Thinking he might just be getting familiar with the ways of the Ardennes Elves, perhaps through experience and/or perhaps through Ayren's guidance, Salen guides himself through the glass thorns with a minimum of fuss. Or maybe he was just very careful, giving his full concentration to his efforts, which is why he has been so quiet recently. Marcodurum surprised him even then, for it was unlike the settlements he regarded as typical of the Ardennes - much more defensive, walled even. This was more in line with what he had originally expected to find.

The wizards talk, and Salen merely listens. He is but a fledgling in this regard, with much to learn, and the best way to learn is...to listen.

Leiki Glimmerdawn gathers a few of his extended family to meet with the party.  He offers the use of Marcodurum for their evening’s rest.  Theoderic does not want to stay more than that; they need the momentum.

”The enemy is aware of us,” he says.  “With each hour they will react.  We must depart at daybreak.”

”They are our enemy as well, and have been for a long time,” Leiki says.  “I have no doubt they watch us.  A force like yours will not move in secrecy.”

There is always a tradeoff between strength and agility, with armies.  Though Theoderic’s force is definitely on the agile side, it is not nearly as agile as an Elven patrol, and that is what the Huns have been facing here for a long time.  They are far more powerful than an Elven patrol, though.

Elves arrive, and they look very puzzled when Scolo suddenly says something about tree roots and lightening, only to be “explained” by his odd looking familiar.  Edgar, Scolo noted, was particularly wary of the glass blades on the way here, as if he they posed some special threat to him.  Having come from a place even Scolo barely knows, there is much about Edgar that remains a mystery- and the creature’s chaotic mind has no intention of sharing those secrets.

”You blast the ground with lightening to make glass?” asks a young Elf.  It is Litran, Leiki’s grandson.  “It seems a violent way to do things.   And so uncontrolled.  The glass we use is made carefully.”

And they have made a lot of it.  There are glass windows in the tree homes, and even in the trunks of some trees, a feature not seen in every Elven settlement.

”We have fought them for a long time,” Leiki says, “here, in the forest, never Juliacum.  Only a few times at Aquae Grannis, and it has never gone well for us. We have a few score good fighters, our wizards, a unicorn.  Elves, you know, are not experienced with offensive battles.  To assault a stronghold of the Huns is a difficult task.  The master of Juliacum is a Demon, reeking with Evil magic.  Do you know what you have chosen as a target?”

Ayren curls herself against Salen, even quieter than he is.  The Healer does not like the sound of this.

She glances at Scolo then smiles at Edgar's words giving him a slight nod. She understood Scolo would have his interests and his ways about him. No harm has been done and she was certain Theo knew that as well. The other elves though would be experiencing it for the first time.

Aelasuria speaks softly to Leiki her expression calm and attentive. "We have fought several different demons in the past. All have been defeated, however we don't know this demon. What can you tell us about this ones powers and nature? It's true since we haven't fought in a war in some time we haven't had to storm any castles or forts. That is a skill more honed by humans and dwarves."

"Learning from their experience will save lives  Theo will be able to help us with those tactics. We know the battles we face will not be easy and some might cost us dearly. I trust Theo will fight the battles that need to be fought with wisdom. That he will carefully take consideration for the consequences before making any such decision. "

She missed Ovo right about now. The brave Dwarf no doubt would have a thing or two to share about the subject at hand.

Leiki looks at Theoderic, lines of worry on his face.

“You’re leading them all into great danger.  You’ll be outnumbered, and facing a powerful enemy.  Why does she have such faith in you?” he asks.

“We've done so much already,” Theoderic says.  “There have been battles, and Demons, and we've won.”

“I know,” Leiki says.  “We may be on the north boundary of the Kingdom, a small place, but news does reach here.  I know of the battle at Namaco.  Many Elves were lost, but the day was one, and you...and she... have no small part in that victory.    But things are different here.  You were fighting on Elven land.  Now you want to go into the rats's own tunnels, in their place.  Different.”

“Sooner or later, they must be defeated, you know that,” Theoderic says.  “You must know that.”

“I know that,” Leiki says.  “But sooner... or later?”

“I am here, I have the momentum, now,” Theoderic says.

“If I help, and there is a great loss among my warriors, Marcodurum is done.  With ten less I could not defend this place. “  The old Elf wizard looks at Aelasuria.  "We've heard of you, yes.  A Princess of the Alps Elves, they say.  If we help you, if we risk our blood in this cause, it is because of your faith in him.  We will ask for volunteers, but I need your word, you will bring them back to us, as best that fate allows."

Oh indeed? yes, careful glass, well nature's uncontrolled sometimes but surprises are pickle!

So now, Demons need strength each one, different and attack must also be so - but they grow, always grow, unlike orcs. Without demons the Huns would expand to a point and pop or fizzle out breaking down hmmmm?

But demons are clever they plan and think, they will. So help or not we will try - if we fail your town will die.

Heolstor watched and listened as the elves tiptoed around what laid ahead, dreading loss and the sting of battle. It seemed it was always their lot to be consumed with grief and hesitation. He understood Leiki's position, that it was precarious - but to hear the life of a dozen elves weighed so heavily against a city of enslaved men irked the Saxon.

How many humans and dwarves had marched North with him? How many had died in the Ardennes, far from home, for the sake of those elf-lands? Heolstor had led them well - but he knew the count was greater than twelve, his hands had poured their grave dirt. Were their lives worth less to these elves? If Lingones or Tullum, his own people, were pressed by the Huns... Would these elves consider them worth even a single elvish life?

Surely it was not all elves who were so. Anakri, there was a stalwart elven commander. Were she only here now...

...But it did not bare considering. Heolstor wore his stoicism like a mask, olive eyes betraying little as he watched the conversation play out.

"Battle does not pass without price, wizard." Heolstor suggested, looking to the old elf. "A man, or a woman's word, should not be asked when a promise is not in their power. Do not risk making her an oathbreaker for the sake of your conscience. That is unfair." Pwyll looked on silently, head twisting back and forth as he tried to take in Heolstor's strange company all at once.

"...Though we will all do what we can, to bring as many back as can be so from all parties. I possess some healing magic, and Petra much more. Should one of your own fall in battle, they will be saved if it can be so." Heolstor stated. He was careful not to promise what he could not, but if assurances would assuage the old wizard's... Where was the harm? Heolstor's words were genuine, even if carefully worded.

"And there it is, all of our allied peoples' possess the momentum for the time being. To relent is to open ourselves up to retaliation and destruction..." Heolstor agreed and expounded. "We have risked much. All of us. Often times for people who do not know us, but so that the curtain of slavery may be drawn back. The people of my realm were slaves once, and the Huns expelled my own ancestors from our homeland. Many do not have the time to wait for later, many should not have to - they have suffered in chains for too long already."

He looked to Scolo, considering the strange man's rambling. There was a kernel of insight there, unpolished due to the discomfort it no doubt held. "... And he is right, if this battle is lost it does not matter that you have preserved a few warriors. Today, tomorrow, in a year. The Huns will come, and they will win. Time is not your ally, Leiki."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:43, Mon 02 Dec 2013.

Aelasuria nods slightly understanding his deep concerns. This was his home, and more importantly his people. Their fate depended on his judgement. Even if they won if he lost to much it had dire consequences for them. "We are one Leiki just the same as had I wed a elf from my homeland. We have been through much fought several demons, blackguards, Hun forces of a variety of kinds. Never has Theo exorcised bad judgement or thought of himself first. Don't take my word alone feel free to ask Spica, or in due time Marisol or other Unicorns whom support him as well."

Briefly she pauses to let him digest that then continues. "We will do our best to see that as many of all of our people come back. I will see your people no differently then I do my own for all their lives are truly precious. If for whatever reason to many of them fall we will see to it that Marcodurum is safe until you are strong enough to defend it yourself. Even if I have to stay here myself for however long that is. That is the least we can do for anyone that is willing to risk so much to help us." She meant it knowing it might not be easy. However she was sure they would find enough volunteers willing to defend or even settle in Marcodurum. Elves, perhaps some of the centaurs even humans if they would allow it.

She nods in agreement with Heolstor though she doesn't repeat him feeling they had all driven that particular point home. As they both knew in due time the Huns could and would come here in force. Likely all to soon if they were not defeated soundly. The sheer strength he rightly feared so close meant the Huns were up to something. That as they had demonstrated very clearly time and time again boded ill for anyone nearby. Particularly elves whom the Huns hated so much.

Aelasuria mentions the Unicorns, and the other Elves around Leiki look around hesitantly, and exchange glances.

No one ever said Unicorns were brilliant scholars or strategists.  But everyone knows, they are as pure hearted as anything that walks the Earth.  Where so much has an evil, corrupt core, Unicorns are spotless.  They can always be counted on to know right from wrong and good from bad, at least.

As if called, one appears... not Spica.

"Canopus," Leiki says, greeting the creature.  "You are timely."

"You look glum, but another of my kind is paying a visit," the Unicorn says.  "That is never a sad occasion.  They come with the daughter of Procyon, who is the wisest of us all, it is said."

"You have council for me, then, from the Unicorns?" Leiki asks.

"You know we cannot advise in matters of war," the Unicorn says.  "But what they say, they say from honest hearts.  And they take no ones lives lightly.  I see this king, and this queen, and he would never lead but to do what is right, and for the fallen, even for your own kin, she would shed more tears than you.  The man with the crow-friend speaks the truth as well, and though his words may be bitter to you, they are far kinder than the words of one who would cloak the bitter with sweetness."

"It is a bitter choice, then, but, you say, the best choice to make," Leiki says.

"I only say that what was said to you, is said with the purest intent.  And I will go with them.  Tho more of us there are, the less risk for all, and as you do not wish to see Elven lives risk, I do not wish harm to the Unicorn mare who accompanies them.  For that alone I would make this cause mine."

 “There are two other issues we must bring to you,” Theoderic says, sounding hesitant, fearing that he might be giving Leiki too much at once.  “One is an Elven attempt at diplomacy with the Huns.”

“Had not a Unicorn just vouched for your honesty I would says there could be no such thing,” Leiki says. "How can this be?"

Theoderic explains what was found.  And mentions the name.  Therill Heayzan.

The Elven Wizard considers.  “It is a quiet clan.  They don't go outside the Kingdom and are rarely even seen close to the edges.  They do not have the same experience as we here do.  But last year, they lost three during the deepest Hun incursion of the winter.  It is possible they see this as a way to get their clan members back... but it must be a Hun trick.  To gain even more prisoners.”

One of the other Elves tells Leiki: "We've heard nothing of this!"

"No doubt, the Heayzans feared their efforts would be spoiled if knowledge was shared," Leiki says.  "I wonder how far this has gone."

"If the enemy is employing tricks, the enemy has a plan," Theoderic says.  "We must move against him."

"You know our ways," Leiki says.  "I must share this, tonight, and ask.  I cannot command this.  It is not our way.  But I will ask.  What is the other thing you wish to discuss?"

"At Aquae Grannis, some weapons and armor that may be of your people were found.  And we wish to return them, if they are."

Swift had disappeared for a while and now re-appeared at the elf town. She had been around elves a lot, but she still found hem fascinating. She listens to those around her. She can't believe elves would work with the Huns but who knows what would drive them to that.

Crow friend? What is he talking about?  Edgar?!

Yes master Scolo?

Your not a cat.

Yes master Scolo.
And the wizard smiles and Edgar beams and practically glows as he looks more birdlike than ever his deep purple body is sleeker and his little red magical velvet vest actually looks proud. And he flys flapping beautiful primordial wings of the creature who are the original essence of Corvid not totally made material and still infused with imagination.

Of course! Who else would be so wise? Would fly, and speak impeccable latin? Would apologize for his master, lead him, peck at him or encourage him. Of course Edgar is a Crow.

And he alights on Scolo's Raven, Actually, but close enough arm and the wizard cuddles into him and weeps.
I see you now, I know who you are.

yes, master Scolo
Now Edgar will help Scolo to discover who Scolo really is.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:23, Tue 03 Dec 2013.

Heolstor listened to the unicorn's words. It felt strange, to have such a pure creature speak in his defense... But it was certainly reassuring. The unicorn had understood the thrust of what he'd said, the heart behind it: it did one no good to hide from the world's pains. Bitter a draught as it had been, it had been the truth.

Pwyll watched cannily as Scolo's familiar did his best crow impersonation. The corvid crooned appreciatively. It was good, for a first try. Heolstor himself maintained his attentions on the rest of the conversation. Scolo was odd, that was true - but there was more to him. There had to be. Theoderic did not seem the kind to keep a madman in his company for humor's sake.

"What Theoderic, King of the Franks, says is true. When Petra, Brennus, Leandra, and myself slew Silok we found that he had looted elven fallen of their belongings. If these warriors were survived, their families ought have back those tokens." Heolstor suggested. "You should take them."

He said nothing of how he had found the elven dead - hung from the wall like macab ornaments. Heolstor had poured bitterness into the old elf's wounds already. There was no call to grind it deeper. Petra had seen the elves laid to rest, and that was what mattered.

Scolo and Edgar having their moment wander away from the esteemed party of nobles.

Begging for warriors is such a silly thing to a wizard who would teleport a few friends wherever he wanted within sight.

As they wander talking together and laughing Edgar stops. Sir, perhaps he did not know about the demon?

What what? Yes, didn't even seem to know about glass from lightning and he's a glass expert!

I think there is a child, a prisoner, who might know more.

Scolo nods and Edgar flys off, much more bird-like and confident than ever. They seek the boy prisoner.

OOC:

Sorry for the histrionics, This is a thread of Scolo not knowing his own familiar that started way back before I took the character. I have consistently woven it into his insanity and set up a dozen moments for people to recognize Edgar but no one ever does. Everybody ignores Edgar.(except Aelessuria, such a sweetheart but I can't depend on the queen my character Dev) I finally got an excuse where I can pretend he is recognized for what he is.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:00, Tue 03 Dec 2013.

Leiki brings the Elven arms and armor to the assembly he has called.  He can identify it, of course.  But he wants the others to see it.

”Four hundred and fifty years,” he says.  “One gets to know many of the neighbors.  Only a few of these are from my village, but I know the names of most of them anyway.  And some, I have seen as little children.  It is hard to bear.”

Theoderic says,  ”I’ve heard that Elves do not bear grief well, because you must bear it for so long, and you cannot forget.”

”Then you know something of our people,” Leiki says.  “It is why we choose the path of least grief.  Grief tires us, like years tire you.”

Scolo and Edgar go off to find Haldred, but Haldred is in the other thread:  Aquae Grannis.  That thread is not far, in fact it occupies the same time and place… but for non-Elf subjects, which this is.  So that is where they go.

But here, the Elves assemble for a long discussion.  It’s very informal, but polite.  Even when making strong points about living and killing and dying, the Elves sound calm and polite.  They don’t interrupt each other.

Like most Ardennes Elf rulers, Leiki presents and suggests and facilitates, but he does not command.  Ardennes Elves do not believe that anyone has such a right, not even their rulers.

During the assembly, three Elves from Leiki’s clan, Glimmerdawn, seek out the party.  They are carrying large baskets and lay them down.

One has food, because not feeding guests is impolite.  The other… at first, it looks like thousands of crystal glass beads, but then, as Lenra Glimmerdawn holds them up, it is clear:  these are suits of finely made chain armor, but each link is glass.  Small, transparent links, but otherwise just like metal chain mail.

”Two shirts… magic, you see, they will accommodate even a big Human’s body.  And one is barding, for a horse.  Leiki said you should have these, no matter what is decided here.  It is his to give.”

Aelasuria bows her head in respectful greeting giving the new Unicorn a warm smile. "It is a Honor to meet you Canopus." A bit later she nods slightly with a concerned look. "The Huns have employed various traps and tricks in the past. One of their favorites seems to be dangling elvish prisoners to draw in Elvish heroes to slay or capture. I have little doubt that is exactly what they would do with any Delegation our peoples sent to them. If any of the Heayzans still live we will need to make haste to save them."

Aelasuria looks to Theo smiling slightly as she agrees with him. Her first instinct had been to return their family possessions. Though failing that it most certainly would serve well in the hands of others against the Huns.

Seeing the change in Scolo's familiar and his sudden weeping She lightly rests a hand on his Arm. "Scolo are you all right? If you need anything please let us know. Edgar that goes for you too your both always welcome." They hadn't said much so she wasn't entirely sure of the source of his powerful emotion aside from the fact it's directed towards the bond between himself and Edgar. None the less she wished to help him if she could.

OOC: no worries it's good Role Play Scolo. I look forward to seeing more of Edgar and Scolo.

Her eyes soften with understanding when Leiki speaks. Her expression and voice is gentle as she speaks softly. "It is never easy for us. I wish we had all arrived sooner and did not have to bear such news for you and yours."

She patiently waits and attends the meeting so long as they are welcome to do so. She felt it would be rude to do otherwise as it was such a important matter. When the gift arrives she looks surprised and appreciative. "I thank you for your generosity to our people and the effort to defeat the Huns."

As the day sinks into evening, Leiki takes a break from the Elven discussions to update the party on the progress.

“There is wide support for this attack,” he says.  “Mostly among the younger Elves.   I am still concerned.”

Theoderic nods.  “I have felt what you feel, before each battle of the past year.  I know how precious lives can be to you.  My queen is every bit as precious to me.”

“And yet you would risk her life?” Leiki asks.

“It is her own choice, her own courage, and if I did not permit her to do this, her spirit would be crushed.  I could not bear to see her harmed, but I could neither bear to see her confined to a safe home, when her people were in danger.”


“You must know,  we are no secret to the Huns," Leiki warns, changing the subject.  "After the years of conflict, they know we are here.  They will watch the approaches from Marcodurum.”

Theoderic nods again.  “Yes.  And they know we.. some of us at least… are here.  They have scouts of their own.  And they have watched from their outposts.  So I must give their scouts something to see.”

“You have thought this through.”

“That is the best way to win.”

“It is likely we will talk into the night.  But as I said, there is support for you.  You will have our Elven warriors… and it seems, Canopus.  Your war band may camp here, we will provide food.  And you and Aelasuria are my guests, I have a high cottage in our tree, and we use it for guests, sometimes.  You are welcome to it.”

Wrapping an arm around Ayren, Salen does as much to comfort her as he can, though likely as much to comfort himself in the process. Fighting demons was never a matter to be taken lightly - moreso when they knew you were coming. But they are in good company in the demon-fighting department, and the task simply had to be undertaken.

Salen was feeling quite melancholy himself, an emotion he was not noted for, but perhaps he was showing a maturity that had previously been lacking. Whether that was down to all he had fought for, or witnessed, or Ayren, or a combination of all these things...who knew? Certainly not him. But all this talk of grief...it was worse than talk of death, and indeed - as Leiki Glimmerdawn said - grief tires elves as the years tired humans. And so he feels compelled to stand forth and say...well, something. And so he does, addressing the gathered throng.

"We are a disparate group on the surface, it is true. Ardennes Elves, Humans, Lords, Wizards, Werecreatures, Savoy Elves such as myself and my sister, the Queen. We have come from many places, many lands. But we have all gathered here for the same purpose - to defeat the Huns. None of us take even one step lightly, and all of us know the cost of what we ask and do, and the price that must be paid.

We do it, and we do it now, because we must."

Salen does not smile, merely looking about him and nodding solemnly but determinedly. Then he returns to Ayren's side and gets something to eat.

A moment later, he is more like his normal self. Glass chainmail? I wonder if it's see-through? That would be quite the distraction for opponents! Alternatively, I wonder what Ayren would look like in that...
This message was last edited by the player at 18:03, Wed 04 Dec 2013.

When they talk about her Aelasuria smiles slipping a arm around Theo and standing very close to him in a affectionate and supportive way. "It would be very effective to get their eyes looking elsewhere. Possibly even to move most of their forces away leaving them hopefully vulnerable. Theo is likely have more plans then even that."

She nods slightly deciding they had to plan on a late night. "Thank you very much for your hospitality Leiki." She notes her brother being protective and comforting her eyes softening. She wondered if perhaps in due time there might be another wedding in the future. Then her sisterly sixth sense goes off as she see's him eyeing the glass chain mail with that intrigued expression. While it's true she knew her brother well though she wasn't about to punch him in the arm on a hunch. Aelasuria wasn't angry or anything it was just one of those things. Though he might notice she has noticed his woolgathering over the glass chain mail.

Talk of accommodations for King Theoderic, and gifts meant for him and his queen no doubt... Heolstor felt that perhaps his own time here was at an end. Better to make his contribution and leave, than linger somewhere one did not truly belong. He hung at the edge of departing for a moment as Salen said his piece. That one, Heolstor recognized, was a warrior. A claim not all who made war could make with honesty. It took more than acceptance of the life of a soldier.

"I should go."  Heolstor suggested, nodding respectfully to those in attendance before he melted away into the scene's background. He headed to the camp his men and the people of Aquae Grannis had set up, considering how best to prepare for the coming trial.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:09, Thu 05 Dec 2013.

Theoderic calls to Heolstor before the two go their own ways.

“My armor is good.  You’ve earned something here, and more- you could have had your pick of the equipment of Silok’s hall but chose not to.  I have never seen anything like that barding, and your fine horse… I wonder if it would fit a winged horse… take a shirt as well.  If anything, it will be a glorious trophy to display when you are home.”


Then, it being late, he goes one way, with Aelsuria, and Heolstor another, and Salen examines a glass mail shirt with Ayren by his side.   Some of its magic is immediately evident.  One would expect so many little glass rings to be noisy- but they are silent.  One might expect them to have substantial weight- but they are as light as a leather jacket.   Lenra Glimmerdawn, of Leiki's clan is still there, and watches with pride.

The glass mail is transparent but not truly see through- the tiny links distort the light.  It is like looking through a glass beaded with water.  (And of course, one normally wears something under armor.)

Ayren agrees that it is fine armor- as far as she knows, which isn't much- but can't read Salen's thoughts.  Yet.

"Tomorrow will be a long day," she says, looking towards the camp.

In the corner of his vision Salen could see someone watching him. Turning he looked into the eyes of his sister, Aelasuria - and smiled. My little sister, Aela, The Queen. It was still such a novelty, and likely would be for some time to come. He wondered what she was thinking. Most likely, she was waiting to punch him on the arm for some presumed indiscretion on his part, like she did even from when she was a child half his size, but it could have been anything. He frowned - these days she could have him thrown in the cells or banished for eternity, or blast him with a lightning bolt or suchlike. She was a beautiful, talented, intelligent, extremely frightening person to have for a sister, if she wasn't so charming and good. Yes, she's a lot like me, he thought with amusement.

Turning away Salen saw Heolstor ready to depart. Now that fellow, whom he had met but briefly, now there was a Leader of Men. Salen did not have anything like that level of responsibility, but he knew a kindred spirit when he saw one. He nodded with respect to the Saxon, wishing him well.

Then it becomes apparent that he should try one of the glass mail shirts, as no-one else appears to be here to take it or want it, and besides that some of the Elves here are looking at him expectantly. So he picked it up - and the astonishment on his face must have been clear to all. "It is as light as a feather! And not a whisper of sound, as if each tiny link was lined with cloth. Truly remarkable!"

He shook his head and looked up at Ayren. She looked as disinterested as an Elf could possibly be, but then again it was late, and she was also clearly tired. Salen smiled once more, and then swiftly turned and bowed deeply to the gathered throng. "Words cannot possibly give thanks enough for this wonderful mail. I will endeavour to wear it well, and honour the brilliance that went into the crafting of it."

Then he takes Ayren and leads her off to the camp.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:43, Thu 05 Dec 2013.

"You are generous, Theoderic King." Heolstor replied, bowing his head graciously in return. "It was what any man would have done, I'm sure. Some things belong to the dead. There is of course a warrior's right, to take what he wins in battle... But we did not best those elves, and in another time we might have even called them friend." The Saxon reached out to take the offered mail, running a thumb across its fine links appreciatively. Elven magic was at work there - its shifting chain silent as the air on a still day.

"I sent riders out, once upon a time, to learn the disposition of your forces and offer aid." Heolstor suggested, holding the chain shirt at his side. He said nothing of the riders' fate, for it was unknown to him - he knew only that they had not returned. "It is a strange path, that brought us into battle together." One fraught with danger and unexpected allies. Heolstor wondered... Where were Arctos, Cirostis, Dunduin, and Tugdual now? And what of Anakri?

He hoped that no battles rested on their own horizons. Those dwarves had suffered enough hardship.

"... But I am certain this was the way it was meant to be, and that come the morrow another city will breathe freely. Rest well, King Theoderic of the Franks." Heolstor departed then, collecting the barding too - and heading back for his camp.

She thought about Stopping Salen to have a brief word with him. They did have a few odds and ends to talk about. However it's late and she was just fine with trying to catch up with him in the morning. Instead she bids him good night. "Salen before I forget I would like to talk to you in the morning. It can wait so don't worry about it." Her voice is warm and interestingly enough has a touch of amusement. She's probably up to something but he doesn't know what just yet. She couldn't help but picture mother with a smile that would light up the sun. There was no doubt she would pounce the moment she heard her eldest son was in love. You  just couldn't hide news like that, however first she wanted to talk with Salen and be sure.

"I am glad that we were able to meet Heolstor. Theo needs people, allies, like you and perhaps if it's not to bold to say if not yet someday friends like you. Good fortune to you and sleep well." In due time she watches him go speaking softly To Theo. "He's a good man who spoke well of the fallen elves. I like that he was happy to return their possessions to their families. He doesn't distrust my people, he is honorable and I am confident that we can trust him. Though you already knew that didn't you?"

Everyone starts to move off for the night.

”Heolstor is a good man,” Theoderic tells Aelasuria, as he takes her hand and they go off in their own direction.  “He acts with courage and honor, and this is not even his own war.  If there were enough like him we would drive the Huns out of all of Europa.” He runs his hand affectionately across her back.

* * * * * * *

 In the morning, Theoderic musters his forces for the advance on Juliacum.  It is a small but impressive force.  The Centaurs, the Elves that had come with Theoderic from the outset, Heolstor’s riders, more Elves from Marcodum, the “camp workers” from Aquae Grannis, and an assortment that now included two Unicorns.

In total, well over a hundred.

And Leiki has volunteered himself.  He cannot see so many of his folk go, without being there himself.

Theoderic knows where he wants him.  “I said yesterday, we need to give the Hun scouts something to report.  Something credible.  You should go with my decoy force.”


”If you do this for my safety, you do not have to,” the Elf wizard says.  “A wizard is helpful in battle.”

”I have two,” Theoderic says.  “Aelasuria, and Scolo.”  He looked over his shoulder.  It was absolutely essential that Scolo, wherever he was, be as rational as possible this day.  “And the Huns may know that, and they will expect a force with a wizard.  So I need to decoy them with a wizard.  I’ll put some Centaurs with the decoy as well- they’ve done a lot, and they will have a hard time scrambling over a wall, anyway.  The rest of us will leave earlier, to take a more indirect route.  Are we all assembled.?”

In the morning Aelasuria was busy grooming Spica, combing her main, tail, and brushing out her coat. She also tends to her horse very particular and careful about checking hooves and legs to make sure there are no problems. She also helps with breakfast eager to enjoy a quick meal before they ride out.

Smiling at Leiki she nods speaking softly. "I want to thank you and Canopus for coming with us. Your helping is to trick the Huns is very important and I think will make a tremendous difference in how the battle goes. Scolo and I will likely give the Huns far more then they bargained for. He has a surprising variety of unique spells that I think makes them even more effective in battle."

While they are riding she speaks to Spica and Canopus. "Be very careful Spica I want you and Canopus to come out of the battle safely. Remember the Huns are just as likely to go out of their way to get you as me. They like to be nasty and have cunning tricks so let us do the initial fighting. You can always jump in and surprise them at the right moment. Though if Theo says he needs something I guess we will have to take that into account."

The Unicorns size up their role in all this.

Attacking a town is something few if any Unicorns have ever done.

"If you try to run on pavement, do you slip?" Canopus asks.

"I wish Marisol were here," Spica says.  "She is very brave.  She went into a big town once.  I.. I don't know of such things."

Theoderic knows where he wants them.  "You will stay outside, and to the east of the town," he says.  "Until we can get to the east gate and get you in. By then... we will probably need your healing abilities as well as your fighting abilities."

The Unicorns trot off to the Battle Of Juliacum thread.