the heir for high society or scheming to betroth him to the guest of honor in an effort to expand his influence. An expected and logical move — from the standpoint of political marriages, there aren't many better candidates. Clearly not something to be dismissed out of hand.

For the Tanarsian herself, the one who stood out most among them all was the local fanatic — Man of Sanbornia — but hardly in a positive light. There was something repulsive about that procession, as if even today's visit was used solely as an opportunity to praise his idol. At the same time, the absence of a knight in his retinue looked unusually suspicious. Given the opportunistic nature of the Lord of Sanbornia, this boded nothing good, especially for his neighbors.

One after another, the guests came and went, and for each of them the Knight of Catharsis made various notes in her mental journal, trying to remember their faces, habits, and bearing, not neglecting to observe even the escorts of the notable figures. You never know who your lord might decide to do business with in the future, or who might gain a new domain in a year or two.

That said, she did not forget to keep an eye on her own surroundings, staying close to Lord Cartridge like a vigilant guardian. Protecting her liege was still one of her direct duties, and Alaria had no intention of neglecting it.

While Alaria observed and pondered what was happening, one of the guests approached her. He seemed to be not very literate and, due to Lord Cartridge's plain attire, failed to recognize him as the ruler of the region.

- Knight of the Golden Coin, "Milord" Galaharadron! - He introduced himself, thumping his hairy chest. - I came up with this name myself, pretty awesome, right? Decided a plain name wouldn't have enough prestige.

- Perhaps. - Cartridge agreed without noticeable interest. - The ability to present oneself well is a valuable resource.

- You bet you bet! You get it, buddy!

- Speaking of getting things, I'd recommend not overindulging in the dishes, or else should the need arise, you might face difficulties of a survival nature.

- Ahahah! - The interlocutor shows a scar on his belly. - This gut has seen a lot, I'm no stranger to surviving dangers!