Kyriel and Rita are both fully aware of The Plan.  There is a villain out there, somewhere.  The whole palace and the Clear Fountain Plaza are under guard and under watch, and Wereweasels are on the prowl on the rooftops, looking for anyone (else) out of place.

Out in the plaza, Haakon and Tawna are receiving their awards... and from there, they will have their own wedding... which will be the "opening act" for the Royal wedding.  But no one outside has been told... and hopefully, the confusion as to what wedding is going on will confuse any villain.

They get ready, but they also wait, until they hear that the stage is ready for them.

This is the first that Kyriel has heard of the demon tree. "More demons? We dealt with Zerova. There was another one that tried to get into the Academy recently. I wonder how many there are aside from the ones that the huns worship."

She flashes Aelasusria a smile. "Thanks. I think he'll like it too, even if it is different from my normal clothes."

Now is probably the best time to prepare for an attack. She gets out a couple of bolts for the hand crossbows and carefully takes the time to coat the tips in the remnants of the crystal spider venom that Riva had given her. Carefully she loads each one and makes sure the safety is on. Having a misfire during the wedding would be a bad thing.

Once that's done, she practices moving in the dress. If necessary she'll use a couple of drops of Terrance's ethereal potion on the shoulders of the dress if it gets in the way. Best to know now if she'll need it.

While they're waiting, she picks up a bundle of flowers. Bridesmaids carry them, don't they? Besides, it will give her something to do with her hands.

She nods slightly her eyes meeting Kyriels and despite the dark topic still Aelasuria smiles. After all this day is her wedding day! "Yes Theo and I have had to slay at least two demons. I think it was three although with all the fighting and time that has passed I don't honestly remember the exact number. The latest were the Ice demons making a way for the Iron soldiers to cross the river."

Looking happy at Kyriel's words Aelasuria's smile brightens. "Good then it makes a excellent gift for you. Perhaps we can get you something else that is also nice yet not quite so poofy." She watches Kyriel practice moving in the dress giving her a occasional tip or two on how to move if being in a dress proves unfamiliar to Kyriel.

Then she thinks of another gift she might be able to give Kyriel if Marisol or Spica is consenting. "Marisol I know that neither you nor Spica are obligated to do so. Do you think that perhaps we could gift Kyriel with the chance to ride a Unicorn just once before we leave Lucimburic? I will understand if you both decline."

“I am sure one of the Unicorns will be happy to bear Kyriel,” Marisol says.  “She has a good heart.  We can see these things."

Kyriel has spent a long time living in the lands of Humans.  And as young as she is, that's most of her memories.  But she does have some scattered recollections of the times when her family, Elven traders, returned to the Ardennes.  Those were happy occasions, when Elves would gather from the villages, to see the things they had brought back from their trading expeditions.

And now and then, like any other Elven girl, Kyriel would play on the fringes of the village.

She's pretty sure she's seen Unicorns before.  Just brief fleeting encounters, long ago, shining white heads watching her from across a meadow, or a flash of white moving between trees in the distance.  But she knows she's seen them.

After endless fussing and adjusting, Aelasuria's small troop of assistants think she is ready to go.  A last round of adjustments... pull that up there... refasten that...

And her sister gives her something of a reprimand.  "Brides do not talk of slaying Demons!" the older Elf says.  "That's hardly good talk for a wedding.  Find something else, please."

"Where do you plan to go after the wedding?" Cirrus suggests.

A servant warns them- time is getting close.

Aelasuria looks happy at the thought it was a precious thing for her to be able to ride a unicorn. If she could she wanted to share it at least once with Kyriel. "Thank you Marisol I truly appreciate that."

Being good she allows everyone to fuss over her doing her best to make it as easy for everyone as possible. Smiling Aelasuria takes a moment to give her sister a loving hug just holding her affectionately for a bit. Then slips back speaking softly with a amused expression. "You have a point I imagine mother will truly enjoy the celebration. She's been waiting for this day for decades I think. I know how she loves to dance and socialize at gatherings. It's to bad the Korrigans and other fey are not here although cities are definitely not their thing. Although I imagine they will be holding their own celebrations in the forests for the solstice."

Looking to Cirrus Aelasuria realizes she's caught up in the moment and really hasn't thought about after the wedding.  "I imagine cirrus that we will be celebrating with family and friends. At first I think the crystal fountain would be a good place to share our celebration with the people of Lucimburic. Although that could be problematic considering certain issues. From there likely the dukes Palace for a more private gathering with family and friends. Including a stop to visit Spica, Marisol whom is present now, as well as the other Unicorns."

When the servant warns them the time is getting close Aelasuria nods slightly. "I would like to greet the Newlyweds although I am afraid unless they stay for I and Theo's wedding we will likely miss them. If your talking about after leaving Luicimburic Cirrus I honestly don't know just yet."

Hearing that the iron soldiers were dealt with certainly cheers Kyriel up. "Good! I was worried about those things." Although the idea that ice demons had been employed to make their trek through swamps possible for them makes her frown. "They tried to think of everything, didn't they?"

The offer of the dress as a gift to her is more than a little surprising and she blushes. "Really, it isn't necessary for you to give me anything. This is your day!"

When she hears Aelasuria ask Marisol about riding, a few vague memories from long ago rise up. "I think I remember seeing unicorns when I was very little."

A tint of red graces her cheeks as she blushes at the idea of riding one of the unicorns. It's tempting, but she doesn't want to draw undue attention to herself. "Thank you. I'm honored, but I really shouldn't. I shouldn't draw attention away from you, Aelasuria."

She gives Aelasuria's sister a hang dog look at the reprimand. "I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking."

Hearing that it's getting close to time, she gets into business mode. Of course, part of that is blending in. Taking a few moments, she helps Aelasuria touch up her makeup. "We should make sure you're ready."

 Lady Babette appears at the door.

“Yoohoo!” She calls out.  “It's time.  We're all going to go out to the garden, and then with the Unicorns to the south delivery entrance because it's easy on the Unicorns and Mergyon said we should.  Anyway, that's where Aelasuria's father and the rest of her family is, and they're going to go as a group to Crystal Fountain Plaza stage because that's where the wedding is.  Except Aelasuria's mother, she'll be waiting at the stage because she will do the wedding thing... I don't know how it is for Elves but I imagine it's not so different.  Don't you all look simply adorable!”

"Is there any order we are supposed to go in?" Cirrus asks.

"I'm sure there is," the Duchess says.  "But I have no idea what it is.  With us.. we just makes up something that feels right."

Aelasuria nods slightly letting Kyriel know at least that it might not be over. "We don't know if we got them all. I believe they sacrificed quality for quantity. Yes the forethought to their planning is cunning. I am not sure if it's the Hun leadership or the powers they worship behind that thinking."

Smiling Aelasuria shakes her head speaking softly while gently taking one of Kyriels hands and giving it a gentle squeeze. "I am not concerned about that besides I will be riding a Unicorn as well unless it's preferred that I walk." She is happy to let Kyriel help her prepare then when Lady Babette arrives she smiles warmly at her.

"It is a family affair and a joyous moment for all who are present. I would prefer if we simply walk as a group. However if you wish it I can be ever so slightly ahead with Kyriel, my sister, cirrus and you as well lady Babette on my right and left just slightly behind if you like. The Unicorns will be with us as well. They can both proceed and follow as they wish. Now if I am riding that changes things only slightly and would still work."

Briefly before they go out she gives everyone a hug one at a time. Starting with Lady Babette, then her sister, Kyriel, Cirrus and anyone else she might have missed! If they Decide to let her ride she slips up on Marisol's or Spica's back as appropriate. Then proceeds with the group. If not she walks gracefully with them one hand Caressing Spica's or Marisol's neck and mane either way.

Kyriel looks to the others for direction on how to proceed when Lady Babette tells them that it's almost time. She's never been involved in a wedding before, and she sure doesn't remember anything about them either. When Aelasuria tells her that she'll be riding one of the unicorns as well, she nods slowly. "Then I will ride with you."

She reaches over to lightly brush the unicorn that's nearest her. "Will you be carrying me? I don't do much riding."

She expresses her thoughts on the iron soldiers. "I would think that they would have used most if not all of them for the initial attack against the Ardennes." She smirked. "They would have expected something like them to have been totally unexpected by my people. Since they were used in a sudden strike, the defenders shouldn't have been able to develop a defense against them quickly enough. Fortunately, that wasn't the case." Realizing that she's treading on dangerous ground (at least according to Aelasuria's sister), she trails off.

Once she's done with helping Aelasuria with her makeup, she helps Cirrus and Rita if they want any help. After that, she grabs the bunch of flowers that she had before. It's not a large bunch; and certainly not large enough to hide a weapon in. Her main reason to be there isn't for her skills with weapons. No; her eyes, ears, and mental outlook are why.

Rita is in the suite with Aelasuria, her family members, and the other bridesmaids. She too has to get her dress fitted and her hair done. Aelasuria had said her mother and sisters were providing the dresses, and Rita hopes hers is in an elven style, as she has come to like that style quite a bit. She has her hair done in an elven style as well.

She would have liked to have been at the plaza for the award ceremony and wedding of Haakon and Tawna, but since the wedding party had to wait here, she watches from a window if there is one facing the plaza. What an amazing crowd there is out there! Such unity among so many different races and peoples. This is the beginning of the new Europa, she strongly believes.

Aelasuria's bath set from the unicorns is lovely. "They know you both well," she says, smiling at Aelasuria.

The thought of baths makes her thinks of Jacquen. "I wish Jacquen were here. She is so much a part of all this." It is still strange speaking of Jacquen as a girl. "Aelasuria, do you have any idea where Jacquen might be?"

Kyriel certainly looks very different as an elven girl in a fancy dress. "You look lovely," she compliments her. "I hope some day you can walk openly among us as an elf without fear. I want to bring Aelasuria to visit Arras, my hometown. I would like it if you came with us. Not now--we have to wait until Arras withdraws from that horrible treaty. I decided months ago that as long as elves are not welcome there, I will not visit, as I do not feel welcome there either."

She takes time to gaze around the room, observing the decor and looking out on the balcony. For a long while, she doesn't say much. This is an emotional day for so many reasons. In her mind, she goes over everything that happened since last March, when she first met Aelasuria. So much has happened. Would Theoderic and Aelasuria have gotten together if Rita had not been involved?

It is now a year that she has been a priestess. And six months since she unexpectedly met a young man who loves her as much as she loves him.

Her thoughts are interrupted when Aelasuria mentions the fight with the demon tree. "I remember that battle well. Marisol saved both of your lives.

There appear to be many demons, unfortunately," she responds to Kyriel. "There were times when Aelasuria and I were separated, and on those missions too, my group fought demons. The war is really a war against demons, not Huns. The Huns are just tools. The demons are the ones manipulating them."

When Aelasuria's sister's says, "brides do not talk of slaying demons," she realizes how inappropriate she is being.

"I am sorry. It is partly my fault. I should not be discussing such matters now either. Though it might make Aelasuria laugh to hear that last summer, I joked to Riordeg that Theoderic should be called 'Prince Demonkiller.' We thought it would be quite amusing if the children started calling him that, but of course, we never said anything of this idea to them. It was just something Riordeg and I found amusing."

As a bridesmaid, she too carries a bouquet.

"You will love riding a unicorn," she says to Kyriel when Marisol approves of the idea. "A group of us rode unicorns last summer from Raviniacum to the elven lands in the Ardennes to visit Entherin. The freedom and joy--it was like nothing I had ever experienced before."

Was that when I first started becoming a devotee of Proserpina? she wonders.

"It doesn't matter to me where in the order you put me," she says to Aelasuria. "I am truly grateful for your sharing this great moment and day with me, with all of us." She gives Aelasuria a hug. "I am so very happy for you--the best friend I've ever had."

Rita cannot quite get a handle on her feelings. She feels more lighthearted, more free, more hopeful, than she can ever remember feeling. That and the excitement of anticipation as the time drew close--the type of excitement discouraged by the order of Pluto. Never in her life would she have imagined even attending a royal wedding, let alone be in the wedding party.

"Aelasuria, if you or the unicorns would like, I can cast protective spells on you, especially the one that creates a magic circle against evil. Just say the word, and I will do it," she promises.

She smiles at Kyriel nodding slightly happy that she would get the chance.  Then looks thoughtful nodding again. "I certainly hope so they are a very dangerous opponent.'

Looking at Rita she shakes her head wishing she could help. "I am afraid not Rita." She gives her a look of sympathy knowing it couldn't be easy for Rita to turn her back on her home. "They made a concession to the Huns because of their power. Hopefully it was only to buy time and they plan on dealing with the Huns in good time. Our vicotories over the Huns no doubt has gotten back to Arras by now. Hopefully this will influnce their thoughts on certain matters."

"Mmm it's probably for the best. I am not sure Theo would be comfortable with such a thing. My Family no doubt will appreciate your efforts on my behalf as I do. You certainly may cast anything you feel is needed Rita."

"Wherever Jacquen is, I hope she is safe," Rita says softly. "I am grateful to King Theoderic for having made the commitment to rescue Jacquen's parents."

If there is one thing that can put a damper on such a special day, it is the thought of Arras making any type of concession to the Huns.

"There was never consensus in Arras for such a concession. I remember hearing the back and forth discussions all the time. Of course, that was before the attack on our temple, when many still doubted that demons were involved. That attack and our victories cannot help but change everything."

The thought of the attacks in Arras reminds her of Pelion. "I wonder if a new high priest has been chosen at the Temple of Pluto. It was supposed to be done at the Solstice, but I guess we won't know for a while."

For a minute, she is confused about just what Theoderic would not be comfortable with.

"He would not be comfortable with what? Protective spells cast on you?

Oh, you mean that 'Prince Demonkiller' thing?" The thought brings a smile to her face. "Don't worry; it was just a joke between me and Riordeg. I think there might be a part of me that is rebelling against the grim and serious environment I grew up in. It's like I purposely think of saying things that would get me in trouble back home. But I am not a child. I have responsibilities to the king, and I know better than to make silly remarks like that, as I would never want to make the king feel uncomfortable.

I am enjoying meeting your family again," she says. "They are most kind and have always been good to me. You are very lucky to have them.

If you do not mind, I will cast the Magic Circle Against Evil on you, just to give you some extra protection at this important moment."

She will cast the spell on Aelasuria right before the wedding party heads out towards the plaza.

"She will be protected, because we are here,” Marisol says to Rita, “but your magic is welcome of course.  More cannot hurt.”

Aelasuria cannot get on Marisol's back until they reach the Delivery Entrance, otherwise she would hit her head on the door frame.

Babette recommends that Kyriel save her attempt at Unicorn riding.  “This moment, no one should obscure the bride,” she says.  “It wouldn't be right.”

She singles out Cirrus.  “You,” she says.  “You take these flowers, go in front.”

At the delivery entrance, they meet up with the male contingent of Aelasuria's family... at least., those who are here.  Leading the group is her father, Aristhandel Soulwater.

He looks at Aelasuria with very mixed emotions- pride, joy, and maybe holding back a desire to ask “Are you sure about this?” one last time.

“Oh, my little Aela, with us such a short time, and now look, a queen “ he says.

And he means it, of course, for as Elves count there lives, Aelasuria is barely out of childhood.  He is a little choked up, considering how quickly things have moved, from his point of view.

They head over to the Clear Fountain Plaza, and that thread.

"Its' possible we might learn quickly Rita the various priests and priestesses have access to divine magic some of it rather potent. Not only that they have the power wealth and prestige can provide. Which means they can call on spell casters such as wizards if they so desire. If they want King Theoderic to receive word very quickly or you Rita if your father desired could find a way."

For a moment Aelasuria can't help but smile as she almost though not quite laughs. "Oh Rita! There is nothing in responsibility that says you can not relax and enjoy our company. I think if it makes someone laugh that this is a good thing. So please feel free to joke once in a while. I did not mean to imply you shouldn't."

She nods slightly speaking softly to Rita. "Thank you I do feel very lucky to have been born into my family. I am glad that your feeling comfortable around them. I don't mind Rita feel free to cast it if you wish."

With Lady Babette she nods slightly deciding to let the Duchess have her desire. Kyriel could always ride later and perhaps it was for the best. She would be more free to act if she was in a familiar situation. Aelasuria smiles gently taking her fathers hands as she looks into his eyes. "I will always be there for you father. Thank you I will have much to learn being a queen. Besides if I have  my way I will talk Theo into frequent visits to our home and my cottage. In fact I acquired a magical item I think that will make this much more possible then before."

She gets out the magical cube showing it to her father. "One side is attuned to Lucimburic so I can return here to visit Duke Bastow and Lady Babette. It is my hope that we can attune another side to our home. As well as one side to where Theo lives. Perhaps father with your greater experience you would have a easier time figuring out how to do this? After the wedding of course." If not she plans on figuring it out herself in due time.

Briefly she hugs her father then smiles heading out to the Clear fountain plaza!

Kyriel smiles and nods when Rita mentions being able to go out openly as an elf. "Thank you. I hope so too, though I've been able to be more open about it of late. Besides, some were able to figure it out anyway." After a moment she shrugs and continues. "However, dressing the way I have previously has let me hide effectively in plain sight. Most people discount the servants, especially young serving girls."

She nods again when Rita comments about the demons but doesn't say anything more. Aelasuria's sister is probably getting exasperated with them talking about demons and politics instead of idle chatter. Mentally she shrugs; whatever they talk about is fine by her.

She still has some misgivings about riding a unicorn to the wedding, but she doesn't want to irritate the unicorns or go against Aelasuria's wishes. Someone riding a unicorn is automatically someone that will be given greater scrutiny than she wants. Fortunately, Lady Babette gives her a reason to decline this time. She vows to do so at some point before she leaves though. While she doesn't know much about temple politics she does have an opinion. "A lot of people have made concessions to the hun to buy time, and it usually hasn't worked out well. I hope this time it's different."

For the time being she holds her tongue on some of the opinions that she had heard on the road. Later, in council she can broach the spin that's being put on Theoderic's actions.

She takes the rearmost position of the maids in the procession.

What would winged horses and unicorns talk about, if they had the chance?

It's not just a “daydreamy” sort of question, as they meet in the garden at the palace of Lucimburic.  They are creatures with certain philosophical similarities, and yet... worlds apart.  Both are beings of magic, and both born with the instinct of “good”, but they have their own ways of finding it.  Winged Horses are above the earth, their great feathery wings seeming to be the wings of angels, and they do seem to be charged by the gods themselves to serve their will.  Unicorns are of the Earth: perhaps nature needed one absolutely untainted and untaintable defender, just to make sure that no one ever compromises too far.

Sky and forest.  To be above, or within.  There is not complete agreement between the two, but there is understanding.  That is remarkable in itself, because Hermod does not speak, at least, not in any language understood by Humans or Elves.  But the Unicorns have no problem understanding him.

The Unicorns can travel the snow covered countryside, of course, and they do not like remaining in Lucimburic, even though Barstow and Babette have done all they can to make the Unicorns comfortable, giving them the palace gardens for their own use, the walls, and the sheer numbers of people, press on them.  Several days after the wedding they leave, except for Spica, Marisol, and Procyon.

These three stay longer into the winter.  As the winter progresses, Marisol increasingly shows the signs of pregnancy.  Unicorn foals are always born in the forest- deep in the forest, in their own sacred groves.  And always in the Spring.  When life is coming back into bloom, that is the time for Unicorns.

“Procyon and I will leave soon,” Marisol tells Aelasuria.  “I know the place already.  It is perfect, and not far from Raviniacum.  It is a notch on a hillside that catches the sunrise.  I know that you want to travel with Theoderic in the spring, and I know it is an important cause... if it were not so, I would ask you to be near.  But soon, there will be a Unicorn foal.  Who knows... maybe soon, you will have a child as well.  It would be nice to introduce them.  Spica will stay here, with you, and she will be the link between Theoderic and you, and the Unicorns.”

Grooming Marisol Aelasuria takes a bit of time listening to see if she can hear Marisol's foal. Listening to her friend she smiles kissing her on the equivalent of her unicorn cheek. "I would love to be there Marisol. Perhaps it might be possible with a bit of magic. We will just have to see now won't we. I assure you if it's in one year or ten our children will be introduced to each other. Thank you for staying as long as you have. I know that all of you probably would have been happier in the deep forest all this time."

She smiles taking a moment to cuddle Felicia as long as her elfin cat is in the mood to be held. "This is Felicia in case I forgot to introduce her before. She's going to be part of the family and perhaps my familiar once she gets old enough."

Marisol has known Elfin Cats for a long, long time.  Noctore and his kin have been in the Fey Forest of Brittany not as long as Unicorns, but a long time.  She has no jealousy watching Aelasuria and Felicia.  Unicorns do not feel such things.  But it does feel nice to be introduced, formally.

Marisol introduced herself to the kitten, even though she knows that Felicia is much too young to understand.

Unicorns do have a very odd relationship with Elfin cats.  They are both rare ad magical beings that live in certain special forests.  Elfin Cats live as long as Elves. As Aelasuria might remember from how Marisol interacted with the Elfin Cats they met, while most Fey folk are very respectful to Unicorns (some even called Marisol “Queen”,)  the Elfin Cats tease and taunt, and they sometimes act as if the entire world was a big ball of yarn, all for their amusement. But it is always with a good nature.  They won’t cause harm, and often, their teasing is a way to get someone to see something in a different way.

“It was Theoderic who suggested the kitten,” Marisol says.  “I don’t know if I was supposed to tell you that, but then, no one said not to.  Theoderic decided on that a long time ago.  He said it would make you happy, and then it was Entherin who located the kitten in need of a home.  It is a kin-kitten of Elyore, the cat we met in the Fourth Mark.”

Between the kitten and the unicorn, Aelasuria can spend a lot of time petting furry friends.

There is also Theoderic, who wants some of her time.  He finds her with her hoofed and pawed companions in the garden.

“We won’t have many more days here,” he says.  He nuzzles her next to her ear.  “We’re going to miss this.  And the palace’s baths are warm and comfortable and we won’t see anything like it for a long time ahead. And.. it will fit two.” 

She smiles At Felicia as well as Marisol glad that they had Marisol had the chance to introduce herself. The elfin cat had a bit of mischievousness in her spirit as did most of her kind. Aelasuria thought she has a bit in common with the elfin cat's desire to be free and independent. She had after all left home for a life of adventure. It would have been so easy to stay home enjoy the noble life. Study inside her tower, find a husband, and settle down without ever leaving the safe walls of her home city. Though she would still do good things in her own way even then.

Mother and father would have been equally happy for her she was confident of that. Although having made her choices she wouldn't give up Marisol, Spica, Procyon, Theo, and of course her friends for the world. "OH I see so he was the one behind this little bundle of life coming into our lives. I should thank him, Entherin, as well as Elyore for entrusting me with a member of her family no matter how distant the blood relation might be."

When Theo arrives she smiles warmly leaning back into him one small hand lifting to caress the back of his hand. His arms were so strong, warm, and comforting which was something she would never get tired of. At his suggestion she blushes slightly her lips quirking up into a smile. "Marisol if you will forgive me I think someone else needs me right now. Can you keep Felicia company please? I am not so certain a cat even a elfin one would like the water!"

Gently she takes Theo's hand her delicate graceful fingers entwining with his. "Shall we go Theo?"

In the time they have for themselves, it is more than physical intimacy.  There are thoughts Theoderic shares with Aelasuria that he speaks of with no one else.

For example... how best to employ those around them.

"Melissa came to me the other day, and pointed out something," he says.  "I put Rita and Titus in charge of watching over her.  But both are gone.  She suggested Eadoin.  It seems strange, doesn't it, a prisoner suggesting who her warden will be.  But she believes I cannot even appear to just pardon her.  She's done too much.  If not Eadoin, though, who?  Scolo likes her, and I need Scolo with us.  His magic is powerful.  And she seems to be a good influence on him."

And then there is the issue of Cirrus.

"Cirrus wants to stay on as messenger.  It's very, very dangerous, I know... Rita would be frantic.  But she wants to help, to be useful and to prove herself.  It's important to her.  And she is the fastest rider... on a horse, at least.  But the risks... it will be harder this time, going into enemy territory instead of defending our own land.  Is Cirrus ready?"

Listening to Theo talking about some of the difficulties they all would have to consider she nods slightly. "Melissa and Scolo make a natural team that are good for each other. Melissa needs someone to care for giving her a good purpose in life possibly for the first time in a long time. Scolo I think is lonely and in need of someone to help guide him towards more rational actions. It's true he's handled the burden for a long time alone. However I think he wants as well as needs that help. So yes I think it's wise to appoint him as her guardian or warden whatever you want to call it Now it might not hurt to ask one other both for their benefit and to satisfy anyone that might give you a hard time about Scolo's suitability to look after her. I suggest a powerful warrior to compliment his magic and her stealthy ways. One of the dwarves or were folk might be Ideal. I would suggest Ovo or Vangrenk however I have no idea where they are now.  We can't have everything though so whatever is best. I certainly respect Eadoin and if he's willing to go I think he will be good. He's a druid and he will care for both the land and the people that need help."

When he talks about cirrus she nods with a look of worry as well. It wouldn't be easy especially if Rita strongly objected to Cirrus presence. Of course there were dangers even in the city if of a different type. "Honestly Theo any time you send someone that's young and inexperienced into a dangerous situation you have to wonder that. Cirrus hasn't had formal training as a warrior, wizard, cleric, ranger or otherwise that I know of. Perhaps it's time that you formally charge her with training so that she will have the skills she needs in case trouble catches up with her."

"With her talent for singing, as well as enjoying attention perhaps a bard or some such could train her. If not a bard Kyriel or someone similarly skilled might be able to give her proper training on how to avoid being found or seen when she doesn't wish to be. If you have any idea's how we can direct her desire to help safely I certain am all ears. Rita would probably suggest that she look after the children back at the orphanage. Certainly a important duty though not what I think cirrus has in mind."

For a long time, Cirrus accepted her position as “one of the kids”.  But she wasn't, and she knew it, and that... and other things... began to drive her towards proving herself as something more.

When Theoderic explains the plan for her, she has mixed emotions.   Theoderic takes Aelasuria's suggestion, that she be trained.  But in what?  Her gifts seem to fall into now pattern he recognizes.   But Aleasuria suggested building on her singing abilties.  He knows only one person who possibly teach music, and survival skills, together.

“You should visit my grandmother,” he says.  “She has an assistant who is a musician.  Lyrandol.”

“We met,” Cirrus says in her soft, high pitched, and uncannily clear voice.  “Several times.  At Entherin's palace, and Raviniacum, and here, playing music.  He is a nice Elf.  He still does not like you as much as he should, but he respects you.”

Theoderic nods.  “The respect is mutual… we could drop you off there on our way to Mos Trajectum.  Maybe he’d agree to teach you.”

But Cirrus has other ideas.  She protests.. softly, but earnestly.  She does not want to be hidden away somewhere safe, not now.

”When this is over,” she says, “and they ask me, ‘where were you?’  I want to know that I did my best.  That’s all.  Let me ride between Mos Trajectum and Belgica, at least.  It will be as safe as anywhere.”

* * * * *

Cirrus is not the only one with such feelings.  There are others.  Soldiers who don’t want to go home to their farms, not just yet.  Even if food will be short, and pay even shorter.

Theoderic talks to a young man from Gaul.  A few months ago, he was escorting the Emperor’s “loot caravan” because he had no other choice.  He has no place to go back to, now.  His weapons and armor are poor, his horse is second rate, and Theoderic is worried.. will he survive?

And there is the crown Raude gave him.  Out of all the clerics of Arras… Raude… the High Priestess of Venus, representing the triumph of passion above all else.. had been the one to support him openly.

This campaign, he would trust to passion more than military doctrines.

Cirrus got her place with Theoderic's group.  The young fighter from Gaul, and a few others like him as well.  They are not all the greatest of warriors, but they are the most eager.

Thinking about it Aelasuria listens to Theo talking with Cirrus taking in her reaction. "I was thinking that you enjoyed singing as well as the reactions of the people who heard you. You enjoy the attention Cirrus one thing you should remember though is that not all attention is good. Some people can be very dangerous as well as being manipulative. They will see your inexperience as well as how you desire the attention. Playing on that could put you in a very dangerous position. However I am getting away from what I meant to say."

"A bard inspires people using music. They can make soldiers brave and fight better then they would with magic. They can instill fear into their opponents amongst other things. They do this by singing and perhaps playing musical instruments. Which I believe you have a talent for. You could also take ranger training would sever a messenger very well. You could be attacked Cirrus. Aside from Huns, there are blackguards, bandits and occasionally some sort of monster even on roads between major cities.  Since your likely alone you need to be prepared to escape or defend yourself as needed. The arts of the bard, the ranger, or both will make you a very effective messenger and more. Although there are other paths you could chose if you desire. We have time to discuss this if you would like privately. I and Theo wish to support you, as well as care about you Cirrus."

Pausing she looks at Theo allowing it to be a joint decision. "Theo if she rides between Mos Trajectum and Belgica can we get someone assigned to at least teach her basic swordsmanship, the bow, and some survival tactics for the wilderness. She can still make her runs but that doesn't mean she can't dedicate some time learning skills that will make her a more effective messenger."

1. Cirrus nods at Aelasuria’s warnings, but has the slight pout of a little girl being scolded.

”I won’t talk to any Blackguards,” she says.

Then she goes into a little more detail, explaining how she is not entirely unfamiliar with the dark side of people.  When she was at Lutetia Parisiorum, she played and sang at the Opera House there, and her best friend danced.  Blackguards didn’t come around the Opera House, preferring less sophisticated entertainment.  And then one of the chief Blackguards, Corrantus, struck up a relationship with one of the musicians.  He and some of the other Blackguards visited the Opera House a few times, and soon… some of the Blackguards decided that the young women there should entertain them in other ways.

This led directly to Cirrus and her friend moving out of the little apartment they shared, and taking up with the Brownies, who hid them.  The Brownies had a few secret passages, and they were able to keep their residence a secret while still allowing them to perform.

But the spurned Blackguard that has his eyes on Cirrus’s friend caught up with her after a show, and killed her.  That was the last straw, and Cirrus, despite loving being able to perform for crowds, went with the Brownies and the children they were hiding when Aelasuria and the others brought them out to Raviniacum.

* * * * * *

As they travel, they learn one more thing about Cirrus:  handling a sword will be a problem for her.  Cirrus's unnaturally light body weight means she has no mass to put behind her movements.  A simple parry sends her spinning around.

"We'll need to find something light enough for her," Theoderic says.

She gives cirrus a gentle hug feeling for her as she is reminded about the darkness in Cirrus's past. "Then you understand all to well why we are concerned for you. My regrets Cirrus I don't mean to bring up such dark memories or give you a hard time. However you have to admit Theo would be very worried even about me if I decided to ride alone during a time of war. I agree fighting is a absolute last resort. It's always best to avoid a battle that you can Cirrus."

She looks distinctly unhappy about the problem with a sword or any other weapon that required sufficient force behind it to be effective. "If only cirrus could take advantage of her power of flight. That would thwart most enemies without that ability to fly once she gets enough distance. It's possible a bow or cross bow would serve as even a dagger to be effective requires power as well as precision and skill behind the strike. Though we can give it a try and see how it works out. If she wants to try her hand at magic that's up to her. What is it that you want to learn Cirrus?"