-------------- Tales of the Silver Gryphon - The Castellan

She bowed deeply and waited to be addressed. The woman on the throne was all but lost in a halo of rainbow colored lights. She turned to the young acolyte.

“You are Malloryn Callestia?”

Malloryn kept her head down. “Yes, Imminence.”

“You have been identified by your superiors as being head strong, at odds with the establishment of the church.”

Malloryn felt her heart sink. She started to look up, disdain in her eyes, but managed to keep them shielded, or so she hoped. The woman smiled, though only a few could see it or would understand.

“Be at peace, child. It is not Our intent to conduct an inquisition. We would add that it has also come to Our attention that your dedication to Our Holy Self often exceeds that of your more ambitious superiors. We understand your devotion has made you something of a tool, sometimes a misused tool, and often used by those who are unworthy. How do you feel about this, child?”

Malloryn didn’t know what she felt just then. Her heart was torn between the imminent ass chewing she was convinced she was to receive and the unexpected praise she’d just received.

“I do as I must, Imminence. I live to serve Aphrodite. I live to spread love and happiness wherever it is lacking.”

“Spoken as a true diplomat. Did you know, child, that true diplomacy is the art of hiding lies within the truth?”

Malloryn wasn’t sure that was a question, so she remained quiet. She could sense something from the woman, even across the distance between them. She wondered if everyone else could sense it as well.

“But you’re not one to lie, are you? That’s a piece of politics you haven’t learned, quite yet. Or is it that your heart is too pure to be corrupted by political ways?”

Again, Malloryn said nothing.

“No matter, We know the answers We need to know. We have need of you, child. Your current assignment is hereby terminated. You are to report to Baron Maverik Harrahvius in Gryphonmyr. He will tell of you of your next assignment. Also, henceforth, you are raised to the rank of Sister of the Sea Court. Your “former superior”, Sister Thessel Nuran will be assisting you with your new wardrobe.”

Malloryn was shocked, but not necessarily speechless. “I’m not sure I understand, Imminence.”

The High Priestess smiled, this time so that all could see what was in her eyes and in her heart.

“We are pleased with you. That is all you need know now. Go with Our blessing and Our confidence. You will understand the reasons in time.”

-------------- Credits

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