Rita is thrilled by everything that is happening so suddenly, especially the fact that they are actually going to spend the Solstice in Lucimburic rather than in battle. And both Theoderic and Regulus agreed with her about the trolls! Even more than the thought of not having to fight trolls over the holiday is her sense of validation when both acknowledge the merit of her idea. Who would have ever thought she would be advising a king--and a unicorn!

"Could the Huns entice the trolls to join the war on their side? Maybe we should have some scouts spy on them just to make sure the Huns don't approach them for help. Not right now, of course, but at some point," she says, clarifying that she does not mean any immediate action.

She doesn't recognize the language Scolo is speaking when he responds to her question. Some of the words are ones she knows while others are not. Then Edgar explains about Scolo not being at his best.

"Thank you for explaining that, Edgar. I just thought he was speaking in a language I don't understand," she says. "I hope I haven't caused him any distress."

She sees him talking to the stars and thinks back to those first nights in Raviniacum, when she had looked up at the night sky and wondered if the stars had names. Too bad Scolo is not in a condition to talk tonight.

In the morning, he's making waffles again! "Good morning to you, Scolo," she says brightly.

Why would he want another battle? Maybe that's because the victory isn't complete until the emperor is completely defeated.

"Another battle? I agree this victory is incomplete with the blackguards still out there and the emperor still on the throne, but Winter Solstice is a sacred time, and it is much better that we can observe it properly instead of being on the battlefield. I'm quite sure you will get your wish. There will be more battles, just not right now."

Her comment is made lightheartedly, as Rita is in far too good of a mood to lecture anyone. Her intention is more like, we earned this, now let's celebrate it!

"Thank you for the omelette. Yours are wonderful," she compliments him honestly. The omelettes are good.

"I'm afraid I don't know where the original Mestenon is. Why would it be unfortunate for New Mestenon to be in King Theoderic's lands? Is it because you miss your home? Is that why you don't want New Mestenon to last?"

Her happy mood is especially obvious to Riordeg. She tells him about Solstice traditions in Arras and asks about customs in his home, remembering that Midsummer was celebrated very differently in Raviniacum than in Arras.

"There is Saturnalia, which is celebrated beginning several days before the Solstice," she explains to him. That is basically one long party, with a lot of drinking and dancing and music.

There are celebrations all over the city, but the big one is at the Temple of Saturn. At these celebrations, people choose a Lord of Misrule, who leads everyone in all sorts of pranks and jokes, especially ones that make fun of people in positions of authority. I've heard and read about it even though I've never personally been at one of the celebrations.

It's not something my family ever took part in--well, I don't know about my sister. But the priests of Pluto look at it as excessive and don't take part. The Solstice is different. We do observe that; everyone does, but in a subdued manner, like all our celebrations are. It will be fun to experience something different in Lucimburic."

She is quite sure that her participation in the Lucimburic celebrations will not offend Pluto and Proserpina. They had helped make this victory possible.

"I wonder if it's the priests rather than Lord Pluto himself, who frown on the wild celebrations," she suggests, thinking out loud.

Aelasuria is attentive to those talking around her turning her full attention to Rita when she mentions Melissa. "It is my hope that Melissa might be interested in coming with Theo and I. She will always be welcome and we have the ability to protect her if someone decides to take objection to her being a blackguard in the past. I also hope that Scolo will come with us as he is a talented wizard and I believe that she and Scolo have grown close. I think they have become friends. Besides we still have to help Scolo regarding his people and Town. He talked about setting up New Mestenon. Something that will take time, thought and is best done I think with Scolo present so we can work out a solution that is agreeable to all."

"Now if I am not mistaken didn't Theo appoint Scolo as one of Melissa's guardians or was that someone else? As for yourself I agree she needs to be able to lead her life. Don't see yourself as a Jailor Rita your protecting her by being at her side. Royalty often have to learn at a young age that it is almost impossible to go anywhere alone. The king and queen will always assign protectors to their children. Immediate family including adults rarely go anywhere without a small group of guards and attendants. I know it's not exactly the same but your there to protect Melissa so that she can have as much freedom as possible until the issues of her past can be resolved. In due time I believe she will earn the right to travel alone. which means for now you will be in her day to day life. Perhaps not all day but every day and you will have to exercise judgement on when to be discrete. Theo what are your thoughts on the matter? Is the time now or still to come?"

She shakes her head when Rita asks if the war is over. "No it's not over. Although the fighting will likely stop during the winter unless the Huns attack. It will resume when the seasons warm and are more favorable for travel without starving or freezing to death."

Aelasuria grins when Rita asks if Scolo would do the fireworks for the wedding. "I certainly wouldn't mind if he decides to share these fireworks at the wedding. With preparation he might be able to do a impressive display grander then this one that he did on the spur of the moment."

Listening to Regulus the Unicorn and Theo she nods. "I understand. For now we will let them be." Having been reminded of there contributions in battle Aelasuria is fairly certain she thanked them before. However to be safe she will thank them again. "Melissa, Scolo thank you for your Aid in the battles against the Huns. It won't be forgotten and I do appreciate it."

Having earlier extended invitations to the wedding and celebrations she can only hope they will attend and enjoy themselves.

In the morning she felt a touch nervous bathing if possible. Brushing her Hair and looking to Spica with excitement in her green eyes. Gently hugging Spica she draws strength from her companion. "I will be getting Married soon. I wish Marisol was here I want to ask her what it's like between her and her beloved. Although I guess Unicorns don't have a Wedding they just fall in love. I would have liked For Marisol and her Husband to be there. They are family after all. Spica do you think you could stand to be at my wedding?"

Eventually she comes out and for once she looks on with a touch of shyness when she sees Theo. Shaking it off she makes her way to breakfast Smiling at Scolo who she see's is cooking his usual delights. She also Smiles at Theo should he be there as well as Rita. "It smells Delicious Scolo. Thank you for being so kind in the mornings. Not everyone would simply step up and cook for our group like you do out of the kindness of your heart."

Hearing the subject of the trolls brought up again by Rita Aelasuria shakes her head. "No a trolls sense of smell is extraordinary, their sense of hearing I think is keen. Plus these are no ordinary trolls they enchant victims with their singing to come willingly to their doom. Any spy would in due time be attacked by this magic. It is best to either engage them in battle to put a end to their evil or leave them be as you, Theo and Regulus all agreed earlier."

She wasn't certain to make of what Scolo meant by doesn't last and unfortunately might need to be.  "Theo's Authority only extends to lands loyal to him as King. IF he is to grant land to be settled it would have to either be in the kingdom he controls or for land he can negotiate for."

Aelasuria smiles when Rita speculates about wild celebrations. "Life is joy and celebrations are part of life. The fey enjoy wild celebrations as do some people depending on where you go. Honestly it is my thought that Priests who frown have formed their own interpretation. Inevitably there is some variation of that interpretation between priests let along lord Pluto himself. Only Lord Pluto can speak for himself. I would like to think that he does not frown on wild celebrations."

When Rita speculates about wild festivities, Riordeg is deliberately evasive. There have been a few ... incidents, shall we say, that he would rather not repeat in her hearing.

Her excitement is infectious though, and Riordeg is looking forward to spending as much time during the celebrations with Rita as he can arrange. Given the fact that he might have duties, and that Rita will most probably be involved in the religious side of the celebrations, as well as spending time with the orphans, he's not sure exactly how long they might have together.

He will spend as much time with her as he possibly can though, and he will certainly be very careful about how much he drinks this year!

Along the day's trip Spica explains the courtship of Unicorns to Aelasuria:  "You are right, we have no weddings.  No ceremonies of any kind.  With us, it just is.  But it is always a blessed union. Once mated, Unicorns are forever loyal to each other."

It causes the Unicorn to pause to think.  Her father is a Unicorn widower, something very rare.  Almost always, the death of one in a pair results in the death of the other.

"You know Procyon's story," Spica adds, not wanting to go into detail.

* * * * * * *

Melissa does not usually speak with Edgar.  The creature is, in her view, simply too weird to bother with.  She's not alone in that regard.  Melissa has noted that a lot of people tend to avoid Edgar, when they can.

She cannot deny the instinct, but she finds herself questioning the wisdom.  "Sometimes I wonder," she says, "if we will someday think that diggleflops were something very important, but then it would be too late."

When Scolo seems "distracted" she guides him, sometimes, almost as if he was blind, or a child.  "You have to watch your step," she says.  "If you get your feet wet in this weather you'll have frostbite before the day is out.  The clerics can only save so many toes."

She explains the very peculiar Melissa/Scolo arrangement to Rita:  "You are supposed to watch me.  So I don't do anything wrong.  I'm not sure I can, because of what Eadoin did, but you're supposed to watch me anyway.  Me... I have to watch Scolo.  No one told me I had to, but who else is going to do it?  He lives in his strange world, and sometimes, he's not to clear about this one.  I've never seen anyone like this."


* * * * * * *

They walk back along the rough forest road that brought them to Lecterna.   The thought of a happy welcome at the end of the trip, instead of another camp, with another day on the road
ahead, raises spirits.  They move just a little bit faster than they did before.

It is still light when they reach Lucimburic, on Solstice Eve.  Their return isn't a surprise- fast running Lycanthropes had excitedly brought the news ahead of them.  When they reach the eastern approach to the city, there are already cheering Lucimbrucians alongside the road.  The road takes them to the "lower town", the wild and somewhat questionable sectiong called "The Grund"- home to Wererats, Werewolves, Wereweasels, and Wereboars.  The locals have a somewhat rougher reputation than many of the others in Lucimburic, but they have turned out to welcome the returning heroes nonetheless.

Many of them look drunk.  But they do look happy.  And there is Mergyon, in his polished, colorful uniform, leading a detachment of palace guards to escort the group in.

Listening to Spica Aelasuria takes a little time to brush her mane and tail. Grooming her was something she loved to do even though due to Spica's magical nature it wasn't truly needed. "I understand. It's love and mutual understanding without a need for ceremony."

She leaves the subject of Procyon alone sensing that Spica didn't wish to go on about that. Seeing all the celebrating people of Lucimburic makes Aelasuria smile. She waves to the people happy to see them happy and excited as they were. It was nice to see people able to celebrate something good and enjoy themselves.

Seeing Mergyon Aelasuria smiles warmly at him Speaking softly in warm greeting. "It's good to see you Mergyon. I trust that Lady Babette and Duke Barstow are well? It's wonderful to see the festivities and the happiness of the people of Lucimburic."

"So Scolo's home is Mestenon, and that is currently in Hun territory?" Rita asks, as Aelasuria explains the strange wizard's background.

"It was Titus, not Scolo, whom King Theoderic appointed as Melissa's other guardian," Rita notes. She has not heard anything about Scolo also being appointed as a guardian and assumes Theoderic would tell her if he made such a decision.

"They are very good for one another. Melissa has found a friend and a new sense of purpose, and for that, I am grateful. And they could be of great help when it comes to our dealing with the blackguard.

I have never envisioned myself as a jailor," she says smiling. "And Melissa likely will earn the right to travel alone at some point. I just want to make sure I am doing right by her and by King Theoderic."

She does her best to keep a straight face when Aelasuria starts talking about royalty having to learn at a young age that they can almost never go anywhere alone. Comparing Melissa to royalty seems a bit odd, though Rita can see the connection in their situations. But likely, Aelasuria's mind is not on Melissa at all if she is talking about young royals.

"So--will your wedding take place while we're in Lucimburic for the Solstice?" she asks. "Wouldn't you have to choose a date well enough in advance so those coming from far away have time to make plans for the journey? Remember, I want to bring the children we escorted from Lucimburic, including those no longer living at the orphanage. After all they went through in Lutetia Parisiorum, they deserve it."

If Aelasuria and Theoderic get married at the Solstice, and fighting stops until the spring, Aelasuria might have to stay behind when the war resumes, for the same reason Marisol did, Rita thinks to herself, trying hard not to burst out laughing.

"You should ask Scolo to do the fireworks at your wedding. It will make him more a part of the event," she says, imagining the children's faces on seeing him work his magic.

There is something she needs to talk to Aelasuria about in private, she tells her friend.

When they get a chance to be alone, she addresses Aelasuria.

"If we're going to be in Lucimburic for the Solstice after all, then I have to get Riordeg a gift! I really don't know what to get him. Do you think there will be time? How well do you know Lucimburic? I'm not sure what to get him or where to look for it, though I'm guessing the Grund would not be the ideal place. Do you think you could go shopping with me in the city?

I would like to think so too," she says later on, when Aelasuria says she doesn't think Lord Pluto would frown on wild celebrations. "Joy and celebrations are what Lady Proserpina brought to him, to all those in the underworld. She even has her own garden there. She brought beauty and color to what was formerly a gray, shadowy place. It seems I am truly meant to serve her. When the war is over, and we go back to Raviniacum, I want to build a shrine there in her honor, if the king will permit it. I still have to design a holy symbol and vestments to honor her. I'm not yet sure what they should be, possibly something incorporating Lord Pluto's symbols along with an image or symbol sacred to her."

At least once a day, she looks for Cirrus, just to make sure the girl is okay and offer any help she might need.

In discussing Solstice celebrations with Riordeg, Rita had been talking in general terms rather than asking about any of his personal experiences. If he is trying to evade talking about those experiences, she does not really notice. "It seems like each area has its own holiday customs although usually they all share the same reason and purpose. I love my parents very much, but I think I've killed enough demons to earn the right to celebrate as I choose, even if it is not quite the way they do."

While she likely will be involved with religious services and, if the wedding is held now and the children come from Raviniacum, will spend time with them as well, she is determined that she and Riordeg will spend time alone.

"I'm not sure what the schedule is or if the wedding will take place at or after the Solstice, but we should most certainly spend time together, just us," she says to Riordeg, a warm smile on her face and her eyes twinkling with happiness. "I can't wait for you to show me your customs for the holiday. If they are anywhere near as wonderful as your celebrations of Midsummer, I cannot wait for the festivities to begin! You might want to see the religious ceremonies; those at this time are quite moving and uplifting. Of course, I understand if you decide not to attend."


Rita is taken aback when Melissa starts talking about "diggleflops."

"What on earth are 'diggleflops?" she asks, smiling broadly.

"I admire the way you are protecting him," she tells Melissa after hearing the woman's concern that Scolo's toes might get frostbite.

"I think you still have free will," Rita explains to Melissa. "Not that I expect you to do anything wrong. Perhaps the gods ordained that you should watch Scolo. No matter how it came about, I think it's a good thing for both of you."

As they enter Lucimburic, she looks around in wonder at the cheering crowds, which remind her of last Spring Equinox in Riedonica, when she and her friends were welcomed as heroes for freeing the River Goddess of Bableni. Clerics of Pluto are not used to adoring crowds; she feels a combination of elation and slight discomfort. We are the ones lucky to be here, she thinks to herself.

What an unusual crowd, she thinks, observing the many types of lycanthropes. In Arras, she rarely saw anyone who wasn't human, certainly no were-creatures or unicorns. She wonders if Marisol is in the city.

"Merry Solstice, Mergyon," she too greets the were-mink majordomo as they meet up with the palace guards. "It is we who are the lucky ones. We thought we would spend the holiday in battle and instead we have the honor of joining this wonderful city in celebrating. The gods have given us a great gift."

Riordeg enjoys Rita's insistence that they must spend some time together during the holiday. He enjoys the thought so much he even agrees to accompany her to one or two of the religious services (Just how many services do they need, he thinks to himself. Wisely, he doesn't vocalise this!)

He is a bit concerned that he hasn't been able to pick up a suitable gift for her - battlefields are notoriously difficult places for picking up solstice gifts. He is even more concerned with the thought that Theoderic and Aelasuria might get married during the holiday - how on earth would he find a suitable wedding gift with such little notice?

He isn't sure whether any shopkeepers will be trading on the morrow, but he makes plans to be up as early as he can to try and do some shopping without Rita knowing.

Riordeg sees the signs on the shops.   They are open late tonight, and they'll be open all of the days following the solstice, but they are closed on solstice day itself.

Mergyon greets everyone, with his very proper, very polite, very official ways.  He explains that Cirrus, going back and forth as courier, had brought word of the return, and the Duke announced it.  That's why so many people have come out to welcome them.  He leads the group in to the heart of the city, across the Grund bridge over the Alzette, and up the one road that climbs the east side of the city, with the cornice of the Clear Fountain Plaza rising above.

They climb up into the "upper town", the heart of city.   The road winds up along the steep slope by way of several switchbacks, they pass through an arch, onto the broad Clear Fountain Plaza.

There is a huge crowd gathered here, and they yell and wave and cheer.  It makes the unicorns nervous, and Theoderic leans over to calm them.

"It's crowds," Spica says.  "How does Marisol do it?"

But Marisol has never seen so many all at once, or heard so much noise.

Neither has Edgar.  It curls itself under Scolo's cloak and shivers.   Some things are just too weird for Edgar.  So many people!

"I am afraid that's a better question for Theo Rita I am not very good with geography. Even if it's not Scolo has good reason to wish to move beyond the Hun's reach."

"I think you will Rita you have a good heart. Just when you help Melissa try to make sure she's comfortable and never forgets to believe in herself. Scolo may be the best thing that could have possibly happened to her. She cares about him and that's very good for her."

Listening to rita she nods slightly. "Rita we did. It wasn't until the solstice was almost postponed because we feared we couldn't be there. I suspect that the Children will arrive with Theo's mother. My family should arrive as well in time for the wedding."

"I did suggest the possibility to him. I truly hope that Scolo will chose to do so at the wedding. I think it might make him happy and I know the children and guests will love it. I will bring it to his attention again to see if he wishes to do so."

When Rita expresses a desire to talk in private Aelasuria smiles and nods. Gently slipping her arm into Rita's she walks gracefully with her until they find the privacy requested. Laughing and smiling she nods. "Gift giving is a very enjoyable event. I love the smiles and happiness that comes with it. I plan on giving Theo a lovely white cloak with a Unicorn symbol. The war and weather isn't kind so often it is something that requires repairs or outright replacement. There is little time though so I will have to settle for what I can find in the shops. Of course we can go together! Lady Babette was kind enough to go last time so it shouldn't be hard finding a few good shops. I trust Riordeg will have something like flowers for you. Perhaps chocolates those are delightful."

When she finds Scolo in due time Aelasuria smiles warmly at Scolo gently taking his hand in warm greeting. "Hello Scolo. Rita brought up that fireworks Display you did earlier. I did suggest the possibility you could do something like that at the wedding. Would you like to do that? If not I understand."

While riding into town she caresses Spica's neck soothingly. Her eyes soften also taking in Edgar's reaction to the crowds. "It is a major celebration. Such crowds as this is a rare thing Spica. If it will help I can cast a silence spell in a certain radious of effect. It won't remove what you can see, however you and the other Unicorns will no longer hear the crowds. Edgar you can take advantage of this as well if you so desire."

Looking to Mergyon she speaks to him wishing to do what she could for the Unicorns. "The unicorns find large crowds very stressful Mergyon. Could you please make arrangements for them to have privacy perhaps in the gardens as soon as possible. There I hope they can relax and recover from this experience." She also mentions Rita's request for shopping both to Theo and Mergyon. "Mergyon, Theo, Rita and I will need to slip away for a little bit to do shopping. Lady Babette is welcome to come along if she wishes though we will be fine if she's busy."

If Cirrus is present She gives her a gentle hug. "Cirrus how would you like to be a bridesmaid? Rita I am guessing you might wish this as well? If Ali'cor is here we could give him a special appointment if he desires it. Perhaps he could be a ring bearer or Salen unless you have someone else in mind?"

OOC: Weddings are very special events for elves which probably handle it a little differently then humans. It's just a thought as to figure out what special things certain people might do at the wedding.

Oh? Yes yes ,,, fireworks hmmmm. Delighted to do what I can my dear. Have you an agenda or perhaps a manager running the festivities?

I think these things go best with coordination.

Scolo realizes that he must put a lot of energy and spells in remaining sane for a day or two. It really is a big sacrifice and he does not look forward to the memories... But she has been so very kind, he will make it so.

Edgar hides and doesn't say a word.

As evening draws on, the wizard will seek out anyone who might be giving money or pay to the troops from the king to see if there is any portion for him ... Unfortunate he did not think to make that part of the deal.

******

To Rita Scolo talks about Mestanon:

Oooooh it is a sweet little town it is, surrounded by fey Forrest we grow an abundance of berries, black blue even the glorious orange berries. he goes on to discuss the rye fields surrounded by berry bushes and the dairy and all the people of the town.

Though we are near Lutetia Parisorium we have not been specifically conquered partly protected by our little old fey Forrest.
He grows sadder as they speak.
When I fled, they were all taken as refugees, Displaced for fear of retaliation.

... They should be able to return, somehow, even without me - but the deal with Theoderic is to make a New Mestanon in his lands if there is no way for them to return ... But you see, they need the magic in the forrest, they don't know it but it will effect them I'm sure... I would preffer more fighting ... I would prefer a propper truce with lines and a right of return.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:42, Fri 08 Mar 2013.

Seeing that most of the shops are open late, and that the shopkeepers are enthusiastic about new customers for their wares, Riordeg will ensure he makes time for shopping. It's very rare for him to go shopping for anything other than weapons, but this is a special time, and he really wants to make a good impression.

With the amount of activitity that will be going on in Lucimburic, the town will be broken up into different threads.  Using our usual "Parallel time" system, characters can post in more than one, but please not more than two at a time, it will get too confusing otherwise.  Please don't try to do it all at once!

The first two sub-threads I am creating are:

The Gardens at the Duke's Palace.  In the middle of the Palace, the Unicorns find refuge in the palace gardens.  Find some peace and tranquility here.  If it's okay with the Unicorns.

The Winter Merchant Faire.  Shops of every description are crowded into the town's two commercial plazas.  Shop for stuff here.

More will follow.

Added one more locale:


The Grand Hall of the Palace of Lucimburic.  Meeting, Reception, Mingling place in the palace.

When the group is escorted to the palace, this is the first place they will go.

When Scolo mentions refugees taken from Mestenon, Rita realizes they might still be alive, meaning Theoderic should at some time mount a rescue mission.

"The people of the town were taken as refugees? Then they very well might still be alive, being forced into slavery for the Huns. Did you tell King Theoderic about them? We might be able to rescue them or, if Heolstor's army took any Hun prisoners, perhaps we could arrange a prisoner exchange."

The children will be here! Aelasuria's news is exhilarating. How quickly things can turn around! Only a few days ago, they faced a grim holiday stuck in battle, and now everyone is coming together for what will certainly be the largest celebration Rita has ever seen.

"They're really coming? I can't wait to see them! I have to buy them something really nice, something to make up for my being gone so long. Thank you for making this happen," she says to Aelasuria gratefully.

"It feels like I've walked through Arduinna's portal, like I've been transported to a wondrous, amazing place," she says to her friend.

"Yes, let's go shopping together! I would love to have Lady Babette go with us--though given this crowd and everything going on at the palace, I'm not sure if we'll get that chance today. I know everyone will understand if their Solstice gifts are a day late, but it would be even better if we could get them on time."

This shopping excursion is likely to be very different than the one several months back, Rita realizes. How will Aelasuria be able to spend time walking around and shopping when everyone now recognizes her as Theoderic's bride?

"Lady Babette may have to send guards with us. You are going to be surrounded by crowds wherever you go. Even a simple shopping trip is going to be a big deal. I wish Vagrenk were here, not just because he is a dear friend, but because if he were with us, you would get all the protection you need.

I love gift giving too," she says excitedly, considering what she might purchase as a proper wedding gift for Aelasuria and Theoderic.

"About Melissa, I agree. There is nothing better for one's soul than caring for another, being able to put someone else's needs first. Perhaps the gods meant them to find one another."

This day has already had so many miracles that she feels lighter and more joyous than she has ever felt. But when Aelasuria asks her to be a bridesmaid, she is truly surprised, and her big brown eyes widen in wonder.

"I would be honored to be your bridesmaid," she responds, still partially in shock. She looks to Cirrus, quite certain the girl will react similarly. "But what about your sisters? I wouldn't feel right doing this when they likely expect to be chosen, as I would never want them to feel slighted. It's your choice, but maybe you could use both them and us. Isn't a royal bride entitled to have as many bridesmaids as she wants?"

Rita has been to only a few weddings in her entire life, mostly of cousins. That makes her unfamiliar with wedding traditions, let alone those of elves and royals!

"You will have to give me a quick lesson in elven wedding customs--not to mention in royal ones. We cannot have me messing the whole thing up by unknowingly making some social faux pas, the way I did once or twice at Midsummer," she says, laughing.

Clerics in general, especially those of Pluto, spend sacred times like this in prayer and reflection. It is clear there will not be much time for either in this crowded, jubilant city. I will have to make the time, she thinks to herself.

Naturally, everything that is happening makes her think back over the past year. A little more than nine months ago, she had been sent on her first mission outside Arras, in spite of her father's wishes, a mission that quickly became about escorting three young elves--one of whom was Aelasuria--to Geneva so they could see the Hun atrocities first hand and convince the Geneva elves that they needed to enter the war. Along the way, the group literally ran into Theoderic and his army, the prince's dislike of elves so strong that he would not even greet or talk to Aelasuria.

They met through me, she thinks in wonder. No, that isn't right. They met because the gods arranged it. I was just a messenger working their will.

She thinks back to the visit of the elven Mark with the unicorns, to the grieving Entherin, who believed the magic of the Mark to be lost, and to her own inspiration that the gods had brought Theoderic and Aelasuria together so it might be reinstated.

And then she thinks of her conversation with Evroul, the priest of Pluto at Catolacus, when she had accompanied Theoderic there to pay homage to his late father and brother. "The hope is now in you," Evroul had told Theoderic, which to Rita conferred not just a legitimacy but a divine destiny to Theoderic as the one who, with the help of the gods, will bring down the Hun empire.

And now, it's all coming true.

She shares her thoughts and stories about the last year with Riordeg, provided he is interested in hearing them.

"The bards will be singing of these historic events down through the ages. Think how lucky we are to be a part of all this.

When we're not shopping for each other, perhaps we can help each other find wedding gifts for King Theoderic and Aelasuria," she suggests. The shopping will give her and Riordeg some time together.

"Aelasuria asked Cirrus and me to be her bridesmaids," she shares with Riordeg. "I told her I am honored, but I want to make sure she asks her sisters too. Being part of a royal wedding, with such an unusual group of guests--I can hardly imagine it!"

Uh - rescue yes, no I mean - they were refugees not prisoners, they went off with some hunter fellow, hired by the Accademy to kill me, but he was nice enough when he had goblins to kill.

Who was that fellow? Where did he lead them?

Edgar remembers ...

Aramil, was the assassin, and he led the people to Aretum... Where is that?
This message was last edited by the player at 14:42, Mon 11 Mar 2013.

Despite the obvious fact that Edgar and the Unicorns are nothing at all alike, they share one similarity:  they don’t like crowds.

One might think, why would a creature of chaos dislike a crowd?  Isn’t it a chaotic jumble of different thoughts and personalities?  But that doesn’t really capture the essence of a crowd.  No, the amazing feature of a crowd, whether at a sporting event, fleeing a catastrophe, or cheering a hero, is its ability to get hundreds, even thousands of minds thinking in unison, and that is as anti-chaos as anything could be.

”Loud, despicable place,” Edgar grunts, “forcing me to be happy.  No, I don’t know where they went.  Was I supposed to keep track of them?  Were they important? “

* * * * * * *

Mergyon parts the crowd, and smiles and waves, practically floating on the peculiar notion that Wereminks manage to have, that even when the crowd is very clearly reacting to the returning King and is entourage, it really is all about him.

They walk across the Clear Fountain Plaza.  It's been decorated for the season, with twinkling lights and boughs of holly.  A pair of Werehedgehogs are making the last touches.

"Dag, what are you doing?  That's not a bough, that's a branch?"
"I'm sorry, Norb, it looked like a bough to me.  What's the difference?"
"A bough is more festive.  Only comes out this time of year.  All the rest of the year we only have branches.  That's a branch."

They hurry out of the way.  Aelasuria and Rita are certain they've seen them before.

There are other familiar faces here too- Centaurs!

"Oh yes," Mergyon says.  "A large group from Raviniacum arrived before you did.  His majesty Theoderic's family is already here.  They came with the Centaurs.  Come, we will settle into the palace.  You have quarters arranged."

"What about the troops?"  Theoderic asks.  There are not many here, but there are some.

"There is room for a small guard in the guest wing, the rest will stay at the barracks," the Weremink says.

They cut through the crowd, and across the plaza to the palace.

Riordeg is happy to go shopping for the royal couple's wedding present with Rita - it means he won't have to think of something appropriate, he'll just follow Rita's lead. That should leave him more time to find something nice for her.

"Well, of course she'd want you to be her bridesmaid! It stands to reason Aelasuria would want the prettiest girl in town to stand with her. I wouldn't worry about her sisters though - I've noticed that even normal weddings can get out of control with the number of people taking part. As it's a royal wedding I wouldn't be surprised if dozens of people get to take part."

He gives her a dazzling smile. "Of course, you'll outshine the lot of them dear."

Her expression is very happy when he say yes giving him a look of appreciation.  "Thank you Scolo. I truly appreciate that! I look forward to seeing you and Melissa at the wedding. I hope you both have a wonderful time."

She nods slightly thinking about it. "Yes your right. It's probably best if you talk with Mergyon and possibly Lady Babette if she's taking a personal hand in coordinating the wedding. I will speak to both of them and make certain you have a chance to talk with them. If you have the time now please come with me." She does just that finding Lady Babette and Mergyon as soon as she can. Aelasuria takes a few moments informing them of her idea to include Scolo. That using his magic he would cause fireworks to go off during the celebration/wedding. They just needed to coordinate when and how it would be best to do so.

Aelasuria shakes her head when Rita becomes worried about Scolo's people. "Rita we were there Theo and I. We fought off the goblins sent to assassinate him. That is when we made the agreement with Scolo that if he was willing to help us against the Huns that Theo would establish a new place for Scolo's people to settle. I believe what he means is they left for safer towns to await the time where they could resettle. I think I suggested that myself. Other then being forced to leave their homes Rita while things are more difficult because of that they should be safe." Scolo of course also clarifies the situation!

She takes a moment to give Rita a gentle hug. "Your welcome although their is no need to hug me. It was your idea after all. Yes we should go shopping the sooner the better. Let us hope that things are not to busy."

Aelasuria laughs and smiles speaking softly to Rita.  "You miss Vangrenk don't you. Honestly I don't think we need guards. The were folk of Lucimburic are celebrating the victory and our return. Their people are very aware of non were folk. We shouldn't need guards here. Although I will concede the matter if Duke Barstow or Theo assign guards to us. I do miss Ovo as well I think he would enjoy it here. I Know he would personally volunteer to guard us."

She miles at Rita gently taking her hand. "I will try though I am confident you won't make any Faux pass. Thank you Rita for agreeing to be one of my brides maids. Of course they will be." Aelasuria gets a mischievous look one she had gotten from her mother. Although she resists her Mischievous impulse of the moment.

Though she stops taking in the beauty of the Clear Fountain being decorated and the plaza itself. "Oh my that's a lovely sight. Rita have you ever seen such a wonder?" She can't help but giggle a moment at the Werehedgehogs arguing about the branch. She smiles and greets them. "Hello Dag, Norb thank you for decorating the fountain. It looks truly lovely." She lets them go as they get out of the way. After all they likely had more work to do. Still she was happy to have had a chance to thank them for their efforts.

If there is time and she spots Eadoin she takes a moment to give him a hug and greet him warmly. "Hello Eadoin. It's good to see you! We can't stay long so many things to do. Did you get a chance to invite Apple blossom to come to Lucimburic for the Solstice and the wedding?" She couldn't Imagine Eadoin being here without Apple blossom for such a special occasion. However if she isn't present she would understand.

Aelasuria smiles at Riordeg as he compliments Rita her green eyes glancing form him to Rita wondering if she would blush. "I think after we are settled in at the Palace we can probably sneak away to shop."

We're going to do a little time skipping to get everyone together.

After the chaos and pomp of the arrival, with Mergyon dragging everyone to the palace through the crowd of the Clear Fountain Plaza, the group discovers many other arrivals- Eadoin made it here with a big group from Raviniacum, including Chara and Entherin, who have been discussing "plans" with Duchess Babette.

There was a big dinner for everyone in one of the halls of the palace- buffet style so people could come and go- everyone was so busy.

The following day is the Solstice.  The Solstice is an important holiday everywhere, even here, although the Lycanthropes consider the Lunar New Year a more important occassion, as their goddess, Diana, is a moon goddess.

Still, all the shops are closed on the Solstice Day.  This seems mostly because the city needs a rest.  Day after day of noise and festivity...and it will start right up again when the solstice is over, and go on for at least a week.  Everyone needs a day off.

Even the characters.  They spend a day resting.  Late on Solstice day, others arrive- the troops who went east, including the Dwarves (who quickly pile into the market place, eager to see what's for sale) and the Elven volunteer force from the Alps.

This group is the Elven force that came to help as a result of the request for help Aelasuria, Rita, and Theoderic brought when they visited Geneva.  They are led by an Elven Noblewoman, Anakri, who Aelasuria knows as an old and important ally of her family.  (

The Elves settle in a camp along the slope on the south side of the city.  The Dwarves set up camp in a military practice field in the main Lucimburic fortress, on a promontory overlooking the river, reachable from a causeway near the palace.

(If needed, both will get sub threads)

There is a lot of reuniting.  A lot of people are here.  Assume all the characters have a chance to meet and greet whoever is here.  You can handle individual conversations with PM's.

Scolo approaches Lady Babette and explains that he can make many things work according to a specific timing, but he would need time to prepare, first he will need several alchemical compounds and paper as well as bolts, arrows and such, preferably the type. With alchemical compartments, twenty or so crossbows would help reduce cost in materials.

And it is important for me to understand the agenda you have planned, my dear, you see I can produce many effects on the fly, but the most fabulous things will require set up no more than 8 hours ahead of time, I will need to know exactly when to arrange these effects.
 

During the day off, Solstice day,  the Wizard remains secluded, so much sanity several days in a row is grating on his nerves. He wakes at night, as if from nightmares, he is jumpy and snaps at anyone.

He works diligently on the fireworks, pausing only when he can't drown out the thought of that poor girl screaming. Oh gods why? No to the abyss with the gods, they don't care for the truth or talent Only their worshipers get favors, nothing really loving in that is there? By evening he is nearly paralyzed with the suffering memories, the constant reminders of how he encouraged, supported and allowed the most brilliant young wizardess of her age to create and in making cross over the very portal he keeps now ... She was twisted by it, twisted physically, unimaginably while he watched and did nothing. All of his work with chaos made him not even realize the horror of the moment, as if he was just watching another experiment, and whenever the curse of clear mindedness is with him, she haunts his waking and sleeping moments, she and a dozen others, like Marcel, and the boy in the village, and the beast - all of them damaged, unlikely to ever be whole again by this stupid quest for truth.

He writes in his to do list, and prepares the fireworks. Nothing else will he do - Scolo sinks low when his work is done.

"I remember Aramil," Rita says. "If the people of Mestenon went with him, then they're fine.

Of course I miss Vagrenk," she responds to Aelasuria when they go shopping on the eve of the Solstice, after the dinner. "I miss Ovo too. Do you know where he is? I wish he could be here."

She smiles when the group runs into Dag and Norb decorating. "Greetings, and Merry Solstice. It's so good to see you again. How have you been?"

No, I have never seen anything like this, she realizes when Aelasuria points out the beauty of the fountain and plaza. "They are lovely, no matter what you call them," she says, noting the were-hedgehogs argument over the terms "branch" and "bough." "Of course people decorate in Arras, but not like this--this is breathtaking," she says genuinely.

She smiles mischievously, her eyes twinkling, when Riordeg calls her "the prettiest girl in town" and says, "you'll outshine the lot of them."

"Now that wouldn't do at all! The bride is supposed to outshine everyone and be the prettiest girl around," she says teasingly to Riordeg. "No one is allowed to look better than Aelasuria," she adds.

"I hope you're staying in the palace and not the barracks," she tells him, a broad smile on her face.

She is overjoyed when Mergyon mentions the arrival of the large group from Raviniacum. The children are here!

As soon as possible, either before or during the dinner, she finds the children and Lady Chara and is happily reunited with them.

"It is good to see you on such a happy occasion," she says upon meetingup with Lady Chara. "Will the children be staying in the palace too?" Rita wants to make sure they get the best food and sleeping quarters possible.

She also happily greets Eadoin, hugging him and the younger centaurs from Raviniacum. "This new group of centaurs fought bravely and played a major role in our victory," she tells them. "And I see they've brought a group of similar creatures," she says, indicating the hybsils. "Are they fey creatures too? I don't believe I've ever seen them before."

They may have already been in Raviniacum when she stopped by for a one-day visit last time, but in the rush to see all the children, she didn't notice them.

During dinner and then on Solstice Day, she takes time to speak with every one of the children, hugging those who will allow it. She wants to know how each one is doing and how the orphanage, including the school, is doing. Has Lady Chara been the acting teacher, or did they find someone else to teach? She makes sure to spend individual time with each child urging them to confide in her if there is any trouble or unhappiness in their lives. How does little Omri seem? What about Enzo, who had been afraid to get close to anyone for fear of losing them too? Are any of the teenage boys training as soldiers? She hopes none has gotten into serious battles, as they are too young and barely trained for that kind of danger.

"Do not be afraid to tell me about such things just because we've been apart for a while. Anything that is a problem for you is something I need to address," she says.

If there is time after dinner, she will go shopping with Aelasuria, Riordeg, and anyone else who wants to come along. There are a lot of gifts to buy, and while she likely will not get them all tonight, she can at least get a good start.

If Duke Barstow, Lady Babette, and the people of Lucimburic do not object, Rita wants to hold her own religious service on Solstice Day, which she urges the children, close friends, and anyone interested to attend, making sure the time does not conflict with any other services being held that day. If allowed, she will conduct the service in one of the palace rooms; otherwise, she will seek to hold it at Lucimburic's Roman temple. The service honors Pluto and Proserpina but not exclusively, as prayers are given toward all the gods in gratitude for the victory and the season. She invokes Pluto and Proserpina especially in asking them to watch over those who fell in battle and those martyred by the Huns' oppression and demonic sacrifices. She keeps the service to no longer than an hour, wanting to be sensitive to everyone's needs.

"Just as the Moon grows from new to full, then wanes until it disappears, only to be reborn three days after its disappearance, so the Sun, at least from our perspective, grows in strength, comes to its fullness at the Summer Solstice, then declines to its weakest point, stands still for three days, and then is reborn on this day, allowing life to continue. Lady Proserpina teaches us that even death is not forever, that both life and death are parts of a never-ending cycle," she shares.

"We defy the emperor and his demons just by celebrating today," she adds, knowing the children will understand what she means, as they had told her months ago that the emperor prohibits Solstice celebrations.

Then she asks the children to sing a song she taught them back in Raviniacum, helping them start and joining with them.

"We who can love both Sun and Moon,
joyful in both seed and bloom,
sound and silence, dark and light,
Have nothing to fear from the long Winter's night."

Later, she spends time with the whole group of children, including Cirrus, apologizing for having been gone so long but explaining why it was necessary and recounting the victories of Theoderic's forces against the Huns and demons.

"The last thing I wanted was to be apart from all of you. I never intended to be away so long. There wasn't any choice. The Huns sent demons to my own home city, Arras, to attack the Temple of Pluto. If we don't take the fight to them, they will eventually come to us, and there is no way our king will allow that. The battle of the Ardennes is over, but the greater war is not. That will happen only when King Theoderic's forces march into Lutetia Parisiorum and defeat the emperor and destroy every demon worshipping site there."

To bring about a lighter, more playful mood, she comes up with an idea. "It is traditional on the Solstice to choose a Lord of Misrule, who leads everyone in pranks and practical jokes and even making fun of people in positions of authority. All in good taste, of course, nothing that would hurt anyone.  What do you say we elect Riordeg as our Lord of Misrule today?"

Hoping the children play along, she tries to get Riordeg started. "Tell us about the emperor," she asks him. He hadn't been in Lutetia Parisiorum but knows from Rita of the emperor's outlandish costumes and his inability to pronounce the letter "r." "I mean, the Hun emperor of Wome," she adds, to remind him.

With the wedding coming, she asks the children and Lady Chara if they have brought appropriate clothing to wear to the ceremony. If they don't have it, Rita will go shopping and buy it for them. She also makes sure Melissa has appropriate clothing; if not, she offers to accompany her in shopping for it.

She makes sure that she and Riordeg get private time together, most likely that evening, after she spends time with the children.

"This day is special for so many reasons. It is the day I was ordained as a priestess, exactly one year ago. Now the high priest who presided over my ordination is gone to join Lord Pluto," she says to him sadly.

"I think this day is probably one of the greatest in my life," she shares with him. We need more days like this and fewer like most days of the last few months," she says.

Rita checks in with “the children” and finds that her small group of orphans from Lutetia Parisiorum (now smaller due to several adoptions, and the adopted children are spending the solstice with adopted families) as well as Cirrus’s leaving them as she is really too old to be with them any more, is down to four.

But Entherin and Chara have brought all of them, and she finds them in the main hall, hovering near the “sweets” section of the buffet table, in the thread: The Grand Hall of the Palace of Lucimburic, where Entherin and Chara and Babette are discussing plans… making it the place Rita might want to be for that as well, since she brings up the issue of clothing, and Chara has already thought of that.

In reply to Ben (msg # 105):

OOC: When you say "Entherin and Chara brought all of them," do you mean all of the original group of kids? Rita and Aelasuria agreed that all of them, including those who have been adopted, would be invited to the wedding. Also, six of them are actually not orphans, as they still have families in Lutetia Parisiorum (and therefore, would only live with foster families as opposed to being adopted). Has there been any news on attempts to bring their families to Theoderic's lands?

"Honestly I am not sure where Ovo is although I do know that if circumstances permit he will be here." She smiles at Rita gazing at the Glass fountain and all the lovely lights they had decorated with. "It is. I wish I could see Geneva right now and see how the solstice is going back home."

Laughing with a smiles Aelasuria has a merry twinkle in her eyes. "Oh but he has eyes only for you Rita. I imagine he couldn't have said anything else and been true to his feelings."

If Lady Chara and Enthrin are there Aelasuria takes a few moments to affectionately hug both of them in warm greeting. "It's good to see both of you. I imagine your going to want to go see Theo. Take your time I think it will be good for him!"

She of course takes time to visit with the children although she lets Rita enjoy her moment with them.

When the elves from Geneva join them in the area Aelasuria briefly is whisked away busy with warm greetings and hearing news. "Hello Kalellia! It's good to see you" Kalellia was a childhood friend she had known since she could walk and talk. Unlike her friend had followed more in Salen's footsteps then a path of magic. She preferred a unusual fighting style using a bastard sword. Even two at a time which she found impractical if effective in her hands. She truly thought long swords would be more manageable. Although she thought her friends true calling was with the bow. Her friend had a particularly lovely and potent magical bow. Which she believed her friend had acquired from one of her many suitors although she insisted it was fairly won while exploring ancient ruins on a dangerous adventure. She also has a exquisite suit of leather that might be magical and a very fine cloak that also might be magical. She was particularly lovely with long lovely blond hair, breathtaking sky blue eyes, the classical figure of her kind and flawless skin. Her mother had been in her own way teasing both of them for years playing matchmaker off and on. "Tell me Kalellia have you married yet." Her friends reaction was rather amused as she shakes her head slightly. "No I enjoy my freedom to much. I wouldn't miss yours for the world! You do realize you won't be able to do whatever you want after this. Tell your mother for me I have no plans on settling down for at least another hundred years!"

After talking for a bit they part ways. She talks with several other elves of both genders that are not as close to her however that she knows reasonably well.

(still catching up, sorry if this is in the wrong place)

Alara has been drifting through the past few weeks like something of a spectre. To be on the winning side for once has been a small shock, and she has found that falling back on the old habit of following orders has served her well. It's kept her moving, and in the company of her comrades, but to be celebrating in the aftermath of the war, rather than slinking off for cover and looking for somewhere to earn an honest day's wages, is something she isn't used to.

But it's been a pleasant shock, nonetheless.