Still in the City of Babel, capitol of the Ashdod Territories of the continent of Ur, Brishen has been an honored guest of the Sabaoth, staying at the Sabaoth's Palace. It would be like a little girl's dream come true, suddenly being treated like a princess and a heroine … if not for the problems that have been troubling the young courier since her meeting with the Sabaoth himself.

Her oft-stated desire has been to meet with the Sabaoth again. Today, it looks like that request will be granted, as she is escorted to a chamber deep within the heart of the Palace, past countless guards and warriors.

The tall corridor that she is being led down – tall enough for a Palace courier to actually FLY through in an emergency – terminates in a much smaller set of double doors, flanked by a pair of severe-looking warriors in black chitinous armor made from the spiked horseshoe-crab-like shells of vicious creatures known as skedats, and bearing whip-like weapons fashioned from the tails of the same creatures.

Brishen reaches down to gather her dress up, casting hesitant glances at the guards as she walks past them. She'd be frightened in the best of moments, but clad as she is in a glorious zolken dress, she almost feels trapped.

The stern guards each take a step away, and the doors open inward, allowing Brishen to enter … though her escort remains behind. In the room beyond, she can see that the area has a much lower ceiling, the chamber being cylindrical in shape – more so like a disc – and dominated in the center by a circular table that is the focus for a light that shines down through a shaft set in the center of the ceiling.

Brishen sighs, ducking her head slightly. The morning, as the evening before was overwhelming, as servants descended upon her quarters to clothe her in dreams. She reaches up to run a hand through her hair, remembering at the last moment how much this would disturb the carefully-arranged curls and combs and flowers. The offending hand is drawn down to be clasped demurely in front of her.

Surrounding the table are numerous Eeee and a few Nagai dressed in the uniforms that designate them as the highest-ranking generals, admirals and battle-wizards in the Sabaoth's army. Across the chamber, seated in an ornate chair that has been moved up to the edge of the disc, is the Sabaoth himself, attired in gilded ceremonial armor – by the impractical shape of it, definitely ornamental in nature, designed more to hold the Sabaoth's frame in an upright position than to see combat.

The double doors close behind Brishen with a sealing clap. Only some of those present look up to regard Brishen. The rest are intent upon the designs on the table and the various models set about on it. It takes only a little while to realize that the table represents half of Sinai – the half dominated by the continent of Ai – and that one of those models represents Rephidim … and the rest are representations of airships, hand-stakingly painted to represent the fleets of the Sabaoth and of Rephidim – and a few other players who may or may not take a part in this 'game'.

Brishen trembles faintly as she looks up, her wingtips brushing the ground. It's too late.

The tall, pale, raven-haired Eeee advisor, Thath, seems to be in the middle of addressing the Sabaoth. "It is a most impressive plan, as always. I believe it will truly strike fear into the hearts of the common people of Rephidim – a must, since the Temple is so adept at sheltering them from the truth of their danger. However, may I advise that a frontal assault concentrated HERE might be better supported if … " He moves a few of the airship models around. "… we split our forces to attack also here … and here … thus preventing them from being able to shore up their defenses in a single location. We have the advantage of mobility, and should make full use of it."

The Sabaoth looks to his other advisors, then nods thoughtfully. "Of course. As ever, you are most perceptive. I forget that although we fight them in the air, yet most of them are not fliers. Very good." At this point, several of the other advisors join in, offering a multitude of other opinions and assessments and suggested alterations to the plan of attack. For the moment, Brishen seems to be forgotten.

Brishen inches closer, the hem of her dress whisking along the floor. For now, it seems wise to wait… She may be a hero of Ashdod, but she's still merely a guest. She lowers her chin demurely.

Moments pass, though there is no hourglass or clock to note the passage. Eventually, it would seem that the warriors have their plan figured out, though it is a complex one that depends upon so many 'ifs' and alternatives, and a great deal of jargon. At last, though, Thath steps up again, easily commanding the attention of the Sabaoth. "If I may note, Great Sabaoth, when the proposal is made to the Lords, to gain the support of their troops toward this effort, there will be detractors. And I am certain you as well as I can guess who will speak first. I believe that the future of Babel – and all of Sinai – depends upon the success of this mission. Therefore, I believe I may have a useful sacrifice to make."

The Sabaoth raises a questioning eyebrow.

Brishen listens intently. This is too large to stop. But can the course be changed? Her knuckles grow white as she wrings her hands. A few paths open in her mind, none terribly pleasant to think about.

"I will openly oppose your plan," Thath says, and then quickly holds up a hand before the Sabaoth or anyone else can form a protest. "I will make an argument that shall sum up the sort of excuses we know certain Lords will have, but with calculated flaws – which you will be easily prepared to take advantage of. My protest will be beaten down, and while I may suffer some humiliation for it – and even some token punishment of your wrath – it will serve to silence any further opposition, lest anyone seem to be merely repeating my same arguments with slightly different wording."

Both eyebrows of the Sabaoth raise at Thath's proposal. There are a few admiring nods among the generals as well. "Your sacrifice is noble indeed, Advisor," the Sabaoth says at last. "I look forward to a transcript of your proposed 'challenge', and going over details with you later. I can see how this may cause a loss of face in the short term, but once we are victorious, I assure you, your sacrifice will not be forgotten."

Thath bows to the Sabaoth. "I will draft a transcript at once, my lord, if you will excuse me." This promptly earns a nod and a hand-wave of dismissal from the Sabaoth, and the advisor heads away from the table, toward the door – and toward Brishen.

Brishen closes her eyes as darkness begins to swirl about at the edges of her vision. Then she opens them – Now is not the time to faint. She does shake a little, though, as she looks up at Thath. "Sir?" She dips her chin hesitantly.

Thath pauses in mid-stride, about to pass Brishen, but then he looks down at her. His lips widen into a fanged smile. "Congratulations, young Courier. You have rekindled a flame within the heart of the Sabaoth – one allowed to simmer and then die into but a glowing ember for too long. You have succeeded where I have failed. Once victory is ours, all Babel will be grateful to you for it."

Brishen straightens slightly, her wingtips lifting from where they've dragged along the floor. Her smile is bright as she looks up at the tall advisor. "I'm greatly honored." A strand of hair trails down to brush her muzzle as she dips her head. "I was wondering, though… " At this she allows herself to fidget a little.

Thath frowns faintly. "You look troubled." He looks back to the war table, then gestures to the door. "Come. The Sabaoth will be greatly occupied for quite some time. Let us tour the Palace Gardens for a little while."

Brishen nods, the hem of her dress whisking like snakes across the floor behind her. She glances over her shoulder, sighing faintly as she gathers her dress up a little, bright zolk wrinkling in her slender hands. "Thank you – There's so much I wish to talk about."

The advisor leads the courier out of the chamber, the double doors closing again behind them as they make their way through the corridor and then, with a turn to one side, it is not very long before they reach the open air again, finding themselves in the midst of one of the many-tiered gardens outside and atop the Palace. It would have been easier to fly much of the distance, of course, but when one is dressed up QUITE so lavishly, there is a certain protocol…

Oddly enough, Brishen doesn't seem to mind her dress. It's certainly much prettier than anything she's ever worn before, though she can't help but feel strangely smaller. She giggles faintly, though, as she catches a glimpse of her feet. "Aha!" She whispers, "There you are."

At least this part of the gardens is a work of art in its own right – and, insofar as art goes, it's a tad bit on the surrealistic side. Between the obscuring features of the hanging, flowered vines, and some clever architecture, if you stand in just the right spot here or there, there are many illusions that the various platforms suspended about the gardens are simply hanging of their own accord in mid-air, without any support whatsoever. Even without such trickery, the garden is ablaze with winter colors – although the Babelite winter doesn't generally bring with it snow. For those without an ability to see color, the flowers still come across as fairly bright.

Brishen glances, surprised at one of many of the flowers, recognizing a twin to the ones twined throughout her hair. "Oh! Is it the same?" She looks up at Thath, a hand reaching up to brush a flower tucked near her ear.

Thath nods. "A coruscant fiero. They only bloom for two weeks out of the year – and we are just three days into this colorful display on the south side of the Palace."

Brishen smiles. "A shining fire." She looks down, her smile growing faint, "I wish I could see its true colors."

"You cannot?" Thath asks. "That is truly a pity."

"So … " Thath says, breaking the momentary silence. "… I am curious to learn more about this young heroine. What would you care to tell about yourself?"

Brishen nods, clasping her hands once more in front of her. "There's not much to say, sir… " A small foot toes at the ground, hidden by her long dress, "I'm a courier. It's why I was at the docks when… "

Thath nods. "… when?"

Brishen carefully tucks an errant lock of hair behind an ear, "When it was attacked."

Thath nods. "Many brave Eeee were lost that terrible day. You are to be commended for, not even being a soldier, risking your life so readily to do the right thing."

There is the rustling of wings in the air, then a shadow passes just to the side of Thath before a messenger lands. He bows, sweeping his wings aside, accidentally flapping up some dirt. "Sorry to interrupt, most high sir, and milady, but there's this message for you." He fumbles with a familiar-looking bag, and drops the sole content on the ground.

Thath, frowning impatiently, stoops to pick up the letter. He quickly opens it, and scans the contents. He frowns even more, then bows to Brishen. "I am sorry, my lady, but I am urgently needed elsewhere. Perhaps we can continue our conversation at a more convenient time."

The young courier's voice grows quiet, "He reminded me of my… " She turns to look at the messenger, her breath catching in her throat. Wires!

Brishen nods demurely, "Certainly, my lord. I very much enjoyed walking with you."

The messenger is bowing repeatedly to Thath, "Just a little dirty sir… " His eyes go wide as he takes a second look at the gorgeous lady, "Brishen?"

Brishen blinks a few times, her eyes growing wide. A lock of hair, probably the same errant one, tumbles down to tickle her muzzle.

Thath pays the clumsy messenger no further heed than to give him a momentary frown … and then he departs hastily, passing through a vine-covered trellis.

"Bree, woaw, turbulent! I never expected to see you here," Reico finally manages.

Brishen squeaks faintly, her knees growing very weak. "R-Reico? But… "

The other Eeee courier seems a little embarrased, suddenly looking at the flowers on either side of Brishen. "Um… yeh, it's me. Hope you weren't worried."

Brishen looks around. There has to be a place to sit. "How did you get here?"

Reico seems entirely unchanged, like a piece of the Rephidim sky-scene yanked out and dropped in Ashdod. He even still wears the optional 'on duty' scarf of his courier company, though his clothes are starting to look a little threadbare. He looks even more sheepish at the question.

"Hey, you better sit down, you don't look so good." He indicates a stone perch beside one of the flowering bushes, "Well… you remember that letter I lost?"

Brishen stumbles a little as she sits down on the perch, her dress pooling and gathering around her feet. "I do… "

Brishen stares at Reico. She has to be dreaming. He's so – so – Reico. Even the silly scarf.

"It was well, like militarily important for Babel and everyone was real torqued off about it. I was picking up another letter from them when I saw all those Mage party guys from the mountain. I asked them if they were having another do and could I come along… then everyone got real quiet," Reico admits, pulling at the strap of his bag.

Brishen blinks. "Mages?"

Brishen rubs her forehead. Part of her wants to hug Reico for being here. The other part wants to hit him for making her life more complicated.

"Yeh, I saw a bunch of them there when I was doing some face diving. Turns out these things are serious invite only, and I wasn't even supposed to know about it." He scratches at the back of his head, "They like, told me I'd just won an invite to another – you know, with chains – and stuck me in the hold. Real dead air time. Sorry I didn't get to say bye."

Brishen whispers, "I… didn't get a chance to say goodbye, either."

Reico slips in beside Brishen on the perch, "Hey, yesterday's weather. Where'd you get the Windy Sails?" He pokes carefully at her elaborate clothes.

Brishen listens to the garden around her, "Oh, that's a very long story." A pause, then, "I'm really glad you're here, Reico." She smiles tiredly as she leans against him.

Reico holds her up, one of his wings hugging around Brishen's back. "Yeh!" he agrees enthusiastically.

Bree closes her eyes, pretending for a moment that she's sitting on a rooftop overlooking the Bazaar. "How long do you think you'll stay?"

Brishen squeaks, giggling as she returns the hug with as much enthusiasm as her present attire allows.

"Oh… well… " The courier's voice is not as flighty as usual. "They like, decided I wasn't a threat and stuff once we got here, but told me I wasn't supposed to fly beyond the Gardens. Just in case and stuff. They didn't say I couldn't go home, but I was afraid to ask in case they said no, y'know?"

Brishen's voice is very quiet, "I think you should listen to them." She smiles faintly, "Or they may turn you into a Creen."

"Eww, snakes!" Reico grins, misinterpreting the warning as a joke. "I'm doing messages and stuff, just like home. How long are you going to be here, a while?"

Brishen nudges the other courier. "I'm serious! You'd better stay here until they tell you otherwise." She smiles, then shrugs, "I really don't know. A while, probably."

A slender hand reaches out to tug at Reico's threadbare shirt, "Where've you been staying?" Bree tilts her head a little, a concerned frown working its way across her muzzle, "It doesn't look like you've got more than what's on your back."

"I will, I will. Well, I've got my lucky bag, so I won't drop anything down between the towers." He pats his satchel, "I've got a bed in with the servants. Yeh, they didn't let me get my other sails and I didn't get any new ones here."

Brishen smiles, scrunching down to look at the satchel. "I still don't know what they did with mine. I'll have to ask one of the servants."

Reico brushes his fingers across the back of the other Eeee's hand, "I'm really glad you're here, Bree. I was afraid you'd be mad."

Brishen looks at her hand, smiling. "I'm more confused than anything else. I was worried you'd be mad at me."

"Oh yeh, confused, tell me about it." He grins, "You're flying with the big storm fronts. That guy you're with, Thath, he's the super important guy around here, next to the Sabaoth."

Brishen smiles, shaking her head a little. "It's still so overwhelming." She shrugs, then throws her arms around Reico and hugs him tightly. "Ugh! I haven't been able to fly in days."

Reico holds the other courier tightly, giving her a squeeze, "In those clothes? No wonder, you'd feel like you were dragging an airship."

Brishen giggles, nodding, then nudges Reico again. "What quarters are you staying at? I don't think they'll let you go where I'm staying, but I could see about visiting you. Maybe we can go out and eat or something." She looks out across the city, "I haven't seen the rest of Babel, yet."

The other Eeee turns to look with her, gazing out across the expanse of towers, with small forms winging about them. "Yeh, your parents live out there someplace don't they? I'd like to see Babel. I'm staying in the… uhm… I don't know what it's called, but I know how to get there. I could take you."

Brishen shivers a little, though it's hard to tell if it's from the wind or something else. "They do… They do… " She shakes her head, once, then smiles again. "I don't think I could fly anywhere in this dress. Maybe we could meet here, later?"

"Sure! Late afternoon?" Reico asks happily, brushing some of Brishen's hair back into place. "I should get back, I'm supposed to be doing stuff. I'll just say it took a while to find the high guy."

Brishen beams, her eyes bright as she looks back at Reico. "That sounds really turbulent. If I can't come, I'll try to get word to you so you don't get in trouble for hanging around."

"Wow, Bree, you're really pretty," Reico says, the words slipping out like a thought that wasn't supposed to be voiced. He quickly hugs her as a distraction, then lets go, adding, "Okay! I'll be here. Watch your upahead, 'kay?"

Brishen stands, reaching out to ruffle Reico's hair, then looks down at her dress. "Ugh. What a mess. My hair's probably sticking out every – Pretty?" She eeps, smiling as she returns the hug. "I will!"

"Bye Bree, good wind!" The Eeee steps back, so his downdraft doesn't raise too much dirt. He jumps into the air, and flaps skyward, turning for a swoop overhead where he calls out, "I'm really glad you're here!" As the courier flies away, a servant steps into view at a distance. Just how long she has been there, or what she could have heard, isn't immediately apparent. The servant approaches Brishen and says, "Come, you're expected. You should really watch the company you keep."

Brishen tucks a lock of hair behind an ear as she turns and raises a brow. "The flowers here are lovely. Would it be possible for a vase to be filled with them, in my quarters?" She smiles at the servant, though there's the tiniest hint of snow in her eyes. {If you only knew… }