Traitors and Questions (1)

--Azala--

“M-my Queen, y-you made it!'' Salami's eyes widened as I walked inside. She hesitated before bowing her head, but my appearance was haggard enough for me not to fault her. Were I in private, a limp would have revealed itself as well, but a queen never shows weakness to her subjects.

“Rise, Salami.'' She did as instructed. “You act surprised to see me.''

“I-I heard the news of Garlaka's demise, a-and the K-Knight cornering you. W-we feared the worst!''

“The tin man won't kill me that easy. But... do me a favor and summon Lokta?''

“Y-yes, my Queen.'' Remembering her bow this time, Salami then hurried out of the chamber.

“Finally...'' With the room's occupancy count lowered to one, I practically fell into my throne. Having your spark pulled in such a fashion would do a number on anyone, as would recharging afterward. Admittedly, the vortex might have been more of an intimidation tactic for the unknown knight.

Hmm… As Demon Queen, I'm no stranger to anomalies over Compolot, but it has been years since I've seen anything resembling that armor. Even the imbecile who hounds me, blessed with armor and weapons from his goddess, did not feature such craftsmanship. The last time I'd seen an armor of that kind, I was standing in a wasteland, the corpses of over a hundred surrounding me and blood dripping down my chest. Have they r-

“My Queen?'' Lokta's voice as she scurried into the room broke me out of my reverie. “I am glad you were victorious in your battle. How may this humble servant serve you?''

“Lokta.'' He raised his head before noticing I hadn't yet given permission. “Do you know why I called you here?''

“No, my Queen.''

“Of course you don't.'' I pressed against the throne's armrest to raise myself. “Let me change the question. Do you know what this is?''

His eyes betrayed the answer before saying a word. “Y... your bracelet, my Queen?''

“The Bracelet of Aurotok, yes. The one I wear in battle thanks to it boosting my abilities.'' Lokta only nodded in return. “Do you know how I received it, Lokta?''

“The lizards of Aramel gave it as thanks for peace negotiations, my Queen.''

I nodded in return. “So, in addition to its powerful abilities, it has sentimental value. Now, care to wager why such a precious bracelet is broken?''

“Wear and tear, my Queen?''

“It had to be cut off. By a person I've never met before in my life.''

“That's unforgivable, my-''

“You misheard me, Lokta. It had to be cut off. Now, why is that?''

“I... I don't...''

“How much did you receive?''

“E... excuse me?''

I failed the urge to massage the bridge of my nose. “Lokta, I'm tired, hurt, with a lot on my mind. I know you tampered with the bracelet, so don't bother hiding behind ignorance. Answering the question would be in your best sake.'' Lokta provided a wordless stare, which I answered with a sigh. “Have it your way. Guards!'' The doors to the throne room flung open when I flicked my fingers, the thudding in the floor preceding the arrival of several behemoths. Lokta was vibrating visibly but opted to remain quiet.

“Lokta has attempted my life, and his actions lead to the death of a royal behemoth.'' An audible growl filled the room upon hearing that. “He's yours.''

“No!'' Lokta's voice raised an octave when two behemoths grabbed hold of him.

“You wish to speak?''

“I... wish for there to... to be peace...''

“And my death would be the solution?''

“No... no more Azala, no more reason for war. The Knight goes to his goddess, and the skin-walkers leave us alone.''

“You believe a single death would solve a lifetime of conflict? All bias regarding our species thrown away in an instant to give way to peace and prosperity? Naive.''

“I... do not agree.''

“Your agreement is not my problem, only your betrayal. Understand this, your actions have condemned you to death, but I believe in second chances. Answer truthfully, and I will spare your life. If not, the behemoths eat well tonight.'' A guard flashed his teeth in obvious pleasure.

“Ask, my Queen.''

“How do I remove the seal on the bracelet?''

“A fourth-tier uncurse spell should be sufficient.''

“Good. Who contacted you?'' Lokta visibly froze at this question. “Not the reaction I was waiting for.'' Still, he remained silent. “Your silence means either fear, implying the person is either in a position of authority or in possession of power. Thank you, Lokta.'' I pointed to one of the behemoths. “Tolsato, if I remember?'' The behemoth snapped his head towards me. “I suggest adding some kash spice. Really adds some flavor. You may go.''

Growling in appreciation, all six behemoths started walking toward the door, the helpless Lokta flailing between their arms. “No, my Queen!''

“Goodbye, Lokta. I hope you are delicious.'' Ignoring all subsequent wails as I turned around myself, my destination not the throne but my private chambers behind it. This day was long enough as it was.