Expansion Taking El Gran | The Grand Welcome

[Kingdom Of Espada]

As the subtle but unmistakable show of unity passed between Marcus and Lady Aris, a ripple of understanding moved through the gathered nobles. The silent message was clear: Lady Aris, backed by the might of Espada, was not a force to be trifled with. Her claim to power, strengthened by Marcus’s influence, would be a formidable one to dispute. Any who dared challenge her would not only face her but risk the ire of Espada’s vast empire—an alliance that promised both strength and consequence.

Yet ambition and personal desires rarely faded easily. While some nobles took note, murmuring quietly to one another, a few others exchanged furtive glances, signaling their reluctance to concede. They would need to tread carefully but were not yet willing to abandon their aspirations. Lord Valen, in particular, stood among them, his calculating gaze watching Marcus intently.

As the night continued, Lord Valen moved with purpose, seeking a moment to approach one of the royal attendants, his voice low and deliberate. “I request a private audience with the King,” he murmured. “There are… matters of succession that require the utmost discretion, and my counsel is best heard directly.”

The attendant gave a subtle nod, understanding the delicate nature of such a request, and assured him the King would be notified as soon as possible. Lord Valen’s expression remained unreadable, but beneath it, a plan was already forming—a means to shift power without appearing to disrupt the unity Marcus had displayed.

For now, Valen would play his part in the grand event, but his mind churned with schemes. If he could secure a meeting with the King, perhaps he could plant seeds of doubt or subtly isolate Marcus from Lady Aris’s ascent.

 

[Marcus Aumont]

Marcus led Lord Valen into a quiet, dimly lit chamber on the far side of the hall, ensuring that the walls would keep their conversation concealed from curious ears. Closing the heavy oak door behind them, Marcus motioned for Valen to sit, his own posture relaxed yet commanding as he leaned against the grand fireplace.

Lord Valen, visibly pleased by Marcus’s willingness to engage, began, his voice filled with the eagerness of a man with much to offer. “Lord Marcus, you are a wise man, and you surely know that the future of El Gran requires… stability. While Lady Aris has many qualities, I fear her vision is limited in ways that could hinder Espada’s reach here. My support, on the other hand, could assure you an ally with not only connections but a proven loyalty to tradition and order.”

Marcus listened patiently, his expression unreadable as Valen spoke. The noble continued, emboldened by Marcus’s silence. “Should you choose to grant me Espada’s backing, I would gladly ensure Espadian influence is woven into the very fabric of El Gran. The resources and wealth I command could be channeled in a way that secures your foothold… and brings El Gran fully into the fold of your empire.”

Marcus inclined his head slightly, considering Valen’s words. His tone was cool, measured. “And what exactly would Espada gain in return for this… partnership?” he asked, letting his words hang in the air like a dare.

Valen, caught off guard, leaned forward. “Well, firstly, full access to my lands and resources. My wealth would be at your disposal. And unlike others,” he added with a sly smile, “I would pledge unyielding fealty to Espada and ensure the court does the same.”

Marcus smiled, a hint of something predatory in his gaze. “You paint a generous picture, Lord Valen. Yet, loyalty is not a currency that can be bought; it’s earned—and proven.” His tone held an edge as he continued, “Lady Aris has displayed both strength and intelligence, qualities that Espada admires and values. But tell me, if I were to consider your offer, how do I know you could accomplish what she already promises, if not more?”

Valen stilled for a moment, sensing that he was in a game he only partially understood. But Marcus’s words had him leaning further into his ambition. “Because, Lord Marcus, I am willing to take whatever measures are necessary—where Lady Aris would hesitate. You need not concern yourself with loyalty from me. I am a man who keeps his word… regardless of the cost.”

Marcus’s gaze sharpened, a glint of intrigue flickering there as he sized up the noble. “A bold claim,” he said slowly, his voice soft but lethal. “But know this, Lord Valen: Espada does not offer power idly. To back you would mean more than riches or promises. It would mean action and proof.”

Valen nodded eagerly, misunderstanding the warning in Marcus’s words. He leaned forward. “Whatever you require, I can deliver, my lord.”

Marcus’s smile widened, but it was a cold, calculated expression, far from friendly. He leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. “Then, my dear Lord Valen, let us see if you are as eager to serve as you claim. Prove yourself to Espada’s cause, and I will consider your ambitions. But make no mistake—fail to deliver, and it will not be me who bears the cost.”

Valen’s face blanched ever so slightly, but he swallowed and nodded, sealing his own fate with a confident, “I won’t disappoint.”

Marcus sat back, the master chess player watching the pawn make its first eager move across the board.

 

[Marcus Aumont]

Marcus watched Valen, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth as he assessed the noble’s ambitious resolve. He let the silence hang, savoring the way Valen’s confidence bordered on desperation.

“Good,” Marcus began, his voice smooth, but laced with an edge that warned of hidden teeth. “You understand what you’re asking for, Lord Valen. Espada’s support isn’t a mere endorsement—it’s a promise of control, stability, and transformation. But that transformation requires sacrifice.”

He leaned forward, his gaze piercing. “For me to even consider your proposal, you must first demonstrate your worth. Words are wind, and I’ve heard many tonight; actions, however… those cannot be refuted.”

Valen nodded eagerly, a hint of nervous excitement flashing in his eyes, but Marcus wasn’t finished.

“Lady Aris is no mere obstacle. Her presence and reputation have already secured favor within Espada. Her ambition is tempered with intelligence, not reckless zeal—a quality Espada values highly. So tell me, Valen: what can you provide that she cannot?”

Valen hesitated, momentarily thrown off by Marcus’s challenge. “I… I can provide unwavering loyalty. The nobility trusts me, respects my family name. They know I will protect their interests even as we join Espada.”

Marcus nodded slowly, as if weighing each word. “Perhaps. But loyalty and trust are fragile, easily shattered.” His gaze was penetrating. “I will give you a task, Lord Valen. A trial, if you will, to prove your claims. If you succeed, you’ll earn Espada’s favor—and perhaps a seat of power. But if you fail…” He let the implication linger, his eyes cold.

Valen’s confidence flickered, but he swallowed and straightened, nodding. “Name the task, Lord Marcus.”

Marcus’s smirk grew, satisfied by the noble’s resolve but fully aware of its malleability. “Very well, then. There are certain nobles—those wary of change, of Aris’s ascent—whom I require you to sway.” He leaned back, voice low and calculating. “Convince them of your commitment to Espada and of the inevitability of this union. Soften their resistance, and I will reconsider my support for your ambition.”

Valen’s shoulders squared, and he nodded, determination evident in his eyes. “I’ll make it so, my lord.”

Marcus gave a single nod, his expression unchanging. “Then go. Show me your worth, Lord Valen. Prove that you can play this game as well as you claim.” He watched as Valen inclined his head in respect and turned, ready to enact his first move.

As Valen left, Marcus allowed himself a moment of quiet satisfaction. The pieces were in motion, and soon, one way or another, El Gran would be his.

 

[Kingdom Of Espada]

Lord Valen moved purposefully through the grand hall, his gaze intent as he approached a small group of nobles engaged in subdued conversation near the fire. They turned as he neared, their expressions varying from mild curiosity to wary mistrust.

“My friends,” Valen began, offering a cordial smile, “I realize tonight has brought much to consider. The Espada presence in El Gran stirs many emotions, I know. But I come to you with a new understanding of what their support could mean for us—for our families, our legacy.”

One of the older nobles, Lord Faren, scoffed, folding his arms. “And what has changed your mind, Valen? Just this morning, you were speaking against them. What caused this miraculous shift?”

Valen kept his expression calm, respectful, though he felt the tension building within. “Consider this: Espada is not just a foreign empire seeking to absorb us. They offer stability, strength, and resources beyond anything we could secure alone. And—” he leaned in, lowering his voice conspiratorially, “—they respect us enough to see El Gran as an ally worth courting, not merely conquering.”

Lady Edrea, another noble who had voiced her doubts about Espada earlier, narrowed her eyes. “And what of Lady Aris? You now support her as a leader?”

Valen took a deep breath, careful to frame his words. “I do. Lady Aris has proven capable and bold, and Espada recognizes that. Supporting her aligns us with Espada’s favor, which in turn aligns us with the future. Imagine the influence we would hold if we worked with her to shape that future, rather than resisting it.”

Lord Faren’s expression softened slightly, though suspicion remained in his eyes. “And you believe Espada’s promises? That they would treat us as equals?”

Valen offered a nod, his tone firm. “Espada is not foolish. They know the value of alliance over conquest, and they understand the benefits of a strong, loyal El Gran. Together, we could forge a new era where our voices are heard, our power preserved.” He paused, scanning their expressions, then added, “But this can only happen if we unite under a shared vision. If we resist, we risk division—and Espada will take what it wants regardless.”

Lady Edrea exchanged a look with Faren, her face thoughtful. “It is a gamble, Valen. But… perhaps not an unwise one.”

Valen inclined his head, sensing their hesitation wane. “Then join me. Let us take this opportunity and shape El Gran’s place in Espada’s empire. Lady Aris will lead us with strength, and together, we’ll be more than pawns. We’ll be partners in power.”

The group murmured among themselves, expressions shifting to cautious agreement. Valen’s smile was faint, but it held a certain satisfaction. The game was far from over, but he had just placed his first winning piece on the board.

 

[Marcus Aumont]

As the evening continued, Marcus found a moment to step aside with his Red Mage, who waited in the dim alcove of the hall. Their eyes met, and Marcus gestured subtly, signaling the mage to lean in. They spoke in low tones, blending their insights as though strategizing over a complex battlefield.

“Valen’s come around,” Marcus began with a faint smirk. “He’s begun rallying support among the more cautious nobles, framing Espada’s potential alliance as a partnership rather than a takeover. He seeks to secure his influence, of course, yet he believes we’ve granted him the first move in this arrangement.”

The Red Mage gave a nod, his eyes glinting with understanding. “A man of ambition—useful, if his ambitions align with ours. His shift will sow enough doubt to begin peeling away the more stubborn nobles.”

“Exactly,” Marcus replied. “Valen sees himself as cunning, yet he remains predictable. His offer to us was made under the pretense of loyalty, but his true aim is self-preservation.” He tilted his head, observing the Red Mage’s reaction. “Still, his influence could be valuable in easing the way for Lady Aris, as she is already viewed as the most palatable option among them.”

The mage’s voice dropped to a murmur, “Aris could be a powerful figurehead—beloved by many, yet cautious enough to understand her limits. She seems pragmatic, aware that she needs Espada to stabilize her claim. Our support places her in a strong position… provided she remains loyal.”

Marcus nodded thoughtfully, then lowered his voice further. “While Valen plays his part, I want you to focus on confirming what we’ve heard about the King’s health. If his condition is indeed as precarious as the whispers suggest, this will accelerate Aris’s rise and, in turn, expedite our integration into El Gran’s ruling structure. I trust your… subtlety will go unnoticed.”

“Of course, my lord,” the Red Mage replied, a subtle grin forming. “And should I uncover any unexpected obstacles?”

Marcus’s gaze hardened, his tone unwavering. “Then we’ll address them swiftly. But for now, we let Valen feel as though he holds a stake in Espada’s favor. By the time he realizes otherwise, El Gran will already be ours.”

The mage gave a respectful bow before disappearing into the crowd, each of them returning to the game with renewed purpose, aware of the delicate balance they needed to maintain to bring El Gran entirely within Espada’s grasp.

 

[The Night Court]

In the shadows of the grand hall, Bartholomew, the Red Mage, moved with practiced ease, slipping from the prying eyes of the nobles and guards alike. He found a small, darkened alcove near the towering marble columns, just secluded enough to perform a quick enchantment. His fingertips glowed with a faint crimson light as he focused, whispering arcane words in the ancient tongue, casting an enchantment that only he and Marcus knew.

A soft glow materialized before him, shifting and swirling until it took the shape of a slender white serpent. Its scales shimmered like frost, eyes gleaming with an intelligence beyond that of any natural creature. Bartholomew held out his hand, and the spectral snake coiled around his wrist, awaiting its command.

“Go,” he whispered, imbuing the creature with a single purpose: to seek out the King’s quarters and learn the truth of his health. The serpent flicked its tongue, sensing its master’s intent, before slipping from his wrist and slithering into the shadows of the palace hallways.

Bartholomew knew the snake would move unseen, spectral enough to evade human eyes, quiet enough to glide past guards undetected. It wound its way through the labyrinthine corridors, slipping beneath doors and between cracks in walls until it found itself in the King’s private chambers. There, under the faint flicker of candlelight, the snake observed the frail figure on the bed—a man aged beyond his years, his breathing shallow and labored, a pallor overtaking his once-vigorous complexion.

From the hushed voices of the attendants, the snake gathered bits of information—the King’s condition was indeed as grave as rumored. The healers had done all they could, but his health had declined steadily, with little hope of recovery. Even the King himself seemed resigned to his fate, muttering feverishly about securing his legacy and ensuring El Gran’s stability after his passing.

The snake lingered a moment longer, catching the murmurs of nearby advisors as they spoke in hushed tones about potential successors, discussing the merits and drawbacks of various candidates, including Lady Aris.

Satisfied, the white serpent retreated silently, winding back through the hallways until it returned to Bartholomew. It coiled around his wrist again before fading into a wisp of light, leaving behind the knowledge it had gathered. Bartholomew smiled, the glimmer of cunning in his eyes, before returning to Marcus’s side to share what he’d learned.

 

[Marcus Aumont]

Marcus listened carefully as Bartholomew shared the subtle shifts within the court and the nobles’ growing inclination toward Espada’s influence. A slight, knowing smile curved on Marcus’s lips as he realized how close they were to securing control. The nobles, with their competing ambitions, had all but laid the groundwork for his plans.

“Thank you, Bartholomew,” Marcus said, his tone low, appreciating the mage’s keen political insight. With Valen approaching now, Marcus straightened, his demeanor settling into a confident calm.

As Valen updated him on the nobles’ latest positions, Marcus nodded, absorbing every detail. It was time to make his next move. He motioned for Valen to join him, making his way toward Lady Aris, who waited at the edge of the gathering, her curiosity sparked by Marcus’s approach.

“Lady Aris,” he greeted, bowing his head with a slight nod. “The evening unfolds as we had hoped, with support gathering steadily around you. The nobles recognize the strength and stability your leadership brings, especially with Espada as a trusted ally.”

Aris’s gaze sharpened with interest, listening as Marcus continued, carefully choosing his words to weave a vision of their united rule. “We have begun to solidify the path forward, planting seeds of integration that will not only safeguard El Gran but elevate it. With the city’s nobility behind you, we’re close to ensuring a smooth transition that brings lasting prosperity.”

He smiled, letting the weight of his words settle. “Now, the remaining steps are to reinforce our position among those still uncertain. With Espada’s support and your leadership, El Gran will gain an alliance of protection and strength—a beacon of what our union can achieve.”

Valen stood alongside them, subtly bolstering Aris’s position as he nodded in agreement. Together, they created an image of unbreakable unity, sending a clear message to anyone watching: Lady Aris was not merely a noble with a claim but the inevitable future, strengthened by Espada’s backing.

 

[Kingdom Of Espada]

Lady Aris tilted her head, her expression carefully measured as she regarded Marcus. The glint in her eyes betrayed a hint of intrigue, mingled with cautious ambition. She stepped closer, her voice low and deliberate.

“You paint a compelling vision, Lord Marcus. One that I find increasingly difficult to refute. The nobility here has always been fractured, their loyalties swayed by promises of power rather than unity. Espada offers something… different. A strength and stability that could elevate El Gran beyond the infighting that has plagued us for years.”

Her gaze shifted briefly to Valen, who gave her a subtle nod of encouragement, then returned to Marcus.

“Moving forward, we must act decisively but carefully. The remaining nobles need assurance that their positions and influence won’t be jeopardized under Espada’s banner. They’re prideful and protective of their power—it’s both their strength and their weakness. If you can show them how their ambitions align with our shared goals, they’ll follow.

“As for myself, I will begin laying the groundwork to solidify my claim. Quietly, of course. My focus will be on demonstrating that I am a stabilizing force for El Gran, one who can bridge the gap between tradition and this new alliance.”

Her lips curved into a confident smile. “And when the time comes, I trust Espada will ensure a seamless transition. Together, we will secure not only the throne but the future of this city.”

 

[Marcus Aumont]

As dawn approached, whispers of betrayal swept through the halls of El Gran. The King’s closest advisor, Lord Eryndor, had quietly suggested that the monarch’s failing health posed a threat to the city’s stability. His veiled suggestion of hastening the King’s demise reached the ears of the gathered nobles, sparking outrage among the court. Fearing for the King’s life and the reputation of their city, many nobles rushed to the royal chambers to pledge their loyalty and ensure his safety.

For Marcus, the chaos played perfectly into his hands. The splintering of the court left Lady Aris and her allies as the only coherent faction prepared to step into the power vacuum. When the nobles reconvened later in the day, it was Marcus who led the quiet, focused effort to organize a path forward.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Meeting


Inside a grand, secluded chamber, Marcus stood at the head of a polished oak table. Beside him was Lady Aris, resplendent in her confidence, flanked by a select group of her closest allies. The atmosphere was tense yet electric, as if the very air vibrated with the anticipation of change.

Marcus raised his hands slightly, calling for calm. “Friends,” he began smoothly, “today has shown us the fragility of this court. The suggestion that the King’s life be ended, no matter his condition, has fractured trust among the nobility. But it has also presented an undeniable truth: El Gran needs decisive leadership now more than ever.”

He glanced at Lady Aris, a faint smile gracing his lips. “Lady Aris has demonstrated her dedication to this city and its people, time and again. Her vision for El Gran is one of unity and prosperity. It is my belief, and the belief of Espada, that she is the leader El Gran needs to weather this uncertain time.”

One of the nobles, Lord Valen, leaned forward, his voice steady. “If we are to move forward with such a transition, it must be done quickly and with precision. The city cannot afford further division. We need the support of the people as much as the court.”

Marcus nodded. “Precisely. The announcement must come with a clear message of continuity and strength. The people must see Lady Aris not as a usurper but as a rightful and capable ruler. We will emphasize her connections to the throne, her ties to the nobility, and her unwavering commitment to El Gran’s prosperity. Espada will provide the support to ensure a seamless transition.”

Lady Aris stepped forward, her voice calm yet commanding. “This is not an easy decision, nor one I take lightly. But El Gran cannot wait for the King’s health to determine its future. I will take the throne, not for personal gain, but to preserve the city we all love. Together, with the strength of Espada and the wisdom of this council, we will secure El Gran’s future.”

The room was silent for a moment, the weight of her words settling over them.

Marcus broke the silence, his tone firm. “There is much to prepare. Messages must be sent to the remaining undecided nobles, the people must be addressed, and the court’s structure reinforced under Lady Aris’s rule. This is the moment where El Gran steps into a new era. Let us ensure it does so with strength and purpose.”

The nobles exchanged looks, one by one nodding their agreement. The pieces were falling into place. Lady Aris would rise as Queen, and with her ascent, Espada’s foothold in El Gran would be unshakable.

 

[Kingdom Of Espada]

The grand hall of El Gran was filled with nobles, citizens, and soldiers, all gathered in tense anticipation. The marble floors gleamed under the golden light of countless chandeliers, and the banners of El Gran hung proudly, soon to be joined by the sigil of Espada. At the center of the raised dais stood Lady Aris, now adorned in regal attire befitting her new station, her presence commanding yet approachable.

As the crowd quieted, she stepped forward, her voice carrying through the chamber with practiced grace.

“People of El Gran,” she began, “today marks the beginning of a new era for our beloved city. For too long, we have stood divided, our strength diminished by discord. But now, we move forward together, united under a vision of prosperity and stability that will secure our place as one of the great powers of this realm.”

She gestured to Marcus, who stood beside her, his imposing figure radiating quiet authority. “It is with great purpose and hope that I announce our vassalship under the banner of Espada. Lord Marcus, leader of Espada, has extended his hand in friendship, offering us not only protection but also the opportunity to thrive as part of a greater whole. This is not submission but partnership—a bond forged in mutual respect and shared goals.”

The murmurs of the crowd were mixed, curiosity and hesitation rippling through the assembly. Lady Aris continued, her tone steady and reassuring.

“Under this alliance, El Gran will retain its customs and values. Our culture will remain intact, our traditions honored. Espada does not seek to erase who we are but to strengthen us. Together, we will rebuild what has been fractured, ensuring that every citizen of El Gran feels the benefit of this new chapter. Trade, security, and growth will flourish under this partnership.”

She stepped closer to the edge of the dais, her gaze sweeping the room. “I know change can be difficult, and I understand the uncertainty that comes with it. But I promise you this: I will lead with the same dedication and love I have always held for El Gran. With Espada’s guidance and strength, we will achieve greatness not as subjects, but as partners in an empire that values unity and progress.”

Turning slightly, she extended a hand toward Marcus. “And now, I present to you Lord Marcus of Espada, a leader whose vision and wisdom have brought us to this moment. Together, we will guide El Gran into a future of unparalleled prosperity.”

Marcus stepped forward, offering a deep bow to Lady Aris and then addressing the assembly. “People of El Gran, this alliance is the beginning of something extraordinary. Lady Aris is a leader of immense wisdom and strength, and it is my honor to stand beside her as we forge a future of unity and prosperity. Espada does not conquer to destroy—it conquers to build, to unify, and to ensure the survival and success of its people.”

The crowd’s tension softened, replaced by a hesitant but growing sense of hope. The symbolic unity of Marcus and Lady Aris, combined with the promise of progress, began to settle the doubts lingering in the minds of the people. This was the start of a new chapter, one where El Gran would stand proudly under the banner of Espada.