For Heolstor, Petra, Swift, Aelasuria, Salen, and others who will be involved in the Aquae Granni operation, Theoderic holds a briefing with the basic Geography.

Mos Trajectum has been, for years, the northeast point in Belgica.  It is the home of the youngest of the Dukes of Belgica, Duke Gwalthus.  Gwalthus is heir to a line of Merovingian warrior-leaders, and is actually a second cousin to Theoderic, on his father’s side.  His family was put there precisely because they had a reputation as brave fighters.  Mos Trajectum is home to an important bridge across the Meuse River.   This great stone bridge is part of the main Roman road that connects the northern Rhine River area to Belgica and the west.  The Huns have tried and failed repeatedly, attempting to take the bridge.

The Meuse River has played an important part in defending the city- in fact, the Meuse River Goddess has made her presence known, helping to defeat several Hun attacks.  The most recent battle at the bridge was the battle that saw the defeat of the demon-spawned witch Zerova.

Between the Meuse and Rhine Rivers are a string of towns, most along the road, but one key one off to the side- Aquae Granni.  This is a hot springs temple complex, dedicated to the god Apollo.  The land is mostly flat or low hills, with forest.

The plan has several parts.  Duke Gwalthus’s troops have patrols on the east side of the river, but never far from the bridge.  The Ardennes Elves (from the south, Leudica is one of their towns) also have patrols, and the Huns have patrols.  It will be necessary to slip (or fight) through the patrolled area, and reach the towns, and examine the towns to determine how what the Huns have there, and what can be done to defeat them.  Aquae Grannis is the prize, but Theoderic would not mind liberating several of the other towns in the area… but not too far.  He does not want to take more than his troops can protect in his absence.

A Map of the area.  Mos Trajectum is at the far west.  At the east edge is Colonia Agrippinia, a major city under Hun control.

Distances:  From Mos Trajectum it is 14 miles to Coriovallum, and from Coriovallum it is 19.5 miles to Juliacum.

 

Aelasuria has a seat quietly looking briefly at the others that might be gathered with a quick smile. She was happy to sit in on the strategy meeting, however that was largely Theo's purview. She would wait to perhaps add something after others had a chance to discuss things. At the very least they would have to take Aquae Granis which everyone knew. The question would likely be how many towns would they dare to liberate considering each one would require a proper garrison to protect the people and hold it.

She decides to ask Theo softly since she wasn't familiar with everyone present. "I think Swift will be doing most of the scouting? I can with proper preparation do certain forms of scouting myself if you need it Theo."

Graehl stood to one side, leaning against the wall and seeming to attempt to blend in with whatever shadows were available. He dressing in a plain hooded robe and carried a staff in weathered and scarred hands. He kept his silence for the moment.

A Saxon warrior cloaked in green sat still and mindful as Theoderic explained his operational concept. He sat beside a beautiful woman with hair like molten gold, resplendent where he was grim. Atop the warrior's shoulder perched a crow, mirrored by the raven stitched across Heolstor's leather vest. From where they sat Heolstor did not stir, but for a tapping of one of fingers atop the pommel of his blade.

When Aelasuria broke the silence he followed in, voice curious yet grounded in the weight of what they did."How many of your men do you plan to lead directly to the town? Or are we few to take it and wait for your soldiers to reach us."

"There is risk to the first: of discovery... but also speed, violence of action, and opportunity. The more damage we inflict, both physical and imagined, the greater the doubt we forge in his vassals' minds." Heolstor suggested. "I am no scout by trade... but I know the druidic arts. Petra too can be your eyes, she has her tricks."

Petra nodded in concurrence with Heolstor's words; gladdened he had chosen to endorse this cause. It was the one that resonated most strongly with her. And there was assuredly much worth winning, here.

The necklace of silver sigils that she wore marked her as priestess.  And marked her fealty to the Germanic gods of her northward home, for those literate in such symbology.

After Theoderic had answered Heolstor's queries, she had some of her own:

"This Goddess of the Meuse...can she be communicated with?  Would it be possible to coordinate with her, at all?  Perhaps a river goddess would be sympathetic toward the rescue of a natural spring. Given the association of water." 

"It's been done," Theoderic says, "by those who've had need, and honor the goddess.  As I understand it, she helped at the battle at the bridge, when Zerova was destroyed.  But on the other hand, when the Huns attacked Namaco, which is also on the same river, she... well, maybe there was something.  But not as much as was seen at Mos Trajectum.  Do river goddesses get tired?  What is it you are thinking of?  To cross the river away from the bridge, where the Huns might not notice?"

Then he turns to Heolstor.   "Yes, we have to inflict damage, and it must be painful to them.  The best outcome of this, no matter how many towns we take, is that the lesser warlords complain to the Emperor to come to their aid, and he does not.  But we have to do without the large forces we had before.  As to how many men... well, that's where our scouts come in.  I intend to have the enemy well scouted out from the inside, before hand.  We can get into those towns.  Magic, or scaling the walls, or whatever it takes.  Wooden horse, if we think it will work.  Therefore, we shall be in two groups- one to get inside a town, and one to make the attack from outside.  Those of you who can shape change.. let me know."

Duke Barstow, Duke of Lucimburic and lord of the Werefolk, raises his hand.

Theoderic smiles.  "But you're not going, Barstow."

"I know, I know, but a few of my finest will be.  The battle of Beda whetted their appetites."

"Such beings do indeed have their limits," offered Petra.  "And I would not wish to be presumptious toward this one, nor tax her beyond any of hers.  But, aye; crossing at another locale did cross my mind." She glanced toward Heolstor. "Or, perhaps, some timely interference, of some sort, against the enemy. At a point where we might be near to the Meuse." 

"When we strike we should perhaps take out a lesser warlord or two along the way. If the orc Warlords truly feel their lives are on the line they will be aggressive in demanding what they feel they need. We should also take out any orc that is clearly high ranking of any warlord we intend to leave alive to complain. Plus any that obviously have magic which will help to cripple certain warlords making them feel incredibly vulnerable. Possibly prompting one warlord to attack another. It's just a thought as perhaps the plan simply calls for simply taking out a few warlords and their followers which would also accomplish the goal."

Smiling when Duke Barstow raises his hand speaking softly to him. "You would always be welcome Duke Barstow. Well if we want to do lightning fast strikes and move on perhaps we could have two large contingents of Were folk slowly following behind. They can fortify any towns that we feel we have the strength to hold. We should take ones that will frighten the warlords most and that are reasonable for us to hold. If we cut off and Isolate a few they might panic. I prefer to liberate them all though I know at this time we can't. We could also do a feint making them think we intend to strike a important target when it's not the case. If the warlords send portions of their forces to defend somewhere else they will be more vulnerable where we do hit them. Forcing redeployments of limited forces could be a very effective tactic."

Heolstor smiled, nodding in time to Petra's suggestion. "If this river goddess cannot disguise our passage, that might do. The feint isn't a novel military maneuver - it's been used time and again, because it wins victories."

Duke Barstow's comments were uplifting. "It is good to know, your Grace, that the people of Lucimburic find pride in that battle's ending. We broke the Huns there, but we could not have done so without Texxor and his men along our Southern flank. Never have I fought beside a more ferocious warrior."

Swift has gotten to the breifing a little late but then just listens. She is a scout that will just make sure they are going in the right direction. She sips some wine she brought with her.

During the battle at Mos Trajectum, the River Goddess- Mosanna- helped by providing a dense mist that both healed and concealed.  Theoderic is among those who heard the story.

He's wary about just showing up and begging a favor, though.  Whether it is deserved or not, or whether the River Goddess can do it easily or not, is not the point.  One simply doesn't walk up to a river having assumed the goddess will be helpful.  It's not respectful.

Someone should go in advance, and commune with this being, and see if she is willing to help.

Naturally, Theoderic looks at Petra.  She brought it up.  She's a cleric.  And she has a flying horse.

“There is no one better for this,” he says.

Texxor shuffles in a few of his warriors, and addresses Theoderic.  “You're planning a campaign against the Huns with a small force.  How small a force?”

“As small as I can get away with,” he says,  “If we can find allies among the inhabitants of those towns, so much the better. “

“ But how small a force will you have?”

“I plan no more than a hundred in the field.” the king says.

The Werewolf general does not look happy.  He never does. “ A hundred cannot assault a Hun fortress and win.  They have great numbers.  They threw thousands against Belgica and the Ardennes, but that is only a small fraction of their numbers.”

“I do not plan an assault,  not at first, anywhere.  I plan to break them down into pieces, attacking from the inside.  The idea is not to let it become a pitched battle.  Fight only where I can control the odds.”

Texxor nods, with a “not sure, but I'll go with it” look.  He introduces the group he brought in.  “You asked for a contingent from us.  I have for you  five who have already proven themselves.  Graehl, a priest who was with us during the Beda campaign.  Hector and Vollax, two of my best Werewolf warriors.  Farchis, a Wereboar, and Zernit, a Wererat scout. “

“I think I have met Zernit,” Theoderic says.

“You did.  Apparently the Wererat is impressed.  She volunteered.  Not a common habit for the Wererats. “

Things get more concrete, as plans are made.  Theoderic starts picking out a team that will do the pure "infiltration work" on the temple complex, slipping in, finding out what they can, and what the defenses are.  Naturally, he looks to the stealthier Werefolk, Swift and Zernit.

Swift looks at the king "My lord King, I have no trouble sneaking in as a werefox. I can go in and see who the leaders are and where. And maybe if there are any other ways in."

Petra was surprised at this sudden assignation of duty.  It wasn't that she was not willing -- she was just surprised.  She had no direct experience with Elemental beings.  It seemed more suited for Tugdual, or another high-druid.  Which brought her to wonder where he was...she did not know, and Heolstor had mentioned nothing in particular.

Or perhaps Theoderic's wife, who was a wizardess of no mean skill, if Petra had heard right.

Nonetheless, she accepted and nodded, glancing to Heolstor-- "It should not take long.  Whether I can actually bring her to speak with me, or no." 

"I will do what I can to help. Theo are you thinking about hitting more then one target at once?" She didn't know if he had something like that in mind. Probably not unless he had more then one small independent force.

Aelasuria glances at Petra hopping that she was successful. The river goddess aid was no small thing and truly appreciated when and if it was given.

Heolstor too was taken by surprise by the duty asked of Petra by Theoderic. "I've no doubt you'll see it through better than any other might. Though I would rather you stayed by my side, this seems a vital role." He replied, voice honest and warm - words meant for her alone. The Saxon looked to King Theoderic then, watching and listening to find out what else the Frank intended to lay down in plan.

There is one more thing, of course, and it puts Theoderic's request of Petra into context.

"The battle ahead will be one of speed and wit over Hun force," Theoderic says.  "We're going to do this with a small force, and secrecy is essential.  We already know there was.. and maybe still is.. a spy here in Lucimburic.  We have to slip out in small groups, and take separate paths.  If their resources are limited, they will choose to watch me, over anyone else, so I have to assume I am watched.  I will be the last out, then.  Petra first, so she can see if she can make contact with the Goddess of the Meuse.  Heolstor next, then Salen, and Scolo, each with a team and we will all meet again in Mos Trajectum.  We'll take different routes, and I'm going to give each of you a letter to take to Duke Gwalthus of Mos Trajectum, so he'll know you're with me."

"It's probably a good idea to get ready to go. If we are supposed to lead them astray Theo I am guessing we have someone in mind to catch whoever follows us. That or perhaps a plan on how to lose them when and if it's needed to do so." She glances at Heolstar with a sympathy knowing Theo wouldn't like to be parted from her. Still if it was important they would go their separate ways until they managed to find each other once more.

Each of the leaders here was asked to contribute just a small group of volunteers to the upcoming campaign.  Those who truly wished to participate.

Anakri D’Annaci had brought over 200 Elves to the Ardennes.  Most of them were High Elves- some of the Elves of the Black Forest, veterans of the battle of Cambete and not ready to stop their efforts, joined up.  In fact, they proved themselves tough fighters.  Along the way, at the battles of Tullum and Beda, fifteen lives had been lost.  It is the way of the mystics of the High Elves to see meaning in numbers, even if they can’t exactly be sure of what the meaning is.  So she left with Theoderic fifteen Elven warriors, one for each soul lost along the way, under the command of a chieftain’s son of the Black Forest Elves, Eparo.

The Ardennes Elves sent word that they will match this contingent and then some, but not with the Elves here, who are needed to protect their homes, the Fifth and Sixth wards on the eastern flank of the Ardennes.  Theoderic gets word that they will join up at Namaco.

So Theoderic designates Salen to take charge of the Elves here, and bring them to Namaco, (where Salen helped at the fight for the Citadel) and thence north along the Meuse to Mos Trajectum.

Not surprisingly, Ayren offers to go with him.  Namaco is close to where she lives, after all, and a force like this… you never know when a Healer would be needed.

So the group forms up to depart Lucimburic.  Ayren suggests that they go through Elven territory, at least until they reach the Meuse.

Petra put a hand to Heolstor's cheek, that and her very genuine smile acknowledging him fully without words.   She thanked Aelasuria as well for her offer of aid.  But this was given to be her duty, and so she would do it, understanding its importance.

Her plan was to keep it terribly simple, to begin.  She would hail this goddess of the Meuse and humbly put forth the situation for her consideration.  Perhaps to the river itself, if there was no visible manifestation.  And she would do not more than that initially.   Reckoning that courtesy and honesty might go further than elaborate ritual.

At the proper time, she diverged from the troop, and attempted to find a portion of the Meuse that looked particularly clear, lovely, vibrant, and deep.

Heolstor rallied his the contingent entrusted to him. He requested, personally, that the two werewolves be in this group - he'd been impressed thoroughly by their prowess at Beda. If there were any Burgundians or other human volunteers, Lord Strang would bring them in his party as well.

He gave orders for them to make ready, buy what supplies they required, and meet in the morning. Once all were assembled they'd begin their journey.

Heolstor departs, heading off into a new thread: The Belgica Road in March.

Aelasuria, Swift, Theoderic, and those not yet with any of the other threads, for the moment, hang out in this one.

Theoderic rounds up the last contingent of troops.  He's taken those that truly have their heart in it, valuing commitment above all else.

"Swift, you will have the job of scouting ahead when we get close," he says. "But for a while, we will be traveling in safe country.  The Elves will move us on boats along the Meuse, like before.  But first, we have to get back to Raviniacum, and meet them there.  We have to let Heolstor travel out a few days ahead of us, though, to avoid the appearance of me leaving with a large force.  There is a spy in Lucimburic, we know it, and we may be trailed.  So.. that means that until Raviniacum, we need a scout behind, not ahead."

Swift looks at Theo "So you want me to scout behind while we are in the safe area to see if I can see if anyone is following us. I think that’s a good idea and can't wait to try to catch this spy. I suppose he or she is some kind of rouge with some magic. I would think such a spy would have some way to conceal themselves. Maybe the Fay with me can help me though any magic that might hide a spy"

They finally get going- Theoderic, Aelasuria, Swift, Spica, and Cirrus, and a small team of hand picked troops.  In the first day of travel they cross the south western part of the Duchy.  Swift watches the trail behind them.  This area is very familiar to her- it’s a well settled part of the Duchy, with farms and small villages.  There are also many iron mines in this area, and hard working werebadgers and wereboars turn iron ore into iron, the export of which provides a lot of income to the Duchy.

Swift checks the route behind.  From the Lycanthrope point of view, checking to see if you are being followed is much harder than following.  You can’t sniff out the trail of someone coming up behind you.  Swift is suspicious.  There are several moments that are… maybe.. kind of… what was that?  But nothing turns up.  If someone is back there, it is a very elusive someone, very skilled at stealth.

By the end of the day of travel they reach Longus.  They know this place well, from prior visits.  It is the village with the rustic tavern perched high on the ridge- Longus House.  The village is home to its leader, Viscount Gerraud, and also the nature priestess Fica, who is usually followed around her ferret companion Inkspot.

As they reach the town, Spica the Unicorn confirms that Swift is not paranoid.  There is something out there.  She doesn’t know what it is, or where it is, but it is behind, and following, and it makes the birds afraid.

This worries the Unicorn, because an ordinary rogue or assassin wouldn’t do that.

Somewhere between after the wedding and before they leave Lucimburic Aelasuria makes sure that She and Theo go horseback riding through the city and outside it. Using the matching saddles gifted to them by the dwarves. She hadn't forgotten her promise to let them be displayed. It didn't hurt that she wanted to go riding with Theo as well.

While they travel she thinks about the situation particularly when Spica warns them that they indeed are being followed. By something that likely was either using magic or a few other rather unpleasant possibilities. She speaks softly with Theo sharing her thoughts discreetly in case their follower had ways of listening as well as watching from afar. "Theo we could try to feed the spy  miss information. If you feel it has enough value to even try. Alternatively since we know we are being followed we could attempt to catch our spy and perhaps get information from them. It's possible that whatever is following us could be a demon. It could also be a evil fey, someone with magic, or some type of monster in the service of the Huns. If we have a druid they might be able to learn something from the animals. I could try summoning something that might be able to spot our little spy. Perhaps someone with us is gifted enough to find them. If we try though we risk giving away that we know that something is out there. I don't think it would be wise to send swift back there alone. Especially if whatever is following us notices she disappears for any reason from the group. We could try it though Theo if you think it is worth a try. We might have a better opportunity later."

She also researches her new magical cube trying to learn it's secrets. Eventually Aelasuria hopes to master it so that she could put it to good use.

Once they reach the town she looks around taking in the sights. If she see's Fica and her ferret companion Inkspot she waves giving them a friendly smile. "Will we be staying at the Inn Theo or will we simply continue to travel? IF we plan on just passing through we could stop long enough to see what news they have and share a bit of our own with them."

1) When she gets moments, here and there, Aelasuria examines the cubic she acquired.

It creates portals between the current location of the cube and one of six different places, one tied to each face of the cube.  She has already learned that the portal is about ten feet wide, and stays in place for a few hours- and there seems to be no way to turn it off before it fades out on its own.

Which means she has to be cautious- a portal created is “left open”.

They haven't had time to explore the destinations, and perhaps, if they slowed down, she could do more to figure it out, but thus far she's seen two.

The first one seems to be a wet, muddy city with lots of Halflings!

The second is a city on a river, by a bridge.  But it looks abandoned, and in poor condition.  All she sees are rats.

By the time they reach Longus, Swift and Spica are convinced something is trailing then, but they've seen nothing but an occasional suspicious shadow.  But there are movements, just at the edge of sight, and there are sounds of feet on leaves.  When they turn their heads, and when they pause to look and listen, it stops.

It is the end of a day's travel, here and time to stop.

Fortunately, Longus looks defensible, with a narrow walkway up the steep, high ridge to Longus house.

“I will watch the road,” Spica volunteers.

Theoderic suggests they stay at the inn.  There is no reason to camp out.  Besides, if Spica is right and not just paranoid, it could be safer.  And Theoderic can catch up on any local news.

Fica doesn't seem to be around the tavern.  As they recall, she is frequently to be found at her temple.

She was fascinated by the cubic eager to learn more although like any responsible person she's aware there are dangers involved. So she proceeds with caution not wanting anyone to get hurt! Aelasuria notes which side goes to the Halfling city as well as the one to the abandoned city. Which was likely a very dangerous place because cities didn't become abandoned without a very good reason.

Pausing Aelasuria gives Spica a gentle loving hug speaking to her softly. "Be very careful Spica. Whatever is following us is very good at not being seen. If it is evil though you should sense it's presence if he, she, it, or they get to close. We shouldn't assume we are being followed by just one person."

With Theo she agree feeling there was no point in camping out in the wilderness. That would make them easier to attack or watch not harder. "Whatever is out there probably won't come into town. Not if he, she, it or they know that we know they are out there. I just wonder what sort of something is following us. Oh and Theo If we do have to camp away from a town I can use magic to call up a secure hut."

She continues softly keeping it private to only those that are very close to them at the time. "I also have a magical cube. It opens a portal the only problem is that it stays open for a few hours. It can take us back to Lucimburic. It also opens to a muddy Halfling city and another side goes to what appears to be a abandoned city. It's on a river by a bridge, however it's in poor condition and probably dangerous. People just don't abandon a city without a good reason. We could in theory use it as a trap after all if it want's to follow us it also would have to pass through the portal where we could ambush it. The down side of course is that should it close while we are on the other side we would lose a good bit of travel time. I don't expect us to do that though I wanted to give you the option at least to consider the possibility."

Swift is not sure if the inn is better or not. At least camping out, they know everyone in camp. In the inn, there are strangers around. She looks at Spica "Be careful, I will walk around the inn and see what I can see."

She takes off in fox form to check around the outside of the inn. She looks to see how many ways in there is and if the winodws are large enough to enter though. She hates so many ways in.

(ooc- did she ever pick up any strange scents of the shadowy thing?)

The village of Longus is in two parts.  The “Lower town” lies alongside the Chier River, across a bridge from the road.  It is mostly farm houses, built here where people wanted to be close to their fields.

The ‘Upper town” is built on top of a steep ridge, and the center is Longus House itself. The trail up the ridge switches back and forth and passes below Longus House.  The ridge top location is well suited for defense.

The Chiers river here is shallow, cold and fast.  It is not really much of an obstacle for anything willing to wade.  The ridge, on the other hand, will slow down anyone not on the trail.

The river looks like this:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wi...s_Charency-Vezin.jpg

From up on the ridge, Swift has a good view of the approach.  It is hard to move across the fields and the river without being seen... maybe too hard even for the skilled whatever it is.

And then, just for a few moments, Swift sees something:  something large and humanoid but strangely bulky looking, like a smooth but fat Ogre.  Moving with an ape-like gait, arms swinging wide, it walks from the field into the river.  Swift sees it... colored the exact same dingy brown as the fields.  It is visible in the water... and then its color changes, and it shifts to match the water, even matching the movement of the water.  Moments later, she gets sight of it again, crossing out of the water on their side, and again, changing color to match the surroundings.

A map of Longus and immediate surroundings:
 

Graehl kept to himself on the road for the most part. He had packed light and hunted for his meals rather than relying on rations. As they arrived in Longus, Graehl attached himself to the others. He seemed curious at the talk of the cubic, but kept his questions to himself, as more pressing matters pressed. He kept his eyes peeled for whatever was thought to be on their tail.

Aelasuria stays near Theo and likely Spica waiting for them to decide what to do. Her suggestion might or might not work depending on how determined it was to follow them wherever they went. Course for now they also had the town to worry about.

Swift sneaks back to the others and shakes herself before becoming human again. "Well, I saw some interesting stuff, like a color shifting oger." she tells the group everything she saw. Also saying how it will be very hard to sneak over with out being seen.

Spica sort-of confirms what Swift saw.  The Unicorn didn't get a good look, but felt the presence of something "wrong" in general directions that go along with Swift's observations.

"From the sound of it, it is a supernatural opponent and it can change it's body," Theoderic says.  "But we don't know if it is here to attack or just to follow."

He looks out over the forested slope.  By now, the thing has certainly moved.

"If it is here for battle," he decides, "I don't want to use the Longus House as our battlefield.  It's built for defense, but not against a magical enemy.  It would be wrong to bring this kind of risk to Longus House."

Spica nods.  It is, after all, the kind of thinking her father worked to instill in Theoderic all his life.

There is another voice.  Fica.  The village's young priestess of the forest has arrived, and upon hearing the nature of the problem has put aside other concerns for the moment.  "You can use the temple," she says.  "Diana would favor that.  You have defended Her forest, and she would wish to defend you in return."

"Thank you Fica that is both very brave and generous of you. Let's go Theo whatever it is could arrive here at any time if it's looking for a fight. Spica I hope that you will be comfortable there. I don't want to leave you alone with that monster out here."

Unless someone objects Aelasuria moves quickly with the intent of getting to the temple where they could prepare for whatever might come. "If it comes to it I can also cast secure hut. Though I think the temple will be stronger due to it's divine nature and possible protections that gives."

The group hurries over to Fica’s temple.

It’s modest.  The temple itself is an open air wooden gazebo with a raised floor, perched on the edge of a steep slope.  Eight large wooden columns support the dome like roof.  Around the perimeter is a hedge, and there are several other open air structures- peaked roofs only, supported on posts.  The only actual walled building is Fica’s little cottage, a two room, single story dwelling of stone and wood, with slate shingles for the roof.

As soon as she gets inside the hedge barrier, her little animal companion, Inkspot the ferret, jumps out from a bag she wears, and begins to “patrol” the perimeter.

Fica chants an invocation, and the hedge wall begins to rustle and shift.

”It will not stop a strong attacker,” she warns, “ but it will give us notice, and slow anything down.”

”If it intends to come in,” Theoderic says.  “It may be here just to track us.  If we can find it, somehow, I’d like the settle the issue, though.”

Thus far, Swift has had a hard time tracking their pursuer, because it was doing the following, and she knows it is a lot easier to follow a scent trail when you are the one following.  But her nose is not her only sense.  Fica has lived close enough to the Lycanthropes for years, and she recognizes that Swift is a werefox.

”I can enhance your hearing,” she says.

Cirrus, the slim, pale skinned girl who has slipped into the parallel roles of lady-in-waiting for Aelasuria and royal courier, asks what she can do.

”Get your horse, and prepare to ride out quickly,” Theoderic says.  “If this doesn’t go well for us, warn them at Longus house, and then ride west to the other villages and warn them there, too, as fast as you can, all the way home to Raviniacum.”

”But I can…”  Cirrus starts.

”That is all I want you to do,” Theoderic says.

"A very useful spell fica Thank you." She thought of Eadoin knowing he likely had similar spell if not identical. The plants likely would try to hold and slow anything that tried to pass through them.

It might be a waste however she prepares by casting Mage armor on herself. Then gently takes Cirrus's hand giving it a comforting and supportive squeeze. "Someone has to warn them of danger Cirrus. So that they can send help as well as be prepared for the coming danger should it prove necessary. Which I am sure we all hope that it won't. It's very important cirrus and you are our fastest messenger."

Discreetly she speaks to Cirrus softly keeping it private. "Once your horse is ready if you wish to share a idea you can speak to me privately and I will listen. You can also speak with Theo privately if you feel the need. Just remember you need to be ready to ride if things go badly."

Cirrus heads for her horse, as the rest of the group moves into the temple area.

Swift and Spica have the sharpest senses, and stay alert for any clue that the stealthy, color-changing thing is following.

And then, Spica suddenly focuses towards the southeast, where there is a steep slope down, with dense vegetation.  "There," the Unicorn says.

Moments later, Swift hears sounds of movement in the same direction.  Like a bear, or some other large animal moving through brush.

For the moment she holds her action focusing on trying to determine the creatures exact location. It wouldn't due to simply fire off a destructive spell randomly and hope to strike it. Though she keeps a spell or two in mind that might be helpful once it did show itself. "Fica do you have any flour, oil, or sticky sort of liquid that you can toss. This creature uses stealth which might or might not be used even in combat. Though if we can coat it with something that won't work anymore."

Aelasuria steps back a bit to put a bit more distance between herself and the approach. Theo she knew would be better for any hand to hand. "Be careful if it can use magic or has someone with it that can. It's possible to use sound illusions or others to trick you into thinking it's coming from one direction when it might come from another. It depends on how cunning it is." Still she thought the plants would give it away unless it somehow bypassed that as well. "It would be nice to have one of Rita's protection from evil circles now."

Swift ducks into bush and turns into her fox form. She heads out to see what she can see about what is moving in the bushes. She doesn't want to get too close as a fox doesn't want to take on a bear.

Fica sees Aelasuria casting spells, and hurries to her side to make a request.

”Please, nothing… you know.. .destructive.  The trees here are sacred, and there are animals living in them.  And there are Woodlings.  Even I don’t know when they are around, sometimes, they can be hard to see.”

Swift investigates, heading close for a better view, now in Fox form.  The hedge wall seems tighter and more difficult than it was before, so she has to cross it at the entrance.

As she heads over, she sees it- it changes color and texture rapidly, blending in well, but it can be seen at close range, a some distorted humanoid shape, shaggy and lumpy and awkward looking.  With each step it takes, it seems to absorb the appearance of whatever is around it.  Possibly more than just appearance- behind it, the vegetation looks wilted and weakened, in a trail.

Another creature runs past Swift.  This one is also Humanoid, but shorter than a Human and gangly looking, and made entirely of vegetation, as if someone put together a model of  a Human from wood, vines and leaves.

As it runs, it speaks!  It calls out for Fica, warning her to get away!

Fica cannot see it through the hedge wall, but she knows the voice.  “That’s a Woodling, and it’s scared,” Fica says worriedly.

 

She looks at Fica for a moment almost staring at her. "Fica I am a wizard you do realize this means I am now very limited in what battle spells I can use. We should have known this before picking a place to do battle. If you have any enhancement magic you can cast on a fighter or magic that will ward off evil now is the time." Feeling worried about Theo and the others she knows she can't really help them. Not effectively anyway as it was hard enough to use magic and avoid hitting your friends let alone worrying about every tree, bush and blade of grass. Not that she didn't care about the forest as she did quite a bit being a elf. Spica helps reinforce that as well. Which meant whatever she did cast would be done with care.

She looks at Theo speaking quickly. "Theo I won't be able to use my Magic here freely. I wouldn't want to hit a tree to begin with and Fica has reminded me that they are sacred to her goddess as well. I will do what I can but this one may depend on everyone's fighting skills. At least until we leave the tree's behind that is."

If the monster is close enough that it won't be a total waste she casts her most powerful monster summoning. At least she hopes that whatever she calls will be sufficient to prove helpful in defeating the monster should it attack.

OOC: Go team FAT!

Swift tries to sneak up behind it, watching to see what it does. She is not a killer and just doesn't want to attack something that might be coming to talk. But if it moves to attack, she will change form and attack it.  She wishes she had something to let her know if it was evil.

Swift keeps a careful eye on the thing, as Aelasuria summons a Celestial Lion.

It's not exactly a lion.  It's more like a giant version of the forest cats she knows- one of which is her new pet.

But the strength of the creature she summons surprises her.  The spell didn't seem that powerful. She felt more magic, adding to her own, augmenting the summoning magic here.

The Lion charges after the strange shifting monster and...

it runs.  It puts up a brief fight, and then runs, very quickly, blending into forest as it goes.  The super-charged celestial lion follows, and both are quickly out of sight as they run downhill among the trees.

Theoderic is a little surprised to see the monster flee like that.  That usually doesn't happen, with monster battles, as far as he knows.  But then.. this monster had a purpose, didn't it?

"It's not here to attack us," he says.  "That is a spy.  Here to follow us." 

She was surprised and pleased at the impressive Celestial Lion. Even more surprised when the monster coming their way fled so quickly. "I hadn't intended to chase it off although I think aside from capturing it for questioning or slaying it that is the best outcome we could hope for. Unless you want to mount up and pursue it Theo it appears more then capable of outrunning us."

Pausing she looks worried since swift is out of sight. For the moment at least Aelasuria hasn't the faintest clue where she is or if she is safe. "Where is swift? Is she all right? If the monster wasn't alone it could still be very dangerous."

She looks for swift Concerned for the stealthy companion as well as preparing to mount up if Theo decides to give chase. Which was much less likely as time passes considering how well it blends into the forest.

Swift has a front row seat… a log, more likely… to what transpires in the forest.  She sees the Celestial Lion get in a few good swipes with its claws at the strange color shifting intruder.. or perhaps, color stealing.  Where the claws hit, the creature is covered with patches of golden fur.  But color change or not it is wounded, and flees.   The lion goes after, and Swift loses sight of them.

Spica pursues, able to keep up with ease.  This is a forest, and she is a Unicorn.  But quickly, they are out of sight.

The other creature Spica saw, the humanoid wood-thing, runs up to Fica.  Who knows it by name.

“Acer,” Fica says, “you look hurt, are you okay?”

Fica does a quick explanation.  There is a tribe of strange beings in the forest, called woodlings, who are Humanoid in size and shape but made entirely out of vegetation. Sort of like small Treants.  They are normally shy, reclusive beings, but a few are friends of Fica, because she serves the forest goddess, and they live nearby.

“It touched me, and I felt weak,” Acer says, “It was coming here and I wanted to speak to it, but it would not stop.  I stepped in front of it and it touched me.”

“The lion chased it away,” Theoderic says.  “When Spica gets back she can tell us more.  That was quite a lion.”

“The sacred grove here,” Fica says.  “It can make summoned things stronger.”

With the immediate threat gone, Fica turns to other concerns.  She looks back and forth between Theoderic and Aelasuria, with a troubled expression.

“I want you to know, I wasn’t snubbing anyone,” she says.  “You know, why I wasn’t at the wedding.”

“Wedding?” Acer asks.

“Theirs,” Fica says.  “It’s just that there were things here, I was needed.  I’m always needed.”

“She is needed and helpful,” Acer confirms.

"Is there anything we can do to heal Acer?" Briefly she gives Fica a hug with a gentle expression and a touch of amusement at her concern. "It's fine Fica you have nothing to worry about. I trust there are many people who would have liked to be there that couldn't because of responsibility and duties they had to fulfill."

She appreciated the special nature of the grove it certainly had made a difference in what could have happened. "Theo that monster was sent to spy which means we still have the source problem. Whoever summoned or sent it after us in the first place. I can fly after Spica and just maybe find out who it is and where. As long as your fine with it Theo if so I need to go after them now."

Theoderic looks a little worried.  The strange creature probably isn't any threat to a flying Aelasuria.  If it could fly, he thinks, it would have been flying already.  Still...

And things feel different now.  It was hard enough to see her take risks before.  Now...

"Be safe," he says.  "We don't know what else it can do."

Fica cannot help a slightly sour expression.

"I can take care of Acer," Fica says.  "They come to me for help."

The Woodling nods in agreement.  "She heals plants," Acer says.

"I will be careful Theo. I will use invisibility as a added precaution. I will be back as soon as I can hopefully with good news." Making herself invisible she takes to the air following Spica as best she can. If they could learn more about who was out there perhaps she could give Theo a advantage. They might even get lucky and have a shot at capturing them!

Swift walks out of the woods in her human form looking perfectly fine  "Well, that was interesting. I was thinking of attacking it but if you all wanted to capture it, I didn't want to hurt it. I guess its gone for now." she looks at Theoderic and Aelasuria "I also saw the lion attack it. When it got hit, it had golden fur under its shifting colors.  It did get hurt and the lion chased it away. So now what?"

With Aelasuria above, and Swift and Spica below, they follow the fleeing.. whatever it is... down the slope.  Theoderic tries to keep up, but Swift is too swift.

Being a summoned creature, the Celestial Lion does not stick around long, and it has no fear of battle whatsoever, so it fights the strange shape changer fiercely with every chance it gets.

Spica is on the scene next, and though she doesn't know what it is, she knows it is bad for the forest.  She attacks with her horn.

Aelasuria sees the battle from above, and sees Swift catching up on the ground.

She was more interested in the master then the summoned monster. It was unlikely that she would have more then a second to talk considering the chase. "Don't know if we can subdue it swift! Good luck!"

Seeing that Spica has boldly attacked the creature made her worry for her friend. Hopefully the Celestial lion had weakened it sufficiently that it wasn't a threat. She also knew Spica wouldn't casually attack so there must be good reason.

For the moment Aelasuria circles with a birds eye view trying to see if the monster was still alone. Once she's had a chance to asses the situation she will act depending on what she  finds. If it's nothing she will use a lesser yet effective magic to test the waters. In the past she had found things that magic didn't work on or worse hurt the caster. Casting Magic missile she helps Spica as best she can. She liked the idea of trying to capture it, however she wasn't sure that was possible. It was more likely to fall in battle she thought. Especially since she wasn't willing to risk Spica!

Swift turns back to a fox and chases after the thing. She tries to stay visible to the others as she runs. She tries to make sure she can keep an eye on it but she really can't attack as a fox, well, she could but not to well.

The thing may have certain resistances, but magic missile is a good "all purpose" spell few creatures have protection against.  They also do not harm the forest, which will make the local priestess and woodlings happy.

Swift arrives on the scene and circles around.  Spica is battling a strange, color shifting humanoid thing, and Aelasuria is helping from above.  The Unicorn is not injured, but looks tired anyway.  The Celestial Lion is nowhere to be seen.

The thing apparently copies not only the color but the actual texture of the living things it touches. Or maybe it's not so much copies as steals.  As it battles, it comes into contact with vegetation, which browns and wilts, and the creature changes to match it.  It is like an ever shifting mass of plant.

Swift recognizes those patches of golden fur, now.. but even as she sees, they fade away.



Strangely, it does not seem able to copy the Unicorn.

Theoderic is last to arrive, accompanied by the Woodling, and Fica and Cirrus following behind them.  Once he sees that Spica is in a battle, he does not hesitate for a moment.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:25, Thu 13 June 2013.

"Theo don't let it touch you. Whatever it comes into contact with dies. It's like it drains the life right out of it and transforms into it. See what has happened to the vegetation wherever it stands? Spica seems all right but I am worried about her. Flank it if you can it can't face all directions at once."

She was running low on magic that wouldn't risk harming the forest or people engaged in Melee combat. Which didn't make her happy as the opponent aside from being incredibly stealthy also seemed to be very powerful opponent. That had been no ordinary Celestial lion trying to bring it down. It had been one of her best spells enhanced by the divine favor of the goddess on the holy ground which they had taken refuge. Her hands weave gracefully in arcane gesture lovely blue bolts of magical missles flying from her to strike the monster once more.

Swift tries to see if she can get behind it and strike it with her short sword or is the fight moving around too much. She hopes that will slow it down but wants to strike and fade back, so it can't strike at her.

Swift and Theoderic join the fight, allowing Spica to take a step back and rest a bit.  But the Celestial Lion, the Unicorn, and the magic missiles have already done a lot of damage.  After being hit by Theoderic's sword as well as Swift's, the thing collapses.  It makes a last effort to lunge at Theoderic and grab him, but he evades.

As it falls down into a lump, it turns grey and oozy-looking.

Spica gives it a look of disgust.

Fica and the others catch up.

"What was it?"  Cirrus asks.

Neither Fica nor Theoderic nor Spica knows.

"Something that stole life," Spica says.  "I have never seen one.  Maybe older and wiser folk than us know what this was."

"What do we do with what's left of it?" Fica asks.

Aelasuria gracefully flies in a slow circles before landing near the group in a effort to spot anyone that might have observed the battle. Making a soft sound she grimaces slightly at the remains of the monster. Studying it carefully just in case it's pretending to be dead she tries to figure out what it is.

"It certainly is a disturbing monster isn't it. It could be some form of demon Cirrus. Undead can steal life as well although I don't think I have ever seen one like this if that is what it was."

Stepping back she checks over spica to make certain she's all right. Then uses a cloth to clean anything off of her horn that might have gotten on it or her during the fight with the monster. "I imagine if there is someone suitable close enough we could take it to that person so that it can be studied. Otherwise I suggest burning it to make certain it stays dead. That works in most cases that don't require a special ritual. If anyone can cast speak with dead you could attempt to question it. Rita might or might not have been able to do that."

After a while, seeing no sign of life from the gray mass that was the creature, Fica opts to put the question up to Auguries... to bury or burn the thing?

They leave it where it is, with a Woodling watching over it, just in case.

As they walk back to Fica's temple, she explains the Woodlings.

“I don't know their origin, and maybe they don't know themselves.  But there are a few dozen of them.  They are like people, but made of plant.  Like small Treants. They are calm, and kind, and close to nature.  They are friends of mine.  The Huns tried to force them into service, and they stole a magic cup the Woodlings need, but Rita and Riordeg were able to get it back.”

They get back, and it is getting late.

“Do you want to go back to Longus House?” Fica asks.  “I don't have much room here, but you are welcome to a place on the floor if you want.”

Aelasuria waits to see what Fica's augury suggests willing to follow the advice of a divine power on the subject. Keeping it around could be a mistake as you never know with magic and supernatural beings. Listening to her talking about the woodlings she speaks softly to Theo. "Perhaps we should talk to the woodlings to see if they are doing well. It's possible they might also have useful news of the Huns. Particularly if they are still trying to do things in the area." She will of course let Acer share what she knows if the woodling is still around and willing.

Once they are safely back at Fica's she gathers Felicia into her arms cuddling her for a little while. Her feline companion has her own travel nest/bag to keep her safe. When she wasn't occupying Aelasuria's lap while riding from one destination to another. It would be a while before she could keep up with Unicorns and horses Aelasuria though. Fica, Inkspot this is Felicia my Elfin cat companion. Unless someone feels it's best to take advantage of the holy ground here I think we should go to the Longus house. They have far more room plus the Longus family may expect king Theoderic to take hospitality there."

They head back to the Longus House.

Fica follows along, with Inkspot, both curious about the Elfin Kitten.  They are very rare creatures.  Fica has heard of them, but never seen one.  She tries talking to it, but learns that it is unable to- it is still just a kitten.  It mews.

Back at Longus House, Theoderic finds that Viscount Gerraud, the village's nobleman, is waiting for them.  Some of the other villagers, aware that some kind of "thing" was after Theoderic, went to tell him.

Girraud is greatly relieved to hear that the thing was destroyed- on his own, he does not have any great defense against supernatural attacks, even with Fica helping.  Longus is something of a backwater, and not the home of great heroes.

"It's me they want and not Longus," Theoderic says.  "I have no doubt that if there are more, you will have no danger from them.  It even changed its course, avoiding the village when we went to the temple."

"Even so, we should have a careful watch this night," Girraud says.  "I will have a few men take shifts, around the Longus House."

Fica volunteers to have a few Woodlings help out, too.  One never knows.  Where there was one...

Smiling at Fica and Inkspot whom she thought was adorable in his or her own way. She was happy to let them spend time with Felicia for a bit. She thought it good to let her elfin cat companion meet new and interesting people. One day she would look to her friends education wanting her to have a chance to know not just the world but the people in it. Fey, elves, humans, dwarves and more. That and making sure she had what advantages she could give her for her safety.

"She's a kitten though in a year or three at the most she will be talking just as good or better then you or I Fica. Perhaps in a few years I will come back through or you can visit me and you will get to have that conversation with Felicia. I certainly would enjoy seeing the woodlings again as well as you and Inkspot again." Aelasuria caresses behind Felicia's ears lovingly with a smile as she gazes down at her. Then looks back at Fica and Inkspot continuing softly. "I would invite you to come along with us, however I know your needed here Fica. Thank you for your help and your goddesses against that monster."

She listens to Theo and the Viscount Gerraud discussing the possibility of more monsters and security. "Hopefully whoever is out there won't risk coming again so soon. If something happens we can head for Fica's temple where we made our stand last time. It proved to be a wise choice to defend ourselves there. Thank you Fica we appreciate whatever help you can give. If you want to stay with us tonight your welcome Fica there is safety with so many around. Just in case though I understand if you prefer to stay in your own home."

When there is time later she makes certain Felicia has milk, as well as a bit of chicken depending on her dietary needs. Needless to say she figures out what is both healthy for Felicia and her favorites. Softly she speaks to Spica as well. "I have a feeling you would be more comfortable staying at Fica's holy grove or in the forest. If Fica stays at her home perhaps you could stay near just in case she needs help. Though if your fine with being here your always welcome Spica."

Swift hangs back and just listens. She was not trilled with fighting the thing but at least its dead. Its one more weird thing she has seen on this latest adventure. She sits back and takes a sip of wine.

Reviewing her options, Spica opts to stay in the sacred grove at Fica’s temple this evening.  It is much more of a “unicorn” place than the Longus House, even though, as taverns go, the Longus House is probably among the more unicorn-y.

Aelasuria discovers that when given the choice, Felicia is very happy with a piece of chicken.  A small piece.  Felicia is still a kitten.  Inkspot helps out with the rest.

Fica thanks Aelasuria for the invitation, but she does have her grove and the many things she has to look after here.  There are the Woodlings.  And Longus has no other cleric.  These things are important to her and she cannot give them up.  She isn’t sure of what to make of the invitation to stay with them for the night.

”My home isn’t far,” she says.  “And the Unicorn will be nearby.  I don’t think there is anything to worry about.”

After some wine, Fica decides that if she stays, and has any more wine, she might say do or something embarrassing, so she wishes everyone good night and heads off into the night.

Girraud has his guards set out.  They are hunters who live here in the village, not full time soldiers.  Longus is too small to have any of them.  But they are used to protecting their village.  Girraud makes a request- Longus could use a few good guard dogs.  Human eyes and ears are not the best, but with dogs on watch, nothing could sneak in.

They are left alone that night, and in the morning, Spica returns. It is a good day for traveling, and they quickly start heading east.

”There is a sad side to her,” Spica says of the priestess.  “She did not say much, but I think, there are old feelings that still bother her.”

Aelasuria laughs and smiles happy to watch Inkspot and Felicia enjoying a meal together. "Aren't they both adorable Fica? It's to bad we don't have more time to spend together." A bit later she looks more serious nodding slightly. "I just worry is all. The Huns have a nasty habit of giving anyone that is special to the divine a hard time. They don't seem to like us being in touch with the gods and goddesses. Be safe Fica and perhaps we can enjoy breakfast in the morning before we go. You can say goodbye to Felicia and I can say goodbye to inkspot." Briefly she gently takes Fica's hands in a gesture of friendship.

A bit later she watches her go after having had a bit of wine together. "Theo have you ever had hunting dogs? It seems Girraud wants them for his village. Where would you acquire them? The best hunting dogs would likely come from villages that make hunting their livelihood."

In the morning She spends a bit of time with Theo although as usual she is up early to take care of things. Breakfast and of course Spica. She takes a bit of time Grooming and caring for her. She also takes the time to tend to Felicia's needs. She had her own little nest to sleep in, however if she wished to sleep in the bed as well she's welcome to do so.

When Spica talks about Fica Aelasuria blinks having forgotten that she had feelings for Theo. Shaking her head she felt silly about that! "I am afraid I had forgotten about her feelings for Theo. We have been doing so much in so many places fighting against the Huns and their demons. I wish we could do something for her Spica."

 There was no more alarm in the night, which passed without interruption.  In the morning, they bid Longus fairwell and head west across the land that was, until last year, the whole of Theoderic's domain.  They pass the familiar villages and small towns along the Chiers river, reaching the Meuse river at the craftsmen's town of Sedanensis, and five days later they return to Raviniacum, Theoderic's hometown.

They are greeted happily by the village guards, and then by the staff at the dairy, several Centaurs, Theoderic's mother, and a few of the blink bunnies.

Spica takes a little while to scout around the nearby hills where she knows the other Unicorns are often living.

Once in the village, Theoderic has a mission for Cirrus, which she is enthusiastic about:  ride north into the Elven lands, to his grandmother's home at Divonante, and let them know they are here.

Chara, Theoderic's mothers, tells the group that Eadoin and the strange wizard were here.  There was some kind of strange happening involving the blink bunnies, and a few of them left with the wizard.

Once they arrive Aelasuria takes a little time to greet the village guards as well. Sharing news, asking about their families, and generally about Ravinicum and how everyone is doing. She chats with the dairy staff interested in their lively hoods. Asking about their days as well as the Centaurs. She's curious as to how they have settled in since Theo had set land aside for the Centaur people.

Happily Hugging Theo's mother she smiles warmly at her speaking softly. "Chara I hope you have been well! How have things been for you these past few months? I imagine Rita has been asking about the Orphanage if she had a chance to pass through. I trust the children are doing well?"

OOC: Will stop there. Do we need to switch threads to talk to Eadoin, Scolo, Melissa and whoever else is here? Or should I post talking with them here?

The faces have changed since last year, a little.   The older boys, Payarde and Virgil, both live with new families, although Payarde still lives in Raviniacum.  A few of the girls were adopted as well.  The supply of children at the at village’s orphanage declined to nine with several adoptions, and then rose to eleven as one soldier brought back a pair of youngsters he found after a battle in Belgica.  As the story goes, he had wanted to find their closest relatives, but the little farming hamlet they came from was simply gone, and there was no time, so now the children are here.

Enzo, and the youngest of the original set, Orvi, are still there, though Orvi is no longer the youngest.   Quite remarkably, even with Jaquen gone back to her family, finally reunited, they still sing the songs Jaquen taught them.  The newer children have been taught by the ones here longer.   With Rita gone, Chara acts as head care taker, but Theoderic’s mother has a lot to occupy her attention these days, and she delegates the work to the house servants.  Bernard, the priest of Epona, also does what he can.  The children therefore get a revolving set of adults looking in on them.  Fortunately, a routine has developed, and the older children do a lot of the work looking after the younger ones.

Cirrus spends some time with them as well, of course, being the “senior alumnus” of the group.  She wasn’t as young as the children when they left, but she looked young, and felt and acted young, and wasn’t too clear on her age herself, and so was classified as “one of the children” by Rita.  (Although, ironically, it turned out that Cirrus is actually older than Rita.)

Naturally the children have lots of questions for Aelasuria.  She’s the queen, now.  They are not very clear on what that means, because they’ve only heard of queens in stories, and so they press Aelasuria for explanations.  Especially the little girls.  What is it like to be a queen?  And they know she is married to Theoderic, now… what is that like?  As long as she is with them, she has questions to answer.

Aelasuria smiles Carefully cuddling Felicia in her arms. Introducing her to the children she thought would be a nice treat in their day. Spica of course is welcome to greet them as well. Especially since their are new children. If she happens to be in the area that is. "Hi there. I see a few new faces! This is Felicia a elfin cat. Now I know she's adorable however elfin cats can be particular about being touched. So please be gentle and mindful of how she behaves if you try to pet her. Don't hold her against her will if she wants to go let her wander as she pleases. IN a few years Felicia will actually be able to talk with you!"

Aelasuria will let them be affectionate however keeps a very watcheful eye on things. Just in case one of the children of Felicia needs to be rescued. "Hi Cirrus!" She is happy to see Cirrus spending time with them. They were in a sense part of her family or at least friends depending on how she viewed the orphanage and the children who lived there with her for a time.

Laughing and smiling she takes a few moments to give them hugs when they ask about what it's like to be queen. "Well it's not all fun and games. Not like when as a child I pretended to be a princess or a queen. There is a lot of responsibility as we need to care for our people. The lands that our people live in and even our neighbors because their safety and good will is ours safety and good will. Now it can have nice things like huge hot baths to enjoy, lovely clothing, and yummy food. Though we must never forget the important things such as family, friends and as I mentioned earlier our people."

She thinks about it speaking softly to them with a smiles. "Theo is a good man and that's more important then the fact he is a king. I love him and we are both happy. Unlike a lot of families we travel a lot because of what is going on in the world. However in time we will settle down and not have to travel quite so much. Although I do enjoy seeing the world and meeting new people. He's a brave, kind, intelligent and most importantly very thoughtful about me and the people of this land."

She answers questions as best she can however she encourages them to enjoy their lives. Growing up will happen in due time and paitence is best. For now is the time to have fun, learn and someday chose a livelyhood that will provied for them. That and hopefully make them happy! Aelasuria tries to learn about them while they talk. What are the childrens hopes and dreams? What do they like, what are they good at, and what do they hope to be when they grow up. Her thoughts are perhaps she can makes sure they are provided for. With any luck get the skills to be both successful and happy in ravinicum or wherever they go should they chose to leave.

Swift follows along, just watching and listening. She is not much of a talker and lets others do it. She just likes to learn what she can to her benefit.  She moves around as the King and the others mingle, trying not to draw attention to herself as she listens to others, trying to pick up anything of interest.

Meanwhile...

Chara moves Swift into the room in the main house previously used as "Temporary women's quarters".

It doesn't take much effort.

"Aelasuria won't be staying here anymore," she says.  "It's you and Cirrus, and Cirrus is leaving soon, I've heard.  Funny..."

Chara looks around the room with a little touch of sadness.

"For a while, so much life here.  Aelasuria and Rita and Cirrus... But they never collected much.  There's nothing on the walls that made this place a home.  They didn't stay long enough, always had something else to do.  You need something, I think, to truly feel a place is yours.  Some touch of your own.  I hope Aelasuria adds that, now.  I guess this place won't ever be their permanent home.  You can't run a kingdom from a little village like this.  But it should be one of their homes.  And so she must make it one of her homes."

* * * * * *

The children's hopes for the future have changed somewhat.  They've gotten a little less paranoid- at first, most of it was "I don't want the Huns to catch us and eat us!" but now, they actually see a future without Huns in it.  Aelasuria finds herself something of a role model for the little girls.  Wizardry, Unicorn, Queen... that sounds like an exciting life!  They tell Aelasuria that the Unicorn Procyon has in fact been training young women in the forest.

The little boys, for their part, see one exciting possibility for their future:  to be in the Cavalry with big warhorses.  There are a couple who have more interest in becoming a successful craftsman or farmer, (Because the cleric of Epona, Bernard, keeps telling them how very important this is) but to the average preteen boy here, the cavalry holds the key positions in their imagination.


* * * * *

They have a group dinner, which Chara and the house staff prepare happily like back in the busy summer days.

She is happy to let them meet Procyon if it's reasonable to go visit him and the other unicorns. With the boys she suggests that they take the time to meet and befriend the centaurs. Letting them know they are both brave and wise particularly Eadoin, a druid who has faced the dangers a calvary man might. While it's true it is a honorable profession it's also dangerous. She lets them have their dreams it's just she wants them to keep a open mind and consider more then one path as they have time. IF the opportunity is available she will introduce them. She also thought a little of Apple blossoms no nonsense wisdom wouldn't hurt either.

Later she mentions it to Theo speaking softly. "Theo a lot of the children are enamored of the thought of being calvary men. I won't discourage them though we both know war is not a pleasant thing. I think they respect you and you can see their perspective better then I having been a boy growing up in human lands. Perhaps before we leave you can take a little time to talk with them too. I thought having them talk with the centaurs would be a good experience so I wanted you to know about that too."

She pauses for a bit giving Theo plenty of time to digest that. Then continues softly addressing another matter that would have to become official sooner or later. "Theo know that you are king we will need to eventually decide officially where you will want to hold court. Where we will live and I want you to know I am happy to live in Ravinicum. It's close to your grandmother and I think that would make your mother happy. If not there where do you think would be a good place? Would you feel comfortable asking you mother to come live with us in your new home if that turns out to be the case? There is no rush unless some sort of problem comes up that forces our hands."

Later at Dinner she is happy to help unless shooed out of the kitchen. Spending time with Chara she will talk with her sharing stories of their travels and generally what is going on in the world. She of course asks about Ravinicum and Chara's mother as they likely have been talking now that things have gotten better.

Sitting at the table she eats quietly Listening to whatever conversation might be going on. She keeps half a eye on cirrus thinking of her as family. She wouldn't mention anything to Chara about the possibility of living together until things were sorted out with Theo. Being his happiness, Chara's, and his grandmothers was foremost in her mind on that subject. Plus she would miss Chara if she wasn't around! Though she understood completely if it turns out Chara would prefer not to leave her home and Theo felt they couldn't hold court in Ravinicum.

Swift grins at Chara  I don't mind being alone. As far as a home, it is what you make it. I have always been a wander, so I don't care much for a lot of stuff. IF I can't carry, I don't tend to take it. I keep what is special to me close. I think they just have to keep something special them close and make where ever their home."

Chara sighs, and tells Swift:  "You have a home here, when you need it.  Theoderic would never turn out those who help him.  I think, wandering or not, everyone needs a place that is theirs, sooner or later."

She goes about settling Swift into the "women's room".  Even if it is only for a short stay.

* * * * * * *

Elsewhere...

“It always lightens my heart, the way you’re always worried about everyone else,” Theoderic tells Aelasuria.  “You are the conscience of this kingdom.  You will always keep me thinking about how to take care of the people here.  Let's see about the children and the Centaurs.  We can think about the court later... but I don't see it here.  It would bring too much to Raviniacum, and I would rather see it stay just as the little forest village it has always been.  Well.. with Centaurs, now.  We can have more than one home, though."

* * * * *

Theoderic thinks it is an interesting idea to introduce some of the children to the Centaurs, if only to broaden their experiences.  Apple Blossom, the hard working mistress of the vegetable field, is the natural bridge for this.

There is a little confusion on the part of the Centaurs:  Are we supposed to teach them?

Theoderic tells the:  "Yes.  About Centaurs.  The more they know, the better off everyone will be."

They also take some time to speak to the Unicorns, but when they find Procyon, he seems more cautious and aloof than he usually is.

He and Marisol are going to be parents, soon.  It is a private thing for Unicorns- they retreat to special places hidden in the forest, and they do not share this with others, even their friends.  Unicorns keep their private lives very private.

Cirrus, meanwhile, journeys up to Divonante, as Theoderic asked her too, with word of their arrival.

Smiling Aelasuria takes a few moments just to hug Theo for a little while. "Thank you Theo. I know you think about the Kingdom and everyone in it. It's just you have to worry about all the strategy, military details and many other things as well. Yes that is my hope to have more then one home as well. That's why I acquired this magical cube. It's my hope that it will be able to get us back and forth from Lucimburic so we can visit Duke Bastow and Lady Babette often. As well as your grandmother in the mark, Chara here in Ravinicum and of course my Family in Geneva. I just have to learn how to reset the sides of the cube if it's possible. Aside from Lucimburic it will take us to a abandoned city that is probably dangerous. Though it likely also has treasure and who knows maybe it's near something important to the Huns. Though I doubt we will go there unless you feel we have free time to take a peek."

With the centaurs Aelasuria is happy to see apple blossom and will greet Eadoin if he happens to be there. "It's a pleasure to see you Appleblossom. Thank you for setting aside the time to see the children. Yes I think it's a good thing for them to know about Centaurs. Perhaps even making friends which will last for all their life time. If you would like to teach them more then just your ways that would be fine too. I know centaurs respect the land like the elves do." Felicia is of course with her and she lets Appleblossom spend a little time with her if she is so inclined.

She is very happy to see Procyon giving him a gentle affectionate hug. "Tell Marisol I miss her very much. Eventually when it's time and your both comfortable with it Procyon I would love to meet your child. Also I would like you to meet Felicia. She is a elfin cat and should learn to talk in a few years. I know you need you and Marisol need your privacy, however if there is anything at all we can do for you please don't hesitate to ask." Gently she cradles Felicia happy to introduce her to Procyon.

"Maybe we should explore the cube," Theoderic suggests, "or... we have plenty of help.  We could organize 'cube missions' from a home base.  But not yet.  Later.  There are the Huns, right now.  Everyone should be headed towards Mos Trajectum by now."

Eadoin and Scolo are already gone- that was part of the plan, to spread everyone out in time and space so that any spies would not see just how big a force is concentrating at Mos Trajectum.  Theoderic, Aelasuria, and Swift went last, as Theoderic suspected that he was the highest priority for spies, and so the others could move unseen if he kept the attention fixed at Lucimburic.

So they have a couple of days of quiet stopover at Raviniacum.  Aelasuria takes Felicia to meet Procyon, who is familiar with Elfin Cats.  As is Marisol- Procyon's pregnant mate is lured out of hiding by the kitten.  Unicorns are normally very sleek looking, and Marisol looks quite round.

"The Elfin Cats are very tricky," Marisol says.  "But their hearts are in the right place.  They just sometimes have strange ways of showing it.  It is as if they like to tease the entire world, and everyone in it."

They had a short stay in a much loved place, and Aelasuria reconnected with children, Unicorns, Chara, and of course Blink Bunnies.  Swift rested as well, and Chara told them about the strange affinity the Blink Bunnies have for Scolo, the odd wizard who was here with Eadoin.

The Blink Bunnies are something new to Swift- they appear to be normal white rabbits, but they have an odd habit of teleporting for short distances- a “blink”.

Elves do not need as much sleep as Humans do.  What sleep they get is entirely occupied by vivid dreams.  Theoderic knew that Aelasuria always spent half the night awake, and often used the time to study her magic, which made it all the more miraculous, in his view, that she was usually there next to him when he woke up.  Several days into their stay, he awakes to find her there, and outside, in view from the window, the white sails of Elven Swan Boats on the river.

The others had gone out ahead, and now was time to catch up- with the aid of the graceful and speedy Swan Boats, which Entherin, Theoderic’s grandmother, sent down from her home at Divonanta, when Cirrus arrived.

"hmm I need books and maps so I can properly research this. I think I can work it out given enough time Theo. Yes your right we need to deal with the Huns first thank you for supporting the idea of exploring the cubes destinations."

Aelasuria is touched by Marisol coming out of her privacy to greet her. Her eyes soften with a warm lovely smile as she caresses along Marisol's neck and Main. "Thank you for coming to see us Marisol. I know this is a very private time for you and for good reason considering the precious life you have to protect."

She looks down at Felicia with a smile. "Felicia this is my good friend and companion Marisol. This is her mate or husband Procyon. She's going to have a baby Unicorn soon. If we are lucky the two of you will get to grow up together. I know I look forward to seeing your child grow to adult hood Marisol. I am curious how long will it take your foal to become a adult unicorn. For a mortal horse it happens fairly quickly."

Carefully she takes advantage of the time to balance practical and emotional needs. She visits with Chara, the children, the centaurs and any friends that currently are in Ravinicum not to mention spending time with Theo. At night and in other free time she is dedicated to learning her magic. Practicing spells, learning new ones, studying the cube and other wizardly activities! She makes a habit of serving breakfast to Theo either socially with family or occasionally privately in their room.

Later of course when the swan boats are arriving. He can of course smell breakfast as she turns her head to smile at him. "Theo the swan boats are on the river. Will we be traveling on them again or do you intend to travel overland?" Of course once she learns that they will be using the swan boats she perks up obviously very happy. She enjoyed the boats very much!

Swift looks at Chara "Oh, I am not sad about not having a permanent home. I like moving around and seeing all I have seen. I have seen so many wonderful and interesting places. I have seen great battles and even fought some great ones and some of the creatures I have seen are completely weird" she says with a laugh.

Chara is not one who ever would think of a battle as “great”.  Big, terrifying… not great.

Obviously, she has a very different outlook from Swift, and she will never understand how it could be that Swift isn’t tempted by a quiet life along a pretty river.  It’s just… puzzling.

(of course, Swift DOES have a home, with the Werefoxes in Lucimburic.)

* * * * * * * * *

Felicia is just a young kitten, and cannot speak, but is much more intelligent than an average cat, and gives some sign of understanding when Aelasuria makes the introductions.  She is more than a kitten,  but on the other hand… still a kitten.  Felicia finds yarn very entertaining.

* * * * * * * * *
”The Swan Boats are for us,” Theoderic says, “so we can catch up to the others.  And any spy still trailing us will have a hard time, now.”

They don’t have to take long to pack- they were already on the move, and Raviniacum was just a short stopover.  Chara supplies them with some home made food, an old Ardennes Elven recipe: bread, with spreads made from mashed nuts and cooked berries.

Felicia gives a hopeful look, as if to ask, “me too?  Am I going with you?”

It takes only a little while to get ready, and then, the boats are off.

By afternoon they are approaching the riverside palace of Divonanta, home to Entherin, and capital of the Second Ward of the Ardennes.

She was happy to let Felicia play with the yarn. Watching her pounce on it, roll it around, chase it and whatever else her kitten instincts had her do. occasionally she tries to join in the fun rolling the yarn carefully for Felicia giving her a moving target. Occasionally perhaps drawing along a string of yarn to let her play with that as well. Realizing Felicia like a mortal cat would eagerly play she makes a point of gathering a few toys for her. Including a scratching post should she feel the need to exercise her claws.

Taking a bit of time Aelasuria tells Chara about their travels sharing most of what happened. Though she avoids any truly dangerous moments knowing Chara worried enough about her son as well as herself. "Chara could I please have some of your home cooking for our trip? I think it will bring a smile to Theo to taste something that reminds him of home and you. We can eat it tonight by starlight on the swanboat. Don't tell him though I want to surprise him." She of course helps with the cooking eventually putting it all in a picnic basket. Which disappears into her magical bag for later!

Later with Theo she listens with interest then smiles as she speaks softly. "I look forward to catching up with the others. It's a pleasure to be able to ride the swan boats on the river again! I also have to admit I very much like the idea of giving the Hun spy a very hard time. It's to bad we can't play some sort of shuffling game to make it even more confusing."

She also accepts the homemade food giving Chara a loving hug. She holds her for a little bit speaking softly. "I regret not being able to stay longer Chara. We both miss you and I hope that we can spend far more time together later. Please say hello to your mother for me. Tell her I will try to visit sometime soon and with any luck I will manage to bring Theo with me! You as well if you want to try to coordinate such a visit! Also if Cirrus comes back this way encourage her to write us and If I can I will write her as well. That is of course if Cirrus doesn't find us herself. She really wants to help and be involved."

Smiling at Felicia Aelasuria picks her up gently kissing her on the head between her ears then hugging her gently. "Of course your coming Felicia. I want us always to be together if it's possible. I have to be careful to keep you safe though until you get good at taking care of yourself. I also packed a bit of fish for you. Hopefully you will like it as much as the chicken you tried earlier!"

As they Approache Enthrin's home Aelasuria laughs realizing they will have to enjoy a swanboat by stars dinner later. "I hope we get to stay a little while. I know time is short though I hope we can at least say hello. Enthrine will be so happy to see you Theo! If I had thought about It I should have bought a gift for your mother and grandmother."

Cirrus managed to stay on the boat, not quite ready to give up this adventure.  She likes to travel, she has learned, and she likes the breeze she feels perched way up on the mast.

Divonanta is, for all but Swift, a familiar place.  It is an old Elven Palace, one of the oldest structures in the Ardennes, added to and improved over the centuries.  The palace sprawls along one rocky side of the Meuse River, incorporating an unusually densely built Elven town.  They don't normally build like that in the Ardennes, but in Divonanta, the idea was the make efficient use of small space.

As the boats arrive, they see it is "market day"- the Elves have put up tents and booths along the tree and ivy lined pergolas by the river, to display the crafts they have made.  As leaders go, Marquessa Entherin is not a military leader, she is a sort of "arts and crafts" leader, devoting her attention to developing the talents of her people.  She is in the market, of course.  At the moment, in the tent of Malia Newsong, Entherin's favorite beautician, who is only here in Divonanta now and then.

It is a strange reversal of roles when the boat pulls into the dock of this Elven town.  In most places, Aelasuria attracts more of the attention.  Here, it is Theoderic.  The Elves here were cut off from Humans for a long time.  Some of them stare.

Swift walks along with the others to the boats as she talks with Clara. "When I say great, it was the size, not what I thought about it. I hate battles personally. I prefer small little actions, snaking around and getting out before anyone knows I was there." she smiles at her.

She is amazed by the city and the boats. She is also amazed at how the elves react to the humans and her. Though she looks human, she wonders what they would think of a werefox.

Eventually Aelasuria realizes that Cirrus is coming with them! Smiling up at her she waves to Cirrus. "You can come down and join us if you like Cirrus."

When the palace comes into sight she speaks softly to Theo and swift. "It's lovely isn't it Theo, swift. I love the palace here! The only thing it's missing is my treant cottage. Perhaps we should do a little shopping before we leave."

When the swan boat Docks Aelasuria smiles warmly taking a moment go give Theo a affectionate hug. "Smile Theo for once your the center of attention." Slipping ashore Aelasuria makes her way to Entherin and if possible greets her affectionately as well as giving her a hug. "It's good to see you Entherin. This is Swift and I know Theo needs no introduction. I  believe you met cirrus the last time."

Elves are normally much more patient shopkeepers than Humans are.  They will calmly greet people and even invite them to look at their wares, but they consider it rude to make aggressive sales pitches.

But with Swift, they are a little more forward than usual- it is the novelty of a Human being in their market.  There is a definite lack of premade clothes.  Elves are patient, an prefer custom made items.  The fit is better, and the Ardennes Elves care a lot about fit.  They normally have two sorts of garments- very free flowing ones they wear as “formal” attire and very close fitted clothes they were otherwise.  They wear close fitting clothes because there is less to catch or snag when they move through forest.

Because they prefer custom made goods, the Elven artisans here aren’t generally trying to sell finished articles of clothing, rather, it’s “Let me make something for you, look at my fabrics, and my workmanship!”  And most of the time, they want to sell what they or their families make.  There aren’t many Elves who are shopkeepers by trade.  They are artisans and craftsmen, and on market days, they show up to sell their things.

They notice not one but a pair of Elfin Cats- these are sitting on a large ivy covered beam that forms part of the market structure, watching, and apparently commenting to themselves.

Cirrus hits the market and soon makes a discovery.   She doesn’t have much money.  She resolves to take up the issue of salary with Theoderic and Aelasuria.  Sooner or later.

* * * * *

Aelasuria gets a chance to catch up to Entherin a little later, after Entherin is finished at the beautician.  She’s glad the boats worked out well for Theoderic.
“The Royal family has a few Swan Boats,” she says.  “The Fourth Mark has the biggest and finest, and also the most, and the First Mark has just a couple, but we have a few nice boats here.  Ours were built… well, the newest… in the time of my father, just before the first Hun war.  They will save a lot of time for you.”

The group is invited for dinner, and a stay at the palace.  Entherin tells them that one of the things she has done since the battles is create a memorial garden for those of the Second Ward that fell in the battles.  There were not many, not compared to those Elves that live closer to the frontiers of the Ardennes, but they should be remembered.

"It isn't over yet," Theoderic says.  "But I think we have turned the tide. From here on in, I think we will be driving the Huns back."

"I know it must be done," Entherin agrees.  "Last time, we did not defeat them, we only turned them away, and they returned.  But do not put too much of your life into it.  You have a kingdom to rule, and a wife, and a next generation to bring into the world, when it is time."

Cirrus deflects the conversation to the things she saw in the markets.

"What is the thin, light, soft fabric?" she asks. "Is that a kind of silk?"

"Oh no," Entherin says, "silk comes from far away, from traders.  What we make is from the floss of the bulrush, and it can be as soft as silk, but does not last as long."

Since Enthrine is busy at the beautician Aelasuria takes some time looking through the shops. She warmly greets the elves she meets happy to introduce Theo and perhaps Cirrus or swift should they be together as a group. She takes a little time getting to know them though is careful not to waste their time if they have paying customers that need attention. For Enthrine she gets something simple and perhaps useful. It really depends on what is available in the market. If they have a bottle of wine, perfume, or something similar.

When she see's the elfin Cats Aelasuria can't help but visit them. "Hello my name is Aelasuria. This is Felicia my friend and traveling companion. Also this is Theo my husband and Cirrus." If swift is present she will of course introduce her as well. Gently she cuddles Felicia letting her loose if she desires. So that the elfin cats could greet each other properly if they desire.

With Enthrine she smiles appreciatively nodding slightly. "Thank you. They really have been helpful and I enjoy riding the swan boat very much. It's good to see you again Enthrine you look like your doing very well." She was happy to see her looking better considering when they first met she hadn't been feeling well at all. Aelasuria gently holds Felicia in her arms one hand absently caressing her back. Although if she wants down She is content to let her scamper along as they walk.

At dinner she nods feeling for Enthrine. The loss of their brothers and sisters hurt everyone. A memorial garden would honor them. That and perhaps it just might give their families some tiny comfort in knowing they would be remembered and more. Aelasuria reaches over gently slipping her hand into Theo's giving it a affectionate squeeze.

Then turns her attention to Cirrus when she talks about the fabrics they had seen in the market place. "I had notice you looking Cirrus you seemed very interested in some of it. Perhaps we should buy some and have something made before we leave."

Swift walks among the different stalls, looking at what is there. She comments that she normally doesn't dress up so she would not really want anything too flowing. She does like the idea of the form fitting clothing. she comments that she doesn't know how long she will be around and asks how long it takes them to make some of their clothing.

Aelasuria quickly learns that the two cats are Felicia's parents!  It seems a coincidence that they are here.  Although they do not admit it, they hint that maybe, possibly, they showed up specifically to see how their kitten is doing.

It appears, life is good.  Elfin cats often have their young raised by Elves, or others, because it's an easy supply of free food, toys, a nice place to sleep... for a kitten, it's better than living in a hollow tree!

They approve.  Felicia has clearly been awarded to the right family.  Lots of attention.

* * * * * * *

Cirrus and Swift wander through the tents and booths of Elven artisans.

The answers to Swift's query are varied.  The simplest things can be done very quickly.  A belt in minutes!  A cloak or cape can be fitted for her in under an hour.  A complete Elven outfit can be done in a couple of days, but the most exotic, involved costumes can take weeks.

She was happy to meet them feeling a sense of joy at getting to meet Felicia's parents. If they are in the mood to enjoy it she will caress each of them behind the ears. If no she gives them their space with respectful care.

The Cats enjoy some attention from Aelasuria, and meanwhile...

Cirrus seeks out Theoderic, with issues, and questions, as a result of her encounter with the Elven market.  She finds him in the palace with Entherin and several of her advisors.

“How much does a messenger earn, anyway?” Cirrus asks, when she gets a moment.

“Honestly?”  Theoderic responds.  From the sound of his voice, he suspects Cirrus might not like the answer.

“It’s not a lot, is it?” the girl says.

“Most work for nothing.”  Theoderic says.

“What?  How is that possible?”  Cirrus asks.

Theoderic explains. “Well, most are boys, who will be adults soon, and then they will be cavalrymen.  It's what they are training for.  You can't become a good cavalryman with six months of training.  You need long years in the saddle... at least, most of us do.  They see this as a step along the path.  A few years as a messenger rider.  So their families sponsor them.”

“I don’t have a family.”

“Cirrus, if Aelasuria or heaven forbid Rita heard you say that, they’d be insulted… your family is us, and you know that.” Theoderic says.

Cirrus gives a little pout, but then a smile.  “So you will sponsor me, then?”

Theoderic looks at the Elves present, especially his grandmother.  They seem to be amused.  “Well… I guess it would be fair, within reason.  How much do you need?”

Cirrus enthusiastically describes some of the things she saw in the market- the Elven boots of soft white deer skin, the shiny, light, stretchy cloth that the Ardennes Elves use for many things.   Theoderic says no to jewelry, though.  It isn’t good to be extravagant when so many people are living in hard times.  Eventually, he counts out some coins for her.  Cirrus is thrilled, and heads back for the market.

Theoderic remarks to Entherin, and others who might overhear:
“I have been married since December, and I already have a full grown daughter.  And she’s a Sylph, or half-Sylph, or something, whatever.” 

“From what I understand,” Entherin says, “with some abilities just now on the cusp of development.  It is good that she should be accommodated.  She may be a very important ally in the future.”

“Speaking of allies,” one of the other Elves says, “you are headed north?  How soon?”

“No more than a day,” Theoderic says.  “How far can the Swan Boats take us?”

“North?” the Elf asks.  He is Harlath Rainsong, and he is the “master” of Entherin’s boats, seeing to their care and maintenance, and the training of Elven boat handlers, and acting as Entherin’s personal river pilot when necessary.  “All the way to the sea!  And then some, though it’s been a long time since Swan Boats sailed the sea.”

“Mos Trajectum, then,” Theoderic says.

“Mos Trajectum!” Harlath repeats.  “Hardly a voyage at all!”

Swift orders some boots that are quiet and sturdy. She then follows Cirrus to where the king is. She listens for the most part. She listens as the Theoderic describes why young men work as massagers. She did work as an unpaid young fox to learn scouting and her rouge skills. She respected anyone willing to do that. They where also learned where things where and who was who, they where good sources of information.

She takes a little time to ask Felicia's parents for advice on what elfin cat's like. She hopes that a little insight from the elfin cats will go a long way to ensure that Felicia is both as happy and healthy as possible.

Once that is done while shopping she picks up a few items. They had been traveling a lot so it gave her a good excuse to pick up a new pair of boots. She also picks up a elvish style dress. The ones here were different from the ones in Geneva. She also gets a new belt to compliment it. Seeing Cirrus picking up a few things Aelasuria smiles at her speaking softly. "I see you have found a few things you like too. Did you find any Perfumes in the elvish market? I think given the chance before we go we should try some of the local food. Would you like to do that? Also Cirrus since a sword Doesn't seem to work for you. Have you considered the bow or perhaps a dagger would work better."

Eventually she Joins Theo smiling at him as she speaks softly. "I saw Cirrus shopping in the Market. She looks very happy Theo thank you for that. I imagine you paid her for her messenger work." Aelasuria takes a few moments to show off what she had bought at the market herself. "I couldn't resist picking up a few things. Theo did you see anything you liked?"

When she sees Swift she remembers that Swift had been shopping as well. "Hi Swift did you pick anything up from the market? I picked up boots, a dress, a belt and a few other odds and ends."

Elfin Cats like most of the things one would expect cats to like.

Toys, especially when they are young.  Things to catch and chase.  Food.  Being scratched behind the ears.  And of course, confusing and bewildering people.  Cats are all individuals, especially the Elfin cats, so there is no telling just what peculiar quirks Felicia might develop, but being a Cat, she is certain to have at least one.

They stay in the riverside palace-town of Divonanta for a day.  It is the kind of place that makes people wish they could stay longer, even Theoderic,  But there are places to go, and the Swan ships await.

Swift's Boots are "on order".  Elves are known to be lax about sticking to schedules, especially older Elves, who have seen so many years go by that they stop seeing the importance of days.  (Younger Elves tend to be Human-like in their outlook, having not experienced all that time.)  But they are also honest, and Swift's boots will be ready in a few days.  Swift will not be here, but more than likely, she will be here sooner or later- or at least, she will be somewhere along the river, and the boots can be shipped.

Theoderic hasn't been shopping... just looking, at little.  Too many things on his mind.

The Swan boats depart again- Theoderic, Aelasuria, Swift, Cirrus, and their troop of mostly Elven warriors.  They sail down the great Meuse river, passing through the heart of the Elven Kingdom, with small villages and settlements, often in trees, lining the river bank.

It takes less than a day to get to their next stop- Namaco, the most "city" city of the Elves, the place where they fought the battle last winter.

There are still signs of some damage; the Elves have not fixed everything yet.

Naturally she thanks them for whatever suggestions and advice that they share. She of course has already been scratching behind Felicia's ears and tests to see if there are any other particular areas's that she loves to have scratched or petted. A ball of yarn would probably be Ideal inside her home. Out in the forest though it required something more sturdy and unlikely to trap sticks, mud, leaves and any other debris it comes into contact with!

If possible she prefers one enchanted to return on it's own when called or with magic making it easy to find should it become lost. Children tended to lose things from time to time so either magic would prove helpful. A tall reed or certain style of long plants could be used to let her chase and pounce. However as intelligent as she is Aelasuria is careful to make sure she enjoys something and Assumes nothing. A enchanted doll style mouse to chase might be ideal although not so easy to get she suspects. That option is likely a note and not a reality.

Cuddling Felicia she scratches behind her ears enjoying a little snuggle time. Then of course lets her roam the boat after warning her about the edges and the possibility of falling in the water. Cats typically have both a amazing sense of agility and balance. Plus Felicia is very intelligent even so Aelasuria is diligent about keeping a eye on the wayward child while she explores and plays. Four legs makes no difference to her at all versus two.

During the boat ride she also Cuddles with Theo when he's not busy doing something. Spending time watching the river go by and simply talking about whatever comes to mind. When it's time she serves lunch both to Theo and Felicia. Felicia likely gets fish or another healthy food that she's shown she likes. For Theo it's a regular and tasty meal although if possible she picks up some form of elvish style dessert. Perhaps blueberry, raspberry, strawberry, or other tart or dessert appropriate for the season.

"Swift if you would like to have lunch with us please feel free to join Theo and I. Also if you would like to say hello to Felicia I am sure she would enjoy getting to know you."

When They arrive at Namaco Aelasuria looks around seeing that things have yet to return to normal. She can only hope that the families here have resumed as normal a life as possible. "I hope that they won't have more damage to repair in the future Theo. It looks like they have yet to repair some of what happened from the last time. Do you have any plans on what you would like to do first while your here?"

Swift lets the boot makes know she will send for the boots. She thanks them and heads out.

She loves the Swan boats. They seem so elegant as they glide though the water. She climbs up and watch's the shore on both sides to get a feel for the area. As a scout, she likes knowing where she is and what's behind her.

she walking around the deck when she sees Aelasuria "Oh, I would be honored to have lunch with you" she looks Felicia "Hello, its nice to meet you"

When they reach Namaco, she just looks around disgusted. She remembers what it was like before the battle. "I hope they can rebuild the soon, it was so wonderful"

Their time in Namaco, if indeed they had planned to spend any time at all, is cut short, by news.  The Elves have a fairly quick communications system along the river, suing the quick Swan boats.  A few are small and fast, and designed as couriers.  It is shortly after their boat pulls in at the docks in Namaco… a smaller Swan Boat pulls along side.

An Elf on board the small craft calls out to Harlath in Elven, asking if Theoderic is present.

The Elf skipper answers in the affirmative, and gets him.

“I bring word from Lutosa,” the courier Elf reports. “From the Riverlights themselves. Salen Soulwater, and a small party, has arrived, but they are making ready to depart soon.”

“Well, of course,” Theoderic says.  “For Mos Trajectum, where we plan to rendezvous.”

“But he is not,” the courier Elf says.  “He has found a water sprite.  There are quite a few that live in the wild parts of the rivers.  This one has convinced him to go find something.  I think, the water sprite’s home.”

“Salen would not turn aside from a mission like that,” Theoderic says.  “unless, maybe, he thought… this place they are going to… is it east of the river?”

“It is,” the Elf says.  “They will cross at Lutosa and go east.  That is what the Elves with him said.”

“It must be important, then.  Salen must be thinking he can do this, and then catch up with us again, since we plan to go east from Mos Trajectum.  But he could be heading into the jaws of the enemy.  We have to catch up to him.  Can you bring a message back to Lutosa for me?  To the Riverlights?”

“That is my home, that is where I will return to,” the courier Elf says.

“I will need to catch up to Salen.  And if he has already departed when I get there, I will need to borrow a fast horse.”

He turns to Aelasuria.

"I hope you do not mind if this is a very short stop.  We might have to get your brother out of trouble.  There must be an important reason for him to turn away from our plan.  The water sprite told him something, and he's decided to investigate first, I'm sure of it."

Felicia of course regards Swift with intelligent eyes resting one paw lightly on her hand in greeting. Her tail flicks avidly as she stalks the reed Aelasuria has. Pouncing it the mighty hunter catches her pray. Tussling with it for a little while she moves off with a satisfied look. Likely she ends up for a little while in Aelasuria's lap resting and enjoying a little attention. Though swift is also a possibility if she welcomes the company.

"Your welcome. It's nice to enjoy a meal with company. It looks like we will be traveling together for a while. Tell me do you have family back in Lucimburic? Most of mine live in Geneva."

Later once they arrive at Namaco Aelasuria listens to the report from the elves. Shaking her head slightly she speaks softly. "Of course not. I will be happy to help you find my brother. I suspect Spica might be able to help with tracking him down. I can if I need to use my flight magic. This gives me a view from the sky and I imagine I will have little trouble keeping up with a horse. You didn't plan on going alone did you? Or did you intend for us to continue on till you and Salen catch up?"

"Oh no, I'm not planning to go after them on my own," Theoderic says.  "The horse is to send a message, to Mos Trajectum, or wherever we have to, with a change in plans.  If we have to.  We may not need it.  But we might.  We will go find out what your brother is up to, as a group."

After taking on supplies, the boats set sail, on a crisp, cool spring evening.  The seasons are gentle in Elven lands.  Spring evenings are time for rain, and there is a light rain from a night sky broken with clouds.

They sail up the river, between the lights of Elven tree settlements on either side of the river.   The settlements are thick, here, in the densest portion of the Kingdom of the Ardennes.  The boat captain points out the largest- Ama, Hoya, and Andenna.  These tend to be sleepy little Elven river towns.  For commerce and trade, the Elves take their boats to Namaco.

They will sail all night- these Swan Boats, being smaller than the great vessels used by the Elven royals, don't have cabins and beds.  So the crew suggests getting comfortable however possible.

"Oh! Ok Theo I understand!"

On the boat somehow she knew they couldn't use the secure cottage spell for shelter. Instead she looks into setting up some sort of umbrella or something to at least keep the rain off. She serves dinner enjoying the lovely view on the river. The Lights from the Elven homes in the tree catch her eye. As well as other things as they go. Enjoying a quiet dinner with Theo She looks up at the stars if they are visible despite the rain.

"I hope that the message gets to my brother in time. As capable as Salen is I still worry for him since there might be some sort of Hun trap. If we have to go personally I am more then happy to do so."

Swift smiles at Felicia "Even though I come from where most were's do, I have always moved around. So in some ways the world is my home and it is where ever I am. I always have a new one where ever I go. I do miss not having one place to go but sometimes I am also free not to miss anything.  I have seen so much of the world, I just love to travel" She just continued to watch, not much for a scout to do on a boat. She just kept an eye on the shore.

It is the next day when the boat arrives in Lutosa.  It is the northern border-town of both the Fourth Mark, and the Kingdom of the Ardennes. It is very different from Namaco, its much larger sister town further south.  By population size, Lutosa would be a smallish Human town- about 1800 Elves live here.  It is not nearly as well developed a trading center as Namaco to the south.

The boat captain mentions that the Riverlights, the noble Elven family that includes the lords of the Fourth Mark (this region of the Elven Kingdom of the Ardennes) are often in the town.   It's regarded as a quiet, beautiful place, and the a well known feature is the "basket homes"- rather than perch on branches, some Elven homes here hang from them, often over the river, swaying gently in the breeze.

These look exactly like giant flower baskets, and in fact each basket home is wreathed in colorful spring flowers.  The Elves work with what they have, and along the river here, they had willow trees.  Elven magic let them grow to enormous size, but the willows are not well made for the usual Elven tree homes.  So here, they learned to make homes like giant hanging baskets.

"I can appreciate that. I enjoy traveling as well Swift." She thought Perhaps there was a touch of a kindred spirit for exploration.

Later when they reach Lutosa she takes in the basket homes with interest. Her eyes flick about taking in everything. Glancing at the Boat captain with a smile. "Perhaps if there is time we will visit the Riverlights. Theo what did you have in mind for Lutosa?"

She walks around the ship, admiring the elf homes. She glances over at the Captain "Those are very interesting homes but I am not sure I would like to be in a house that sways in the wind. I am not a bird. They are fascinating but I couldn't live in one. She did wonder what they where doing here.

They cruise to the floating dock alongside...

Well, there's no real "town" here.  Lutosa is more old-school Elven in style than Namaco, and there is no dense core where they can say, this is it, we're here.  But there is a garden on the east bank which is where the boat ties up.

"When the winds blow hard, the basket-homes are lashed tight with extra rope," the boat captain says.  "But that's not often, because old magic keeps the weather under the Elven trees gentle.  Most of the time.  Sometimes, it gets through.  I imagine... it could be scary, in a storm in a house like that.  But no worse than being on the water!"

The Elven messenger, who had brought word of Salen's change of plan, comes to the dock to meet the group.

"This is where Salen was?"  Theoderic asks him.

"Yes," says the courier.  "And now he is gone to the north and east, into the forest. There was a water sprite with them.  Guiding them, I have heard."

"I could ride out and catch them," Cirrus volunteers.

Theoderic does not approve.  "The forest around the Ardennes is dangerous."

"It is," the courier agrees.  "We've fought the Huns, and we've fought monsters that seem to follow the Orcs like crows following a storm."

"But I do need to get word to Mos Trajectum that there is a change of plans," Theoderic says.

"I'll head that way next," the boat captain says.

"Then you'll stay with us," Theoderic says to Cirrus.  "Is there a place we could wash and eat something before going on?  I don't think there is a tavern here."

"No," the courier says.  "Our custom is staying with friends when traveling, or one of the trees dedicated to that purpose.  But perhaps the Riverlights would welcome you.  Koniel and Ylassi, the Marquis and Marquessa of our Ward, are not present, but their house has several trees, and Durlias, their son, is here."

The courier directs them to a giant willow tree, with four great basket-homes hanging from its enormous branches, linked by delicate looking rope bridges.

"I imagine it makes for a interest style of life living in their basket homes. Some elves can even use hammocks up in the trees. Magic can be used to make it of living vines which is a preferred choice though there are plenty of other ways to do it."

She nods slightly smiling at the boat captains explanation of the magic to help with the weather. "Yes I am guessing they get used to it. Or if there is no other choice they can always temporarily move to the ground till the weather becomes peaceful again."

Listening with a slightly concerned expression as it's clear they would have to work for it in order to catch up to her brother. "A water sprite? Huns have used prisoners as traps before. Do you think they did something to a group of fey in that forest?"

She smiles at the mention of the Riverlight family and where they might stay. Briefly she enjoys the garden next to the boat. Then when it's time moves to the Riverlight's home. If she see's Durlias she greets him with a graceful elfin gesture or greeting. She for the moment is cuddling Felicia in her arms. Although she fully intends to let her explore soon under her watchful eye so that she could burn off a bit of her abundant kitten energy. "Hello Durlias. This is my husband King Theoderic, Cirrus, Swift and my Elfin cat Felicia. I heard that your parents are out unfortunately I would have liked to have a chance to greet them. Please may we have hospitality in your home?"

She will of course discuss both her own and his families if he likes and will ask about friends as well.

Durias Riverlight greets the party, and introduces a few other friends and family, and invites the group “up” for an Elven dinner.  He sets out a small piece of fish for the Cat.

"A water sprite," Durias says as he helps with dinner. (Theoderic gently takes Aelasuria's arm, just in case she becomes tempted to help with the food.  They are guests, here.)  "I did not get a chance to meet him other than quickly.  Yes, I agree, it could be a trick.  Perhaps it was not even a real water sprite, but something changed to look like one.  I hope your brother is wise, dealing with him."

Elves can be very cold towards strangers visiting their lands, but the party members, some of them anyway, have become very well known.  Even Swift creates some recognition here, for her deeds at the battle of Namaco.

It was one of many battles, according to the Elves.  There were other, smaller battles, including one right here.  But Namaco was the big, all important battle.  If Namaco had been breached, the Elven Kingdom might have endured a terrible tragedy, with thousands of lives lost.

As they talk in the Riverlight Treehouse, Theoderic did not know the battles in this area had been as intense as Durias describes.

”I had thought the Huns north of here were mostly interested in Mos Trajectum,” he says.

”They are,” Durias agrees.  “But we are Elves, and their hatred of us is legendary.  So many of them grow tired of harassing a bridge they can not take, and come towards us, instead.  It is almost like we are relaxation for them.”

”Have you organized counterattacks?”

Durias sighs.  ”We’ve done patrols in that direction.  Our King and Queen have opposed the idea of  a larger effort.  There is no war without cost.  Even if we won, we would pay too high a price.”

”But the long, slow war you have fought… that is not without cost.”

The Elf noble nods.  “This too is true.  Were it my choice alone… it might be different.  The King and Queen have the say.   And so, we repel their attacks, we patrol, we have not tried to defeat them.”

"Do you know where the water sprite is leading them?"

"There are some places of old magic in the forest.  Many are associated with water.  There are several places I know of, but even more that I do not.  But maybe you can track them?"

"Thank you Durias." She smiles as he thoughtfully provides fish for Felicia to enjoy a meal with the rest of them. When Theo takes her arm she smiles again having a feeling it was more then simply being affectionate. While it's true she liked to get into the kitchen she decides to sit this one out.

Listening to Theo and Durias she nods slightly looking at Theo. "I hope he is as well. I certainly don't like the idea that it might not be a water sprite at all."

Eating her meal she glances at Swift curious as to what she thinks of things. "It seems we all are getting recognizable wherever we go. It's not going to be the same for us if we become so notable we can't go anywhere without being recognized. I hadn't considered this before now. I guess I should have! It might make things interesting for all of us swift once the war is over. Do you plan on going back to Lucimburic after the fighting is over or will you continue to travel?"

Hearing the talk turning towards war and other things she turns her attention back to Durias and Theo. "Durias all peoples are uniting against the Huns, Dwarves, Humans, halflings, elves and even fey have fought side by side against the Huns and their demonic masters. We should all work together to put a end to the horrors they are visiting on everyone. Your right about the Orc's hatred and they are not going to stop unless we stop them. My people originally felt the same and wished to wait things out I think. This however isn't going to work. If the Huns are not defeated they will eventually enslave or slay all elves everywhere. Given the chance hopefully we can help you persuade the king and queen that with help they can be driven away permanently. Theo has already won several battles against them in this war. If we continue to win eventually they will be defeated if we work together."

She was rather interested in the possibility of tracking them. The sooner they found her brother and had a chance to warn him the better. "I think Swift has some ability with tracking. Any help you might lend in tracking them from your people Durias would be greatly appreciated."

Swift follows the group up the tree. She greets Durias as she is introduced. She listens for a while but when she gets a chance, she adds her two cents. "Durias, I have to agree, as someone who scouts, they might just be probing you for a weakness and might soon completely attack.  Just defending only prolongs it. Even though you might lose a lot in one major fight, it might be less over the long course of what you are doing now and its ended." she couldn't understand why someone would not just end if they had a chance.

“I know it sounds strange,” Durias says.  “But the leaders among us, my parents, and the king and queen of the Ardennes.. they have been around for a very long time.  In their time, whole cities have emerged from little villages, grown, prospered, and vanished.”

He looks over at Aelasuria for a moment.  “It must be the same for your people. I have been in the Alps a few times, but the last, more than a century ago.”

Then he resumes.  “They have seen the world for so long, sometimes, they do not believe it changes.  So they hold to the ways of times past, even when perhaps they should not.  Orcs were never a great threat to us, not until a century ago, when the Huns began to rise.  So we have never faced war until recently.  It is a new thing, for a people who do not like new things.”

”It’s been what I have faced all my life,” Theoderic says.

”And you must know how brief that is for us.  When I was a child, the Franks were just a collection of tribes to the north.  But it is true, it is your whole life.  For us it is not.  But we are learning.  Especially the young Elves.  They have it harder, and they do not have the burden of years their elders do.  It is mostly they, who have joined the patrols.  And a few joined with Salen Soulwater, as I recall.”

”Do you think you can track a troop of Elves through forest?”  Theoderic asks Swift.  “If you can, you are our best hope for catching up with them quickly.”

"The Huns do seem to have a disturbing ability to overcome traditional elf style defenses if given enough time to prepare. They have used magic that makes them very resistant if not immune to our magic. They also sent goblins after a wizard known as Scolo. When I used magic on the goblins it actually caused me great pain and had little effect on them. Their iron soldiers are also a great threat to anyone human, elf, dwarf it won't matter. Although fortunately I think we were able to strike many of their iron soldiers down. What I am trying to say though is that our elders need to be aware of this fact. I am fine with honoring the old ways and I respect their wisdom. However we have to be able to adapt to new ways in order to survive the very real threat. I hope that we can persuade them to overcome the issues you described. Perhaps if Theo has a chance to speak with them they might see something new from his perspective. That or I could try if you prefer Theo."

When Theo speaks to swift Aelasuria looks at her hopping that she could indeed track elves. "I sincerely hope that you can Swift. The sooner we can be sure that they are all safe the better."

They are fortunate in having the services of a natural tracker- Swift.  When in proper form for it, Swift has an excellent nose for finding and following trails.

Picking the scent up is easy, as Salen and his group took no efforts to hide themselves while in Lutosa.

Strangely, she gets a slight hint of… Human?  There is a Human with them, it seems.

But aided by Swift’s marvelous nose, they are off, and quickly on the trail of Salen, who went north into the wilderness.  North, and then turning northeast.

Theoderic notes that northeast would be in the direction of the Huns.  Would Salen really think to do this all by himself?

Swift just smiles at Theoderic "That will not be too hard in my natural form. To track Huns, I don't even need to change" she laughed as she turned into a fox. She looked for the trail.  She picks it up and starts after the elves.

Riding Aelasuria stays close to Theo though she also keeps a eye on Cirrus if she's riding with them and not busy doing some sort of courier thing. "Good luck Swift." As a fox she likely wouldn't be seen until she came back to report something.

Aelasuria tends to Felicia making sure she's comfortable as they travel. She also keeps half a eye out for Spica knowing that a Unicorn would be as likely to find anything of interest in a forest as the most skilled ranger.

With Swift in the lead, they track down Salen and the Elves that went with him.

Swift is certain there is a Human in the mix, and... something else.  There is a track she cannot make out.  Small, delicate, but unusually large, flat feet.

The trail leads them into a land of dense, hilly forest.  Here and there, the forest thickens so as to be all but impassable- dense concentrations of brush and tangled vines.  The Elves grew these areas on purpose, Aelasuria knows.  They are living walls, part of the defenses of the kingdom.

Salen's trail leads them around and past these defenses.

After a long day of trailing, the think they are getting close... but that's hard to tell.  If the Elves stopped to make camp, it would be their way to make a well hidden camp.

But it is also their way to leave marks, identifiable by other Elves, and others trained in wood lore.  It is important, so different groups of Elves do not blunder into each other.  When hunting, and especially when at war, this can be a problem.

According to the Runes they find marking a tree, there is a camp on the hill ahead.

When they start getting close Aelasuria perks up eager to see her brother and the others safe and sound. She of course is interested in any information swift cares to share about who they are tracking. "The small tracks are probably from the water sprite... if that's what it really is. There is no telling if the Huns are involved how they might play things. Though letting a water sprite get help if they plan a ambush would work fine for them."

Once they identify where the camp is she speaks to Theo. "Theo if you want I can go first with Spica. I can fly if I need to and there is no way they would attack a Unicorn. Besides the moment my brother sees me he will know I am not a threat. Spica would be able to tell if anything evil is in the area. Though if you prefer to ride in as a group or let swift greet them that is fine."

Swift continues to go ahead of the others but makes sure she doesn't lose them She waits if they have trouble keeping up with her. She tries to see what scents she can pick up.

Swift leads them unerringly, but carefully.  One does not simply sneak up on a possibly nervous group of Elves out in dangerous wilderness.

The trail leads up a hill.  Like most of the hills in this area, it is a gentle, round hill with easy slopes, but this particular hill has an excellent view of the surrounding valleys, being located where several forested valleys meet.  Trees crown the rounded top.  It seems a likely place for Elves to make camp.

And they are right.  On the hill, they are reunited with Salen and his detachment of Elves, and they seem to haved acquired a few new members:  there is a water sprite here.  They've met water sprites before; such as Squijjit, and they all look somewhat the same- but then, maybe water sprites say the same about Humans and Elves.

There is also a human man here the others haven't met.

The groups join in a new thread:  The Water Garden.