act30side

As it stands, I still do not endorse some of Sir Enciodes's overly risky decisions.

Despite all the growth that they have brought to Kjerag...

What <i>has</i> Enciodes been up to these past three years?

He's been making smaller moves on the mineral export issue. Could this Victorian business be another one of his disastrous schemes?

...I cannot say.

You cannot say?

I <b>cannot</b> say, Sir Arctosz.

Whatever Sir Enciodes is plotting behind our backs, it will all be in the manner that he sees most fit. I and the Vine-Bead Court alike would not be familiar with his line of thought.

Sometimes, knowing too much is not a good thing.

You mean to say...

I'm just stating the facts, nothing more.

The ceremony must go off without a hitch. For now, we'll make our preparations. Whatever we can do, as best as we can.

I understand.

You need not be so worried.

Whatever may come...

Kjeragandr will protect Her people.

What is on your mind, Saintess?

I was pondering what Arctosz said, about Kjeragandr's statue...

I hope the ceremony goes smoothly.

It will.

'Kjeragandr will protect Her people', no?

I still hope we won't need to bother Her this time.

You wish for Her to simply watch?

Kjerag must learn to face risks and challenges.

A child can't spend its whole life in its mother's arms, Kjarr.

...That much is true.

Ah, yet another chat has turned rather morose.

Speaking of the statue of Kjeragandr, I've half a mind to give that Arctosz a slap.

Why?

He got that big statue's face out of some ancient records, correct? The one it's got right now.

Did he really have to say 'Kjeragandr's appearance is preserved in these books! You are not to deviate from them!'? Who says my...?

*cough* Who says Kjeragandr's face is so wide?

Definitely deserves a slap or two!

Saintess?

Enya?

Why'd you turn so quiet?

No, you're just teasing me again. Surely.

Could I...? No, could Kjeragandr... actually have such a wide face?

In two days, the Saintess will perform the early morning blessing, in celebration of the completion of Kjeragandr's statue.

Here is your invitation, My Lord.

Ah, Sir Enciodes, haha, that is how Kjerag's folk address you, yes?

You are far too kind. We had come specifically for this purpose, and I would not have dared to trouble you for a special invitation.

Worry not, my boys and I will arrive on time, all to celebrate the completion of our statue of Kjeragandr... O Blessed Kjeragandr!

...You seem to have adapted well to life in Kjerag.

Kjerag's scenery is a beauty, her dishes unique, and her people most lively. What's not to like?

Not for nothing does Her Grace so often praise Kjerag's natural bounties. I dare say it's lived up to its reputation!

...Her Grace flatters us.

To have esteemed guests from afar praise us in such a way is an honor for Kjerag and the Silverash clan both.

No need to be modest, Sir Enciodes.

Though we came here to congratulate you on the completion of the statue, I can say that I've been thoroughly captivated by Kjerag's charms during my stay.

I hope that Her Grace, magnanimous as she is, will allow me to extend my pleasurable stay in Kjerag after the ceremony.

Sir Enciodes, surely you'll permit me to do some sightseeing, yes?

...But of course.

Considering that My Lord is eager to gain a deeper understanding of Kjerag, I see no reason to refuse.

Though I would note that in this season, Kjerag's winds are bitterly cold, and many unseen dangers lurk atop the mountains.

You and your guards will need to bundle up warmly. I would also request that you steer clear of certain dangerous areas during your tour, so as to avoid blizzards and frostbite.

Truly a most considerate warning!

Kjerag really is a bit too chilly, but don't you worry, Sir Enciodes. That's hardly a problem for us. A thick coat should do the trick.

Of course, speaking personally, I prefer to relax in a warm cabin with a roaring fireplace to traipsing about a snowy wonderland atop some mountain. With some fondue afterwards.

Oh, that flavor, mmm!

I am relieved to hear you say that, My Lord.

Relieved? Oh, heavens no, I wouldn't go that far.

I'm afraid you can't feel too relieved, Sir Enciodes. You should keep your wits about you.

Please, elaborate.

Oh, your relationship with Her Grace notwithstanding, I'm afraid there are many things that I'm not at ease to speak about.

Our friend so kind to those of lower station, with such affection for Kjerag... but is this affection returned by the worthy? Patience certainly has its limits.

And if our cooperation within Kjerag continues along a rough path, well, should Her Grace decide her patience has reached an end...

I'm sure we would both rather not let things come to that, Sir Enciodes.

I understand your meaning, My Lord.

As for that 'cooperation', I will give you my response within the next few days. I will not keep Her Grace waiting too long.

Alright...

I'm looking forward to hearing some good news from you, then.

You'll be the first to know.

Having handed over the invitation, I have no further need to trouble you, My Lord.

I look forward to seeing you at the ceremony in two days.

That Kjerag fellow didn't even offer a 'hello' as he passed. What a stuck-up prick!

It's just a show he's put on for me.

A show? You men of learning, spending your days playing your games...

Harold, I can tell you've been in a bad mood these past few days. Is he giving you trouble?

Perish the thought! Sure, the lad's got some skills, but nothing to lose sleep over.

Alright, enough of that. No use trying to hide from what's coming, so let's go do what must be done!

Good to hear that you know what you're doing.

If that's all, then I best hurry off first. *hic* I'm counting on you to handle those fancy nobs, Harold!

Wait, just a moment there, did you lot go drinking without me again?

Just one moment! Set the drink aside, did you finish the fondue I was only halfway done with?

Zzz... *snore*...

(Kjerag) Grüezi... Ha det...

Zzz... Zzz...

Mamochka...

Don't worry... Zzz... I can do it...

*unintelligible Kjerag*

*snore*... Zzz...

Whoa!

Who's there?! Who has the guts to ambush me—!

...Oh.

How long have I been asleep...?

Ugh... My butt hurts. This ride's real bumpy, feels like my whole body is shaking apart.

Mmm—hah. That's much comfier.

The girl sits upright, picking up the book she was using the pass the time, which had rolled under the chair at some point, and stuffing it into her bag.

She does a big stretch, spotting something out the carriage window.