#grantkae

Art by Khary Randolph, Emilio Lopez, & Anthony Washington

Passages run beneath the castle, where water from the oasis flows through. That water is brought up into fountains and pools across the castle through pipes. Along with drinking, bathing and swimming, the water is also used for the plants and small gardens scattered across the palace. I've heard some of these plants can't be found anywhere, and that they're descended from the plants of a jungle. A jungle that used to be in Mipedian territory, but I can't be sure.

Grantkae: Ah, that would be Bylkian. Growing up, we were nearly inseparable. Bylk was always an outstanding royal. Loved to pull small pranks on the other young royals, or even the adults. Occasionally, I'd help him. Mudeenu was our favorite to toy with for his reactions... What made us good friends? Bylkian and I always felt a tad untraditional, compared to our peers. But he still believed in the Mipedim ways, even when he began dabbling in conjuring. It never hindered our friendship, although I have to wonder where exactly his allegiances lie these days, with the path he's taken.

Grantkae: Yes, some of the other generals and I would meet there during the Invasion. We would discuss battle plans, and things you humans would find boring. Since the war is over and we no longer gather there, the Quarters were not far from the Pouril Forest. I'm not sure I could find it again, the route was complicated. But, all that forest was pleasant, except for Yokkis... I'm gonna miss Toborn, too.

Grantkae: Most of us Mipedians who are born into royal families wind up in the army. It's either that or something in politics. And politics in Mipedim are a shady, sluggish affair I want no part of.

Grantkae: I'm as glad as everyone for his return, but I question why the king needed to go into exile in the first place... Yes, I know it's tradition but what made that tradition?