29 Stella Maris (2/2)
Fixing the clasp on her cloak Elya led Alexis to the brewing argument.
”What seems to be the problem here sergeant?” Alexis had donned her war helmet and the booming voice she cultivated coupled with the impression she cast made the young merchant stutter and trail off for a moment.
”This woman claims we have done something wrong and wants to search our ship.” He declared arrogantly, stomping his foot against the pier in fury.
”Is this true sergeant?” Alexis hissed out, fixing the Knight with a glare.
”Reporting to the Vice-Captain.” Linea saluted by banging her breastplate before explaining. ”As per standard procedure we wished to conduct an inspection of the vessel but were interrupted by the merchant.”
”Who searches a Condotti vessel?” the young man sported a dumbstruck expression. It seemed he really believed that his ship would be above the law just because of his pedigree.
”It's a requirement in these troubled times.” Alexis stared him down, pushing him further with a quick comment. ”Now that you're Imperial vassals, it is your responsibility to comply with Imperial forces.”
The young man sputtered in anger. No one wanted to hear how they lost their freedom after all.
”Fine. Here.” The man waved one of the Fanti da Mar over and displayed a tattered old document. ”In the name of the Son of Heaven, this writ exempts me from any and all inspections at Imperial ports.” He looked disgruntled that he'd displayed the writ but had lost interest in them knowing they couldn't respond to the Court's writ. Elya smiled in appreciation, trying hard to make it look realistic. She'd never been able to smile on cue, much to the dismay of her mother but all the practice she'd done seemed to be working as the young merchant's arrogant smirk slipped from his face.
”It is wonderful that you are such dutiful vassals.” That got a frown from the older merchant. ”However there have been many attempts on the Count's life and we are improving security. I'm sure such exemplary citizens such as yourselves would be willing to assist in our endeavours.”
The young man was about to lash out but the other merchant placed a hand on his shoulder, silently shaking his head. If they declined, it would be an insult to Nikolai Morales, and while an Imperial writ carried weight, it couldn't compare to a man who directly served the Son of Heaven. The young man looked like the type to cause trouble at every turn with his arrogance and so the older merchant stepped forward to take over the conversation.
”While I understand the tensions you must face Milady. We Condotti pride ourselves on our honesty and integrity so there's no need to inspect us.”
”I dislike subterfuge Master…?”
”Antonio Condotti, third Elder of the Condotti Family.”
”Well Master Condotti, if you choose to hide your cargo I will be forced to resort to tougher measures.” Gently retrieving a small scroll from her armour Elya unrolled it, letting light flash off the golden letters which represented the Emperors direct words. This was an Imperial decree Nikolai foisted off on her, giving her broad powers to act as she saw fit. Antonio's face fell at the sight of the scroll. He knew what this meant. In the face of the Emperor's words all he was able to do was bow. ”So please lead the way Master.” Elya waved at the gangplank.
”I can't allow you to enter this vessel Milady.” The marines unsheathed their weapons and faced her. Her Knights followed suit, prepared for combat.
Elya slowly drew her own blade, letting it slide across the sheath and release a shrieking sound as it was pulled free. This would be bad for the sword but it served to create a strong impression. Her enemies winced at the sound and trembled in the face of a Dragonslayer. She pointed up towards the deck once more and squinted at the merchants, letting the full force of her aura burst out and overwhelm her enemies.
”I'm afraid I'll have to insist.” She whispered.