EPISODE 226: WAY OF THE WORLD 2

— Federation of Farya, Year 7293. Season: New Beginning.

Sunlight streamed down on the snow-covered land of the Federation. It covered a land of nearly three and a half thousand kilometers from top to bottom, and at its widest point, a border shared with the Edryan Queendom, its width was nearly two thousand kilometers. A width that only decreased as it neared the dagger's end.

A sole temple stood at the tip of the continent's end, a match for the one that stood at its height. The Temple of the Moon was grand but far smaller in comparison to its twin. At its height stood several figures, with two, a male and female, standing shoulder to shoulder as they gazed over the world's end. Their vision seemed to pierce past the surging sea and into the sky beyond. Behind the pair was a young dwarf who stroked a short beard. His age wasn't as great as his elders, whose longer beards were oiled down and shining. Their length expressed not only their age for both male and female Giant Dwarves, but their wealth and more, as the jewels and carved objects presented told of their clan, history, and conquest throughout life.

The young dwarf's short beard was stuffed with trinkets—many of them were military or leadership related—a bronze roaring lion, a silver trident piercing through krakens, and more, but the greatest of them all seemed to be a golden abacus with diamonds for beads, which the young Giant Dwarf continued to fiddle with.

The Giant Dwarves were a mutated species of dwarfism. Unlike their smaller cousins, these dwarves held the body of the average dwarf but not the height. The youngest of them already stood at a height of 183 centimeters, while the greatest neared 250 centimeters. They were Giant Dwarfs—a species of dwarfism descending from the Sea Giants that once roamed the oceans below. They, however, shared the same tendencies to reside on the ground like their smaller cousins. That tendency didn't mean they were adverse to the sea—far from it, but if they had to choose a preference, then their vast cities, stationed a kilometer under the surface, would be chosen.

There were thirteen figures in total, excluding the male and female pair that stood at the height of the Temple of the Moon. Each silently waited in hope for the words of command to emerge directed at them. It was only the closest that continued to caress his abacus, unmarred from the worry that his peers felt.

"It seems we have company," an ancient-sounding masculine voice said. The voice was like gravel rubbing together. It was deep but soothing in the way the words jumbled out. Before any of the dwarves could respond, the voice continued. "[Arbitrator] Ninjaro, you will be in charge. You have continued to display excellence since being rewarded. It was your calculations that forewarned us and expedited our takeover of the Principality and Merchant Republic. And, it was your careful measurements that allowed us to know when to proceed and retreat as we integrated our conquered foes."

[Arbitrator] Ninjaro bowed, deeply . There was worship in his eyes, and his gaze slipped to the male figure. "Thank you, Demigod Isiro-"

Before Ninjaro could continue, the Demigod spoke. "Nonsense, call me grandfather. You have earned that right."

"Yes, grandfather," Ninjaro spoke in satisfaction before he continued his original thought. "I am certain I can use this opportunity to help us better understand the magi and their [Chosen]. Many tales of their [Golden Age] have reached our ears—allow us to see if they hold any truths."

"Good," Isiro said, waving his hand.

Demigod Isiro hadn't turned around, but Ninjaro could hear the smile in his voice. He could also sense the malice from several Federation clan leaders behind him. No matter, he was in control of 65% of the Federation through simple calculations alone. The rest would fall in line, or they would be factored out of the equation.

Ninjaro turned, taking the dismissal for what it was. The rest turned to follow him as he passed. Just as they were leaving the large hall, Ninjaro caught the words of Demigod Isiro.

"My dear, keep watch over them."

"Of course, darling."

The Edryan airship convoy had reached their borders a few days ago, and their arrival was expected shortly after processing by the border guards. Ninjaro had calculated a visit two years ago from the rumors and information he gathered on the [Chosen of Madris]. No matter the embellishment by the magi, every story had a word or truth. Ninjaro was able to calculate what was what from the gathered information.

Ninjaro left the Temple of the Moon, surrounded by strong guards double his level, as he returned to his manor in preparation. The Temple of the Moon was surrounded on three sides by a grand city split into thirteen districts. The former capital of the Principality had been expanded thrice over into a bustling capital full of mixed citizenry and history. Formerly known as Ardon, the city where the magi would shortly arrive was named Faria. The Ibadan clan was rich in history, ability, and more. Their heritage claimed them as the first son of Farya, the only child of Isiro who had descendants. Those descendants emerged as the thirteen clans of the Federation of Farya, each taking on the names of their children who initially began the clan under the leadership of an [Arbitrator].

Snow still covered the city, and mixed gazes watched the large sprawling city that held buildings of highs and lows. The E.Q.S. Sanctuary was under escort by airships of the Federation. They had been delayed by the airships as their speed didn't quite match up with the highest cruising speed of the prototype ship.

Viviana was dressed in travel clothes, with fitted jeans covering her ample bottom and heeled boots that slightly increased her height. She wore a fitted uniformed shirt with the emblem of the nation on her back and a small one of her family on its front. She pulled at the clothes, a bit unused to them but finding them comfortable nevertheless. Simple jewelry decorated her hair, hands, and neck. It was enough to show a magi's wealth, but not enough to appear gaudy with her current outfit. The other envoys dressed similarly to her, their clothes styled and tailored for the journey.

Viviana's forest green eyes landed on Faria. They carefully observed the large capital, taking in its more measured layout into mind. The construction of a city said a lot about those in charge. Take the Home of Heroes, Edrya, for example. Edrya had been remodeled from what it once was, with community gardens present on the roofs of every apartment building. There were parks and gardens available with statues and carvings of not just the Goddess, but figures of importance in the city's history. This style and design was because of Lawruthian, and bringing forth the nature aspect was something Viviana appreciated very much. It wasn't fully like home, like Vinya her family's city, which incorporated as much of nature as they could into it. Yet the city was close enough to nature that it gave the young woman a feeling of appreciation.

It showed Lawruthian's mind held gentleness to it and that he could live in harmony with the world around him. Faria was the opposite. It was ordered, calculated , in most areas of the city. Although from an aerial view, Viviana could see that thirteen distinct pie-like slices were set forward, all facing a temple that sat on a hill overlooking the city.

"Home of the demigod, Isiro," Viviana whispered. "A bit ugly."

"It's different from home, different from Edrya," Ade Oni responded, catching the whispered voice of Viviana. Should she have wanted no one to hear her, then she would have kept it to herself in the first place. Although the New Greats were perhaps the lowest leveled individuals on the ship, they had far exceeded the limits of commoners and even renowned middling houses in terms of attributes.

"I think it's quite nice," Amaya stated, arms folded as she looked through the window. "It shows attention to detail, and nothing seems out of place."

Viviana shook her head, disagreeing. "It has far too much attention to detail. Nothing in nature—nothing holds perfection outside of the Gods. This wishes to replicate perfection, but it pushes out everything else. Even their mage towers," Viviana gestured to one in the distance. "Perhaps different in stylistic design, but they occupy the same space in equal distance measures. It's ugly . At least Edrya uses a pattern that incorporates the world."

Helios grunted, his tone leaning toward agreement. His eyes scanned the city as they neared. Its size rivaled Edrya in length and perhaps population density as well. The Edryan capital city had grown to hold nearly eight million people regularly, far greater than the previous five million it had boasted prior to the change in government. From the heights and what little Helios could sense, Faria rivaled their home.

The ship slowed, nearing a region of cleared land where stations meant for airships to dock were placed. Helios could see a procession waiting for them, not too far from the station where Sanctuary descended.

It was time to find out if Faria and her people held true in their rivalry.

Mojo's beady eyes narrowed as the Edryan vessels descended. A large hairy hand with naturally red hair stroked the dwarf's matching beard. Several gems and jewels were decorated into the beard, but none of his achievements were beyond silver, although many had hints of gold. The Giant Dwarves held a simple measurement of achievement—bronze, silver, and gold. Of course, each tier held different qualities and nuances, but having any fully golden object within their beard meant a highly decorated action had occurred for them to achieve it. These actions could range from military exploits, mass improvements to their technology or population, and other great things of value. And, should there be gems littered in the object, then their favor to Demigod Isiro was ever higher.

Mojo Kano of the head clan Kano stood next to Asan Yola, head of clan Yola. The GD was large, a few sizes larger than his cousin, and his voice was like shifting sands in a desert wind. Pelting to those unused to its rough exterior but welcoming to those who belonged to the desert. "Hmph, Demigod Isiro favors Ninjaro far too much, yet the mutt doesn't even have the decency to greet his guests as they emerge from a long trip."

Asan remained silent next to his much paler, taller cousin. His hands remained behind his back as his eyes narrowed on the procession emerging from the ship. He spoke only after he spotted what he believed to be the head of the Edryan diplomatic envoys. "Perhaps this is another one of his calculations," Asan mocked. "And we, like fools, are falling into it. Yet… even so, we must act now. If we are to steal the favor of… gran," Asan halted as his cousin gave him a warning look. "Demigod Isiro, then perhaps we shall be left in charge once he leaves to ascend."

There was a new generation in charge of the thirteen clans. The conquest of the Principality of Ardon and the Merchant Republic of Koi served as a battlefield for the young scions of the thirteen clans to emerge as the next leaders of the newly emerging world. The demigod has issued an order forcing the previous clan heads to vacate and giving a chance to all young leaders of their clan to become the next head and gain experience. Thirteen had emerged victorious, with the cousins becoming the respective leaders of their clans and the Federation's council.

Mojo's eyes aligned on the young magi at the head of the procession. Her magenta hair was striking but not too unusual for what he'd seen of humans. Although the magi claimed themselves different, biologically they were nearly the same as their cousins. The only difference is their crystallized hearts.

Asan followed Mojo's gaze and chuckled. "That is Amaya Musa, sister of one of the new Edryan demigoddesses. I've heard little about her other than her status as a [Hero]. The [Chosen of Madris] light is far too bright for the outstanding talents of Edryan to easily be seen."

Mojo grunted in response, his eyes traveling to the other members of the group. "These children of their former heroes… who is it we should be focused on. Who is strong, who is weak?"

Asan removed a comb and carefully slicked back his hair. It was a habit of his when in deep thought. The GD followed his cousin's example in surveying the young magi. "Of their warriors, it is the three males to be wary of. One is of House Drumian, nephew to their former hero. The Drumians [Spell-Swords] are not to be underestimated. The others are of House Romus and Oni. The latter would be the tougher challenge as his Chi restricts all. The females," Asan shrugged, gently patting his hair down. "They are of little regard."

Mojo grunted in understanding. "Should we invite Aiesha?"

Asan scoffed. "And have her steal the credit? I think not."

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The sun continued its descent in the sky, and the moon began its rise. The primary moon, its color white and blue, was full. The rest, gold where the Gods reside, and red, whose properties are unknown, constantly remained full throughout the year.

Helios studied the city from his vantage point. The magi found themselves on a large estate on the eastern side near the city's center. They did not speak much as they waited for the all clear from Mariam, Lily, and the rest of the Queen's Lashes. Helios shook his head, they were the CIA now. The merger between the former organization and the Monarchy branches Central Imperius Authority was completed late last year. New classes, skills, and abilities merged into something new and greater.

"Youn-," a maid began to say before halting. "[Citizen] Helios, the estate is cleared and [Citizen] Amaya has called for a meeting on the western wing."

Helios waved his hand in acknowledgment. That was another thing he wasn't used to. He stayed by the window for several more moments before turning as a new figure entered the room, and he met the gaze of his sister.

Selene Romus held a certain light in her eyes as they met those of her twin. "I think something interesting will happen tonight. We need to plan."

Helios recognized that light, one that hadn't made its way to the forefront for a long time. He brightened immediately. Selene was always the better schemer of the pair. "What's going on," he responded, curious.

"Let's leave first, I'll explain it on the way."

The pair left, escorted by maids and a few Royal Guards. Selene's back straightened, and she began to explain to her twin. "The Federation of Farya is under the rule of thirteen clans. They've ousted the former leadership of the Principality and Merchant Republic, killing those who fought to the end while keeping a few in power. A power divided and split into thirteen."

Helios nodded. "I've read the documents."

"Then you should also understand that these thirteen [Arbitrators] are far from unified. They are a council, yes, and usually govern as such under the guidance of Demigod Isiro. Currently, they have three political factions. The Abacus, the Fist and Raven, and the White Wall. The latter two are the weaker parties and usually ally against the Abacus, led by Ninjaro Ibadan."

Helios waved a hand in understanding. He read through the documentation and knew who the figures of importance were from the provided descriptions. The Fist and Raven were led by a pair of cousins and were known to be in charge of the second-largest faction. The White Wall was a sole Giant Dwarf, said to be a stubborn woman who refused to give way. The pair continued to converse as they entered a large hall, the rest of the New Greats and those of importance were already seated, quietly discussing amongst themselves.

"Of the two, who do you think will make a move first? And, how can we use them to our advantage," Selene quizzed.

Helios frowned, pulling his sister's seat back before taking his. He wasn't a strong strategist like his sister, but he decided to indulge her anyway. "Likely the Fist and Raven."

"Why," Selene followed up, placing a finger on her chin.

"The White Wall is isolated and stubborn from what the CIA has gathered. She has purposely chosen self-isolation rather than conforming to one or the other," Helios noncommittally waved his hand. "There is no point in believing she would be the first party to make a move. The Fist and Raven have no choice but to."

Standing against the wall, a woman smiled. "Interesting."

Before Selene could respond, Amaya stood and clapped her hands, gathering the attention of all present. She turned her gaze to Mariam and Lily, the former gave her a nod as she spoke. "The estate is clear of any spies and recording devices. Surprisingly, few were placed—it is suspicious, but Demigoddess Margret has given us a few ward plates with anti-spying features. Should there be any devices, then they shall soon cease functioning."

The woman against the wall looked down at the large plate she stood on. "So, that's what you are," she mused. "A few dozen levels beneath what is necessary."

"Good, thank you, Mariam," Amaya stated before turning her attention to everyone else. "I called this gathering so that we may better understand our mission and purpose now that we've arrived at our first destination. Our objective is simple: an invitation to Great Edryan during the summer of 7294. It has been decades, nearly a century, if not longer, since Great Edryan has taken a broader interest outside the nation."

Ade Oni folded his arms as he listened. He didn't much care for the boring details, but he knew the importance of understanding their objective and representing the magi's might. Viviana sat next to him, her attention focused. This was the first time the magi returned to the grand stage. Viviana could not let this opportunity go to waste.

"Please remain cordial, but expect a challenge," Amaya directly gazed at Ade Oni.

"Should they directly challenge us, do not expect me to back down," he simply said.

"I don't," Amaya shook her head. "Should any challenge you, do not fail in showing them the might of an Oni."

"The Federation is our test of sorts. We are unsure largely of how the world shall react to the magi retaking the stage. We were sent here first as it is close to home. This is a test for us, and should we pass, then expect a greater task in the future. What we control is our own reactions—it does not matter how they interpret it, but the matter is how we present it," Amaya stated. She turned her gaze to Selene and Helios Romus. "Selene, if you may."

Selene nodded, standing as she began to speak. "The Federation has primarily finished its consolidation of the Principality and Merchant Republic. But," she paused, glancing around. For a moment, she thought she saw someone standing across from her. Selene shook her head and continued. "It isn't cohesive. It's three parties that conflict with themselves for greater control over the nation."

Lorde chuckled, "Not so different, are they?"

Amaya frowned, then smiled. She chuckled good-naturedly. "Not unless you prefer women with beards."

The group laughed, and Selene continued. "Our host of the three is the Abacus, led by Ninjaro Ibadan. We have a rapport with him as General Alexandria worked with him several times in her campaign as a mercenary for the Federation. We are scheduled to have a meeting in the late evening of the over-morrow as he has invited us to a banquet. Ninjaro is…" Selene paused, seemingly gathering her words. "Mysterious. We know him to be a smart, decisive leader from what General Alexandria has shared, but his motivations and whatnot remain a mystery."

Selene turned her attention back to Amaya. "Our task is-," Amaya paused. The group's gaze traveled to the door as a servant entered. They bowed before speaking.

"[Arbitrator] Mojo and [Arbitrator] Asan are outside the estate requesting an audience."

Amaya's eyes narrowed, and she glanced at Mariam, her words slowly coming to a close. "To gather information as we visit the city's sights."

"How audacious," the woman smiled. "Things should get interesting."

Mariam nodded. The Spymistress was in charge of guiding the NGs. She was particularly taking an active role as they visited their first few countries. Afterward, she would play hands off and allow the group to come to their own decisions.

"Please, allow them entry," Amaya stated. "Selene," she began.

"I understand," the young woman responded before Amaya could finish.

This was an unexpected surprise, but it wasn't something the magi were completely unprepared for. They had been prepped throughout the months that they would be used as political pieces on someone else's chessboard. It seemed the first movers and shakers had a desperation about them, or perhaps it was a boldness. Regardless, the NGs fixed their postures and attitudes as they waited for the guests to arrive.

The Giant Dwarves entered with undisguised bravado. The magi stood, giving courtesy to their guest. The two Arbitrators led the pack as roughly eight large dwarves entered the room behind them, all armed. Helios sized them up, as did Ade Oni. It would be rude and downright hostile to inspect them, but gaining a measure of their strength through Intent was only natural. They relaxed as they sensed a similar strength from the two leading.

"Welcome," Amaya stepped forward, her eyes met those of a redheaded dwarf. "[Arbitrators]. Your visit was unexpected. Please, give us a few moments to introduce you to a few of the magi's refreshments."

Amaya smiled politely and waved the dwarves to empty prepared seats that were promptly ignored.

"Haha," Mojo boomed. "We dwarves believe in getting straight to the point, especially at this late hour," his eyes roamed away from Amaya, his disdain unhidden. "While we appreciate the offer of your... 'refreshments,' we've come with a specific purpose in mind. We understand you are envoys of the [Chosen of Madris]. Pray tell, why has the magi visited our lands in such an… auspicious time?"

Amaya frowned, but it quickly went away. An action that was mimicked by every New Great. Ade Oni stepped forward as did Helios, both halting just behind Amaya. The dwarf's accent in Common was thick but not unintelligible.

"Our talks are to be with [Arbitrator] Ninjaro. It would be better to discuss things during the banquet."

"No need, we have been assigned to meet and discuss with you," Mojo scoffed. "You can directly state your business with us."

Amaya smiled politely, her eyes turning into crescents. "I'm afraid I haven't heard of this change. Allow us-"

Mojo interrupted, cutting her off before she could continue. "I'm telling you now, or do you believe an [Arbitrator] of the Federation to be a liar?"

The dwarves behind Mojo clutched at their weapons, and the two magi behind Amaya shifted, as did the guards stationed around the room. The two [Arbitrators] in the front were strong but not at the level of late two-hundreds. Ade felt their strength to be near his, which meant that they were in the early hundreds. Their guards, however, were not.

Amaya's smile grew wider, her pearly whites on display. "Well then," she stated. "We are here to invite your nation's representatives to the Sovereignty And Federal Enterprise—a grand discussion for our Elrunian Continent to resolve… issues before they spiral as the [Path of Apotheosis] opens. It will be hosted in the first week of Central as summer arrives. We expect your attendance at this grand event."

" Hmph , acknowledged. You magi may pack your things and leave— now ."

The room took on a deadly stillness as Amaya didn't respond immediately. Instead, her crescent eyes grew deeper until it nearly appeared like her eyes were closed.

"No, I don't believe we will."

This time, the silence extended from the side of the [Arbitrators], a silence broken by a scoff of a redheaded magi, Ade Oni.

The eyes of Mojo fixed onto the young magi behind Amaya, but he was not the one to speak as the second [Arbitrator] made their presence known.

"Perhaps you misunderstand our customs, Magi. Here in Farya, when a guest refuses a host's directive… it is seen as a deliberate insult. One that often requires… a demonstration to rectify. We have cleared our evening for you. Shall we begin your education in Faryan hospitality… tomorrow at dusk?"

Ade Oni chuckled, speaking before Amaya could. "I don't like your tone."

Mojo smiled. "Then, allow us to introduce you to Faryan hospitality . We will see you tomorrow at the Awni Pavilion—let us see if the magi's magic holds the fame your people so graciously boast about."

"Good," Ade responded. "Allow us to understand this Faryan hospitality."

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