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Into the Icy Darkness: The Great Demon War
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<blockquote data-quote="Emperor Valerian" data-source="post: 1349953" data-attributes="member: 15043"><p>Part Four of the 1-30-04 adventure</p><p></p><p><strong> Of Invitations, Generals, and Shopping for a Gala</strong></p><p></p><p>As Tess’ loud cry of annoyance came back in its final echoes from the rafters of the Temple’s ceiling, a messenger, clad in the crimson and gold of the Imperial family, a golden dragon crest upon his chest, strode into the Temple and up to the still smiling Lucius.</p><p></p><p>“M’lord… I bear a message for you, from the Princess.” Tess watched as Lucius’ and Siabrey’s faces fell at hearing the woman’s name. The man then produced a small scroll, which he then handed to Lucius. The messenger then bowed, backed away for several steps, and strode out the door.</p><p></p><p><em>Likely the gala invitation,</em> Tess thought as she walked up beside Siabrey and Lucius. <em>I wonder if the rest of use are invited?</em> she thought, peering over his shoulder as Lucius opened the scroll:</p><p></p><p><em>My Honorable Lord,</em></p><p><em></em></p><p><em>You are commanded to appear at a regal gala, that will occur three nights hence, honoring the arrival of Princess Zoe within the city of Irulas. You are invited to bring with your person one guest, in addition to three retainers and a single guest with each.</em></p><p></p><p>Lucius growled a sigh as his crumpled up the summons, turned, and looked at the rest of the group still there.</p><p></p><p>“Well, ladies and gentlemen, it appears we have a ball we have to attend.”</p><p></p><p>Tess frowned. Even with the settling information she’d scouted out over the course of the day, she still did not trust this Princess Zoe. <em>We’ve been attacked at our sleeping area, we’ve been attacked on the road. Who is to say we can’t be attacked by poison in the middle of a party?</em></p><p></p><p><em>But it’s a GALA</em>! the other part of Tess’ mind whined. <em>You have never, ever been to an Imperial gala before! Imagine the lights, the sounds, the sights… elbow to elbow with the crème de la crème of the entire Valley… and if you can get a performance arranged in front of all of them…</em> Her heart jumped a little at the thought, before her concerned mined came back, and the two thoughts tussled in her head.</p><p></p><p>“I don’t think we should go,” Tess says quietly, “ at least you, Lucius, shouldn’t go alone.”</p><p></p><p>“Lucius, there is no way you are going there without me. At the very least, I’m your bodyguard,” Siabrey stated matter of factly. Her eyes’ flashed in determination… Lucius wasn’t going to be stubborn on that. </p><p><em>Not to mention he’s more than that to you, dear,</em> Tess finished what was undoubtedly Siabrey’s thoughts, even as she had to suppress part of her mind that wanted to giggle at the contrast between Siabrey’s dour, serious look and the disheveled and disorganized state of her hair and armor.</p><p></p><p>“Well, my dear,” Lucius leaned over Siabrey and kissed her forehead with a grin, “I have no intention of leaving you behind… nor you Tess, nor any of the others here… save perhaps Grumki,” he paused. “I’m not so sure his large frame and loud voice would fit in too well at a royal function.</p><p></p><p><em>Of course he’s not going to leave her behind! Silly…</em> her mind started to fume a tad, before she bumped the control back to herself, <em>Yes, you’re a tad grumpy again that she’s got him and you don’t… but hey, you DO have this glammered stuff…</em></p><p></p><p>“Grumki would likely be happier exhibiting his blessings from Kord at the temple,” Tess agreed.</p><p></p><p>“Well then… that just means that tomorrow, we all will need to go clothes shopping,” Lucius said quietly, a little dread initially in his voice. Tess, however, caught him taking a glance at Siabrey, and something else coming over his face… she made a note to ask about it later.</p><p></p><p>“How much do we have to work with?” Tess asked. “I’m fairly knowledgeable with matching colors and patterns, and as I won’t need a dress…” she twirled in her glammered armor, “… I’ll have plenty of time to help others out!” <em>At last, a chance to add a little culture possibly to this rough and tumble group!</em></p><p></p><p>“Well,” Lucius began, “I have about 500 platinum left in my pouch here… after that, I’m going to need to ask the other nobles for some assistance.”</p><p></p><p>“You… what?” Tess almost screeched.</p><p></p><p><em>My brother’s men, the one’s that fought and died for you to reach here safely, were told they would be paid 15,000 gold… three times that amount! And you can’t pay them, after all they went through!?</em> Her face evidently betrayed her rising turmoil, as Lucius looked directly at her when as he continued.</p><p></p><p>“Tess, I know about your brother’s men… and as soon as I can, I will pay them in full, and if I can afford it, with some extra.” </p><p></p><p><em>Well, I suppose I should see what his plan is before lopping his head off with Fa’rallan,</em> Tess’ mind calmed down a little.</p><p></p><p>“I want to spend this last 500 platinum as any one of you might be crucial to gaining the funding and support we require, and you all need to look your best. Tess, I know that I won’t have to look after you…”</p><p></p><p>Tess gave a slight blush… it was the first time in a long while someone had acknowledged her good taste in clothes. That trait had unfortunately not been in high demand when demons blocked the roads to their front, and orcs charged up their rear…</p><p></p><p>“…but I think that Shaun, Elenya, and you, my dear,” he held Siabrey close for a hug, “might need some new clothes.”</p><p></p><p>“But I,” Siabrey started to complain, before Lucius’s look told her to be quiet.</p><p></p><p>“Now, tomorrow each one of you is going to get 50 platinum to spend on items… Tess and I will monitor and keep a lookout… alright?” There were nods, but Siabrey looked a little miffed.</p><p></p><p><em>Probably because she thinks all this money being spent on her is such a waste,</em> Tess mused, as Lucius walked up to her.</p><p></p><p>“Yes, Lucius?” she asked.</p><p></p><p>“Um... Tess?” he asked quietly. “I’d like you to keep in mind that Siabrey is going to get an extra 10 platinum for her attire… someone besides me needs to know so one of us will remember tomorrow.” Tess smiled.</p><p></p><p>“Of course, Luke. Now,” she said quietly, in a conspiratory tone, “what do you think that she should buy? I’m thinking something in rose…”</p><p></p><p>Lucius frowned, looking at Siabrey as she walked up the hall. Tess looked at him, expecting a response… and after not receiving a response, she gave him an elbow in the stomach.</p><p></p><p>“Oof! Wha… what? Huh? Oh… I’m… I’m thinking yellow… strapless!” His grin was lazy, as if his mind was preoccupied with a pleasant daydream.</p><p></p><p><em>Hmm… maybe this guy doesn’t have a bad eye either…</em> Tess thought, cocking her head to the side and looking at Siabrey also. “Why yellow?” It was more a curiosity question than anything.</p><p></p><p>“Yellow and Royal Blue are my house colors,” Lucius said, “and besides, I think yellow would compliment her eyes… and her figure…” his mind drifted off again, and Tess had to clear her throat to get him back. He jumped slightly, before turning slightly red with embarassment... which Tess had to grin at.</p><p></p><p>“Then, its yellow!” </p><p></p><p>Lucius grinned, thanked Tess, and walked off to his room…</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Siabrey smiled, as she thought of Lucius in a dashing uniform at a gala ball. <em>That’s far beyond Ilkbar’s party that my mom wouldn’t let me go to so many years ago. It’s an IMPERIAL GALA! Dancing, singing, Lucius!</em> </p><p></p><p>She absent-mindedly danced through the halls for a few minutes, the noise of the music and banter filling the air, Lucius always at her side in her mind, his smiling face beaming down on her…</p><p></p><p>She stopped as she reached the library, and saw Xanadu studying several books. </p><p></p><p><em>I wonder what he is up to?</em> she thought, walking up to him, and asking him if he was going to the gala. He said he wasn’t… that he’d be more useful researching here than, “cavorting about in the palace, acting like a fool.” </p><p></p><p>A little set back, Siabrey then went back to her room, tired and happy for the day. She opened the door to find Lucius once again sitting cross-legged on the floor, reading out of a rather large, frumpy looking book.</p><p></p><p><em>Another one?</em> her mind asked, with a tired but happy smile. Unlike before, he didn’t hide the book, and merely shifted it so she could see the title…</p><p></p><p><em>Manual for the Evolution of Military Corps and Troops.</em></p><p></p><p>“Um…Lucius? Why are you reading that?” Siabrey asked quietly. Compared to his recent reading choice, it seemed far out of character. He looked up at her, and for the first time all day almost, his eyes had no mirth or laughter in them… merely serious thought… and a little confusion.</p><p></p><p>“The Governor said that I must command the troops heading out to fight my mother,” he paused for second and sighed, “but I don’t know anything about controlling an army, or marching it around! Nothing! So I got this book… but I don’t understand any of it!” His face grew a little red as he vented his frustration, and Siabrey sat down next to him, gently stroking his hair.</p><p></p><p>“Its ok. I’ll see if I can help you.” He leaned over and gave her a quick kiss of thanks, before pointing to his question… on the third page of the entire book.</p><p></p><p>“What’s moving in echelon? Why would I want my soldiers to be in a crooked line like that… wouldn’t it be better to be in a straight line?”</p><p></p><p>As more questions came flying out of Lucius’ mouth faster than a rabid squirrel possessed by a <em>haste</em> spell, Siabrey’s mind grew more and more befuddled in a molasses of misunderstanding.</p><p></p><p><em>I don’t understand any of this! I was a freelancer… I didn’t work in armies! What the heck is a coup de main? Cavalry moving echelon flank rear… what?</em> The pictures and cryptic notes in the book confused her further, as Lucius looked at her with hopeful eyes for each question, only to receive the same answer:</p><p></p><p>“I have no clue.”</p><p></p><p>Finally, he slammed the book shut and let of a frustrated grunt. </p><p></p><p>“I’m sorry, honey… I don’t know any of this!” </p><p></p><p>“Its ok,” Lucius said quietly. “Don’t blame yourself… do you know anyone that might know?” Siabrey’s mind grew much happier at the potential solution.</p><p></p><p>“Not off the top of my head,” she started, “but I can try to find someone! Gimme a second!” she blurted as she dashed out of the room.</p><p></p><p><em>Hmm… Pellaron… Pellaron knows about warfare! He’s a paladin! He’s a fighter!</em> A few minutes later, she had practically dragged the confused elf to Lucius’ side, where unfortunately many of the same answers were heard. Desperate, she then went back to the library, to find Xanadu still seated, reading from the same book.</p><p></p><p>“Xanadu?” she asked. “Do you… um… know anything about warfare? About tactics?”</p><p></p><p>Xanadu looked up from his reading quietly, and looked into her eyes. “Why?”</p><p></p><p>“Lucius is trying to read a book on military tactics… but he doesn’t understand any of it. Neither do Pellaron, or me. We thought that maybe our 700 year old friend might have played soldier at some point in his long life,” she tossed out a bit of humor. To her surprise, he responded with a wan smile.</p><p></p><p>“At one point, many many years ago, I did,” he said quietly. “I shall go set the young man straight. Take me to him!”</p><p></p><p><em>Thank god</em> Siabrey thought as she led Xanadu back to Lucius’ room, which now included her boy, Pellaron, and a couple priests of Pelor who were also clueless. The wizard sat down next to the boy, and quickly and concisely began explaining terms to him.</p><p></p><p>It took several hours, as Siabrey, Pellaron and others sat around, trying to learn as much as they could as the elder half elf fired off responses every half second it seemed. They hardly understood much of what he said, and Siabrey knew full well that Lucius was only memorizing what he heard, and not analyzing any of it (it was barely what she could manage).</p><p></p><p><em>I’m not sure my love has learned anything,</em> she thought quietly as Xanadu finished his rapid-fire summation of batalion carrere tactical formations.</p><p></p><p>“Um…” Lucius said quietly, “Xanadu, could you possibly run a mock battle for me tomorrow, so I can practice some of these things? I don’t think I understand yet…”</p><p></p><p>The wizard laughed, and agreed, offering to meet the boy outside the Temple after they returned from buying clothes. Lucius thanked him, and soon the entire entourage in the room cleared out, until Lucius and Siabrey are left alone. </p><p></p><p>“He is going to shred me tommorrow,” Lucius said as he began undressing, “but I will learn.” He turned to Siabrey, and tapped his forehead. </p><p></p><p>“You’re a smart boy, you will,” she said with a smile as he plopped himself into bed beside her. She gave him a quick kiss, and smiled again, “If you don’t, then I’ll have to go out there and save you from his paper armies and tactics!” That sparked more laughter, and the two, tired from the day’s recreations and just a tad sore, settled down for a nice cuddle before falling asleep in each other’s arms.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Tess walked into her brother’s room, quietly closing the door behind her. Quin still heard, and sat himself up on his new arm.</p><p></p><p>“How’s your arm feeling?” Tess asked, setting her brother’s supper down in front of him. He sniffed the air and smiled at the ham and eggs. </p><p></p><p>“Much better… it feels almost like the old one!” he proudly announced. He moved his arm around in the air as if he was leading an orchestra, proudly showing off its dexterity for her. “What about you, sis? How is the world treating my Tess?”</p><p></p><p>“Fair ‘nough,” came Tess’ reply. “Though it looks like I get to attend a GALA this week!” she grinned, and her brother rolled his eyes. </p><p></p><p>“Good for you Tess… don’t expect me to come, though. You know how I absolutely hate social dances.”</p><p></p><p>“You sure? You’ll get to see me in a gorgeous dress!” Tess tried to tempt him, but came up short. Instead, she settled for talking with him for the rest of the night.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Next morning, Shaun and Elenya happily walked back from the Temple of Sune back towards Pelor. </p><p></p><p><em>I cannot believe this woman!</em> Shaun grinned, his body still tired from lack of sleep, and slightly sore from the exercise. It seemed that he learned more and more about how he thought Elenya was perfect every day… about how she cooked, about how she cared for him, about her good looks (of course, that was the first thing he noticed), and now… other things…</p><p></p><p>“Hon,” he said as he walked oddly, “I think the priests are keeping those notes.” Elenya grinned a proud smile, as if she was proudly displaying a prized kitten. The two turned down an alleyway, a shortcut that Shaun thought would take them to the Temple of Pelor much quicker.</p><p></p><p>“I hope they keep some notes… I stretched my creativity there!” she laughed. </p><p></p><p>AS they reminisced about the previous afternoon… night… and morning, they barely noticed a small halfling man who stepped into their path before they almost ran him over.</p><p></p><p>“Good day, good sir and lady. Do you have any alms to spare the poor?” the man’s voice, unusually deep and foreboding, asked.</p><p></p><p>“Um…” Shaun thought for a few seconds, before reaching into his money pouch and pulling out 5 gold to give to the man, “…here. May the gods bless your future this day.”</p><p></p><p>Within a second, the halfling had produced a dagger, and began waving it menacingly towards Shaun. “How about you donate the rest of you pouch to me, and I’ll let you keep your life!”</p><p></p><p><em>What the…?</em> was Shaun’s initial reaction… he had so long been the thief that he was unused to being thieved. Without a word, Shaun draws his rapier in a flash, and the butt of the blade crashed into the halfling’s head, sending his brain swimming.</p><p></p><p>“Stupid bastard,” Shaun growled, preparing to smack him again when Elenya produced her hands, and an arcane word rose in the air as a light flashed intense and bright in the man’s eyes. </p><p></p><p>“C’mon Shaun!” she said, pulling him away from knocking the man out, “we should get away before his friends arrive?”</p><p></p><p>“Yeah… right. That’s what you get, you sick bastard!” Shaun snapped at the blinded man as Elenya dragged him away.</p><p></p><p>As they arrived back at the Temple, the found that everyone else, save Pellaron and Xanadu, were just heading out.</p><p></p><p>“Um… what's up? Where’s everyone going?” Shaun asked. He saw Tess give him and Elenya a scowl, and put on the most innocent face he could muster… which failed. He then settled for a big, obnoxious smile.</p><p></p><p><em>Yes… me and Elenya had an active night… so? Upset a bit, are we Tess?</em></p><p></p><p>“We’re headed out to buy some clothes for a gala we’ve been invited to,” Tess said rather sternly, as Shaun finally figured out her annoyance was likely more at their late arrival than their previous activities. His mischievous smile then fell to an embarrassed grin.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><em>I can’t believe I’m being dragged into dress shopping yet again!</em> part of Siabrey growled. She still remembered the horror of being dragged through Holstean by Tess, and the resulting horrible pain that the red, corseted horror that came from the trip caused.</p><p></p><p><em>Oh god… please, no more corsets</em> she hoped, but she knew with her wings, that was a wish that would sadly probably not come true. </p><p></p><p><em>They accept your wings… who you are… but the others at the gala won’t necessarily do that. You must protect Lucius from their confusion at seeing you… as well as yourself now.</em></p><p></p><p>Lucius had informed her that morning that he was taking her as his consort… his official confidant and lover. It was a title with no rank of its own, though being known as the Consort of the second highest ranking noble in the Valley after the Governor himself would carry a great deal of weight.</p><p></p><p><em>Tonight, I’m going to have to watch my tongue carefully… only use my words to help Lucius, not myself</em> she thought as the party drew nigh to a the small, elegant shop that information had pointed to as the most debonair in the entire city.</p><p></p><p>As she entered, Siabrey’s senses were immediately assaulted by the sweet smells of perfume, as her eyes took in the fact that the walls, chairs, and floors were covered in velvet or silk. As in Holstean, almost immediately the group was surrounded by a horde of assistants, who fussed and fettered. Tess immediately came into her own, acting as the proud commanding matriarch, general of her adopted armies of tailors and jewelers.</p><p></p><p>First was Elenya, who Tess supervised into a transformation from a barmaid and minor magician into a stunning beauty, clad in green and blue with yellow highlights on her dress. Next came Shaun, whose royal outfit was retailored to now include Lucius’ family colors, in addition to a big, puffy hat with a large feather. Shaun immediately fell in love with the hat, and refused to take it off the rest of the day. Next came Lucius himself, who had his own nobles outfit altered and set properly with a few gemstones to impress onto onlookers his rank.</p><p></p><p>Finally, with some apprehension, Siabrey realized it was her turn. Her apprehension grew as she saw that Lucius was now standing next to Tess, and both had quite… dangerous grins on their faces.</p><p></p><p>“What… what are you planning?” she asked, raising an eyebrow. “I’ve been with you two long enough that I know when you are plotting something! Out with it!”</p><p></p><p>“Oh… nothing,” Lucius gave an innocent blink of his eyes. “Just that we picked this dress out for you.”</p><p></p><p><em>Picked a dress out… what? </em></p><p></p><p>The dress was long and flowing, yellow with small traces of blue running along its piping. Atop the dress was a tiara, set with rather large rubies. With a shriek, Siabrey grabbed the tiara and set it on her head, and looked into the mirror, shrieking again when she saw it.</p><p></p><p><em>Oh my God… I can’t believe Lucius spent THAT MUCH! Oh my God…</em></p><p></p><p>“You bastard!” she shouted as she punched him playfully in the shoulder. “You shouldn’t have! Take it back! It’s too much!”</p><p></p><p>Lucius ducked the next weak flurry of blows, before commenting, “I think you are really going to hate me after you see the dress.”</p><p></p><p>Siabrey lifted the dress up, and gasped as she saw how gorgeous it was, yellow and blue, with small diamonds woven into it. She turned the dress around, and then her face went white.</p><p></p><p>“There’s… there’s no back… wha… why is there no back?” she asked, in alarm. <em>I can’t wear this! It doesn’t cover up my wings! What is Lucius</em> thinking!? <em>They’ll be afraid of me! They’ll hate me… and thus hate him!</em></p><p></p><p>“I can’t wear this, Lucius! It doesn’t…” Her protests were stopped as a single finger from him covered her lips. She started to complain again, and he just rested his finger there until she stopped her noises.</p><p></p><p>“That’s why I brought this… it cost me ten platinum.” He held out to her a bag, roughly the size of a small coin bag. Siabrey took the bag from him, and gingerly opened it, revealing its contents; a soft, golden colored dust that danced the colors of the rainbow in her eyes.</p><p></p><p>“Lucius? What is this?” she said in shock.</p><p></p><p>“Its electrum dust, my love,” Lucius grinned like a schoolboy that had just finished the biggest prank in school history. “You can sprinkle it over your wings, and they’ll change from a winged oddity to a dress accessory that will be the talk of the party. All the others will envy you… and best of all… no corset crushing them against your back!”</p><p></p><p><em>He… what?</em> Siabrey was almost crying. <em>No corset? They’ll like me… and like my wings? No hiding?</em> An entire childhood of secrecy and hiding began to well out as she gripped Lucius tightly in a crushing bear hug… tight enough that her small frame caused him to gasp a little.</p><p></p><p>“I saw how much you squirmed at the Baron’s with that old dress on. No more,” he smiled once he regained his breath.</p><p></p><p>“I love you… so so much!” she giggled into his chest. <em>I look like I always wanted… and no one will laugh at my skin, no one will laugh at my wings!</em></p><p></p><p>Her mind dashed back to all those years ago, and for once, she didn’t wish she could go back and head to Ilkbar’s party. She was happy with the here and now, and wanted only to get to the gala, and confirm that her hopes would be true…</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Emperor Valerian, post: 1349953, member: 15043"] Part Four of the 1-30-04 adventure [b] Of Invitations, Generals, and Shopping for a Gala[/b] As Tess’ loud cry of annoyance came back in its final echoes from the rafters of the Temple’s ceiling, a messenger, clad in the crimson and gold of the Imperial family, a golden dragon crest upon his chest, strode into the Temple and up to the still smiling Lucius. “M’lord… I bear a message for you, from the Princess.” Tess watched as Lucius’ and Siabrey’s faces fell at hearing the woman’s name. The man then produced a small scroll, which he then handed to Lucius. The messenger then bowed, backed away for several steps, and strode out the door. [I]Likely the gala invitation,[/I] Tess thought as she walked up beside Siabrey and Lucius. [I]I wonder if the rest of use are invited?[/I] she thought, peering over his shoulder as Lucius opened the scroll: [I]My Honorable Lord, You are commanded to appear at a regal gala, that will occur three nights hence, honoring the arrival of Princess Zoe within the city of Irulas. You are invited to bring with your person one guest, in addition to three retainers and a single guest with each.[/I] Lucius growled a sigh as his crumpled up the summons, turned, and looked at the rest of the group still there. “Well, ladies and gentlemen, it appears we have a ball we have to attend.” Tess frowned. Even with the settling information she’d scouted out over the course of the day, she still did not trust this Princess Zoe. [I]We’ve been attacked at our sleeping area, we’ve been attacked on the road. Who is to say we can’t be attacked by poison in the middle of a party?[/I] [I]But it’s a GALA[/I]! the other part of Tess’ mind whined. [I]You have never, ever been to an Imperial gala before! Imagine the lights, the sounds, the sights… elbow to elbow with the crème de la crème of the entire Valley… and if you can get a performance arranged in front of all of them…[/I] Her heart jumped a little at the thought, before her concerned mined came back, and the two thoughts tussled in her head. “I don’t think we should go,” Tess says quietly, “ at least you, Lucius, shouldn’t go alone.” “Lucius, there is no way you are going there without me. At the very least, I’m your bodyguard,” Siabrey stated matter of factly. Her eyes’ flashed in determination… Lucius wasn’t going to be stubborn on that. [I]Not to mention he’s more than that to you, dear,[/I] Tess finished what was undoubtedly Siabrey’s thoughts, even as she had to suppress part of her mind that wanted to giggle at the contrast between Siabrey’s dour, serious look and the disheveled and disorganized state of her hair and armor. “Well, my dear,” Lucius leaned over Siabrey and kissed her forehead with a grin, “I have no intention of leaving you behind… nor you Tess, nor any of the others here… save perhaps Grumki,” he paused. “I’m not so sure his large frame and loud voice would fit in too well at a royal function. [I]Of course he’s not going to leave her behind! Silly…[/I] her mind started to fume a tad, before she bumped the control back to herself, [I]Yes, you’re a tad grumpy again that she’s got him and you don’t… but hey, you DO have this glammered stuff…[/I] “Grumki would likely be happier exhibiting his blessings from Kord at the temple,” Tess agreed. “Well then… that just means that tomorrow, we all will need to go clothes shopping,” Lucius said quietly, a little dread initially in his voice. Tess, however, caught him taking a glance at Siabrey, and something else coming over his face… she made a note to ask about it later. “How much do we have to work with?” Tess asked. “I’m fairly knowledgeable with matching colors and patterns, and as I won’t need a dress…” she twirled in her glammered armor, “… I’ll have plenty of time to help others out!” [I]At last, a chance to add a little culture possibly to this rough and tumble group![/I] “Well,” Lucius began, “I have about 500 platinum left in my pouch here… after that, I’m going to need to ask the other nobles for some assistance.” “You… what?” Tess almost screeched. [I]My brother’s men, the one’s that fought and died for you to reach here safely, were told they would be paid 15,000 gold… three times that amount! And you can’t pay them, after all they went through!?[/I] Her face evidently betrayed her rising turmoil, as Lucius looked directly at her when as he continued. “Tess, I know about your brother’s men… and as soon as I can, I will pay them in full, and if I can afford it, with some extra.” [I]Well, I suppose I should see what his plan is before lopping his head off with Fa’rallan,[/I] Tess’ mind calmed down a little. “I want to spend this last 500 platinum as any one of you might be crucial to gaining the funding and support we require, and you all need to look your best. Tess, I know that I won’t have to look after you…” Tess gave a slight blush… it was the first time in a long while someone had acknowledged her good taste in clothes. That trait had unfortunately not been in high demand when demons blocked the roads to their front, and orcs charged up their rear… “…but I think that Shaun, Elenya, and you, my dear,” he held Siabrey close for a hug, “might need some new clothes.” “But I,” Siabrey started to complain, before Lucius’s look told her to be quiet. “Now, tomorrow each one of you is going to get 50 platinum to spend on items… Tess and I will monitor and keep a lookout… alright?” There were nods, but Siabrey looked a little miffed. [I]Probably because she thinks all this money being spent on her is such a waste,[/I] Tess mused, as Lucius walked up to her. “Yes, Lucius?” she asked. “Um... Tess?” he asked quietly. “I’d like you to keep in mind that Siabrey is going to get an extra 10 platinum for her attire… someone besides me needs to know so one of us will remember tomorrow.” Tess smiled. “Of course, Luke. Now,” she said quietly, in a conspiratory tone, “what do you think that she should buy? I’m thinking something in rose…” Lucius frowned, looking at Siabrey as she walked up the hall. Tess looked at him, expecting a response… and after not receiving a response, she gave him an elbow in the stomach. “Oof! Wha… what? Huh? Oh… I’m… I’m thinking yellow… strapless!” His grin was lazy, as if his mind was preoccupied with a pleasant daydream. [I]Hmm… maybe this guy doesn’t have a bad eye either…[/I] Tess thought, cocking her head to the side and looking at Siabrey also. “Why yellow?” It was more a curiosity question than anything. “Yellow and Royal Blue are my house colors,” Lucius said, “and besides, I think yellow would compliment her eyes… and her figure…” his mind drifted off again, and Tess had to clear her throat to get him back. He jumped slightly, before turning slightly red with embarassment... which Tess had to grin at. “Then, its yellow!” Lucius grinned, thanked Tess, and walked off to his room… Siabrey smiled, as she thought of Lucius in a dashing uniform at a gala ball. [I]That’s far beyond Ilkbar’s party that my mom wouldn’t let me go to so many years ago. It’s an IMPERIAL GALA! Dancing, singing, Lucius![/I] She absent-mindedly danced through the halls for a few minutes, the noise of the music and banter filling the air, Lucius always at her side in her mind, his smiling face beaming down on her… She stopped as she reached the library, and saw Xanadu studying several books. [I]I wonder what he is up to?[/I] she thought, walking up to him, and asking him if he was going to the gala. He said he wasn’t… that he’d be more useful researching here than, “cavorting about in the palace, acting like a fool.” A little set back, Siabrey then went back to her room, tired and happy for the day. She opened the door to find Lucius once again sitting cross-legged on the floor, reading out of a rather large, frumpy looking book. [I]Another one?[/I] her mind asked, with a tired but happy smile. Unlike before, he didn’t hide the book, and merely shifted it so she could see the title… [I]Manual for the Evolution of Military Corps and Troops.[/I] “Um…Lucius? Why are you reading that?” Siabrey asked quietly. Compared to his recent reading choice, it seemed far out of character. He looked up at her, and for the first time all day almost, his eyes had no mirth or laughter in them… merely serious thought… and a little confusion. “The Governor said that I must command the troops heading out to fight my mother,” he paused for second and sighed, “but I don’t know anything about controlling an army, or marching it around! Nothing! So I got this book… but I don’t understand any of it!” His face grew a little red as he vented his frustration, and Siabrey sat down next to him, gently stroking his hair. “Its ok. I’ll see if I can help you.” He leaned over and gave her a quick kiss of thanks, before pointing to his question… on the third page of the entire book. “What’s moving in echelon? Why would I want my soldiers to be in a crooked line like that… wouldn’t it be better to be in a straight line?” As more questions came flying out of Lucius’ mouth faster than a rabid squirrel possessed by a [I]haste[/I] spell, Siabrey’s mind grew more and more befuddled in a molasses of misunderstanding. [I]I don’t understand any of this! I was a freelancer… I didn’t work in armies! What the heck is a coup de main? Cavalry moving echelon flank rear… what?[/I] The pictures and cryptic notes in the book confused her further, as Lucius looked at her with hopeful eyes for each question, only to receive the same answer: “I have no clue.” Finally, he slammed the book shut and let of a frustrated grunt. “I’m sorry, honey… I don’t know any of this!” “Its ok,” Lucius said quietly. “Don’t blame yourself… do you know anyone that might know?” Siabrey’s mind grew much happier at the potential solution. “Not off the top of my head,” she started, “but I can try to find someone! Gimme a second!” she blurted as she dashed out of the room. [I]Hmm… Pellaron… Pellaron knows about warfare! He’s a paladin! He’s a fighter![/I] A few minutes later, she had practically dragged the confused elf to Lucius’ side, where unfortunately many of the same answers were heard. Desperate, she then went back to the library, to find Xanadu still seated, reading from the same book. “Xanadu?” she asked. “Do you… um… know anything about warfare? About tactics?” Xanadu looked up from his reading quietly, and looked into her eyes. “Why?” “Lucius is trying to read a book on military tactics… but he doesn’t understand any of it. Neither do Pellaron, or me. We thought that maybe our 700 year old friend might have played soldier at some point in his long life,” she tossed out a bit of humor. To her surprise, he responded with a wan smile. “At one point, many many years ago, I did,” he said quietly. “I shall go set the young man straight. Take me to him!” [I]Thank god[/I] Siabrey thought as she led Xanadu back to Lucius’ room, which now included her boy, Pellaron, and a couple priests of Pelor who were also clueless. The wizard sat down next to the boy, and quickly and concisely began explaining terms to him. It took several hours, as Siabrey, Pellaron and others sat around, trying to learn as much as they could as the elder half elf fired off responses every half second it seemed. They hardly understood much of what he said, and Siabrey knew full well that Lucius was only memorizing what he heard, and not analyzing any of it (it was barely what she could manage). [I]I’m not sure my love has learned anything,[/I] she thought quietly as Xanadu finished his rapid-fire summation of batalion carrere tactical formations. “Um…” Lucius said quietly, “Xanadu, could you possibly run a mock battle for me tomorrow, so I can practice some of these things? I don’t think I understand yet…” The wizard laughed, and agreed, offering to meet the boy outside the Temple after they returned from buying clothes. Lucius thanked him, and soon the entire entourage in the room cleared out, until Lucius and Siabrey are left alone. “He is going to shred me tommorrow,” Lucius said as he began undressing, “but I will learn.” He turned to Siabrey, and tapped his forehead. “You’re a smart boy, you will,” she said with a smile as he plopped himself into bed beside her. She gave him a quick kiss, and smiled again, “If you don’t, then I’ll have to go out there and save you from his paper armies and tactics!” That sparked more laughter, and the two, tired from the day’s recreations and just a tad sore, settled down for a nice cuddle before falling asleep in each other’s arms. Tess walked into her brother’s room, quietly closing the door behind her. Quin still heard, and sat himself up on his new arm. “How’s your arm feeling?” Tess asked, setting her brother’s supper down in front of him. He sniffed the air and smiled at the ham and eggs. “Much better… it feels almost like the old one!” he proudly announced. He moved his arm around in the air as if he was leading an orchestra, proudly showing off its dexterity for her. “What about you, sis? How is the world treating my Tess?” “Fair ‘nough,” came Tess’ reply. “Though it looks like I get to attend a GALA this week!” she grinned, and her brother rolled his eyes. “Good for you Tess… don’t expect me to come, though. You know how I absolutely hate social dances.” “You sure? You’ll get to see me in a gorgeous dress!” Tess tried to tempt him, but came up short. Instead, she settled for talking with him for the rest of the night. Next morning, Shaun and Elenya happily walked back from the Temple of Sune back towards Pelor. [I]I cannot believe this woman![/I] Shaun grinned, his body still tired from lack of sleep, and slightly sore from the exercise. It seemed that he learned more and more about how he thought Elenya was perfect every day… about how she cooked, about how she cared for him, about her good looks (of course, that was the first thing he noticed), and now… other things… “Hon,” he said as he walked oddly, “I think the priests are keeping those notes.” Elenya grinned a proud smile, as if she was proudly displaying a prized kitten. The two turned down an alleyway, a shortcut that Shaun thought would take them to the Temple of Pelor much quicker. “I hope they keep some notes… I stretched my creativity there!” she laughed. AS they reminisced about the previous afternoon… night… and morning, they barely noticed a small halfling man who stepped into their path before they almost ran him over. “Good day, good sir and lady. Do you have any alms to spare the poor?” the man’s voice, unusually deep and foreboding, asked. “Um…” Shaun thought for a few seconds, before reaching into his money pouch and pulling out 5 gold to give to the man, “…here. May the gods bless your future this day.” Within a second, the halfling had produced a dagger, and began waving it menacingly towards Shaun. “How about you donate the rest of you pouch to me, and I’ll let you keep your life!” [I]What the…?[/I] was Shaun’s initial reaction… he had so long been the thief that he was unused to being thieved. Without a word, Shaun draws his rapier in a flash, and the butt of the blade crashed into the halfling’s head, sending his brain swimming. “Stupid bastard,” Shaun growled, preparing to smack him again when Elenya produced her hands, and an arcane word rose in the air as a light flashed intense and bright in the man’s eyes. “C’mon Shaun!” she said, pulling him away from knocking the man out, “we should get away before his friends arrive?” “Yeah… right. That’s what you get, you sick bastard!” Shaun snapped at the blinded man as Elenya dragged him away. As they arrived back at the Temple, the found that everyone else, save Pellaron and Xanadu, were just heading out. “Um… what's up? Where’s everyone going?” Shaun asked. He saw Tess give him and Elenya a scowl, and put on the most innocent face he could muster… which failed. He then settled for a big, obnoxious smile. [I]Yes… me and Elenya had an active night… so? Upset a bit, are we Tess?[/I] “We’re headed out to buy some clothes for a gala we’ve been invited to,” Tess said rather sternly, as Shaun finally figured out her annoyance was likely more at their late arrival than their previous activities. His mischievous smile then fell to an embarrassed grin. [I]I can’t believe I’m being dragged into dress shopping yet again![/I] part of Siabrey growled. She still remembered the horror of being dragged through Holstean by Tess, and the resulting horrible pain that the red, corseted horror that came from the trip caused. [I]Oh god… please, no more corsets[/I] she hoped, but she knew with her wings, that was a wish that would sadly probably not come true. [I]They accept your wings… who you are… but the others at the gala won’t necessarily do that. You must protect Lucius from their confusion at seeing you… as well as yourself now.[/I] Lucius had informed her that morning that he was taking her as his consort… his official confidant and lover. It was a title with no rank of its own, though being known as the Consort of the second highest ranking noble in the Valley after the Governor himself would carry a great deal of weight. [I]Tonight, I’m going to have to watch my tongue carefully… only use my words to help Lucius, not myself[/I] she thought as the party drew nigh to a the small, elegant shop that information had pointed to as the most debonair in the entire city. As she entered, Siabrey’s senses were immediately assaulted by the sweet smells of perfume, as her eyes took in the fact that the walls, chairs, and floors were covered in velvet or silk. As in Holstean, almost immediately the group was surrounded by a horde of assistants, who fussed and fettered. Tess immediately came into her own, acting as the proud commanding matriarch, general of her adopted armies of tailors and jewelers. First was Elenya, who Tess supervised into a transformation from a barmaid and minor magician into a stunning beauty, clad in green and blue with yellow highlights on her dress. Next came Shaun, whose royal outfit was retailored to now include Lucius’ family colors, in addition to a big, puffy hat with a large feather. Shaun immediately fell in love with the hat, and refused to take it off the rest of the day. Next came Lucius himself, who had his own nobles outfit altered and set properly with a few gemstones to impress onto onlookers his rank. Finally, with some apprehension, Siabrey realized it was her turn. Her apprehension grew as she saw that Lucius was now standing next to Tess, and both had quite… dangerous grins on their faces. “What… what are you planning?” she asked, raising an eyebrow. “I’ve been with you two long enough that I know when you are plotting something! Out with it!” “Oh… nothing,” Lucius gave an innocent blink of his eyes. “Just that we picked this dress out for you.” [I]Picked a dress out… what? [/I] The dress was long and flowing, yellow with small traces of blue running along its piping. Atop the dress was a tiara, set with rather large rubies. With a shriek, Siabrey grabbed the tiara and set it on her head, and looked into the mirror, shrieking again when she saw it. [I]Oh my God… I can’t believe Lucius spent THAT MUCH! Oh my God…[/I] “You bastard!” she shouted as she punched him playfully in the shoulder. “You shouldn’t have! Take it back! It’s too much!” Lucius ducked the next weak flurry of blows, before commenting, “I think you are really going to hate me after you see the dress.” Siabrey lifted the dress up, and gasped as she saw how gorgeous it was, yellow and blue, with small diamonds woven into it. She turned the dress around, and then her face went white. “There’s… there’s no back… wha… why is there no back?” she asked, in alarm. [I]I can’t wear this! It doesn’t cover up my wings! What is Lucius[/I] thinking!? [I]They’ll be afraid of me! They’ll hate me… and thus hate him![/I] “I can’t wear this, Lucius! It doesn’t…” Her protests were stopped as a single finger from him covered her lips. She started to complain again, and he just rested his finger there until she stopped her noises. “That’s why I brought this… it cost me ten platinum.” He held out to her a bag, roughly the size of a small coin bag. Siabrey took the bag from him, and gingerly opened it, revealing its contents; a soft, golden colored dust that danced the colors of the rainbow in her eyes. “Lucius? What is this?” she said in shock. “Its electrum dust, my love,” Lucius grinned like a schoolboy that had just finished the biggest prank in school history. “You can sprinkle it over your wings, and they’ll change from a winged oddity to a dress accessory that will be the talk of the party. All the others will envy you… and best of all… no corset crushing them against your back!” [I]He… what?[/I] Siabrey was almost crying. [I]No corset? They’ll like me… and like my wings? No hiding?[/I] An entire childhood of secrecy and hiding began to well out as she gripped Lucius tightly in a crushing bear hug… tight enough that her small frame caused him to gasp a little. “I saw how much you squirmed at the Baron’s with that old dress on. No more,” he smiled once he regained his breath. “I love you… so so much!” she giggled into his chest. [I]I look like I always wanted… and no one will laugh at my skin, no one will laugh at my wings![/I] Her mind dashed back to all those years ago, and for once, she didn’t wish she could go back and head to Ilkbar’s party. She was happy with the here and now, and wanted only to get to the gala, and confirm that her hopes would be true… [/QUOTE]
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