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."