Her smiles brightens when Salen winks at her remembering some very fond memories from younger days. Some of which involved riding horses which reminded her briefly of the saddles they would display later while riding. Hopefully in time to aid Cirostis in his sale. Cirrus she notes is loving the experience of the wedding making it likely a very happy moment for her as well.

Gracefully she exchanges Rings with Theo taking a moment to step closer and gaze lovingly into his eyes. She blushes slightly smiling warmly at Theo even as she is aware everyone is watching them. She waits patiently for Rita to bestow the Laurels on them.  Then after her mother pronounces them as Married another lovely smile blossoms as she looks at her husband.

A bit later Aelasuria whispers softly to him with a smile. "Your going to need to get used to having a large family Theo. I imagine Salen will possibly be around more then my father. My sisters will probably try to corner you to talk a bit later as well before they go back to Geneva and other parts. Mother and father will likely want you to come and visit to get to know you in due time. We should invite your mother and grandmother as well for one of the visits."

Seeing Salen arrive just in time to join the Soulwater clan, Rita smiles at him, and their eyes meet. She had adventured with Salen a few months ago and appreciated his sense of humor and playfulness, which always lightened the mood. The only thing missing now is his flying mount, which likely is back in Geneva.

As soon as she takes the laurels in her hand, Rita realizes her mistake. The laurels aren't wedding rings--they are crowns to be placed on Theoderic's and Aelasuria's heads! The custom is beautiful and intriguing, especially in light of the fact that Greek and Roman cultures also crowned people with laurel wreaths though in their cultures the laurels are a symbol of victory. Theoderic and Aelasuria have just won a major battle, so even in Greco-Roman symbolism, the laurels are appropriate.

And she is impressed with Miriam Soulwater's remembering that Rita now serves Proserpina, given all that took place during their visit to Geneva months ago.

After watching the couple exchange rings, she gently places the laurels on their heads, first on Aelasuria's--given that Aelasuria is standing closer to her--and then on Theoderic's. It's as if I'm crowning them, she thinks, honored that she is now forever part of this special wedding. Silently, she offers a prayer of gratitude to both Proserpina and Pluto. I will remember this moment all my life.

She wonders how often the couple will wear the laurels, especially in public.

So much goes through her mind as she completes her small part of the ceremony. Her memories flash back to the visit to Divonantum, to a weakened Entherin, to the sudden revelation that it is the gods who have brought Theoderic and Aelasuria together both for love and for a greater goal--healing the rift between the elves and humans and restoring the Fourth Mark.

Lady Babette is not the only one with tears in her eyes.

When the ceremony is over, at the first chance she gets, she hugs Aelasuria and then, if Aelasuria permits, also hugs Theoderic.

"My heartfelt congratulations to my best friend," she says earnestly to Aelasuria. "Thank you for inviting me to be part of your happiest day. May you both have a long and happy life together reigning as king and queen of Belgica and someday, of all Europa."

She had been relived at the opportunity to have something appropriate to wear. Having packed little more than the peasant skirt and blouse which she had donned back at the cabin.  It was one of those gestures from Heolstor that she did not anticipate, but were becoming less surprising, the more time they spent together.  Of course, word was beginning to run that she was more than only his attending priestess.  And any lord would want the woman he was seen in public with to be proper and presentable.  But, she knew him well enough to know that hadn't been his first motive in buying the gown for her.  With all he carried on his shoulders, he somehow never seemed to lack time or attention to think of her in small but important ways that brought a smile to her lips.

Despite the small amount of time to have a proper fitting done, it had come out alright. And was not an ostentatious affair, which wasn't her pesonality, and would have made her cringe:



The pair were a lovely looking couple -- King and noblewoman; a wizardess of great craft, if she understood right.  And...

Human, and Elf. For Petra Faust, this ceremony and event raised and ran emotions already flowing closer to a torrent.  On the one, everything was so beautiful -- and the couple appeared so beautifully and blissfully in love.  It was like a wedding from out of a fable.  But...

How could she not think of her parents?  The only union of Human and Elf she had known during her young life.  And, naturally, the whole bundle of feelings associated with how their marriage had played out.   Clearly, this was a different sort of relationship.  For all that her mother had prided herself on being Elvish, and carrying the culture with her even in her exile, Anriell Faust wasn't exactly a typical Elf.  Perhaps this Aelasuria wasn't either; Petra didn't know her at all.  But, she seemed to exude a genuine warmth that Anriell had never had.   With her scarlet hair, she was bright and fiery; sharp contrast to Petra's raven-haired and fair-skinned mother, who had always seemed like she belonged in the shadows of a moonlit night.

And her father had loved her so very much. With all of his soul and heart. Would that it had been reciprocated.  But, her mother had married for sanctuary, and not for love.  And had gone once it was no longer needed.  Or, had fled from further pursuit.  Likely, she would never know the truth of the tale.

It was all a little...too much.  The similarity, and the difference, at once.  And, standing here, next the man she was coming to have such feelings for.  And all the questions and uncertainties attached to their own relationship, and what the future might or might not hold.  The feelings stirred within her heart were so very poignant.  In that way that life itself could be; where you weren't quite certain whether the joy and the beauty were the greater, or if the pain and hurt was.  And it seemed nigh impossible to draw a clear line between them.

She shouldn't feel ashamed.  She knew that she should not.  It was common.  Happened a lot.  Women cried at weddings.  People expected it.  Didn't matter that she was a battle-priestess, or that she flew about on a winged steed.

So, she let the tears flow freely down her cheeks. (Not as if she could have stopped them anyway...) And dabbed at them with a handkerchief she'd had the foresight to bring, just in case.   Petra had learnt ranger-craft before she had become a priestess.

And that had taught her to always be prepared.

With the Rings and Laurels, it is official.

Theoderic is at a little of a loss as to what is considered custom here and what isn't; Miriam Soulwater is officiating, so it is an Elven wedding, but he isn't sure about what Elves do.  He works off of his experience, sealing the marriage the way he thinks it ought to be done.  He leans over and with his hands on Aelasuria's shoulders, finds her lips with his, and the audience applauds.

Miriam takes a few steps away and introduces the new huband and wife to the crowd.

But it isn't over.  Raude Parisi steps towards the stage,  There are a few spells known to the priestesses of Venus that could be useful at a moment like this, but she knows better than to use magic on them without clearing it in advance; security is very evident.  Instead... she presents a gift.

She knows the couple... but not the priestess.  She introduces herself.

“I've brought... from Arras... the crown of the queen of the Eastern Franks. “

She pulls a delicate looking gold tiara from a small box.

* * * * * * *

After presenting, Raude Parisi pauses briefly to tell Rita:  “I need to speak to you.  I have come from Arras.  There is news you must here.”

On her way back she takes note of Petra.  Obviously they belong to completely different traditions.  But Raude knows a potential ally when she sees one.

Rita is urged to meet with Raude in the Grand Hall of the Palace of Lucimburic Thread.  For Petra, it is merely an invitation.

* * * * *

Elsewhere in the plaza, Phileas Argentos finds Scolo.

“You're on again, my friend.  The Dwarves will take the stage when Theoderic and Aelasuria are done with it.

There is one more thing to be done immediately following the ceremony--Rita's announcement of her gift to Theoderic and Aelasuria, specifically, the creation of the Belgica Relief Fund for rebuilding the kingdom, helping refugees start new lives, and for anything else the king might need, including paying his troops.

She turns to Lady Babette. "It is time for me to announce my gift, the new fund for Belgica. Everyone is here, and we have the benefit of their goodwill toward the king and queen, the knowledge of our immediate victory, even the spirit of the Solstice. Please allow me to make the announcement now."

Assuming Lady Babbette agrees, Rita addresses the crowd. She is somewhat nervous, not being used to speaking in public other than leading small religious services, but in this case, her faith in the cause enables her to get past any discomfort.

"My name is Rita Duronus. As a good friend to Queen Aelasuria and King Theoderic, and as a priestess of Lady Proserpina and Lord Pluto, I offer as a wedding gift to them the start of a new, special fund, the Belgica Relief Fund, to support the rebuilding of our cities, relief to our refugees, even to pay the soldiers who put their lives on the line in this war. There can be no greater gift to the king and queen than the renewal of their kingdom. I pledge 100 gold pieces to this fund, and I urge everyone who feel so motivated to give whatever you can, no matter how small the amount. I, Lady Babette, and Lady Chara, King Theoderic's mother, will oversee the fund. Give your donation to one of us or to a representative we assign to stay here and take donations during the festivities. We will make sure to have someone here at the Fountain on behalf of the fund. Donations of items instead of money-- supplies, clothing, food, even weapons and armor--are all welcome. This will be an ongoing project, for as long as necessary. Lady Babette will collect donations here in Lucimburic once those of us who are visiting take our leave. You all have my word as a priestess that every item, every coin donated will go toward the king's effort to rebuild his kingdom."

OOC: Not sure if this happens before or after Raude Parisi crowns Aelasuria and tells Rita she needs to speak with her in private.

Rita is genuinely surprised just to see Raude Parisi here, let alone have her bring the crown. She didn't even know there were special, magical crowns for queens; all she knew was there are magical crowns for each of Clovis's sons, and that Raude had been the one who ended up having Theoderic's crown and officially crowning him at the Autumn Equinox.

"Mater Raude," she says deferentially. "I did not know you were here. If I had, I would have deferred to you the honor of crowning King Theoderic and Queen Aelasuria with the laurels."

Ordinarily, she would be eager to hear news from Arras immediately. But this is a special moment, a beautiful once-in-a-lifetime scene, and she does not want to leave. Plus, she had been planning to stay in a prominent position near the fountain to collect the first donations.

"Can the news wait, at least until later today? Aelasuria is my dearest friend. I don't want to leave just yet. I wanted to stay here myself and collect donations to the Fund. If my father's condition is not an emergency, please permit me to stay for now, and I promise, we will talk in a few hours."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:37, Mon 22 Apr 2013.

With Theo her lips quirk into a slight smile as her green eyes meet his with just a touch of shyness. She could tell her wasn't sure what to do and she had a feeling he would kiss her. Then he does and Aelasuria melts into the kiss her eyes drifting closed. When it's over the world seems to come back and her blush darkens slightly. She gazes at him lovingly for a few seconds then turns her attention to her mother.

Aelasuria meets Rita's eyes briefly smiling warmly at her when she places the laurel on her head. Then returns her gaze to Theo as he receives his laurel as well. Smiling she gently returns Rita's hug affectionately then makes a graceful gesture making it clear she doesn't mind if Rita gives Theo a hug. The rest however is up to him of course.

When Raude Parisi approaches she smiles at her accepting the gift. Then gently holds the High priestess of Venus hands in warm greeting. "It's a pleasure to see you Raude. Perhaps later you can visit to talk with my mother and perhaps the rest of us. Mother Raude is the High priestess of Venus and the one who ordained Theo and brought him the crown."

A bit later when Rita makes her announcement Aelasuria looks to Theo speaking softly. "She will make a difference Theo and I think the people will remember her for it." Gently she slips her hand into Theo's preparing to leave the stage as the Dwarven band Diamond hammer would soon arrive. "Perhaps after the entertainment we can go riding for a bit. I imagine dinner will be a very social occasion."

Kyriel gives Aelasuria a hug after Rita. She's still a little worried about the bounty; that means that she'll have to be doubly alert later. The hug she gives Theoderic is a little hesitant; she really doesn't know him outside of working for him. She's not even sure that he'll recognize her like this, and how do you give a hug to king anyway?

Upon hearing Rita's announcement of the fund, she gets out the comb and buckle. "I was going to give these to you as your presents, but I think that somehow they'd end up in the fund." She grins at Aelasuria and King Theoderic and adds with a twinkle in her eye "Besides, I heard somewhere that the land and king are one."

She then puts the items in Rita's hands. "Mater, please take these as a donation."

There is a big reaction to Rita's announcement.  When he gets a chance, Theoderic let's everyone know that anyone in the mind to give a gift would do better to support Rita's fund rather than any wedding gift.

“I have what I need,” he says.  “And now that I have Aelasuria for my wife, I have more than I can possibly deserve.  But there is healing and rebuilding to be done, and families torn apart, and Rita is doing her best to make things right.  This is as good as a cause as their ever was.”

Raude let's Rita know her news isn't ohmigod right this second important.  Just important.  They can meet at any time over in the Grand Hall thread.  Besides, there are people to meet.  As soon as Aelasuria introduces them, Raude starts talking to Miriam.  The two have some very different outlooks, and they are curious about each others' views.

Theoderic and Aelasuria find out that the crowd is not yet ready to let them leave.  There is too much celebration left.

Besides, Aelasuria had promised the local Werelynx singer, Felicity, the chance to sing at the wedding, and she hasn't had a chance yet.  She takes the stage with the Dwarves, giving Cirrus a brief rest.  Lyrandol also volunteers for a brief stint, even though the loud, pounding Dwarf sound is completely opposite his quiet, refined Elven style.  Why not?  These events don't happen often.

Kyriel notes that thus far, nothing serious has gone wrong.  Is it possible that the very tight security was too much for their opponent, who decided to wait for a safer opportunity.


There is so much going on, and every moment, someone wants to talk to Theoderic and Aelasuria.

“I don't think we're going to have time away from this today,” he says.  “Tomorrow.  There'll be time for riding.”

Cirrus finds them after doing a song with the Dwarves, and Lyrandol.

"Lady Babette wants me to let you know that dinner for the wedding party is in the palace dining room.  She said there is no set time, but if you are too late Duke Barstow will probably eat it all."
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:10, Tue 23 Apr 2013.

pm

She nods slightly smiling at Theo as she takes her new tiara off of her head. "Here Rita take this I am sure it will help with the rebuilding and helping those in need." She gives Rita the precious item hoping that it would do far more good then simply being lovely piece of jewelry on her person. She speaks softly to Theo as she listens to Raude talking to her mother. "I hope Raude will understand she likely went through a lot of trouble to bring that to us."

She is perfectly content to stay happily talking with anyone that wishes to talk to  her. She watches Kyriel for a bit then responds to her. "Thank you Kyriel just being here for us is enough of a gift."

Happy to see felicity she briefly gives the Werelynx a affectionate hug. "I missed you Felicity. It's good to see you and I do look forward to hearing you sing again." She also listens to Diamond hammer, Cirrus and of course Lyrandol when he sings. Nodding slightly she stays close to Theo. "I think your right. This celebration is as much for the people as us. I think we will be very busy meeting new people for quite some time. A enjoyable thing I think!"

When Cirrus approaches them Aelasuria perks up very happy to see the young sylph though not sylph. "Thank you Cirrus for letting us know. Theo and I will try to be there before the duke eats everything. Cirrus perhaps you could save something for us if we get delayed!" She teases in a lighthearted good natured tone as well as a look of amusement.

In due time if Tawna and Hakon are still present she makes her way to greet them. "Hello! This is Theo and I am Aelasuria. Congratulations on being named a hero of Lucimburic. I heard some of the people talking as we mingled with everyone.

She definitely stays long enough for the entertainment to run it's course as well as socialize. Eventually though when it's time she will make her way to dinner at the Palace dining room.

OOC: We can do that when the time comes. Will be happy to stay here and respond as needed.

Kyriel's opinion of Theoderic rises even more. That a ruler would make such a comment is a very good sign.

She is both glad and a little dismayed that the assassin hasn't yet put in an appearance. She stays near Aelasuria and the king as they chat with people from the crowd and celebrate. She chatters with the people around her and always seems to be moving this way or that.

When Aelasuria offers to put the crown in the offering, Kyriel looks at her friend. "Are you sure that's wise? The crowns are more than just gold and jewels. They may be magical. But more than that, they are symbols. Right now, symbols are as important as armies."

The ceremony had gone off without a hitch, and now King Theoderic was married to Queen - Queen! - Aelasuria. It might take some people a bit of time to get used to that, but Salen thought otherwise, at least for him. He had become so used to associating his sister with Theoderic that this merely made official what he had come to regard as the norm.

Then Rita made her way to the front of the stage and made the announcement of her gift, a truly worthy cause, and one which did not surprise him in the least, coming from one so wise and thoughtful. What better gift to give, than giving itself? Why-

A gift! Salen froze momentarily, alarmed. In all the to-ing and fro-ing of recent times he had completely forgotten about a gift. But, in that very same instant, Rita provided him with his way out - a donation to the Fund. I left some money for the relief efforts back in Ganda - I wonder if that will count, if I mention it? Likely not! He smiled at his own thoughts, and then it was time for hugging.

He first bowed deeply to the new King and Queen, as etiquette dictated. Then he rose and hugged his new brother-in-law, The King. "Welcome to the family, Your Highness, and my heartfelt congratulations. Tis' too late to back out now!" Then he hugged his little sister, The Queen, and kissed her on the cheek. "Your Majesty," he said, with a wink.

He just had time to hug his mother before she and Raude took up their conversation, and to clasp arms with his father and hug assorted family members, before he managed to find Rita, and give her a hug too. "It has been too long, Rita Duronus! But it gladdens my heart to see you again. We must catch up, if your duties and Riordeg allow you any time to do so! I do have a donation to make to your Fund, after all, for my gift to the King and Queen."

All these hugs and greetings. But...wasn't he forgetting someone? Ah, of course - he had brought a date! Turning quickly about he found Ayren off to the side of the stage and brought her on, despite any objections made (even by her, should she do so) and implications otherwise - he was brother of The Queen now, and figured he could enjoy a little leeway.

And he was just in time to return and hear his sister's latest hare-brained idea - apparently some things just never changed. Some young Elf lass (Kyriel) was already commenting on that surprising decision, he was pleased to note.

"Come now, Aela!" he whispered (a little) harshly, momentarily forgetting etiquette as old habits kicked in. "That is the crown of the Queen of the Eastern Franks, far more a symbol of power and wisdom than a mere bauble. You cannot give it up, under any circumstances. Stick it back on your head quickly, and maybe some of that wisdom will rub off!" He paused for a moment, that grin of his returning. "As Your Majesty wishes, of course. I am but your humble servant, after all." And he bowed once more, the smile never leaving his face.

When he straightened he turned to his date, took her arm in his and introduced her. "And this is Ayren Stargem, lately of Bruxzella, among other places."

And if time and opportunity allow, he will introduce himself to Kyriel. "I do not believe I have had the pleasure. I am Salen Soulwater, of Geneva. You appear to already know my little sister, and have survived to tell the tale, which is most impressive indeed."

Snuffling, and lost in her various reverie and reflection, Petra nearly did not note the Venus-priestess until the woman was right next to her.

She was no little bemused by the offer.  But, very curious.  And not inclined to decline it.

"I am surprised," she said to Heolstor once the ceremony was complete.  "But I think I should go and see what this is.  Unless you've any objection to it; I am sure I am safe enough here." 

Theoderic gives a slightly worried look after Aelasuria contributes the crown.
“I have to agree with Salen,” he says.  “And with Kyriel.  That's not just an ornament, that's a gift from the clerics of Arras.  It shows that they accept you and want you to be not only my wife, but the queen of my kingdom.   And besides... melting it down won't bring Rita much gold, and selling the crown of the queen of the Eastern Franks...  I don't know who would buy it."

Ayren does an uncertain curtsy for Theoderic and Aelasuria.  "I am from the Fourth Ward" she says in Elven, referring to the Fourth Ward of the Kingdom of the Ardennes- the site of the battles they fought with the Huns.

"From Namaco?"  Theoderic asks.

"Oh no, from the forest, nearby.  I am a Stargem."

"That name seems familiar," Theoderic says.

"We live on the edge of our kingdom.  Some of us are Warders.  We see strangers more than most Elves."

Babette shows up, to steer people towards dinner.  Apparently Cirrus didn't get them moving fast enough.  Babette gives Cirrus a consoling pat.  "You have to be more... well... more."

Babette is "more" and begins to herd people in the direction of the palace.

She tells Aelasuria and Theoderic:  "You have our old suite... one of the oldest in the palace, you know, first built for the... Duke.. well, a Werebear Duke long ago.  I should brush up on my history, but it's fine quarters!"

Listening to each of them she nods slightly conceding the point. "We are the symbol Theo I honestly don't feel a crown makes a person a king or a queen. Nor will a title truly make a person a king or queen it is their actions that do. Our unicorn friends now there is a symbol people can not mistake. However since it is important to the people I will keep it."

Smiling she hugs Salen affectionately in return happy to see him. "I see you didn't come to the wedding alone. Will you be staying long or will you be heading out very soon?" Her inquiry was directed as much at him as Ayren. She wonders if there might be another addition to the family in the near future which could possibly be months, years, or even decades. "It's a pleasure to meet you Ayren Stargem." She would have introduced Kyriel however Salen beat her to it. "Oh and Salen is a bit of a flirt so don't take him seriously Kyriel." One tease deserved another as she lightly elbows salen with a playful air about her.

Seeing that Babette has come for them personaly Aelasuria laughs and smiles. "Duty calls Theo we best be off." Slipping her arm into his she walks with Lady Babette going to the palace.

Heavy metal - explosions - dancing wizards and frightening spells that hang from the sky dominate the special effects that build on the show. In the end brilliant fireworks combine with images of mythical creatures battling in the sky and Scolo continues to dance long after the music is gone.

OOC: sorry it's not as detailed I'm swamped at work and home this week.

"Thank you," Rita says to Raude when she says the news can wait. If Rita's father were seriously hurt or sick, Raude would let her know the situation was urgent. She breathes a sigh of relief and prepares to enjoy the performances, especially those by Felicity and Cirrus.

It is a good thing she is staying because Aelasuria and Theoderic are being swarmed with well wishers, and some of them are eager to give a few coins to Rita. She makes sure to thank everyone who donates, no matter how small the amount.

Rita is genuinely touched when Kyriel donates the comb and buckle.

"From the bottom of my heart, thank you," she says earnestly and gives Kyriel a hug. "They should end up in the fund. May the gods forever bless you for your generosity."

Salen heads over to her, and she hugs him back joyously.

"It most certainly has been too long! It gladdens my heart too to see you again, especially at this wonderful moment for your family. Of course I will make time for us to catch up with one another. Riordeg and I have pretty much been on the same missions for the last few months, so I'm sure he has stories to share as well. And I would like to hear of your adventures," she says, smiling.

Somehow, she is not surprised that he is donating to the fund. "Thank you. You have my deepest gratitude for this. I was running around the market with no idea of what sort of gift is befitting a royal couple who also happen to be my good friends. I asked Lady Chara and Lady Babette for help, and it was Lady Chara who suggested they would prefer my blessings more than something tangible. That got me thinking, and I came up with the idea of this fund to help rebuild Belgica."

She is taken by surprise when Aelasuria tries to give her the crown.

"I cannot take that," she says emphatically. "That tiara likely confers magical abilities, if it is anything like the kings' crowns. Mater Raude likely brought it to you for that purpose."

She agrees when Kyriel points out the crowns are important symbols.

"Mater Raude can likely tell us more about both your tiara and the king's crown. It seems she had them with her at the Temple of Venus in Arras for quite a while. She was almost stopped by a demon when she took King Theoderic's crown to him, so there is likely more to these than what we see on the surface. Symbols are very important right now; we need the people to believe in the king and in our cause."

She laughs when Salen jokingly says that some of the crown's wisdom will rub off on Aelasuria.

"Greetings, Lady Ayren," she says when Salen introduces the elf woman to the group.

"Well, there we have it. It is unanimous," she says, a smile lighting up her face when Theoderic agrees that Aelasuria should keep the crown and describes it as a symbol of support from the clerics of Arras.

"You have to let Arras do something right, for a change," she tells Aelasuria, still smiling. "My city owes Europa and both of you that much after signing that awful treaty with the emperor. I do very much appreciate the gesture, Aelasuria--I mean, Queen Aelasuria," she corrects herself. "If you truly want to make a donation, I am sure you can find another object that is worth the same amount of gold as this crown would be if it were an ordinary crown. Only if you want to, of course," she adds hastily.

She laughs when Aelasuria tells Ayren that Salen is "a bit of a flirt." All this time, she had been wondering how she would adjust to her best friend being a queen. But in spite of her new status, Aelasuria is clearly the same kind and at times even silly person she always has been.

She watches the beautiful fireworks, in awe of something unlike anything she has ever experienced with the exception of Scolo's show last night.

"I want to stay and see this, but we cannot miss your wedding dinner," she says. She takes Riordeg's arm, and they follow Theoderic and Aelasuria to the palace dining room.

"I hope Scolo and Melissa make it to the dinner too," she adds, looking toward Scolo to see if Melissa is nearby.

Tanwa is quite pleased to discover that the invitation to the palace dinner is extended to Haakon and her.  She takes a moment to present herself “officially”.
She is a small person, with dark hair and eyebrows and a wiry, slinky look.

“I understand you and the Duke have been friends a long time” she says.  “He's my third Duke, actually, or just the second depending on how you count, and I have served the two before him.. but today was our first public recognition.”

“Our?”  Theoderic asks.

“Wereweasels,” she says.  “We're not always appreciated.”

“I see,” Theoderic says.  “I have heard stories that might explain why not.”

“All true,” Tawna replies.  “Every one of those stories... except the one about the Astonishing Duck of Sapient Wood.  But... if we weren't meant to be what we are, would we be what we are?”

Riordeg naturally follows close by Rita, observing her for clues as to how to behave at an official dinner.  Very fortunately, he learns that the Werebears don't pay much attention to custom.  They have no idea which fork to use either, and Mergyon has long since given up trying to teach them.

Mergyon introduces the chef- they've borrowed him from the Clear Fountain Plaza Tavern this evening, as he thought he needed something up a notch from the regular palace fair.

Kyriel is glad that the others agree with her about the crown. She hopes that Aelasuria will take their advice.

Aelasuria's tall brother speaks to her, and she looks up at him. "I am Kyriel from the Shadowdancer clan. I met Aelasuria a few months ago. We spent some time traveling together but we've had to go our own ways more often than not. I happened to catch a ride here for the wedding." She mock scrutinizes him before whispering to him with a twinkle in her eye "So you're Aelasuria's audacious brother? She's told me a little about you. Must be really hard to outshine Aelasuria and Ali'Cor that way."

The comments about Namaco reminds her. "My clan is in Namaco. What does anyone know about what happened there?"

Then Lady Babette interrupts them with news that dinner is ready. As someone from the street, it's hard to ignore the siren call of food. "That sounds good." She helps Lady Babette move the party to the palace.

She returns Rita's hug. "Mater, I'm glad that I'm able to help."

"I am afraid I haven't heard the stories. I am happy though that you have finally been recognized." She found the mention of the Astonishing Duck of sapient wood although she refrains from asking. She could tell the dinner would be more interesting with Tawna present.

"OH Salen Were-Bears tend to give crushing hugs in greeting. Just thought you should know as a sturdy griffon rider of Geneva you might get one!"   she looks over at Kyriel as they talk about her clan interested in hearing about them. "It's true we often ended up going in different directions."

Haakon stood at Tawna's side and kept schtumm until he did, perhaps disingenuously introduce himself as Tawna's husband.  "I am a dressmaker", he said, "and also a furrier although lately, sometimes with Tawna's help, I have developed a sideline in sacking cities, rescuing slaves, establishing the Vesontio Highway Patrol, slaying dragons and all around knight errantry but without the horses."

A flirt? Me?! Salen puts on his best mock-offended expression at his sister's words, then turns to Ayren with a shake of his head. "Ignore her. She's been Queen of Europe for all of two minutes, and already she's drunk with power. Has no idea what she's saying." He turns back to the Queen with a smile. "I do recall those back-breaking embraces from my previous visit to Lucimburic, but thankyou for the reminder, Aela. I must remember to keep my armour on!"

"Well met then, Kyriel Shadowdancer. We also happened to catch a ride to the wedding, so to speak, though there were certainly no mounts involved - awfully useful to have a High Priestess around when one requires it most." In truth he is deeply grateful to Raude Parisi, otherwise he would surely never have made it. She was coming here anyway, but still, he would make a donation to Venus all the same. If he didn't blow it all in the next week or two, that was.

Oh, but Kyriel had more to add - audacious? Moi?! He turned to Ayren with something of a rueful if still roguish grin. "It appears that all manner of rumour and innuendo has been cast about regarding my otherwise flawless reputation. A truly shocking pattern of events. How does the saying go? Once is chance, twice is coincidence, three times is enemy action? Ah well, some of it might even be false - what is an Elf to do?"

He grinned, and turned back to Kyriel. "Thankyou for the...kind words. I have actually always cast a shadow over my brethren, which is why they're always doing daft things like running off into hiding, or wildly throwing lightning bolts around and becoming Queen of the World - anything for a bit of attention!

As for Namaco, I was among those that fought at the Citadel. We won, though I could not tell you much of the state of the people either there or in the Wards, for I left on a rescue mission shortly after."

At these last words he turned to Ayren, the object of the rescue, and put his arm around her.

"Now, where's the party?"

Babette tries to steer the conversations away from “difficult things” like the war. In her view, it's a day of joy for Theoderic and Aelasuria.  No need to spoil it. She keeps her eye on her husband, Duke Barstow, worried that he will slip  up and start to talk about plans with Theoderic.  She intervenes whenever she thinks he's getting too close.

She cuts off Ayren, too, after just a little bit- When asked about Namaco, Ayren is barely able to tell how most of the the non-fighters among the Elves were scattered into the forest to hide during the battle of Namaco, but she had to stay close because she was a healer. They set up a secret healing camp just south of Namaco, and she remembers being terrified when the Huns reached the city, and she thought they would win.

Babette doesn't let her go further.

“It will upset people,” she says, “and I'm sure Salen wants a break from all that. He was there.  Why don't you tell us about how you came to be an Elven healer?”

“It's part of our old lore,” Ayren says.  “We know plants, and how they can be used to cure and heal and do other things.  Healing is only part of it.”

“Well that's something good,” Babette says.  “And are you.. staying?”

Ayren looks at Salen with uncertainty.  “There is no rush for me to be anywhere else.  My family is glad I am safe.”

“Of course,” Babette replies.  “You haven't known him long, neither have I.  But my experience says the Soulwaters are a remarkable family.”

Music drifts in from outside- the Dwarven band is playing in the Clear Fountain Plaza.

“We have a balcony with a fine view,” Barstow says.  “Whether you want to watch there, or in the plaza, Scolo puts on quite a show, don't you think?”

“Extraordinary,” Aristhandel Soulwater says. It's very different from the magic  I've seen.  Very.. unbounded.  Alive. “

“He is a very unusual wizard,” Theoderic replies.

He says quietly to Aelasuria:  “I just wish I knew exactly what we should do about him.  I told him we would get his village out.  It's not going to be easy.  Him... Melissa... things are complicated.”

"May the gods bless you for it," Rita responds when Kyriel returns her hug and says she is happy to help.

She looks around the table to see if Ali'Cor and Melissa made it. Scolo is obviously still outside performing.

She misses Vagrenk, who really should be here.

She smiles at Riordeg, her eyes twinkling, as he looks to her for clues about how to behave at an official dinner.

"You're the king's cousin," she whispers in his ear lightheartedly, making sure no one else hears. "I would think you would know more about such things than I do. You grew up with him."

Rita is well aware that formality was likely not that important in Raviniacum or Hiricio, especially given that Theoderic was not the son of King Clovis' wife. She had been to a few formal dinners in Arras, mostly gatherings of priests representing the various orders and their families, during holidays. There had never been royalty present at those occasions.

Theoderic's brothers should be here, she thinks but keeps the thought to herself. No need to mar the day with mention of family divisions.

She cannot help laughing out loud when Salen jokes about Aelasuria being "drunk with power after two minutes of being queen.

"I do love your family," she says, amused to Aelasuria. "Salen, the one person who could never be 'drunk with power' is Aelasuria," she adds playfully. "The queen does have a sense of humor, and that is a good thing. It is very different from my family, where everyone is always solemn and serious.

Too bad you didn't bring your griffon with you," she says, turning back to Salen.

Astonishing duck of the sapient wood? Rita has no clue what that is about, and clearly, she is not the only one in the dark. But she too won't ask, knowing that her questions might put her in the center of attention when this day belongs to the bride and groom--actually, the two brides and grooms.

"Rescuing slaves and slaying dragons?" she responds to Haakon. "Those things should earn your kind a reputation as heroes."

Ayren's description of being a healer is intriguing.

"Do you heal using spells and plants or just plants?" she asks when Ayren explains what she does. She looks around the table for Eadoin. "Eadoin is a druid who can cast healing spells but is very well-versed in plant lore and knows how to use them for healing. As a priestess, I would love to learn about healing with plants and herbs. It would be very useful to have access to several methods of healing."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:59, Fri 26 Apr 2013.

"My kind?" asked Haakon, "I agree that Thuringians deserve a reputation for something other than cowardice (or did you mean dressmakers or humans) ... as long as I get to remain cowardly. I don't do heroic because my wife would consider me mad.  The dragon was a young one I shot in the arse and one of the slaves was my cousin."