Armun Kelisk, the Djinn Empire’s capital and grandest city. Its splendor reflects the civilization’s power and majesty which is also embodied in the genies’ ruler Eli David. The city stretches across several enormous platforms of stone, crystal and silver. The platforms, really more like floating islands, hover at different elevations and are carved or cast to resemble the undulating terrain of a terrestrial city. Each of the city’s islands offer a myriad of airship docks and perches for flying mounts allowing access to the city for non flying visitors. The djinn take particular pride in Armun Kelisk’s configuration, more specifically, the genies delight in reminding mortals that the city’s magic allows its layout to change at the Sultan’s whim. Genie magic also created the city’s cycle of day and night. The Endless Sky has no moon but when the light dims, the plane’s distant fire orbs look just like stars. The effect helps visitors from the Prime Material Plane feel more at home.

A small arcane vortex announced the appearance of Dahlia and Nazmyr. Dahlia‘s spell had deposited them at one of the many silvered receiving gates of Armun Kelisk. Nazmyr’s senses were immediately greeted by bright light and a constant breeze. Nazmyr instinctively shielded his eyes. As he focused on the horizon attempting to gain his bearings he noted the skies were filled with lazily flying castles, fancifully floating dragons and great luxury airships.

Dahlia stood at the gate hopping from one foot to the other like a little girl and she was not ashamed one bit. She was deliriously happy, giddy even.

“The air streams seem particularly crowded this day.” Dahlia announced as she surveyed the skies. “We are in no rush, let us walk the streets.” She punctuated her sentence by interlocking her arm with his and began leading him down a brilliant white walkway.

Indeed the streets were significantly less crowded. In addition to typical traffic, mephitis and air wysps darted about fulfilling their assigned tasks. It was about mid-day and there were many people out and about. Their vibrant cloths shone in the bright sunlight and the people moved like enchanting shoals of fish. There was chatter between sellers and buyers, old friends catching up and new friends made.

“The Endless Sky is the most hospitable, relaxing, and beautiful of the elemental planes.” Dahlia said with beaming pride.

During their trek, the street abruptly ended, the land divided by a pocket of air. Warring drakes dive-bombing each other make it too dangerous to cross. Accustomed to such incidences, Dahlia chose a new route without a second thought. On their way towards the new crossing they passed many shops; some selling succulent dishes and heady wines while others offered vibrant clothes, and sparkling jewelry. Near the crossing stood two sundry shops. The smell emanating from these shops tingled Nazmyr’s nose. The mixture of onion, garlic, dried fish, pepper, and spices made a potent combination. Nazmyr’s face contorted in disapproval and Dahlia reacted in similar fashion at the same time. They both laughed for a moment before holding their breath as they darted passed the pungent shops. As they approached the crossing, Dahlia took Nazmyr by the hand and the two took flight and crossed from one platform to the next. When they arrived Nazmyr was greeted by more brilliant white walkways, gorgeous parks and fantastical structures.

“This is the High Palace District. It is home to the Sultan, his extended family, and the rest of his court.”

They approached a building crafted from the purest marble, inlaid with semiprecious stones and gems, and highlighted with valuable metals. The handsome grill above the entrance canopy depicted a symbol representing the royal family; a circlet of stylized lightning bolts surrounding a six pointed star, both in gold, on a field of black. The oval light blue quartz door was thinly covered by gold metal scroll work and the golden door handles were fashioned into shooting stars. Nazmyr was awed by the architecture.

“This is the Peerless Embassy Building.” Dahlia said. “The central structure houses the empire’s many diplomats, hosting envoys from all over the multiverse. The smaller adjoining wings are reserved for diplomats on extended assignments from other planes.”

Nazmyr nodded in acknowledgment “And the building beyond?”

“That is the Sussurran Palace, also known as the Diamond Citadel, home to the Sultan Eli David and his family.”

Nazmyr noted that it too was built from the purest marble, inlaid with precious jewels, and highlighted with gold, silver, and other valuable metals.

The reception hall for the Peerless Embassy Building was a grand wonder to behold. The cream colored high arched ceiling was accented with semiprecious stones and valuable metals. This theme carried to the walls as well. Statues of prominent nobility were judiciously placed throughout the hall. The marble floor depicted a mosaic of the same symbol found on the front of the building: the symbol of the royal family.

“Is this where you work?” Nazmyr asked?

“Sometimes. I am usually in the palace. I have brought you here because Outsiders are not usually allowed within its hallowed walls. Dignitaries are confined here when conducting business unless granted exemption by the Sultan.”

Nazmyr nodded in understanding.

“Excuse me habibata. I must check in with the Secretariat.” Dahlia said before kissing him and bounding away.

Nazmyr watched as she walked deeper into the structure and would swear she was skipping away like a happy child. Indeed he wasn’t wrong. Excitement poured out of her like sunshine through fine white linen; she glowed from the inside out. The smile that cracked her face hadn’t been seen since childhood. She bounced into the Office of the Secretariat and after identifying herself was escorted into a back room where Talia, second daughter to the Sultan, had been waiting. Talia immediately noted Dahlia’s exuberant mood.

“Dahlia Hakbarah what has gotten into you?” Talia said feigning a stern tone.

Dahlia said nothing but just looked at Talia with impish glee.

“Is he here?” Talia said; her excitement building.

Grinning from ear to ear, Dahlia nodded her head in the affirmative vigorously.

“He is?! Where is he?!” Talia said; her excitement still building.

“He’s waiting for me outside!” Dahlia said bouncing in place unable to contain her excitement.

Talia locked arms with Dahlia. “Come! You must introduce me! I wish to meet the thief who has stolen my friend’s heart!”

Fatoush stood in the shadows glaring at Nazmyr. Nazmyr, who appeared to be too interested in the building’s architecture, did not seem to notice. The Djinn was suddenly startled by a firm clap on the back.

“Fatoush! What has grabbed your attention that I so easily frightened you?”

“Nothing frightens me! And don’t call me Fatoush! Call me Phantom!”

“Ok, sure.” Stallac laughed.

Stallac saw the object of Fatoush’s ire, a lone drow. “Who is that?”

“His name is Nazmyr Vandree. He is courting Dahlia.”

“Really? A drow?” Stallac said quizzically.

“My feelings exactly! First she robs me of my right to find her a suitable man; then she further insults me by consorting with that!” Fatoush said gesturing towards Nazmyr in disgust.

“He appears well dressed. Is he of good station?” Stallac inquired.

“What?” Fatoush said incredulously. “Why does his dress matter? Do you not see him for what he is?”

“I’m just curious to know if he is well off and at least of equal social standing. If so, although her choice may go against tradition, it is not beyond social acceptance. What does he do?”

“Do?” Fatoush spat.

“Yeah! ‘Do’! Like for a living?”

“He breathes. Is that not enough?”

“Nevermind.” Stallac said with annoyance. “Let’s go ask him.”

Nazmyr was quick to sense the two men approaching him. He immediately recognized Fatoush but the man in elaborate armor gave him pause. It seemed comprised of materials representing all four elements melded together. He was unsure who he was, but judging his appearance he was definitely someone of authority.

“Ah! Fatoush! Good to see you again!” Nazmyr said as more of a call out than a greeting.

“Don’t call me Fatoush! Call me Phantom!” came the bitter response.

“Excuse my friend.” said Stallac.

“Friend?” said Nazmyr “And who might you be?”

“I am Stallac Stoutheart…”

“You will address the Amir as Lord Stoutheart!” Fatoush interrupted.

Nazmyr’s face formed a look of clarity “Amir? Well…”

Stallac shot Fatoush a disapproving glance “Stallac will be just fine.” He said as he offered his hand in greeting.

“I am Lord Nazmyr Vandree of the House Vandree.” he said as he accepted the greeting. “It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

“What brings you to this city Nazmyr Vandree of the House Vandree?”

“I am a guest of Dahlia Hakbarah. Fat…Phantom’s sister.”

“Is she your business partner?”

“She is not although I am considering moving operations here.”

“Really?! And what kind of business are you in?”

“Arms and armament.” the dark elf said evenly.

“Ah I see. Would you happen to have a sample of your work?”

“I do not. I was not expecting this to be a business trip.”

“So it would seem that the main purpose of this visit is tourism?”

“Yes you could say that.”

“Then allow my to be your tour guide!” Stallac offered with a smile.

“I don’t think that is a good idea My Lord.” Fatoush said in protest.

As Talia and Dahlia exited the Office of the Secretariat, Dahlia’s giddy mirth suddenly changed to horror as she observed Nazmyr speaking with her brother Fatoush and his liege Lord Stallac. Dahlia did her best to control her emotions, still she became ashen as the color drained away from her face. She felt a knot develop in the pit of her stomach and cold beads of sweat formed on her brow. Talia too became concerned and the two rushed over.

“Stallac! Talia said in a light hearted tone as she moved to hug him.

“Fatoush! What’s going on?” Dahlia demanded through a nervous smile.

“Greetings little sister!” Stallac said as he returned the hug. “This must be Dahlia. Fatoush this is your sister, yes?”

“Phantom……Yes My Lord.”

“It is an honor to meet you My Lord.” Dahlia said as she bowed.

“Is everything alright?” Talia asked?

“Everything is fine!” said Stallac. “I am going to take your friends here on a guided tour of the city. Would you care to join us?”

“That is most generous of you but I should not. I’m afraid my schedule is quite full.”

“Full of what?” Stallac asked sarcastically. “Are you being punished again with busy work?”

Talia smiled innocently. “Nooo?” her voice rising before trailing off.

Stallac shook his head and smirked, “Wait here for a moment.” He walked into the building and directly to the Office of the Secretariat. “You there.” He said to a djinn emissary scribing at a desk. “Forgive me. I do not know your name.”

“”Lord Stallac.” She said as she rose in respect. “I was not expecting you. Ziva is not..”

“Here. I know.” He said cutting her short. “What are Talia’s duties today?”

“She is to meet with foreign dignitaries should the need arise. Otherwise she is to sort requests to meet with King David.”

“Would you consider yourself capable to perform such tasks?”

“Why yes. I typically do. However Tali….”

“Is needed to accompany me.” He interrupted once again.

“But…” she said offering the most mild of protests.

“Is that a problem.” Stallac asked. “I shall address any concerns that arise from her absence.”

“ As you say my lord.”

“Good. and thank you …”

“Radwa my lord.”

Stallac nodded and walked back to the group.

“It is settled. You’ve been reassigned to me for the day. Come let us all enjoy the city.”

Talia and Dahlia both made excited high pitched squeals of joy . Fatoush shot them both a stern look of disapproval.

“My Lord, I beg you to reconsider.” Fatoush said renewing his protest. His words changing in tone from a bristling breeze to a stormy wind.

“Excuse us for a moment.” said Stallac as he stepped away from the group with Fatoush in tow.

“What are you worried about?” Stallac said in not so low tones. “He obviously has wealth. He’s a noble. Sure he belongs to a drow noble house but he seems ok as far as I can tell. And if his weapons aren’t complete trash I might be able to score a good deal for the troops back in West Port.” Stallac said as he beamed a smile at Fatoush and punctuated his sentence with friendly slap to Fatoush’s arm. Seeing Fatoush’s scowl Stallac added “Don’t worry. Your sister will be safe. We’ll keep an eye on him.”

“Ok!” Stallac said addressing the group. “First stop; the Cirussean Ward!”