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The Heartwood
The Rampant Bear, a half day out of Talantal
Morning, Attaday, the twenty-seventh day of Dragon

Bekkah, Daxia, Darian, Mikal, Jankin, Dean, Cesare, Kadri ... Morning Star, Longtooth, Kay and Romana

... several weeks later ...

Many things can happen in several weeks; it is long enough for the very basics of horsemanship can be taught, it is long enough for sore muscles and bruises to both show and fade away as Lisica tests who is the one really in control. It is time enough to learn how to sight and fire a crossbow and actually hit the broad side a barn. And half a out of Talantal, at a roadside tavern - the Rampant Bear - it was long enough to walk across the cobbled street to barter with the smith for use of his forge and anvil.

It is long enough to learn that a feisty young swordswoman has a modicum of skill, though definitely rough around the edges, as if her learning came mostly from surviving the battlefield; that is, no fancy practiced katas, no formal discipline, only the base pragmatic necessity to win at any cost.

Or to put it simply, Kay cheats.

It is most certainly long enough for the children of this outskirt village to learn that if they come bearing apples, they can pet a unicorn.

And equally long enough for curious Knights to learn that no matter how haughty their airs can be they pale beneath that of His Magnificence.

"Oooooooooo Denny! Lookit that, its a Knight from the keep, in all his polished armor!"

"Ah-yup."

"But he isn't movin?"

"Ah-yup."

"Is there a reason he ain't movin?"

"Ah-yup."

"Do you know the reason?"

"Ah-yup."

"Then tell me, you berk!"

"Like in a mirror and all, Blackie ain't done lookin' at his reflection."

"So?"

"Every time the Knight moves, Blackie stomps on his foot."

"Oh."

"Gone through three Squires and two Knights, so far."

"Three Squires and two Knights?"

"Ah-yup."

It is also long enough to discover that fresh hunted meat and properly harvested herbs and wild vegetables can be traded not just for board at the tavern but they pay enough refill the small group's collection of coin. This close to the great keep such skills are rare and thus both Jankin and Darian and Longtooth find themselves in great demand. Though Longtooth did not escape mishap - his nose now bears several rat bites, after discovering that urban rodents are much fiercer than their country counterparts.

That, however, made a simple hunt a greater and thus more enjoyable challenge. Trust Khannish to provide.

And while Darian knew that Longtooth was fit companion against fearsome wolves and bears, the tavern master had true appreciation for a good rat catcher and made sure the ruff was well rewarded.

It was also long enough for black hair to grow white and for Bekkah to make a both fortunate and unfortunate discovery. Her new charge was a voracious learner - and wile Romana was attentive, sharp, and rarely had to be taught anything twice her thirst for knowledge seemed boundless, willing to go deep into the night until exhaustion made her final question for the a snore. She was diligent in her practice, too ...

"DAXIA!"

The Dayalan mentor would have had to look hard across the commons, hearing the cry of her student.

"GET ME OUTTA HERE!"

Indeed, it seemed her ward had vanished, lost beneath bindings white. Romana looked pleased, satisfied, until she spied a mistake and then started to wrap Kay up even more to fix it.

"This is NOT fair ... In Her name ... she's NOT ... supposed ... to be so ..."

Kay's look would be as if trying to send a minotaur deep into the earth.

" ... nice.

"Bah.

"Teach me how to be faster in gettin' away."

Romana's white hair would not go unnoticed. White hair, rare, unthinkable.

"Who is she ...

"Is she fey ... or ... cor ... she can't be ..."

"Does it matter, husband?"

"Of course it does!"

"It didn't when she sat up with Gwynnie when she was taken with fever. All night."

Romana would, however, still wear her floppy hat.

Except, of course, for a more important reason.

"Romanas likes!"

Being half a day out from Talantal had both its advantages and disadvantages. While on this trail one missed the traffic going in and out of the largest city save for that coming from Brockman's or Montague. Two days before every marketday the farmers would stream in, rest a night and then continue to the city, to make sure that they would be set up and trading at the proper time. Couriers would more than occasionally dash back and forth, carrying missives between the Nobles of Talantal and their manors and the two neighboring keeps, prompting a droll notice from the youngest Dayalan.

"You know ... they are sendin' an awful lot of messages back and forth, either someone's all moon calfy and lovey dovey or someone don't trust another well too much."

This would only increase as Midsummer's came closer and closer. It also meant that most folks passed through the villagelet's small square when She was at her highest.

The heralding of the time would come with the passage of the Montague contingent. They would not stop or halt, for that would be to recognize the lower caste they promenaded through. It was a large contingent. It began with horsemen bearing banners gray, followed by fiercely armored guards. The personages ... tall and grim ... rode on their splendidly mantled mounts, Khorall, Damas, the Warlord - in deed the temperature seemed to fall several degrees when Jakal Montague rode through. If his gaze was caught, afterwards on may have felt that a hot bath was necessary; as if he saw the menfolk only in terms of blood upon his sword and the women folk as bedmates, agreeable or not. They passed through the little hamlet as victors, for it was only in their wake that the representative of Brockman's Holdfast followed. The noble's guard, they wore mantling of many shades of gray; the only one's bearing the colors of the dusted fields the aged Khorall Dag himself and his trio of retainers; and of the three there was a disturbing note - none of is retainers, it appeared, had been allowed to bear armor or arms.

This gray rade was the announcement that Midsummer's council would be starting in but a few days.

Upon the next, of course, came further news, carried by merchants and farmers.

" .. aye ... they have arrived. And surprising too; don't the Kierkegaards usually follow in the Vale's wake? Though it is always a joy to see them arrive - how can ones so practical seem so fine. Destriers walking in perfect rhythm, not a hoof beat out of place, furs so fine and yet nary a cut for vanity? They rode as if they were a summer breeze, slow and proper and unstoppable."

" ... is it true that the gates of Talantal got choked when the western folks passed through? That so many children thronged about the Larsen's that all traffic stopped from noon till almost dusk? That both Khorall Tieg and Dama Clarissa refused to move on - despite the demands of the Korie Knights - until they had met and greeted every last one of them all personal like?"

" ... I don't think anyone noticed when Corliss slipped through ... sneaky lot ..."

Finally, upon this Attaday, one of the younger lads, he'd tumble into the tavern all breathless.

" ... she's back. They done sent her back. But this time, cor, laddie ... upon a tall warhorse with that rogue grey splash upon it's neck, jiminy, he's a SHE!

"Aye, aye ... Dawnview's come past the gates, all in their black and white and silver and their bloody mercenary guard.

" ... but it ain't their Khorall they sent ...

" ... still, quiet, small and when she looks at you its as if she looks into your soul and heart ... chilled me to the bones it did.

" ... by the time they passed into the fifth ring ...

" ... they were already calling the lass Snowqueen."

Kadri:

In the interim, Kadri had spent her time - when not teaching Cesare about horses - repairing the outfit she had brought with her, and making sure it fit - acquiring whatever pieces were needed to complete the ensemble. She carefully practiced holding herself with a 'proper' carriage, and adapting her mode of speech - every part of the 'disguise' as it were must be right.

"Romana - white hair, white robes - I may just go blind looking at you."

She smiles, winks.

Mikal

During the intervening weeks Mikal has spent time working with Cesare on the crossbow but also a lot of time practicing with the broadsword and shield with Daxia. He'd had his short sword ripped from his hand on two critical occasions on the trip here and he wants to make sure he becomes as proficient with another style of fighting as he is with short sword and dagger.

He also spends some time with Kadri asking her if she wants to have all of those in her retinue wear any sort of "House Colors", and if so looks into where they might get some new clothes. Otherwise he is happy to wear his normal clothes and armour.

Cesare

Cesare has learned about riding and about firing the crossbow. He has also shown Kadri some of the herbs he has gathered and how to use them to get the best flavours.

Finally also he has the use of a forge to make a dagger for Mikal to pay his debt.

Although he would have liked to spend some time relaxing with Darian, she is hunting with Longtooth and providing much needed services as well as gaining income. He will do what he can via foraging to earn some coin, it will be good to regain some independence, though they seem well established in their relationship now, so much so that most things are shared.

(OOC - Gypsy - Anything special about the dagger?)

OOC: IN my next set)

Daxia

Teaching, training, and... surprisingly... laughing took up much of the red haired Dayalan’s time. Not that most of the laughter was very loud, especially when watching the interactions between Morning Star and the Squires and Knights of Rames. She did feel particularly bad for the third Squire, however. He looked to be even younger than Kay, and tried so hard to maintain a proper demeanor when Morning Star stepped on his foot. The youngster reminded her — ever so slightly, of course — of Dean. She’d wandered over to the pair and patted Morning Star on the neck.

“Now, now, Your Magnificence... I need to remind you that the shiny lads only have two feet that are considerably more delicate than yours. Don’t hurt the nice shiny lads, da?” Daxia motioned the lad to move off while he had the chance. “Don’t worry, dear friend. There are plenty more where he came from. And if they ever get bored playing this little game with you, perhaps Dean would let you stare at his shiny self.” Daxia shook her head, several strands from her mop of hair falling across her face. “Well, of course! He’s our Squire, so that’s probably why it’s not as much fun to play with him.”

And later... a different day, at a different time... she laughed heartily at Romana’s bandaging of her Initiate. “Well done, Romana! I don’t think I’ve ever see bandages so finely wrapped!” Blue eyes inspected the younger Dayalan. “Well, first of all, Kay, she’s a Lady of Attera... she’s supposed to be nice. And second, if you want to evade Romana’s ministrations, you’re going to have to learn how to do that on your own.” She grinned at Kay. “I’ll give you a hint, though... there’s a lesson for you to learn here. And it’s not the same one I had to learn by carrying a leaky bucket up a hill every day.”

Another day, another afternoon after demonstrating to Kay that, while it may well work when sparring with Dean, cheating would do her little good when sparring with her teacher... after all, her teacher’s teacher had been a bit of a cheater herself. It saved time, which left more time for watching clouds. “Hmm... more of the latter, I’d guess. There’s much more distrust in this part of the world than lovey dovey moony calf eyes.”

There had been time to get her shield painted properly, and time to get Kay the things she needed. There’d been time — precious little of it, true — for chatting with Bekkah. Dazi was so very happy for Romana, and excited that she was such a voracious learner, but... ah, well. She and Bekkah had gone years without seeing one another, and only the occasional letter to keep them connected. What was a Council season in Talantal compared to that?

Finally... finally... today, when the lad came running in to tell of Dawnview’s arrival, Daxia had smiled. It would be good to see Dandy and the Horde again.

Her heart did a somersault at the mention of the Snowqueen. So she was playing that role instead of the scattered, strange, bookish Heir, eh? Oh, but it would be more than good to see Kisa again!

“Come along, Kay! That’s our cue. Go change into your best... yes, yes... your best is hardly the finest anymore. I’m sure Lord Kisa will be quite understanding.” She stood at looked at those in the tavern commons with her. “My duty is to Dawnview, but I’m sure our paths will cross. This is likely to be a most interesting Council. The Wild Horde and the Snowqueen?”

Dazi hugged Bekkah. “I know you and your Initiate will take good care of our delicate Amber princess.” She winked at Kadri. Turning to Mikal, she nodded. “And you’ll watch their backs, I know. I hope your duties will allow you the opportunity to greet your Brothers in Dandy’s troop.” Her eyes touched each of them, perhaps lingering a bit longer on Darian and Jankin. “Stay safe, my friends.”

Having been prepared for this day, it didn’t take long for Daxia to gather her belonging and dress in her Temple finest. Morning Star’s coat had been brushed to perfection — which was nothing unusual, as he quite rightly insisted that was his proper due each day — and the mark of the Two Stars on his neck was already perfect.

The two Dayalans set out for Grand Talantal, the elder riding the big black Unicorn... the younger walking beside them.

“I’ll rub your head if you fidget, Kay.”

“And no staring at yourself in the shiny lads’ armor, Morning Star. There will be plenty of time to do that later.”

Part of the Dawnview party, she told the Korie Knights... each one of them. With her black and silver surcoat, the two silver stripes on her shield, riding a Unicorn for Dayala’s sake... she’d have thought it unnecessary to make clear what was clearly obvious. Protocol... protocol... protocol...

Daxia had a feeling she was going to be reminded every minute of this Council session why she was a Wild Dayalan. The only reason she wasn’t fidgeting herself was thing thought of Kassia standing behind her. Or riding behind her. Come to think of it, Dandy could be just as intimidating... though in an entirely different way. Oddly, thinking about that one sparring session she’d had with Barris calmed Dazi’s nerves considerably. She wondered if there’d be time for another lesson...

First, though, she needed to find the stables for Morning Star... and then she needed to find Kisa.

[OOC: I was not going to be so bold as to suggest Dazi would immediately find Kisa in the Grand Hall, especially since she's first looking for the stables where the Wild Horde have been assigned. One might even venture a guess that the Snowqueen could just as easily be found in her rooms as in the Grand Hall.

But if our intention is to cement our relationship as a single group in the eyes of the Kories -- not something I'm sure we want to do, but we could discuss that over in the OOC thread -- then everyone tagging along is a good idea. If, however, we are seemingly separate groups with seemingly separate agendas, then everyone tagging along might not be the best idea.

Food for thought.]

Dama Kadri djinn Khayriyah djinn Terilanquel al'Korie

Hopefully with some assistance from Romana and Bekkah, Kadri finished preparing. She had made no pretense of being inconspicuous this time. Everything she wore was calculated to draw attention. Her face is highlighted, for the first time since they have seen her, with cosmetics - a quite different look for her. She walked forth with a smooth and even gait, more a glide across the ground than a walk. Her carriage was erect and straight, and her shoulders back and chin up. Between the clothing, the cosmetics and the change in gait and carriage - she was, perhaps, almost unrecognizable.



Lisica was likewise brushed and decorated.

"... well, we will see if Kadri djinn Khayriyah djinn Terilanquel al'Korie fits the mold."

Her accent was back in evidence, speaking of the plains of Amber, but with a more educated tinge to it.

"Cesare, while you are with me I may from time to time speak more abruptly to you, or more ... demanding. Know that I mean nothing by it but that it is a role I need play. You are the ... manservant. A trusted - very much trusted - person who helps see to my needs -- and of course, those of Lisica - which should, if needed, give you much excuse for moving back and forth from where I am to wherever you need to go. Wear this ... you as well, Mikal - and it should associate you with me."

She looks to Mikal.

"You, I think, know your job and I need tell you nothing about it, and I would be a fool to try to tell you your business. It will be a great comfort to have you there. The same things I said to Cesare apply - if I sound like I am showing you less than your due respect - I mean nothing by it. You are also an adviser - so you are expected to give your opinion - and I doubt you will have much problem playing that role."

She looks again between both Mikal and Cesare, then over at Bekkah and Romana.

"Please, tell me if I am about to do something stupid."

She grins, and winks at him.

[OOC: Asked and answered. See Post 697981, particularly paragraph 11:


Sorry... I just don't want to keep having the same conversations over and over, or even variations on the theme. I don't have time, and I don't have the interest. My mental health is precarious; as Mokie can attest, I'm so overworked that I've contemplated putting both his boss and the president of the college on my List; and as Pam can attest, the person at work who DOES keep asking the same questions over and over (or variations on the theme) IS on The List. When RPG situations mirror RL situations too closely, I'm going to simply ignore them. Or flip out. That's happened, too.

Now... let's just move along. Nothing to see here. Dazi and Elvis have left the building.]

(Thats cool. I was originally not going to mention it at all, but just stuck that last sentence in there to bring the OOC question in 698769 IC. but now .. see, it has been removed and we can skip the topic altogether easily with no skin off anyone's knuckles)

[ooc: Forgive my slowness ...]
Bekkah

She hid her smile as Romana thoroughly wrapped Kay in bandages.

"Well she will be protected from infection, which is good Romana. But what if you have another couple hands worth of people to aid. Will you have enough bandages at this rate? Also, keep in mind that while we would prefer that a person with injuries worth bandaging would rest, they seldom listen. Sometimes they cannot afford to, such is the realities of conflict. So it is best to use the least amount of bandage that will keep the wound from becoming worse, but still allow the person to continue with their tasks.

"Remove those and try again, this time using the least amount as possible. Kay, thank you for your patience." she said still fighting to hide a smirk.

It was obvious to anyone close to Bekkah that she was close to exhaustion. Romana pushed her as hard as any student in her efforts to learn everything as fast as possible. Despite wearing out her teacher, she was an excellent student. She did everything Bekkah asked of her and it was clear she really wanted to be a Lady of Attera. She most certainly was not doing this out of need. Once that had been clear and Romana fully understood what she was getting into, Bekkah performed the initiation rites, welcoming her as an initiate of Attera. The ceremony was a quick, quiet thing with all of the group bearing witness.

Mikal

He puts on the item Kadri provides that indicates he is part of her retinue, although he wears all his armour, cleaned to a shiny finish naturally, and all his weapons, including the new dagger he received from Cesare.

He follows Kadri's retinue, frequently changing position. Sometimes walking ahead, when sight-lines are not good to ensure a clear path and sometimes behind or alongside depending on the configuration of the street, building, and crowd. He takes in the rings of the city they pass through, marking their route as well as potential escape route and good options for defensive positions or buildings. He notes the crowd, listening to their conversations but filtering through it for comments regarding their group.

He nods to Kadri's comment, replying, "As your bodyguard, I expect to listen to you in all areas other than things that impact your physical protection. Should I give you a forceful, perhaps abrupt, instruction to do something, I will need you to listen without question. You have my apology in advance if I sound rude, but I may not have time to argue or explain myself."

Cesare

He too dons the 'colours'.

"Don't worry about how you speak to me, my lady."

He grins.

"Whatever you say, I can guarantee I've had worse - I'll just have to watch answering back."

He chuckles, but then looks more serious as he turns to Mikal.

"However, if we need a distraction, it could be a good one. Just don't hit me too hard."

He takes a moment for a whispered conversation with Darian and a quick but fierce embrace before he takes his 'place' at Liscia's head to walk alongside the horse Kadri is riding.

He is pleased that Mikal is taking the dagger he made. He had been taught the craft by his Uncle and crafted it in the Rhoni tradition, searching for the soul in the blade, working long and hard to fold the metal seeking the point where it stands on its own. It is lighter and stronger than most daggers, built for fighting. Cesare has a matched pair of his own.

OOC note: This is the folded steel tradition found in the crafting of traditional Japanese swords.

[OOC Thanks, interesting! And we are all heading that way but maybe not Jankin, maybe not Darian ]

OOC:(Yup. It would appear so. Although not in a manner of being evidently _together_ as such, at least not all of us)

The Heartwood
Talantal, the Grand Duchy of Talantal
Late Morning, Attaday, the twenty-seventh day of Dragon

Bekkah, Daxia, Darian, Mikal, Jankin, Dean, Cesare, Kadri ... Morning Star, Longtooth, Kay and Romana

"My best? My finest?"

Simple words took the once-farmgirl by a token of surprise. She looked behind her, for by the will and generosity of those she rode wih, practiced with and been bandaged by, she now did have more than sword and shield and armor. Koromov now had clothes, a pack, some travelling gear, a change or two of tunics and in preparation for their Midsummer's masquerade di hav something that could be considered her best, her finest.

But she just looked at the finery, her head canting to the side.

And chose different.

" ... you said, the dama-heiress would understand, right?"

As she spoke, she did consider one bit of extravagance, reaching back behind her to gather her long hair in a equally long pony tail, binding it with a ribbon of faded white, tying a bow that was definitely awkward and off balance. That she refused to let any correct.

" ... Lily-kin's ribbon."

Was all she would say to that.

Passage through the first Ring of Talantal was fairly straight forward, one small group just a little ahead of the next. Foreigners coming through the gate was not an unusual sight, per se. It was Midsummer, it was the council, and thus strangers of all sorts and kinds passed through the gates; indeed the Amber contingent had yet to arrive which was the usual gauge of difference. Though perhaps for the first time they would lose that distinction.

"See I toldja ... a unicorn, a unicorn. Black as midnight! They do exist, see, see see ..."

"You know it doesn't look all that friendly."

"Cor ... it looks fiercer than one of the Khorall's destriers."

"Cor ... it is a destrier ..."

The second little group caused just as much speculation as the first, for the regalia of the Plains of Kaa was both bold and recognizable. Lisica for sure, the exotic plainswoman clothing unmistakable. And an entourage all proper and sure, in deed it was a fine lady who was riding up the finely paved road into the most grand of the colonial cities. Though there would be more than a few whispers.

"They are here, they are here, they are .... hey, where's the rest of them?"

"... oooooooooooooooo ... so so so pretty ..."

"Where are the Amber Lords? What manner of insult is this!"

"Which one ..."

" ... I don't understad; why isn't she bearing the banners of Kaa?"

"The fine lady ... "

"Is there trouble between the Halahmbrah and the Kories?"

"The Lady of Attera ..."

" ... well you know how they feel about the Montagues."

"Her apprentice ..."

"Her apprentice?

"By Krysta's cold heart ..."

The first ring of Talantal, by far the largets and most ample was aptly and commonly called the Commoner's Ring. While the slum like villagelets clung to the keep's outside walls, if you had a modicum of coin and success you could find a home here. The houses were mostly single storied, with thatched roofs, and there were scatterings of gardens and open spaces. Come Marketday these places would be filled with farmers selling their harvests; definitely full of bustle and trade. Entrance to the Commoner's Ring was almost a matter of course, the guards, knowing that this was one of the lowest postings, were a touch bored and nonchalant - the barest identification needed. In this case all it took were a noble's fine clothes, the gold crosses of an Imperial church and the natural place of those who serve that provided passage. Indeed it was only as they passed beneath the double portcullis and halfway towards the next gate that one of them turned to the other with a shocked,

"What did we just let through ..."

The second ring of Talantal was the Craftsman's Ring. This portion of the city attracted Bekkah's attention, because this was the ring where the jeweler's shops were. Sturdy half timbered affairs of two stories, housing places where things were made and where their makers lived. Blacksmiths and their forges; indeed all the various types of smithing each with their own place - armorers, swordsmiths, tinkers, nail and horseshoe makers. The only shop not found here was the tanner's. Longtooth, Darian and Jankin would have easily found where the tanners and leatherworkers were; far outside the duchy-keep and more importantly, far downwind from Talantal. Tailors, clothiers, furriers and seamstress shops had their own quarter of a ring; both crafting clothes from spare to fine and also selling cloths and garb from far beyond Talantal. Passage into the second ring was similar to the first; if it looked like you belonged and would brook no contrary discussion, and perhaps more importantly it being so close to Midsummers, one was let pass by.

The third ring, that was an issue, pe se.

But not an unsolvable one.

The third ring of Talantal was the Merchant's Ring. And thus, of course, the proper application of coin to pay the toll would silence both questions and any possible disagreement.

Here was the first hint of the scale of Talantal's grandness. Halfway through the ring was the first true hostel; it was almost as large and fine as the entire church at Cragside.

"Wait .. wait ... who is that ... I don't recognize her."

"Recognize her ... what about her?"

"... oh by Her Kindness and Mercy ..."

"... Darcy! I need you to run to the Chapel!"

"... Marcy! I need you to run down to the first ring and snare the lass Kolleen. We are gonna need a couple caskets."

As the second group walked by they created quite a stir outside of the Atteran hospital. In the end, two initiates took off from the finely appointed and colonnaded entry. Similar height, similar size, similar young age, both dressed in identical creams and white. One ran as fast as she could ahead, towards the center of the city. The other, back along their previous path towards Talantal's lower ramparts,

"... oh by Her Kindness and her Mercy, Father and Brother are to die of apoplexy ..."

In someways, this attention benefited Daxia and Kay.

At the next gate, aye the guard seemed to have doubled, a set of Knights upon their Korie mantled destriers paced darkly, furtively. Though they did recognize the Dayalan regalia; they were ushered into the forth ring with a very condescending,

"You are late."

Which meant, of course, they were waiting when Kadri and her extended family made their way to the gate in the forth ring.

"I don't care who you claim to be ... what is that thing doing here ... doing here alive?"

Thus, swords were already out when the Lady of Attera and her Initiate came to a stop.

To which there was a simple answer from a bowed white haired head.

"Romanas ... Romanas dont feel safe in this city."

She looked up. There was a sharpness in her gaze as she parlayed up a quiet request, one she had done once before, to a Squire named Dean.

This time, she addressed a Knight of Rames.

"Please protect me."

"Protect you, demon-spawn? Why should I even deign to give you a quick death?"

"Last time Romanas looked, Romanas was girl."

The Knight upon his destrier made an odd choking sound. His expression was one of anger, frustration and fury. Which was answered by a sapphire eyed blink and a completely innocent tug upon new white tunics.

"Must Romanas prove?"

As they processed then through the fourth, the Noble's Ring, three things happened. Romana's tunic stayed all nice and proper. A Knight turned a deeper shade of red than his surcoat. And the fine Lady Kadri had gained an escort of proud Imperial Court knights.

The Noble's Ring was one of penultimate grandeur. The houses were tall, getting taller as they got closer to the town's center, as if the number of stories were related to one's social standing. There were gardens here too, expansive and well maintained, but where they were for vegetables and providing trading space in the first ring here they were for simple decoration and enjoyment; a celebration of caste as opposed to the pragmatics of natural growth. The buildings here were made of stone; the oldest built of honey colored marbles ... the newer in sturdy gray stones. It was also clean; the streets swept, the sewers clear, windows and metals polished. It was the smallest of the town's quarters, forming a grand promenade to the Fifth Ring.

The Fifth Ring, in truth, while it did hold interior courts and greenspace, it was not a truly a ring.

It was the citadel of the Noble Family Korie.

"Starrider, eh? You are late. You'll get your escort to the great hall, and we'll find a stall for your ... whatever and your squire-lass."

"I go with her."

It had been a long walk up from the first gate. And while Daxia had ridden the way, her initiate had walked. But it was not with exhaustion that she spoke, but another sort of grimness. And she spoke not to the guard before them, but to the older one in finery standing behind; obviously a captain. it was a strange tone to hear from the short Initiate, but it was similar to a steel Daxia had heard before, in Cragside, from another of the Initiate's family.

Kay stood there, in the same garb that Daxia had first saw her in. Her battered armor, a round shield, leaning upon a tall spear from which hung tattered ribbons in white and black and red, the colors of the Allaine Family Guard. A surcoat in black and silver that was almost in tatters, with stains of dull brown that she could never wash out. And they eyes that locked with the Rames commander were even and solid. They were not a look of a young farmgirl. In his life, perhaps, the Captain of the Guard had fought - but just brigands, malcontents, criminals. Tales of more brutal conflicts were just that; tales the minstrels sung, to be boasted about and bandied with on a late evening, before a fire, with a mug of wine in one hand. For the eyes that locked with his they were not tales. They had seen the truth of it. At the Darkdown Pass. At the Fall of Tor-an-dal. Along the Road East, when Cragside fell and the massacre that was Bordertown. Eyes that had seen betrayal upon the Silk Creek Bridge.

The Knight was unable to hold Ekaterina Koromov's gaze and they were let inside.

She had, as Daxia had requested, worn her very best.

The Heartwood
Talantal, the Grand Duchy of Talantal
Late Afternoon, Attaday, the twenty-seventh day of Dragon

Bekkah, Daxia, Mikal, Dean, Cesare, Kadri ... Morning Star, Kay and Romana

The hall that Daxia and Kay were escorted to was large, almost cathedral sized except for where the pulpit would be there was a large fireplace. Before it was set a high table, long and fine and for the moment now clear of anything except a handful of bakery baskets and carafes of drink; probably wine. Two wings swept back from the center proper, extending towards the entrance. There was an arcade on each side, each supporting a gallery, behind which rose windows of stained glass. The four closest to the head of the hall were of the Imperial deities, the others older, showing images of Talantal's long history. At the moment all discussion was focused upon the very center of the High Table, where there was a very unique gathering. Behind the table there were the Banners of the Nobles who had arrived. The Star and Laurel of Talantal, the Grays of Montague, Brockman's Longsword, the Seahorse from Talesan's Village, the Mountain colors of Highgaard and the Red, Black and White of Dawnview Vale. Only the various banners of the Clans of Amber were missing. Standing next to the hearth was a little lass in white and cream; she looked nervous and out of place. She wore the cross of Attera and Daxia did recognize her; she had run past them, bound for the keep, somewhere in the Noble's ring.

In the tallest chair was a dark haired man, though his hair is streaked with gray turning white. tall and still strong looking, he sits with crossed arms, a frown upon his features. To his right is a younger version of himself, standing, fist pounding upon the hard wooden table.

"We cannot let this be ..."

Next to him, seated, is a harshly pretty woman, she seems far younger than the man she sits next to, arms crossed, eyes narrowed, simply listening to the debate.

"They must be put back in their place."

This was spoken by a man with nighy black hair, spoken sure and harsh. He wore a surcoat of mottled grays, except, different, there was a splash of red across the monotone, a harsh and bloody skewed stripe. His face looked as if carved from stone, broken by scars that were echoed on his arms. Next to him, in the second tallest chair, was an older man, also of the same rough hewn stock. if there was any distinguishing mark it was that his contenance was too perfect; nary a scar or even a broken nose; as if he made sure to chose only winning fights. He was simply sitting back, hands folded in his lap, almost amused, as if how the nobles beside him solved their current dilemma was of great amusement. On one of the side tables a fair haired man in soft blues listened quietly, holding a roll and breaking off bits and pieces of it to nibble on. he seemed more curious in the situation than invested in it. Across from him were two other lords; obviously Father and younger son. They had light coloured eyes and light coloured hair, and were garbed in clothing that was imminently practical.

The last occupant of this noble holding could not be readily seen, save for a pair of hands holding open a tall book, as if completely disinterested ... or shy overwhelmed ... by the discussion.

Of course there were also the retinues; men at arms in gray, marshalls, knights and seneschals in Korie purple; a lady in sea colored blues offering the Atteran Initiate a drink from a carafe, sturdy Kierkegaard guards ... and last, behind the shy scholar, a slender swordswoman with long cornsilk hair. She listened, arms crossed, the conversation making her expression stern. She did not wear the colors of any house; but she wore the black and silver of Dayala. Black and silver decorated by a bold gray starburst.

This was the scene that Daxia escorted Kay into.

Though they were only halfway down the hall when the doors were then again thrown open, to introduce a new group to this courtly discussion. They were led and followed by a set of rames Knights; the same Knights who had met them at the Noble's gate and gave them passage into Talantal's final ring.

Kadri. Dean. Mikal. Cesare. And the focus of the conversation, Bekkah and her Initiate.

"My Liege may I ..."

The leader of the Rames escort tried to speak but was immediately interrupted.

"Captain Donnerson, I want you to arrest those two ... send the old one back to the cathedral for retraining or whatever you do to idiot priestesses and the other hung from the tallest tower until she dies ..."

These were the immediate words of the older Noble, the one with black and graying hair, curt and decisive, harsh and true.

"No."

Those quiet spoken words simply floated up from behind the big, tall book.

"What do you mean No? How dare you say no, in my Keep, in my Town, with my Imperial servants?"

"Because if that is Bekkah Yurisdotter she was born on the north shore of Emerald Lake which makes her my Lady of Attera."

The lead Knight then interrupted,

"My liege?"

The Khorall fumed, dismissing the Knight with a wave of his hand.

"And just why should I care if this pair is yours? They are in my keep."

"Alieanus Castielson."

"Who the blazes is Alieanus Castielson?"

To that one of the retainers simply whispered in the Korie's ear. The Khorall gave the book a sudden, dark and very dissatisfied look.

"My Liege?"

Again the knight tried to speak. This time the checkmated Khorall decided to answer the Knight, using it to sharply change the current matter at hand.

"What? What could be so important. Come on, spit it out. Your Khorall commands."

"May I ..."

"YES!"

"May I introduce to you ..."

"Get on with i!"

" ... lady ... Dama ... Dama ...."

Obviously the Knight was having trouble finding the words.

"Dama Kadri djinn Khayriyah djinn Terilanquel al'Korie."

One could hear a goblet drop in the grand hall, the silence hit so hard.

In fact, one did.

"It appears Lord Dominic got married."

The silence echoed like thunder.

That caused the reclusive one to look up from behind her tall, leather bound book. Red hair, long and flowing, as if it had never been cut; young, somewhere between Romana and Daxia in winters, dressed in a pure white tunic with a surcoat black as night. It was so close to the Dayalan starrider's excepting the two vertical stripes were white, not silver.

And for the first time ever ...

... Daxia saw a look of absolute surprise on the face of Dama Kisa Linette Allaine.

<< fixed a couple typos ... meeeps!>>

Daxia

Daxia had nodded her approval of Kay wearing Lily Allaine’s ribbon. It was quite proper, especially when she herself had Kisa Allaine’s ribbon tied around the pommel of her sword.

At the fourth gate, to the Korie guard, Daxia had merely shrugged and said nothing. There was really no point in saying anything to a statement which merely served to point out the obvious... at least not here.

At Dominic’s tiny village, however, she had replied, “Indeed... so I’ve been told.” Before she could correct their reception committee regarding Kay’s status however, her Initiate spoke up for herself. It was simple, it was elegant, and it was exactly what Daxia would have said. And then she watched as the youngest Dayalan stared down the Captain of the Korie Guard. The Starrider refrained from smiling as they followed their escort... but she thought, perhaps, the emotion she felt might have been something akin to what Kassia had felt once or twice. She did not rap the youngster on the head, nor did she tousle her hair — that would have sent her crooked ribbon even more askew, though without that ribbon Kay might have found her head being rubbed.

Instead, the elder Dayalan whispered only three words to the younger.

“Well done, Kay.”

Before entering the grand hall, she reminded Kay softly, “Don’t speak, only watch. There will be time later to answer questions.”

Daxia walked across the hall toward the Allaine hiding behind the enormous book and the Captain of the Wild Horde. The conversation was unsurprising, given all the things Dominic had said... given who Romana was. Even the name Kisa mentioned sparked a memory; in fact, the very words she’d spoken on that summer day came to mind.

I see deceit. Looking further, looking past today and this season and this year, I see... trouble.

What had been a lesson four years ago had become something so obvious once she had left the Vale that it was almost laughable. She’d been so naive!

Kadri and her entourage entered behind the two Dayalans. In the absolute and utter silence, Daxia stopped. For the most part, it was to be silent... to keep her spurs and boot heels from joining the sound of the dropped goblet. However, it gave her a chance to observe those gathered... not just her dearest friend’s look of surprise — it was stunningly beautiful, and had Kassia not been her teacher, Daxia might have simply looked at Kisa and reflected surprise back. But her eyes moved around the entire room as her expression remained impassive... to Dandy first, and then to observe individually and as a whole the Nobles and their retainers. It took only the space of time to inhale slowly, and exhale again... not quite a fullhand of heartbeats. But it was enough time to relinquish to the silence. And then Daxia continued toward the Heir, to take her place behind her.

But not before pulling a piece or two of folded paper from her pouch and offering them to Kisa.

“Pardon our tardiness, Dama,” she said with a slight bow as she placed the papers in Kisa’s hand. “I am to give you this message.” It was an odd turn of phrase, to be sure... but then, the Dawnview dialect was odd, was it not? Then, as a proper member of the Allaine House Guard, she stepped back... nodding to Kay to indicate her place, and then nodding to Dandy.

“Captain.”

And finally Daxia took up her familiar role as observer. She was not here to watch Kisa, though... not in this Court. And she was not necessarily here to watch anyone else in particular gather at the Korie Court.

She was here to See the Paths... to See the Pattern in the tiles before they tumbled. This would be no heraldic rose.

Dayatina al sedenstevie.

Cesare

He follows keeping to his place and with his head down in what he hopes is a dutiful manner. Keeping a low profile and to the rear of a gathering is second nature to him and so that at least falls naturally. However Cesare feels he has entered a nest of vipers, which he probably has, and therefore, like prey, does not want to draw attention to himself.

He knows from experience that in his sort of garb he will gernerally be ignored as not being worth attention.. assuming he can avoid drawing attention.. and he fully intends to do just that.

Therefore he doesn't scrutinise those gathered, even the meeting of eyes could be considered rude. He just stands still, fades into the background and is content to stay there.

Bekkah

*OLD ONE* the words echoed in her mind, her cheeks colored and fury rose. Only years of training let her maintain her calm. She was ready to put a hand on Romana if she lost her own temper or step between her and anyone foolish enough to actually try and take Romana.

When Kisa stood up for her, she bowed her head slightly in thanks and forced herself to calm.

*Old indeed* she thought wanting to box that one's ears.

Kadri



Through each gate, Kadri rode, her carriage straight and erect, and her expression one of serenity. Through the first rings - there she allowed Lisica a little leeway to show off for those admiring her - she was of the finest of horses; she should be admired. She realized, entirely, that the lack of banners and other things indicating the full retinue of Amber would cause some stir. This was not unintentional.

Through the second ring. This was, of course, no issue. Kadri kept the look of one should not brook argument on the way to her goal - so the third ring. Coin exchanged hands, and she moved on. The confrontation with the knights was - briefly - worrying - but then - the corner of her mouth could not help but raise slightly at Romana's handling of the Knights of Rames.

She briefly flits her eyes towards nearby shadow.

"Lady. I think today Romana makes you laugh. I know she does me." She said, under her voice.

She looked around the city. While she perhaps more likes simple towns - she could not help but find this ... impressive, of course. So, this is where the important people live among the stone walls of Talantal. She looks up briefly at the citadel, then nods as if it were a mildly interesting sight to be filed away for later consideration.

The final ring, and a door - to a great hall. She felt momentarily nervous - before dismissing it. This was the hunter and the hunted playing their game; the game was about to begin - and - she hoped - she could begin it with a flash. Doublebluff indeed - only actually a much older game in its own way.

As she entered the hall, her eyes cast around those at its center.

The Khorall, of course. Then these must be 'family'.

The corner of her mouth lifts again.

Another argument regarding Bekkah and Romana - seemingly soon enough handled.
Then, the flustered knight.

"Dama Kadri djinn Khayriyah djinn Terilanquel al'Korie."

Silence, the clatter of a metal goblet on the stone.

"It appears Lord Dominic got married."

It appeared that she currently had their attention ... "Very well, Lady Mine, here we go." She thought to herself.

She glides forward a few steps, first crosses her arms and bows in her own style - and then executes a near-perfect curtesy - she had made sure to drill on that - in a sweeping graceful style.

"It is good to meet you Father. Does this day find you well?"

She tinges her speech with just enough of the accent of the plains that, if any had failed previously, somehow, to realize her origins, it would be obvious.

Her smile, perhaps, looks uncannily like one that Dominic himself might make.

Mikal

He rides next to Kadri, newly cleaned and oiled armour over the clothing Kadri provided announcing him as one of hers. He rides sometimes a pace ahead and sometimes a pace behind. He wears his shield on one arm, crossbow on his saddle pommel, swords sheathed but cleaned, sharpened, oiled, and ready. His new dagger from Cesare on his hip near his Main-Gauche. He carries the shield, it's device displayed, mostly as a potential protection for Kadri. Should he detect anyone making any attempt on her during the open ride through town, he would be able to reach across and provide partial cover for her with the shield.

As they reach the Ring Gates, he stations himself between the guards and Kadri, content to simply be. Clearly recognizable for what he is.

At the fourth Ring Gate, he tenses as the confrontation escalates with the Knights, hand dropping to his sword's pommel, but breathes a short sigh of relief as things pass.

He observes the confrontation between the Dayalans and the Guards with less concern, knowing Daxia can take care of anything that happens, and giving a short nod of approval at Kay's handling of it.

Upon finally reaching the citadel, he reluctantly leaves Talia with the other mounts in the hands of groomsmen and enters along with Kadri, Cesare, Dean, Bekkah, and Romana. His eyes flick everywhere, not trusting anyone in this place. Only when they finally enter the final Council Chamber does he drop back a full pace behind Kadri, and to one side, keeping a watchful silence as the discussions proceed. He does his best to place names with people as they speak. His eyes pause an extra moment on Captain Dandy, being the only person in the room whom he has met before, but he stops himself from making any acknowledgement lest the presumed association interfere somehow with Kadri's plans.

The Heartwood
Talantal, the Grand Duchy of Talantal
Late Afternoon, Attaday, the twenty-seventh day of Dragon

Bekkah, Daxia, Mikal, Dean, Cesare, Kadri ... Kay and Romana

"Father?

"Father?

"FATHER?!?!?!?!?"

The eldest Korie, the man with the dark hair that was certainly getting even more gray, even more white as he spoke, stood. His hands slammed down upon the high table, palms flat, in a perfect single whumf.

"Marcus! Where in all of Krysta's hells is my Judge? My Judge, My Captain and the Mistress of ... of ...."

He waved his hand at Bekkah and her Initiate.

" ... her church."

The younger Korie, the presumable heir, looked to his sire, then to Kadri and her household, and with a deep dark frown turned to the man who had whispered into Dorian's ear.

"Well you heard them, get to ..."

"Marcus ..."

Dorian Korie, without turning his head, growled his son's name.

"Yes ,,, sir."

Marcus Korie made his way to follow his Father's command, roughly grabbing the seneschal's arm as he did, violently dragging the man along with him towards one of the gallery exits. In his wake the woman who had sat beside him - perhaps his new wife - remained and at both the heir's departure and the Khorall's correction just smiled. Though it was anything but a friendly smile.

"Judge? Your Rames Knight and his Lady? Don't tell me you are actually going to tolerate this whelp's charade? "

This time it was a Montague who spoke, the one with the bloody swath across his surcoat. His words cut like a stonecutter's chisel, each one grim and tinged with malice. He continued.

"Give me three bells with her and ...."

WHAM!

Sure, sharp and hard, no sibling's love tap, the black haired man was rapped across the back of his head by the second Montague, the older one.

"Jakal. HUSH. How many times do I have to tell you that when in court, you keep your bloody mouth SHUT."

Khorall Hadrian Montague did, however, have a comment of his own. He spoke directly to the Korie.

" ... the second marriage of a Korie was supposed to join with house Montague, bother Dorian. As you can tell, my less than circumspect brother does not take such dis-compliments very well."

The Korie's attention, however, had already returned to Kadri. For the moment the Montague was ignored. Jakal's expression, somehow, darkened even more.

"Lass, if you are lying we shall give your story the wings of a nighthawk when we toss you from our highest tower. You had better hope you can fly as well as that bird and land even better."

As this exchange occurred there we other reaction across the hall. The Kierkegaard delegation looked between the Amber lady and her new in-laws, staying silent, though the elder could not help but smirk. He probably had met Dominic. The Allaine heir simply slipped back beneath the shelter of her book, biting her cheek a little bit before taking a breath and closing her eyes. It was a practice that at least one of this gathering had seen before; it was her thinking about doublebluff tiles.

The lord in the light blue garb, however, could not help but stand, raising a goblet with bright words.

"Now this is grand midsummer's news; we offer our congratulations and wishes for a wonderful and long life to the happy couple ... and ... many ... healthy ... uhm ... oh ... apologies your Dorianship."

The look the Khorall Korie gave the Khorall Larsen was spoke silent volumes before a small exclamation interrupted.

" ... gawk!"

For a few handful of heartbeats a smallish kerfluffle stole the court's attention. As proper, the two newest of the Allaine retinue took their place, behind the Allaine heir; Daxia upon Kisa's left shoulder, Kay upon right. Which, by happenstance, placed Kay between the heiress and her slender blonde escort. It was a simple motion for the elder Koromov to unceremoniously and very pragmatically grab Kay by the scruff of her neck and lift her to the side. There was a flurry of legs and arms before the younger lass was set down. Captain Koromov silently tapped her sword, snapped Kay's spear with her knuckles and then tapped the shorter woman's head with the palm of her hand.

Kay narrowed her eyes, thought a few moments, looked up at her spear, stayed put and simply gnawed upon her lower lip.

" ... at least yah didn't ruffle me."

That simple grumble heralded Lord Marcus' return and in his tow were three personages of the Imperial Court. the first was a rather heavyset - a better word might be rotund - man in deep blue robes. In one hand he carried a tall and ornate staff, the other a leather bound and gold gilded tome. The second was a Knight in full regalia; or at least the odd regalia that was the melding of Korie colors and those of Lord Rames the Protector. The last was an elderly woman in creams and whites, her hair - oddly - shorn shoulder short but still almost as white as Romana's. At that the Khorall frowned.

"I meant the Lady Jasmine. Not ..."

Marcus just held up his hands, palms upwards.

"My dear Lady Anastasia ..."

Dorian Korie's words oozed molasses.

"My dear lady, you should be resting; taking your enjoyment of your twilight years; Lady Jasmine watches over our church no ..."

The elderly Atteran didn't even let the Khorall finish his sentence.

"I am still the ranking Priestess, you young whippersnapper."

She looked to Kadri's small group, her gaze finding Bekkah's charge.

"Besides, this I had to see for myself.

"Sister Bekkah Yurisdotter, Lady bless. Just what are you doing this side of the Silk Creek Ravine and just where did you find this youngling?"

".... enough!"

The Khorall's sharp word sliced across the Court as he turned his attention to the large man with a staff.

"Justice Hawthorne; this .... girl ... claims to be my wayward Brother's wife. Is this True?"

The Judge of Hastur could not hide his surprise. Nor would the other two - the Knight simply placing his hand over his face and the Priestess looked to Kadri. The best description of her expression would be ... impressed. The Judge finally straightened himself, concentrated, opening his book as he spoke, his words ponderous and theatrically as weighty as he.

"Lord Hastur, He who watches over our lives, He who strikes the balance between Rightful Law and Terrible Chaos, who Judges Right from Wrong, to whom truth is your child and from your gaze a lie cannot hide ... We beseech you in this matter of grave importance, to discern light from shadow, night from day, has Lord Dominic Dominie Korie truly taken this woman for his wife?"

He would then wait.

And wait.

And wait.

And wait.

Those in the courtroom would look between each other and to the Judge. Who looked into his book. The Priestess looked over his shoulder.

"Harry. The page is still blank."

"I know it is! What manner of sorcery is this! What have you brought into this court!"

"Harry."

"What!"

"Just ask if they are married."

The justice scowled.

" .... fine. Dandy. Wonderful. Are they married."

The Justice frowned. He looked to his Khorall.

"Well?"

"You aren't going to like this ..."

"WELL?"

" ... by the laws and customs of our lands, aye."

The Khorall Larsen immediately stood up again!

"Now this is grand midsummer's news; we offer our congratulations and wishes for a wonderful and long life to the happy couple ... and ... many ... healthy ... uhm ... oh ... apologies your Dorianship."

The look the Khorall Korie gave the Khorall Larsen was identical to the first. he then swiveled his attention back to the newest Lady Korie.

"Well ... daughter ... welcome ... home."

Somehow the words did not come out sounding very welcoming.

"So little one. Introduce yourself to me.

"Introduce your rather bizarre household to me."

He held up his hand.

"Nonono ... I want to hear who they are ... in their own words."

One by one he took in Kadri's retinue, awaiting each personal answer. Mikal. Cesare. Dean. Bekkah. and yes, of course, Romana.

"Oh.

"And one more question.

"Does your Father know what you have done?"

Kadri

Oh dear. It seemed she really had upset the apple cart. A few of those apples were rolling all the way to The High Tarn and the plains of Kaa - and from the look on the face of the Dama Allaine - Dawnview vale. For a few heartbeats, while the book of the justice remained blank, her heart had almost stopped. Thankfully, it started again.

Her face became much more serious, her voice calm and steady and without quaver - any anxieties submerged, quite deeply; here there was no "fight or flight" - flight was simply not an option - for the moment. Wherever she was still herself, there was freedom. Never had freedom felt so much like being the prospective next meal for a pack of ravenous wolves. Never had she had so many eyes looking directly at her.

For the briefest of moments her eyes flicker to one side, as she speaks - in her head.

Lady mine, I do hope you get at least a snicker out of catching an entire keep of the high and mighty with their pants around their ankles ..."

Then her eyes go straight back to resting steadily on the Khorral.

"Were I lying, father, of all places I would dare to appear - at your court would not be one of them. I am Kadri, daughter of Khayriyah, of the ancient and honored line of Terilanquel. If you find it necessary, I will repeat my bloodline back through as many generations as you wish. Mother made me repeat it often enough. Or you may ask the honored justice if I am who I say I am. He will tell you my words are true."

She folds her hands in front of her, one on top of the other.

This was a time for some truths, if not all truths. For lies would at this time be unwise. While under the eye of Hastur was no time to speak falsehoods.

Her eyes glinted, and narrowed slightly.

"My father desired me to be a political favor to be handed out. I decided otherwise. So, I left. As for 'what I have done' - aside from joining the Honored House of Korie - by now, he may well know. If he does not know he assuredly soon will. I find that I now must say - it is no longer his business. I am who I am. Kadri djinn Khayriyah djinn Terilanquel al'Korie."

She looks over briefly towards the table with the Montagues.

"You will neither wish to believe nor accept if you do, I have no doubt. But this was in no way intended as a slight toward you and yours - who before this day I would not have recognized, and whose marriage plans I was unaware of."

Absolutely true. Through Mikal and recent events she bore the Montagues no love ... But at the time they had been the farthest of things from her mind.

"As for my associates and friends - as you say, they can speak for themselves."

(OOC - Wolf, since you mentioned the banner of Brockman's was present but I did not see Dab Brockman mentioned by name I wasn't certain if he was here. Posted as if he was. Let me know if I need to edit.)

Mikal

He continues to observe the...., well menagerie is the best word he can conjure up. He is strongly reminded, once again, why he has spent his life avoiding places and situations such as this and he offers a silent prayer to Jvrill.

**I do not know what I have done to so offend you as to have me in such a situation as this. I will do my best to represent our order and your will, but when we finally meet face to face I will demand explanation.**

His eyes dart back and forth as the speakers jump back and forth. His only movements a slight tightening around his eyes and small flexing of the muscles in his sword arm when the Montagues make their statements.

As the priest acknowledges Kadri's position he breathes a short sigh of relief, and after Kadri answers the questions about her family line and turns to he and the others near him to introduce themselves, he speaks, briefly and precisely.

"Llugh D'Allyne, My Lord." He replies to the Khorall, avoiding looking at the Montague retinue as best as he can, eyes focused on the Korie Lord. If they take in anyone else, they occasionally flick towards the Dayalans. Although as he speaks he offers a solid glance to Khorall Dab Brockman, perhaps coincidentally coinciding with his speaking the words 'My Lord'.

"Of Brockman's. I have the honour to be bodyguard to Lady Kadri."

The fact he is of Jvrill is obvious by his shield's device, so he doesn't bother to mention it. Besides the fact that with all the followers of Rames, Hastur, and Attera present he sees no need to emphasize it.

He then stops, allowing the others to speak in their turn.

Daxia

As their fingers touched, and Kisa slipped another of her Doublebluff tiles into Daxia’s hand — something seen only, perhaps, by the sharp eyed Captain Koromov — the flame haired Dayalan inclined her head slightly, acknowledging the gift as well as her understanding of its message. Her place at Kisa’s shoulder was only far enough away so her proximity didn’t encroach on her Liege, and she herself had free movement to draw her sword if necessary... but definitely close enough so that there was no doubt she was the Allaine Heir’s personal bodyguard.

Watching and listening to the exchange between the Korie and the Montague delegations... watching and listening to the exchanges within each of the families... Daxia quickly realized that Kisa’s message was simply a confirmation of a conclusion she reached very quickly. She also wondered, at Jakal Montague’s outburst, if dear Dominie hadn’t declared Kadri to be his wife, in part, to garner this very reaction from the Montague Warlord.

Knowing Dominic... yes, it was likely.

At least Khorall Kierkegaard seemed amused by it. His good humor over the youngest Korie’s antics might balance out whatever annoyance he’d feel when he realized the young Amber lass was the Amber lass promised to marry his Heir. On the other hand, given all she’d learned since leaving the Vale, there was also the possibility that neither Khorall Kristof nor Lord Rikart knew exactly which Amber lass the Heir was to marry to bind Amber in a closer alliance to Kierkegaard. There were, after all, so many Amber lasses.

She sensed more than saw Kisa looking at the Pattern of Doublebluff tiles behind closed eyes; Daxia could sense the Pattern and the Paths well enough here that she knew it was a time and a place where the tiles had been set up again, waiting only for the event that would cause the tiles to tumble one against the next, to determine the final Pattern. She knew she’d be able to see that Pattern... dayatina al sedenstevie... if she closed her eyes — something she was most assuredly not enough of a cobble block to do in this room with these people, even if the Captain of the Wild Horde did stand at her back.

Daxia had to bite the inside of her lip to keep from smiling at Khorall Larsen. The man looked for, and found, joy wherever he went. Never mind that political alliances had just been knocked askew... two young people had gotten married, and that was a fine reason for a toast! At least he caught himself, realizing that wishing the young couple many healthy children was, perhaps, not the best thing to say in this chamber. Your Dorianship? Daxia bit her lip a little harder.

At Dandy’s repositioning of Kay, and Kay’s resulting imitation of a strange bird squawking and her quiet comment, Daxia turned her head just enough to look at her Initiate. The slight upturning at the corners of her mouth and the glint in her eyes told the youngster that Verchovai Daxia might just ruffle her hair later for no other reason than Kay grumbled about it.

Her gaze returned quickly enough to the room as the Korie Heir returned with Father’s Judge and Father’s Knight... but apparently not Father’s Priestess. Interesting. All those years standing in Khorall Linnell’s court — with Kassia standing behind her rapping her on the head for her inattention and any reactions to the proceedings — finally paid off in Darksteel when Priestess Anastasia called the Khorall Korie a young whippersnapper. Daxia managed to refrain from any reaction save a fairly normal blinking of her eyes.

It would appear Bekkah might have an ally within these walls... or at least one who could guide her through the field riddled with pika burrows and hunters’ traps.

Watching the Judge watch his great book was educational. Daxia had met an Eye, of course... Lord Random, the keeper of Names. She’d never met a Judge... well, she’d seen the one who’d come to the Dawnview court, true. But she’d never seen one do what Judges do — divine information from Hastur. It wasn’t until the elderly Priestess pointed out that his pages were still blank that Daxia knew such divinations ought to be considerably more swift. The Judge couldn’t get his Lord to answer him? How strange and...

Dominic Dominie, you little scamp! You cast a Block Divination spell, didn’t you? Of course you did... because you knew Father would do exactly what he’s doing now. And the answer to the question varies depending on how it’s asked. I certainly hope your Lady whispers to you about the apoplexy you and Kadri have caused Father.

Khorall Korie’s question was interesting... as was Kadri’s answer.

Would her brothers have had time to return home to speak to their father after chasing Dominie from here to there and there to here? Perhaps not. The minstrels, on the other hand, may well have arrived on the Plains of Kaa with their songs — not so highly exaggerated as one might expect — of the diminutive yet dashing young Korie Lord claiming his elegant and exotic Terilanquel bride... and perhaps they had not.

Though, as Kadri rightly pointed out, it was no longer her father’s concern.

No. It was a concern of the entirety of the Amber Clans now, and this almost certainly would have been what the Khorall alluded to. He was not a foolish man, for he could not have played his game of Horses and Castles with Linnell Allaine for these many handful of years. He likely understood what Kadri did not...

The Clans of Amber were politically aligned with Dawnview.

The daughter of one of those Clans just aligned herself — and by extension, her family... at least until and unless her father disowned her — with Talantal.

So unless and until Kadri’s father — or brothers, or perhaps simply the Amber delegation itself... Daxia wasn’t entirely certain how these things worked in Amber — showed up to deny they knew any such person as Kadri djinn Khayriyah al’Terilanquel, the Amber Clans were technically split in their alliances.

It was no wonder she could sense the Patterns and Paths so well here and now... this was the event that would cause Kisa’s Doublebluff tiles to start tumbling into a new Pattern.

Midsummers Council.

Once again, she and her little group of misfits were at the center of the storm.

My Lady, I’m beginning to think Your purpose is to plunk me down in the center of this world’s most volatile situation at any given moment. Well, if that's Your plan, I thank You once again for sending along His Magnificence to accompany me. It's very kind of You both. If I’m to balance the Snowqueen Who Is Not a Snowqueen in this game of Doublebluff she plays on the board of the world, I’m going to need all the help I can get. Did I mention that I’m grateful?

Daxia’s gaze wandered over the room, briefly stopping on each of her companions... and she took a moment to think of Darian and Jankin, as well. They were likely far safer outside Dominie’s little village than any of them were here.

It’s probably just dumb luck that I fell in with this particular group of companions — or Kay’s luck rippling forward an Age so I’d be with them and in a position to save her when I did. I know... she might not agree with that. I’m still grateful.

The Starrider then simply watched... listened... and felt the shifting Patterns.

Bekkah

Word may not have reached the elder priestess of Bekkah's whereabouts, but one thing she could clearly tell, Bekkah was no longer an initiate. Her response was directed to the ranking Atteran Priestess not to the man demanding it.

"Lady Anastasia, it is good to see you again. It has been far too long." she said as she curtsied low to the woman. She hoped when it was her turn to speak Romana would follow her example.

"My tale is a simple one, perhaps directed by fate, perhaps by chance. As you know, I had been in the outlying areas for years when I entered a town and discovered my sister. It had been so many years since we'd last seen each other so remaining in her company for a while seemed appropriate. Along the way, we encountered this girl, who has decided to join our ranks. I have taken her on as an initiate. Should you get a chance to speak with her, you will find her dedicated to our Lady and quite a learner."

"Introduce yourself to the Lady Anastasia, Romana." she said stepping back a small step to place Romana slightly ahead of her.

Cesare

He had already hesitated before following Mikal's example.. an arttitude befitting any low commoner in such company, a role he had adopted on previous occasions.

With his eyes still downward, except for a quick glance at his questioner.. and then a glance at Kadri as if looking for permission, he answers, maybe feared of further delay.

"Cesare, manservant.. me Lud."

It is a mumble but clear enough.

Romana

The white haired lass too a step forward, her head ducking, bowed politely, and yet if one dared to look beneath the fall of her long bangs they might see something in Romana's blue eyes, whatever it was ... it was not subservient.

Her first words addressed the Khorall of the Grand Duchy of Talantel. They were spoken soft, quiet, flat and devoid of any accent.

"Thank you for making me feel at home."

Then white skirts were gathered up, the easterner taking two bright steps until she stood before the elderly Atteran. She spun around, once, looking to her Priestess with a smile,

"Bekkah says ...."

And then completed the turn to end facing Lady Anastasia. Even before her skirts had a chance to stop their playful flare she bounced in a curtsey that was both proper and enthusiastic.

"Lady'al'Bekkah says introduces ...

"Lady'al'atterahshkah'khal'tsarishnish .... uhm ... ah ... uhm .. ana ... any ...anatata ..."

Romana wrinkled her nose and smiled,

"Lady'al'atterahshkah'khal'tsarishnish'Anastasia please be you to meet Rhomanishkah'al'lhahrhonsha'al'khylyrishkatsarinish'hkal'khal'malnky'Attera."

The ranking Talantal Priestess simply gave the young inistiate a very patient look.

"That's very pretty. Do you have anything shorter, youngling?"

"Oh."

Romana thought very hard.

"Names important, to say who is and is nots; names so very very short here. Silly-silly.

"Romana ... Romana of the ... what is word ... lordy ... noble ... imperialiscious ... nonono, not rights, close, not rights ...

"Romana of ... royal ... family Lhahrhonsha, of City of a Thousand Towers, Kh'Lhy'ra, only daughters of line and now ... and now ...

"... now littlest of all of the Kind One's touch. Never been littlest anything before. So much fun, makes every day new agains.

"Old Lady teach? Promise to learns! Like ... like ...like being nice."

"Old Lady call Romanas Romanas! Well. Romanas. Only once. Promise never need to call twice."

Blue eyes then returned to Doran Korie, a hand rising to point him out to Lady Anastasia

"He can call me Princess."

Cesare

This time he really has to work hard to keep his expression neutral, glad that his bowed head would have hidden the twitch of his lips at Romana's last comment.

Daxia

Mikal's, Cesare's, Bekkah's introductions were nothing out of the ordinary. Each said just the right thing, with the right tone; it was what Daxia would have expected from them... although Bekkah's introduction of herself to Lady Anastasia rather than Khorall Korie did make her younger sister inwardly smile.

However, when Romana turned to the Khorall, Daxia held herself perfectly still. Perhaps it was something in Romana's posture, perhaps it was simply that she'd come to know the Eastern lass and her stories well enough in the past handful plus one months since that fateful day on the Brementown road... but whatever it was, instinct told her to watch those at the head table. Watch the Kories, watch the Montagues.

So Daxia saw whatever their reactions were to the very polite, very proper, very clearly spoken Colonial words Romana gave the Khorall of the greatest keep and most powerful Noble family on the Tarn.

Oh, yes... the Dayalan held herself still — as if Verchovai Kassia stood behind her, ready to rap her on the back of the head — while Romana so politely gave the most powerful man this side of Trundle on the Hill the worst insult Daxia could imagine Romana giving to anyone.

Thank you for making me feel at home.

Not that he didn't deserve it, of course, after insulting and threatening both Bekkah and Romana. But Daxia couldn't allow the thought to do more than drift across her consciousness for a moment, before it needed to be tucked away again. Observation... that was her role here and now. Thinking, analyzing, feeling... all that could come later.

As Romana proceeded to introduce herself to Lady Anastasia, Daxia's gaze moved smoothly between the Atterans and those at the head table... so she just happened to be looking at Dorian Korie when Romana declared that he — the most powerful man on all the Tarn — would be allowed to call her Princess.

That's something that definitely would have made Dazi laugh...

...if they weren't standing in a nest of vipers, ringed by merebeasts.

Kadri:

By Krysta's cold embrace, which I am about to experience ...

Romana has nerve. If I am going to die here, at least I got to see that ...

"Lady mine, are you QUITE sure that Romana isn't one of yours? If she isn't, she should be. Perhaps you can work out a loan arrangement with the benevolent Atterra?"

But right now, there was nothing she could add. Hopefully, the explosion would be ... limited ...

Squire Dean

Realizing the danger to the Lady Bekkah's acolyte, blood roaring in his ears, Dean steps forward in front of Romana, and stares at the Khoral, mouth open. "My...my...name is..." Remembering where he is, he sweeps his scabbard aside and bows as he has been taught. Taking in the faces, hoping to draw their eyes from Romana, Dean says "My name is Dean and I am protector of Lady B..." His eyes pop open remembering the harsh lessons of Lady Bekkah. He shakes his head and starts again. "I am Squire..." Wait, has he said this already? Suddenly he can't see the faces of the people around him...the edges of his vision grow dark. Gods, am I passing out? Never! He makes a attempt to save the moment, takes a deep breath, and stammers out lamely, "I have a sword and I'm with them." Blushing deeply, he backs up slowly, gently pushing Romana backwards into the arms of his companions.

Daxia

No, no, no. No. She absolutely would not laugh... nor would she chuckle, snicker or even smile.

Okay, she had to smile... at least a little bit.

As Daxia continued to scan the room, her eyes rested for just a fraction of a heartbeat longer on Tieg Larsen, and she idly wondered if Dean was somehow related to the Noble Family Larsen just as she herself was somehow related to the Noble Family Allaine...

Because no matter what trials or tribulations they faced, no matter what sort of predicament or crisis they fell into, Dean managed to say or do something that made her smile... after the demons and hunting beasts and all manner of foul Easterners had been slain, of course. You just had to like the lad!

And it was terribly clever of him to point out that he did, indeed, have a sword so that those assembled would be forced to note his affiliation with Lord Rames and, obviously, the sword work styles of the Knights of Rames. It achieved the goal of drawing attention away from Romana while, at the same time, emphasizing his affiliation with the Imperial Church.

Daxia wondered, though, how many of them — well, besides Kisa — would go beyond the obvious to thinking he might have learned a few things from a Jvrillian... and a Dayalan.

Da, maybe he didn’t mean to be so clever, but his instincts were good. Given enough time... why, one day he’d be doing clever things quite intentionally!

... And for Kadri the temptation to laugh and break composure was almost to great - kept in check largely by where she was.

But only just.

The Heartwood
Talantal, the Grand Duchy of Talantal
Late Afternoon, Attaday, the twenty-seventh day of Dragon

Bekkah, Daxia, Mikal, Dean, Cesare, Kadri ... Kay and Romana

The storm rises; like thunderheads driving across the plains. One can imagine the scent of ozone in the air from the lightning as one waited for the following thunderclap.

"How ....

"How dare ...."

Upon the high table the Talantal Khorall's hands slow clenched into angry red fists.

"HOW DARE YOU!"

These were not words of a man angry but a Lord furious. They were, however met by a calmer reply, from the Lady Anastasia.

"Are you accusing one of mine of lying?"

True, the Priestess' words shut the Khorall up.

But only for a heartbeat.

"You!"

Dorian Korie pointed to the Captain of his Knights and commanded.

"Get rid of them, BOTH of them. Hawthorne, dispense MY bloody ..."

The stormclouds had gathered. Here there was the Khorall Korie, all composure lost, raw like a bone poking through the skin, his attention focussed upon a single lady, a supposed princess. If Fury had an incarnation, it would be him.

His heir observed from his father's shoulder, like a true spectator; both watching an elder at work and realizing that not only has a problem been taken from his hands, his slowness of but a few moments ago has now been completely forgotten.

His wife, however, was not swayed by this violent distraction. Her attention remained elsewhere, eyes narrowed, like a merebeast who had found another poaching her territory.

Hadrian Montague had simply crossed his arms, his look one of annoyance, fingers wrapping a droll rhythm across his sleeves, his bane focused not on any of the newcomers but upon the Lord Korie. His companion, the Warlord, however, was too focused upon the center of the Korie's wrath. His expression was one more of contemplation, as he contemplated the rareness of the temptation placed before him, the conundrum of doing things far worse than tossing one from a tower and yet somehow avoiding a Goddess' curse.

" ... that explains ...."

Rikart Kierkegaard whispered two words, before his Father's hand upon his shoulder silenced him. The elder Kierkegaard looked between the Korie and the Allaine, to see which way his loyalties would be summoned.

Kisa Allaine was silent, however Captain Koromov once again had a fistful of initiate's collar, holding Kay back from a sudden cross court rush. As she was yanked back the youngest Dayalan's expression changed from protectiveness, to hot anger at being stopped and thn to a very very shocked and confused look of just what the blazes was I just doing.

The Larsen lord and lady, they were both as quiet as church mice .... watching, waiting.

The lightning was poised to strike ...

Except, of course, no one expected the Squire from Talesan's Village.

Usually silence follows such a bold interruption.

Not this time.

"A sword ... I'll show you a sword ..."

"Jakal, SHUT UP!"

"Why I think he likes her ..."

"What in all of Krysta's Bloody Hells is this ... who let him into my Court? Captain, is this is one of yours?"

"Not her her ... the older her ..."

"From the mouth of babes ..."

" ...oh this Court is going to be fun ..."

"Well, at least one of you understands the difference between protecting and bullying ..."

"Priestess, remember your place!"

" ... oh to take that innocence ...."

"Wife, remember your place!"

"Curiouser and curiouser."

"Well he at least has more sense than their other Squire did."

"Honey, look, that's Dean, you know, Kevin's lad?"

"Oh my, yes it is! Good show boy! Sir Kevin would be powerful proud!"

"Good boy?"

That last was an unbelieving Dorian Korie; his attention snapping back to the Larsens.

"You. Be quiet."

He turned back to his Knight.

"You, explain! Now!"

The Knight once again found his face in his hands,

"This ... this is what happens when you surround a Squire with too many Atterrans. Four too many Atterans, and yes I'm including young Marcy ... or Darcy, whichever one you are. Krysta's dancing bells, you took in twins just to confuse me, didn't you Ana."

"Not to just confuse you, David."

"ENOUGH!"

Again, the Korie's fist slammed down upon the table.

"You!"

This seemed to be his favorite manner of addressing people. This time it fell hard upon the only woman on his side of the high table.

"You! Take your brand new sister-in-law and her bothersome companions and show her to their rooms. She's Dominic's wife so crowd them all into his suite. You can do that, can't you? Something actually useful besides beating my serving staff?"

Standing, Dama Talia Montague-Korie clapped her hands,

"Children, follow me."

Her words sounded significantly more like an order than a request. She walked towards one of the tall arcades, pausing beneath a pointed arch to ensure her words were being followed.

"All this noise, it makes it impossible to read. I shall walk a bit before retiring to my room; Mother said the views from your towers were quite spectacular come sunset. Mayhaps we shall meet again at dinner."

With a polite smile the Allaine closed her book and rose. Indicating for her guard to follow. In response orianKorie dismissed her with a wave and a few callous words.

"You. I thought you would be this midsummer's biggest headache."

The Allaine considered his words and quietly replied.

"Oh, but Court hasn't even begun yet, my dear Khorall Korie."

The Kierkegaards, of course, politely followed in Kisa Allaine's wake.


edit <fixed an important typo>

Mikal

As the Khorall explodes in anger and his initial reaction, including beginning to order his Knight Captain to 'dispose' of them, pours forth, Mikal's hand drops to his sword hilt and he takes a short step, placing himself in a better position to intercede between his companions and the potential threat. His eyes narrow and he watches closely for the trigger to act, muscles in his hand twitching on his sword's hilt.

Fortunately it doesn't come. Others interject, and eventually the Khorall effectively throws his hands up and orders them to be shown to Dominic's rooms.

Personally, given his own choice, he'd walk outside, mount Talia...... **Not that Talia.** He thinks, although imagining the scandal that would cause he cannot help a smile from appearing on his lips....... Mount his horse, and ride as far away as he could get.

But he is the Lady Kadri's bodyguard, and that means he goes where she goes. So he waits, hand still resting on his sword's pommel, although not gripping it, for Kadri to indicate where she is going to go.

Kadri:

Her attention whips back and forth as the conversation moves around like an animal evading the hunt. For a moment, she was sure that there would be blood. She was sure that things had pushed past the razor edge of danger and had fallen off the cliff. Then, a series of interjections from others in the hall deescalate the situation, bringing it back from the precipice – but it had been close enough to see the rocks below. And the rocks were very, very sharp, and the waves high and pounding.

And then her face - for a brief flash - tenses up; Especially around the corners of the mouth and eyes. It took all of the control she had NOT to simply laugh at that point.

Lady mine, come now, come. Too much. Really now this is too much. I'm not going to laugh right now. Later. I like head to remain attached to body, and body to remain with a heartbeat. Easier to amuse you that way"

This was a pit of Vipers, but she decided then and there that there were two snakes that she was inclined to like; the Larsens. They at least seemed … grounded. Real. Perhaps the Allaine. Her eyes then momentarily locked on the Kierkegards. The elder ... and yes, his son. She had seen that face before, one night - long ago. Momentarily, her mind flitted back. That was when, really, the avalanche had started to fall.



She returns her full attention to the Khorral, as her thoughts return to the present with his words to Talia.

Yet again, she essays a perfect curtsey, deep as is appropriate to his station, head down so her face is not, for the moment, seen.

“Indeed, father, your graciousness is everything that I have been led to expect, and more. I have much to learn. May the remainder of your evening be free of untoward incident.”

Is said with a ‘humble’ tone.

Every word was true, and the statement perhaps could be taken as a compliment. It wasn’t one, really. But it could be taken that way.

She essays a brief bow, arms crossed, to the others in the hall - momentarily meeting RIkart's eyes, if they were there to be met - before turning to Talia.

“I follow, Sister. Lead the way.”

”Children indeed. I will wager I have experienced more raw life than has she, as have they.”

None of the internal dialogue, however, showed in her perfectly placid face. She motioned, briefly, to the 'retinue' Then moved to follow where Talia went.

Bekkah will go with Dazi unless Dazi indicates that she wants to be alone with Kisa.

Cesare

He knows that mixing with people who feel they have a given right to make decisions that suit them without thought of any consequence for others, near or far, is a very dangerous thing.

He dutifully (and readily) follows Kadri from the room, taking up a position by the now closed door once they are all inside. He wants some warning if anyone approaches.

[OOC: I believe we all still possess enough sanity to know that attempting to verbally spar with the Korie is tantamount to suicide. <looks around> Yep, even I'm not that crazy... and I'm pretty far gone.]

Daxia

Her gaze lingered on the Kierkegaard delegation for a moment when the Heir whispered his two words. Ah, so it would seem Rikart knew of the arrangement. Daxia wondered if he understood why Kadri did what she did. Perhaps he did... those who lived beyond Cragside, in the Frontier Keeps from Highgaard to Dawnview, believed in marrying for love as much as — perhaps even more so than — political alliance. While a further political tie to Amber was delayed because the bride found herself in love with someone else — well, that would be the story being spread by the minstrels after Dominic’s extravagant performance in Bordertown — it would be difficult to deny the awkwardness, to say nothing of the unhappiness, of marrying a woman who was in love with someone else. Of course, that wasn’t the only reason Amber was interested in the match... but that was, to Daxia’s mind, a distasteful topic.

The scuffle behind her, once again involving the Koromov extremely distant cousins, caused the Starrider to glance back at her Initiate in time to see her what the blazes what I just doing? expression. Ah, at that, Daxia wanted so very much to laugh! She couldn’t... not here, not now. Later though...

In the midst of the cacophony, after one of the remarks, Daxia blinked... darted her eyes around the room again, and then narrowed them slightly at the next sound from that same source.

My Lady, I thank you. Having a follower of Your Granddaughter with us is quite enough. I doubt we poor humans could survive the presence of the Lady Herself in this hall for very long.

She followed Kisa, of course, as was expected in her role. But when Dama Kisa paused to reply to the Khorall, Dazi took the opportunity to whisper to Bekkah.

“Dearest Bekkah, allow me some time to speak with Dama Kisa and my Temple Sisters. I would like very much to introduce everyone to Dama Kisa, and Verchovai Dandy has yet to meet those who joined our group after we left Cragside. I don’t believe we’ll be overly long.”

Conversation in the halls, the little there was of it, was of an inconsequential nature... perhaps a question for Dandy regarding where the Horde conducted their daily practice and whether she and her Initiate might be welcome to join them... greetings made to the Kierkegaard Khorall and Heir, as they were good neighbors welcome in Dawnview, as well as sincere wishes for a pleasant evening when Kisa mentioned she’d like to be alone. For their part, they graciously took the hint to be elsewhere.

It wasn’t until the Allaine Heir and the three Dayalans arrived on the ramparts that Daxia relaxed the tiniest bit... enough to sigh with some relief.

“I’ve already written to Dama Kisa about the matter, but I’ve come it would seem to introduce you to another relative, Dandy.” Dazi tousled Kay’s hair before she could escape, grinning at the youngling when she began her usual grumbling about the practice. “This is Ekaterina Koromov, the only surviving Dayalan of the Battle of Silk Creek Bridge, a long story best told over tankards of ale. Kay... your cousin Verchovai and Captain and Dama Dandelion Alyssa kha’Madoka kha’Ayanna kha’Kame kha’Chikato khal’Homura Akemi Koromov.” She nodded to Kay. “Ja, same Akemi, I think.”

Then she shrugged. “Other than telling you that your cousin is considerably feistier than your younger sister,” she said to Dandy, “I’m somewhat at a loss for words. And shut up, both of you. I’m tired of hearing about how much I talk.”

She then turn to stand shoulder to shoulder with Kisa, saying nothing... only smiling. After a moment, she rested her hand between them, palm up, on the stonework. Daxia turned from the view of the Highside Tarn to look at Kisa.

One heartbeat... and then a second... and finally a third before Daxia spoke softly.

“Khorall Linnell is correct, as usual. The view here is spectacular.”

The Heartwood
Talantal, the Grand Duchy of Talantal
Late Afternoon, Attaday, the twenty-seventh day of Dragon

Daxia ... Kay, Kisa Allaine and Dandelion Koromov

"I wish I could, but I couldn't."

It was an odd thing for an Allaine to say, as she chose the same crenelated tooth to stand next to, tucking herself up next to the middle Dayalan. Two redheads, close enough that the breeze tangled their hair as the setting sun painted the sky in so many shades of crimson. The Allaine's hand was placed just above the stonework, palm downwards.

"The courier was leaving. I had to look far far ahead. And I had to be careful. Just like the setting up of double bluff tiles determines their pattern when they fall, simply looking at something changes it - so I had to be careful, to guess at a message that would not set matters tumbling out of control, that might make the next one useless.

"It's the best I could do.

"So far far away"

It had been a very quiet walk, from the court to the relative privacy of the tall ramparts. Greetings and partings were exchanged between allied nobles; matters were necessarily strained. All three of the Dayalans would have feel under Kristof's measuring gaze; perhaps because he would have had to pass through both Cragside and Bordertown to arrive at this place. He would, however, be polite and respectful - but it was more a matter of his respect for his most powerful ally's decisions that bought the three swordswomen that manner of benevolence.

As for the question to the Captain concerning hers, it was answered in silence. Only a sharp, serious look and a finger lain atop to her lips was returned.

"And it was one that would only be understood by someone who plays other games than doublebluff with the stone tiles."

This was all quietly spoken. Not that everything on the rampart had been perfectly quiet. In fact there was a little kerfluffle.

"GAWK! Stop that! Use her, she's taller, got more hair and I'll even get you a box to stand on!"

After shaking out her head - making her hair even more tumbled than from just being tousled - the littlest Dayalan circled the tallest, eyes narrowed suspiciously as she looked up to her Koromov ... cousin, niece, something or other many times removed.

Dandelion, however, gave her suspicious to Daxia, for the moment ignoring her being inspected with a quiet and very professional calm. Until, suddenly, her professional demeanor was shattered.

"Hey! Whelp! you poked me!"

"That's right, I'm down here big, tall, spindly - don't you eat - and are you sure you are a Koromov, we ain't never had an empty minded blonde in our family, no when and no how. Let those two go all moon calf eyed - what is it with Allaines and their guards anyways. But I'm down here. What am I supposed to do with you, I'm not suppose to have family, I'm gonna have a unicorn someday - just like Morning Star except he won't carry his nose so high he'll risk drowning in a summer rain - and if you've messed that up I'm going to give you a swift kick in the shin. Wait. Let's get that over with right noooooaaaawwwk!"

Dandelion had the longer reach and all it took was a straight arm on a shorter forehead to keep this one at bay.

"No fair!"

Dandelion simply smiled and kept Kay at a distance, turning to Daxia.

"Fine. This time you really did find a Koromov."

"Bloody right."

"Cor. What am I going do with you."

"Do with me? What am I going to do with you ... you .... you ... Dandy!"

"That's Captain Koromov to you, whelpling!"

"Didn't your Mother teach you to speak to your elders with more respect?"

"Did you even have a Mother or were you hatched?"

"Oh ... you just let me get in swingin' distance and I'll show you all about hatching, yes I will ..."

Finally, or perhaps just having waited the perfect amount of time, Kisa Allaine looked back over her shoulder.

"Quiet. I won't have my guards bickering in public. It's unseemly. It's unseemly because you are going to make me laugh, which would completely destroy the face I'm trying to put forth to the Kories and Montagues."

With a disgruntled grumble, Kay backed down. Captain Koromov simply crossed her arms, looking a touch amused.

"So Kay ... where are you from?"

The dark haired lass blinked, caught a bit off guard.

"I'ma Darkdowner, ma'am. But I suspect you wouldn't be knowing that; me family farm the deepest vale for the Kohnstantins, and being the youngest, and leastwise the most unmarriageable ..."

Dandelion interrupted,

"I can see why ..."

"Hush you. I ain't decided if'n I like you yet. But being the youngest I was sent to the keep to learn sword and shield and sear, not that I had much time for learnin' before they came down the Road East and I was taken in Lily-kin. Lily Allaine that is, not that I'd suspect you know of her excepting, well, as a great great something or other. Verchovai Tashka brought me in, her and Tracy-lynn and Kisa and Jazzy and her sister Jeminy ..."

That would get a raised hand, a silent command to stop.

"You knew Kisa Allaine?

"Yah."

Kay looked down. She scuffed her feet across the wooden planking.

"Only one younger than me.

"Sweet kid."

The Allaine heir was silent for a long set of heartbeats, until she finally nodded, just once.

"Thank you."

Kisa examined the youngest Koromov for a long set of heartbeats before turning to look directly at Daxia.

"No blondes. Thomas Montgomery was famous for his light hair.

"You know, that's exactly what I would do.

"If I looked ahead, and saw trouble, and I wanted to make sure a bloodline didn't vanish, I'd set a family up in the middle of nowhere, where no one would ever think of looking."

Patting Daxia's hand the heir pushed herself off the stone, dusting off her formal tunics.

"Isn't it time you introduced me to the rest of your companions?"

The Heartwood
Talantal, the Grand Duchy of Talantal
Late Afternoon, Attaday, the twenty-seventh day of Dragon

Bekkah ... and Lady Anastasia and Princess Romana

"Old Lady?"

Anastasia considered Romana's words as she ushered Bekkah and her ward from the council chambers. At Daxia's request she paused in the grand corridors, letting the Allaine contingent and the Kierkegaards continue until they were lost to the echoes.

"Well I must say, if you can get him to call you Princess, I can certainly live with being the Old Lady.

"And you have been traveling with Lady Bekkah all this time?"

"Yesyesyes!"

Was Romana's quick reply, which was rewarded by another question.

"Do you have a hat?"

"Yesyes ...." Romana's eyes narrowed a bit suspiciously, " ... yes?"

Instead, the Atteran High Priestess turned her attention to Bekkah.

"I take it you have taught her the basics of first aid, the Lady's touch for healing those who are beyond bandages and stricthing, and taught her how to summon Our Lady's power for when things go even beyond that ...

"But on the road, I suspect she is lacking in the practicalities of our mission, of our work. This I believe is very important for the newest of Her Children.

"I am of two minds, concerning your apprentice, Lady Bekkah.

"The politically proper side of me thinks that having her work in the Keep Hospice has its merits. It is quiet work, it keeps her close, probably out of trouble, and there are many she can learn from. On the other hand it places her right under the nose of the Court, and I cannot guarantee she will not feel the sting of who she is - even from her sisters.

"But its where she can be kept under our watch too.

"On the other hand, we can send her down to the first wing, or to the hovels that rest against the outer walls. This would get her out of sight, and thus out of the minds of our Lords and the Montagues. But we do not have a hospice there; she would be on her own. She will have Our Lady's protection, so she will not be harmed ... but that does not mean she will be liked.

"The work is hard and she would only have the thanks of our most poor.

"On the other hand, it will be good work, hard word, test her resolve and commitment.

"And between me and you ...

"The Kories make sure the upper rings are well tended; they pay their tithes and taxes, yes?

"The folks on the outer rings, they are the ones who need our help the most.

"She is your Initiate ...

"I can have her set up where you wish."

The elder Atteran smiled then to Romana.

"The hat is for respect. To show your respect for them - acknowledging who you are without forcing it upon them. You'll know when its time to take the hat off.

The Heartwood
Talantal, the Grand Duchy of Talantal
Late Afternoon, Attaday, the twenty-seventh day of Dragon

Mikal, Dean, Cesare, Kadri ... and for a little while, Talia Montague-Korie

Their escort paused, making sure thatKadri Korie was the last to enter her husband's rooms,

"I don't know what you are scheming are you little whippet ..."

Dame Talia leaned close to Kadri; and for a lass who had faced eastern Avatars and the collapse of silk creek bridge, the look she was given was perhaps the most sure and most truly evil she ha ever had leveled upon her.

"But it is my son will be the one ruling the Mainland, once the Khorall and his son have passed away.

"Get in my way and you'll b making Dominic Domine a widower ad your child food for the worms."

She then straightened, dusted off her hands and smiled oh so innocently and spoke oh so pleasantly.

"Have a nice day."

Once the sheets were drawn away and folded, the sitting room presented itself. It was a simple space, really, its fineness made up from material rather than decoration - warm polished wood floors, finely cut and planed walls which were broken by heavy timber columns supporting the big simple trusses that in turn supported the floor above.

There was a large stone hearth - open on two sides; the side opposite the bedroom and through the opening could be seen a covered canopy bed, many armoires and a few wooden trunks. There was a tall and narrow window in the far wall, set in diamond paned glass both clear and stained. Through that window can be seen a tower twin to this one, with its own matching window.

The room is semi-circular; obviously taking up half the tower, leaving a quarter for the bedroom and a quarter for the study - perhaps a little less than a quarter, the stairs and entrance to the suite taking up a modicum of space.

A large and comfortable couch sits in front of the fire, big enough for almost four people but with a well worn dent in the cushions of one arm. It is flanked by two high cushioned chairs that seem almost unused. behind the couch is a round wooden table with straight backed wooden chairs four two; it was not as if Dominic appeared to have expected many guests.

A peek in the study would have discovered a small room lined with bookshelves that have a comfortable but not crammed collection of books; that and a comfortable chair and small end table. This room also has a window, one that looks out towards the Black Mountains upon the far off horizon.

Kadri

Her face remained placid all the way to the room, her pace even and measured, almost gliding. Her face remained as placid even in the face of Talia's ... Interesting comments.

This ... woman ... honestly thinks that I would want aught to do with ruling the mainland? With this? And that had I a child I would subject them to this? Tcha, lady mine, she knows less of me than a newborn babe."

Once they were in the room, and the door shut - and more importantly were alone - she immediately looked slightly pale. She went straight to the couch and proceeded to collapse on it. She looked as if she were shaking, uncontrollably. But after a moment … was that really shaking or … was that ... a small giggle? A chuckle perhaps? It grew, until it was slightly hysterical laughter – which continued for a time. Then, she finally spoke.

"These. People. Are. Crazy!!!!!"

OOC: I split the end of my other post, edited a bit, and put it here where it can be responded to as my first post in response to wolfs.)

Cesare

He knows that mixing with people who feel they have a given right to make decisions that suit them without thought of any consequence for others, near or far, is a very dangerous thing.

He dutifully (and readily) follows Kadri from the room, taking up a position by the now closed door once they are all inside. He wants some warning if anyone approaches.

He lifts his head, looking at Mikal.

"So, what's your assessment of the threat now you've seen the opposition?"

Mikal

He smiles slightly at Kadri's outburst, then shrugs in answer to Cesare.

"Oh, nothing much has changed from my initial feelings. We've walked into a lair of Softpads. If they wish to kill us, openly, we have no chance other than to take some with us, or if we're lucky to get early warning and figure out a way to flee first. The best I can do is to protect us from assassins in the shadows. Fortunately, that is the weapon of choice among these kinds. That and poison. If they choose to dose our wine with Corallis......", he pauses and glances at the group. "I don't suppose any of you have a means of detecting poison in food or drink?"

He turns back to Cesare. "Some at that table I could take, others I'd not have as much chance against. But these kind almost never do their own dirty work. As you saw from the Khorall. They use their guards and knights. Those, or at least some of those, I can handle. As long as it's not too many at once."

Bekkah

"You know well my preference on such things." Bekkah had never been the kind to favor the rich and privileged. She loved the poor and always wonderful when she helped those that had so little. She hoped that Romanas would feel the same way. In her mind there was no better way to feel the love of the Lady than to help the poor.

"They will accept you quickly when they see where you heart is. You can do good without having to play politics with the high and mighty."

The Heartwood
Talantal, the Grand Duchy of Talantal
Late Afternoon, Attaday, the twenty-seventh day of Dragon

Bekkah ... and Lady Anastasia and Romana

"Never dones before ..."

Romana considers that for a long time, brows furrowing before a smile crosses her face.

"Which is always good. Like raspingberries. Never had them before yesterdays too!"

The eldest of the Atterans simply folded her hands behind her and nodded, sharp and sure, as if everything had just been settled.

"Excellent.

"I would recommend getting a good night's sleep. I'll set the twins to wake you two bells before dawn.

"Of course there is room for you in the cathedral's cloister, if you wish. Take your leave of this keep and its the tall building with bronze doors just across the court; the cloisters can be reached through the arcade to the right if you don't want to wade through a cacophony of Brothers, Squires and Knights.

"Your companions are in the young troublemaker's rooms ... down this hall, take your first two right hand turns and then take the tower stairs all the way to the top.

"Fair evening my children. Oh ... and if Sister Jasmine tries to give you other work ... tell her to come find me."

With that the Priestess headed back the way they came; towards the great hall, bound for her cathedral and hospice and cloister.

"... Bekkahs ...."

Romana queries quietly.

"Did Old Lady say before dawns?"

her Initiate would follow Bekkah, upon whichever destination she chose from here.

The Heartwood
Talantal, the Grand Duchy of Talantal
Late Afternoon, Attaday, the twenty-seventh day of Dragon

Mikal, Dean, Cesare, Kadri ... and sundry servants

"Of course they are crazy, mi'lady. They have the responsibility to properly govern the lands from Highside Heather to the Blackwater River, a task so trying and formidable no sane person would even attempt."

With that entrance three strangers - two women and a man, would trundle into the suite as if it were the most natural thing in the world. The one who spoke, a bestraggled looking and slightly underfed lass with tousled brown hair, carried a heavy silver tray upon which were two carafes, two covered bowls of silver and a basket covered in gingham that carried with it the scent of warm bread.

The other two - a lanky lad who looked far worse for wear and a blonde girl who kept her head ducked, looking to the ground, face unseen, were barely visible behind the goods they carried; mostly bedding and linens of one sort or another.

"Wine. Water, roast beast, apples and cheese."

The bestraggled one pointed to each covered item in turn.

"And you can feel safe for your food. If anyone was to be poisoned, the blame would fall first on us and the cooks and we do not wish to be dancing with Lady Krysta any time soon. Your bigger worry is two fold."

She then turned, setting her platter on the table and then with a handwave directed her two charges to distribute the blankets and sheets about suite, making sure there was some allotted for each of their guests ... and assigned to either a big chair or sofa.

"First, if'n you come from east of the Silk Creek, remember that all members of the Imperial Court are represented here. Second, the Kories and the In-laws fully well understand and practice well the divisions of Law when it comes to Nobles and everyone else. While our new Ladyship has the same protection and rights, us Servants do not.'

She then paused, as if forgetting something.

"Oh, apologies, My Lady.

"I am Kathi, the buck there is James and the little one is Mouse. We are Lord Dominic Domine's retainers. We welcome you to the Keep and if you have any need of anything just call for me."

She'd pause then, looking respectfully down, very respectfully.

"We are glad you are here. When our Lord is away the Master has us cleaning the floors. Of the kitchens and below grounds. We can also return to the servants quarter's tonight too."

Kadri:

She pauses a long while and listens to the servants speak.

"Kathi. James. Mouse."

She looks at each in turn, as if memorizing both their faces and their names. She pauses in thought, and then, perhaps impulsively, decided to trust them. Her resulting smile was quite genuine - she liked people like this. People like this were who she had lived with since running. This was where she had much more comfort than with the high and mighty.

"The law and custom may divide us into 'lady' and 'servant' Kathi. But I have lived both lives. And there is one thing I can tell you with no doubt at all."

She pauses, and makes sure to emphasize the use of Kathi's name, and looking into her eyes, or as directly at her as she can.

"I make no such division. I recognize no such division. Act as you need to in order to fulfil expectations outside of this room and stay safe, but in here, I am no better than you. I'm just a woman. I am merely Kadri. And I am most definitely not one of them, out there, whatever my name might say. You can look into my eyes, look up. I don't need, or want, to see the top and back of your head."

She motions at the tray.

"Kathi - you look like you might be hungry. Would you three perhaps like to share food and drink with us and talk of matters at the court from the view of those who are ignored? Relax for a moment - if you do not wish it, understand that it is only an invitation - not an order - and I would not keep you if you need go."

Verchovai Daxia Yurisdotter

She noted Khorall Kristof’s gaze as they walked, but thought little of it. She and her group had left an interesting trail as they’d traveled down the Highland Path from Cragside to Talantal. There was nothing that could be done to change the events that had occurred, nor anything that could be done to mitigate any unforeseen consequences that might have accrued to the Kierkegaards. And Dazi had grave doubts about the Khorall’s potential interest in their stories anyway. Rikart was more of a contemporary; he might find one or two of the tales of interest. But he was still a Noble... she, most assuredly, was not.

Talantal was the one place on the mainland where it was vitally important to keep that in mind.

Perhaps, though, the Khorall would be interested in knowing what had become of his eldest son, Lord Danton. That was not a tale Daxia was going to tell him, however. She needed to find a way to tell the tale to Kisa, and then let Kisa tell the tale as and to whom she deemed proper. It was certainly not a tale that would be told today, that much was certain.

At the elder Koromov’s silent answer to her innocent question, Daxia merely raised an eyebrow. Dandy would share the information about her troop when the time and place were more appropriate... if she felt it ought to be shared at all.

Upon the ramparts, the red haired Dayalan simply shrugged. She’d had quite a lot of experience at watching Kisa do the things she did before she’d left the Vale, and Kisa’s methods really did make sense. But understanding — even in the moment of receiving another of her messages — just why Kisa sent a particular tile without any clue to its purpose or meaning was still frustrating. And the frustration was borne so heavily out of the experiences that followed the receipt of a new tile. After the Lone Pine Inn, Daxia had begun to believe the arrival of a new tile mean that she and her band of misfits — maybe, maybe Barris would grant they were no longer a bunch of fishwives — were going to have an unpleasant and harrowing adventure.

Of course, that didn’t bode well for the group, as Kisa had handed her yet another tile when their group had entered the Khorall Korie’s Great Hall.

No. No, it didn’t bode well for them at all.

“I know,” she admitted. “And I even understand your reasoning. But since they are so vague, a simple note saying I’m thinking of you would be as useful.” Her words were simple and matter of fact, with no echoes of complaint or recrimination; neither was appropriate or necessary. She’d chided Kisa but once in their years of friendship, on the very night her mother contrived to have it begin.

Daxia looked out across the landscape, and smiled. “I do appreciate them for other reasons, of course... both in the moments prior to being tossed into the middle of a blizzard and in the recovery from the storm.” She paused, looking sidelong at Kisa. “And with another tile in my pouch, I can’t help but feel we have been thrown again into the deepest bank of snow beyond the Temple walls... even at Midsummer.”

She had simply ignored the Captain’s suspicious looks.

The Koromov Kerfuffle caused the young Starrider to sigh, to closer her eyes for a moment, to shake her head.

“Technically, Captain, I didn’t find the last one one... that would have been the Shannon Squire and those traveling with him.” She opened her eyes and looked over her shoulder at Dandy. “Camelia found her feet, and her spine too, though. But I think she’s more your mother’s daughter than your father’s.” She shrugged. “Staying in Bordertown with Garrick will suit her. Will suit them both, I think.”

She simply listened to the remainder of the family reunion, her lips twitching at Kay’s accurate assessment of Morning Star. At Kisa’s intervention, at Kay’s mention of Tashka, Daxia remained silent though her eyes instinctively sought out the bit of sky known as the Dark Patch. She had known the Priestesses Tashka and Linette for such a short time that missing them as much as she did was irrational. She also didn’t care.

Nodding at Kisa’s comment about Thomas Montgomery, she filed away the questions she had about family connections. They could wait. Something else could not.

“Da. First, an official introduction to Ekaterina Koromov here,” she said with a smile for Kisa, before looking at Kay... and regarding both her and Dandy for a moment. “Hmm.” Dazi seemed to make up her mind about something, but merely said, “Kay... Dama Kisa Allaine, Heir of the Allaine Noble Family.”

Again looking from one Koromov to the other, Daxia smile slightly. “I suspect there is a collection of traits associated with the Imperial Family Koromov that one might categorize, for simplicity’s sake, as ‘feistiness’,” she said to Kisa. “At least these two are not likely to toss people from the roofs of buildings,” she added wryly.

“I would guess the rest of my company would be found in Lord Dominic’s quarters.” Her eyes twinkled as she said, “I’ve no doubt you know the location of the rapscallion’s rooms. It would be a pleasure to introduce you to my friends.”

Bekkah

She listened, committing the directions to memory. Romana's question put a smile on her face.

"She did indeed. We start our work early my dear. Oh and I would be careful about calling her 'the old lady', some may not take it well. I had heard much of her and she has rightfully earned the right to be called Lady Anastasia."

"We shall rejoin the others at some point, but I think it best if we do our best to be proper ladies so let us go to the cloister. We shall get what sleep we can, then we can begin to train you to help others in our Lady's name. I think it will make quite an impression on you."

"Come." she said heading off towards the cloister.

The Heartwood
Talantal, the Grand Duchy of Talantal
Late Afternoon, Attaday, the twenty-seventh day of Dragon

Daxia ... Kay, Kisa Allaine and Captain Koromov

"But I'm always thinking of you ..."

The heir's words come out a bit sudden, a bit shocked and very innocent; extremely simple, as if it were something obvious and known, like the fact the sun rises with each day. she; then close her eyes and let out a breath,

"I wish it were snowbanks on the jambles on Midsummers. This is very different than Dawnview CAstle... there the snowbank we were buried in was, in the end ours. Here, this is someone else's home, their court ... "

"Ja ... its like fighin' someone on a field that was someone else's choice."

Kay chimed in, down to earth and pragmatic. The Captain followed.

"The scamp's right."

"I am every now and then you know ..."

Though, at the introduction, that was when the littlest one was caught suddenly off guard, her eyes going wide, blinking several times, before looking down to the floor.

"Kisa? Aallaine? But she ... they, I mean, she was with Verchovai Jeminy and she ... but how ... I mean ... she weren't anything, I mean you're much fancier and prettier ... but then, most anyone would be compared to us, we had been on the run since Tor-an-Dal and all. I didn't mean .. oh I don't know... i wasn't trying to be disrespectful on purpose and ...."

The Allaine heir shook her head and smiled, raising a hand.

"Its fine. My mother, she was a student of history. That and she thought my name was just nice.

"Kisa is remembered, Lady Ekaterina. Every time someone calls for me. That's a good thing, isn't it?"

The youngest Koromov just wrinkled her nose.

"I ain't a lady. I'm just a ... scamp. That's right. A scamp. And all.

"But ja ... I guess that's true. I think ... she'd like to be remembered well. Nothin' fancy ... not like the minstrel's sing, but just, everyday like."

Shrugging her shoulders a bit, the young namesake smiled.

"Da ... every day."

Her attention then returned to daxia, letting out a long, long and exasperated breath - a very familiar manner of exasperation.

"Dominic's rooms, they should be this away; we need to get to that tower over there ... "

She points to the closest of a pair of towers farther around the curve of the keep.

"We need to reenter the castle there ... go down a set of stairs, wrap around the corridors until we can find the stairs to his tower.

"And yes.

"Mother made memorize the keep layout before I took a step out of the Dawnview gates."




... a little while and a couple wrong turns later the small entourage arrive at their destination, in the wake of three servants obviously bringing blankets and pillows to the normally unused suite ...

Cesare

In his position by the door, Cesare gave advanced warning that some were approaching, continuing to lounge casually near to the door.

The Heartwood
Talantal, the Grand Duchy of Talantal
Late Afternoon, Attaday, the twenty-seventh day of Dragon

Bekkah and Romana

Romana took a step after Bekkah, her brow wrinkled in concentration.

"Romanas understands cloisters and all.

She rose to tip toes, looking down the corridor Lady Anastatia had also pointed out.

"If go straight, Dazidazi and Kadriskories not know where we are.

"That not good. For we have also have special good to do here, yesyesyes? Sick boy find?

"Maybe ... maybe tell Dazidazi first, before cloisters? Then Dazidazi not worry.

"Dazidazi worry ...

"Dazidazi gets grumpy."

Bekkah

She smiled at Romana.

"Of course. I would think she'd be done catching up. If not, we'll simply tell her where we're going and be off."

She began walking towards where they'd expected to find Dazi.

[OOC: Good, I like how you assume Dazi is going to get there this month. AAAAARRRRRGGGGGHHHHHH!!!!! And if my utility room ceiling is in shambles, a contractor might go on The List. Also, work + chorus = don't expect a post before late Saturday (which, by the way, is next month). This has been a very stressed-out recording... which will be replaced with an actual post at some point. Next month. Sigh.]

Cesare

In each case Cesare warns Kadri and the others that people are approaching. It is best that some things are not overheard. They have a front to keep up in public. He is relieved though that it is Daxia's group and then Bekkah and Romana arriving, though Daxia brings someone he has yet to form an opinion on.

Mikal

"Kathi. James. Mouse." He echoes Kadri's repetition of their name to better instill them in his memory.

"Thank you." He says, moving to take the heavy tray from Kathi, but she sets it down on the table before he reaches her.

He nods at Kadri's comments to them, adding, "Perhaps, after you have eaten, you might show me around the servant's areas?"

He doesn't like being 'penned' up in this tower one little bit, and knowing the exits might be a life or death thing. He also suspects that the servants know ways in and out of this place that the Nobles don't.

Cesare

"I'd like to come along too Mikal."

Even though he hopes they won't be here for too long, getting the lay of the land sounds like a good idea.

Mikal

He nods at Cesare. "As long as someone is here to watch the group, sure. But if Daxia, Kay, and Dean get called away one of us needs to stick around. You can go look around without me if that happens."

Verchovai Daxia Yurisdotter

Daxia simply smiled. “I know,” she said softly.

But she snickered when Kay protested that she wasn’t a lady. “You’ll get even less far arguing that point with your cousin than I did, youngling, and I didn’t get very far. You’re a scamp, that’s true. But you’re also a Koromov, a member of an Imperial family.” Dazi shrugged. “Lord Dominic is a scamp, but he’s still a Korie and a member of a Noble family.”

She smiled, then patted Kay’s shoulder. “You’ll get used it. I only start looking behind be for Lady Daxia one out of three times now. And as the Captain so rightly pointed out to me... titles can be useful tools.” She looked across at the tower that was their destination. “Especially here, I would have to say. And of the three of us...” Daxia pointed to herself, then Kay and Dandy. “...I am least entitled, as it were, to claim to be a Lady.” But then she grinned. “A member of an Imperial family named me so, however. Who am I to argue?” She glanced at Dandy. “Anymore.”

Daxia walked at Kisa’s side, though she made sure she was seen to be the appropriate half pace behind the Heir should they happen upon anyone in the corridors or stairways. That the Khorall had insisted Kisa memorize the Korie castle did not surprise Daxia in the least. That was pure pragmatism. That the Khorall knew the castle well enough to instruct the Heir on its layout... No. Dazi decided that didn’t really surprise her either.

She did, however, precede Kisa, Dandy and Kay into Lord Dominic’s suite, just in time to hear Mikal’s remark.

“Unless we are ordered by Dama Allaine to do so, it would not be proper for me or Kay to attend Lady Korie.” The corners of her mouth twitched in an attempt not to grin. “Kay is a member of the Allaine House Guard. Common perceptions would see me in that role, as well, I’m afraid.” Dazi shook her head. “I know you hate politics, Mikal, but... that’s all we have here.”

Daxia turned to the redhead beside her, and did smile. “It is my pleasure to finally introduce you to my friends, Dama,” she said, aware of the servants in the room and the need to maintain at least a veneer of propriety. “May I present Dama Kadri djinn Khayriyah djinn Terilanquel al’Korie... my Second, Mikal D’Allyne... Cesare khal’Jasmine kha’Sayako kha’Twilight kha’Horosha Danika... and Squire Dean Marguard of Talesan’s Village.”

She then glanced around the room. “Did Bekkah and Romana get lost?”

Bekkah

"I never get lost." her sister said with a smile as she entered the room with Romana in tow.

"We wanted to show proper respect the Lady here. I also wanted her to hear first hand that Romana is serious and that I am not using my Lady's name in some game."

"And Romana will have the opportunity early tomorrow to try out her new skills." she said with a wink and smile for Romana.

"All is well here, I assume?"

Verchovai Daxia Yurisdotter

Dazi smiled at her sister and chuckled. “All is well, and I distinctly remember you getting lost. Once. That time right before you left for Lilia’s Castle.”

“Dama,” she said again to Kisa, laughter still in her voice, “may I also present Lady Bekkah Yurisdotter, Priestess of Attera — the very same Bekkah of whom I have spoken at great length — and her Initiate, Princess Rhomanishkah' al'lhahrhonsha' al'khylyrishkatsarinish.

“My friends, this is Dama Kisa Allaine, Heir of Allaine.”

Then Daxia looked at Dandy, and nodded to both Dean and Romana. “Dean and Romana were well met along the Brementown Road,” she said more softly, “though I suspect some in Bordertown will dispute their vital assistance in the... ah... events that transpired there at Midwinter.” She shrugged. Garrick had explained Dandy’s opinion of the goings on at the Temple. “I am fortunate to call them both friends, for the thing we undid could not have been undone without both of them.”

She looked first at Romana, and then Dean. “Captain Dandelion Koromov of the Wild Horde.” Daxia’s eyes returned to Romana. She was not exactly worried about Romana’s reaction to the senior Starry-bred Killer... though she did want to convey in her gaze that Romana was, indeed, far safer among three Dayalans than she would have been in her own home.

Bekkah

"I don't remember that." she said with a wink.

She bowed her head slightly to Kisa.

"Dama, it is a pleasure to finally meet you. I've heard so much about you through my sister's letters."

Kadri:

She offers a curtsey, a genuine one this time, to Kisa - and deeper than the one that had been offered to the Lord Montague by enough to be noticed.

"I do not know you, Dama Allaine, but what I know of you through Dazi is good. And if she has respect for you than I find that I must share it."

She pauses a moment, looking up.

"Captain Koromov"

She acknowledges, then looks back to Kisa.

"But I would request to just be called Kadri. This 'Dama' bit wears on me like a corset. I am no fancy lady, whatever blood or circumstance may say. I am plain, simple, Kadri."

She tilts her head to one side, then offered a thousand watt smile.



"And simple Kadri is quite enough for my tastes."

The smile is followed by a wink.