There is a light ringing sound as an unseen is rung via a cord pulled by the guard out in the hallway. "Sky Corporal Elise de Bellefeuille here to see you, Arch-Inquisitrix," comes the muffled voice of Captain Shimei through a voice-tube set in the wall.

Esther leans back in her chair. "Send her in, Shimei," she calls out. "And have Yellow-Tail bring us some tea, would you?"

"At once, Arch-Inquisitrix!" the voice-tube replies, and the door cycles open, revealing Esther's visitor out in the corridor.

A Savanite servant quietly shuffles into the room, bearing a tray with a pitcher of steaming hot tea, some cups, and the usual accessories – evidently anticipating the request in light of the arrival of a guest. The tray is set on a folding stand next to Esther's desk.

A tall poodle woman in the garb of a Rephidim Guard officer strides into the room not long after the Savanite enters. When she reaches a few steps from Esther's desk she snaps into a Star and Anchor salute. "Arch-Inquisitrix, ma'am," she greets the Inquisitrix.

The Savanite bows, and pauses a moment there.

Esther flashes a polite smile and nod to the Savanite, then turns to the poodle. "Sky Corporal Elise… at ease. Please, have a seat. Tea is ready, if you'd like some."

The cheetah quietly glides out of the room, and the door cycles shut, leaving the Arch-Inquisitrix and the Sky Corporal alone.

Elise drops from the salute on command before moving towards the nearest chair, carefully adjusting the position of her sword scabbard before taking a seat. "Thank you, Arch-Inquisitrix," she says, nodding faintly. "I would like some tea." She does not however reach right away, preferring to wait for the Inquisitrix to serve herself first.

Esther, noting Elise's hesitation, reaches for the tray and pours herself tea. "Your files have been prepared for me, so I'm already familiar with your record. But I'd like to hear from you what you believe your accomplishments are."

Upon seeing Esther has served herself, Elise reaches and pours herself some tea as well. Plain, nothing added. She sips once from her cup before speaking. "My accomplishments, Arch Inquisitrix, as I see them, begin with my performance within the Officers' Academy. As I am certain my record states, I had graduated in the top ten percent of my class despite entering the Academy later than most. My graduation then has allowed me to serve the Temple and maintain my family despite our tragedy. I now serve in my father's stead, and am quite proud of this," replies Elise before she pauses, waiting for any questions that may be asked regarding what she has said thus far.

Esther nods. "Go on."

"Following that, the troublesome events at what once was the College Esoterica: Apprentice Envoy and myself successfully defeated a earth golem and defended the lives of a few people present. I do not wish to brag of this, but it is important to me." The poodle considers for a moment before continuing. "Following that would be the successful defense of the airship Tribulation while it was under heavy enemy attack, which occurred but recently."

Esther folds her hands in front of her mouth. "You are clearly a brave and skilled warrior, Corporal de Bellefeuille. You are a credit to the Academy and to the Air Guard."

"I thank you for your compliment, Arch-Inquisitrix," says the poodle quite formally. "It is my wish that my father would not rest with the First Ones knowing none were left to continue – "

Esther sits forward suddenly. "But why does a soldier such as yourself want to join the Inquisition? And what do you believe your qualifications are for that position?"

The sudden forward movement causes Elise to pause in her speech, and she drops it completely in favor of answering the new question. "I am not a soldier," she responds simply at first with a nod before going on. "That is to say, I do not see my full potential being used as a soldier. The times have also changed. I wish to be of more use to the Temple, and once I learned there was a position open within the Inquisition, I decided that now would be my chance to serve the Temple that much better. I am fluent in proper Rephidim Standard, Gallisian, Khattan, Nagai, and Eeee. I have been taught etiquette by one of the finest schools to be found on Sinai. And I was also the one who through personal investigation saw to the exorcism of Sanguine Hall, which I would assume you know."

"Yes … an interesting case, that," muses the Arch-Inquisitrix. "Well, if you are not a soldier – or more correctly put, not only a soldier – then I take it you have some idea of what you'd be doing if I were to hire you as an Investigator?"

The poodle's head nods. "I have reviewed the position in my free time aboard the Tribulation as well as during my extended shore leave, which I am currently on," answers Elise.

Esther says, "Well, then. What do you see yourself doing in your new job?"

"Investigating matters of concern, wherever I am sent. I have no ties here that would keep me from traveling." Another sip of tea is taken before the cup is lowered and the Gallee watches its waters stir from the movement. "It is a troubled time. I do not wish to be stationed on a distant airship, relatively safe. Relatively useless. I wish to be more active in serving my country."

"Ha!" exclaims Esther. "A fresh bundle of martial skills, exquisite and formal manners, and enthusiastic patriotism. That's a good start." She pauses, then leans back in her chair. "Allow me to explain to you what the Inquisition is all about, Elise."

Esther says, "The Inquisition is all about information. We gather it, collect it, organize it, analyze it, and distribute it according to the needs of the Temple. We investigate crimes and keep track of criminal and subversive elements. We interview Exiles and allow them to live productive lives. We investigate Forbidden Zones and other sites, and relay vital scientific data to the Technopriesthood. We uncover and analyze the secrets of Rephidim's enemies… and friends. With all this information at its disposal, Rephidim can make wise decisions in war and peace."

Esther says, "Because we deal in so many different kinds of information, we need many different sorts of people to help us collect it. We need warriors, detectives, travelers, diplomats, socialites, burglars and other rogues, scientists and academics, mages, and able administrators. No race, sex or background is off limits. The qualities that unite the Inquisition run far deeper: absolute loyalty to the Temple, and total obedience to all lawful commands of the Captain-Astromancer and one's chain of command."

Esther says, "Would you care to guess why I'm allowing you this interview?"

"Because your information shows me to be capable. Yes?" responds Elise, her head tilting slightly.

Esther holds a finger in the air. "No, not quite. There are 'capable' people all over the Temple and not one of them is fit to work for me." She sips her tea and continues. "It's because, where the opportunities have presented themselves, you have shown the ability to break the mold. Your initiative is what interests me."

Elise places the cup down upon the serving tray and returns her hands to her lap, folding them neatly. "I have tried to do what I can, when I can. I have little else but Temple life, and that was my decision. I do not regret it at all. And I do wish to see my life as a most productive one," mentions the Corporal.

Esther says, "Well, in order to be productive, you will need to think independently, and, I might add, often. Military training in particular tends to squash independence and individuality, Elise; I'm sure you know that. But when you are investigating a crime scene, or acquiring information in the field, you will need to think for yourself, because you will be on your own. And that's what makes you different from the rest. You investigated the Sanguine Hall haunting completely on your own. You weren't afraid to bend the rules in order to do what you knew was right. You could simply have notified your superiors and left it alone; but no, you had to know the truth."

"I was not particularly fond of seeing my good will used against me, or my fellow students harmed. No, I most certainly do not like being a puppet," says Elise with a confirming nod. Her hands unfold and she reaches over to trace a nail across her sword hilt. "As amusing as it may sound, I saw my own family line in Sabel's. Perhaps there was some vanity in it as well." She looks up again. "But I needed to know. And there was no one else who would help, or believe me. Ghosts and old duels for a sword. No, only I could have dealt with it, otherwise it would have been forgotten and Sabel would have killed someone else. Quite soon I had imagined, she was set to reenact the duel with me. Or if not me, another."

Esther says, "So what you're saying is that you will go to any length to discover the truth and establish justice. Is that right?"

"Yes, of course Arch-Inquisitrix," responds the poodle with nod. She lifts her hand from against her sword and folds her hands quite properly again. "So long as the risk is necessary, the chase not obsessive or foolish, and justice the goal. Then yes. Whatever it takes, at whatever price."

"Even if you have to get your hands dirty… ?" The Arch-Inquisitrix makes a sweeping motion to the part of the room behind Elise's back, where the interrogation chair sits. Its shiny surfaces glint a bit in the candlelight, its many leather straps hanging limply.

The poodle turns her head to regard the chair and the instruments around it for a long moment. After the moment has passed, her ear flicks and she lifts a hand from her lap to consider it as well. "My hands are already dirty, Arch-Inquisitrix," she replies before again looking to the woman across from her. The beginnings of a grin form at the edges of her muzzle. "Discovering who exactly owned Sanguine Hall was not cheap."

Elise settles back in her chair once again. "Nor were the lives of those people who I protected."

Esther nods grimly. "There are two ways for an Inquisitor to go to Dagh. One is to hate that chair, and the other is to love it. As long as you take this to heart, you will do well."

Sky Corporal Elise eyes the chair for a moment more. "I cannot say I look forward to utilizing it, but, if I did not accept that I would some day be called to put it to use, I would not be here today." She regards the Jupani again and nods firmly to her. "I accept it, and I understand your words."

"Good. Now, there is one other thing I must address," Esther states. "What do you know about me, Corporal?"

There is another ear flick from the poodle as she thinks about this for a moment. The fact that it takes her a moment more than usual to respond to such a short question suggests she did not expect it. "We have met once before, Arch-Inquisitrix. You were at the Century Ball held in the Bazaar. You, well … ," she smirks slightly, " … noticed my observation of the Lancer Eclipse. You later asked Arch-Inquisitor Majoris Melchizedek to dance, and returned when there was a commotion. I stepped in to present myself if I was needed, and looked rather silly in the process. I also believe you wished me a happy New Year." She considers for a moment longer and goes on. "You are the first female Jupani to attain the rank of Arch-Inquisitrix, and were a key player in discovering the ex-Arch-Inquisitor Moffat as a traitor. Also, you are the official Liaison to the Knights Templar."

Esther smirks. "Yes, I remember meeting you. Shame that you lost your handsome young escort to a pompous Kujaku." She continues, "Anything else?"

The poodle waves her hand in dismissal. "I used to see a great many number of those sorts. Constantly after my hand, so that they could put theirs on my fortune. I tell you, Temple duty is wonderful for destroying one's social life. For that, I am thankful," she says as her smirk grows a little more, but is soon allowed to fade as she considers the question. "No, ma'am. That is the extent of what I was able to find. Arch-Inquisitor profiles are simply not on display for Guard viewing."

Esther sighs. "Well, then, I'll be direct. Back in the Academy, you signed the original petition for Proper Veneration of the First Ones. I am one of the chief opponents of that movement."

"I … see. Well, I am not quite certain what to make of this," says Elise.

Esther says, "Let me tell you why I oppose the movement. Flippant persons might accuse me of heresy, but I assure you I don't have enough theological acumen to formulate a heresy worth believing." She smiles grimly. "Or of betraying the Temple, which is manifestly false, as anyone can see from my flawless record of service. I live and die for Rephidim just as you do."

A nod from the Gallee. "I would not dare question your motives, Arch-Inquisitrix. Please, go on?"

"Let me put it to you this way," Esther posits. "A man, a faithful servant of the Temple and a believer in the Star, has his children in Temple Scouts. His children are reprimanded for their religion and so the man pulls his children out and educates them privately. Tell me, what are your feelings about this man? Be honest."

Esther says, "Do you think he is loyal, or a traitor?"

After yet another moment of consideration, of which this interview has caused her many, Elise answers. "On one hand loyal to the Temple, on the other, he conflicts with the religion the Temple represents. However, the Star has long been held in belief by certain aspects of the Temple." Elise dips her head slightly as she thinks more on the subject, her eyes looking somewhere beyond the desk in front of her before she glances up at the Arch-Inquisitrix before her. She studies the woman carefully before leaning back and finishing. "As such, I cannot find him a traitor. I would not wish him in any sort of position that would cause him to influence his religion upon others, however. I do support the signature so far as believing the Temple should support an official religion. However, I do not believe we should enforce it. As such, I cannot find him a traitor, no. It was never my wish that it be taken this far."

Esther nods thoughtfully. "You judge well. That man is the Champion of Shadows. Surely you've heard of him."

"The Champion of Shadows? Oh, my," says Elise quietly as she shakes her head. "I had no idea … I … would never have imagined. I know full well the Knights Templar worship the Sta- … " Her sentence drops off as the full weight of her thought sinks in, and her ear flicks. Unable to quite find what to say Elise just looks at Esther.

Esther's eyes bore into Elise's. "I see that you now appreciate my point of view."

Esther spreads her arms, and her chair rocks a little bit. "I believe in the unity of the Temple, the unity of our service to Rephidim. Jupani, Gallee, Kavi, Rath'ani, Savanites whether slave or free, even Eeee and Nagai – they are all Rephidim. Worshippers of the Star, the First Ones, and every variation in between – they are all the Temple, and have always been. In unity is strength, strength for peace, strength against our enemies. If we are divided, we become weak. And we fall."

Elise nods slightly to these words as she studies the floor, having been unable match the Arch-Inquisitor's stare for long. "I never wished it to go this far," she repeats and again shakes her head. "If this problem extends to the Technopriests as well as the Knights Templar, it would be troublesome at first … but in the long run it would become a disaster." She looks and takes a deep breath before sighing. "I … cannot say I will be quick to judge Kavis and Savanites as my equal, but I do understand this problem. Yes, Arch-Inquisitrix, I understand your point of view very well."

Esther shrugs. "Please don't take it that I'm criticizing your religious beliefs. I assume that you are a First Ones purist, but it doesn't even matter to me. As for me, I have my own copies of the primary holy books of both the Star and the First Ones in my apartment. I have studied them, and I cannot say that either is decisively more valid than the other. But I can say they are definitely not incompatible, and they are both part of our Temple heritage." The Arch-Inquisitrix clears her throat. "I just wanted to be sure we would not be at odds over this issue. If you could not work for me with a clear conscience, then I would have to refer you elsewhere."

The poodle settles her hands in her lap again. "If you had not given me the information you had, and helped me to see things more clearly … that would have been the case. However, now I see otherwise." A uneasy smile crosses her face. "This will be difficult, I imagine?"

Esther says, "What will be difficult?"

"Dealing with the problem you have mentioned to me now," replies Elise.

Esther says, "That depends on you."

A nod. "If you will have it, I will do my best regardless of the difficulty," says Elise.

Esther smiles genuinely. "That is all I can ask of anyone, Investigator Elise."

"I thank you, Arch-Inquisitor. This has indeed been a most enlightening visit. I look forward to serving under you." A broad grin crosses the poodle's features, the most emotion she has expressed visually since the interview began. "I suppose I should tell that inept captain I will not be returning. Oh yes, you may wish to have him looked into. He certainly could do with a performance review."

Esther chuckles. "All in good time. First I will need you to make an important decision for me, which will determine which direction you will take upon leaving my office."

Elise's smile fades to a constant grin. Her head tilts curiously and her ears perk. "And what would that be, ma'am?"

Esther says, "I see two optimal paths for you: overt and covert. If you choose the former, the Air Guard will be informed of your transfer, you will gather your things, you will be introduced to my entire staff and put to work on the streets alongside my veteran Investigator, Ibrahim. It will all be quite public and your assignments will primarily be domestic."

"And the other?"

Esther says, "If you choose the latter, Admiral Moshe Beth El of the Air Guard will be directly and confidentially informed of your transfer; you will be promoted to a high-ranking but totally useless diplomatic post; and you will spend a lot of time wearing a uniform or a dress, cavorting with Gallisian nobles. You will report back to me all that you learn about the situation between Gallis and Sylvania, any connections to pirates in the area, and the situation in Bosch, just to name a few priorities."

Esther says, "You can see that once you go down either road, it will not be so easy to go back."

"I never planned to go back, Arch-Inquisitrix," notes Elise as she reviews the two options. "Of the two, I would have to state an interest in the latter. In fact, I even can tell you of a report I made to Arch-Inquisitor Majoris Melchizedek regarding Gallis relations with Sylvania from four years ago."

Esther digs through a folder on her desk. "Hm. I'm afraid it escapes me at the … ah, here it is." She reads silently for a moment, then chuckles briefly. "Well, it's good that you took the trouble to report it, although it turned out to be of little consequence."

"I am afraid that at the time, I had not quite learned what was useful and what would best be left out." Elise's grin goes lopsided. "But, that has changed."

Esther says, "All right then, let's lay a few ground rules before we get started."

Esther's voice becomes formal, as though she were going through a drill. "You will report only to me, either in person or through an intermediary who will contact you in the field. Your intermediary, whoever it may be, will give you a specified password or phrase. You will memorize a list of valid passwords periodically."

Esther says, "Nothing that is said between us that concerns our work will ever be shared."

In response, the Gallee nods her head as she puts this all to memory.

Esther says, "In the event of my death or disappearance, you may contact Captain Shimei; he will be informed of your status. Failing that, contact Arch-Inquisitor Supreme Maleficos, Bridge Officer Nimiss, or the Captain-Astromancer. Only they will have your true identity and records on file."

Elise says, "I understand."

Esther says, "Just in case you hadn't guessed, you must scrupulously avoid hinting at your true occupation to anyone. No exceptions: not your commanding officer, not your staff, not your family or friends, and certainly not anyone not a citizen of Rephidim."

Esther says, "And not any other member of the Inquisition, either, by the way."

"Of course," says the poodle as she perks her ears for more.

Esther says, "Your intermediary will contact you periodically. You will give him or her all data you have collected, and in turn you will be briefed on any new assignments or changes to current assignments. If you are contacted by someone who pretends to be your intermediary but gives you an incorrect password, you will do whatever you think best, and then report to me directly at earliest opportunity. Finally, if your cover is blown, return to me in person as quickly as possible, avoiding all contact along the way."

Another nod as Elise continues to listen.

Esther says, "Remember that you may have to play along with enemy agents or false intermediaries, or you may have to silence them permanently." She continues, grimly, "And I'm sure you know enough about the laws of Gallis to surmise that if you are discovered, you risk your head – so be discreet."

"You'll be taking a 'vacation' for the next few weeks so that you can absorb all this, and learn a few other important details," Esther concludes, leaning back in her chair. "But I need to know that you are clear about the basics before we make things final."

Elise reaches for her neck and rubs it slightly. "You need not remind me. I studied Gallis and its history, and it is … colorful, at best. I can be thankful my ancestors left long ago." She nods slightly and lets her hand rest in her lap again. "I would be lying if I said this was not a large change for me, but I know I am ready and I understand what you have told me. I am … quite clear on this, ma'am."

Esther nods. "It is a big step. I will do my best to help you not to stumble. Now I believe you had a question for me?"

"Before we get to that, I must mention I do still have family in Gallis. Will this pose a problem?" asks Elise.

Esther folds her hands pensively. "As harsh as this sounds, you must decide before we begin which takes priority: your oath to Rephidim, or your family loyalty. Obviously, I can't promise the two will not come into conflict. Admittedly, you will be there primarily to gather information, and I do not anticipate Rephidim and Gallis going to war anytime soon. But there is the possibility."

"How ironic," remarks Elise before sighing softly. "I originally joined the Officers' Academy for the sole purpose of keeping my family in good standing with the Temple. However, after but a short time I realized true loyalty exceeds one's family. It is a lesson all the de Bellefeuille men learned at one point or another, Tremaine tells me. Also, all those of my line that have served the Temple have taken the oath and have upheld it. If there is war, you can expect me to serve my country no matter what the cost. But you will understand if I hope the situation never comes to that."

Esther says, "So do we all, I assure you. Because I work closely with the Knights Templar, I understand just how high a price one must sometimes pay to keep an oath. But if you do take and keep your oath to Rephidim, then you have no less respect in my eyes than they."

Elise's smile wavers. "I never envied them. Respect yes, but not envied. I actually found Lancer Eclipse quite frightening. Not because of his stature, but because I know what he had to give up. I thought that I could never do such a thing, and well, here I am doing it just the same. Only the mask is different." She shakes her head a little and adds quickly, "Oh, yes, I believe ex-Count Kurai stated I am welcome upon his lands at any time. The 'Czar' I have also met and we seemed to get along well."

Esther nods briskly. "Good, good. That will make your task the easier."

The poodle nods in return. "Excellent. Anyway, my question. I have heard rumors mentioning that the incidents of dream mages falling into comas have increased. Is this indeed true?"

Esther furrows her brow. "I have heard of a few cases, but it is hardly an epidemic. I am sure it is under investigation. Why do you ask?"

"Oh, mere curiosity," answers Elise in dismissal. "I had heard of this beginning to occur four years ago, back when I was still a junior classman. A odd Lapi had mentioned my name, when he escaped from his coma. I found it strange and so have paid the situation some attention."

Esther shakes her head. "Sorry, but I've heard nothing about it. Magic is hardly my forte."

Investigator Elise nods once. "Oh, no matter. It is merely a hobby of mine, and not worth any more of your time." She leans forward slightly. "Do you require my time any further, Arch-Inquisitrix? You have left me with a considerable amount to consider, and if I am no longer needed, I believe I may actually spend some of my shore leave relaxing. Oh, and if it is not too much, might I ask as to my 'new' position title? I am certain my sister will ask … and ask repeatedly if I do not mention it, about my title."

"Ah yes," Esther recalls. "When you leave here, your story will be that I didn't want you for myself but would recommend something nice for you. You can blame it on me not liking poodles, religious discrimination, whatever you like; just stick to a single story. Then, after a few days, you'll be notified of your 'new job'. Then you and your sister will both find out at once."

"Not liking poodles? Ah, yes … ," Elise's grin fades a little. "Moffat. Well it is a testament to your wish for quality that we have gotten along so well. That story would also be quite flimsy, given your fight for equality, anyway." She nods. "Very well then. It is a shame we did not get along. I will be certain to go sulk for a while over a glass of Saskanar wine."

Esther says, "Before you go, let me introduce you formally… "

Esther pushes a button under her desk, and a buzzing sound emerges. "Shimei, will you come in, please?"

There is a pause, and then the door cycles open, admitting a tall, broad-shouldered gray-furred Jupani (that is, of average build) with a white shock of hair on the top of his head, and hazel eyes. He wears standard Guard armor, though it is in a pattern of green and gray, matching the Arch-Inquisitrix's colors. "Yes, Arch-Inquisitrix?"

Esther waits for the door to close. "Captain Nathan Shimei, Investigator Elise de Bellefeuille. She'll be one of our covert operatives."

In response to the introduction, Elise stands from her chair so as not to have to crane her neck all the way around to meet the other Jupani. Once again she snaps off a salute. "Captain."

The Captain returns the salute, bending forward slightly, causing his red cape to sway slightly at the shift of weight. "Sky Corporal." He glances sideways at Esther with an expression that reads, "… or … ?"

Esther stands as well. "… Not determined, as yet. Lady de Bellefeuille, most likely. Ambassador, possibly. I'll have to see what's available."

The Captain nods. "Pleased to make your acquaintance."

"And I yours, Captain. I look forward to not working with you," says Elise.

Esther turns to Elise once more. "As I mentioned, Captain Shimei is my trusted assistant. He will be making certain arrangements on your behalf, and you can come to him if you need anything, should I be unavailable."

The Gallee glances towards the Arch-Inquisitrix and nods once to her before looking back to the Jupani man. "Well, if all goes well, we should not need to meet very often. Not that I find that positive, at least in the social sense. I have found the Arch-Inquisitrix a grand person to speak with, and I am certain being her trusted assistant, you are quite the same," she tells the Captain.

The Captain nods. "Of course."

"Captain, if you would show Sky Corporal de Bellefeuille out?" Esther pipes up. "This sector of the Temple is for Inquisition only, and there's no point in her loitering. Oh," she adds, "and place the necessary orders for a new 'first-aid kit'. Best to get the ball rolling early."

Elise inclines her head to the Arch-Inquisitor. "Again, a terrible shame we could not work together. Although I thank you for your recommendation." She lets her smile fade off her face and turns towards the male Jupani, looking at him expectantly.

"Yes, Arch-Inquisitrix," says the Captain, giving her a salute. "Right this way," he says to the new Investigator.

The door cycles open.

As the newly appointed Investigator is led down the hall, she wears the mask of one rejected. Beyond it however is the grand feeling of pride in her recent accomplishment, and a gnawing fear at what may soon come. As she remembers being said before, once one starts on this path, one may never be able to leave it. But she finds herself ready, and despite the fear walks on without hesitation.

Esther is briefly visible beyond the doorway to her office. She sits down with a look of contemplation as the door cycles closed.