My Name is Emeraldsmith



My name is Emeraldsmith. Emeraldsmith Kunzalion or rather Kunzalion Saltriata. To many, I am just Mith, or Mischeef. I am a huntress, an elven assassin of my world. Few know me as Emeraldsmith, and even fewer know that I am Emeraldsmith Kunzalion Saltriata. For Emeraldsmith Kunzalion Saltriata is the daughter of empress Mythrion Kazlni Saltriata, and emperor Emeram Kunlion Saltriata. However, I am she, and yet I am not. I am Mith the elf, and Mischeef the shape shifter, and always, I am the assassin. Yet, right now, I am just a mere merchant in Tiranhan. My traveling companions have little to say to me, I am a higher class. Today, I go to see the prince, whom I have been sent to watch. I hope that the prophets were wrong. However, I am not sure, but I know I am not alone in the city. We are the underground assassins, and we are the best. Together we will end this war… this tyranny! Tonight, I shall meet the brotherhood of assassins. Brotherhood…how odd, I belong to a brotherhood, but I am a sister. I hope that the males will not try to use me as a servant, I will be one of the few in charge…
Mith stopped for a moment, glanced at the paper. Shaking her head, she threw the paper in the fire. Better for no one to have a chance to find out, it was too risky. She sighed, ran a silver filigree brush through her light blonde hair. Glancing in the mirror Mith grimaced, and taking a small paintbrush, ran some soft black paint about her eyes. Using a different brush Mith ran a dark red rose color upon her lips. She threw on a soft blue robe about her shoulders, it fell covering her soft leather boots. Mith glanced into the mirror again, shrugged, turned and walked out of the room.
Emeraldsmith’s porters followed her quickly. A single servant helped Mith up into the saddle of her horse. It wasn’t becoming for a lady or high station to climb upon her own horse like a common farmer, and Mith was posing as a lady of high station. Sitting sidesaddle, she gripped the reigns negligently as another servant handed her a scroll. Slowly Mith began to ride through the paved streets towards the palace. Merchants haggled, and porters carried heavily loaded bags. The streets were busy in the marketplace, and she road right through it. The women cast down there eyes, and the men stood apart, for her robe showed her to be the top merchant of the capital. They were but humble, simple, traveling merchants.
When Mith reached the palace, the sentry gave her entry immediately. A groom came and helped her off her horse, and led her mount to the stables. Emeraldsmith walked very directly towards the front of the palace. The grand Chamberlain, Jihar, met her at the door. Jihar was from her homeland, so he knew her identity. He was sent to watch over Mith, and so he warned her of anything he could. He bowed to Mith respectfully, and she curtsied with infinite grace.
“My dear, how have you been, Mischeef?” asked Jihar, kissing her hand.
“Fair, I suppose, Jihar. How is the royalty today?” Mith replied, with a slight smile.
“Tolerant, but be wary, they aren’t being kind to outsiders. Do not test their tempers, they seem kind, but that can be gone as quick as lightning!” Jihar said seriously.
“I will be careful, dear Jihar,” Mith smiled softly to him. He sighed, and led her through the jeweled halls.
“Here we are, My Lady,” Jihar said respectfully. Slowly the doors were opened and she was announced.
“The Grand Merchantess, Sagathani Delrinia Fanulri, Duchess of the Firondan Woods!” the herald boomed in a deep voice. Mith stepped slowly into the room, and all went silent. Gracefully she approached the grand throne, Jihar walking a respectful distance behind her. Mith curtsied as floridly, and with all the grandiose, she had in her possession. Slowly looking up she glanced around, the courtiers were all speechless, the king and queen held soft smiles.
“I thank you for seeing me in such a grand court, your Majesties, and Highness. I am but a humble and honest merchantess, come to seek favor from the kingdom of which I am. I hope I am not too much of a terrible disappointment to you, but I tried to make myself presentable.” Mith said in a soft rich voice that carried throughout the hall, and slowly she rose from her deep curtsy. Her open front robe showed that underneath she wore a dark midnight blue skirt, a lovely black and gold bodice, and a light lavender chemise. Mith’s honey golden hair spilled in soft waves over her one shoulder, while her now crystal green eyes sparkled with innocence.
“You are not a disappointment at all, m’lady. Please approach, for your beauty dazzles my eyes senseless. I would behold it from the vantage few have,” the Prince said, quickly coming down from the dais, reaching for her hand. Mith looked at him in shock, the Prince offered no one his hand! Slowly Mith reached up, and he grasped her hand firmly. The court gasped, and he led her up towards the kind and queen.
“You truly are a beauty to behold, Sagathani! Such as the rose that lies hidden,” the king said respectfully.
“The stars in your eyes twinkle at me from the horizon, dear Duchess.” The queen said smiling her soft smile.
“You are all much too kind. I am not worthy of such extravagant praise from such respected monarchs.” Mith replied, smiling a smile to melt stone.
“Shall we go apart to speak? I hear there are many things that must be addressed. Such as the merchants complaints,” the Prince said eagerly. The King and Queen rose, walking out arm in arm rather slowly. The Prince again grasped Mith’s hand and laid it upon his arm properly. Mith was quite surprised, for he did this, again, for no one. They walked through a door at the end of the hall.
The Prince kept looking at her sideways, when he thought Mith was not looking. Mith didn’t understand, he saw ladies of the court everyday, why would she be any different? Mith sighed and followed the royal couple, her head demurely hung. They led her into a much smaller chamber, for informal meetings. Finally, Mith looked up, and glanced around, this place was simple, modest even. There was a long table with eight large oak chairs. A small vase sat to one side beneath a window, in it held thirteen white roses. Hung about the room were velvet draperies, of the deepest midnight blue.
“It’s beautiful is it not?” The Prince asked quietly. Mith had almost forgotten he was there. She saw him watching her silently, waiting for an answer.
“Yes, it is… I have traveled far, but I have not seen such simple beauty. Take the roses for example. A simple flower, so beautiful, so pure, and so fragile. It makes you wonder if you are wandering in a dream. There is gaudy beauty, such as it is with most palaces and people of the courts, there is no beauty, as is with most peasants homes, and then there is simple beauty, such as can be found so rarely.” Mith spoke quietly, and with vehemence. He watched her, his expression softening with each musical word she said. “Indeed, few have seen that, for I had thought I was alone in that. Please sit next to me, or at least across from me so I may marvel at your own beauty.”
Mith blushed very slightly, and sat down lightly in the chair he offered her. He sat next to her, and half turned to look at her. Mith looked down again, for she knew how to act around the royalty. Jihar stood next to the doorway, watching silently. He seemed rather disapproving of how Mith was acting, or perhaps the attention the Prince was giving her. “Now, Sagathani, we must speak,” the king said abruptly.
“Yes, Kaenon is right… don’t you agree, Talondren?” the queen asked abruptly, no longer smiling. Her voice was like ice falling down Mith’s back.
“Of course, mother, we must. What information does the Duchess Sagathani have for us today?” He asked, tearing his eyes from Emeraldsmith.
“Naldrena, try not to be so hostile to our guest, please,” King Kaenon said firmly. “I was being polite, Kaenon… but let’s hear what she has to say for the people,” said Queen Naldrena. King Kaenon threw her a withering look.
“The people are restless. They wonder when the bounty harvest will be pulled. It’s becoming late in the season, and they are worried. The draught has cost many money, and the farmers worry about permanent damage…” Emeraldsmith started, but was quickly cut off.
“We knew of that… what do they plan to do about it? Any mutiny planned, any revolts? How much is this costing us? Tell us things relevant to us, girl,” Queen Naldrena cut her off, giving her a nasty look.
“So far there hasn’t been anything, but I have people on it. A few people have mentioned mutiny or revolts, but no one has thought twice about it. However, the economy is dropping, from last year to this year you have lost about five million gold pieces of your surplus for the year. As I was saying thought, the farmers are worried about permanent damage, so I’ll see what we can do to fix that, or that’ll end up costing much more over the years. Other than that, call harvest as soon as possible! We’re losing more money each day the harvest is delayed!” Emeraldsmith looked at Queen Naldrena, shocked at the fury in her eyes.
“Thank you, Lady Sagathani. You have served us well, and we are glad to have you as our eyes among the people,” King Kaenon said respectfully. He stood and bowed, his eyes lingering on Mith, while the Queen rose and looked at her coldly.
“May I escort her Ladyship out to the stables? It would be nice to have a simple talk,” Prince Talondren asked.
“Of course,” the king replied before Naldrena could say anything. She gave him one furious look and left the room, the king right behind her. The Prince sighed, and offered Mith his arm, dismissing Jihar. With that, Talondren led Mith outside, through small passages that weren’t used anymore.
“I apologize for my mother. She was rude, and I do not understand why she doesn’t like you… but I did really want to have a long conversation with you,” the Prince said with a sigh.
“Her Majesty wasn’t rude, she was treating me as an inferior, which I happen to be. But I would gladly hold a conversation with you any day you wish, Your Highness,” she replied softly. He looked at Mith sideways again.
“What about now? Perhaps we could sit in here,” Talondren motioned to a small room with a long bench and a window.
“Of course, My Lord, as you wish,” she said. Thus, he led her into the small room, and sat Mith upon the bench lightly. For a few moments, Talondren simply watched Mith, and she turned to look out the window. Sunlight was pouring through the small window, setting her hair to glowing like a halo of an angel.
“Do you realize that I have watched you for years, milady?” Prince Talondren asked suddenly. Emeraldsmith started slightly, and turned to look at him with wide eyes. “Nay, milord. I had never noticed. But why?” Mith’s look was puzzled.
“Because when I first saw you, your beauty struck me to the core. It still does to this day,” he spoke gently, Mith’s eyes grew wider. He reached out and took her hand again. “I have never known anyone like you, Sagathani. I hope that I never do again, because it would mar my image of you,” said Prince Talondren.
“Milord, why do you tell me this? I am but a simple woman, one struggling in the sea of the world. I have so many things about me I wish I could forget, and hope that no one ever learns…” Mith began, only to be cut off.
“Tell me! I want to know you, I want to be a part of the wondrous woman, who is Sagathani Delrinia Fanulri. The beauty who catches every eye, the one with a pure heart. I wish that you would speak to me. I want to be the companion neither of us ever had. I can see that you are as lonely as I am, but I wish for us not to be lonely. I want you to be a part of me as well,” the intensity of which he spoke startled Emeraldsmith. She lowered her eyes.
“There are thing you would never want to know about me, Your Highness,” she said, almost in a whisper.
“I want to know everything,” Talondren said, close to her ear.
“There are some things I could never let you find out. It would be too dangerous, and it would make it so that you would not wish me in your sight ever again. Things about my past that I would be killed for to this day. Marks that never come off,” she said. Looking up into his eyes. Eyes the color of a jaguar, brilliant green.
“Tell me.” He brought her hand to his lips again. Mith stood suddenly and went to the window. Standing with her hands folded before her Mith started at the sky. Prince Talondren too stood, and walked over to her silently. Putting his arms around Mith he pulled her to him, where she clung to him as though for life. “Tell me,” Talondren whispered into her hair.
And so Mith did, everything…

“I was only three years old. I was a fair-haired child, and I had bright eyes of a dragon. Mother and father were away on some quest. I don’t remember what… all I remember was being left in the care of a tall man. I was an only child, and I was loved by many of the village. At three I could already walk talk, and read fairly advanced books for a three year old. Something else they noticed about me was my voice. Mature, rich, and tinkling like a faery bell. And I never seemed alone, I had the faeries with me everywhere I went. “My faeries were my only friends, Khiana, Niami, Sitira, Denia, Maiari, and Tetsoura. Khiana was my closest faery, she was my watcher, my guide. Everyone said that I had been blessed by them, and that I had the faery blood in me. They could see it in my eyes, and the way I spoke. I was always a rambunctious child, and with the faeries I was even more so. But as I grew older I learned that faeries weren’t real. So they left me.” Mith paused here as though remembering.
“I was alone,” Mith continued, “I remember calling out for someone, and getting no one. But when I was three a stranger came to our home. The man watching me hid me quickly, I thought it was a wonderful game. But it was no game. He was looking for special people… people like me. The ones touched by the faery blood, the ones who were gateways… and other things.
“I never understood what had happened, until I was thirteen. Nothing happened, other than the stranger came back several times over the years, and each time I was hidden. All I remember was he had black hair and black eyes… and chalk white skin. Scaly, but yet not… it’s difficult to explain. But anyways, he came back, but he never found me. The lonely girl.
“As I grew older, I matured well, and became more lonely. The people of the town stayed away from me. They wouldn’t talk to me, they wouldn’t touch me, as though they were scared of me. The strange girl, the one who lost her faeries, but could call on nature. For I learned to do just that. I could call on the powers of nature as easily as you call a servant. For when I was sad, we had storms until I had reason to be happy. When I was angry, I would cause fires in the hallway. My tantrums became tornado’s, and the earth would hide me in it’s crevasses when it became too much.
“Slowly though, I learned to control it. I no longer cause it to rain, or catch things on fire, or at least not normally on accident. It took me three years to master my powers, and it was a slow process. Finally, I started to learn to sing. That was how I would control myself even more. I would sing if I was happy, I would sing if I was sad, I would sing if I was angry, and even more so when I was lonely. That’s when the animals learned me. “The animals would come to me, and see me, and comfort me. The wolves taught me the ways of the forest hunt, the fish to swim with ease, the squirrels taught how to climb. Though the wolves and the birds trained my voice to even greater heights. They understood me, and they adopted me. More and more, I found myself in the forest, away from the hustle and bustle of the town. The tree’s would speak to me alone.
“But when I turned thirteen, I was confined to my home. I could not leave, and I rarely got visitors. The birds brought me news, but it rained almost constantly for three years. I was lonely, I had no one. My parents loved me dearly, and did all they could for me, but I was still lonely.
“One day though, an older lady came calling. She had seen me through a window, and wanted to talk to me. She sensed I was a gateway, and she heard the voices in my own. She knew I was a fae more than the other fae. She taught me how to believe again, and I saw the dragons, and the faeries once more.
“When I was sixteen, I left home. I had too many suitors that did not love me. I had too many problems, so I left. I came here and became what I am today. A spy, if you will, for your parents, and an honest merchantess. My family wishes me to fulfill my duties, but there is nothing for me back there…perhaps one day though.
For my name is Emeraldsmith Kunzalion Saltriata, the Imperial daughter of the Matrian Elves.”

And with that Emeraldsmith looked up into the jaguar eyes, her own bright with unshed tears. She lost her breath at what she saw there, acceptance, and joy, mixed with something else, but Emeraldsmith could not tell what. Talondren held her closer, and fiercely, as though she was about to fall forever from him. Emeraldsmith leaned against him, tears leaking slowly out of her eyes.
“Don’t worry, I’m here… I’ll always be here, Emeraldsmith,” Talondren said stroking her hair.
“Perhaps, but if your mother found out…” Emeraldsmith started.
“Forget her, once she is gone I will rule, and this war against the elves will be no more! Perhaps even sooner… because you are my equal, my dear,” he murmured into her ear. “Your father would have no problem… but no, I will not think that way,” Emeraldsmith turned her head aside. Talondren grasped her chin firmly, and tilted her head up, kissing her lips softly.
“I have known you for ten years, and I have always longed to love you, hold you, and be with you. But you have chased me away, now I know you, and I will be a part of you,” he said against her lips.
“What about…”
“Nothing, I will make everyone see. You are so kind and gentle, so fragile, I will protect you.” With that he led her outside. Walking with Emeraldsmith into the stables Talondren ordered a groom to get her horse ready.
“Also, tomorrow I’ll be announcing a ball, for four days from the ‘morrow. Be sure to be there, my Lady Sagathani,” he said with a broad wink as the groom walked up. Leading Emeraldsmith’s mount outside, Prince Talondren himself helped her up and led her mount through the gates.

The announcement came as a shock, but King Kaenon announced that a ball was to be held with a grand air. At the Prince’s request… four days hence, and do not tarry too long from it, for it will be the occasion of the season! The Prince stood behind him, with Mith in the front row. Talondren watched her the entire time, noticing again her grace, and her beauty. When it was time for him to say something on the ball, he started slightly. “This ball was at my request, because we all need a jovial occasion! Please come, for a surprise will be happening during this dance. It will be held in the palace ballroom, and there will be a large band, with a talented young singer. Again, please show, good day to you all.” And so Talondren stepped down and grasped Emeraldsmith’s hand kissing it lightly, and smiling widely, before turning away.
“Be sure to come, My Lady,” he called to her.
“I wouldn’t miss it, Your Highness,” Mith called back smiling, before the throng cast her off.

Emeraldsmith looked at herself in the mirror again, it would have to do. The grand ball was tonight, she would have to be there. Emeraldsmith looked at her lady-in-waiting, a young brunette girl… something wasn’t right in her eyes, but it was of no matter. She smiled at Emeraldsmith, and led her outside. Draping a pearly white cape about Mith’s shoulders, and holding the reigns of her pale horse. Emeraldsmith mounted with a nervous air, and took the reigns from her maid.
“Have a wondrous time, Milady,” she called as Mith rode down the cobblestone lane towards the castle. Emeraldsmith ran into few people along the way, but the few she did see stopped to watch her. She supposed this was a good sign, but she could not be sure. Finally, Mith reached the castle, the courtyard lit with torches and softly glowing candles. Jihar helped her off her horse, and bowed deeply to her.
“My Lady, your beautiful tonight. You’re missing something though,” he spoke quietly. “What might that be, Dear Jihar,” Emeraldsmith asked slightly puzzled.
“A jewel fit only for a queen, as that is who you are,” Jihar said with a slight smile.
“But I do not need jewels, besides, it’s much too late to go back now for one!” she exclaimed.
“But, perhaps I have one waiting for you… behind my back.” Jihar grinned. He pulled out a small plain box, and handed it Emeraldsmith. Mith opened it and laid her eyes upon the most beautiful necklace that she had ever seen. A simple silver chain that clasped in the back, but in the front was a gorgeous ornament. Silver Celtic knot work surrounding a large star ruby, and two smaller gray star sapphires. Emeraldsmith’s eyes widened immediately.
“Oh, Jihar, I don’t know how to thank you! It’s beautiful, but can I accept this?” Emeraldsmith asked suddenly, looking up to him.
“Of course you can, now put it on,” Jihar said, slipping it from her fingers and clasping it around her neck. It hugged her neck comfortably, and twinkled perfectly to the passerby. Jihar clasped Emeraldsmith’s hand, and gave her a slight push towards the doors with a large sincere smile.
Emeraldsmith walked slowing into the ballroom. A servant took her pearly cape and left her alone. Mith walked uncertainly towards the stairs, her skirts rustling. A soft tinkling came from somewhere around her. When Emeraldsmith reached the stairs, another servant took her name and rank. She stood nervously in her satin and brocade dress. Suddenly the sentry’s deep voice boomed across the ballroom.
“Her grand lady, Duchess of Firondan Woods, Countess of Natharin, Baroness of Andrian, the Grand Merchantess most prosperous, Lady Sagathani Delrinia Fanulri!” Slowly Emeraldsmith stepped forward, her golden hair catching the light. Her dress gleamed, and Mith stood silently, lashes lowered demurely.
Emeraldsmith’s silver-gold hair spilled over one bare shoulder, cascading over her lavender brocade bodice. Her satin sleeves were black and a tight fit to the elbow; from there, they flared out into dark angel wings. Mith’s rustling satin skirts of midnight blue cast a startling contrast to her pale skin. Her green crystal eyes looked slowly out from between coal black lashes. Emeraldsmith’s cheeks flushed, bringing out her delicate cheekbones. While her full rosy lips seemed to tremble slightly, invitingly. Mith had but the one noticeable jewel upon her, the brilliant star ruby necklace, as she moved the two gray star sapphires flanking it on the silver chain winked out at the crowd below.
Every eye was upon Emeraldsmith, the princess of the Matrian. She slowly glided down the stairs, her swan neck turning to look about. Emeraldsmith’s grace took many a breath away, and she was now trembling with excitement. One hand resting lightly upon the marble banister, her silver shoes clicking on the floor, Mith descended. A soft faery-like tinkle surrounded her.
Emeraldsmith reached the bottom of the stairs and stood there a moment before someone rushed to meet her. Prince Talondren walked swiftly to her, catching her hand, and kissing it lightly. Talondren’s eyes flitted quickly over her, taking in every detail. His bright eyes fell upon the necklace, and Talondren smiled widely. Reaching out, he laid his hand lightly upon it, tracing the intricate design.
“You are beautiful, my dear. You always are, but more so tonight than ever before,” Talondren spoke in his rich voice, leading Emeraldsmith away by the hand. Everywhere Mith walked she got coveting and longing looks. Men’s eyes wandered from their dance partners, and women sighed when she came near. Emeraldsmith followed Prince Talondren quietly, listening to the oratory he provided.
“Countess Vera, complete prostitute, the slimy slug…Baron Toran, fawning bootlicker… the Duke Evan, he’s not completely corrupt, yet… ah yes, Milady,” Talondren stopped and bowed to one voluptuous dark woman. She has thrust her way into their path, tossing her silky raven hair. Her golden eyes were those of a hunter, a falcon.
“Your Highness,” she curtsied, “I wondered if I could have a private, ah, word?”
“No, I’m afraid not, milady. I have duties to take care of,” Talondren replied coolly. “Perhaps another time,” she called after him, her golden eyes gleaming.
“I’m so sorry about that, Sagathani, the Duchess Faera is a complete vixen. She has been trying to catch me for years, I’ve evaded her, and I hope I have found a permanent solution… but that is beside the point. May we proceed to their Majesties?” Talondren spoke looking at her sideways. Emeraldsmith smiled, her eyes twinkling, and her jeweled necklace gleaming.
“Indeed, your Highness,” Emeraldsmith said quietly. Her voice light and airy, with a slight tinkle, and several unidentifiable accents. Talondren looked at Mith again, and he grinned.
“Let’s drop the ‘Highness’, milady, please! Call me Talon from now on,” Talondren grinned, before muttering, “If I may call you by something shorter as well?” Mith was startled, looking into his eyes.
“Not Talondren Madreer?” Emeraldsmith asked her eyes innocently wide. “Never again, only Talon,” he said grinning.
“Perhaps a shorter name of your choice for me, milord, if you wish,” she said lowering her lashes playfully.
“Perhaps Sagi? May I call you Sagi? Or perhaps Mith,” Talondren muttered in Mith’s ear. Talondren widened his eyes pleadingly, Emeraldsmith nodded mutely, and he squeezed her hand gently. Suddenly the swirling sea of colors parted and they were standing before a raised dais. King Kaenon and Queen Naldrena were sitting upon it in quite conversation. Emeraldsmith curtsied extremely low, bowing her swans neck. Prince Talondren bowed deeply before his mother and father as well. Slowly they rose to the beckoning of the royalty.
“Hello, Lady Sagathani, how are you, my dear?” asked Queen Naldrena in a falsely bright voice, embracing her and planting a quick kiss on Mith’s cheek.
“Simply ravishing! You will leave a trail of broken hearts tonight, milady,” spoke King Kaenon jovially while he too embraced her.
“Your Majesties, I’m absolutely wonderful tonight, and I’m sure there are other attractive ladies out dancing about,” Emeraldsmith laughed in answer to them. Prince Talondren linked his arm with her, and grinned widely as he spoke.
“Speaking of dancing, will you honor me with one,” he asked properly.
“Certainly, Highness!” was the simple reply. With that, Talondren steered Mith out to the center of the floor. Emeraldsmith noticed how truly handsome Talondren looked that night. He’s disheveled blonde hair falling lightly into his eyes. Talondren’s devil-may-care grin, and tilted jaguar eyes drew Mith in. His fine black and white stripped tights, and pearled brocade doublet cast such a contrast to Emeraldsmith. Talondren and Emeraldsmith were like the sun and moon in the sky, forever dancing so close, but never truly touching. His soft half boots with their one silver hilted dagger drew it all together, as Mith finally fell into Talondren’s arms. With one hand upon Talon’s shoulder the other held lightly in his own, Emeraldsmith danced with Talon, his hand warm about her waist. Emeraldsmith was twirling and laughing as though she was a child again. The tinkling around her became more pronounced, and her hair flew around, shining in the light. The band stopped and struck a much slower tune, and Talondren pulled Emeraldsmith close. Talon wrapped his arms about Mith’s waist, while Mith placed both of hers around talon’s neck, leaning against him. Slowly Talondren reached up and stroked Emeraldsmith’s hair, and Mith laid her head upon Talon’s shoulder. They twirled slowly in the ballroom, the singer’s voice falling slowly into silence.
Emeraldsmith looked up into jaguar eyes. Mith lost her breath as she saw something in the depths of Talondren’s eyes. It took all Mith’s strength not to back away, or perhaps fall closer to Talondren. No man had ever looked at Mith like that, though the next second Mith saw it no more in Talondren’s eyes. Though the next second Mith’s breath was taken away again, for Talondren leaned and kissed her softly. They stood that way for a blessed second, the one-second when all the world made sense to Emeraldsmith. Then the band struck a new tune, an ancient minor tune. One that few still knew, and Emeraldsmith was one of those lucky few. Mith turned and walked slowly to the platform, the prince following curiously. Suddenly it struck a haunting chord, and Emeraldsmith lifted her voice in song. Her voice created chords alone, as if several sang with her. It was her voice, and hers alone, cascading with ease as though over strings. The room went silent, and her voice sang to the ancients. Her voice rose and fell, swelled and diminished, carried the melody and harmony, all at the same time. The band played modernly, for the ancient way was forgotten. Except to Emeraldsmith, for her voice sang the most ancient of the song, the original. Emeraldsmith’s voice held such great sorrow, the sadness of the ages mother, but yet, it also held joy, and hope for the future. Her eyes sparkled with unshed tears of that shining hope, while she sang on, her voice ringing true. Soaring to the heavens high as the flute, and falling to hell, low as the primal drumbeat. Finally, Emeraldsmith faded her voice out, the final chord humming in the silent air. Mith stepped down, into Prince Talondren’s waiting arms. The applause was thunderous, and Talondren’s eyes were bright, with unashamed tears.
“Why didn’t you tell us you sang,” Talon asked his voice thick. Talondren held Emeraldsmith with reverence, and his eyes shone with an inner light. Mith looked up and replied quietly.
“I’m nothing special, I sing how I was taught to sing,” Emeraldsmith spoke with such simplicity, the tinkling around her with renewed strength. She whispered something, as though to herself, or the air, and the tinkling lessened.
“But your voice…” Talon trailed off. Shaking himself slightly, “Oh never mind, Sagi. If you would come with me, it’s time for me to announce the high idea of the ball,” he glanced around conspiratorially.
“All right, but hurry, please,” Emeraldsmith whispered into Talondren’s ear. Talon led Mith back to the stage, and stood for a moment waiting for the song to finish. With a final glance at Mith, Prince Talondren walked onto the stage. Every eye was upon Talondren, and every breath was held. Emeraldsmith stood to one side, eyes sparkling for Talondren alone.
“You all have wondered why I have had this ball held, no?” Talondren started, standing every bit a prince. “Well, it wasn’t just a tiny whim of a spoiled prince… or a whim or my parents,” Talon paused again. “I had this ball for an extremely special reason… but first, my parents have been pressuring on me for a few good years. I’m a prince, act like it, I’m not fulfilling my duties, and so on. Well, I’ve decided to finally try to fulfill at least one duty to them, but certainly not because of them. I’m do this because someone very special came into my life several years ago, finally. My rose in a garden of lilies, my diamond in the coal, something that was the same, but completely different at the same time. A faery in the forest came to me, they stole my heart and soul.” At this there was a rustling among the impatient audience.
“Yes, a faery, a nymph, an elf stole my heart,” Talondren said fiercely. “Though, if I have stolen theirs back, I do not know. I only can hope that they will accept me, and if I may have one of their secrets become known. For I would love the truth not the mask, and I would have you do so as well,” Talondren turned silently to Emeraldsmith, beckoning her up. Emeraldsmith moved her satin skirts, and walked up the steps, when Talondren grasped her hand gently. Kissing Mith’s hand and laying a rose in it, Talon whispered to her.
“May I, milady, tall them the truth? How Sagathani Delrinia Fanulri is Emeraldsmith Kunzalion Saltriata? Please, my dear, my love,” Talondren said, his eyes pleading once more. Mutely and speechless, Emeraldsmith nodded slowly. So finally her secret would be known… Emeraldsmith was scared, but somehow, she was strangely relieves it was over. For very soon, Emeraldsmith could be dead on the floor right there.
“My I present, Emeraldsmith Kunzalion Saltriata, jewel of the Imperial Matrian Elves,” Lord Prince Talondren announced with a flourish and bow, switching his grip on Mith, protecting her from any sudden attack.
“NO,” came a scream of rage. Queen Naldrena came quickly forward. “Get away from that filth! Don’t touch her, and certainly don’t trust her, the Faery blooded shape shifting ELF,” screamed the Queen. Spittle flew from her mouth in her rage, her face purpling. Suddenly the King stepped up, and power emanated from him. “Step down, Naldrena. Emeraldsmith has down nothing to us, she has helped us if nothing else! Besides, your time has expired, guards, take her out. Mutiny towards the crown, and unfaithfulness to the King. As with anyone else who has any disagreements with this elf,” Kaenon’s voice boomed out over the crowd.
Emeraldsmith stood there shocked to the core, but the shocks weren’t over yet. The King stood by her for the next five minutes, waiting for a guard to come back and say it’s ready.
“My darling, I’m sorry this had to happen,” Talondren said close to tears, holding her close.
“As long as you love me it doesn’t matter,” Emeraldsmith said slightly indistinctly. “What’s wrong,” Talon asked alarmed.
“Nothing, oh I don’t know, I’m just trying to figure this all out!” With that Mith fell into Talon’s arms once more.
“Are there any other problems with the Lady Emeraldsmith Kunzalion Saltriata? Please, don’t be afraid to speak up,” Kaenon said ominously, drawing a large broadsword from his belt. Suddenly Emeraldsmith looked up.
“Put that away, there will be no more bloodshed tonight! At least not from us slaughtering ourselves,” Mith hissed at him. Emeraldsmith looked into the air, her eyes becoming unfocused. The tinkling grew around her, swelling, urgently. Mith nodded again, and the room was flooded with light.
“Silence! Everyone hear my words!” Emeraldsmith’s voice rang over the crowd, loud and authoritive. “Danger approaches, dragon riders from the north and east. The Acid Spinners, and Cloud Racers are coming, we must be ready! Prepare yourselves, for we are not safe fighting among ourselves! Humans, elves, mortals, shape shifters, and the fae folk must work together tonight, if only for now. Gather any weapons that can be used, and send the guard in! I will see what came be done,” with that Emeraldsmith stepped away from Talondren, and followed the sparkling lights.
“Go back, My Prince,” Mith said without looking back.
“No, I will not allow my lady to face this alone,” Talon said, firmness in every syllable. “So you will finally see me make my magic, very well. Besides I think you have talent you don’t know of yet, for my faeries happen to like you,” Emeraldsmith said glancing over her shoulder.
“Your faeries?” Talon asked stopping dead, looking at the winking lights around her.
“Aye, now grab a sword, and follow me,” So Emeraldsmith and the Prince walked out. He grabbed a broadsword from the guard, and walked with Mith, watching her draw daggers from various parts of her clothing. Two from Mith’s bodice, front and back, and four from her boots. Mith handed Talon one, while using another to cut her skirt along the sides. Emeraldsmith’s shapely legs flashed in and out of view, even with the danger coming Talondren’s throat caught.
“Milady, my announcement was for you. If we make it through this, will you marry me?” the words fell out of Talon’s mouth in a rush. Emeraldsmith smiled, and kissed his cheek, finally stopping and standing with her legs should width apart.
“Of course, my love, but I want a proper proposal when we get out of this,” she grinned, and turned her face to the clear sky. Mith’s face and hair were suddenly damp, then drenched. She had called help… from the elements.