The Trial of Iskaya Bathory

[Esplandia]

The large gym located on the grounds of Tolstalf Manor was alive with noise as two combatants went at each other with practice swords. Nikolas Valkiric, Grand Marshal of the Azure Dawn, stepped through the doors and took a moment to watch the melee.

The young queen had her opponent on the defensive as she passionately drove the wiry young man back across the floor. He expertly parried all her cuts and slashes but the shear veracity that she put into everyone of her attacks was obviously tiring him out. She lunged and jumped, keeping him on his toes and in a flurry she came at him, swiping low then coming high and then lunging trying to get past his defenses. Her attack though left her open for only a second and the young man took the advantage and was quickly driving his own attack.

It took only a second for her defenses to be broken and she was knocked down on her back, blade against her chest.

The Grand Marshal sighed and stepped forward onto the floor. He caught the eye of Count Orlan, who had been instructing the fight and was also now stepping forward (likely to chastise his pupil). Nikolas waved him back, the count nodded.

The young man looked up as the Marshal approached then stepped back from his downed foe, standing with blade at the ready. As the queen scrambled to get up, Nikolas turned his back to her and stepped in front of the young man.

'Where are you from?' he asked, holding out his hand for the young man's weapon. The blade was placed quickly into the Grand Marshal's hand, and he extended it out, testing the balance and giving it two quick slashes through the air.

'Stoneport, sir,' the young man answered. Nikolas sized him up. He was young, though older then the queen. He was thin and wiry, and had a good half foot of height on his adversary. The Grand Marshal returned the blade back to the young man.

Turning back to Count Orlan who stood quietly at the side of the melee floor he said, 'Pay this young man one hundred Solvrans every time he beats the queen, and the day she defeats him, send him home.' Nikolas then turned and finally faced the queen.

She stood and faced him defiantly, head held high. He admired her passion and drive but she often needed a reminder of her own limits. Thankfully she had just received one from her sparring opponent (who would now strive even harder to defeat the queen).

'You are one of the most skilled swordsmen I have ever seen,' Nikolas said to her. 'At such a young age you have a firm grasp of the art of the blade, and the technical science of the form. Why did you lose?'

She lowered her head. She knew he knew the answer and only wanted her to say it.

'I don't practice the skills required to defend myself,' Jadzia answered abashedly.

'That is a weakness that will get you killed in a real fight.' He held out his hand and Agatha passed the sword to him. 'Take a shower, the Waiczyn will be arriving soon.'

After she had gone Count Orlan dismissed the young swordsman and stood next to the Grand Marshal. Nikolas passed the Count the training blade and with a shake of his head commented, 'she is not ready for this.'

Orlan shrugged. 'Neither was my nephew and he took to it quickly.'

'And yet it still cost him his life.' He paused, a grim expression curling his lips and furrowing his brow. 'She's nothing like him, but at the same time I fear she'll make similar errors in her reign.'

'She's tougher than he was. She won't be bullied so easily by the Waiczyn, or even you or I.' It was a sentiment both men shared, knowing they had their own guilt over the death of the Queen's father and the shaping of the events that lead them there.

Things were different though. Her father's enemies had been out on a field of battle, victory could be gained by gun and sword. Jadzia's enemy was locked up in a prison, awaiting a trial that was quickly approaching, and was far more dangerous because of it. It was the intent of the Waiczyn, the will of the people, to condemn the Black Duchess to death. The act could end the vampiric resistance, or unleash a second round of fighting in the name of a now martyred leader.

The Grand Marshal considered the situation and though he didn't speak it out loud, he feared that the hard won peace was only a temporary lull in a larger conflict.

---

 

[Esplandia]

At Kalhatec Prison there was only a single prisoner. Arguably the most infamous prisoner ever to be held there. The woman who styled herself as the Black Duchess. For three years she had sat in the deepest cell, four stories underground, awaiting her trial.

Until recently there had been no government to give her a trial. The chaos of he war had nearly destroyed what order there was, and it was only by chance that the kingdom had survived the tribulations. A lot had changed in those three years and her trial could no longer wait. The people were clamoring for justice.

Today she was to be transported from Kalhatec to a special holding in Bravondy. The Azure Dawn were given the honors of guarding the prisoner and making sure she arrived at her destination. Ten members of the Dawnguard had been selected, each having proven their abilities in battle for the kingdom.

Also among them, chosen as the Queen's special representative, was the werewolf Gaelan Marishkov. Though it was unorthodox for a royal representative to be present, the Azure Dawn did not begrudge the request. Every man of the ten Dawnguard had fought with the Duke of Granzludmark.

She was lead out of the prison, three Dawnguard in front, one on either side holding her chains, two directly behind, and three bringing up the rear. Some carried short swords forged of a single piece of argent silver with no grip so that no where would be safe for the prisoner to touch. The three in the rear carried rifles held loosely before them.

It was an overcast day, common weather for the region, but the sun was still bright enough that when she stepped out from the prison doorway her walk faltered as she weakened.

Marishkov awaited by the armored truck that stood with rear doors open awaiting her. She was walked towards him and the Dawnguard spread to either side, two climbing into the back of the truck. She was stopped before him, and he took a moment to speak to her.

'It is my duty to make sure that you reach the capital alive and in condition to stand trial,' he said firmly. 'But let it be known that should anything happen in route, be it an attack or an unexpected delay, I have been authorized to terminate you.'

She remained unfazed, and stared back at him, returning his gaze, a wisp of a smile at the corners of her lips. 'I heard you were recently married,' she said. Gaelan made no reaction, but her knowledge of the marriage concerned him. He would speak with the Grand Marshal.

'That girl from the woods I suppose. I am curious,' she continued, 'whether she prefers the man or the dog?'

There was an unmistakable grin across her face as she was pushed forward into the truck. Within minutes they were on their way, escorted by a dozen military vehicles.

 

[Esplandia]

The convoy took a circuitous route around the city and came in from the northeast to avoid the crowds. An air of carnivale had spread across the city as news of the impending trial had circulated. The Azure Dawn had been tasked with making sure the 'celebrations' didn't turn into riots. While most of the crowds had gathered in the western districts of the city thinking that's the way the convoy would come, there was still a good deal of people in the east that came out to line the streets and hurl insults at the black duchess.

There were three transport trucks in the convoy so that the people wouldn't know for sure which one she was in. As they entered the city the Arrandalian military fell in with the convoy, adding more firepower to the escort and enough men to push the crowds back. They even went ahead and blocked off side streets to keep the route clear. Regardless of the precautions it still took them an hour to get through the crowd to the Citadel of the Azure Dawn where they would hold the duchess during her trial.

The convoy entered the citadel's courtyard, and the gates were closed securely behind them. Gaelen finally sighed in relief. That had been the hard part. He climbed out of the truck and supervised as the Iskaya was taken from her transport and lead away towards her cell. She had nothing to say this time but her posture was still defiant. her cell was on the second sublevel and it was a simple brick room, lined in all four walls, ceiling, and floor with thick bars of argent silver so that she wouldn't be able to escape. Four guards would be posted around the cell at ll times, and one would rotate out every fifteen minutes so that their would be no guard change.

Gaelen checked to make sure all the precautions were in place so he could report back to the Queen and her council. When he was satisfied he returned back to the courtyard. He took a moment to briefly meet with the prior of the citadel, as well as some of the other members of the Azure Dawn who would be responsible for the prisoner. He was satisfied with each and every one of them, and after shaking their hands and wishing them peace and success over the next few weeks, he hopped into a waiting car and headed towards Tolstalf Manor where he would report to the Queen.

 

[Esplandia]

Jadzia sat at her desk desperately trying to force herself to read through the stack of reports and requests that had been left for her by her uncle and the Grand Marshal. She knew they got some kind of sick satisfaction out of overloading her, saying that as Queen she should now take up more of the responsibility of running the country and that she would get some kind of experience out of it all. So far, the only thing she’d gotten was a headache. The most interesting event of the day had been Gaelen Marishkov arriving to report on the successful transport of the Black Duchess to the citadel. She had tried to ask him questions about the vampire, but Gaelen had been polite and terse in his replies.

Still, she was mostly done, only a few left and she read them as quickly as she could and signed off on the ones she needed to sign, placing them in a basket for the two older men to look over one last time in the morning. With her head throbbing and her brain tired, she decided it was a good time for a walk around the grounds before the sun set. She gathered herself up and grabbed a jacket before heading out into the hall.

Her personal bodyguard, appointed by the Waiczyn, was waiting for her as she left. Ikkiratuk Ni Daz, the eldest daughter of the Count of Sastenwald was standing beneath a large window, eyes closed, and enjoying the last rays of light before the sun disappeared behind the Capeashan Mountains. She heard Agatha open the door, and came to attention, her leaves rustling as she moved.

Jadzia smiled warmly at her bodyguard. She had come to consider the Dryad woman one of her closest friends. She rarely felt the need to talk down the queen, nor to try to impart some kind of life lesson anytime the queen made a small mistake. In fact most the time she was quiet, keeping to herself, and when she did speak it was to talk of her home in the deep forests, or to hum a song in her native tongue. She towered over Agatha, nearly double the queen’s height, wearing armor that was made from hardened wood that had been grown into shape.

“I want to walk through the gardens,” Jadzia informed her. “Follow me.”

Tolstalf Manor was surrounded an all sides by magnificent gardens and a tall outer wall. Jadzia particularly liked the roses that grew around the duck pond on the western side and so the two women went straight there, Jadzia leading the way, running ahead to pick flowers and bring them back to the Lady Ni Daz who would then tuck them into her hair (or at least the broad dark green leaves atop her head that looked like hair).

By time they reached the pond, the sun had down completely behind the mountains, and the garden was now cast into shadow. The ducks were all now lying down among the bushes and reeds along the ponds edge, except for a few that were still floating atop the water.

“Can we go swimming?” Jadzia asked Ikkiratuk.

“I’m afraid it’s too cold for you,” the dryad said kindly. “You’d get sick and the Grand Marshal would yell at us both.”

Jadzia made a pouty face, but then broke out into a grin. “This behavior is very unbefitting of a lady of your position,’ she said in a mock imitation of the Grand Marshal. “There will be no pudding tonight. Now think about what you’ve done.”

They both laughed heartily as they walked around the pond. Agatha began to tell Ikkiratuk a story about a time when she’d been forced to stay with one of the southern lords during the war, a fat and grumpy count whose face would turn purple when he was mad. Jadzia had thought it was the funniest thing to irritate him, and one time had decided that she would bring some of the swans from his gardens into the house, and let them into the count’s room. As Jadzia got to the part where he discovered the swans and his reaction, she was interrupted by Ikkiratuk reaching out and firmly grabbing the queen’s shoulder. The made a shushing sound, her head turned to the side listening.

She leaned down and whispered into the queen’s ear. “We’re not alone.”

“It could be a gardener,” Jadzia said, her heart pounding as she too tried to listen.

“They would not be out here in the dark without a light.” Ikkiratuk stood back up straight and pulled Jadzia closer. “Be ready,” she warned. Then there was a sound as something whizzed through the air and dug into Ikkiratuk’s exposed arm. The dryad scooped up the queen and rushed back towards the house, carrying Jadzia in her arms. She dashed through the garden, oblivious to the rows of plants and flowers, tearing through them and over them as she ran.

Jadzia looked behind and saw three shadowy figures coming after them. They were running smoothly after, jumping over the hedges, moving faster than the sprinting dryad. They’ll catch us, she thought.

Then ahead Ikkiratuk saw three guards patrolling the grounds and as she passed them by cried, “There’s an attack! Protect your queen!”

Without hesitation the three guards lifted their weapons and opened fire into the dark behind. Jadzia saw the shadowy figures drop and then disappear. The guards continued to fire, and the commotion drew more guards from within the yard. Ikkiratuk raced through the courtyard door and into the manor. People were rushing about in a panic, but the dryad ignored them and raced upstairs to Count Orlan’s study, which was the most secure room in the house as it had no windows and only one door. She deposited the queen onto a couch at the back of the room, and then stepped to the door. She flagged down a few guards and ordered them into the room to protect the queen.

“I must see what is happening,” she told the queen and then she was gone, closing the door behind.

Jadzia sat on the couch waiting, frustrated she didn’t know what was happening. The guards looked nervous. One bolted the door and they all took up positions around the room, facing the entrance. Jadzia didn’t know how long it was, but it was a long time, before a knock came at the door and the voice of her uncle could be heard giving the all clear. The door was opened and Count Orlan entered, followed by Ikkiratuk and the Grand Marshal.

“Everything’s alright,” Orlan said, coming to hug his niece. “The grounds are cleared and we’ve tripled the guard.”

“What’s going on?” she asked, her voice shaking. She looked at Ikkiratuk and saw that nearly two dozen long darts were sticking out of her back. “Are you alright?” she asked, running over to her bodyguard.

“I am fine. Their poison will not affect me.”

“Either way, I’ll have a physician look at you.” The Grand Marshal told her. He turned his attention back to Jadzia. “We are waiting for Gaelen to return. He was leading the search of the gardens and should be here any minute.”

While they waited, Orlan had a servant bring the queen some hot tea, and she sipped it while looking at the men gathered in her room. They were all nervous, and she could tell that the Grand Marshal was angry. His brow was furrowed and he was biting his lower lip.

At last Gaelen arrived, flanked by two guards and one knight of the Azure Dawn. “He bowed to the queen and then gave his report. “We found no intruders on the grounds, and the house is clear. It looks like they came over the southern wall. We found a guard there who had been killed and his body drained.”

“Vampires!” The Grand Marshal spat.

“Yes.” Gaelen tersely agreed.

“We must send the queen out of the city,” Orlan said, but Jadzia quickly replied with a “No!” They all looked at her.

“I’m not going to hide. I have to be here for the trial. I want to see her when she’s condemned. I wasn’t to see her pay for my father’s death. For my mother. For my brothers. I deserve to be here.” She spoke harshly, her voice rising almost to a whine. She clenched her fists and shook, not out of fear, but anger. She saw the Grand Marshal nod, and even Gaelen was smiling at her. A little.

“Sending her away would only embolden our enemies,” the Grand Marshal said. “We won the war so no more fleeing from safehouse to safehouse. The queen will stay in Bravondy, as she has commanded.” He bowed to her, and Agatha felt a stubborn pride wash over her.

“She can’t stay here though,” Orlan argued. “Tolstalf can’t be defended, it’s not a fortress.”

Gaelen coughed, drawing everyone’s attention. “She’ll stay in the citadel.”

The Grand Marshal and her Uncle were both shocked. “With the black Duchess?” said the Marshal. “Absolutely not,” said her Uncle.

Gaelen shrugged. “Name a safer location in the city. Name somewhere else that the Azure Dawn could as effectively protect the queen.”

There was no rebuttal. The two men knew that what Gaelen said was true. Without a word it had been decided. The queen would be moved to the citadel, the same building as the most notorious vampire alive.

 

[Esplandia]

There was no breeze, the air was humid and stifling. Maric Askavos tried to peer through the gloom but only a pale light filtered down into the deep crevice in which the Silent Palace stood. Next to him the young girl played on a lute, the song strange and foreign to his ears. Yet she had assured him the song was one that had been popular amongst the Arrand peoples who once populated this land.

Pale light filtered out onto the balcony through silk curtains, giving only enough illumination to see the girls shadowy figure. Maric listened politely as she played.

Beyond the curtains he heard someone enter the room so he rose and stepped through back into the palace.

A tall pale woman awaited, her hair tied up in a series of intricate knots tied up with silk and silver roses. Her long pointed ears were decorated with intricate jewelry and her face was tattooed in dark fractal designs. She looked strait at Maric with her pale irisless eyes.

'Lady Basilikos,' he greeted her proffering a respectful bow. 'I was not aware you had returned.' It was a lie of course. His men had informed him of her arrival over an hour ago. What he was surprised about was how long it had taken for her to seek him out.

'I bring news,' the elf said, her eyes darting to the curtains from which beyond music was still coming.

'I can receive it,' he assured her.

She returned her gaze back to him. 'Another matter of importance first. Your people have made a mess of my grand hall. I was alarmed to see the remains of their ..... feast, still strewn about. I expect it shall be taken care of.'

He smiled to hide a flash of anger. He had left explicit commands and been ignored. Someone would have to be bled for the failure. 'I'll see to it personally.'

'Good I am glad,' she said moving closer to the balcony. Speaking loud enough that the girl outside could hear, the elf continued. 'There has been an attack on the Queen. Reports state it was a number of vampires behind it.'

Maric this time didn't hide his rage, baring his fangs he turned away from the elf and roared a blood curdling scream. The music outside had stopped.

He turned back around, and with his fangs still bared, asked, 'Who?'

'Balikov.'

The curtains parted and the young girl stepped through, lute still in hand. She looked no older than nine, but her pose belied much experience. She bowed politely to the elf, then turned to Maric and simply ordered, 'Go!'

He did not hesitate, storming out of the room. He raced through the halls and down the stairs heading to the offending vampires quarters. He did not stop to knock, choosing instead to tear the door from its hinges.

Balikov, a short and rotund man, sat on a cushioned, to young vampire girls feeding him grapes. They looked up startled as Maric burst in. 'Out!' he ordered them. They quickly complied, running out through the damaged doorway.

'Do you know what you have done?' He asked.

Balikov smiled smugly. 'More than you have done. I attempted to strike at our true enemy.'

As the last word left the fat man's Maric launched himself at him, driving a dagger of argent silver under his ribs. Balikov screamed in agony as his flesh reacted to the toxic metal.

Maric pinned him down against the couch. 'You were ordered to not make a move. The Queen was not to be attacked. You have threatened our plan and that can not be forgiven.'

He then pulled the blade from Balikov's side and swiftly plunged it deep into his heart. Balikov was soon dead.

He returned back to the chambers and found the Lady Basilikos and the young girl eating. Servants had laid out a small meal and tea for them.

Maric wanted to know what they had been discussing but did not ask. They both looked at him as he entered, their gaze lingering on the blood splattered on his coat.

'Will this change the plan, Matilda?' the elf asked the young girl.

'It will complicate it,' Matilda answered, 'but not change it.' She took a sip of tea. 'Where have they moved the Queen to do you know?'

'The citadel in Bravondy.'

Matilda and Maric exchanged a surprised look. 'Not out of the city?' Matilda asked incredulously. 'That is a surprise and might change things. Hmm. Perhaps for the better.' She turned to Maric. 'I think we must accelerate the next step. How soon can you be prepared?'

'Three days,' he answered matter of factly.

'Excellent. This attack will force the Arrandalians to accelerate the trial as well. We must be ready. We shall not let Iskaya down.'

 

[Esplandia]

The morning of the trial had dawned and large crowds had gathered outside the citadel. They had come wanting to see the most infamous vampire. Some wanted justice while others were just curious. Following the attempted assassination of the Queen the government had decided that the trial would be held in the Citadel for risk of transporting the captive through the streets.

The first day would be presenting the case and reading the charges. It was decided that the queen would not need to be present, and though she argued at first, Gaelan was able to convince her to stay put until the following day. She took his recommendation graciously and he was grateful for it.

The vampire was lead into the courtroom flanked front, behind, and to each side by full Knights of the Azure Dawn. She had been allowed to chose what she would dress in for the trial, and she'd chosen a fur and satin classic nobles dress in crimson. She stopped before the judge and stood defiantly as a list of charges were read.

"...conspiracy to overthrow the government, open rebellion against the rightful government, multiple counts of regicide, armed insurrection, acts of terror,..." and the list went on. Iskaya just continued to smile smuggly until it was finished.

"How do you plead?" the judge asked.

She laughed, "Against these ridiculous charges? Sedition against Arrandal? I was born before this nation existed, before the Arrand barbarians took the land from the Argents, before the Argents took it from the Vlettens, and before the Vlettens took it from the people that stole it from my people. Your nothing but the next wave of invaders and I have been at war with the likes of you for centuries. How do I plead? Not guilty!"

The judge waved for the knights to take her to her seat. She was sat down next to Gaelen Marishkov who had been appointed to act on her behalf. He looked incredulously at her, and she returned his gaze, obviously proud of herself. "That wasn't helpful." he stated flatly.

"When have I ever been anything other than helpful to you," she laughed. "You think your trying to help me, maybe that you'll even stay my execution. It's your duty to try at least, but my fate has already been decided, and I won't beg."

Afterwards both sides gave their opening statements. Gaelen's was quite impassioned and he hoped that people would see he was performing his duty, and not personally standing up for the woman he was defending. It was hard enough dealing with their biases against werewolves, he didn't need them to think he supported the vampiric cause. Yet he had been appointed by the Queen and he would perform his duty.

 

[Esplandia]

BRAVONDY, Arrandal - On the first day of Iskaya Bathory's trial three years after her defeat and capture by Azure Dawn forces, the former revolutionary seemed a shadow of the merciless figure she cut for nearly the last half-century of war she'd instigated.

Thinner than when she'd been sentenced to serve in Kalhatec three years ago, she was yet able to maintain a posture of firm defiance in a noble's gown provided by her jailers.

A panel of five judges is trying Ms. Bathory for the death and destruction of the Vampiric Rebellions and the murder of King Bajoras III and most of the royal family in the bombing of the Palat Roz.

Ms. Bathory mocked the Arrandalian military martial law which the kingdom has been under since the collapse in 2010, proclaiming the nation totally under control of the Azure Dawn. She said she would not recognize the courts authority as it was nothing more than a pawn of the Dawnguard and the Grandmaster of the order.

She pleaded not guilty but with a scournful flourish calling those present nothing more than invaders of whom she'd been at war with for centuries. The long awaited trial which has had to wait until the stabilization of the kingdom has drawn large crowds of protesters who are hoping to witness the condemnation of the Black Duchess, the instigator of the suffering most have had to endure over the preceding decades.

Many protestors have been calling for her immediate execution as many can not understand why she'd even be kept alive for so long let alone have a trial. People who counted family members among Ms. Bathory's victims said they could scarcely believe this betrayal by their own nation fearing they might try to give her a life sentence instead of the death penalty.

The day ended early as the judges called for a recess following the opening statements. The trial will resume tomorrow.

 

[Esplandia]

(OOC: After some re-tweaking of my nation, Agatha's name has been changed to Jadzia to better accommodate the direction I'm taking with Arrandal)

On the second day of the trial Iskaya Bathory was once again lead into the courtroom by a guard of Azure Dawn knights. The crowds outside the citadel were smaller today, but everyone was still on high alert. The proceedings opened up the prosecution began by examining the charges levied against the vampire. There was a small interruption as the Queen entered the gallery above the courtroom as people stood to show their respects. She was flanked by two of her personal Hussars, and as many would notice, her regent and the Grand Marshal were absent. She was here on her own behalf and not on behalf of the nation's government. She motioned for the crowd to sit back down, and then she took her own seat.

Jadzia had noticed that Iskaya had not once turned her head to see what the commotion was about, choosing instead to remain focused on the panel of judges. Gaelen had looked up and given her a warm smile. She was glad to see him take to the role she'd assigned him. She knew that he and Iskaya shared a bit of history from the days of Merik IV and despite his own personal feelings on the her, he'd provide an honest defense for her. Something no one else in Arrandal would likely be capable of. He was quick to call out fallacies and inaccuracies in the prosecutions arguments, and Jadzia knew this would not win him friends nor popularity among those in attendance.

And so it went on with mounting piles of evidence. Jadzia watched the proceedings, but mostly watched the defendant. The vampire seemed neither moved nor contrite. She sat up strait and held her head high, unapologetic for her crimes. The queen could feel nothing but contempt for her. She had no memories of her father, of her mother, or her brothers who had died during the bombing of the royal palace. Her memories were filled with fleeing from one safe haven to another, of being stuck in a military camp, of living in fear of her life until that fateful day when the Black Duchess had caught up with them at Shepsfel and the war had been won at last.

The woman below was the cause of that, the reason her family was dead, the reason her nation had nearly collapsed into oblivion. Jadzia had wondered how'd she feel upon looking at her nemesis for the first time. She had entertained the notion she'd feel pity, or maybe some kind of understanding. All she felt was rage which frankly surprised her. Hate she understood, but this rage made her want to stand up and call off the trial, ordering her immediate execution. It was in her right's as queen. And yet she couldn't bring herself to do so. The truth was she wanted justice, not revenge.

After many hours the judges called another recess until the following day. It would then be the defenses turn to make their argument and put forward their evidence. As the Dawnguard led Iskaya away, Jadzia made her exit. Flanked by her Hussars she headed towards the hall that would lead her towards the Chantry and the apartments that had been provided for her within the keep. As she marched away she noticed a familiar face come out from one of the galleries, so she changed directions and hurried to catch up.

"Countess ze Cenusahal," she called out. The young woman turned around to see who had called out to her and when she saw the Queen she went into a deep curtsy.

"Your Highness," she said rising back up.

Jadzia gave her a warm hug. "Emma I didn't expect to see you here."

"My fathe-...My Seneschal browbeat me into attending while I was in Bravondy. He felt I should attend and show solidarity as a member of the Waiczyn."

"Sounds like Grand Marshal Valkiric," Jadzia laughed. "I was sorry to hear of your father's passing. He was so kind to grant me sanctuary so many years ago."

I pained look crossed the countess' face. "He was kind upon occasion," she stated.

Jadzia then remembered that there had been some contention between the old count and his daughter. She felt fool for having forgot. Still Emma had been a good friend at the time and both now shared in being orphans and having to rule in place of their lost father's.

"Please join me for lunch," the Queen offered. "I'm staying her at the Citadel so you won't have to go far."

"Oh no, I couldn't impose," the countess protested.

"Nonsense," said Jadzia, taking her by the arm and ending any protests.

 

[Esplandia]

Night came to the city, dispersing the crowds, and dropping a blanket of quiet over Bravondy. Azure Dawn and Royal Hussars patrolled the streets around the Citadel and other landmarks of the city, but in the more dense residential areas few patrols came. Yet the city was at peace. Citizens went home, locked their doors and shuttered the windows, the tradition of the nation. For the things that went bump in the night were real here, and the monsters lurked just out of sight.

While the areas around the Citadel, the old palace, and the Sepulcher had Night life where the wealthier and braver residents of the city went to blow off steam, the greater part of the city was silent and dark. Anyone out and about at night in those parts were up to no good.

If anyone had been up to look out their windows they would have been alerted to the dark figures making their way through the streets, heading towards the center of town singly or in small groups. They came in the hundreds from outside the city, knowing that the fear of the night would keep any curious people locked in their homes.

The interlopers passed silently through the city, some arriving at shops of houses where they were let in after a special knock or signal, most made their way towards the cities monuments, the important places at the heart of the city. They would meet up with the few who knew they were coming and had prepared places for them away from the patrols, places where they could lay low. As the night progressed hundreds more arrived, thousands more, moving in the cover of night until the first light of the coming dawn started to brighten the east, and then there were no more. The streets once again became empty.

The third day of the trial dawned.

 

[Esplandia]

Jadzia once again entered the courtroom for the third day of the trial. She was attended by the Countess of Cenusahal who had agreed to join her for the duration of the proceedings. They were followed by two Royal Hussars who would stand outside the entrance to the gallery. Jadzia had decided that they would sit in Emma’s gallery booth today as it was farther back and she would be able to have a quiet discussion with the Countess and not disturb the proceedings. They would also be joined by the Queen’s personal guard, Ikkiratuk Ni Daz.

Today was the turn of the defense to promote their case and Jadzia did not envy Gaelen his job. Iskaya was lead into the courtroom wearing the same red dress as the previous day and looking as defiant and unconcerned as she had been. The courtroom was filled today, mostly with members of the press, lesser nobles, and a number of citizens who had been granted special dispensation to attend for a number of various reason.

Gaelen began his proceedings, calling on the mercy of the judges and asking for understanding. “This woman before us has lived through countless years, filled with sorrows we cannot even imagine,” He said. “What losses and hardships have shaped her worldview? Can someone who has seen so much loss and suffering truly ever be free of the anger that drives them? I ask only for mercy.”

The judges remained stone-faced and Jadzia felt that his argument only fell on deaf ears. In truth even the Queen had made up her mind and hoped the courts would order her execution once the trial ended. There would be a few more days of this before the judges could make a ruling and the whole affair would be over no matter the outcome. Two days of attending had already taken their toll on her.

Gaelen finished his statement and the head judge informed him that he could call his first witness. Gaelen approached the bench and as he called his first witness a large explosion blasted out the side of the building, sending debris blasting out over the courtroom.

Jadzia was only aware of a loud rush of air and a deafening roar and a moment passed before she realized she was falling. The whole section of the gallery was leaning forward over the courtroom below and she was only able to stop herself from falling to the floor below by grabbing onto the railing. She looked around blinking. Her ears were still ringing and dust filled the room. The entirety of one wall was gone, the gallery’s and people in attendance nowhere to be seen. She realized that her royal booth was also destroyed.

She felt a strong grip grab a hold of her and she struggled against it in panic. Then she was picked up and spun around to see the leafy face of a very concerned Ikkiratuk. “I’m okay,” Jadzia said weakly. She then saw movement out of the corner of her eye and turned to see Emma picking herself up from the slanted floor of the gallery.

In a rush of noise and sound Jadzia’s hearing returned and she was aware of a lot of screaming and barked commands. She could also hear more explosions though these seemed far off. Ikkiratuk Placed the Queen upright making sure she could stand on her own. “We must get out of here, your highness,” she said.

Though a quick glance at the door told them that way would be unwise. Smoke was already curling out of the cracks and flame was lapping at the bottom of the door. The dryad made a quick decision and grabbed both the young women and stepped out over the railing and fell to the courtroom floor below, smashing wooden benches as she landed.

All around was chaos as people piled over each other trying to get out of the exit. A number of Azure Dawn were attempting to direct people and keep them from harming each other as they fled.

“This way,” Ikkiratuk commanded and lead them towards the front of the courtroom and the judges exit. The lights had gone out and the only illumination was from two small windows high up at the back of the room. As they neared the bench a large figure emerged before them.

“My Queen you’re safe,” Gaelen said relieved. His clothing was singed, and blood poured profusely from a wound in his temple.

“I’m fine,” Jadzia answered. “We have to get out of here.”

“Go through the judge’s office, there’s a passage that will lead to the river. You can get to safety from there.”

“You’r not coming with us?” Ikkiratuk asked.

“The Black Duchess has escaped,” he answered. “I’m going after her.”

“Your hurt,” said Jadzia.

He just gave her a shrug and then disappeared. Ikkiratuk lead the way and headed out though the office. They found the passage and headed down towards the river. As they fled a squad of Dawnguard came hurrying up the passage. The Dryad informed them that the queen was with her. After a quick briefing two Dawnguard were ordered to escort the queen to the river and radio for a helicopter to come and extract them, then the rest hurried on, heading up to give what aid they could.

And so they came out of the passage and found themselves on a gravel beach by the river, the walls of the Citadel towering above them. The Dawnguard radioed for a helicopter and a long twenty minutes later it arrived and soon after the survivors were aboard and the helicopter raced away.

Jadzia could now see the extent of the damage. It was not just the citadel that’d been hit. All across the city columns of smoke were rising up from burning buildings. The largest smoke column was coming from the remains of what had been the restored Sepulcher of Anastasia. Even as she watched she could see artillery shelling the edges of the cities coming from somewhere in the eastern hills.

As the city fell away behind them she realized that for the second time, she was fleeing the destruction of her home city.

 

[Esplandia]

Gaelen escaped the ruined courtroom by climbing up into the gallery on the side of the building that hadn’t been hit, and leaving by one of the upper exits. He hadn’t seen which way the vampire had gone but as he exited out into one of the small courtyards of the citadel he caught her scent and rushed to follow.

She had fled across the courtyard and into one of the buildings beyond. He followed and never lost her scent as she wound her way through the citadel’s corridors. He passed a number of bodies, victims of her escape, but didn’t slow. A quick sniff told him that they were dead.

Finally her trail lead out onto the wall and he rushed again out into the open air. He came to a halt. Her trail had vanished. Panic threatened to overwhelm him but he pushed it down. He sniffed left along the wall, and then right. Nothing. He stopped to think for a second. He then approached the parapet and looked over.

Below him was the river. He squinted and looked towards the water, scanning up and down it. Then he saw her, emerging from the far side. A figure in a red dress climbed out of the river and headed off into the city beyond.

He had to hurry. He took half a dozen steps back and with as much speed as he could muster he threw himself over the wall and cleared the stony beach below landing in the water. He didn’t stop for a second, immediately forcing himself to swim with as much speed as he could muster.

He climbed from the water on the far bank and after taking a moment to orient himself he rushed to where he’d seen her climb out and after having reacquired her scent he was once again in pursuit.

 

[Esplandia]

Even as Gaelen pursued his quarry his mind raced back to a time before when he had stood in the rubble of Bravondy and searched for another woman twelve years before.

He had traveled to the city of the Arrands with news of the Kings death. Bajoras III had died when his forces had been ambushed by the forces of Iskaya Bathory. He wanted to be the one to inform the Queen, needed to be the one, the guilt on his conscience more than he could bear. He had known of the Crimson Shroud's plan to take Varfrascruce, Iskaya had informed him weeks before hoping he'd join his forces with hers. He had refused but promised to keep the attack a secret. His hatred had blinded him. He blamed the young king for the sins of his father, and could not believe that there would ever be peace between men and lycan.

And then the atrocities happened. The Shroud murdering the people trapped in the High Vales, leading raids from their newly acquired stronghold into the towns of the highlands. This was the beginning of the second stage of the Vampiric Rebellions, and even then everyone thought it was just another small uprising.

It was Sanja who finally convinced him to pick aside. She, the last descendant of the Calagvics, who travelled the dangerous roads to Granzludmark and Steivad and presented him with a royal proclamation proclaiming all lycans full status as citizens of Arrandal. She fell on her knees before him and begged him to help save the kingdom.

To this day Gaelen believed she may have known what was coming. In the moment she knelt before him he loved her, loved her like the mother and sisters he had lost to the Prusas' war to overthrow Mirek the Vampire King. He then marched to war.

But it had been too late. He arrived too late. The Kings army was destroyed, hundreds of Dawnguard as well. The Grand Master of the Azure Dawn and many members of the Waiczyn all lay slain with the King in the northern passes. He ordered his forces to march to Vijeliazid to defend the provincial capital and he rode swiftly south with the news.

Gaelen found the Queen in the gardens of the Palat Roz, the royal palace, her children playing among the flowrrs and trees. He informed her of her husbands death and she wept and Gaelen, who knew this was in part his own fault, knelt beside her and promised in the name of Azulnais to defend Arrandal.

And then the first bombs fell. The vampires had no intention of attacking Vijeliazid, nor any of the other fortresses of the north. Instead, hidden away in the High Vales they had prepared a large force of aircraft and now with the royal army destroyed they unleashed hellfire against the capital. Air sirens blared out over the city as the planes bore down on them. The Queen gathered her children and attempted to flee to the shelters beneath the palace while Gaelen rushed off to find the palace guard to help mount a defense. None of them made it to their destination.

The bombs hit the palace and explosions broke apart the nine hundred year old structure. It came down upon the inhabitants crushing many. Gaelen found himself buried under rubble, returning to consciousness after a time he knew not how long. He pushed himself up and out of the debris. Fires burned around him, the air filled with ash and dust.

The palace was gone. Around him was piles of rubble and bits of walls and columns standing alone. He climbed across the broken stones of the palace and tried to find the queen. He never did, nor would anyone else. As he searched, pulling the living and dead from the rubble, he knew he had failed. The Queen was likely dead, along with her children and the entire royal house.

And then he found her. A scared little girl hiding under the remains of a staircase. Tears had left clear tracks down a soot stained face. A trembling three year old whose entire life had been broken and destroyed in a matter of moments. He picked her up and looked right into her eyes, eyes that looked just like her mothers, and in that moment hope returned to Gaelen Marishkov. One last hope for lasting peace.

Now once again that peace has been broken. And the one who held the blame was now fleeing from justice. This time, Gaelen swore, he would have retribution.

 

[Esplandia]

A light fog had rolled over the hills as the sun dropped behind the towering peaks of the Capashean Mountains. Gaelen was exhausted as he continued to follow the trail of his prey. He was also wary. The city had been left behind hours ago, its suburbs giving way to farmland and fields until even that had been left behind for woodlands and rocky foothills.

Iskaya's trail ran on ahead of him, and he knew he was getting closer, her scent was stronger. What confused him was that she had fled the city. It was obvious her supporters had infiltrated Bravondy and yet they had not come to her aid. In the time of his pursuit no other scent had joined hers. Did she know he followed? What was she headed for?

Thoughts raced through his mind as he dogged his prey. He crossed an open field cast in shadow by the distant mountains and then passed through a sparse wood. As he pursued he caught sight of her as she raced ahead, a dark figure rushing on ahead. Every time he caught sight of her he had crossed more of the distance.

On ahead he rushed following worrying that the sun would set before he caught up. If night came she would out run him, even if he chose to transform. Then he came out of the woods and found her standing in a clearing atop a small tumble of rocks, waiting for him.

He came to a stop and caught his breath as they stared across the clearing at each other. She didn't move to flee so he rested until his breathing slowed and then he moved forward.

'Here we are,' she said as he came close. Her eyes shone brightly at him as if caught in the light throw the mountain shade now covered everything, the last light of day fading behind the peaks.

'Is this a trap?' He asked, trying to listen and smell for anything out of the ordinary.

She laughed. 'No. There's no trap, just me. I thought we should talk. Twice now you have interfered with my plans and disrupted my success which is sad because upon a time you wanted to help me succeed.'

'A mistake in judgement on my part,' Gaelen said. 'One that I wish I could take back.'

'My plans have had to change quickly. I have lived far too long to not plan for my plans to go astray. Yet still I feel you've known too much about my plans and movements.' She paused, a look of contemplation crossing her face. 'It was you who knew that I was going after the Queen, you who brought the Dawnguard to Shepsfels and defeated me. That's no coincidence.'

Gaelen didn't answer right away, instead he stood listening to the hushed sounds of twilight, the rustling of leaves on in the wind and the buzzes and chirps of night insects. He had learned never to underestimate the woman before him. Of course she had figured all this out. Had the trial been a distraction for something more than her escape?

'I have a spy among your people,' he admitted. 'They've been there for some time. The weakness of your kind is you think you're smarter than everyone else. And yet I have an agent in your highest council.'

'I'll find them even if I have to purge the leaders of the Shroud,' she said. 'My imprisonment has apparently caused them to forget our goals.'

'They've been there since the war and have been privy to your councils and your plans. See I know who you are, really. You like that the world thinks your the oldest of your kind, that your older than the Argent Impirium, older than the records of man. But you're not. You're not even in charge of the Shroud. Your just a lieutenant to a greater threat.'

Gaelen felt satisfaction as her face contorted in rage. He wondered how long it had been since the last time she'd been bested. He assumed a couple centuries.

'What you know, what you think, won't matter after tonight,' she growled. 'I will purge the upper eschelons of the Shroud, and then I'll finish what I started. The war isn't over. These last couple years of peace has only been an interlude. And it will be worse for you all. I will burn Arrandal and end the reign of its kings. That little girl you serve will suffer and I will make it last. But you won't be around to see that.'

Gaelen squared his shoulders. 'Then you should have done that twenty minutes ago, while it was still day.'

The last light had gone, and night had come. Before she realized what Gaelen had said he allowed the transformation to come. For most werewolves the change took minutes, a painful and agonizing change. But Gaelen had been afflicted by the curse for a long time. His change was fast. Even as the full understanding of Gaelen's words dawned on Iskaya he had transformed. His clothes shredded as his already big frame changed into a mass of thick muscles and fur. His hands turned to claws. His feet, burst from his shoes now powerful hindclaws, long and sharp.

She leaped at him, a silver dagger in hand, and he howled, his hands now large strong. He batted her away effortlessly.

She rolled across the cool grass and came up at the ready, but Gaelen charged at her. She plunged the knife deep into his chest but he slammed her back, pinning her to to ground. He placed his foot on her and stoop upright, howling as he pulled the knife from his chest and cast it away into the night.

But she also had changed as the darkness came. The weakness of the day was gone and now her full strength as a vampire was restored. She grabbeb his ankle and pulled it away from her chest then rolled sideways, pulling him off balance.

They both quickly regained their feet and were back at it. His claws ripped and tore, tearing gashes in her flesh faster than they could heal. She punched and kicked and kneed at him, her blows staggering him backwards.

She was stronger than him, and faster. She danced around him striking from the sides, from behind, from within his defenses, and each blow weakened him while her strength only increased as the night grew darker.

Yet he continued to fight as an animal, charging and lunging, trying to keep his head low. He used his claws and teeth, shrugging off many of her attacks and coming back against her more powerful blows.

Across the field they fought, she mostly driving him, keeping him on the defensive. She would often let him land a strike so she could come in a deliver a more devastating blow. He growled and snarled and howled, his wolf voice echoing loudly in the dark, yet she kept at it, punching and kicking, landing blow after blow, knocking him down again and again, pushing him back, bruising his muscles and cracking his bones.

She landed a heavy blow against the side of his head and he fell heavy to the ground. He came back up but his footing was unsteady and she charged in landing more hits, her fists pounding against him driving him down to one knee. He howled in pain and frustration and she let out her own gleeful howl. Her howl caught in her throats as a powerful hand wrapped around it, long claws cutting deeply into her flesh.

Gaelen looked up through swollen eyes, and he grinned, barring sharp fangs. She had gone in for a killing blow but had gotten careless and now he held her firmly as she struggled to break free. His grip was like iron and he squeezed harder and harder.

He stood up, lifting her off the ground by her neck. She rained blows down on his arm trying to break free. He howled loudly, his hot breath rushing over her face. Then he drove his other hand into her chest, tearing through bone and flesh, until his claws enveloped around her heart and he squeezed.

 

[Esplandia]

The days following the attack on Bravondy were bittersweet. Many had been wounded in the shelling and bombing attacks and the death toll had been calculated in the hundreds. But word had spread that the Black Duchess was dead and she had been killed by Gaelen Marishkov.

The Church and the Azure Dawn had brought aid into the city. Medical help, food, clothing, and temporary shelters were prepared to house the injured and homeless from the attack.

Many of the nation's leaders made appearances in the city, giving out aid and making sure to be seen. The Queen had been in the city for the day, touring one of the aid stations but many had noticed the increased security around her. It was obvious that her advisers were still worried about her safety.

After her visit Jadzia was flown east. The Azure Dawn was keeping her safe in their chapterhouse on the coast. The attack on the capital had shown one thing, the government was still quite weakened from the war. In fact people began to wonder if perhaps the war wasn't over, and that the enemy was still going strong. Whatever the case was, the future didn't look as hopeful as it had just a few days before.