Kyriel grins at this new person and nods in satisfaction. "Yes, sometimes it pays to hide in plain sight. I don't have your skills at disguise, so I have to rely on more mundane methods of avoiding attention."

Marisol and the other unicorns make their point about the number of people present. "Forgive me, but my job is to help protect Aelasuria and King Theoderic. I didn't know that we would be coming here and disturb you." She backs off a little way to give the unicorns some breathing room.

When Aelasuria takes her hands, she smiles fleetingly. This will probably be the hardest assignment she's had to date. Normally she collects information as a lowly servant, now she'll have to play up the appearance of youth even more.

Once they get into the building, she settles next to Aelasuria. "Your majesty, I'm not certain what you know of the current situation. Do you want me to brief you on what we learned on our trek back to the Academy after defeating Zerova?"

Even here in relative safety, she's alert and is wound as tightly as spring, ready to act in the defense of either Aelasuria or King Theoderic. Trusting her eyes and ears in such occasions has saved her more than once. Now she hopes to put them to use and make sure that nothing happens to Aelasuria and the king.

"I think the best way to proceed is to continue with the plans as they've been laid. However, I recommend that the duke employ whatever counter espionage forces he has to their fullest potential. I will do my best to scout the crowd and act as body guard."

Bryon tried to explain better whom she was. "Majesty I am Bryon Lurvaix of Losana in Helvectia. My parents are Pelius and Simone' Lurvaix considered Nobles by outsiders but Celts are notoriously independant and so they sit on the city councel of elders. We Celts do much differently than your people."

She shrugges at the future Queen's decision on the dress. She tried to answer her addition question. "My ability alters the other person's  features to make them unrecognizable as well. I have encoutered one so changed by infernal powers and his powers were much less subtle than my own. Perhaps a product of the power's  origins. In any case my powers are at your disposal." She says all this while following them indoors.

There is a large open sitting room just to the side of the garden.  It’s been adapted for the “hoofed guests” to come and go, and is open to the garden.

They find a trio of Hybsils sitting on a carpet, admiring paintings on the wall.

”It’s an amazing thing,” Theoderic says, referring to the centaur-like folk who seem part sprite, part deer.  “I hadn’t even thought such creatures existed.  I think the army which has gathered around me now includes every civilized race.  Except the Dragons, of course.  I suppose we are a Dragon short of having representatives of everything.”

”That alone is an accomplishment,” Procyon says.  Despite the Unicorn’s instinctive shyness, Procyon’s sense of duty compelled him to stay with the group.  “There is meaning in that,” the Unicorn says.

He looks at Byron.  "And your magic sounds intriguing as well.  At the moment... we shouldn't make anyone unrecognizable.  There would be misunderstandings.  And despite the warnings, we have nothing reliable yet that can tell us about a threat- only that there is a bounty on our heads.  I am not the first king to have enemies.  It is the nature of the position."

He listens to Kyriel's report, but is not yet ready to make any decisions based on it.

"Hello, I am Aelasuria, this is King Theoderic, Kyriel, Bryon, Cirostis and you have probably already met Procyon." She thought it only polite to greet the Hybsils who were already present and enjoying the paintings.

"Please go ahead Kyriel." She knew Theo could use whatever helpful information he could get. Once the information is shared she nods agreeing with Kyriel and Theo. "Yes we should go about our lives. Do what we need to do and move on. As long as we are alert and people are ready we are doing what we can. Theo I did some shopping and I think some of the were-rat stalls had some rather intriguing items. One such was a magical cube that enables transportation to other places. One side is already attuned to Lucimburic. I plan on hopefully atuning other sides to places like Geniva and Ravinicum if possible. It also leads to at least one muddy city according to the Were-Rats. I wouldn't be surprised if that is where they got some of their treasure. There was also a interesting wand amoungst other things."

Well, I'm glad you two are together. If His Majesty and Her Highness do not wish to make any new security arrangements or react to this threat, I will return to my business. If needed I will be glad to support you further personally or with my troops.

Kyriel briefs King Theoderic on what she knows. "I suspect that the wedding and the celebration around it would be the best time for some of the emperor's agents to make their move. First, you're in a city that you don't really know. While the duke and his men may know the lay of the land, you and Aelasuria don't.

Many, many people are here. Far more than normal. It will be easier to get in and move around.

This would be the best time for them to act. The defeat here has given the emperor a black eye. In order to keep the appearance of strength, he'll need to act against you. And he'll need to act soon. If they are able to find a way to hurt you or Aelasuria here, that would show that they're still a force to be reckoned with. It will undo most, if not all, of the gains that were made here recently.

I think we've seen signs that someone is here already. Ali'Cor and I fought a weird heyna-vulture hybrid on the roof of the Duke's palace. Something like that, here, now? That bodes ill, if you ask me.

I spoke with the Duke and General Texxor about security."

Kyriel turns to Aelasuria. "I'll need a dress that will match yours, but I'll need to be able to slip out of it easily. I'll also need a couple of hand crossbows."

Aelasuria listens to Cirostis and Kyriel in turn nodding slightly.   "Thank you Cirostis. I would be honored to have a dozen or even two dozen of your fine Dwarven warriors helping to support Lucimburics soldiers in ensuring that the wedding is safe. I think the Mergyon, and Duke Bastow have likely assigned people to Myself and Theo. Kyriel will also be close to make certain I am well. Rista as well as Ovo will be more obvious guards for myself and probably Theo. Bryon I suspect will be able to blend in and be less obvious like Kyriel if the two wish to work together."

"That isn't counting any werefolk that are assigned to see to our safety. Perhaps a Were-Weasel, Were-Bear, or even a Were-Wolf depending on what the duke and Mergyon have in mind. I suspect there will be a variety of spell in place to detect evil as one basic example. Again thank you for coming Cirostis. I truly hope your business deals here in Lucimburic meet with great success."

Turning her attention to Kyriel she nods with a smile. "Of course Kyriel anything you need. My parents brought a lovely blue silk dress of elvish design. I am sure we can have something very similar ready for you."

OOC: Could be a good opportunity for Tawna the Were-Weasel to improve her peoples standings yet again.

Bryon smirked since the future queen did not know her very well. "Sweety, I'm a lot of things but subtle isn't among them. I will do what I can but these," She points to her own eyes and then to her breasts, "Tend to draw attention. If I swap places with someone else thats different, then I'm not me I'm them. But you see I have to swap. I could do it to someone unwilling but then that makes things way too complicated. I'd perfer to find someone willing. Anyhow, as I said I will do what I can. I mean really, a wedding for a King no less and an assassination? I haven't had this much excitement in ages."

She stops, "Pardon, I did not mean it like that. Its your lives that are threatened. I dont mean to belittle that. Chaos around my soul you know?"

With a bow Cirrostis takes his leave, it must be getting late - he makes his way to see the entertainment.

Since the signing of the Emperor’s Peace Treaty- more accurately, since word had started to get around that Theoderic hadn’t signed it- his role in the world had changed.

He was the prince.. .now the king.. who had refused the Emperor.  Without any planning on his part, he became the center for a people who were drawn to them like winds into a vortex.  A third of the Human troops he led at Namaco were warriors who had left their homes elsewhere, mostly Gaul, for nothing more than a chance to strike back at the Huns.  They came to him because they had heard:  Theoderic is fighting the Huns.  The opportunity was all they asked.

He was almost getting used to people showing up, seemingly at random, and offering their services.  Almost.  Theoderic did not put a low value on people.  He had to know that Byron understood what she was getting into.

"Why are you putting your powers at our disposal, Byron?" he asks.  "I don't want to disrespect you... but you must know what you would be getting in to.  Quite a few have died in my service.  You're from the Helvetica.. that's on the other side of Burgundy, the Huns have never been a threat there.  Here, there is no glamour, no glory, and I can't offer more than sustenance in pay right now.  It has been a rushed and wearying war, so far, and it will go on.  What is it your are looking for with me?"

Aelasuria had to admit Theo had a point usually someone committed to a dangerous course because of a good reason whatever it might be. Some would do it for gold, others because their homeland, family and lively hoods were threatened, rarer still others because they felt it was right, and some believe it or not for glory so their names would be remembered throughout the ages. Those were just a few they could think off the top of her head.

"I can't be certain Theo, however for Bryon so far she seems to like the danger as well as rare events like our wedding... it's exciting to her. Although I am sure there is more to it then that." At least she hoped so though if not she hoped that Bryon at least made new friends while she traveled with her and many people she knows.

Blushing slightly as Bryon refers to her distracting aspects very frankly she thought her mother would be a touch amused. She always thought her daughter blushed a little to easily. "Yes that's true especially of your eyes. Well in that case perhaps you could aid Kyriel by being the one to catch a persons eyes. If she can work undisturbed easily her job would be easier."

Looking to Theo she continues softly. "Theo they have special entertainment coming up this evening don't they? I would rather not miss that. Perhaps we should get ready for that. I expect Kyriel will be my secret shadow. Rita, Ovo and anyone else that wants to look out for us can keep us company and hopefully enjoy the festivities with us."

OOC: Will stay as needed though I am getting the feeling we are mostly done here. Aside from discovering Bryon's motivations. ^_~ I think Security is being discussed with General Texor the were wolf as well. Certainly will be happy to meet Tawna and Hakon if they show up to help. We really should cut down on threads to help Ben out a bit.

Bryon laughed as if the King had just made a very funny joke. Her laughter might remind one of tinkling bells yet another tell of her heritage. "I want what everyone wants. To be remembered, to make my parents proud, and of course to be surrounded by gorgeous men in need of female companionship. As far as money my parents provided for me. I think it best as well since I expect one or two of your soldiers will be willing to pay for my company."

She threaded her arm into Aelasuria's. "At some point you and I may need to discuss your wedding night sweety since you don't seem all that ahhhh experianced in such things. We should go shopping and choose some dainty frilly things to make you feel femanine. I am sure your mom has told you the hows of things but you may wants some tips from a professional. I think your future husband might appreciate the tips I have for you too."

She playfully bumps the future Queen's hip with her own. "Your right of course I am having a marvelous time. I have enough fey in me to think this sort of thing is fun and enough human to go looking for it. May I come and see these dwarves too? Dwarven men have such marvelous stamina!"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:53, Mon 01 Apr 2013.

Theoderic is concerned that Byron may have a rather naive view of what is ahead of them.  "You are here to become remembered?  To find companionship?  All these things you may find without becoming an enemy of the Huns, and no doubt you know this.  The only thing I can offer is what you will be remembered for.  When the Huns are defeated, it is we who will be the ones who do it.  You have magic, you can change your appearance, you can change the appearance of others.  That is useful.  Not on a battlefield, but in the preparations for the battle.  And there will be battles ahead. Byron, in the past eight months, we have spent most of our time in the field, travelling.  The men who are with me... usually they are covered in dust and dirt and sweat, and the smell of horses.  I need to be certain you know what you are getting into."

In the meantime...

He gives Byron a cold glare when she becomes much too forward with the future queen.  She is still a stranger- they've just met, what does she think she is doing?

“It is the Elven custom that the families prepare their two members for their roles,” Theoderic says.  “I trust Aelasuria's family knows what they are doing, probably more so than mine, as her mother is a priestess.  And we have entertainment to go see, at the Clear Fountain Plaza.  Your service is accepted, but.. do you have lodging?  If not, you should speak to Mergyon, the Majordomo of the palace, and see what he can find for you.”

“Harder times will come, Byron, and sooner than we should wish.  For now, enjoy what Lucimburic has to offer.”

Theoderic goes with Aelasuria to the Clear Fountain Plaza, to see the show.  Rumor has it Cirrus is involved, and Cirrus and Aelasuria have always been close.

Listening to Bryon Aelasuria glances at her when her arm is taken. Then her slight blush goes wine dark at the words that follow. Taken aback she is at a loss for words as her mind catches up to process exactly what Bryon had said in front of everyone present. This gives Theo the chance to speak first.

Taking a moment to regain her composer Aelasuria notes that Bryon is a very forward and friendly person. She had a feeling this was her uncle the satyrs influence to talk so openly of such sensitive subjects. "Thank you for your offer Bryon I know it's meant well. I am afraid I will decline as Theo is correct. Please feel welcome to come with us to the crystal fountain I am sure you will enjoy the entertainment."

OOC: next stop Clear Fountain Plaza!
This message was lightly edited by the player at 02:09, Tue 02 Apr 2013.

She disengages herself from the future queen and goes around front of them. She looks starnly at the King hands akimbo. "Whatever you may think of me I'm no girl. I am a Celtic woman. My people sacked Rome while yours hid in caves. My people took their women into battle with them and the same blood those women had runs in my veins. You may be a King here but in my land you are just a man. Men in my land know better than to cross their women.

My powers do not end in parlor tricks. I can shatter rocks with a word. I can walk on walls. I can release the chaos in my soul as a weapon more deadly than any sword. I have fought infernal servants and sent the running home to their mommies. I am a tempest, an earthquake, the cleansing fire of a lightening strike. Do not treat me as a child. I have every right to fight Huns along side any man, elf, or dwarf in your armies!"

Though her wrath came on quickly it was fleeting and she is herself again in a moment.



Bryon does not argue this. She can tell when lover's wish to be alone. She smiles knowingly. She reaches into her bag and retrievers a carved wooden jewlery box inlaid with caligraphic Celtic Runes.  "My da makes them. It says 'hope' which my da carved the week he found out I was attending a Queen's wedding. Keep hope in your house and all is possible. Its our wedding gift."

She gives it to the future Queen. "I would like us to be friends. I can't help how I am but the one thing about me I'm loyal to the bone. Whatever you need be it magic or advice or just someone to listen to you I am here for you. Both of you.

Now lets go find those dwarves!"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:26, Tue 02 Apr 2013.

Aleasuria nods slightly accepting the gift from Bryon looking her over. She might not be a wizard although she fights very much with magic. Thank you for the Gift Bryon. Your people are proud like the dwarves. They wouldn't like their fighting prowess questioned not in the least."

She pauses for a moment before continuing smiling slightly even though her blush has not yet had time to fade. "I think I understand. My mother is a priestess of a elvish goddess of love. She takes her duties very seriously and has a interesting sense of humor. I trust that we can be friends. Perhaps you should visit the priestesses of Venus while your here. Assuming there are any in the city of Lucimburic."

OOC: Ok this time Next stop Clear fountain plaza!

That night Aelasuria is busy with he dress fittings making sure that everything is perfect for the upcoming wedding. If there is time she visits with Lady Babette mostly just because they are friends. However it also gives her the benefit of being able to discuss any important matters regarding the wedding. Eventually she goes to the baths then sleeps.

In the morning she takes a few moments to present Theo with the gift of the Matching masterwork Saddles she had acquired. "Theo Cirositis let me have these as a gift as he knows I had been searching for a gift for you. He only asks that we ride displaying them openly. If you have time perhaps we can do this before our wedding if not then soon after." Kyriel of course is welcome to come with her as she goes to various places in the palace.

That morning she goes to the baths again taking full advantage of them. Then likely gets caught trying to help with breakfast! Laughing and smiling she behaves allowing them to be served eating lightly though a healthy meal.

She of course Visits Marisol, Spica, Procyon and the other Unicorns. Resting her head against Marisol she hugs her lovingly then will do the same for Spica. Even Procyon gets a loving hug even though she's not as familiar with him. Taking her time she grooms Marisol, then Spica brushing their coats, and tails. She massages their legs and checks their hooves. Due to their magic it's unlikely she will ever find anything wrong. Still it was important to keep up good habits. Horses are not blessed or lucky to be Unicorns!

"It's good to see you again Marisol. I really missed you while you had to be away. Spica you also have been wonderful to me. I hope that all of you have been able to relax and have been happy here in the gardens."

Aelasuria catches up with Theoderic in the garden.  He is grateful that even in the middle of all this, the city and the celebration, Aelasuria still appreciates some quiet moments.  The garden, even though it is winter, is green, and there are birds in the air.  The Unicorns have that effect.  Even one can add some life to a meadow.  A herd of them… and spring comes very early.

He wasn’t expecting the saddles, though.

One of the Unicorns gives a disapproving snort.

Theoderic smiles.  “Not for any of you, silly,” he says to the Unicorn.  “For horses.”  Then he turns back to Aelasuria, takes her in his arms, and gives her a kiss.  “They are magnificent.   I won’t ask where or how.  Lucimburic isn’t known for horses, or gear for horses, and I didn’t see them in the market.  Wait…”

Of course he picked up a gift for her.  But he warns, with a little embarrassment on his face… “I’m sorry, it’s really not as magnificent as the saddles.  Those are the finest leatherwork I’ve seen in years and this.. well this is just something.”

Aelasuria finds a “Bath Set” from the artisans of the Ardennes Elves.  They don’t have bathhouses like she’s seen elsewhere.  They do their bathing in the rivers and lakes and ponds of their natural home, so they have to careful about what they put in it:  no one wants a soapy lake!  So they make special soaps and oils and scents from natural plant materials, that won’t affect the water.  And towels and washcloths, all in a basket of silvery wicker.

But they don’t have that much time together, before a small team of Elves, plus Cirrus, arrives to extract Aelasuria.

”We have a lot of work to do,” Aelasuria’s sister says.  “We have to get you ready.”

Cirrus smiles, and says to  Theoderic.  “Don’t think you’re free, Mergyon is coming for you!”

Kyriel accompanies Aelasuria to the the fittings. Not only does she need to keep an eye on Aelasuria, she also needs to get her own dress fitted. When she has a chance, she tells the seamstress what she wants.

She trusts that Mergyon will take care of King Theoderic.

The previous night Aelasuria would visit with her parents as well enjoying talking with them for a good long while. She also mentions Cirrus to her mother and that she is part sylph. It also concerns her sudden fame due to her amazing talent singing. She asks her to share her wisdom on how to handle things making sure that Cirrus is safe though not smothered. Her mother having experience with raising children amongst other things should prove priceless. That and perhaps speak to cirrus directly if she feels there is need.


Aelasuria smiles at the Unicorns nodding slightly as she speaks softly to the Unicorns as well. "Yes they are meant for horses. I imagine we will get a chance to show them off later."

Snuggling into the hug she melts into the kiss blushing slightly as she remains in the hug for many long moments. She just didn't want to leave the hug anytime soon. Though in due time she will looking at the wonderful gift Theo gave her.  "Oh Theo! Thank you! It's not how magnificent the gift is Theo that is important. It's the thought and love behind the gift given. This is a wonderful gift Theo and I will cherish it. I can't wait to use the bathe set Theo! Unfortunately I have already had my bath this morning. It would have to wait till at least this afternoon or perhaps tomorrow."

She laughs and smiles when Cirrus, family and perhaps a few other elves come for her. Gently she hugs Cirrus close happy to see her. Then hugs her sisters as well greeting all of them warmly. "All right. You certainly didn't waste any time tracking me down. Take care Theo I will see you again soon."

Gracefully she walks out of the Gardens with her Retinue of family and friends.

1. Marisol elects to follow Aelasuria and company.  It's unexpected at first... most Unicorns have no desire to be indoors.  Cirrus looks back at the Unicorn following them along and asks, simply, “Marisol?”

“I think I have a right,” Marisol asks.  “I am her friend as well.”

“It's alright,” one of the Elven girls says,  “We're going to the suite the set up for Theoderic and Aelasuria, we'll get ready there.  It faces the garden,and it's on the ground floor.  I think the Duke and Duchess did that on purpose so Aelasuria could by close to the Unicorns.  “

Rita would know, from attending the secret security meeting, that yes, that was the idea.  Part of it. The other part was, the suite connects to a very nice bath chamber on the level below.  When it came up in the Security Meeting, everyonre realized that there was no better protection than having seven Unicorns staying just outside.

Barstow and Babette have several master bedroom suites in the palace.  Over the course of centuries, sometimes the rulers would want to live in quarters that just didn't match anything the palace had to offer.  So they added.  Babette and Barstow are currently living in the newest addition to the palace, a balconied three story addition at the far southeast corner, perched over the Alzette river.  They prefer the “country” look of that new wing, and the remoteness.  A bear's lodge off in the wilderness.  But this place is much older.  It is a luxurious suite, facing the garden on one side, but with thick velvety curtains for privacy.  Wide stairs lead down to the original palace bath house below- the main reason Babette decided to give this place to the newlyweds.  The whole suite is decorated throughout with very “rustic” primitive looking furniture.  Aelasuria has seen the style here before.  It gives the suite the impression of grotto hidden in the forest.

“After you're married you and Theoderic will move in here,” Cirrus says.  “But for now it's where we can get ready.”

Babette has located a team of quick efficient tailors- Wereshrews.  They are here for last minute fixes, and also, to make sure Kyriel's dress is properly “poofy”.  Being very small in stature, the Wereshrews use small step ladders to go to work.

Cirrus, though, has her own dress- which Chara had thoughtfully packed for the trip here.  It's the one of the dresses Entherin had given them a long time ago, with the protective magic.

Aelasuria gently caresses Along Marisol's neck and Main smiling warmly at her. "Your always welcome Marisol!"

Listening to the elven girl Aelasuria nods with a happy expression clearly liking that choice. "That is a wonderful idea to be near the Unicorns. I should thank Duke Barstow and Lady Babette it will be so nice to be able to easily visit and talk with Marisol, Spica, Procyon and the other Unicorns."

She looks over the suite with avid interest drinking in the rustic furniture, as well as the hidden grotto ambiance. She lightly moves one of the curtains taking in the view outside smiling as she can see the garden as well as whomever might be in it that isn't hidden by some obstructing object or plant. "It's a lovely view. Not only is it close to the garden it's also close to the baths!" A fact that she loves all things considered.

Smiling Aelasuria hugs Cirrus for a long moment then slips back. "Your dress is very lovely Cirrus! Chara chose well I think! I also love Kyriel's dress it looks very well on her. I don't imagine I will see you in a poofy dress very often will I Kyriel." Her green eyes have a merry twinkle in them as she smiles at her friend.

Aelasuria is patient, cooperative and as helpful to the were shrews as possible. Slipping on her elegant blue silk elven style dress. Aelasuria checks herself in the mirror. It tastefully compliments her supple form leaving her shoulders bare. She twirls around to give everyone a look at it from all sides. "It is a strange feeling to be both joyous and a touch nervous at the same time."

Looking at her friends she continues softly her green eyes gazing into first Cirrus's then kyriel's as she asks. "Kyriel, Cirrus do you think Theo is feeling nervous as well?"

That is a question easily answered by Marisol.

"He would put himself in front of any danger for you," the Unicorn says.  "But in truth, he is frightened.  That is why he came to the garden, to find Procyon, because he always values Procyon's advice.  And he is frightened, afraid that he will let you down somehow."

"I cannot imagine him being afraid of anything," Cirrus says.

"Nevertheless, this is why he came to find Procyon." Marisol says.

As the wereshrew tailors get her dress in order, Kyriel puts on a couple of hand crossbows. She needs them to be completely hidden by the sleeves of her new dress. When she has the time, she removes the hair extensions and sets her hair in a style very similar to some of the other elven girls and then subtly applies makeup from her gear to emphasize her eyes. Instead of appearing like a young human servant girl, she now looks like a petite young elven woman. Very different from her normal method of blending into the furniture; hopefully it will be as effective.

She smiles a little bit and giggles slightly at Aelasuria's gentle teasing. "No, up until now I haven't needed to wear anything like this. Do you like it?"

After a quick glance in a mirror she arches an eyebrow. "I wonder what Terrance will think of this dress?"

She's about to respond to Aelasuria's question, but Marisol beats her to it.

Listening to Marisol Aelasuria smiles knowing it was true Theo certainly is brave. It wouldn't be the first time considering he had come to her rescue against the Demon tree! "I remember when he did just that. It was against the demon tree. I had taken out the creatures in the branches of a tree. When suddenly it exploded attacking myself and Marisol. IF he hadn't come to our rescue I am not sure we would have made it. It frankly caught me completely by surprise hiding in the water like that."

She shakes her head with a look of wonder.  "He has nothing to fear it's not in his nature to do such a thing. Honestly I will have to remind him of that. Assuming Procyon hasn't already talked some sense into him."

Smiling at Cirrus she briefly takes her hand giving it a gentle squeeze. "I agree he is brave Cirrus. Though brave is the ability to overcome fear in the face of danger. Only a foolish individual fears nothing which is a important distinction to remember."

Aelasuria takes in Kyriel's new look with appreciation. "Yes I do... I like it very  much Kyriel. It really suits you Kyriel you look truly lovely." A lovely smile blossoms as Aelasuria gives Kyriel a affectionate and confident look. "He will love it and just might be at a loss for words to express himself. You should wear it just for him so that you can enjoy seeing his reaction. I am sure he will appreciate seeing you in it Kyriel."