There are two courtyards in the palace, created at two different times in the building's history, when wings were added to enclose the spaces.  At times, they have been flower gardens, kitchen gardens, lawns, exercise areas... a variety of uses, depending on the whims and personalities of the rulers of the time.

Before Barstow, Groscius the Usurper had merely let them go wild.  The Werewolf had no need for gardens.  And Barstow, though of entirely different temperment, has so far been inclined to keep them that way.  In his view, it's nice to look out on some natural green.   Of course, “natural green” is visible from many points in the palace, including the new “Alzette Wing” where the Duke and Duchess now have their quarters, so some suspect it's just because they don't want to bother with planning other uses for the courtyards.

The wing between the two gardens is called the Beolas Wing for the Werebear Duke who added it.  It was the first wing of the palace that was entirely secluded, facing away from public areas, and served the Dukes as quiet, private quarters.  It was the first wing added primarily for comfort.   The ground floor has several large “day salons” and two of them have been joined, incorporating the passageway between them, so that there is now one large room with garden- now more of a young forest- on either side.

Now, it becomes a refuge for Unicorns- creatures of peace and serenity that have a hard time with busy, noisy crowds.

Some magic of the Unicorns takes over here quickly- even though it is the heart of winter, a burst of life seems to move through the gardens.  The snow sparkles like crystal, and the Unicorns leave no hoof prints.  There are birds, and those plants that keep their greenery, like the Holly bush, seem especially lush.

It takes a while for Aelausuria to pin down Theoderic.  She’s picked up a tail like that of a comet.  Cirostis insists on following her, and Ovo too, when they pass near the palace.  And, of course, several friends and sisters from home, who haven’t seen Aelasuria in months and find the idea that Dwarves insist on protecting her to be a little bit strange.

She catches up with him in the gardens of the palace, where the Unicorns have moved in.  He’s talking to a few of them.

Aelasuria’s sisters and friends stop and staire.  There are Unicorns here!  Not just one!  NINE of them!

Theoderic understands her concern when she tells him about the bounty, and the possibility of an assassination attempt, but he doesn’t seem worried.

“We’ve always been in danger,” he says.  “Until the Huns are gone, we always will be.  Here, we are among more friends and allies than anywhere else.  Barstow and Texxor are two of the greatest fighters alive, we have a Dwarven Army, Elves, Centaurs…

“And you need fear no poison,” Marisol says.  “We will always be near, and you know the powers we have.”

“If the Emperor wants to try here, he will be attacking when we are at our strongest.”

“We’ll be on our guard,” Aelasuria’s friend Kalellia says.

“But we can do something, we could move the wedding location,” Theoderic suggests.

Procyon, oldest of the Unicorns here, steps forward.  He disagrees.  “No.  You must not be afraid.  Even in danger.  You have faced worse, do not back away in so public a view.  The people must see that you are not afraid.”

When Ovo joins Cirostis shakes clasps his arm in friendly greeting.


Cirostis remains with the lady and listens to the dismissal by her groom.

I'm sorry Sir, please excuse me, I am but one of that Army of Dwarves ... Will you be arranging new security based on this intelligence? It seems to me that this is not a threat armies are made to defend against. Striking while we appear strong with one or a few who are dedicated could succeed in killing or just maiming one of you. That will be enough for victory. Under threat of ruffling your feathers if I may be frank - I recommend neither of you be with fewer than three armed and trusted friends - and that you both choose to remain back if any confrontation develops.

Hurrying to Theo she hugs  him laying her head against his chest for a few long moments. Perhaps it was silly but she couldn't help but worry about him. He had many good qualities being wise for his age, strong, kind and a good fighter he might be. Still she had been afraid for him. Smiling she takes great comfort in being in his arms feeling a weight lift from her heart.

"Your right Theo this is probably the safest place we could be right now. I also agree with Procyon we can't let the people suffer thinking that all our victories are for nought that we would flee at the mere thought that the Huns come for us. If we have to run none of them will be able to feel safe in their own homes. However I agree with Cirostis the Huns and their allies the blackguards are very good at getting past defenses. They armed one of their blackguards with a dagger that very well might have been custom made for me Theo or Scolo since it was designed specifically to slay a wielder of magic by bypassing our usual magical defenses like mage armor. We should not underestimate them."

She looks to Kyriel who is likely already here, Cirostis, and Ovo all whom get a nod of recognition a smile and a look of appreciation. "Kyriel has come a long way and stayed at my side. She would be one, Ovo is a solid fighter who would be two, and I think it would be wise to have strong magic both for healing and against evil readily on hand. Perhaps Rita would make a third that should stay with us at all times. However I am perfectly fine if we had a dozen more particularly during the wedding ceremony. We might not have the luxury to stand back Cirostis and I am afraid I would have to use my magic to aid someone protecting me. Theo risks his life in every battle right alongside the army as do I when we have fought demons in the past. We will be careful although I think we both agree we do not wish to let someone protecting us die if we can do something about it.

However there were other things that needed addressing. She soon hugs Marisol Caressing her belly and kissing her neck. She wondered if she would feel the child kick! "It's been far to long Marisol. How long till you have your child or have you already?" She doubted it because she couldn't see Marisol leaving her baby for any reason. However if she had and the child was here she definitely looks for the very young Unicorn. She takes the time to introduce her sisters and others to the Unicorns and Theo. "Everyone, my sisters, this is Marisol my Unicorn companion and her love Procyon. This one here is Spica also my Unicorn companion since Marisol became with child. I think almost everyone knows Theo, King Theoderic. Theo this is Cirostis who has helped to protect me since he found out about the Hun threat. Kyriel I believe you have already met."

She looks to Kyriel with a smiles speaking softly to her. "Kyriel would you like to be one of my Bridesmaids?" She smiles and takes Kalellia's hand giving it a affectionate squeeze. "You as well Kalellia would you be one of my bridesmaids."

Aelasuria realizes she has overlooked someone important. "Theo, Marisol, Spica everyone. This is Bryon a wizardess and her Familiar Scrumff. She has a magical ability that apparently can make her look like anyone she wants. I think for about six hours? She has offered to make herself look like me in order to draw out those who plan to kill me or Theo. I am not comfortable letting someone take my place. I don't want to put her in danger."

"However I thought it best to share what she wishes with you Theo to see how you feel about it. As well as hearing how Kyriel feels on the matter. IF you all agree it's a good plan I will accept it but I want everything possible done to ensure her safety if we go that way. I would never forgive myself if Bryon came to harm. I would rather face this together with Theo at my side." Aelasuria had to share how she felt however she wouldn't outright reject it either without consulting with Theo.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:41, Tue 26 Mar 2013.

Upon emtering the garden Bryon laughed "Im sure Scrumff isn't a were. If he were he would have changed and had his way with me by now."

There were unicorns. Bryon had seen one or two but never so many. It was dazzling. She wandered a bit bieng friendly with one if it would allow. When introduced she gives a deep curtsie and bows her head out of respect for his station. She holds up a finger though as to correct. "While my powers are magical in nature I am no wizard. I owe my abilities to both my parent's  bloodlines. Fey intermingle with both sides of my family frequently and so my soul is wound round with chaos. I was tutored in the use of these powers by an uncle who happens to be a rather randy Satyr. I also know that Infernals have given twisted versions of my gifts to their own servants."

She pauses collecting her thoughts. "Like many of my people I have a spirit guardian. Scrumff perfers not to be called a familiar...he thinks I am his woman...though he shares." She winks again at the shy Dwarf enjoying his discomfort.

"I wear armor the lighter stuff does not interfear with my powers. Also I share a bit of my Fey ancestors toughness in that most weapons do less damage than they should. So you see I am the perfect choice for this charade. Also it will make picking her dress easier.

Well I .... Cirostis starts to get upset but thinks better of it ... Then calmly and with good manners he says.

I'm taken Madame - and rumors to the contrary could hurt more than barbs.

He coughs his way to a more appropriate posture.

Excuse me, your majesty. Fighting in the front of battle does much to build morale. But being known for it is a weakness. Morale is lost if your habits are used to kill you. Others will fail to follow your example when they see you rewarded with terror.

Change is good - even among dwarves. You see my Centurion - sometimes he is at the front, sometimes directing from the rear or managing artillery or caring for the wounded. Looked for - he will not be found by an enemy that is, but all his soldiers know him.

There is a time to let your people support you and take risks. That also builds morale. 

He nods sidelong toward the, Lady Bryon who has teased him.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:37, Mon 25 Mar 2013.

Kyriel nods when King Theoderic mentions that they've been in danger before, but she doesn't smile. "Your majesty is correct. You won't be safe until the hun are no more. I'm not sure changing the venue will be helpful. It will alert any assassins that you are aware of their presence and they will take extra care in their attempts."

She grins when Cirostis makes his observation. "I agree with you, sir. There is a time for armies and straight up fights and then there is a time for shadows and flashing knives. This is the latter."

Hearing Aelasuria's ideas about bodyguards is good. "The obvious guards should be mostly for show. You'll want your best to be in places where they won't be expected."

The presence of so many unicorns takes her breath away; she's seen a few of them before, but never so many! "How are you Marisol?"

Then Aelasuria does something completely unexpected and offers to make her a bridesmaid. For a few moments she's completely at a loss for words. It's a great honor, but she works best away from the limelight. Though if there is an attack during the wedding, she'll be in a position to try to fend it off. All these thoughts and dozens like them flit through her brain. One last thought is she's disappointed that Terrance couldn't be here to see her. She curtseys; her decision made. "Thank you Aelasuria. It's an honor. I'll do my best to serve you well."

She eyes the new woman with some fey powers. She hopes this newcomer is as well-intentioned as she seems. However, since she arrived with the elves, that does give her a lot of credit in Kyriel's eyes. The comment about infernals giving abilities similar to hers is interesting and more than a little troubling. "Can you tell if anyone near you is under a similar effect?"

She has to grin when Cirostis adroitly deflects Bryon's attentions. "One thing you'll have to be careful of is to stay in character. Aelasuria isn't known for her wandering eye. . . ."

And she certain has to agree with Cirostis' observation about morale.

Bryon smiles at the Dwarf with a pert sort of tolerance saying, "Too bad I had such splendid things in mind for you.  Perhaps one of the comrades you spoke of is not taken?" In any event she has his attention, which was all she really wanted anyway.

Another elf stepped up and spoke. Kyriel it seemed was a good friend of the future Queen so much so she is offered a place alongside her, a real honor. Bryon listened and answered her as best she could. "Unfortunately no that is beyond my power, though I understand a wizard can sense this as any other magic. Sensing magic is not an ability I possess."

At Kyriel's last comment Scrumff chitters "She really is smitten anyone can see that. You would have your work cut out for you."

Bryon laughes. "With your permission, Lady Aelasuria and your highness."

She slides in next to the King making lover's  eyes and taking his hand. Everything about her demenour screams "Woman In Love" from the tilt of her head to her shy smile. If she did not look like herself one might swear she was the future Queen. As quickly as it appeared it vanishes and she becomes herself again. "Perhaps you will agree Kyriel that hiding in plain sight can be as effective as disappearing into shadows?"

She disengages herself from the King politely. She clearly is not interested in men who are taken but is so good at faking it one would be hard pressed to see the difference when she chooses to put that face on.

This message was deleted by the player at 01:23, Wed 27 Mar 2013.

The Unicorns seem to vanish within the tight confines of the garden- all but Marisol and Procyon.

“Kyriel..." Marisol says hesitantly, "I am well, but the Garden was meant to be a private place for us.  It is becoming crowded.  Must so many be here?"

The comment is clearly directed at Byron and Cirostis as well as Kyriel- Theoderic and Aelasuria are readily welcomed.  It is not that the Unicorns harbor any hostility to anyone else... but they are known to be shy creatures.  They look at Cirostis with a little curiosity.  The Unicorns were aware that Aelasuria had a Dwarf guarding her... although, did she somehow switch Dwarves along the way?  The Unicorns are not quite sure.  They don't know many Dwarves and to a degree they all look alike- short, wide, hairy, and encased in metal.

(And Haakon was clearly in the wrong thread.  He is supposed to be in Meetings in the Palace.)

Procyon, who appears to be "head Unicorn", says diplomatically, "We are not accustomed to attention, and after our trials we need a respite.  There is a lounge in the building, there, alongside the garden.  It is a better place to speak."

Theoderic takes Aelasuria's hand, and as they walk in the direction Procyon suggested, gives Byron a puzzled look and asks "Who are you?"

He also stops one of the castle servants, and young boy hurrying by.  He's a Wererat, from the look of his ears and tail.  Theoderic tells him to find Texxor or Mergyon, and tell them Theoderic recommends a little tighter control on entry into the palace gardens.  No one wants stressed out Unicorns.

Cirostis remains silent and near Aelessuria. He is sure one or two of the lads would gladly provide for the uh Lady Byron's appetites and they would make a proud showing for dwarves everywhere but it was not his place to make mention of such things - it was actually his place to meet out discipline when such events would occasionally go awry.

To the Unicorns he also feels it best to say nothing when nothing is said to him. He had just gotten used to his pony and saddle - the idea of giant talking magical ponys with sharp horns was not very comfortable to him, and he wasn't here to aggravate anyone or get any attention. He just wants to support the lady to get her security detail in order.

Aelasuria blushes slightly thinking her mother would have a hard time making Bryon blush with her sense of humor. Listening to her she found it very interesting that Bryon was likely at least half fey. Apparently the bloodlines had been mixing for generations. Although she wasn't pure fey or she would likely happily be living with them with no need for the world of men, dwarves, and elves. "I have met some fey although I have not met a Satyr." With the reputation Satyr's typically had Bryon's description is likely perfectly accurate.

She raises a eyebrow at the thought that infernals were giving similar powers to mortals. That Bryon knew this was a interesting little detail. Infernals often tempted mortals with a variety of gifts power being one of them. "I take it you have had the misfortune of having to fight such a infernally gifted mortal."

Bryon I appreciate the offer, however I would prefer it if no one else wears my wedding dress. She smiles at Cirostis looking at Theo. "It's strategy Theo to try to make the leader harder to find or reach. Varying  how you do things so that you are essentially unpredictable. Takes a bit of effort though as it's easy to fall into old habits."

Smiling at Kyriel she briefly takes her hand giving it a gentle squeeze. "Your welcome Kyriel. I know you will do well. She nods slightly looking at Scrumff. "I am guessing Scrumff will be able to stay hidden. IF we try this though there is also the problem of what to do with me? I can't exactly walk around freely if Bryon looks like me."

Seeing what has happened with the Unicorns Aelasuria nods slightly with a look of understanding.  "It's best that we go now. We can talk elsewhere as Marisol and Procyon has so kindly suggested."

She walks gracefully and quickly with Theo one hand in Theo's as they  make their way over to the building. "She came with my family and King Davanos of Geneva. I haven't met her before today Theo." Just in case she mentions her name again. "Her name is Bryon. I think now that we know the threat is here we can let those who desire is to protect do what they do best. I am guessing they will travel wherever I do from now on. Well at least until the immediate threat is over or we leave Lucimburic as all might not follow the same path."