#lalashell

MODEL: Velvet Carmine

Pioneering the first official alteration in PiB Catalogue history, makes her mark in haute couture!

Putting a Hingan twist to the Ryoqor Terteh-inspired Blessing of Moonlit Snow, the intricate diamond patterns and snowflake embellishments have been superseded by a different form of imagery popular in Far Eastern symbolism.

Amidst the cascading silken sea of obsidian black and ruby red blooms the alluring-yet-deadly flowers of the higanbana, or Spider Lily; Nightshade, and Lily of the Valley. This careful arrangement of plants weave together the name of this kimono: "静寂の中の優雅さ", which translates to "Elegance in Silence" in the Hingan language.

Accented with gilded trim, gloves of dark velvet, and brought together with a lotus flower comb and spider lily obi, this ensemble was created to better suit the summer and autumn seasons in contrast to the wintry undertones of its predecessor. The flowers billowing from this kimono belies a clever message: that even if flowers wither and fade, heralding the end of all things, the deceit brought by death... belies its hidden beauty.

With every new release of crafting attire, the Weaver’s especially has always stood out to be among the more dapper side of things. 

The Higuri Regalia’s rendition of this artifact armor is no exception.  Paying homage to previous designs, the Thandha Couturier’s attire takes to the scene with its own wintry flair!

The diamond-shaped needle and spinning wheel take after another Mrga who is the patron saint of weaving: Mrkanda.  The adorable Yukinko Snowflake and diamond embroideries are not just for show.  When needled through, the fibres interact with the Himvat Cloth to create an iridescent thread without compromising it overmuch.  With enough attunement to the tool, the Weaver can utilize this innate feature at will.

A clear sky welcomes the arrival of dawn as the sun rises upon the greater region of Garlemald. The blustery arctic winds of northern Ilsabard are reduced to a mere zephyr, and its surviving denizens prepare to face what challenges may await them.

Within the fringes of Camp Broken Glass, three individuals stood vigil: each garbed in attire suited for the cold, but all bearing the symbol of a mythril blue shield flanked by angelic wings. This was the insignia of the Diamond Sultan's personal retinue of combat-ready maidservants - Lord Thiji's Angels.

Himmeya Twelvefist, Kaori Hanabira, and Swoztu Wuotwyrstwyn stood guard as they laid eyes upon a black-robed figure approaching from the Eblan Rime. The sound of beating wings soon followed, and they would turn their gazes upward to behold a curvaceous Duskwight female, gowned in the likeness of the Creator, trailed by a host of tiny magitek bits. Once within several yalms, the woman touched down upon the frosted earth, striding stately towards the Angels.

"Good Morning, Angels," she began.

"Good Morning, Princess Telphie," the Angels answered. The Magitek Maestra chuckled and waved her hand dismissively.

"Be at ease. I bring grand tidings, which I will explain later. For now, it is time we were off home."

"So soon, Princess?" Himmeya interjected with an arched brow. "Is our tour here finally over, then?" The cloaked figure gave a bow to Telphie before turning toward the three.

"My Ladies, if I may - Mamai's Vigil will be arriving shortly to receive you, during which it will send you all to Radz-at-Han. Our Lord Sultan has deemed our duties here fulfilled," the hooded Au Ra stated.

"With the situation in Garlemald well taken care of, and the newly-established trade agreement with Radz-at-Han, it is safe to say that this nation is well on its way to obtaining autonomy once more," Telphie followed, "and with the Ilsabard Contingent close by, our involvement grows less founded. Though I had served this nation for a time, I am satisfied in the work we have done to help these people build back better. And lest we forget, Miss Youmei and House Kyria has lent us their support as well, granting us a formidable ally in the Near East. She will be joining us in Radz-at-Han as well, further strengthening our bond!"

Swoztu and Kaori heaved sighs of relief as Himmeya gave a triumphant yell, eager to return to her fellow Angels - or perhaps eager to try out the spicy Thavnairian fare.

"I won't miss the cold, but it's small wonder Lord Thiji enjoys it so much," Swoztu commented as they accompanied Telphie back towards camp.

"And what of our hooded friend?" Kaori asked. "Will she not be joining us?"

"I am humbled by your offer, Lady Kaori," the mysterious Au Ra said, her head lowered, "but I must return to my own matters. Unfortunately, that is all I can say for now, but know that you've allies in the shadows..."

Not wont to pry further, Kaori simply gave a shrug and waved farewell to the mysterious individual, and soon they would part with Garlemald at long last...

The following evening, the streets of Radz-at-Han were abuzz, from Alzadaal's Peace to the High Crucible. A joyous occasion had befallen the city, and a grand feast was being held at Mehryde's Meyhane. The place was filled to capacity as the citizenry and visitors alike reveled. At one of the corner tables, a team of Radiants were either splayed across the floor or struggling to remain upright as a trio of Lalafellin women laughed haughtily. This trio was none other than Sesena and her sisters, Sosona and Susuna.

"Goodness, dear sister, what's that put us on now?" spoke Sesena.

"Five! And we're barely getting started! Another round, if you please!" Susuna proudly declared. "And, er, some water for our Radiants!"

At the Guildship Hunt Board posted toward the entrance, Sarielle Emeraude - the Regalia's Chirurgeon - was inspecting the daily and weekly marks in preparation for a hunt. Meriri Meri approached and offered her a drink.

"Lassie Sarielle!" the Plainsfolk chimed. "Ye can worry about the huntin' later! It's a time for celebratin', after all!"

"I know, I know, Miss Meriri," the smaragdine Elezen replied. "I was only passing the time so as to assist where needed - and it appears Miss Sesena and them have already drunk the third team of Radiants under the table. If you'll excuse me."

"Och! They're a bunch o' lightweights anyway!" Meriri retorted, heading back towards her table.

Upon the stage where the traditional Thavnairian dance would be performed were Veeveena and Veeveera, performing their own rendition of the Kriegstanz, but with the power of wind infused in their chakrams. They gave quite the show, captivating the audience with their frenetic movements mixed with wild gesticulations which culminated in a small cyclone that filled the stage. And - just like something one would see out of a magic show - a silhouette emerged from the gust: a slender Viera sporting garb never-before-seen on Etheirys. Accented with a large golden Usekh, this off-the-shoulder dress was form-fitting, with lavender-violet hues, and trailing along the skirt's end were numerous tendril-like appendages which glowed a scintillating blue, and billowed lightly even in the calm winds which blew from the balcony. Her white-blue tresses and face were obscured by a veil of similar color, with numerous tendrils that each ended with a gilded gradient.

She took one, two, three, four paces forward before flipping the veil with just enough force so as to reveal herself: the Regalia's Prime Model, Isja "Coldgaze" Kaltablik. Striding from behind her was another familiar face: the Diamond Sultan in his signature garb. Everyone gasped in awe as those who were privy to the Higuri Regalia's practices knew full well what this entailed.

"Th-That robe...! Mistress Isja...!" spoke a bystander.

"The Diamond Sultan, too...! Could this be...?!" gasped an Arkasodara.

As everyone deliberated in hushed whispers and gathered around the posing Veena, the "V" Twins (Veeveena & Veeveera) escorted their lord and master backstage, though they would be met with some light resistance as eager fashion fans clamored to speak with the merchant-lord himself.

"Just a moment, everyone. Our Lord Sultan will be with you shortly," Veera assured. Once they were out of sight, the two Dunesfolk maidens would greet him with a bow, to which he would give one in return.

"We are grateful that you went out of your way to do this... Prince Horu," Veeveena whispered. The Lalafell garbed in the shimmering icy sherwani was, in fact, not the Diamond Sultan, but his twin brother - whom bore striking similarities to Thiji, but the main distinction being the position of their multicolored orbs.

"It's the least I could do to help keep up appearances, Miss Veeveera," Horu replied with a smile. "This is a monumental occasion for all of Thavnair. The Satrap's sister is returned to us, and no doubt my brother has a lot of thoughts to put to paper as we are now poised to proceed with the next phase."

"If I may be so bold, Prince Horu," Veera interjected, "you truly did not have to do this. We Angels could've definitely held our own in your stead - especially with Princess Telphie among us."

"I understand, Miss Veeveera," Horu began, "but a venerable storm of events has befallen the Near East in recent moons, and needless to say that it has given House Higuri - among others - quite a stir. After seeing everyone being called to action, I was compelled to do so as well. I could not stand idle any longer whilst my brother dearest and our allies were hard at work to maintain stability at home and abroad. And now, on this night of nights, the people of Radz-at-Han will know that Thiji Higuri himself graced the celebratory feast, and gave the fashion faithful the long-awaited premonition of our coming clothing line."

"Spoken like a true leader, My Prince," Veeveera said with a grin. "Then let us not keep them waiting."

They would soon return to the festivities, and the revelry would move on well into the late bells of the night. Meanwhile, within the confines of his chambers was the actual Diamond Sultan, focused on fulfilling his new tradition of pre-release portents.

And, within the waking hours of the following morn, his newest letter would at last be disseminated to the public...

“Honorable friends, associates, and allies of the Regalia,

I  pray that this message finds you all well.  As for myself, it is with great pride that I voice my own tidings of good health. The continual stability of the realm and its regions is once again a testament to the strength and resolve of the countless protectors of Etheirys.

But, as always, this only affirms my statement that the realm continues to maintain its status quo of perennial incursions, supernatural uprisings, and all-around buffoonery.  The Power in Beauty Catalogue continues maintaining its absolute hold of the fashion scene with the release of the Hyogan Gallery, but it is in no small part due to you all who have made this a reality - from our chosen models, to our collaborators, to the spreading of the good fashion word.  It is absolutely astounding that we of the Regalia have provided a means of form and function for citizenry and adventurers alike.  And while I may shower you all with praise for bells on end, the true reason for this missive’s creation is of even greater magnitude than the previous.

Firstly, I have taken an apprentice under my wing. Some of you may know her, and others who do not will surely come to know of her in due time. She is Izayoi T. Keer, a seasoned courier whose eye and passion for haute couture have surpassed her peers. Seeking to better herself in the field of aesthetics, she - with the Sisters' blessing - took it upon herself to serve under me as my Mythrite (or Diamond) Apprentice. With this knowledge, you may all be pleased to know that the time will one day come where the Higuri Regalia will open its own guild or school to train other aspiring fashion designers. With the Sisters' blessing, they may acquire the skills and talent necessary to create their own label. Izayoi may be the first to study under me, but knowing how fate operates in this realm, she will definitely not be the last in search of aesthetic tutelage.

Secondly, it is with a heart once heavied by concern - now relieved of this burden - that I inform you all that - against all odds - our beloved Satrap - Lord Vrtra of the First Brood - has returned home with his sister, Lady Azdaja.

Though many are worthy of gratitude: to Ser Dione Averre (@lizardywizard) and all of White Wings - it has been a most grueling journey, and I know it was taxing for you and yours. I have long hung up my adventuring ways, but that does not stop me from fighting for the home my family and I have moiled to create. But I know that you all were at the forefront of the operation to liberate Lady Azdaja with the other brave souls who dared to brave the darkness of the Void. This mission was successful twofold: first, with the vanquishment of the Archfiends and the malign force which threatened to breach the sanctity of the Source, our peace has been assured as the Voidsent will now encroach in lesser frequency. Second, with Lady Azdaja's ensured survival, this means that half of the First Brood is alive and well alongside Lord Hraesvelgr and Lady Tiamat - though it cost Lord Vrtra one of his eyes to grant his sister a corporeal form.

This means a great deal to not only the Regalia and House Higuri, but to all children of Thavnair. I feel I speak for us all when I say that we owe much to Midgardsormr's progeny for founding and fostering such a unique culture that can now be fully shared with the rest of the realm. Without them, Radz-at-Han would more than likely never have existed. And when I heard the First Brood's cries ringing across the heavens... I shed a most genuine tear of joy knowing that another great wyrm perseveres (though "great" may be a subjective term for some). Not since the establishment of the Regalia's empire have I felt such joy, and now we can show Midgardsormr's daughter the beauty of the land her brother helped create. So, from the bottom of my heart, you have earned a Sultan's gratitude. To you, and the other champions who answered the call: the Higuri Regalia thanks you.

Moving on to less touching matters, the third and perhaps equally important of tidings: the announcement of the Regalia's upcoming line. To those whom recall: one of our previous editions was known as the Blessed Wardrobe, which was made in homage to the Light-infused beings of the First: the Lightwardens. As an antithesis to this - and as a sort of way of remembering all that has transpired - this next clothing line will be dedicated to those Dark-wreathed beings of the Thirteenth shard - the Void. But not just any rank-and-file Voidsent - we will be focusing primarily on the nobility within their hierarchy as established by Eorzean scholars, thus shortening the scope (because let's be real: creating outfits for every conceivable type of Voidsent would see me well past my prime). As a means of providing backstory and inspiration behind this, those who are unaware of Radz-at-Han's nascency should know that the city-state was actually founded atop a void fissure - the selfsame fissure which is now destroyed thanks to a certain Archfiend of Fire. And it is because of this knowledge I will be blending our designs through a unique fusion of Voidal and Near Eastern aesthetic - I believe a better term coined by adventurers is "Gothic". At the time of this letter's dissemination, my latest project is at forty percent completion, and I aim to bring it to light (pun not intended) by the commencement of the EBL's next season.

Lastly, and this may come off as a surprise to some as my business prides itself on generosity: in light of these auspicious events, I have taken the liberty of providing you all with a teaser of what to expect when this clothing line is brought to fruition. Enclosed within is a "sample" photo of one of the many outfits that will be showcased in this upcoming edition to the PiB Catalogue. As previously stated, expect its grand unveiling by the coming of spring - for all, and Etheirys at large, will be reminded why my empire’s credo is ‘Where There is  Power in Beauty.’”

Sincerely,

Thiji Sor Higuri, Diamond Sultan of the Higuri Regalia

The evening had arrived in Radz-at-Han.  Even when the sun had long ended its vigil, the city was still lively, with peddlers burning the midnight oil in the Balshahn Bazaar; patrons and partygoers living it up in Mehryde’s Meyhane, and the ever-diligent alchemists toiling away in the High Crucible.  Adventurers, too, were assisting the local populace in getting the funds disseminated for the Khalzahl Foundation, alleviating some of the burden from the Radiant Host.  Many and more were contributing to Radz-at-Han’s prosperity, and even Thiji was of no exception.

Despite Susuna’s words of treating himself, he could not help but hold fast to the Regalia’s tenant of generosity.  With the gold he had obtained from the Regalia treasury, he would take a short detour to the Hall of the Radiant Host.  Placing the gold within a small pouch made from his Himvat silk, he tossed it to one of the strapping Auri guards posted outside of the office entrance.  He gave them a grin and a slight bow of his head before turning to walk away, only for a voice to echo through the halls…

“My Padishah,” spoke the guard in a low tone.  Thiji turned back around to notice the pouch being returned to him; his quick reflexes – honed from years of adventuring – allowing him to easily catch it in his right palm.  "Ever does the Host appreciate your charity, my lord, but we have been given firm orders to reject any alms you deign to provide us over the course of the sennight."

Thiji arched an inquisitive brow, curious as to whom would issue such a decree.  The other guardsman would then speak...

"In case you were wondering, the ones who gave the order were your sire and siress."

The Diamond Sultan scoffed, thinking he could get away with doing one nice thing for the day.  They truly intended for him to relax and enjoy himself if his family was going to such lengths.  He would shake the thought from his head and wave farewell to the guards, who saluted him in return.

With his detour left moot, Thiji would return to the Main Branch Headquarters, where he would then be met with a large host of men and maidservants who welcomed him with a bow.

"Welcome home, Sultan," they all greeted in unison.  The head maid among them was Celuwen, a Wildwood Elezen and cousin of the Diamond Sultan. She greeted him with a smile and gestured to the inner sanctum.

"Dinner will be served shortly," she said in a soft tone.  "We will take you to your chambers to prepare your leisure attire."

Thiji would nod his head and make his way inside, wherein he was escorted by the Elezen majordomo.  Within his chambers he would enjoy an evening bubble bath, which would soon be followed by the drying of his wintry tresses and a manicure.  After a half-bell of freshening up, the Diamond Sultan would emerge from his chambers in his seldom-worn leisure attire, which consisted of an hakama, a veiled turban, Thavnairian sarouel, and babouches.  He also sported a blue tulip corsage on his left wrist, and was adorned with jewelry  on his ears, ring fingers, neck, and forearms - all fashioned in the likeness of a certain Lady of Bliss.

The reasoning behind him being in such loose garb did not miss the mind of the Diamond Sultan, but he was no less famished for it, and would concern himself with such answers later.  Though “later” would translate to “very soon” as he would finally arrive at the dining hall...

As the double doors opened before him, Thiji would be welcomed by the luxurious sight of a bevy of maidservants - all garbed in the Blissful Lehenga which he created some summers ago, all carrying bowls of tangy rolanberries, delectable lassi, and numerous appetizers and desserts one could only find in the Near East.  Chandeliers of diamond and silver lined the ceiling, and at the center - where the banquet table would usually be placed - was a divan of mythril blue and white.  It was obvious as for whom that was reserved.

As Thiji would cross the threshold, he would hear a woman’s voice coming from the far end...

“Ahh, My Sultan!  At last, the dinner bell is come, and you are long overdue for a cossetting of blissful proportions!”

He recognized the voice in an instant, and its source would make itself known as the maidservants parted for her to pass.  In a forest green-and-gold lehenga, complimented with a shimmering sari of matching colors, a grinning Angel would appear.  He would behold his dear Apsara of Gluttony, Lilina Lina, the youngest sister of Luluma and Lelena.

“I pray that you are ready, my lord, for a grand feast of wonders and words await you!  Sit upon the throne you so rightfully deserve, and join us...”

Lilina’s grandiose entrance intrigued Thiji, and he would humor her by approaching the divan and rested comfortably on his side.  Once in place, Lilina would snap her fingers, and two maidservants rushed over to remove Thiji’s babouches in order to massage his feet, whilst a third would approach with a bowl of the finest rolanberries, one being fed to the Diamond Sultan as he relaxed in his seat.  Lilina would then chuckle as she poured a glass of Winter Lassi for her master...

“Good.  You are already enjoying yourself!” Lilina began.  “As you should, for the deeds you have done are worthy of all the grandeur and praise that would make the Warriors of Light bashful!”

She would walk over and present the glass to Thiji, who would graciously take it in hand as he was continuing to be fed rolanberries, dipped in a rich amra yoghurt.  Lilina would then pace around Thiji, happily sipping away at a glass of “Happiness Juice” - no doubt imported from their new Lopporit friends.

“Through the many years I have served you with unwavering loyalty, my lord, I have ever been curious - hungry - to learn as much as I could about the realm outside of Radz-at-Han; outside of Thavnair; outside the Bounty.  And how wide-eyed I was to finally join you in Eorzea, where I would have front-row seats on witnessing your greatness!  The knowledge I’ve gained; the sights I have seen; the battles we have fought and won... I wanted more and more, ever desirous to satiate my thirst for knowledge!  It is why I have been given the honored title of Gluttony’s Apsara, no?”

Thiji furrowed his brow; the Hyuran maidservant feeding him the rolanberries would back away, and another would take her place, now presenting him with a plate of naan.  As she broke off pieces of the leavened bread, she would dip them in a tangy Tzatziki sauce and presented them to Thiji, who accepted them with a pleased countenance.

“And at the height of my discoveries, you helped pique my curiosity ever skyward by teaching me the ways of the Summoner, and gifting me with the knowledge to become a Master of Revelry!  That was, without a doubt, the greatest satisfaction, and one I hold so near and dear to my heart... But then there is the matter of you, My Sultan.  You, who have mastered both virtue and sin alike!  You cling so hard to one side, yet you shun the other!  Why, my beautiful lord, do you reject your impulses?  The very thing that makes us who we are?  You toil so arduously to satisfy the needs of others, at the expense of satisfying yourself!  There is no shame in sinning, My Sultan - but I need not remind you of this!”

With another snap of her fingers, the naan-providing maidservant bowed her head and retreated, replaced by several more, presenting various Near Eastern dishes and desserts.  Thiji’s eyes went wide in astonishment as the maidservants began feeding him one bite at a time, his mind registering the myriad flavors and textures as Lilina gave a satisfied sigh.

“Would you not consider every flavor, for instance, as a delectable maiden whom fawns over you?  They dance to the beat of their own unique drum, each taste attempting to win you over - to gain and garner your most blessed favor!  You sell yourself short, my lord, for you are more desirable than you realize!  But I shall speak plainly: it is perfectly okay to sin!  We, your most loyal Angels, have been granted a sin or virtue which is strongest in us, after all!  And with my ever-wanting thirst for knowledge, I was dubbed as the Apsara of Gluttony!  And you, My Sultan, should learn to indulge a little more.  You deserve a nice little splurge; a long, dream-filled slumber; a feast fit for an emperor... and a true harem, if I would be so bold.  Why have one Sultana... when you could have five?  For Gluttony is cousin to Greed and Lust, and I embrace this fact with open arms... So why not you?  My sisters, my cousins, and all my fellow Angels speak ever, so highly about you and your escapades!  I cannot tell you how giddy we were to hear that you were making moves on the Madame of the Sultan’s Gambit - despite being business partners!  And then there is the lovely prospect of the masseuse she sent - a Miss Rosary, was it?  Such wonderful gems from Thanalan, if I do say so myself!  To have both wrapped around your gelid finger would surely cause much turmoil amongst the nobility...”

She giggled and took another sip of her Happiness Juice as Thiji continued eating, enjoying every morsel that entered his mouth, sighing in content with each bite.  He took the moment to reflect on his moments with the two women Lilina had mentioned...

“Oh I know, My Sultan Dearest, I know...” cooed Lilina ever, so sweetly, “You do not abuse your powers, which is a trait most admirable.  But even you should entertain your vices, for such treasures and pleasures can and would be yours, if you would but seize it as you have seized the realm of high fashion numerous times over!”

Thiji took a brief moment from his feast to drink from his glass – the crisp and cool taste of the ice crystals which danced in his mouth.  He savored it for a moment before exhaling, a misty cloud forming from his breath.  Lilina giggled as she stepped forward, kneeling before the Diamond Sultan with a smirk.

“In your quest to lord over all that is haute couture, perhaps it did not occur to you that this would also be a form of Gluttony in its own right…?”

The ice blue lord would take another sip of his Winter Lassi, but would freeze in a light gasp, the liquid mere ilms from touching his lips.  His eyes shot wide from the realization, having been so ensconced with his passion - his ambition - that, all this time, he was simply another victim.  The irony was sweet.  Decadent, even.  So much so that Lilina let out an airy laugh that one would hear from a girl with a princess complex, another pair of manservants switching out her depleted glass of Happiness Juice for a full glass of "Carrot Cake" Lassi - a secret recipe shared by one of the Pakshee's own head courtesans.

"The shock you bear upon your flawless features says it all, My Sultan!  But it is nothing of which to be ashamed!  Whether it be intentional or no, all are subject to sin at some point!  One cannot rule without a drive - an ambition.  You, of course, are no stranger to this - he, who stands unfettered from the sins that would corrupt him, yet holds fast to virtue that he misses out on the finer things in life - the finer things we’ve provided to the people of Etheirys!  Though you may turn heads were you to embrace a more daring side, none would indict you for wanting to enjoy life just a tad more!  After all... you are feasting like the Sultan you have become!  And why stop there?  Thus do I bid you, My Sultan: give the order to your ever-waiting subjects, duty-bound to fulfill you every whim!”

A simple request he would easily oblige.  Thiji would set his glass down on a saucer presented by one of the maidservants, and would bring his hands together twice.  In a near instant, the room was filled with ribbons of vivid colors, and the familiar sounds of Near Eastern strings and drums began to ring throughout the dining hall.  The Diamond Sultan would be welcomed by the scenery of many of his Hannish maidservants in clothing of his own make, performing a traditional Kreigstanz, with alluring undulations mixed in to please their lord and master.

Lilina laughed with joy as the revelries would persist through the evening bells; much feasting, dancing, and the clatter of gold and jewelry - all in honor of their beloved Diamond Sultan.  It was a party of such excess pleasures that would have brought a certain city-state in a different shard to shame - and Thiji was enjoying every second of it.  Though sadly, all good things must come to an end, and as the jubilant feast would die down, midnight would fall upon the Bounty, and Thiji would be fast asleep in his divan, a satisfied smile upon his face.  The bountiful banquet in which he indulged exhausted him, but he would no doubt feel utter fulfillment when next he rose.  Lilina quietly ordered the entourage to clear and clean the dining hall as she removed her Shawl of Gluttony and placed it atop Thiji’s reclined form, granting him a modicum of warmth as he slept.

“For opening the door and letting in your indulgences, you’ve earned - nay - you deserve this, My Sultan...” she whispered softly into his ear.  “As you always say: pleasant and pleasurable dreams...”

The afternoon would soon come to an end; the sun had begun to make its descent once more into the eastern reaches of the heavens, providing most exquisite scenery of vermillion skies above the Bounty.  The Diamond Sultan had decided to enjoy a stroll outside of the Main Branch Headquarters. The bustle in the streets was beginning to die down as merchants began packing up their wares for the eve. Those who recognized Lord Thiji as he made his leisurely walk would smile and bow in respect as he passed by. His only response would be a curt nod and a dismissive wave of his hand, returning them to their own matters.

Eventually his trek would take him outside of the city, to the Wakeful Torana - the great bridge which connected the plateau on which stood the colorful commercial hub. Approaching the gates, the sight of another Angel would come into view.  She stood at attention, like a sentinel, a Thavnairian partisan clutched in her right hand.  Garbed in the uniform of the Aldenard Branch, she gave Thiji a salute as he came within six fulms, which he would return one in response.

“Salaam, and good evening, My Sultan,” greeted the Angel.  “Luluma Luma, Apsara of Diligence, reporting. May I escort you in your stroll?”

The Diamond Sultan silently nodded, accepting her offer before setting off into the mainland.  Theirs would be a quiet, uneventful walk down the bridge, which would afford them the ideal window for conversation.  Once they were outside of earshot from the Radiant Host, Luluma would heave a content sigh before she would speak…

“You’ve come far, My Sultan.  We all have. I still remember vividly our years in the Deep Sagolii, training in Cape Deadwind to combat the deadly predators that would undoubtedly harry us as we carved our own little piece of Radz-at-Han in the sea of sand.  I may have been harsh on you at times, but you were wise far beyond your years; you knew that such hardships would come naturally, what with being in the desert for so long.  Though I could do little to help you with matters of the heart… I did all I could to aid in the matters of the martial to compensate.  And I could not have been any prouder to have been your tutor.  The many battles you have witnessed and learned from began to shine through when Valide Sultan visited Gyr Abania…”

Luluma was referring to the Angels’ Gauntlet, a brief event of combat and cultivation which occurred in the sacred shrine of Hidden Tear, nestled in the Peaks.  It was during this series of duels that Thiji would discover the manifestation of his Echo: Cryokinesis.  The glory of combat catalyzed the latent aether within the Diamond Sultan which would set off a chain of events that would culminate with his ice-aspected ascension. 

“You were staring down primals and all sorts of deadly fiends in the face for so long that you’ve achieved martial perfection long before even I was at the threshold.  I wanted to try and keep up with you, for how could I call myself a master when I was being outclassed by malms?”

The two would then stop and turn back towards the city, beholding the twin matanga edifices that loomed over the entrance.  Luluma would then grin widely as a solitary tear of joy fell across her cheeks.

“But that was when it hit me: you were already advancing by leaps and bounds because of all we had faced together.  Seeing you dance around the battlefield with unparalleled grace and strength always left me speechless… I swore I was falling in love, hehe… and even long after you hung up the mantle of adventurer, you maintained your prowess through constant training; honing your abilities alone and with us in secret. That you still practice with your Angels – with me, especially – brings me no small amount of joy and honor, for there is so much for me to learn just from your combat acumen.  You’re a merchant-lord; a fashion guru; a philanthropist; an all-around good Samaritan… but you’re also a warrior.  That icy heart of yours beats as fiercely and valiantly as any other soldier or loyalist.  And from one warrior to another: I get a little jovial when I see that glow on your face – that glint in your eye – when you’re enjoying yourself in a battle…”

The Angel gave Thiji a confident smirk.  Normally this would be a gesture of acceptance between fighters, but the Diamond Sultan immediately noticed the visual cue, and his features tensed.  He had an instant flashback of a similar circumstance in the Sagolii Desert, when he was but a lordling just getting to swing his first lance.  Utilizing pugil sticks at the time, he would recall Luluma opening with a full counterclockwise spin to the young lord’s left, which he had barely managed to parry. She would then follow up with a graceful twirl to strike at his right hip, stunning him.  As he was reeling from the blow, Luluma would then backstep, sand kicking up from her maneuver, before dashing towards Thiji to deliver a fierce upward strike.  Thiji could but barely defend himself with his weapon before he found himself flying several yalms in the air, his pugil stick knocked clean from his hands and falling to his side.  This was Luluma’s trademark technique: The “Lesson Number One”.

Snapping back to the present, he braced himself for Luluma’s onslaught.  Like clockwork, Luluma would perform that same counterclockwise spin to strike at the Diamond Sultan’s left.  He would effortlessly raise a right hand, opposing the force of her attack to push her away.  Luluma used this change in momentum to her advantage, wheeling back around for a sweep at the right hip.  Thiji would respond in kind by balling his right hand into a fist, bringing it down to create another opposing force to block Luluma’s attack.  With two of her strikes now deflected, Luluma resorted to the backstep.  In the time between her retreat, Thiji – in a split-second flash of movement – readied his dupatta and threw it towards Luluma, the cloth wrapping itself around the partisan’s haft.  She could only gasp in awe before Thiji gave a hard tug, causing the weapon to slip from her grasp.  Luluma was able to regain her footing long enough to watch the partisan being flung back around and sprung into the air, as Thiji would attempt to sweep her off her feet.

Touching back down, Luluma would look up and notice that the partisan was already pointed against her neck. Thiji gave a smirk of his own, having passed Luluma’s test once more as he unraveled his icy fabric and returned the weapon to its rightful owner.  She gave a bow and could only smile brightly at how far her lord has come.  He was definitely no longer the bright-eyed and bushy-tailed lordling from the Sagolii.  He had become something malms greater, and her contribution towards this made her proud to serve.

“Though it has long passed, I want to say it: I’m no longer your tutor, My Sultan.  Your skill far surpasses mine own, but I will still uphold the honor of being your Quartermaster and combat specialist.  The next generation of Angels will need someone to teach them a few pointers, after all.”

Thiji nodded in approval, and having sensed the end of Luluma’s lecture, set back towards the city as twilight fell upon Thavnair.  She silently watched him and would shed another tear of joy for her Sultan…

A bell had passed after Susuna had spoken with the Diamond Sultan.  With the Servants’ Lounge adequately sealed, there was no need to fear the disclosure of their most sacred treasury.  Gazing upon his right hand he would finally notice the gold he had grasped during his time in the hidden chamber, as Susuna’s words echoed in his mind:

“It’s okay to be greedy.  It’s okay to indulge.  It’s okay to want…”

Greed is good, he thought.  Very good.  Why shouldn’t a noble such as Thiji have a little fun with his vices?  With a simper, he placed the gold in his pocket and returned to his chambers.  He would, however, find his path blocked by a Lalafellin maiden with her head bowed lowly, her brown-and-pale blonde hair framing her masked visage. 

She would slowly remove the mask from the veil which covered her head, her gaze still fixed to the floor. This was the Apsara of Humility, Lelena Lena, and she embraced well her role as she kept her head low and welcomed her lord with a warm smile.

“Good afternoon, My Sultan,” she said as she lifted her gaze to meet Thiji’s.  Her voice was soft and genuine, as though she had seen a friend who has been dearly missed.  Lelena would take a few paces, stopping mere ilms before the Diamond Sultan.  With her gaze lowered once more and hands folded at the waist, she would continue.

“My cousins may have already spoken their piece to you and imparted unto you their wisdom, but I would have words of my own to give…”

Lelena took one of Thiji’s hands into hers, gazing up into his ice blue-and-silver eyes.  His features softened as he gave his Angel his undivided attention.

“How is it that a man as incredible as you can be capable of achieving so much within his youth, unfettered by the temptations of the ego?  That a Sultan so benevolent can be the shining bastion of generosity, and create an empire that emulates those same tenants?  The answer is as clear as the blue Thavnairian sky: you are humble to a fault, my beautiful lord.  Even in your selflessness and acts of kindness, you are performing the obligations of the righteous noble, keeping the realm smiling and singing your praises. Etheirys is blessed to have you, My Sultan; we Angels are a byproduct of your continued success; we are an extension of your heart and will.  Any of my sisters, cousins, or fellow Angels would happily agree that they are honored to serve under your wintry wings.  I will even be so bold as to admit that we are prideful in this regard!”

Thiji appreciated Lelena’s heartfelt confession.  Save for Sesena, she was the other Angel who was incredibly close to the Diamond Sultan during their time establishing themselves in the Sagolii Desert.  It was there – upon the sea of sand - they discovered their Mhachi heritage through Queen Chichibi, and together they would set themselves down the path of the Black Mage.

“I have always enjoyed our talks, Lord Thiji,” Lelena commented, “and the pleasure of your company has ever been the highlights of my day.  Just by being present, you bring joy and tranquility to most everyone around you.  The smiles you bring; the lives you enliven; the days you brighten – no one would deny you the amount of prestige and pride you should feel, and yet… you do not.  It does not consume you.  You remain grounded in your efforts, accepting the fulfillment of your duties as its own reward.  It is a very attractive trait that many nobles could only dream of obtaining, and it is a trait that is not gained overnight.  Recall our humble beginnings in the Aldenard Branch, when our chain was first being created.  You were already preparing your grand initiatives to give back to the realm, with the tiny giveaways of wind-up automatons.  And then the creation of the Othard Branch completed our connections of the Three Great Continents, where you selflessly granted adventurers and weary locals a means of rest and relaxation – without them fearing payment, no less.  The Mythrite Suites remains well-kept and in pristine condition by the grace of your leadership alone.  And though they shower you with gifts and coin, you reject such offers, accepting naught but a simple ‘thank you’.  Such humility brings a tear to my eye, and would make any woman proud to be your Sultana… Forgive me for touching on so sensitive a topic.”

The Diamond Sultan disregarded the statement with a light shake of his head, taking no offense to it whatsoever… he was inured to solitude at this point, after all…

“Here you stand, summers later, still the amazing man you were before you were Prince.  Your Power and your Beauty grew in time, along with your influence and status.  And even at your zenith – when you’re looking down at the masses of the smallfolk and lesser nobles – you still deem yourself no better than the honest artisan seeking to make ends meet.  Remember this, My Sultan: you are a good man – a graceful peacock of brilliant blue and white, preening his feathers proudly, leaving all who gaze upon your wintry down in awe.  But you do not flaunt your beauty.  It comes naturally, and all who are attracted to you is but a passive result.  You are humble.  Solemn.  Everyone who gazes upon you witnesses this truth for themselves. Remember your deeds, My Sultan, and take the time to appreciate all that you’ve done… And that you still continue to do for Etheirys.”