Tales of the Pearly City (Pearly Tales Vol.1) [Completed]

64. New Allies

"You would go so far for us?" Cinthea asked.

"No," Cal turned his attention to Shayley. "I would go this far and further for her."

Shayley blushed despite herself.

"Currently the Elemental council holds an undisputed place in the city, but they can't speak for everyone. The present nobles have created their own faction and division within the city limits. What the princess needs are allies. Especially within the noble ranks."

The drone laughed, "You're using these ones, how amusing!"

"Using us? I thought we were going to battle?" Saltif balked.

"Don't you know, Politics is a battlefield." Cinthea cracked a smile. "Our owl friend means to use the strength of our arms and the might of our minds. At first, I couldn't figure out why the queen would accept such a deal, but now I understand the sparkle in her eyes. Things are going to get interesting."

"Indeed, this one thinks so as well. This one deems joining the Pearly city both interesting and beneficial. If it's not too much trouble, these believe the city walls to be greater than our own. These would like permission to build a residence in the city in the interest of better protecting the current queen, and separate "Fertile lands" in the interest of this one's Crown princess who will soon be taking the throne." Vincent asked.

"No problem."

This quick agreement shocked the once cool Vincent. "Just like that?"

"Sure, we're going to be friends, and friends often do things for each other with no strings attached, don't they?"

Vincent caught Cal's meaning and smiled. "Friends, is it? This one thinks it likes the sound of that."

"Indeed, the political game sounds right up my alley. Our people of course want a portion of this fertile land, however as a whole our people are more concerned about discrimination among the elf dominated city. We understand the alliance aspect but we do not want to be chased out by ruffians and disgruntled citizens, or 'Religious' parties." Cinthea placed an emphasis on the religious part.

"I assure you that there is no state religion, the one known as Brother Calloway is a spiritual leader only among the druids strictly as a guide and councilor. To the original inhabitants he is merely reverence for his contributions, only recently has there been religious movement placing him on a pedestal. There is no requirement to join this religion, and discrimination is frowned upon. Currently there are no discriminatory laws since the city is so diverse, you have our assurances your races will be protected by the city itself." Cal explained as calmly as he could.

"We'll eagerly eat any one whole tries to cause a ruckus for our princess and her allies. We always have." Titania licked her finger. "That goes for both sides, I'm always eager for new flavors to add to my palette."

"Public order is high and crime is low, we like to arrest said ruffians before the city takes matters into their own hands. It isn't called the city of perils for no reason." Shayley shrugged.

"The guards compete against the city itself to maintain order, now that's a new one. Very well, Lamia's are good natured enough when our territory isn't threatened. The princess will have our support."

"Will your queen also be moving into the city limits?" Cal asked.

"No, as the first princess I have a few years left before I am ready for the crown, I know that now. However, I would like to spend that time sharpening my fangs on the politics of the court. With the best interest of my people and the princess in mind of course." Cinthea smiled.