Seeking an Audience with the Thane

[Parreyon Syndicus]

Kuras of the 4th Cycle of Imperos in Autumn, Era II of the Celestine Mandate, Era XIV p.f.

Parreyon wasted no time in trying to set up a meeting between him and the thane in hopes of discussing the future of The Imperia Suns. After settling into his room at the Inn, and making sure Ravaska was settled in as well, Parreyon sat down at the desk and set quill to paper.

To His Lord Archelon Andares, Thane of Imperia

From The Imperial Judicator, Sir Parreyon Syndicus.

On this Brightening, Kuras of the 4th Cycle of Imperos in Autumn, i have ventured from our Capital of Aelyria Prime to Imperia to discuss a delicate matter with you in regards to your Imperia Suns. I am here for the next three brightenings and ask for a time that is convenient for you knowing the busy schedule of a Thane trying to keep a city in check.

I look forward to hearing from you, Lord Andares.

In Honor of Empire,
Parreyon Syndicus

[Archalen Andares]

Being a rather slow day, the letter was both read and replied to post haste. Imperia had slowly but surely been gaining Imperial officials and the young politician Archalen had learned that it was very advantageous to himself and the city to treat these visitors as kindly and respectfully as he could. Upon reading the letter, the Andares esh'lahier couldn't for the life of him figure out what the Judicator wanted with the Imperial Suns. Always eager to rid them from the city however, Archalen canceled his next appointment and composed a letter to the Judicator.

From the desk of: His Lordship Archalen Andares
Thane of Imperia

To: His Excellency Sir Parreyon Syndicus.
Respected Imperial Judicator

Sir Syndicus;

It does me great honor to hear that our respected Judicator is not only in our fair city; but wishes to speak with me as well. As I am always more then happy to meet our great Imperial Officers and speak with them I have reserved time for you this very brightening. By all means, I am able to meet you in my Office located in the Government district any time today and if not then, on the morrow before mid-brightening. I will inform my secretary of your arrival so we can get to these delicate businesses quickly. Thank you.

In Service to the Empire Always,
Lord Archalen Andares

And when the pantheri arrived he would note that the secretary Lir'anna had been informed of his coming. The Shadow Elf secertary who was both a striking beauty and a picture of Esh'lahier youth escorted Parreyon to Archalens office. Knocking once she went inside and then a moment later came back out. With a curtsy she told the Judicator that Archalen was ready for him. The Thane was coming around his wooden desk toward the door as Parreyon walked in. Holding his hand out for a handshake (as was the Empires fashion, Archalen had found out) he would grip it with confidence and a wry grin should it be accepted. The first thing the Judicator would notice is that the Thane was young. Only just having matured in fact.

Archalens grey intense sunken orbs contrasted somewhat to the pale skin around it. Gray hair, a little more then shoulder length, fell on a long neck framing a scarred face. One such scar could be seen on the right side of his angular face running north to south on the almond shaped eye. Another scar held territory around the neckline towards the left shoulder. Lines form around his mouth tell-tale of smiles but most oft one would be hard pressed to imagine the grim face allowing one. The Thane stood only 5'6, but his lithe frame held straight and proud. He wore a simple white shirt and a finely pressed gray vest. His leggings were simple brown pants and shiny black riding boots that went knee high.

"Ah, it is an honor to meet you.....Judicator Syndicus." Archalen said, gesturing to a chair so the Officer could sit. "I hope your travel here was uneventful?" Archalens voice was whisper quiet, and rough. "Could I offer you a drink?" The Thane looked over the officer respectfully, wondering what business he had with the Imperial Suns.

[Ravaska]

Traveling. That was one benefit to associating herself to Parreyon's Pride. Ravaska had a restlessness for it, and after three cycles in Aelyria Prime, she wasn't sure if Parr or herself was more relieved when he suggested the trip. It was a two-fold benefit in her mind. She got to run with Praal, and get the dirt of the city out of her fur. And, she got to see what Parreyon really did.

The young Cheetari had a feeling he was grooming her for something, or at the very least sneaking in lessons on civility when she wasn't looking. Not that it would work... no not her. She'd never change. Tribal was tribal... but as much as the young Cheetari thought that, she had changed a little. Part of it was Parr's influence, part was Nim's. Her fur was cleaner, her actions were slightly more tempered with thought before they were carried out. They were small changes, not on a grand scale, but they were there nonetheless. But regardless of his motivations, Parr's lessons were always subtle, and his instructions to her very clear. She could come... but she needed to remain quiet if he met important people, shadow him, do a little hunting for them on the trip, and listen.

Later, when they were alone, she could bombard him with questions about what she didn't understand, and he'd answer them patiently. That was the deal. She understood the unspoken meaning. Don't embarrass him. Don't interrupt. In this she bowed to his will. There was no reason not too.

And so when he 'settled' them at their room, she'd changed into civil clothing and staunchly trailed him to his meeting, assuming a stance at his right, slightly behind him... supportive. Ravaska was there to learn, to observe, and she wouldn't speak unless spoken too. And if the meeting grew too long or too far out of her scope of understanding... she'd do her best to not fidget, and not embarrass Parreyon.

[Parreyon Syndicus]

Parreyon entered the office with Ravaska by his side. She had seemed eager to see what he did and it made him a bit proud to comply. The union between he and Rav had been better than expected, and their plans to form a pride brought the wilderkatta out of him. He had become changed, become better, at knowing what he was.

he smiled to the shadow elf secretary as she led them into the office of Archalen. he noted the wooden desk and general ambiance of the office as he extended his paw and returned the handshake with a firm grip. He noted the elf's youth but remembered that both Arabella and Audrey had looked young though Audrey held many more eras to her than Arabella. Elves were a fascinating race in keeping their youth, and it made him wonder the true age of the Thane though he would never ask.

His eyes then found the scars and it brought a smile to his face. Parreyon too had a scar upon his face the length of his cheek from mouth to ear where a huge winter wolf had tried to tear his jaw completely off. The scar was visible for no hair grew on the scar tissue. Parreyon had chosen to not have it arcanially removed as a reminder of the sacrifice he took to bond with Praaal, the great panther. Praaals emerald eyes on his muscled six foot frame looked over the thane. Parreyon wore a loose fit white shirt with a black vest, pants, and boots. The vest held the crests of The Empire and his station as Minister of Law.

"And it is an honor to meet you, Lord Andares. Might I introduce you to Ravaska. She is a companion of mine and had a desire to watch me regarding my work. I hope you do not mind for my desires this brightening are not formal in any fashion. Forgive me for not being more open with me desire to meet you until now."

Parreyon nodded to the question of a drink, "Brandy if you have it." He replied with a wink and a smile; serious in his reply but not caring if the elf carried no alcohol. "coffee if you do not.

I am sure that my desire to speak about the Suns might be a bit strange, so allow me to clarify. My father served and achieved the knight rank as a Sun. I followed in his footsteps and did the same. I earned the rare SunBlade for my honorable service and have never forgotten the origin of my roots. I was born and raised in this city during a time when crime was barely fought, and the city lived in fear. I know times have changed, and you have done wonderous things as Thane, though I will always wonder about the whispers of the streets. Crime has always been drawn to this city masking the beauty that it can hold from those outside it's gates.

I know that you now have a regiment of the Imperial Legions in your city and that this relieves some of, if not all, the burden of fighting the crime that has plagued this city for eras and eras. My question to you is two fold and simple. What is your plans for the Imperial Suns, and might we be able to work something out to place them under my command ... some if not all?"

Parreyon let the questions settle not sure how they would effect, if at all, the thane. Parreyon knew not the history that might exist between Thane, Legion, and Suns but was here to find out. "You see, I am picking up where the former Imperial Judicator left off. I have always agreed with his objectives though not necessarily his plans. He reinstated the Sel'Rakrya but retasked them to be more of an imperial policing force to go between the borders where local law enforcement could not go. A justicar had his hands tied the moment the criminal crossed into the next province.

I think his desire to aid justice was perfect. I think the reintroduction of the Sel'Rakrya was wrong. After Julos, everyone has a fear of anything 'rakrya' not too mention that the last sel'rakrya group was nothing more than spies used to watch how the governments acted. The New Empire has positions in place to handle checks and balances already. Thanes report to Governors, Governors report to Consuls, etc. The need for the law is for protection and Justice, not spying on itself.

I have a plan to bring a peace of mind to all those who house such reserves to the later Judicator's decree. I plan to rename the group and restate it's function. Remove the 'rakrya' aspect from it's title. Then my new group will work two fold. One half will deal with infiltration of organized criminal activities aiming at those that span provincial border. They will gather intel on these criminals and build up the evidence necessary to arrest and persecute these men. The second half will be more militaristic. They will take the intel gathered and make the arrests using proper and legal force.

The first half will remain secretive in order that their identities remain hidden from criminal minds. If they are discovered, then they would hold no ability to infiltrate and probably would end up dead in a back alley somewhere. They are the true heart of the organization for no arrest could be made without their intel. The second half would be more the muscle and face of the organization. My intent is to knight them in the Empire and use them to make the people feel more secure about this new organization; hopefully help the people forget that they were once named sel'rakrya.

This is where the Imperia Suns come in. I do not know how yet because I do not know the city's plans with them. I may ask for volunteers within the Suns who wish to join or I would be willing to use them all if the city has no future plans for them. I do know city's change and adapt to the times, and that the Suns have been here for a long time.

Now you know my desires openly; nothing held back. I am an honest katta and know you deserve the whole story. It helps you understand the reason for my two questions to you." Parreyon continued to smile feeeling that he had left it all on the table so to say. He placed his hand upon the center of Ravaska's back in proper etiquette. Now he was curious to hear what if anything was planned with the Suns.

[Archalen Andares]

Archalen nodded in kind to both Ravaska and Parreyon. "Ms Ravaska" he said as a greeting to her, bowing to the woman slightly. After seeing the guest seated Archalen walked over to his private bar on the right of his desk and opened the brandy. A vintage bottle, however little was left. Pouring himself a glass and Parreyon he waited for the ladies preference of drink befoer drinking himself. After she gave the item and he poured it, Archalen offered a toast to the Empire. "Please, Judicator....I need no apology for one as respected as yourself" he remarked, upon Parreyons comment about not showing his desire for a meeting earlier. Of course, Archalen didn't know Parreyon nor did he keep up with the katta, but a Judicator was to be respected if for nothing else then he was an Imperial Officer.

Then settling into his own chair Archalen took out a small pipe and a box full of genuine Arakmat smoke leaves. He filled the bowl of the pipe then used a piece of flint to light it. Of course, never before he opened the window behind his head to let the smoke out as if not to offend his guest. Listening to the Judicators plans of the Imperial Suns, the pale esh'lahier nodded every once in a while and offered a grin here and there. It certainly was a lot to be absorbed and thought about. Upon the comment that Archalen the young Thane had done wonderus things, the nobleman raised his glass in thanks and gave a wryly smile. And this katta was an Imperian by birth as well as an ex Sun member. Interesting.

However, more interesting was what Parreyon was unveiling. What were the plans for the Suns and would it be possible to put them under his control? Archalens mask of neutral emotion broke at this question and he offered a subtle if respectful grin. Oh my, indeed. The thane put a finger to his chin and tapped it there carefully. A habit he had picked up from the Governor Jones. (although he did not realize it.) What could he tell the Judicator? That he had no real power when it came to the Suns at all? That he had once tried to absorb them and failed? Or that he secretly wished and plotted to see them destroyed for the slight? That at this very moment there were plans that were developed slowly to rid Imperia of the Suns? Archalen took a drink from his glass, keeping his gray eyes locked on Parreyon all the while.

No, of course he couldn't say those things.

So, not sure of what to say he let the Judicator continue.

Then he talked of the Sel'Rakrya for a bit. Ah yes, the intelligence organization. This branch of the Empire had always fascinated the young thane and he listened carefully. He knew next to nothing of the shadowy organization, but both found it fearful and interesting none-the-less. Archalen, despite having little experience in Imperial mattes, thought the re-organizing the whole department very good. The dual nature of both a soft and strong branch of the organization sounded good, and hunting down criminals was always good for everyone. Especially Archalen, although hopefully he would never be in their sights. He studied the Judicator and his companion, wondering silently why they imparted this knowledge to him. After all, he was just a Thane and here this Officer laid his plans for the secret organization bare. The esh'laheir was greatful for the information of course, but curious as to the quickness of Parreyons tongue.

After listening to the situation Archalen took a moment to think of what had been imparted to him and silently puffed his pipe letting thin lines of smoke wisp out the window behind him. He looked to Parreyon and gestured off-handedly. "You are indeed an honest katta.....and for that you have my respect." Truth was hard to come by, but Archalen could see no lies in what was told to him. That was refreshing, not having to deal with the politics and flowery language he was use to. "Then allow me to be honest with you...completely." Archalens usual whisper quiet voice said as he got up and rose from the chair.

"First of all, I think your plan both genius in its manner...and efficient in its simplicity. To distant others from the old fear of the Sel'Rakrya is good and wonderus. I wish you supreme luck in accomplishing your goals in this....matter." Having rose from his chair he turned around and looked out his window into is private garden where the scent of flowers could still be found despite it being late in the season. The arachnid white arms lay clasped behind his back. "The Imperial Suns...." he said noncommittally. Turning around to face the two guest he explained what had happened in the past. "There was a time ago....when I first arrived I sought out your old organization, the Imperial Suns. I sought to.....form a close alliance with them. To help the government fight crime and ...relive the then oppressed citizens of the city." Archalen sat down in his chair again, and a somber look took his face as he looked to his desk.

"I spoke to the commander there...an arrogant man, but noble non-the-less. I remember he told me in no certain terms.....that I did not "understand them" and he blatantly refused my generous offer of monetary and supply support. An insult, I believe he said." An unconscious dramatic sigh took over Archalen as he continued, looking to both katta before him. "There has been many times I could have disbanded them...various articles of Imperium state plainly that such a force as the Suns are illegal both in action and organization. But alas.....I simply can't bring myself to destroy such a noble and illustrious order. Perhaps it makes me less of a Thane......" The nobleman said in a contemplating manner.

"All the same, Judictor, I don't believe the city has plans for them. They have served well, but are no longer......needed. The government, at much of its own cost...have reduced crime to levels previously unheard of." At this moment Lir'anna, the secretary brought in some baked bread and pastries for the three of them, gingerly setting each person a plate on Archalens wooden desk. Of course, the Thane had never received katta so the two didn't know if the two before him even liked bread. To that, he hoped he didn't offend the two by his trying hospitality. He looked to both Parreyon and Ravaska and grinned politely.

"Sir, and ma'am (he said to Ravaska with an incline of his head), one thing you might find out about myself.....is that I have a strong respect for the Imperial Way, and the virtues of Law, Order, and Justice. I am strongly in support of your....efforts with the Sel'Rakrya. I believe that the time is right. The Suns....so effective and awesome, would be better suited and served by serving under the Sel'Rakrya, or whatever you should name it." the nobleman said with a winning wink. "As I said, I am being honest....and as such I can tell you that their plans for their future are their own....but I will do whatever is in my power...to see that your plans come to fruition here in Imperia.

Of course, Archalens reasons and the exact history of the meeting he held with the Suns wasn't exactly as he stated. Nor did he certainly think of the organization as effective or illustrious. However, he had been scheming of how to get rid of them and now the perfect plan came. It would accomplish a number of things, but most importantly allow him to be in the good graces of the Judicator. Of course, he liked Parreyon and Ravaska just fine, being honest and surprisingly forthright. Archalen waited to see how the Judicator would react to what was said, and wondered secretly about the soon to be formed intelligence branch of the new program (although he didn't realize he was thinking on it!)

[Parreyon Syndicus]

Parreyon took a sip of his brandy looking evey now and again to Ravaska to see how she was doing and wondering how much of this went over her head. Prides did not have things such as nobles to contend with, and prides help more loyalty than militias, politicians, and citizens.

He watched the mannerisms of the Andares and tried to see the family resemblance to two members he knew, Moranor and Malkaer. Both of them had different styles yet held similar elven traits with how the stood and moved with grace. Moranor always seemed more reserved while Malkaer seemed more emotional. This fellow reminded him more of Moranor, and he liked that.

His interest perked when Archalen spoke of offering aid to the Suns and them denying it. He knew that Imperia had operated under a different format than most cities he visited, and that the old Sultan had never interefered with how they governed. Truth be it seemed most places ignored Imperia because it had seemed so crime ridden in the past. Imperia used to have a ruling council of nobles of which the head of The Suns was also a member. The Suns were the local police force, the magistrate, the prefecture, and the prefecture all in one. Half of the council was corrupt with payouts from organized crime. THe other half simply could not be proven.

This meant that the Head of The Suns had been rumored to have pay offs as well. Parreyon never believed it because the training he went through and the missions and assignments he was placed on always went after the criminal element. He always felt that The Suns were a place of honor. It also meant that if The Suns held criminal ties, that his father might of as well. He could not even fathom this thought. Questions could then be raised about how his father really died. Was it really the meteor shower or was it the organized crime? Parreyon ignored the questions and remianed focused on the words of Archalen.

The elf then hit key words that held Parreyon firm to a belief he had and had shared with Milo. The Sel'Rakrya needed to change to show it's adaptation of the times. THe thane had agreed with his plans and desires. Parreyon felt the elf was shooting his arrow straight with his words and thus thought Archalen believed in what Parreyon was trying to accomplish. He also mentioned that The Suns were no longer needed by the city. It was ashame that this was so, but he knew about change all too well.

"I am glad you agree with my forwardness. I do not like to politic my way around situations. The senate of old did that much and holds some of the blame for not doing what was right in the first place to force Julos the Mad to see an opportunity to seize power. Who knows what we would be like now if Julos had a conscious and overthrew the government for the sake of restoring it to what it should be. We would not be fighting the mess we are in now."

Parreyon trialed off from those thoughts knowing he was getting off track with political thoughts and beliefs. What he spoke was an opinion and nothing more. Some people had liked the old government though obvious he was not one of them.

"I must ask in order to understand what has taken place in Imperia from then to now, precisely how much has changed in the government structure of the city." Parreyon chuckled knowing the question had boundless answers. "There is much I see, hear, and know, but I seek an opinion aside from the obvious: that being the change in Capital, the placement of an imperial legion, a thane in place of a council of elders. I want to hear how the city handled the sudden replacement of the council. They were the elders and nobles of this city and ran it for a long time. There had to be some resistance. Might this be why The Suns were resistive to your offers of aid?

I know The Suns were a private unit that served every aspect of the legal function of a true government. Did you, as Thane, grant them a continued existance as the city militia or have you installed a city militia aside from The Suns? Do you now have a Constabulary and Prefecture established along with a Constable and Prefect? I ask all of this to understand how The Suns are no longer needed."

[Archalen Andares]

In truth, Archalen was not a member of the Empire when the infamous Julos sought to usurp and take power. Sure, he had heard some minor details here and there, but the situation as a whole with that episode was never imparted to the Thane. So, nodding but not very interested in the history of the Julos incident or its implications, he let the Judicator ask his questions.

And what questions he had! Archalen listened and made a mental note of each question as it came. There would be much to tell, but only so much time to tell it in. "Well.....allow me to start from the beginning then." the Thane replied, taking a small sip of brandy. "Shortly after I came to Imperia there was a meeting set by our most respected Justicar, Dzrg. He sought to form a functioning government....that worked." Archalen swirled his glass, remembering how much he had grown since that short time ago. "Its almost funny in fact..I came to the meeting but honestly had no plans to sign myself up. But something pulled at my heart, something told me I had a responsibility to step up. So I did. I was put in charge of the committee and shortly after went to meet my now mentor Palacrisis, who subsequently made myself Thane."

"As far as the old council goes..." Archalen continued "It was never around when I came on board. Only later did I learn....that Thanes here have had a historically different role. There was not much public outcry at electing and installing a Thane as the cities ruler,...but the Imperian people at that time had long given up hope for any functional government." he said with a grin. "The council had gone missing for quite some time before my arrival to the city....so it is no surprise that I encountered little resistance."

Archalen looked to Ravaska briefly and wondered if she was Sel'Rakrya. He wasn't able to tell so he gave up the thought and moved on. "Of course....there has been small pockets of resistance to my rule here. Mostly....unorganized pockets, but its nothing we haven't overcome. I sought to destroy them.....not with force but with good works. It is my belief....that most of the old council members and their people....have seen that my being here is a positive event, and not one to fight against." Archalen knew that was probably a lie, but truthfully he didn't know why their hadn't been more resistance.

The Suns, despite their decline of help didn't resist him. The old council members did not resist him. In fact, there was almost no one who had resisted him except for the Imperial Insider paper staff. And they had given up as well. There was pride in it, but it was almost too easy. He thought about that for a second. The young politician and nobleman knew he had either been extremely lucky, or somehow made a haphazard amount of moves that somehow worked to his favor without him knowing. Either way, he was glad for it.

And then Parreyon mentionted that this might be the reason the Suns had decliend forming an alliance with the government. Truthfully, this had never crossed the esh'lahiers mind. It fit, and as he thought about it the nobleman thought it was likely true. He had known the Suns had someone on the council, but surely he didn't think their decline of aid was politically motivated. Ah well, so much for that. They had missed their chance for prosperity. Archalen had no intention at all to re-instate the council and should even the slightest idea of it rise in the minds of Imperian citizens, he would make sure it was removed quickly and entirely. This city would have no more bickering councils, nor citizen kings. From now on as long as Archalen Andares was thane here the city would always have an Imperial style of government. After all, he was a part of it.

But for how long he wondered? The young shadow elf had been thinking of moving on for some time now. He had rebuilt the city almost single-handedly and knew that much to his disappointment his work here was nearly done. He had accomplished all that he sought to while he was Thane here. He had made a name for himself, put himself in a better position socially, and made a difference within the Empire. The young thane knew that he would soon move to bigger endeavors, but as of now the exact move escaped him. He didn't want to be a part of local government anymore. He had done that well, and now it was time to move upwards. He wanted something exciting, but something where he could still make a difference. He wanted something interesting and as exciting as rebuilding Imperia had been. Ironically, he wanted to be part of something like the Sel'Rakrya, but in fact he did not know this. Bringing himself back to the meeting at hand he took another drink and attempted to answer the Judicators other questions.

"Well.....I did not grant the Suns a continued existence per se..." he said rubbing his chin. "Sure I let them continue operating but I had never gave them the blessing of the city to continue. I suppose I've had a 'mutual understanding' with them. One that goes without words." And oh yes, that was certainly true. However it was completely different then the good context he had put it in. "However..." Archalen said, pouring his guest another drink should they be so inclined "since that time the city under my leadership has rebuilt the guard, militia, prefecture, constable's office and all aspects ....of justice. This is why I say they are no longer needed."

Archalen waved an alabaster arachnid arm in gesture. "Of course, the....help they provide is always more then welcome. But times change.....they have served us well, Judicator, you may be proud of your Imperial Suns." Archalen said seriously.

Moving on, Archalen now had some questions of his own. He was had questions he wanted to ask. Delicate questions about what had really transpired on the Isle of the Crown. Godah, the Ebon Watch who had made Archalen a Watch member like himself, had told the Thane of threats that faced the Empire. Ever since that conversation Archalen had been curious as to how that situation progressed. The Thane knew Godah had worked for the Ministry of Justice and as such it was likely safe that this Katta, Parreyon had employed him. Of course, Archalen wouldn't endanger Godah should the katta before him not know. Archalen needed something that would test and see if the Judicator knew about the Watch, only then could Archalen trust him to openly speak of such things.

Without thinking of anything that could be used as a hint, Archalen asked "Tell me Judicator, a short time ago a Dorin, a friend of mine, stopped by here. He informed me....he worked for the Ministry of Justice. One of his hobbies was watching the ebon starlight of the sky. Do you know of him?"

It was clumsy, but Archalen had to know of the events Godah had mentioned.

[Ravaska]

She was polite, and took water only. The alcohol the noble offered her was something she wasn't familiar with and probably wouldn't react well to her body whom had never had it. The Cheetari listened to both men politely, but the words were unfamiliar. They were talking of dances of power and places and organizations she'd never heard of. The noble in front of her would have probably been given to mirth if Parreyon confessed he'd picked her up in P.A. hunting pigeons in a garden park. She was fresh off the grass and not remotely civil in any way. Feral, completely unused to clothing, decent conversation, and even the small things like doors or privacy.... Ravaska was here to learn and to more deeply solidify her growing bond with Parreyon. Mostly, for the meeting she was useless at words... completely and utterly useless. If she would have spoke, she would have only embarrassed the big Pantheri Imperial.

But there was something she was good at, something wilderkatta were prone too if they gave themselves over to their better natures, and that was knowing truth when she saw it. The Cheetari wanted to help Parreyon even as he was graciously introducing her to society, and as he had his meeting she watched his contemporary and listened with her nose and eyes. She read Archelon's scent, weighing the honesty of his words and the small discrepancies in his body language that singled stress or humor or even things that might disturb him. She could tell where he was comfortable speaking, where he was uncertain... when he was curious, and when he was lying. All Katta could do it if they were close enough to their roots.

The problem was, without understanding what his words truly meant (which she didn't having a very poor grasp of common and an even poorer grasp of the organizations of elves and humans), it was meaningless. She could judge his character, and know in turn how Parreyon was reacting to him... .but that was it.

She made one mistake though and it was obvious once she made it. Rudeness. Halfway through the meeting, she turned to Parreyon when there was a break in the conversation, and quietly spoke in Katta. Their was an arrogance there, an assumption that Ravaska made... that Archalen didn't know the katta language and couldn't interpret it well.

"He only believes half of what he says about the others here. Some of it he says because he wants to believe it... that hes being accepted that people enjoy his works. Part of him is uncertain that is exactly the truth. His heart is good though, he means what he says though I don't understand all of what your talking about. He is disappointed more of those that seem to not agree with him don't move over to the side of agreement and he is confused as to why they do not. He works very hard for what he does here though, I believe that... though I do not know what exactly he is or does for this place. He likes you in the way of respect, his body says so... but he wants to know things but his words do not reflect exactly what he wants to know...." She spoke quietly, tilting her head curiously.

"I like him for all that he is an elf. I think he is sincere and that he respects you is a good thing in my mind as well... but he is alone here and not many surround him that help him. He needs more, but will not ask for it. The male prefers doing things for himself instead of asking others to do it for him. That is my impressions." She said gently, and rose to restlessly roam the room. The Cheetari wanted the scents of the others who'd been there, curious in her own right. She'd ask Parreyon later what a thane was and why he was both liked and opposed in his duties.

The Cheetari wondered too why these two were talking and what each wanted from the other. There was power and pride, both things she understood, but not the exact context here.

[Archalen Andares]

A surprised eyebrow of pale silver rose at the secret conversation between Ravaska and Parreyon. Not understanding any of what was passed on between the two, the Thane contented himself with taking a small drink while keeping his dual gray orbs scanning his visitors. The exchange fascinated Archalen and he made a mental note to secretly learn at least basics of some languages so this sort of....surprise didn't happen again without his understanding. It was also slowly dawning that the female katta, Ravaska, must surely be Sel'Rakrya. For this, the paranoid esh'lahier silently wondered if their coming here had been truly to discuss the Imperial Suns. Perhaps someone had sent the intelligence agency to spy on his office? Or perhaps they had other objectives here? It was hard to say of course but the secretive conversation did raise suspicions.

But it was not considered rude by the Thane, not really. If anything he was surprised, but not offended. But had the Thane known what the wild katta had spoke of, he would likely accept it as true. He did believe in his work here of course, and worked very hard. But as the observant Ravaska had also figured out; he was very alone here as well. Pride had a way of keeping it that way as well. If in fact there was a way that Archalen knew what the katta had picked up on he would have been very impressed, almost awed into silence. He had not (and didn't) know that katta were able to gain such impressions. Of course, if he did know he would have taken great care to find a way to keep his emotions and body language under even greater check.

Letting Parreyons companion roam the small office as she liked Archalen looked toward the Judicator and listened as he spoke.

(ooc: very good roleplaying Ravaska!)

[Parreyon Syndicus]

Parreyon listened to Archalen speak on his perspective of the history of Imperia. It was indeed quite different from his own because both lived in the city during differing stages of life. Parreyon remembered the noble, rich council that ruled harshly but not for justice or economy, but instead for their own selfish pockets. The council had hated the Imperia Suns because fighting crime put less money in their own accounts. The council had been tainted when they placed the highest member of the suns on the council board … or better yet, the Suns had been tainted. Their leader took to the greed of the position and allowed the Suns to seek crime that did not affect him. Though this had been exposed long ago, The Suns kept it hidden to hide embarrassment. At least this was what he’d been told from one lower ranking member to him. Parreyon never really knew the truth; he only knew he’d been here long enough and moved.

When Archalen changed topics it brought a strange smile to his face. Not because of any truths to what was being asked but because the dorin in question was a friend of his as strange as that might sound. It was true that Godah was a member of the Ebon Watch thanks to some trickery on the behalf of Ogabe, but Parreyon would never openly state as much. His curiosity turned more to wondering just what the young lord thought he knew and really knew.

“Lord Andares, I will hold nothing back in telling you my desires are to remove The Suns from your presence and place them within the Sel’Rakrya. But I will not force them into that move. I will ask them. This becomes more obtainable on my part if you have removed them from authority thus preventing them from being allowed to even remain a functioning army. That would go against the Articles of Imperium. I do not ask you to do this for me for that would be foul play on my part, and I want the men to come to me with the intent and desire to continue to see justice followed through for sake of the Empire. I will seek audience with the Suns and present my case but only upon your blessing and understanding that they could be gone from here for good … sort of.

I will be establishing a base of operation within each province for the Sel’Rakrya to operate from. The goal being the apprehension of all criminals who try and jump border to avoid arrest. The provincial line stops any prefect or justicar from pursuit. To petition aid from the other justicars can be asking a lot because everyone is strapped dealing with crime in their area. This base of operation will be a place for the local lawmen to seek help or even advice on a proper course of action. Any man arrested would be brought back to the place of crime for the justicar to handle accordingly. We will aid, not take over. I plan to use the Suns Headquarters as the Provincial base of operation for Arakmat.

This begins first with your approval, then that of the Suns, and then the Governor. If my plan seems worthwhile to you, then I would ask in your aid in speaking with Lord Jones for my dealings with him have been of a limited nature and allies never hurt. That being said, I offer my services to you in return for your approval and aid if given. I believe in scratching the back of the one who is willing to scratch mine.”

Parreyon then offered another smile, smaller and a bit more mischievous than before. “And what pray tell might you have heard from our mutual friend, Godah?”

Parreyon then reverted to his katta tongue to reply to his new love, “He is using words to toy with me darling. The elves have always been eloquent with their speech and excellent politically minded people. He is telling me what he wants to gain both trust and approval in which he might be of value to me. I was unsure of his tact until the mentioning of a spy who works for me. I’m unsure of his intent but am certain it has to do with the spy in some way.

I love your perception, Darling, and am glad you are with me. I too agree that he is not boasting of his accomplishments and has a good heart. I know what this city used to be like and what kind of authority needs to be present in a man in order to make the hard changes that he has done with Imperia. No matter the outcome of my desires here, I look forward to working closer with a man like this. Trust and hard work are hard to find in combination when dealing with politics.”

[Archalen Andares]

Archalen's thin pale lips me met the raised glass as he sipped the beverage. Then leaning back and swirling the cup absently in his ararchnid like arm he listened very acutely to what the Judicator was saying. Theses were the things that would not only strengthen his position in the city, but strengthen the Empire; or so Parreyon made it sound. And that was a noble thing, in both regards. Watching both Ravaska and Parreyon he wondered what they knew about the events Godah had described. However, the young nobleman could not bring up those questions; having been sworn to secrecy at the events Godah had departed to him. And Archalen would keep that trust, even to the dorin's superior. Perhaps when he got to know these katta better he could quench his curiosity. Straightening up in the chair the Thane replied to what the Judicator spoke of in regard to the Imperial Suns.

"Judicator.....I will be frightfully honest in revealing to you, that I will do everything within my power...to see the Suns through in this matter. If you wish it, I can certainly strip them of their rights to remain a standing fighting force....and if I can recall there is a specific article of Imperium regarding that matter. In short, you have my very strongest blessing..in seeing that these honorable men..come within your fold." In fact, Archalen was lucky that this worked out so. In any other case the esh'lahier would have to actively work to see the Suns destroyed, which he did make a promise to do so once they had slighted him. In any case, Parreyon could deal with them and in doing so strengthen his own agenda. It worked rather nicely.

"As far as setting the Sel’Rakrya's base of operations up in this...corner of the Empire you also have my blessing of course."Although the Thane knew the Judicator hardly needed it to accomplish what the katta wanted. "Any assistance I may be able to render you will be provided....I will see to it personally. I will also speak to Governor Jones....as I am sure he will be....able to appreciate the goals of this new structure. It will please him, I think." Archalen looked down in thought for an instance before raising his gray eyes back to the two before him. "The Sel'Rakrya's work is important. Not only to those who directly benefit from it..but the Empire at large. Some may not appreciate its past..." As Archalen had researched what happened to his brother Malkaer regarding Ogabe and his people. "..but others, such as I, can come to....understand its sometimes difficult, but necessary, aims."

A smile mirrored Parreyons own as he in fact confirmed the one he was thinking of. With the confirmation of the dorin's name Archalen knew it was safe to speak of him. The last thing the young thane wanted to was endanger the dorin by unnecessarily identifying him. It was good also to have mutual friends. "What do I know of him?" the thane chuckled good naturedly. "Only about a quater that you do, I imagine. And half of what I'd like." he replied honestly. "The.....dorin is a good person. However, without going into specifics, he had some grave news at some happenings within the Empire." Archalen said this not to bring any heat upon the spy, but to show that Godah had trusted him. Perhaps these two would as well? "In any case, he had asked for my assistance in his aims. I obliged, naturally. I ask what news of him? He is safe,...I hope?"

And Archalen sincerely seemed as if he meant that last question. After all, the dorin was doing very dangerous work. And if his stories about the Isle Corona were correct, very life threatening work as well.

[Parreyon Syndicus]

"Then I ask it of you, Thane Andares. Release The Suns of their duty to this city. I do not ask it to force them to work for me. That choice is their's and they may turn me down with no shame from me. I cannot allow a rogue unit of any kind to serve in a militaristic capacity that go against the Article of Imperium. If they will not join the Imperia Forces as member's of your city's force, then they will no longer serve. It is a sad brightening for me to see it come to this, but I have my duty to the Empire to serve. The Suns were a much needed and valued organization in the past. Bu they must embrace the proper changes of the future as set forth by the Articles and our Most Imperial Excellency, The Regent. I will schedule a meeting with them myself to help them with their future. Can I assume this particular issue is closed?"

It truly was a sad moment for Parreyon to issue the directive to do so. But he was leader of the Laws maintained in this land, and he would allow no one to operate outside of the boundry he was tasked to lead. This would be a hard blow to the suns and one they would not take well, he was sure of. He only hoped that they were honorable enough to see what he had done was the proper thing to do. Would they join him? That was another question all together.

"I also thank you for your acceptance of a Sel'Rakrya quarters to be established in your city. This was a primary task given me by The Regent to visit each city and speak to the thanes as well as the provincial governors and get statements from them all on who was okay with this set up or who was against it and why. We desire to have the views of the people on this issue regarding the Sel'Rakrya either good or bad. I am most appreciative of your acceptance."

There was a second agenda, a more personal one on Parreyon's behalf. If he could gain approval from one city in each province to set up the Sel'Rakrya without forcing the matter as Ogabe had attempted to do, then he would be granted a t