The Land of Grimney - The Illustrated Adventures of Cora Pearl, aged 12

*Carados's guards arrive with word of Princess Philomena's need for additional maids. The largest guard arranges for one of the servants to find multiple kittens of various breeds and colors for the Princess to choose from. The servants are happy to prepare for the Princess as the Queen has not been herself lately. The castle is solemn. Everyone hopes for a new cheer to come with Princess Philomena.

*Two more guards arrive with order for the stables to be prepared for Philomena's kelpie. Additional rooms for Lillikin and Garli. The kitchen is to be stocked with any baking needs for Lillikin. Two guards are assigned with the duty of protecting the rare but beautiful Garli. And, of course, a connected but separate bedroom for Kalvos.

*Esper approaches the castle and speaks to the doorman.

I am here to see the Duke of Zoltar.

*The doorman retreats inside and returns a few moments later with a simple command, "Follow Me." Esper enters a beautiful entry with two sets of stairs that unite at the balcony. She sees a sad woman in a royal gown walk across the balcony. The doorman leads Esper into a large library to wait. She roamed around the bookshelves reading titles; The Key to the Kingdom, The Bloodstone of Vorgania, Legacy of the Lost. Books cover the entire room but one caught her eye perched upon a pedestal in the center of the room. It was a leather bound, brown book that appeared tattered. As she approached it, the door opened and Carados entered dressed in royal attire.

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Esper Rakkaus
Spirit of the Trees

Esper, what is troubling you?

*Carados knows Esper very well and can see she is not here to socialize.

Duke, *Esper bows* I am here to reason with you. Philomena is torn in two between you and Kalvos. She will never be safe as long as you are divided. I am here to request a truce. Agree to disagree with Kalvos and focus on the Princess. Would you do that? for your daughter?

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Esper Rakkaus
Spirit of the Trees

*Carados dips his head.

I have tried Esper. That boy is too full of himself. How dare he try to separate a Princess from her kingdom! The very kingdom he swore to defend and then turned his back.

Perhaps you must swallow your pride, if the Princess has made her choice... You may be surprised at my words but the enchanted necklace almost killed her and she was revived by his kiss not yours. It shows the depth of the bond between them.

She is of royal blood. I will never give up. You have a lot of explaining to do. Where is the scapegoat I requested?!

*Esper was in shock. The Duke had consulted the witch.

Carados, why did you try to cast a spell on your daughter? She loves you without magic. Kalvos is just her true love as in a mate not a father's love. They are quite different! Jealousy does not need to exist here.

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Esper Rakkaus
Spirit of the Trees