The Palace of Milath:Great Hall


This message was last edited by the GM at 05:40, Sun 07 Oct 2007.

As Azumi was dragged towards the Palace she could not help but gaze in wonder at the building, such luxury and opulence was beyond her comprehension, it was like something the gods themselves would live.  Had she the inclination to do so, she could have easily knocked the small boy down and tried to flee - unfortunately she lacked the inclination, believing this to be her fate, and silently steeling herself for whatever it had in store for her.

As they reached inside the palace she was led down a maze of corridors and stairs that it made her head whirl until she arrived in a small chamber somewhere below.  He returned a short while later with a jug of water and a cloth and proceeded to remove her filthy rags.

As he bathed her body, she wasn't sure which of the two was the most uncomfortable as she stood head bowed, her cheeks reddening as the wet cloth slowly worked the filth and grime from her body. The boy at first kept his eyes averted, although he soon grew fascinated by the muscled tone of her thighs, as they involuntarily tensed at his touch.  It was his turn to blush as he rubbed the cloth over her breasts, her nipples hardening at the touch of the cold water.

Neither had said a word, despite her desire to ask a hundred questions about this new land, new home and her new master.  Part of her dare not want to know.

As he finished, she pulled her loincloth and dirty vest back on, there being no change of clothes.  He took a little time, Azumi unaware he was waiting for the bulge in his pants to ease before he led her further into the palace, this time heading up stairs.

Pulling on his gloves, Marcus Tiberius headed down the hall. He had been in attendance in a meeting...Something about a trade caravan to Valkandis. He had several prime slaves for the halls of the Sultana, if she so desired. It was fine profit to be made.
And now, apparently, they'd found a slave they thought he would like.
He grinned slightly. He'd never had his own slave before. Instead, he usually sold them. Still, if they thought this one would work...
The man adjusted the schiavona at his hip. He'd had the weapon for years now. More precise than a broadsword, but with more weight than a rapier, it was, in his opinion, an ideal weapon.
All the same, he thought with a grin, the whip worked quite well on the slaves. He rested a hand on the coiled leather slung at his belt, the weighted tips dangling.

Marcus Tiberius, usually known as Master Tiberius, was a tall, thin man with whipcord muscles and a smirk seemingly plastered onto his face. Everything about him bespoke intelligance and cruelty, from the close cut of his beard to the silver ring on his finger, down to the polished leather boots he wore that came nearly to his knees. His eyes glinted with a malicious brilliance. Few knew his history, or they would have thought it obvious why he was as he was.

"Just what do you have here?" he asked the servant. His voice was silky, soft, a bit of an accent. That accent gave away the fact that he was not from Arn. His eyes drifted from the servant and to Azumi.

She glanced at the man, unsure who he was.  Although she began to get an inkling from the boys reaction - who bowed submissively, suprised by the mans arrival.

"A gift ... Master Tiberius ... from ... from ... " he stammered, his nerves apparent. "Master Rolf thought you would like her sir".

As she realised this was her new master, she felt her stomach lurch, but fought to hide her sudden discomfort. She inhaled softly, controlling her breathing and stood silently, gazing back defiantly at the man.

She raised a hand in a fist, covering it with the palm of the other and bowed.

Marcus sneered at the servant's stammerings. "Get out of my sight," he snapped, his eyes sparking angrily. "You may tell Master Rolf that he was right-I am pleased he decided to bring this girl to me."

He watched the servant scurry off, a grin spreading across his features.
"So."
Marcus' eyes turned back to Azumi. "You are mine now, yes? A pity they could not have dressed you in something more presentable. I will hardly allow my servants to walka round in naught but rags. Still, I suppose they dress you in such a way so as to better show what you have to offer, yes?"
He didn't want a reply, and hardly expected one. "Master Rolf will no doubt have already checked your teeth and the like. You appear healthy enough."

The slave master's eyes looked over her body. It was not a lustful gaze, but the gaze of a professional. "No doubt you know something of acrobatics and kick-fighting. Your legs are noticably more muscled than many women's."

Azumi took a moment, sizing up the man, before deciding she would not be showing the same weakness as the young boy, however difficult it felt to find her words.  Her throat and lips suddenly felt dry, and burned with a irrititing heat.

"Yes sir, my father taught me a little ... " she managed, trying her best to keep her voice steady and clear.

"Your father hmm?"
He raised a brow. "At least you have the proper tone. When you address me, you will refer to me as Sir, Master, or Master Tiberius. That is what servants call me, and that is what my slave will call me."
He turned to go. "What is your name, girl? I will not go about calling you slave all day while we find you something appropriate to wear."
He had begun heading down the steps of the Palace, the heels of his boots clicking on the floor. He was obviously disgusted with the cloathes she wore, for he dressed rather well himself.

"Azumi ... sir" she had thought to say master, but somehow it felt wrong.

She hurried after him after a moments pause, at first unsure if she was supposed to be following him or not.  As she hurried to catch up, she quickly fell into step behind him, watching the swing of his sword upon his hip as she strode purposefully before her.

"Brown hair and brown eyes," he murmered as he walked, head bowed. He nearly walked right into another servant, who had to scuttle out of th way.
"Blue dresses, perhaps? Dark blue. Black is always nice as well."
He looked over his shoulder at Azumi. "You and I will choose seven outfits for you, Azumi. They must be respectable in appearance, but also servicable. We will also purchase one good dress for special occasions when I must bring you along."
The man at the doors of the palace was nearly unable to open them fast enough as he strode out. "The market will have something, I am certain."

OOC: To the city

Azumi listened but only nodded, her eyes wide at the splendour of the palace, and also at what she was hearing. An outfit for every day of the week!

She had never known such oppulence, having worn the same clothes pretty much year in year out.

<< To City >>

She was surrounded by advisors and servants as soon as she left her quarters. Sometimes she felt like a parade followed her almost everywhere. She sighed heavily as they opened the massive ironclad wooden doors before sweeping into the room taking a seat upon the throne upon the dias there.

OOC: From the Barracks

"You didn't have a knife to stick me with anyhow," Raynald noted, as he pushed wide the doors. "What would you do, put a fish hook in my jugular?"
With a none too gentle hand, Raynald pushed Crow in front of him, shutting the door as they entered.
"The Empress will review you before the trip begins. Show respect, or I'll ensure that the trip is very long and difficult for you."

She sighed sadly as she was forced to the head of the line by the guards. She was one of Sidi's own personal slaves, and she'd been caught sneaking out to meet with a man...who had turned out to be an enemy spy. The spy had been hanged immediately...and she was brought here for judgement.

She sobbed heartbrokenly. She loved Sidi, but had been tempted by a sexy man with a beautiful face to betray her mistress.

"You'd be surprised by how effective that is, not that I've tried it... yet," Crow smirked in response.  Without looking back at the general, the young prisoner walked on to approach the Empress.  While they were still near the door, he replied with a low voice, "Aye... to the Empress, I'll show respect."

As the youngster made his way, he took in the sight of the Great Hall before him.  His eyes wandered toward the tapestries and statues along the walls.  They continued wandering about the hall, though he kept his head from moving too much.  Several escape plans ran through his head; some plausible while others were downright dangerous... but fun to try.  He decided not to try anything for today and instead enjoy his meeting with the Empress, even if it was as a prisoner.

Once he was before the Empress, he got on his knee and bowed his head.  He did... whatever he was supposed to do in the presence of royalty.

"Your Most Exalted Highness. This girl was caught communicating with a known spy. The spy was captured and executed, by Your order, as You know. This worthless slave is here now for her punishment."

He bowed, then shoved the girl to the floor in front of the steps leading to the dias.

She looked down at the girl with great sorrow upon her face then spoke.

"Tamara. I am sadly disappointed with you. You had the most sought after position a slave can aspire to, and you allowed a pretty face to turn your head, to lead you into betrayal of your Empress. I should have you executed, but I won't. Instead, much as it sorrows me to pronounce your sentence, this is what you will recieve."
"In as much as you allowed a comely male to turn your head, I declare that you will be blinded so you can no longer see. In as much as you desired male companionship over loyalty to your Rightful Empress, I send you to be the pleasure girl for the lowest barracks, with the understanding that they can do nothing to cause you greivious bodily harm. There you will spend the rest of your life. In as much as you spoke things to this spy to betray your Rightful Empress, I condemn you to have your tongue cut out, so that you may never speak to anyone again. This I so Order, So Shall It Be."

She waved the girl and her guards away and sat back down.

Done with the girl before them, Raynald stepped forward, pushing Crow down into an even deeper bow.
"On your knees, worm," he muttered to Crow, while he gave a deep bow.
"Empress, I believe I have found a very suitable gift for your sister the Sultaness. This young man was found within the territories of Arn. When asked his profession, he was able to give none. Thus, we have brought him here, and believe he would be a suitable gift for the Sultaness."

She stared down at the young man, barely old enough to be called a man.

"What do you have to say for yourself? You claim you have no job, no talents, no skills? Be careful how you answer, and think well before you do."

She took a sip of something from the gold goblet that sat on the small marble and pewter table beside her throne as she studied the youth. He was barely older than she was, from the looks of him.

"Your Most Exalted Highness.  I claim to have no job because I do not believe myself deserving to claim any profession.  I can claim to be a mercenary because I was one among a team.  However, since their death, none would seek my services believing me too young and inexperienced for the job... and I don't blame them.  That is why I became a wandering traveller.  I wander because I have no direction and I travel to seek the skills to reclaim my former profession.  As for talent... well... everyone has talent.  I've simply yet to find mine," Crow explained.  "I beg your forgiveness for my ignorance and lack of any true qualities.  However, this is who I am and it would be distasteful to claim otherwise.  Perhaps if I could showed you what I have learnt during my travels, you could judge whether or not I truly lack any skills?"
This message was last edited by the player at 02:59, Fri 09 Nov 2007.

"When my men approached him, Empress, he neglected to say any such things. He also did not state that he was looking for a job within the borders of our kingdom, nor did he state if he were simply passing through. He had no papers on his person, and no identification."
Raynald cast a disparging glance at Crow. "He is obviously a peasant of the lowest order. I suggest we let the Sultaness have her way with him. He has, apparently, a fine voice...Perhaps it will keep him around her harems a while longer."

"Oh? He can sing? Lets hear him sing something. We shall judge if he is suitable for acting as a bard, recorder and archivist for your trip with the caravan. My Sister should enjoy a singer's talents."

She sat back, waiting for the youth to start singing something.

"If it pleases you, Your Most Exalted Highness, then I shall do my best to sing a song for your enjoyment," Crow replied all the while keeping his head down with his hands on his knees.  With his future at stake, he contemplated on singing his best Arnian song... but chose his favourite one instead.  It was a song in Valkandian.  "The song I'm about to sing is called 'The Guardian Night':"

"The nights may seem cold and lonely,
but they're kinder than they appear.
Look up and see the stars and moon,
and you'll know there's nothing to fear.

Sleep and dream like everyone else,
and you will never be alone.
The sheet of darkness up above,
will protect with a quiet tone.

The nights may seem cold and lonely,
but you'll be safe under their care.
Look up and see the stars and moon,
and smile for they are always there.

When you're lost and without a guide,
you can always count on the stars.
Don't forget where the north star lies,
and you'll find your home when it's far.

The nights may seem cold and lonely,
but they're kinder than they appear.
Look up and see the stars and moon,
and you'll know there's nothing to fear."

Even to those who did not understand the Valkandian language could tell that Crow was no slouch when it came to singing.  He always sounded best when singing his favourite songs.  Of course, he wasn't quite as good as a seasoned and experienced bard... but impressive nonetheless.

She listened quietly, noding slowly. When the young man was done, she sat back up and looked at him.

"Very nicely done. Would you accept the official position of bard, and accompany the caravan as it takes tribute to my sister? You would travel there and back, recording anything interesting that happens along the way that has any importance. How do you answer?"

"Oh geeze..."
Raynald hardly wanted a bard on the trip, and wanted this whelp as their bard even less. If he sang so much as a note, the General swore to himself, he'd cut the boy's tongue out. The boy had already pushed his luck too far in Raynald's book, and singing over ridiculus things, which he no doubt would, would push his lukc over the edge.

"Thank you, Your Excellency!  I will be honoured to take on the official position as bard and accompany the caravan to you sister, the Calipha of Valkandis," Crow placed his hands back on the floor and bowed to the Empress.  His smile grew wider as his forehead touched the ground, then changed back into a simpler smile.  "Though undeserving of such a profession, if Your Most Exalted Highness deems me worthy, then I'll happily accept it."

"I will expect you to learn how to keep accurate notes about your trip. You must record all who you meet, what you see, all that happens that might be important. I want you to go see Brother Galen for instructions on how to do this."
"General, please see to it this man gets to see Brother Galen...under guard of course. See to it he learns how to act as well when he is in court. That is all. Next?"

"As you wish, Highness."
With Crow only moments away from not being under his control any more, Raynald was quite ready to have it done with.
"Come, lad," he said, turning to go. "You need to speak with Brother Galen, apparently."
Once he was in the care of the guards, the boy could rot for all the General cared. He had to organize three hundred infantry and one hundred cavalry still, along with their supplies. This new minstrel was spit in the bucket.

"Come here you."
Pulling Shigure along behind him, Marcus came before the Empress.
"Your Majesty," he said, his soft voice tinted with respect. "I found this girl intruding in my room. Naturally, I come before you now to let you decide her fate. I personally suggest cutting off her hand to discourage further thievery."
Of course, Marcus generally suggested rather harsh punishments. The last time he'd found an intruder in his rooms, he'd recommended having the man's tongue cut out for lying about it. That time he'd gotten his wish...Of course, that had been with the Emperor, Sidi's father.

Shigure frowns and looks back at the man, "What?! I took nothing out of your room! I wasn't going to!" Obviously having no idea on etiquette she retorts without waiting before taking a look around the hall.

Her eyes widen as she recognizes the 'white-haired man', "Hey, I was looking for you. I was going to give you the clothes back but I left them somewhere in the Palace."

"Did you in fact catch her stealing, or was she just in your quarters?"

She watched the man closely, not really liking his looks much, but she was trying to keep an open mind.

"Bow before the Empress!" Marcus hissed at Shigure, pushing her down to her knees, ignoring her words hastily shouted.
Looking back up at the Empress, Marcus bowed again. "I found nothing on her person, Empress. When I found her, however, she was attempting to hide from me, instead of stating what she was doing in the palace with nobody knowing why she was inside. I would hazard a guess that she did not come through the front hall. If she had, she would have found who she was after. I say who, because if she was seeking a what, she was no doubt attempting to take it. Naturally, the guards would not permit that, and so she came in through a window. If she had been looking for somebody, she would have simply come through the enterance."

"....." with a smirk on his face, he silently got to his feet and followed Raynald, quite ready to accept his new role as the bard.  He made a mental note to himself to remember to stock up on ink and paper if he wished to record all the events of the journey to Valkandis.  As he walked toward the door, he passed by Marcus and Shigure.

Turning his head back to get a better look at the man, Crow's smirk vanished and was replaced by a frown.  He immediately turned his head back in front of him before the slave trader could notice.  The youngster wasn't entirely sure why, but... he just got a bad vibe from the older man.

"How did you get into the palace? Were you passed at a gate, or did you somehow sneak in? And why were you in this mans room hiding? Was someone chasing you? What clothes were you bringing to who?"

She leaned forward slightly to study the girl kneeling before her.

Shigure gives Marcus a dark glare as he pushes her to her knees, before looking up incredulously at the girl on the throne. She's younger than me! From the reverence the others were giving the girl she knew it probably wasn't a good idea to voice her opinion, and she wanted to keep both her hands.

She remains on her knees and watches Sidi, "I came back because he," she points to Raynald, "Gave me some clothes today and I wasn't going to wear them so I thought I'd return them." She looks briefly over to Ranald before turning back to Sidi, "Anyway, I thought he would be around the Palace because he was organizing the convoy but I knew the guards wouldn't let me in. I jumped the fence and then climbed in through the kitchen window." She shrugs, as if the lack of security didn't surprise her, "I walked around the Palace and when I heard guards coming I ducked into a room to hide."

"Hmmmmm.You do know it is an insult to give back gifts once you have accepted them don't you? Do you have a job? What are we to do with you? Someone who breaks into the palace is a bad thing."

She tapped her chin with her finger as she thought about the girl's crime.

   A young monk walked soundlessly towards the General and Crow, clad in a simple floor length off white robe and yellow sash. The boy was, perhaps sixteen summers at most, his head shaved clean, with a simple geometric pattern of four blue dots tattooed above his forehead. Placing his palms flat against each other, he bows deeply from the waist, his intense brown eyes cast towards the floor humbly.
   "Forgive me for intruding, but I have heard the Great Empress Sidi's command that this man be taken to see Grand Master Galen?  I am a novice of the Temple of Enduring Truth and would be honoured to accompany this one named Crow to meet my Master, since I am returning now myself. Would this meet with your approval, most worthy General?"

   Seeing the General nod his approval, the monk once again bows respectfully. "Thank you, most worthy General, it is an honour to serve. This humble monk offers a prayer that your journey will be a prosperous and uneventful one."
   Turning to Crow the monk bows once more, though not quiet so deeply. "One named Crow, if you will please to follow me, I am sure Master Galen will be quite interested to meet you."

<To Galen and Sidi>

Shigure looks up at Sidi, unsure if she was supposed to answer the questions. Regardless she ventures some sort of explanation, "No, no job really. I do a few things to get by, if anyone wants help and has money. I don't really like accepting gifts, sure I know he meant well but still..."

She looks a bit worried at how everyone is taking this so seriously, she didn't mean to steal anything, hurt anyone. Just have a look around really

Raynald turned around at the sound of the familiar voice.
"You again?" he asked, raising a brow. He looked back up to the Empress. "What she says it true, Empress. She wished to return to her homeland, the lands of your sister the Sultaness. She claims she can fight, and was willing to cook and clean while on with the caravan. I had purchased the clothes for her...I had no desire for her to distract my men in their duties."
No doubt they would be distracted enough once they reached Valkandis.

"Obviously, Lord Zinzer," Marcus began, "she has no desire to join your entourage, or else she would have respected your wished."
Marcus looked back to the Empress then. "Thus, Empress, this young woman is not only an intruder into the royal palace of Arn, but is also among those unemployed within the borders of Arn. I believe death would be an appropriate sentance for the first, and shipment to the iron mines appropriate punishment for the second. However..."
He looked over at Shigure for a moment, then back to Sidi. "Perhaps death is too severe. This is, as far as we know, her first offence. I suggest she be put into my care. It was, after all, my chambers into which she intruded. I am heading for Valkandis as well, to sell livestock with the nobility of that fine land."
"Livestock" was Marcus' term for slaves.
"She will be able to see her acclaimed homeland, at least for a time, and she will make herself useful under my watch."

"Eh?" Crow's attention was on Shigure, Marcus, and Raynald when the novice Monk asked him to follow.  The bard turned toward the novice Monk and smiled once more before following him to see Brother Galen.

<To Galen and Sidi>

She gave Marcus Tiberius a look of dislike, then turned back to the woman.

"I find that you were rude in your treatment of the General, abusing his good nature by letting him buy you gifts then throwing them back in his face. And as for breaking into the palace, that is also punishable. Therefore, I sentence you to slavery, to be put to use as cooks assistant to the caravan, under the orders of Marcus Tiberius here. You will both travel with the caravan to Valkandis, under the supervision of the General here. You girl will dress in the clothes that the General gave you, along with slave collar, manacles and anklets. You will belong to the crown, but you will be under the orders of the slave trader for the next year, to be trained in the proper manner of being a slave, and Court protocol. We have spoken, so shall it be."
"Any more court cases for today? No? Then Court is over for today."
"General von Zinzer, I would have a private audience with you at your earliest convenience."

She stood up and moved toward the alcove behind the throne with her closer advisors, further ignoring the others.

Shigure's mouth drops open and she remains silent. She was not expecting that, not officially. While her life for the past few months could barely be called much more than slavery she still had some freedom, could run, had money, could escape. But she wondered now why she didn’t, if she had wanted to she could have ran far enough that Tor could have never found her. She could have been free. A yearning ache starts in her chest as she thinks about it, she wanted to be controlled… punished… hurt.

She doesn’t move from her  knees, remaining on the floor even though the Empress had called an end to the courts. Tilting her head slightly Shigure looks out of the corner of her eyes at the slave-trader briefly before her eyes fall back to the floor before her. One year of training, shackled and collared. She closes her eyes and a small smile comes to her lips.

Marcus grinned. The sentance was not how he precisley wished it to be, but it was indeed good enough for him.
"Thank you, Empress," he said, giving Sidi a deep bow. He knew the Empress didn't like him...most people didn't. Unfortunatley for most of them, he was not easily replaced. Few knew just how complex it allw as, making sure that everything ran how it was supposed to.
His boots clicking quietly on the floor, Marcus approached Shigure.
"You seem quite happy given the situation, girl," he noted. "Come. We must get you your adornments."

Shigure stands and nods. Her smile was gone, she gives Marcus a blank stare.

"I am ready."

Raynald, hearing the Empress' request, bowed. "If it does not take long, Empress, I can speak with your right now."
It would have to be quick, however. He was still organizing the rations for the trops moving with them. Nearly one thousand heavy infantry, as well as several hundred cavalry. The entire thing was fairly simple, as far as planning went. Overall, though, it was a mess. Organizing horses, food, equipment and the rest for one and a half thousand men took time.

Marcus gave a cynical grin. "You're ready weather you like it or not," he told her, His hand fell to he shoulder, pulling her along.
"Time to get you your collar and shackles, girl."

OOC: To the City

Shigure stumbles after Marcus as he pulls he along, quickly gaining her feet and following behind him closely.

Off to the city!

She nodded then continued toward the alcove beyond the throne, slipping through the tapestry there to the concealed doorway.

"Bring the General to my private office in 5 minutes."

   He watched as the child Empress entered her office, his piercing amber eyes never leaving her as she made her way to the pine wood desk and sat heavily in the matching high-backed chair. She appeared drained, as she often did to him after dealing with matters of state. She was young to have such a burden thrust upon her, yet she had risen to challenge with courage worthy of her royal house. The Astrologer occasionally wondered how different the fate of Arn might be if her parents had lived. Hieronymous wasn't sure exactly where he stood in her esteem, not that it mattered much. His loyalty to her family did not depend on remaining her friend, though he was touched by her warmth. She, alone of all he had ever known in the Empire, did not look at him with disdain. In truth, he did care for her, as much as he could for anyone. Ultimately though, their relationship was based on mutual need, and ancient tradition. Mutual affection was not required.
   Stepping from the dark corner, as if he were made of shadows himself, the ebon robed figure swept forward silently.  Directing his cowled face towards her he whispered her name is his usual quiet voice.
   "Sidi, we must speak child. There are portents of which the Empress should be made aware."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:57, Thu 29 Nov 2007.

She was so deep into what was on her mind she didn't sense the man in the room at first. So, when he suddenly spoke, she let out a gasped cry and nearly knocked her chair over jumping away from the voice! She gasped and looked at him, startled fear turning to irritation as she saw who it was.

"Will you please stop sneaking up on me! Every time you do that, I swear I lose another year of life! You are not a very nice man for sneaking up on me like that!"

She tried not to show that she was intimidated by him sometimes. She knew she couldn't show any weakness or she'd lose authority and respect in many people's eyes. But it was hard trying to act grown up all the time. Sometimes, she just wanted to sit in a closet and cry! It wasn't fair! She should have had time for fun and exploration and play, like the other kids! She envied them so much sometimes, when she watches the other children running around, playing games and having fun! It made hte throat and chest hurt so bad, the wanting to be a normal hid. She sighed and swallowed her sorrow then looked up at the cloaked stargazer.

"So, what do you...have to report today?"

   "Perhaps you should seek to be more aware of your surroundings, Majesty.  One day such vigilance may well save your young life.  More than one of your line has met their end because they did not see the sinister dagger.  The fate of Arn rests upon your small shoulders, child, you do not have the luxury of complete trust."
   Hieronymous features soften for the barest moment, seeing the irritation born of  fear he has caused her.  He could not help being what he was, he knew.  The other advisors spoke poisoned words behind his back; when they foolishly believed his attention was elsewhere.  Yet, unlike the other advisors, he had never lied to any Emperor or Empress whom he had served, and he had served many in his unaturally long life. Though his honestly might seem harsh, it was exactly that, simple honesty.  He was geased to serve the royal line, so long as it should last.  Even if he had wished to mislead Sidi, he could not. 'It seems,' thought Hieronymous, 'that we both have our fetters to bear. Neither of us is truly free, child-queen.'
  "You depend on me to interpret the will of the Gods, your Highness.  Though you may take little note of the passage of planets and moons, comets and stars and showers of fire amid the purple night sky, to me the will of the heavens is laid bare in all its celestial wonder.  The night winds sing of forgotten things, and in the strange, speech of owl and bat there are many secrets.  What pitiable creatures are you, that you are deaf to the tapestry of truth all around you. Gods and angels, ghosts and fiends, they speak only in whispers, Sidi, and so most Arnish are never quiet enough to take notice."
   His amber eyes glowed as he spoke, seeming to look beyond the small room, as if he could see invisible worlds floating before his half hidden face. He turned back with surprisingly swift motion, disoriented momentarily, as if he had just now seen the young Empress behind the desk.
   "The signs are there, your Majesty, the portents are dire. This embassy that you are devising shall begin awaken the slumbering darkness.  The ancient enemy stirs and its gaze will soon fall upon Arn with hate beyond measure. The constellation of the Queen is hidden, lost amid the murky nebula.  The crescent moon, a mystic's moon, is ascending. The constellations of the Wolf and the Serpents-Twisted are both in alignment with the blood red planet ARES.  Such potent proofs of evil cannot be ignored, Empress.  Vile and wicked sorcery is afoot, child, and i urge you to beware.  Choose your ambassadors with utmost care."
   His usually disturbing tones held a deep urgency in them and he gazed unblinking at Sidi.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:07, Thu 29 Nov 2007.

She nodded as she listened, sensing that he was half not there, that he was connected to the world more than most people. She didn't hint to him though that she did hear some of the things he spoke of, and did sense some things in the night skies meant more than she had the knowledge to interpret. She figured that most people would look at her strangely and think she was touched in the head if she told them some of the ghostly things she's sensed. Then she heard him speaking of dire portents...

"What do you mean? You've seen something bad? Am I going to be killed too? I know how dangerous my life is Hieri. I've taken steps to remedy some of my lacks, but you know how hard it is to do things for myself. The advisors think they all know what's best for me, and won't allow me to do for myself. I can only sneak in a few things, if I'm very careful, things to better my chances. Do you know of someone not trustworthy?"

   Coming closer, the Astrologer clutched his robe around him as if he were cold, affixing Sidi with an intense stare, willing her to absorb the meaning of what he was saying.  At her question however, he looked momentarily uncertain, as if searching for the words to answer her.
   "If there is a snake in your midst, my Empress, I have not forseen it.  Are there spies from other lands? Most certainly.  Do they mean you harm? I doubt it.  YOU have ears and eyes in foreign courts, I know that you do. That is, however, not what I am saying, child!  Listen closely!  There are things in this world, young Majesty, that are twisted, ancient, and wicked beyond any mortal ken.  Heed the warning signs, be vigilant..." Tensing his eyes glazed over and his expression was one of incredible sadness as the words tumbled from him beyond his control.
   "Something forgotten stirs, that will not sleep, a secret long buried, a wound far to deep, it hunts like the fox among innocent sheep, a shadow that shall make all of Arn weep..."
   Staggering backwards his eyes close and he puts his hands to his head.  "Please no more."  His eyes snap open and he looks to Sidi with fear. "I beseech you, Empress, watch for the Wolf, Sidi, it waits in the North and it slumbers no longer! Do not ask me more..."
   He bows briskly and steps back into the dark corner and is gone.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:10, Sun 09 Dec 2007.

She starts to say something soothing to him but...

"I will wa... But wait! Hierionimus!?"

She sighed and thought about him for a bit, then called out loudly...

"Next! General Reynald approach now."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:17, Mon 10 Dec 2007.

Having waited his turn behind the strange astrologer and adviser to the Empress, Raynald entered at Sidi's bidding.
"What are your wishes, highness?" Raynald asked her, bowing to her. He thought, of course, that she would wish to speak to him about the caravan, or something similar. Of course, one should never be too expectant of such things.

Straightening from his bow, the ageing General looked to the young Empress expectantly, waiting for her to tell him just what she required of him.

"You will attend me to the wedding tomorrow. See to the proper Honor Guard for the Lady Sadina's Cerimony. How are the arrangements going for the Caravan? Do we have enough horses and camels? Have you sent remounts and replacements out ahead for us in case we need fresh horses and camels? Have you sent outriders out to secure inns and camping grounds along the way, as well as advanced scouts to patrol the area? We will leave at Cocks Crow on the day after tomorrow.Are you looking forward to the trip?"

She ruffled papers on the desk, then handed him a sheaf containing the items to be loaded on wagons and camels and pack horses, and the list of people going from her household, with a few names scratched off, and others added on at the bottom. With it was also all the royal writs needed for traveling and for shelter and remounts along the way, for the General to keep with him as they go.

Raynald raised a brow when told he would escort the young Empress come the morrow. Of course, it might have been expected. As General of the Armies, Raynald was one of the most powerful men in Arn. Still, there could have been others more...diplomatic, surley, to attend her?

"It will be my honor, Majesty," he said, giving her a bow again.
"I will have one hundred of my own personal guard for her honor guard, Empress," he told Sidi. His own warriors, the Grey Knights, were some of the best fighters in the realm. "We've horses and camels aplenty for the trip, with additional mounts ready at every town and garrison between here and Valkandis. Our first scouts have returned as well. There is a slight increase in bandit raids in the area, but they would not attack such a well armed caravan."
Raynald had been working for days now to ensure this was all ready and prepared. He had not been General of the Armies for the last half decade, and a General for the last decade, and never been prepared for such an outing. He had planned such things for armies numbering in the thousands in the past...

"I look forward to the wedding and the trip, Empress," he agreed, taking the sheaf from her, glancing down at the names. Some of these people would be hard put to the rigours of travle, especially if he was in charge of the caravan...

"I expected nothing less than your best General, and you have yet to disappoint me. But you know I had to ask. Report here at 9 am in the morning to escort me to the wedding then. Now, you should also get some rest."

She smiled then waved dismissal to him as she turned to exit the room.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:46, Thu 13 Dec 2007.

"Yes, Empress," Raynald said, repressing a grin. Nobody had told him to go to bed since he was a youngster and his mother was still around.
"Until tomorrow, Empress."
Turning, Raynald walked with sure steps toward his own quarters at the barracks...

She nodded, then turned to head to her quarters to retire for the night. Sadina's wedding was in the morning and she wanted to be well rested.

 She waited in a private chamber on the ground floor. It has great doors that exit onto a private drive next to a great Garden filled with roses and all sorts of fragrant flowers, herbs and fruit trees and vines. There is a sumptuous buffet set up alone the walls with delicacies that every creature would love, from 2 legged types to 4 legged types, and even bird types. She waits for the Heroes. Of course she isn't alone. Sadina and Hieronymous are with her, and guards stand around inside and out.

"Hieronymous, it is good to see you again in your Court finery. You look more relaxed than I have seen you for a very long time! As you can see, I am alone. I cannot say that I miss my dearly departed husband. I just wish I had known that he was a traitor and a scoundrel before I married him. Oh well, he left no offspring or heirs, so I can at least be compensated for having to bear his advances for the last year."
 She stood beside Hiero in a nearly matching outfit, though that was unintentional. Though she did know his penchant for those hues.

 She stepped out of the carriage using Lilbug's knee as he knelt on one leg with the other braced for her to use as a step. She smiled as she rested her hand on his head while stepping down. She headed into the room and did her curtsey to the Empress, then lead lilbug over to the buffet to take a plate of tidbits. She found a chair at a table and started eating, slipping lilbug bits of delicious food as he knelt at her feet in his beautiful gold outfit.

 "This food is quite delicious, don't you agree?"

Au entered the Reception hall. He kept his posture stiff and eyes ahead. he did not wear any uniform, or rank still stripped of his position in Empresses Guard. He avoided Eye contact wit men who had once been his comrades. But instincts were hard to suppress he scanned the room for anyone who looked suspicious, or too interested in the activity of the guard.

"Lady Fairaday." he greeted the noble lady tersely seeming to be relieved to see a familiar face that wasn't one of his former comrades.

"Hello Anu. How have you been? Did they put you up at the inn too? It's nice getting all the best suites upstairs isn't it? Baths and all. I could get use to being a hero."
 She waves him toward their table if he choses to sit with them. They all had been through too much not to be friends here.

"For now I am staying at the inn." Anu replied as he stepped to the side slightly out, of the way and close enough to speak casually. His posture was still stiff, and he did not stop scanning the faces around him." I suppose for a while we will be heroes. Until Som new Threat arises. Then some new hero will be crowned."

"My apologies lady Fairaday. My upbringing is not one that encourages thinking of oneself as  Hero. Only a warrior and a soldier.But I will say that the rewards are far more comfortable than I expected..

"Of course. Enjoy it while you can! Make the most of it, get what you can. You should be able to get free drinks and food for a long time just on the stories you can tell. I do wonder what the meeting is about though. Say did you know who was traveling with us all along?"

 She gave him a searching look at that question, a very slight smile on her face.

She waits the Heroes to arrive on time. It would be impolite to arrive late!

In reply to Fairaday (msg # 68):

" I was not informed." Anu frowned slightly.obviously still not happy with the risk the Empress had chosen to take.Adjusting the ay his belt hung around his wait as a visible sign he was not comfortable with the empress being placed in potential danger."She is the Empress, it was her choice to make. I am just a soldier she was under no obligation t inform me or seek my opinion.


 Though truth be told few do take notice of children unless they are causing problems. They disappear from the minds of all but their parents in a crowd. If she were not Empress She cold walk through the streets in boys clothes and be noticed by only one in one hundred."

 She laughed lightly then.
 "You knew her as Scamp."

"I noticed an uncanny resemblance, and habits even the best training can not hide. Expressions, posture." Anu admitted. Then with a slight smile, and oddity on his usually stern expression. a rare show of true affection for the Empress as a child not as his Empress." She will make a good Empress, "she is already clever enough to fool a man who has known her her entire life for quite some time. I am certain the shadowed one who is always close to her,and his sorcery was also involved. So I am not ashamed it took me a while to see through her disguise.

In the end, I think it was a good experience for her. She saw the Empie from a vantage most never will. The view from the palace is limited.she will know what the world looks like from the street and the vantage of a common Traveler.When  she must make difficult decisions, she will have that to draw on.

The empire brings order, and protection, I am devoted to it in all things. But like any large and cumbersome beast, it can not always see where it's feet are."

Upon entering the reception hall, the first thing the young bard took notice of was the lack of any real entertainment.  There was food, of course, and a few musicians playing in the background, but the song they chose was... well... boring, quite frankly.  He couldn't wait to get up on stage and show off the new songs he wrote during the course of the group's adventures.

First things first, though... as he had been taught during his journey toward becoming a bard, he approached the Empress Sidi.  He flashed her a smile as he bowed deeply in respect.  "Your Most Exalted Highness, as you have requested, I have recorded quite the number of adventures since leaving with the caravan.  I look forward to reciting it to you."

 She looked at him seriously and nodded. This was not really a social event. This was an announcement having to do with the heroes. She glanced over at Hieronymous and Sadina briefly for they were her senior advisors. The trip had taught her a lot, and one of those things was to listen to her advisors.

"I look forward to hearing a recital one day Mister Crow. We will have to schedule one soon. Meanwhile, be pleased to help yourself to refreshments until everyone arrives."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:10, Thu 09 June 2016.

 He frowned at Crow and shook his head slightly.  The young bard had matured since last they met, and the old Astrologer knew THAT, in itself, was no small victory.  He focused his legendary gaze upon the young man, eyes burning like melted gold as he watched him silently and considered.  Perhaps, in spite of his outward exuberance, a deeper wisdom abided in him now.  Perhaps time and travails had tempered the folly of his youth, and forged the raw mettle within into a worthy instrument, or into a rich mixture that only awaited the artisan's skill and attention...

Hieronymous set those thoughts aside for the moment, no easy feat for one so used to ruminating on such things for weeks at a time.  And yet he was learning to let go now, more so than he had ever done in the past.  There was someone more important and he turned to look at her, and gave her his undivided attention.  Sadina was radiant, and there was an inner peace to her that had been long absent.  Far too long.  He reached out and took her fair hand in his.

"You know how much pleasure I derive from such public ceremonies," he said quietly, so only She could truly hear him.  "This imperial finery is far too heavy, and it chafes...". Then his lips curled in the briefest of smiles, a smile she alone had seen, for it was meant for her.  "Yet I gladly wear them, if it means I may stand here beside you, Sadina.  Only you keep me from retreating into the Shadows that had for so long been my solace.  I am...grateful to you that, for i too was alone, but I no longer wish to be..."  He squeezed her hand, gently.  He wondered if this was what it felt like to be... happy?
This message was last edited by the player at 18:46, Thu 09 June 2016.

 "I know it is trying Hiero, but it is necessary if we are to lend credit to Empress Sidi. I think she has grown a lot this year, and is acting less childish and more mature. Of course, we must let her have some fun too. It must be hard to be a ruler before you are fully grown. That year was as much to let her have some fun being a normal child as it was to get to know her lands and people. I believe it did her good."

 When he clasped her hand, her eyes got large, and tears threatened to fall, but by sheer effort she kept them from falling. Her heart filled with happiness that he would allow himself to touch her hand in public. Her lips trembled and a smile played about them.
 
 "I think it did you good as well, defeating your nemesis and getting away from the Palace awhile. I can see in your eyes and demeanor that some weight has lifted from your heart. I am so glad things have gone so well! I want for you to be happy Hieronymous! You have no idea how much I want that for you after so many many years!"

Rinaldo stepped into the Great hall decked in black and stark white silk, wearing a cap with a single long black feather in his wide slightly floppy cap. He did  not look uncomfortable in the jewelry and fine silks although he did look a bit resigned t making an appearance in court.

He waited for Stardancer motioning for her to stand by his side as the entered.He whispered to her with a broad slightly lopsided grin." I'd rather be chased by murderous killers and dark fey than dance with this lot."

"some of these women don't have any use for men at all, and one unaccompanied in court could be ..well eventful. They smile and make polite conversation, all the while sizing up their fellows for a knife to the Kidney or a dash  of poison in the morning tea."

"so my plan is to enjoy myself to spite them. And cut as fine a figure as only a man in the company of the most ravishing beauty to ever step foot off the plains can."

<=== from the royal caravan

Stardancer kept to herself while riding in the wagon they made for her.  She did look about in awe at the structures of the Royal Palace.  When the wagons stopped she got out carefully, she nodded thanks to the guards.  She adjusted her new cloak as others were getting out of their coaches.  She saw Rinaldo get out of the one he was in, she then moved to be near him.  He looked rather dashing all dressed up, though she thought the hat was unneeded.  As he spoke she listened.  When he was done she leaned a bit forward to whisper "Do these women you speak of intend to harm you?  If so I will protect you" Back even before the dark fae attacked them all in the village she, Rinaldo, and those travelling with them to the temple created the ruse of her being his slave and protector.  She would be most proud to protect him.  She also blushed a bit at his compliment.

It had been a while since Motoko wore formal attire, but she knew better than to show up at the palace in her usual protective armor and dusty old traveling clothes.  Fortunately, there were a number of dresses to pick out that they had picked up for disguises over the course of their adventures together.  The swordswoman found the new clothes to be a little hard to move in, but as long as she had her swords by her side, she was comfortable no matter what she wore.

Of course, the first thing she did was greet the Empress with a bow before turning her attention upon... the buffet!  Rarely did she ever have the chance to see so many delicious kinds of food in one place.  She glanced around the room, trying to see if everyone else was already eating.

By the time she was walking over to a table to sit down and eat, her plate was filled with a large stack of delicious food.  She was grinning from ear to ear as she looked forward to devouring it all before going back for seconds.

Motoko noticed that Fairaday was slipping lilbug some bits of food while she ate.  She glanced back at her own plate of food, then over to Petal.  It became obvious that she wanted to try that out as well.  Picking up a piece of pastry, she held it out toward Petal and addressed her like a dog, "Here Petal.  Come here, girl."

As the last few stragglers came on, barely on time, Sadina stepped forward to address the Heroes.

 "There you all are. The heroes. Sidi's Heroes, you may well be known as from now on. Needless to say, much of what you discovered on this last year's travels will remain secret. The fact that the Elves did exist, and that some jealous elven leader was trying to wipe out the human race, causing the fey to attack and undermine the human settlements, and was trying to kill the rulers of all the countries, and that many rulers have some fey or elven blood. In fact, the use of magic, thought mostly to be a fairy tale is not strictly a fairy tale, and is the results of the elven blood bred into the human lines before the elves fled the coming of man and steel and war to another plane. Only a few stayed behind to guard their retreat. And a few stayed behind to try to wipe out the humans who had fey blood. This we wish to be kept secret."

 She looked at them all catching each and every eye in the room. She glanced toward Hieronymous and raised a brow at him.

 "Many of you will know by now that the Empress Sidi traveled with your caravan, to protect her, and to allow her to see her lands, as well as to visit her sister Feyda in the other country. Meanwhile, back at the Palace, the look alike fake empress was battling for her life as several assassins tried to kill her, thinking she was indeed the Empress. With bravery and with the help of Hieronymous and my little powers, we defeated the traitors, the fey, the black elves and the assassins. With your help, we stopped the attacks of rogue centaurs upon the peaceful tribes. We have set an Official with the tribes with the title of Manager of Centaur Affairs to assure no one foments trouble there again. He has an official staff as well. And we saved the life of the Oracle and her attendants. The Empress will not forget what you have done for the country, her kingdom and her sister's kingdom. And indeed all the kingdoms also, for what evil lurks also spreads unless stopped. We appreciate all your heroic actions. And so, we have rewards and gifts of thanks for you."
 She motioned for servants to come in, each carrying small caskets in their hands. They walked among the heroes, and gave each one a box. Each box weighed nearly the same, each contained a variety of items.

"These caskets are my own contribution to reward and thank you for your brave actions. Each is geared to the person who received it, as befitting their station. A slave girl has no need of plate armor and battle axes, and warriors have no need of silk dancing veils and collars covered in pearls. Hence, you each have received the most fitting items."

 She waves toward Hieronymous and the same servants came back in, carrying scrolls for each of the heroes.
"These are from Hieronymous, the Astrologer. I do not know what he has gifted you, so you will have to read the scrolls and discuss anything you don't understand with him."
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:46, Mon 13 June 2016.

 She stepped forward and sent for the Chamberlain to come forward. He carried more even fancier scrolls in his hands, and a small bag. He stopped beside her and waited.

 "Lady Sadina has spoken truly about your bravery, and our need to thank you. So I will call out your names, and you will come forward and receive both my personal gifts, and the Kingdom's Royal Decrees."

 She calls out each name ((You may post you hear her call your name and that you come up for these things.)).

 As the Heroes come up, she hands them Patents of some minor royalty of other, mostly being for the males...Baronetcy and for the females Baroness. And for the slaves, a patency of Esquire. All being regardless of what species these people are ((except of course cats. Cats get cushions, toys and special food.))

 Along with the patencies, everyone also receives title deeds to a percentage of ownership in The Rutting Dragon Inn and Tavern, complete with the suites they are already staying in at the inn. They all also receive an equal ownership of the Island Manor House and lands on the island close to the inn. The lands are between 5 and 7 acres with a large manor house complete with furniture and servants, and several smaller guest houses enough for each and every Hero, including the slaves should they ever become freemen. The earnings from the Inn and the Lands go in equal part to each hero, excepting the Taxes demanded by the city, but exempting the royal taxes for 25 years.

 She shook hands with each person as she handed them their patents and deeds, and a small jeweled pin, each being the same symbol, a budding flower broach in aquamarine, symbolizing them as belonging to the Order of the Aqua Star. This order was created just for these heroes. And last but not least, a ribbon sash of minor royalty is placed over their head and shoulder to be worn at formal occasions.

 "Congratulations to every one of you. Without your help, this world might have been destroyed, as we know it. Please, continue to eat, drink, dance, this private room is at your disposal until the last of you leaves."

 She nods and waves royally then leaves, with her Chamberlain.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:24, Sat 11 June 2016.

"I don't' doubt that you will always be there...No, I was referring to the high ranking women of the empire in general"Rinaldo replied with a smile to Stardancer."My mother ..you know the sweet lady who tried to sell me off as a trophy husband....she's one of them."

Wen called he approached in proper fashion halted just beyond arms reach and knelt with a flourish he had practiced more than a few times. "Your Imperial Majesty, I am honored."

In reply to Motoko (msg # 79):

Petal kept close to her mistress, her silken wrap and other clothing matching her mistresses to let anyone who looked know who she was owned by.she occasionally snuck a smile at Lilbug, or a careful wave as he tended his mistress but not much more.

When she heard her  name being called playfully by her mistress she lost some of her apprehension about being in  the company of the guardsman, the nobles, and more than one very dangerous warrior. She hurried to her mistress and looked up trying to suppress a smile. Daintily taking the offered pastry in her teeth without touching her teeth to her mistress'skin, although her lips did kiss her fingertips slightly before withdrawing.

"Thank you, Mistress." She said with obvious enjoyment of both the pastry and her mistress. Not noticing a tiny dab of cream filling that had managed to stick to her nose.If she had any idea the behavior was considered demeaning by some she wasn't affected by it. Looking as eager to please as ever.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:22, Sat 11 June 2016.

Xi had entered the grand room in her regalia.  As was proper she knealt before the empress and her inner circle.  Once rising she also curtsied  before returning to her companions.  Hearing about an assassination she began to eye others she did not know warily.  She would not let any harm come to the Empress.

Anu came to attention standing with proper respect to the Speaker and then the Empress. He approached when his name was called and received the awards somewhat hesitantly. Obviously not at all sure of what to do with either title or income.

"I am honored to serve at your command, Your Majesty." he spoke after he kneeled and lowered his head respectfully. He rose returned to his place and waited for the others to pay respects to the Empress. While the other rewards seemed not to interest him the small pin he examined with obvious interest as he stood waiting for the end of the formal ceremonies.

The slave boy knelt where he was happiest, at Mistress feet and listened quietly as the Lady Sadina, who had once been his Owner spoke of the strange events that they had all lived through these past months.  Gently he accepted the food from Mistress Fairaday's hand, leaving loving kisses on Her fingertips as he does so.  As much as he had loved Lady Sadina, he no longer pined for her as he once had, and he felt only joy at the happiness she seemed to have found in the enigmatic Astrologer.  For lilbug had found the peace he had always longed for as Lady Fairaday's devoted slave and lover.  He knew now, without question, where he belonged and what his destiny was.  Lady Fairaday was the answer to every question he'd ever had.  She was all he needed, all he wanted.  And no sorrow could live in him so long as She loved him.

He rose, reluctantly and went to collect the reward offered to him.  Although he longed for no title or gold, he accepted, knowing it was something else he could offer his lovely Lady.  He smiled genuinely to the Empress, who he could only see as the Scamp he'd met in the caravan. Still he bowed to her, as was proper, thanked her humbly, and returned to his waiting Lady once he'd received her Majesty's largesse.

He knelt once more before Lady Fairaday, his soft hazel eyes meeting Her's for one moment before he bowed his head and kissed the hem of Her beautiful velvety blue gown, then laid all he had been given at Her boots.

"All I have, and ever shall have, is Your's beloved Lady," he quietly said.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:56, Sun 12 June 2016.

 She wrapped her hands in his long hair, twisting it tightly, using it to draw his face close to hers, and whispered into his ear.

Stardancer waited for Rinaldo to go forth and claim his reward.  Only then when called did she leave his side.  She was a bit taller than the others in the room and could easily see over the others.  She was surprised when she heard her name called and a casket brought before her.  Not totally sure what a deed truly meant or the other items.  Still she knew the Empress was important as were those beside her.  She glanced at Rinaldo when she was called she did her best to walk carefully in the throng of people, slaves and nobles alike.  Once before the three she did best to genuflect before them, raising only when bidden too, then returning to Rinaldos side.  She would have to have Rinaldo help read what the scroll said, she believed it would be written in the tongue of men.  The pin and sash, for the party she put on and helped Rinaldo put his on.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:40, Sun 12 June 2016.

The Royal Astrologer stood up at Lady Sadina's words and regarded each of the Heroes in turn, slave and Lady, warrior and rogue, to one and all he gave the unwavering focus.  His midnight robe seemed to flow about him, as if moved by a gentle breeze.  he looked at them from beneath his heavy cowl...then he turned and glanced at Lady Sadina; to everyone's astonishment, he pulled his cowl back, letting the light in the place bathe his face for the first time in many MANY years.  His features were youthful, tousled dark hair, a face that most would have called handsome, though pain was written in the lines that creased at the corners of his golden eyes and furrowed his brow.

"Much, that was, is gone, and will not come again.  It is a new world now, a better one for us all, and for that you have earned my gratitude."  He looked again at Lady Sadina, and his features softened, and the care graven on his face seemed to melt away.  Turning once more to the Heroes, he continued his thoughts.

"And so I have given each of you a gift of my own, which are but a small token of what I owe you all, for you have given me a treasure, greater than any of you could possibly understand.  Peruse these scrolls at your convenience, and may they bring each of you some measure of what you seek.  I am at your disposal, should you require help with them, though I doubt very much you shall.  You have faced terrors few mortals can imagine, I think a simple scroll holds little peril for you."

If one did not know the grim Astrologer better, one would almost have sworn they noticed a hint of merriment in his eyes as he nodded respectfully towards his Empress, then resumed his seat and quietly took Lady Sadina's hand again.

OOC: For each of you your scroll has something unique.  Send me a private message and we will discuss it.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:49, Sun 12 June 2016.

The little grey kitten could smell the human food as soon as the cart stopped moving.  Her little nose poked out and she leapt from her hiding place in search of her meal.  There were many two-leggers about.  Darting under other carriages and skirting many of the humans in metal suits.  She managed to follow her nose to where the most wonderful smell was.  There was a table with many trays upon it.  Two-leggers stood about, ignoring her, not that she wanted to be watched at the moment.  under and between, staying close to the wall she made her way to the table.  Her nose taking in so many scents and aromas.  She soon had gotten to under the table.  She sat and licked her paw as she thought about how to snag her meal.  Moving out a bit she looked up to see how far she had to jump.  As if to test the wind she lifted a small paw then moved into her spring starting pose and let loose.  in a second she was on the table.  She now saw her target, shrimp that had bee speared on a stick.  She batted it quick and then could see a young boy coming after her.  It was too late in that she snagged the skewer and had it in her mouth as she then jumped down and back under the table to eat her prize.

 She walked over to the table and bent down, lifted the cloth and looked under.
 "Hello little one. You do not need to steal food. There is a table set for you too. Come, follow me!"
 She stepped around the table, between the big table and the wall and led the kitty to a low platform loaded with dishes of small bites of food fit for kittens and coons, and any other small creature that accompanied their pet parent.
 Ham, chicken, sausages, fishes, shrimp, eggs, you name it, it would probably be there.

Little Kitty was already half way done with one shrimp when the light hit her again.  Her head turned, wide-eyed.  Instantly she backed up the stick still in her mouth.  When she realized the tall woman was not going to take her meal she hesitantly decided to follow her.  The kabob still being carried even though the stick was now broken a bit.  A few of her kitty friends were there already.  She looked up at the tall two-legger a moment then looked at the bowls of food again.  She moved to that table.  Humans were so....obstinent to train.

 She smiled and shook her head as she walked away. The kitten was adorable and would lead the persons who adopted her a merry chase one day.

In reply to Stardancer (msg # 88):

"Well now, that is a fine look for you." Rinaldo adjusted her sash with a smile then his smile broadened as he read the scroll, from Hieronymus and this is a bit of very potent magic. The sorcerer he can grant almost anything. Even change the very nature of a person to a certain degree. Such as the way I can change shape.It wold be possible to be a man, a bird, even a centaur if you knew the right magics."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:02, Sun 12 June 2016.

Azeal approached the Empress in confident stride his face and head bared in respect to the young ruler. His cloak flared as he knelt before her without any sign of hesitance. "Rule well young one."

 "Heed the words of a prince fallen into disgrace. Always put first in your contemplations the good of the many, and consider the consequences of your actions. May you be long remembered as a just and wise ruler who brought only prosperity and peace to your realm."

he rose quickly bowed again and retreated to his place among the others.

"Of course, thank you, Your Majesty," Crow replied with a simple nod and a bow before excusing himself.  Taking the Empress's suggestion, the young bard walked over to pick up some refreshments for himself.  He poured himself a drink before walking over to join Motoko at the table.

It was at that moment that a familiar-looking racoon poked his head out from his master's hood.  The little critter looked around before jumping out from his hiding place and onto the floor.  Upon hearing Fairaday mention a table set for kittens, Cooper skittered over toward the low platform.  He joined the little kittens there, nibbling away at some of the small bites of food.

As soon as Crow's name was called, he approached the Empress once more.  He wasn't entirely sure what to expect and was surprised by the award that was bestowed upon him.  He certainly didn't expect a patency of royalty.  He bowed politely and said, "Thank you, Your Majesty.  Thank you for this honour.  I will not let you down."

The young bard addressed the Lady Sadina as well, considering she had also contributed some of her wealth toward the rewards.  "Thank you, m'Lady."

Perhaps the most surprising gift of all was the scroll given to him by the Imperial Astrologer.  Crow opened up the scroll and... stared blankly at it, not entirely sure what to make of it.

"Uh... thank... you?" Crow glanced up from his scroll long enough to bow respectfully to Hieronymous.  He turned the scroll upside down... turned it around... turned it sideways... then used, "Read Magic."

He looked up toward Hieronymous and said, "I'm sorry.  I... I don't understand."

Stardancer thought about what Rinaldo said about the scroll.  To her it was like being told she could ask for the moon and have it.  Still she thought what good would the moon be..She would have no place to put it and no one could enjoy it.  She waited until the others allowed the opportune moment for her to go and speak with this master of mystic arts.
When it appeared she approached, not hard to miss as tall as she was.  Politely she knealt then rose slowly "My apologies Master Mage.." her voice gentle and quiet "I did not understand your gift before.  Please forgive my ignorance.  I do understand now." She glanced about a bit nervously, unsure if this is what she was to do.  Another half step  she leaned and whispered into the mages ear her request and hoped for approval , after whispering she took a step back to await a response.

"Good girl.  That's a very good girl," Motoko couldn't help but giggle happily as Petal kissed her fingertips.  She reached out with her other hand and gently stroked her pet's hair.  Her tongue flicked out to wet her lips as she watched the auburn-haired slave girl withdrew and thanked her for the treat.  Motoko giggled again at the sight of the tiny dab of cream on Petal's nose.  She reached out and scooped it up with her fingertip before bringing it to the submissive girl's lips.

When the swordswoman's name was called out, she snapped to attention.  Taking her attention away from her toy, she wiped her hand on her napkin before approaching the Empress.

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Motoko bowed respectfully to the Empress.  She smiled at the memory of seeing this very same Empress dressed like a commoner not long ago.  Of course she remembered Scamp's face and the adventure they had together down in the labyrinth.  There was no doubt that her highness will indeed rule well, justly, and with wisdom.  She wasn't sure how to feel about receiving a patent of minor royalty, considering she was supposed to be traveling on her path of swordsmanship.  Did this mean she was a Baroness, now?  She didn't have to abandon the journey she was put on my her Shisho, did she?

The swordswoman also remembered to thank Sadina and Hieronymous for their contributions to the awards.  After thanking the imperial astrologer, Motoko opened up the scroll she had been given to see what was written inside.

The Royal Astrologer turned his attention to the obviously confused Crow and nodded as if he expected his question, then he replies with surprising warmth:

"I wouldn't have expected you to, Master Minstel.  I shall put it to you this way:  Not everything is what it seems at first.  Sometimes you need to look at things in a different light.  This is one final test, Master Jackdaw, the last one I ever intend to give actually.  Come to me when you know what this scroll means and we will talk."



Hieronymous regards Stargazer gently, then nods, a smile lighting his face as he responds:

"Please, there is no need for apologies.  It is a gift that requires some forethought.  You are far from ignorant, child of the Hoofed God.  You may consider your request happily granted, Stardancer.  I do also hope you enjoy the boon I have granted Lord Rinaldo as well.  Is there any other way I may help you?"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:37, Sun 19 June 2016.

Clad in a splendid silk dress with a low decolletage, that seemed far too rich for a mere slave girl and yet seemed to put her gorgeous, shapely body on display for all to admire, Sparrow watched the proceedings quietly, feeling thoroughly out of place. They were all heralded as heroes, yet she hardly felt like one, weak and gentle creature that she was, unable to fight effectively and limited to singing and encouragements. The lavish rewards felt excessive to the beautiful young woman, but she dared not refute the word of such important people, and so she accepted the gifts quietly and tried to make herself forgotten, just one more decoration for the opulent room.

Finally, after weighing the question for a long time, she dared to approach the Astrologer and stood to his right, while he spoke with the others, looking down humbly with her hands clasped before her, and waiting to be acknowledged and spoken to.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:11, Sun 19 June 2016.

In reply to Motoko (msg # 98):

" Thank you ,mistress." Petal smiled and then happily licked the cream filling from the offered fingertip. When her name was called she looked up shocked and confused, then approached timidly she was so nervous she could barely babble her thanks and then rapidly retreat standing slightly behind her mistress as if hiding from the world behind the swordswoman.

"Mistress, I...what do I do with these..I..." She asked with a comical look of confusion on her face.Blushing bright red as she looked at the scroll that held her name and the title Esquire." Mistress is it alright for me to take these. I belong to you so These should be yours."

She smiled softly in gratitude "No..not at the moment atleast.  Though If during this celebration if we have a chance...I would not mind learning more of this marvelous place." She knelt again then backed away that others could benefit from his council.

After a few moments she returned to Rinaldos side.  "Master Rinaldo?  Do you believe your mother would be here?" she asked.

In reply to Stardancer (msg # 102):

" I doubt it," Rinaldo replied. With a strange look on his face. Then smiled." Wrong time of the year for her to be away from the Estate, for all the faults she is very attentive to the matters of a working estate."

Taking a glass of wine he offered it to Stardancer." We definitely should have a look around the Palace some time. I've heard it's spectacular. Of course not nearly as Interesting as The Imperial Museum of Fine art but quite lovely."
the last part of his sentence was spoken in a comical version of a haughty, slightly pretentious, matronly tone as if quoting someone he had heard too many times" Although the gardens might be a nice place to stroll I'm curious to try out the Master Astrologers gift."

She thought of what he said.  "I..I should not partake too much wine.  It tends to make centaurs to become ungainly and I have seen many injure themselves walking" though she accepted it "Still.. I..suppose it would not be so bad if I sip it slowly." She flicked a bit of one of the feathers he wore out from under his collar where it was caught.  A gentle finger caressed near his ear.  "A walk in the gardens sounds wonderful if we are allowed, perhaps we can before this celebration calms down"

"A few glasses would be safe. and four legs work far less effectively when you have had too much. I've seen one of our stallions after he got into a fermenting vat full of grapes." Rinaldo tried to suppress a chuckle." I think he had a headache for days."

he quickly risked a kiss on her hand and then took it in his." Let's see what's over here. I believe the rose gardens are that way."

While he walked with he sang, not one of is usually bawdy and raucous tunes, but a soft sweet melody he remembered from his youth. Absently he gave one rare kind thought to his mother for insisting he learned to sing.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 22:31, Sun 19 June 2016.

The old Astrologer notes Sparrow waiting awkwardly for the chance to address him. He nods to her, gazing into her eyes with a look that is far kinder than she has come to expect from him.

"Yes, Sparrow.  You have been patient, an admirable trait.  Come then and ask your boon, for I am eager to give it, and I am curious to know you will ask."

The slave girl hesitates, eyes still demurely cast to the ground. "My Lord Astrologer, I..." She hesitates again, barely conscious of the fact that she is doing so, as if she is performing some great effrontery. Then she speaks more decisively. "I bear the mark of a betrayer, marring my face. I've never believed it was fair, but now..." Her hand goes to her cheek, tracing the pattern. "Given all that has been said, about us being heroes and all, I am not sure that it is still appropriate for me to bear this..."

"I've read enough stories about this sort of thing to know that there is a deeper symbolic meaning behind this scroll," Crow replied with a lackadaisical shrug.  He already had a good idea as to what would be expected of him, but he did not have complete confidence in the answer he intended to give.  He bowed to Hieronymous and said, "Thank you for the gift.  I will be back momentarily with my answer."

A blank scroll.

A blank slate.

There was a story like that, wasn't there?  One he had heard long ago, when he was still just a child.  Just like stories, there were many ways to interpret the message behind this test.  Was he meant to answer that true power was only limited by the imagination?  Perhaps the true answer was that real magic comes from within, not from scrolls and books.  Perhaps the blank scroll was only meant as a reflection.  That, like this blank scroll, the student's mind was waiting to be filled with knowledge.

... Didn't all those essentially mean the same thing?

Before long, Crow returned to the Imperial Astrologer.  He bowed respectfully and said, "Though a blank scroll may hold many different kinds of meanings, I can only interpret this scroll in one way.  Like this blank scroll, I am ready to be filled with any knowledge you'd be willing to pass on... assuming I haven't misinterpreted your message and you really are willing to take me on as your disciple."

Hieronymous cups Sparrow's chin and turns her face so he can look at the offending mark. "I quite agree, Sparrow, you ARE a heroine, whether you believe so or not, and that mark is no longer true.  I am happy to remove it for you."

Sparrow can feel a warmth, like sunshine on her face and Hieronymous lifts a silver mirror to show her the mark has gone.

"There now your face is as fair as your heart, little one.  Is there anything more I may do for you?"

-------------------------------------------------------------------



The old Astrologer's eyes glisten with a strange light and looks away for the briefest of moments.  When he looks back at Crow, he smiles and nods to him.

"My faith is not misplaced; I am well pleased Master Crow.  My offer to you is this:  I will teach you what I can, that which you will need to know, and that which you are willing to learn.  And, when the time is right, if she approves, you will take my place as her Imperial Majesty's chief advisor.  I have little doubt that she will approve.

I am old, Crow, and it is time for a new perspective.  I believe you will make an excellent advisor and that you will give this role the respect and care it is due.  Sidi will need someone in the days to come who she can absolutely trust, someone who is not afraid to tell her when she is in error, but who can also allow her to learn from her own mistakes, with grace and kindness.  I think you can and will respect her for who she is, and gently guide her in a wise direction...better than I have done.

I will understand if you refuse, and will harbour no ill will for your decision.  It is not a task to be lightly considered; please take your time, and when you have reached a decision, I will be here awaiting your reply."

Hieronymous glances towards Lady Sadina and slips his hand back in her's once again.

----------------------------------------------------

Motoko unfurls the scroll and reads her message...
This message was last edited by the player at 00:20, Sun 26 June 2016.

Stardancer followed Rinaldo out to the garden area.  A few people were there strolling past in the hall, much of the doors had guards on them to prevent people going where they should not.  "Master Rinaldo?  Have you thought about what you will do now?" she knew she wondered.  Becoming one to lay about on an island was not something she wanted to do the rest of her life, neither was to merely serve others drink to quench a thirst.  Truth was the past year has made her want to wander even more of the lands far from her home.

 She stood by Hieronymous accepting thanks and watching the heroes come up to speak with him about their scrolls. She was very proud of Hiero, and happy that his spirit seemed so much lighter and happier than it had been for decades, and probably centuries. She hoped he truly was lighter of spirit and harbored less guilt over things that happened so very very long ago.

 She smiled down at Sparrow when she came up and shyly asked for help with her brand. Then when Crow Reeds came up, she glanced at Hiero as if to check if he was joking about Crow taking his place someday. He would have a lot to learn from Hiero if he was to help Sidi. She gave Crow a severe look. If only he knew what a special gift he was being given! Hiero had never accepted an apprentice since she had been his a few decades ago. She knew that it was not likely that Crow would learn some things from Hiero the way she herself had. She grinned then and winked at Crow.
 "You are indeed honored greatly that Hiero has decided to teach you Young Man! Do not you waste his time, but learn well and quickly! The kingdom will depend upon you."

Sparrow stroked her own cheek, where the brand was gone, and smiled softly at her reflection in the mirror. She curtseyed to Hieronymous. "You have my thanks, my lord. I would not abuse of your generosity by asking you for more. I shall leave you to more important matters."

In reply to Petal (msg # 101):

The young aspiring Kensai pondered about the scroll that she had been given.  Could she truly ask for anything?  If so... what could she possibly ask for?  The point of her travels was to gain the experience necessary to become one of the strongest swords in the land.  No spell could possibly provide her that.  Even if such a spell existed, taking a shortcut like that seemed... no.  She doubted that was what the Imperial Astrologer meant.  She was going to have to think about this more...

Her thoughts, however, were interrupted when her slave approached with the scroll and patency for the esquire title.

Motoko had only one response for Petal's question.  She held out her arms and pulled the slave girl into an embrace.  She gently stroked the other girl's hair before pulling away and giving her a gentle smile.  "I'm proud of you, my pet.  You are quite right that you belong to me and I'm very happy that you have managed to obtain such high praise and reward."

The swordswoman held out her own scroll and title of Baroness.  "Of course, it would be redundant to hold two titles at once.  You'll have to hold onto the one that was given to you, Esquire Petal.  Hieronymous is a wise man, so I trust that scroll you've been given will find more use in your hands than mine."

"You've earned these.  It's only right that you're the one who gets to make use of them," Motoko continued as she placed a kiss upon Petal's forehead.  Suddenly, she grabbed the other girl by the front of the collar and gave it a sharp yank before whispering in her ear,

Petal blushed and smiled happily as her mistress spoke nodding in response, looking as if she were trying to put things in proper order in her mind.The kiss on the forehead only deepened the shade of her blush to a shade not seen in public before.

"Yes Mistress. Of curse. I'd be happy to use them as you instruct." She let out a small yelp as she was yanked up, nodding rapidly as she listened to the whisper.  She dropped her head slightly in respect."Of course Mistress. I am, and always will be yours."

Her slim body shivered slightly, as she was roughly handled by the powerful woman not entirely out of fear, there was also excitement and arousal that mixed in with the fear to make the shiver more intense. Silently she prayed to any who listened to lowly slaves that her response to being roughly handled was noticed only by her Mistress.

In reply to Stardancer (msg # 110):

" I doubt our life of ease will be long lived." Rinaldo sighed as he walked. Enjoying the sights and the company." They don't often award titles and create an order for these they plan to allow to retire to their estates."

"I'm sure our feet will soon be wandering again." Rinaldo paused and looked up at the sky, and picked a flower offering it to Stardancer." Anytime you wish you can be on your way wherever you decide to travel. I would be very happy if spent some time with me first.. I am rather happy when you are about."

"To be honest, since we were interrupted back at the clearing I have had you on my mind, and I'd be lying if I said you hadn't found your way into my roguish heart."
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 01:51, Tue 05 July 2016.

She blushed and let a hind hoof shift a bit "I would be lying to you and myself if I said I had no feelings for you.  Not just as a companion as the others, but something closer.  I worry for you when you are elsewhere." She took an almost hesitant step closer to him.  "Perhaps the Oracle meant for us to find each other at the gates that day.  I cannot help to wonder if their wisdom to show ..my old master... humility and learn kindness.  My life with him would have left me despondent.  Your humor and joy for life...it lifted and still lifts my soul.  I know I could somehow return to my herd, however I do not want to miss seeing your face and the sound of your voice." not one to be overly bashful she decided to take a brave chance after hearing his words and the outpouring of her own.  She leaned down and forward and kissed him.  Not quickly, but as one should kiss one they care about, with passion and gentleness.

 Rinaldo shifted a bit himself as she spoke, His ears becoming a bit war, and he had a hard time keeping the most boyish of smiled from coming to his face as she spoke. In truth, he was a bit of a magpie from birth raucous, and often irreverent, but the cocky self sure posture and to the hells with care expression vanished replaced by a man nervous and elated at hearing his first love speak.

The kiss took him by surprise but he  returned it  with equal passion and had no care for anything but the moment he was in. When they finally parted lips he blinked and looked as if he had taken a large gulp of potent liquor for a moment.

"It's said that since man first learned to kiss there have been five perfect kisses, Now there are six."Rinaldo Beamed as he spoke."Thank you for sharing it."

"The God  of doorways cursed me for arrogance and conceit," Rinaldo admitted with a smile." I shall thank him for that curse, and call it a gift. If I knew which god to thank for you I would build a shrine, to them and thank them daily."

As he spoke, and in the passion of the kiss, he had not realized the gift scroll from the astrologer had crumbled to ash and dust, it's purpose fulfilled."I will never regret having you at my side, or the path that led me to the place and time I needed to be at to meet you."

I have never loved anything or anyone. But I think you have won my heart. It's yours for the taking"

"No...No one can take what is freely given.  But I will accept your heart if you will accept mine that I offer" She smiled brightly.  In the sunshine of the flowers of the pristine garden she moved to kiss him again, The warm scented breeze making the moment nearly magical.

Having long finished her stick of shrimp, little kitty searched among the various dishes she saw.  Watching the others at the table.  She wanted something.  Thinking she licked a paw clean.  She wanted food from the tall, two legger table..that's what she wanted!  Coyly she sauntered from her companions there at the short table and began eyeing the big table.  Two leggers always have good food...the shwimpies was proof.  What they ate was always much better than what the others got, and now she was having to eat more.  Soon she'd have a few more mouths to feed besides her own.  She watched the flow of two leggers to figure the best way to get to the wonderful smells up on the tall tables.

It took Xi a long time to think of what would be most beneficial.  Finally when she managed to think of what that might be she approached the royal astrologer.  With a polite genuflection she quietly asked if what she wanted would be appropriate.  What she began to ask for was a warriors mount.  A steed of steel, fortitude, and grace.  One designed for battle.  A rare Romany elven horse...If they stll existed.  She hoped that they did.  A blend of grace and strength.

"accepted Gladly." Rinaldo replied with a soft smile.He accepted her kiss, and took her hand afterward."We must look a sight, both smiling ear to ear and trying not to trip over our own feet."

The Astrologer nods to Lady Xi.  "There are elven horses still in the world, though they are exceeding rare.  Perhaps one could be found and persuaded to consider you for a companion.  Such animals are extraordinarily intelligent, Lady Xi, and they accept only one person to ride them.  I will ask Lady Sadina to assist me in finding an elven steed, and then we shall see if you can persuade him, or her."

She knew such would be most difficult to have one just handed over.  They were intelligent she knew but, there could be a solution "Master Astronomer...I ...if I may be so bold here...I like the solution" She stated calmly "As you say, they are intelligent and noble, and loyal to it's rider.  For you to obtain one for me I believe would make such a remarkable creature loyal to another than I.  You say they do still exist.  Then if I may, my request stands ... Where would I begin that I might find such that I may see if I am worthy enough to obtain its friendship and loyalty" she asked, after all the most miraculous of things such as friendships, love, and loyalty would be worked at with great fortitude and effort.  It seemed the astrologer agreed to that as well

Crow's eyes immediately widened when Hieronymous offered not only to teach him, but have him one day take over as the Empress's chief advisor.  That was probably the last thing he ever expected.  He never once thought of obtaining a position of such... great responsibility and importance.  He didn't think much about his future any further than adventure and fun.

This... was a crossroads for him.  His immediate instinct was to accept the offer, but there was hesitation gripping his mind.  Grabbing hold of his jaw and keeping it closed.  Teeth clenched, he wondered if he really should accept.  What was wrong?  He normally dove headfirst into uncharted territories like this.  It was no different than when he accepted the position of bard not so long ago...

No... this was different.  Clearly.  He accepted the position of bard because the alternative... there was no real alternative.  Now... he was given a clear choice.  He was being entrusted.  For the longest time, as a wandering traveler, he became accustomed to being underestimated.  For the first time in a long time, someone of great importance was not underestimating him in the least... but was he instead being overestimated?

Maybe Hieronymous was right about taking time to consider and reach a deci-

"I accept."

Before Crow realized what he was doing, those words flew out of his mouth.  He was surprised, even though he was the one who said those words.  A small grin appeared on his face.  Wasn't this how he had always done things?  Spontaneously and without a care in the world?  No... not without a care.  Simply... resolute, completely sure, and confident in his own decisions.

A Cheshire grin etched across the aspiring arcane disciple's face.  "I am honoured, Master Hieronymous, for someone of your position and power to have such faith in my abilities.  I accept your offer and I promise, I will prove that your faith in me was not misplaced.  I will not let you down."

Crow lowered his head and bowed, humbled by the great challenges that no doubt awaited him in the near future.

Sparrow quietly moved away from the Royal Astrologer as he spoke to other, more important people, still rubbing her now pristine cheek in amazement. Unsure what her place might be now, she wandered briefly before reaching the table that had been laid out, apparently, for cats. She chuckled to herself and approached to coo at the cute kittens. One of them seemed disinterested in the food and was watching the people so she quietly approached that one and scratched her neck.

"Well hello there."

" It's good to see you without the mark." Azael Bowed his head slightly to Sparrow as he spoke. Then smiled as he too reached to stroke the kittens milling about." You have had quite an adventure since we first met. I am glad it as given you some relief from your plight.

I hope the Astrologer also released you from that bothersome curse. It seems to me that perhaps they could consider the price for past deeds paid in full."
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 08:37, Wed 13 July 2016.

"Hello Azael. I am glad to see you well." The beautiful slave girl smiled at Azael and stroked the kitten's neck. "I did not ask the Astrologer to do more than remove the brand. It already seemed like a lot to ask, wouldn't you agree? How have you fared?"

" It seems the fallen prince has become a Noble once more." Azeal replied with a hint of wry humor." A man in good standing of the empire he once rebelled against."

"And the empress has kindly returned what was taken from me when I rebelled. A few reminders of glory long faded. " Azeal moved his arm the deep black of the cloak he wore shimmering into dark vapour around the edges cloaking him for a brief second in shadows, and smoke, sprinkling desert sand on the polished floor.


Sadly I can not yet return home, the sentence my own people imposed is not one the Empress can remove. I seem to be fated to stay here for a few more years.At least I have fair company for my stay."

Sparrow smiled brightly, lighting up her face. "That is fantastic news!" She gave the newfound prince a deeper curtsey. "A wealthy man once more. No more guarding little slave girls on sketchy caravans. And that is a most impressive cloak. You cut a suitably regal figure in it, I assure you. I hope you fill find the city to your liking. It is a vibrant place, from what I have seen of it."

I am sure it is a city worth seeing." Azael agreed and motioned toward the city beyond the wall."I have no doubt my skills will be needed and the city will see to it I am occupied.I am curious though. What do you plan to do in such a place?"

Sparrow hesitated, then looked down humbly. "Whatever my master wishes for me to do. Is that not the loyal slave's lot?"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:25, Mon 11 July 2016.

In reply to slave girl sparrow (msg # 131):

"that it is." Azeal seemed to approve of the reply. He looked about to the rest of the group. There are several very loyal, and devoted servants in our group. I doubt we would have succeeded so well if they hadn't lent their own expertise to our problems."

" trusted slave is more valuable than most possessions a man can acquire. They have no reason to lie, or to deceive, and will always answer truthfully.The empire retains an army of loyal janissaries for that reason. they answer to no one but her."

"Any who gains you may be the richer for it. I must admit I had my doubts that you would adjust when we first met. Arcane tricks can force obedience, but not devotion. But you seem to have adjusted well. No doubt you will serve well, until the gods or the empress or your master decides to give you back your freedom. I might even find myself envious if such an emotion was still within me."

Sparrow chuckled softly. "I have had little choice but to try to adapt, though that too is the slave's lot. Still, I feel I am not nearly as expert as you think me. Oft I wonder what is my place and how I should act. I have never been taught, after all." She shrugged."I know not what will befall me now, truth be told." She scratched the kitten behind its ears. "If you are envious, well, you are a man of wealth now; I am sure you can find a loyal and beautiful slave to serve you, should you wish."

In reply to slave girl sparrow (msg # 133):

" Well then your time is well spent by considering both how to adapt, and what your place in the world is."" Azael nodded and examined the kitten for a moment. No doubt I can have my pick a baron would be a customer sought after by many flesh merchants. truth be told,I detest those little toads I'm tempted to part their heads from their bodies all too often. and the markets are filthy places full of desperation and despair...a foul place to find anyone worth having."

"While I would be eager to acquire you for both beauty and charm, I am not certain of your ownership at this point. I do recall someone holding your leash a while back,although I haven't seen him in some time.."

None seemed to mind her.  With strong legs she leapt to the top of the table.  Oh a wonderous feast!!!  All the two legger foodies!!  Careful and delicately she sauntered around tall spires of foodies.  Of all things she spied a tall spire of what smelled like ...like liver!!  Bestus stuffs.  Strolling a bit, attracted by its spiced scent.  No one would miss a bite ..or two.  A gentle tasting she felt is smooth texture on her tongue.  It tasted soo wonderful.  In a few moments she made an indent on the side from eating it, thin wafers surrounding it fell to the table and a few to the floor.

 it slinks in through the open garden doors, hiding under tables and darting like a vague shadow until it comes to the pets feasting table. It hisses and swats then gulps food down like it was starving, which from the looks of it it was indeed skin and bones. After gorging for a bit it ran to hide under a chair where it washed it's natty black hair while keeping it's dark gold eyes alert for danger.

 "Of course I will be more than happy to try to find you an elven steed. They are quite rare, but with the shakeup in the aether lately perhaps there are some wandering around. I will do my best for you Lady Xi."
 She graciously offered her assistance as Hieronymous had suggested she might. She knew of one whom she might ask.

"I am not sure what happened to Judos, truth be told. I have been told I am property of the Empire now. I have not been told why; I suppose I have no need to know, do I?"

She chuckled at the kitten's antics. "Ferocious hunter, that one."

She turned back to Azael. "I am not sure what my fate will be. Back to the slave markets, perhaps.."

 He got nervous and run from his current hiding place to run under a chair with a Lady in a dress, hiding behind her man servant under her chair, where her skirts hid him somewhat on one side and the slave hid him on the other side. He curled up with paws tucked under and slitted his eyes. Maybe he could nap then eat some more.

One of the servers eventually saw Little kitty nibbling away at the fine feast and began to shoo her away.  She jumped to the ground as the servant took her tasty dish away.  She was cleaning her whiskers when she heard the strange cats hissing.  Head cocked she spied the interloper.  Just a bit lighter and thinner than she.  She knew that this kit would or could be trouble.  Still like her it was just ..hungry.  Sauntering back she watched him eat his fill then wander under some two legger. She sauntered about sniffing the air that the other cat passed through.  She was determined to gets it's scent and if he was going to be the trouble she was thinking he's be.  If she wasn't going to have kittens she'd go up to him, but as it was she had to protect her babies.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:38, Sat 16 July 2016.

Lilbug returns to the table to make his Mistress another plate of food.  He fills the plate with carefully selected items for his Lady, but eventually notices things are disappearing!  As quick as he adds a crab cake or bite of venison it vanishes.  It takes him a few minutes of watching to see the lightning fast paw swiping the food!

The confused slave peeks under the table, only to see to bright slitted eyes looking back at him.  The half wild cat looks as if he hasn't eaten in a very long time.  He feels some pity for the poor starved creature and rolls a few more morsels towards him, and quickly fills his Mistress plate while he is distracted.  then hurries back to Lady Fairaday with Her food, kneeling and offering it to Her.

"Sorry for the delay, my Lady.  There is a wild cat under the feast table thieving scraps.  For mercy's sake I took a moment and offered him some food, from a safe distance of course."

Hieronymous nods slowly, a smile spreading across his face, making him seem far more youthful than his normally stoic demeanor.  The emotions that play across his features is intense, and his eyes become like two pools of melted gold.  In spite of his best efforts, a single tear betrays him, and rolls down his cheek before he can turn away to hide it.  He recovers quickly, however, for years of experience has taught him the art of concealment well.  He takes a deep breath and opens his eyes once more.

"Thank you Crow, I cannot tell you how much I rejoice at your decision.  You have my utmost gratitude.  They entire Empire will be better for it, I deem.  Enjoy the feast, and be merry with your friends; tomorrow is soon enough for us to begin."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:53, Sat 16 July 2016.

In reply to lilbug (msg # 141):

 He studied Lilbug's offerings briefly then with dainty care took a morsel from his fingers, his lips not even touching lilbug's fingertips. He held the food with one paw and with great dignity ate the morsel then licked his paw. He set his paw down and dipped his head at lilbug as if to say "thank you".

 He doesn't seem as wild to you as he seems lost.

 Beside Hieronymous, Sadina rested her hand gently upon his arm, as if to console him. She smiled warmly down upon Crow with a clear joy in her eyes rarely seen for her. She knew Hieronymous would teach the boy well. He had much to learn yet, but she had faith in Hiero's faith in Crow. She could almost feel the relief and contentment coming off Hiero and it made her tremble with joy that he was losing his chains that had weighted his soul down for so long. She was glad Hiero finally realized that he had atoned for his mistakes. He had far exceeded his youthful pride and mistakes by his faithful service for so long.

 She turned back to Crow with an impish grin.

 "I too offer my training. I will teach you things that will increase your... usefulness... to Sidi. I will expect you to learn quickly and fully what I teach you before Hieronymous gets his hands on you."

 With barely a blurred motion she sent a sharp but tiny dagger flying through the air to land exactly equal distance between his boots, her hands back where they had started from without having seemed to have moved.

 "Do you accept this boon?"

 She looked over at lilbug, a smile on her lips as she watched him feed something under her chair. She wondered what it was. Then she puts a stern look on her face and asked him what the heck he was doing. Upon hearing about a cat, she laughed with disbelief.

 "A stray cat you say? Likely story! There's a table on the floor over there for the pets! I think you are just stuffing them in your pocket to save for later you lazy good for nothing slave!"

 Her lips twitch and she looks angry.

"You have a wonderful smile.  It has just a hint of that you have been up to no good cheekiness." She let her forehead touch his.  Gently she let the back of her hand trace along his cheekbone softly.

In reply to slave girl sparrow (msg # 138):

  I don't think cats are that far removed fromm tigers.They are all huntrs at heart. Although I think a few have realized we will feed them without asking much in return." He Looked up slightly his eyes intense for a moment as Sparrow mentioned the markets.

"I think I'll pare them the bother." He announced and set the coffer he had been given on the floor in front of sparrow." Take this to astrologer, and inform him that you are now my property. Tell him to take what he thinks a fiar price from y coin, and return to me."

 He stood over Sparrow pullnng himself to his full hieght and assuming a stern unsympathetic look." tell him I will pay for you. I do not want you as part of any reward You will be mine purchased with my coin, and I will owe no one any gratitude for a gift."

"From now on you will recieve all you need from me. You may keep your rewards since you have well earned them. but get rid of those clothes...they are not mine they belonged to that other fellow. Besides I rather enjoy seeing you naked."
He made no effor to hide the fact he inded did enjoy her form as he spoke

"And so you know I will not hesitate to remind you of your postion if I think it needed.crawl. do not walk then kneel by my side."

Sparrow had a small smile when Azael mentioned buying her. She'd hoped he'd be tempted. It would be better to be with someone he knew and his behavior on the trail had...

Her eyes widened as he continued. That was not what she expected from the man she'd travelled with on the trail. Her jaw dropped. "N...naked? Here? In the Great Hall of the Empress?"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:26, Tue 19 July 2016.

Azael let out a chuckle and then laughed as he watched her respond. "That look has made my day much brighter."

"A passing fancy no more no less." Azael assured her.His smile friendly and humorous an odd expression on a man  who normally wore a hardened killers glare.But there was obvious interest n her as moe than a traveling companion in his eyes."the thought of having you completely under my control is interesting...and I does that worry you?"

I'll give you a choice, shed those garments and walk proudly to the astrologer to deliver your price. Or a small task later. One of my choosing, with no options but obedience."

He held out his hand motioning to the garments waiting for her decision.

Sparrow hesitated for but an instant, clutching the silk dress she had been given. She could hardly discard the garment the Empress had gifted her and walked naked to the Astrologer.

She was suddenly worried that having Azael buy her was not such a good idea, but what choice did she have? She could not refuse him, and even if she did, he could simply buy her later and then he'd be cross. She was not sure she liked the way he looked her over, either.

She bent and picked up the coffer he had indicated, testing her slender strength, and carried it over to the Astrologer. She laid it down before him and bowed her head, waiting to be acknowledged again.

Motoko was taken completely aback when she overhead the conversation between Crow and Hieronymous.  A small smile grew upon her face, however, when she realized what this meant for her long-time companion and friend.  She already knew just how much potential the young magician held and was happy to see that others were finally realizing this too.

Turning her attention back on her slave girl, Motoko took Petal by the leash and started leading her back to the table.  "Come along now, pet.  You should try the sea food.  Whoever prepared this meal really knew what they were doing."

"Oh yes, by the way... I've never handled property before, let alone acres of land.  I don't suppose you have any experience with that?" The traveling swordswoman asked as she fiddled with the small jeweled pin that now adorned her attire.  She gave Petal a smile and a pat on the head.  "We each get a guest house, right?  It would be nice to have a place all to ourselves.  Away from prying eyes..."

" Yes Mistress." Petal smiled and followed along obediently keeping pace with the taller woman."The food is delicious, I know several of the cooks, they were working in the kitchen of the palace since they were girls."

"I am not schooled in management Mistress," Petal replied looking embarrassed." I am told I am far too simple minded, and trusting to handle such things. However I do know of several very highly respected Stewards who are very well trained, and respected."

She smiled happily when her mistress showed her affection responding instantly to her soft touch. Eyes lighting up at the mention of a private place, then blushing deeply a bit of mischief mixed in with her glance to the floor."Yes, Mistress. That would be very nice I enjoy being able to have time without others around."

Back at the pets and companions table Little Kitty could see the food running low.  She was tempted to go back again to the two legger's table....except, she noticed one two legger eying her.  Loudly and annoyingly she gave a loud meow as she sat near some of the empty bowls.

Crow appeared a little surprised by Sadina's offer.  He didn't expect to be offered so much help with magic in one day.  He knelt down and picked up the tiny dagger, taking note of the sharpness and quality of the blade.  He got up and turned to face Sadina.  "Yes, I accept this boon.  Thank you, m'Lady.  You will not be disappointed."

His usual goofy grin appeared on his face as he bowed to his new teachers before excusing himself to rejoin the festivities.  As much as he wished to enjoy the feast for the rest of the day, he couldn't wait to get started tomorrow morning.  He wondered if he'll be taught the kind of magic that appeared so often in the stories he heard as a child.

In reply to Stardancer (msg # 146):

"I am almost always up to at least some no good." Seemed to enjoy the simple touch of her hand letting his hand touch her face as well."to Be honest, I think my lot in life is to dare what others do not. For better or worse. Such as wooing a fair lady of the plains, and find beauty where other see it not. I definitely count that as being for the better."

The Royal Astrologer watched Crow race off and shook his head as he softly smiled.

"Enjoy tonight, Crow," he replies quietly, so quietly in fact that Sadina alone, of all gathered there, might perhaps hear him.  "It is as much a burden as a gift that I am giving you, but I believe you are the most able to bear it.  May the gods approve and bless this enterprise, and may the show me the surest path towards your enlightenment."



Hieronymous looked to Sparrow and then the chest she had placed before him.  "Yes Sparrow, there is something more you require?  Please ask and it is gladly given, no gold is necessary, " he answered her gently, his amber eyes gazing into her's.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:31, Sat 23 July 2016.

Lilbug bows his head deeply, not quite certain if his Mistress is truly angry or not, but certainly not willing to take any chances.

"No, Mistress, I would never do such a thing, I swear by Padros the Collared.  I think perhaps the poor animal is simply lost.  Allow me please to go to the table reserved for animal companions and fill him a bowl of food that we might coax him out and help him, my Lady."

Getting up and quickly making his way to the "pets" table, the slave starts to fill a bowl for the feral cat, then hears the sounds of another little kitty and peeks under the table.  As she mews pitifully, lilbug's gentle heart melts and he carefully retrieves her bowl and fills it as well.

"I cannot stay long, little one, I must needs return to my Mistress, but surely I may take a moment to make sure you too can enjoy the Empress largesse.  Enjoy little one, I do hope your owner is nigh."

He looks to see if she has a collar or other identification.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:40, Sat 23 July 2016.

Sparrow chuckled and bowed. "The coin is not mine, my lord, nor is the errand. Azael wishes to purchase me from the crown, and bids you take a fair price of your choosing from his chest of coin. And he did mention he would not accept a gift in this matter."

Little kitty remembers seeing the one two legger talking to her.  She began purring and rubbing around his legs like she'd done many times on their journeys. She was either sleeping on one of the centaurs or in Master Judos clothing, mush to his consternation. She licked at one side of her whiskers as he picked her up.  She was heavier than before.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:10, Sun 31 July 2016.

The gown she wore was rather simple in design yet elegant in its own right, a deep shade of green with golden embroidery that subtly adorned the hemline and neckline. It hugged her torso tightly thanks to the ribbons that ran up the sides, showing off her rather shapely form but flared out as it neared her hip. Her long reddish gold curls had been pulled back and up, pinned with little golden clips to keep it off her neck and out of her face, though a few stubborn curls managed to loosen near the back of her neck.

She listened respectfully, that stoic look upon her face as she digested the words spoken. When her name had been called, she stepped forward to receive her gifts, giving the appropriate gesture of thanks before moving back to her spot. While the others had seemed to make friends with their fellow comrades, she had remained on the outskirts, so to speak. The less people knew about her that better in her eyes.

Of course upon hearing Azael’s name, she couldn’t help but scowl, especially at the treatment she received from him. That whole ordeal had left a very bitter taste in her mouth and a part of her still wanted to see him pay for it. She closed her eyes for a brief moment to fight back that more childish part of her personality before opening them again.

When all was said and done, Zana moved to a side of the room after taking something to drink where she wouldn’t be in the way. This was awkward at best but she was going to try to make the best of it given the situation.

---

OOC: Sorry...trying to catch up and everything. :)

Among the items in your gift baskets are maps of the city (See Game Map) and the map of the Islet where the manor house and property you all own a part of is. (See white square, it is the manor house.) The wooded area and round part where trees are is part of the property. Cottages are sprinkled around the wooded areas for those who wish to have a private residence, but everyone has access to the Manor House as well.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albu...%203_zps2a9nmxak.jpg

The old Astrologer listened patiently while Sparrow explained about Azael's desire to purchase her.  He glanced down at the chest of gold and then gazed deeply into Sparrow's fair face, cupping her chin in his fingers.

"Before I agree to your request, I would like to ask you something, slave girl Sparrow.  You have, in your time, known both freedom and servitude; you have lived in both a man's and a woman's world, and so I imagine you know a great deal more about the strengths and weaknesses that govern us all than most in your position could ever dare claim.  In short, you have a deep and enviable wealth of experience from which to choose your fate.

You are no simple slave, dear Sparrow.  You are a hero of the Realms, whether you would or no.  You have the friendship and goodwill of the mightiest and most high of Arn: Lady Sadina and myself, Lady Fairaday, Master Galen and a privileged few who know of your valiant deeds.  The Empress Sidi herself counts you among her favoured, which I daresay is a rare and cherished honour.

By removing your mark, I have set you free of the curse that binds you to your current form.  You may now choose to be the person you once were, if that is your wish, though once the choice is made it shall be forever binding.  And yet I wager you like the person you have become better, as do I. You have every right to choose your own path in life, even if the path you desire is a humble one.  You are now truly free to do so for yourself.

So, since you are no mere servant, I respectfully ask you this simple question, Slave Sparrow:  is this what you want?  Is Azael acceptable to you as your new Master?  If so then it shall be done. On behalf of her Imperial Majesty, I shall accept one hundred gold coins for your purchase and have them all given to slaves who seek to buy their freedom, and I shall tell them their gift comes from a wise and noble Lady.  How do you answer?"
This message was last edited by the player at 02:02, Tue 02 Aug 2016.

Looking at the little kitty more closely, lilbug's eyes go wide and he grins.  "You shall soon be blessed with a kindle of kittens!  No more a little kitty for you, but a noble mother you shall be."

He ran to find Mistress Fairaday and, when he did, he knelt at Her boots and showed her Stardancer's expectant kitty, holding her aloft gently.  "I found this one under the pet table, my Lady.  Perhaps their sire is the other cat I've seen in here tonight?  Shouldn't we let Stardancer know?"

 The kitty under the chair let out a pitiful cry and butted lilbug in the knee, ignoring the pregnant Queenie seeming not the least bit interested in the strange female other than a brief sniff and mild hiss. He placed one paw on lilbug's knee.

"Mreeour?"

She watched lilbug come back with a chubby little queen cat who appeared heavily pregnant. The cat under the chair started talking to lilbug butting him and patted him with his paw. He was evidently trying to tell him something. And didn't seem to know the little female.

"I don't think he knows the momma cat."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:54, Mon 01 Aug 2016.

Little Kitty licked the two leggers hand.  She did his a touch as the other cat head butted him. She craned her neck a bit to get the other cats scent.  She wanted to know if this other cat was a danger or not.

The bigger cat smells strange and spicy in a weird way. He is definitely not someone she has met before.

"Hmm, you are right, my beloved Mistress, as usual.  I believe this tom does want something of us," lilbug replied, then carefully placed the little kitty on a pillow. "You will be safe here, little mother never fear."  The slave boy then ducked his head down to look at the ragged kitty and gently spoke to him.

"What is it, merry wanderer?  Have you something to show us?"

"Huh... That's interesting," Motoko remarked upon hearing how Petal knew the palace cooks and of some highly respected stewards.  She wondered if she should even bother with getting a steward.  There may already be one assigned to the tavern.  Was that how it worked?  The swordswoman clearly didn't even know what a steward even was.  "What's a steward, exactly?"

Motoko thought about the scroll she had been given.  She wondered if she could request for a method of dealing with foes who can fly.  She remembered how little use her arrows were in the fight against that creature made up of a swarm of dark fairies.  She gave it some thought before deciding on what she wished to ask from the Imperial Astrologer.

This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.  Maybe it was better to ask a few questions first...

The young aspiring Kensai approached Hieronymous.  She glanced down at the scroll she had been given.  She turned her eyes back on the court mage.  She hesitated for a moment, before speaking, "Lord Astrologer... I would like to challenge the strongest swordsman in all of Arn.  In your opinion, who would that be?"

 The tom turned and scratched with his left back foot, digging along his neck as cats will often do. He stopped and blinked at lilbug then used his other back foot to dig along his right shoulder and neck. Then he heaved a big sigh and lay down, blinking up at lilbug and Fairaday.

It had been a while that Stardancer kept caressing and kissing Rinaldo.  To her it was a moment of magic she wanted to stay forever, still she knew it would not.  They had much to work on.  a bit sadly she broke the kiss "Perhaps...we should go back and join the others?  See if they would prefer to go back to the tavern or the island." she suggested.

 Before too long, an Official came out to announce that it was time for them to go see their new home.

 "Pardon me everyone. It is time for you to see the last gift from the Empress Sidi. There are carriages or wagons for all of you to take you there. If you would all be so kind as to finish your business and your pleasures, the carriages and wagons will be leaving within 30 minutes. I will take you there to show you your new home. Thank you."

 He proceeded to head out to the carriage area where he stood talking to a groom holding a nice horse, tacked out with a saddle and bridle. Once everyone appeared and got into their carriages or wagons, he mounted up and led them off.

Rinaldo seemed reluctant to leave the garden and a private moment with Stardancer. The with a jaunty smile he glanced to where the carriages had pulled up. " Ah, something new to see no doubt. They brought out the nice carriages."

So much more comfortable than the ones with bars in the windows, and a dour gaoler at the riegns

She smiled "I am afraid mine will have.  I will be in the decorated wagon, My larg frame is too large for a human carriage.   Though it is rather ...fun to ride in one than to pull one."  holding his hand heading back into the ballroom gala to gather the others.

" Well then we shall have our wagon to ourselves then."  Rinaldo smiled as he walked with her toward the wagons.  "The one good thing about being a land owner now is that our quarters can be altered to fit our needs, which may require a nice perch and a nesting box occasionally."
He smiled and gave a raucous caw, and mimed flapping his wings.

"To be honest, being able to wear a new form for a bit can be rather enjoyable once you learn the fine points of making that form do what you wish. Seeing the world through new eyes is worth the work. If you could ever see the world from on high, or feel the wind under your wings, you would be in love with the sky.

"As much as I love to ride, I would be curious to feel what it's like to gallop, to kick up dust and run faster than I have ever run before."
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:42, Fri 05 Aug 2016.

Moving into the great hall to prepare to leave she listened to Rinaldo.  His voice sounded like honey in her ears.  "I know Stargazer could change to a human.  I'd often wondered what that would be like, that and being able to fly.  Perhaps the great powers shall teach us both." She smiled knowing her wish for Rinaldo.  A part of her mind wandered to wonder if Stargazer was happy travelling with the centaurs in the plains, learning of his heritage. "As for a 'nesting box'...Is that not for a female bird?  Or do all birds make nests?" In her mind a fair question.  She let her mind go to thinking that since they had eggs a female would have use of a nest, it never dawned on her that perhaps a male bird would have need of one.
 Of course upon entering the hall and seeing several of her friends dealing with a furry little feline problem caught her attention "I..What ..what is the excitement here?" she calmly asked, then glanced at Rinaldo with a quizzical look.

"Nesting boxes draw in more than just the female." Rinaldo Pointed out. and motioned to the birds around the Palace."Different birds look for different types of boxes, trees, what not. I know what My friends looks for. so I can get them to move in.. and have nice tiding of friends to keep the place lively.

"Let's find out." Rinaldo shrugged his curiosity piqued.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:50, Sat 06 Aug 2016.

 "Come lilbug, it is time for us to leave. See if your stray kitty will let you carry him with us out to the carriages. Little Momma cat must go with her Mistress. First go tell her that her cat is with us, then come back to get our stray Kitty. While you are gone, I will speak with the Master Astrologer."

 She reached down to pet the ragged cat talking softly to it in another language to see if it responded. "Would you like to come with us for now? We would offer you a good home if that is what you wish. But first I must speak to the Astrologer. Will you wait for us?" The cat head butted her hand so she smiled and stood. She walked over to the Astrologer when she caught him free of other people.

 "Greetings Hieronymous. Greetings Sadina. I believe we will depart now for the manor. If you wish to discuss anything about this bequest we can speak of it later, if that is alright with you?"
 "We have found a stray cat who seems to like lilbug and me, so we shall take him there for now. Rather, he found us as it were. I think he is lost or strayed from his previous owner. Have you heard of any lost cats or any event that might cause one to stray from home? I feel he is more than just some stray, you see? Of course, you are always welcome to visit us at any time you wish, either at the Manor or at the Inn if we should be there for some reason."

 "Thank you both for the gifts, and tell Sidi we are deeply honored as well. Of course I shall send a letter thanking her as well. We will be off now."

 She bowed deeply to Hieronymous and gave Sadina a quick hug and a kiss on the cheek. Then she went to pick up the poor cat until lilbug returned from talking to the Momma cat's mistress. She walked slowly, murmuring to the cat, heading toward their carriage.

"Come lilbug! It is time we were going." She called out sharply as she saw him coming back.

 He headbutted Fairaday when she petted him and spoke to him. He was grateful she spoke to him, for many treated him like just a feral or stray cat. He purred and mewed softly as she picked him up and carried him outside after she had spoken to the star man.

Nodding obediently and smiling for his Mistress, he bundled Star dancer's kitty in his arms gently and took her over to where she was conversing with Rinaldo.  He knelt and waited patiently for them to acknowledge him, not wanting to be rude and interrupt their conversation.  He knelt, not because he felt he needed to defer to them anymore, they had become friends, but he was most comfortable kneeling as he'd been doing it for so very long.  Of course, once he'd spoken to Hieronymous, it all made so much more sense to lilbug why he was so comfortable there...

When they did notice him he carefully offered the little kitty to Star dancer: "She has been enjoying the pet's table, and the human one I suspect, quite a bit Lady Star dancer.  And it is no wonder, considering she is eating for many now.  She will soon be a proud mother of many, so...um congratulations I should think."

Handing her over, he scratched her once more behind her ears where she seemed to like and with a smile he added, "Mistress and I are off to the Estate now, I'm sure she'll want to settle in and such.  And we found another stray cat as well that I believe Lady Fairaday wants to take home with us, so I have much to do.   W/we will see you there soon I am sure.  Farewell for now, friends."

As quickly as he could, he came to his Mistress side.  Seeing Lord Hieronymous and Lady Sadina nearby, he realized that it would be proper to thank their hosts and so he knelt formally and kissed the floor before them both, offering a slave's gratitude (as it was said in Arn).  It was difficult for lilbug, seeing Lady Sadina once more, the pangs of regret that ached in his heart.  How often had he longed for the chance to kneel before Her just once more, and here he was doing just that.  And yet so much time had passed since they'd been Mistress and slave, a lifetime it seemed, and lilbug knew they had both changed.  He still loved Her, and he knew he always would, but he had found his Mistress, the one and only Owner he ever wanted now.

He looked up to the Astrologer and Lady Sadina, catching Her eyes he smiled wistfully and said a simple, "thank you...for everything."  He was grateful for so much more than simply the night's festivities and he hoped his words would express that much.  He longed to say more, but instead he bit his lip and remained quiet until he heard his Mistress call for him.  Lady Sadina was finally happy, he could see it in Her face, and that was enough for lilbug; it was all he'd ever wanted for Her.  Quickly he rose and took his leave, turning his back on what had been and running to his waiting Lady.  His one and only Mistress; the Lady Fairaday!

"Yes my Lady, coming dear Mistress," he cheerfully replied.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:00, Sun 07 Aug 2016.

Listening and watching she learned what was going on.  Looking at Rinaldo a moment she smiled "Looks like we will have a new companion to our friends" lifting the not so little kitty "You are getting heavynow little one.  We will make sure you get more food the so your kittens will be healthy"
She walked over to see the other kitty.  Again her heartstrings were pulled "Poor thing looks half starved" She gave it a gentle rub "You are among friends dark one....you will be safe now" bowing to their hosts and with a smile she reached for Rinaldos hand to go to the carriage and wagons.

 She smiled down upon lilbug with fondness, proud that he had found a Mistress who appreciated his talents and his devotion. She loved him still, as one would be fond of a pet, but not as Fairaday must. Besides, she had Hieronymous now, and was as happy as she could be.

 She bent down and gave lilbug a soft stroke upon his head, as if blessing him and thanking him for many things she could not say.

 "Be well lilbug. I wish you happiness and fulfillment."

 She stood back up and smiled at Fairaday then wrapped her hand around Hieronymous' arm, leaning against him slightly smiling up at him as well.

 He looked up at Stardancer and mewed softly, then shook his head as if he had a flea in his ear. There was a soft jingle and a small stud fell out of his fur landing in Stardancers hand. he scratched gently at his ear then turned to lick Stardancers hand a couple times.

Stardancer had not noticed if the cat had been wearing jewelry before.  She knew some owners did so to beloved animals.  She looked at the object in her hand for a moment then pocketed it for the moment.  She followed the others in the procession to leave.

(hopefully with Rinaldo) heading to wagons and carriages to the island.

==> to island and Manor

Hieronymous smiled to Motoko, interested in what she would finally ask.  Hearing her request surprised him not in the least.  He gave it some deep thought, he'd been to many places and known many warriors in the centuries he'd been alive.  At last he leaned down and whispered to Motoko in her native tongue:

Sparrow blinked at the question, and realized that the curse upon her was gone. She was still Sparrow but the geas was gone. No longer could she find her only happiness as a slave of Arn.

Or could she?

The curse may have been gone, but her life as Baran seemed so far away now. She could remember her old self, her old battles, but she had trouble remembering how it felt. It was a little as if it had all happened to a different person, and the story had been told to her. He was so unlike her. And had he been happy, a soldier of fortune, carting from one conquest to another and one battle to another, with no stability and no certainty, death and fear his constant companions?

Baran might have been willing to live that life then, but now? The thought frightened her. To be Baran again meant returning to that life and leaving Sparrow behind. The prospect made her feel uneasy.

Her time as a woman had changed her very nature, she now realized. It had actually happened sometime along the way on the caravan to Arn. She wasn't Baran anymore. She was Sparrow. And so knowing, what was her place in the world? Would she simply go free, a slip of a girl with no real skills, in the rough world outside? What would happen to her there? She didn't like dwelling on the notion.

She remembered the old gypsy woman's words, who told her her place, at her Master's side. She remembered how right that had felt. How she had felt happy at serving Judos, certain that she had her place. Happier than any time she'd remember feeling as Baran, at least. Had that been the geas? It seemed real.

It was that or any number of unknowns after being thrown into the world. And though rationally she might think she should not be a slave, having her grounding removed from under her left her emotionally queasy.

"I..." She hesitated, then made her decision. She bowed her head. "Please sell me to Azael, milord", she said in a trembling voice. She was sure, as much as she could be given the bewildering decision.

Once Hieronymous had counted the one hundred coins from the chest and dismissed her, Sparrow picked up the heavy case of money again, and struggled to bring it back to Azael. She set it down in front of him. The handle slipped from her hand at the last moment and she winced when the case landed with a sharp thud.

She adjusted her silk dress, a little nervously.

"I'm yours, Master", she said finally.

Proceed to Manor and cottages Thread.