NationStates Jolt Archive

Eve moved quickly out of the hanger and angled upward, altering her course to take her to Dragonsreach. As she climbed Michael looked at the odd pendant that had been found in his security officers quarters. He still felt betrayed, of course, but worse he began to doubt his own abilities. If he couldn't protect himself, then how could he protect anyone else? He had just leaned back when Eve spoke "Sweetheart? Commander Ivanova is hailing"

He leaned forward as Eve activated the comm, "Gassington, go."

"Chief. We have a problem."

'Tell me something I don't know', he muttered, "what is it now?" he said out loud.

"We have a ship coming into Highport harbor, it's listing. We won't get any ships to it before it goes down. It's a sailing vessel and we can't raise it on any channel. Either it doesn't have comm abilities or there out. Can you get to it? By the way", she said before he could respond, "it's markings show it to be The Duchess Beatrice ship."

"Ahhh nuts."

Eve was altering her course again before he even gave the order, anticipating her love before he could speak. "ETA 37 seconds."

He got up, heading for the main hold and was about to speak when Eve had already anticipated him again. "Lowering ramp now, rescue nets are in place."

"Can you tractor the whole vessel?"

"Not in it's condition. It'll break apart and we'll lose everyone to the sea."

"Lower me as soon as we're in position."

"3 seconds" she said as the cutlass dropped down over the floundering vessel.

"Your the greatest", Michael told her as he placed the harness around himself.

The Cutlass was 100 feet long and about 50 feet wide with stubby wings near the back for atmospheric flight and three large nozzles for the main and two secondary engines protruding from the back. The laserlances were front mounted looking like rails that ran from the top down the front and long the bottom of the ship. The partitcle accelarater was top mounted and not visible from beneath. Various hatches were visible, these being for the nuclear armament.

Michael waited until Eve had settled herself and then began to winch himself down.

Sailors rush about on the deck, screaming to one another. Some of the men are lowering themselves in lifeboats. The masts lie shattered, their broken forms lying across the deck.

Michael activated his link but Eve anticipated him and her voice boomed out from the ship. "PLEASE REMAIN CALM. ASSISTANCE IS ON THE WAY. THE GENTLEMAN ON HIS WAY DOWN WILL ASSIST YOU INTO THE NETTING SO THAT WE CAN PULL YOU UP. REMAINING CALM WILL ASSIST US IN GETTING EVERYONE TO SAFETY."

The sailor stop running, looking up and awaiting the net.

As Michael touched the deck he started moving toward the net, using the claws to anchor it anywhere he could get purchase. "Okay", he said to everyone in general, "I want the Duchess, woman and children first. Then crew in rank from least to highest. You can probably all get on but lets do this by the numbers."

Beatrice slips out of her cabin. Like all sidhe, she has that radiant beauty that simply defies words, though she is not quite so pretty as her niece. She is dressed casually in red leggins, black boots, and a gold sleeveless tunic. "Actually, I will be leaving last."

Michael didn't seem the least bit surprised or perturbed by this statement, having dealt with the Queen of Dragonsreach for as long as he has. "Alright, all other women, then any children, then crew from lowest ranking to highest", the then turned to the Duchess, "Once the ship is cleared we'll get you in." He then stepped over to the net and reached up, pressing a button. The net seemed to harden, more like a cage, now in strength, rather than a net so as not to tumble everyone together once it began to lift them off. He then moved over to the edge and looked down then returned to the Duchess. He activated the link and placed his right hand to his right ear. To the Duchess he seemed to be talking to himself since the microphone implant and speaker implant were embedded in the skin. "Eve, can you do something to keep this piece of driftwood afloat just a bit longer?"

Beams of light appeared from the large vessel overhead as Eve activated the tractor/repulsor beams. "That gives you a few minutes at best, love." She responded, only Michael hearing her.

"Good", he said out loud, "I don't want to be on this ship to long anyway, I get seasick easy."

In his ear Eve giggled.

One or two women climb into the net, then about three fourths of the crewmen. That's enough for a full load. Her Grace, the officers, and a portion of the crew watch, awaiting their turn with proper discipline.

"Eve", Michael said out loud, "we're full, have Rafe meet them on the deck then lower it again. One more and we're done."

The net rose and disappeared into the ship. Rafe hastened the ships people off then Eve lowered it again. As soon as it was down Michael anchored it again and hit the button. "Okay, last train for Eve's ville, all aboard."

The rest of the sailors crowd on, followed by their officers, in order of rank. Beatrice steps on last, holding onto the rope lightly. "Fascinating device."

"Michael it's going, I can't do anything more," the voice of Eve said in his ear.

"We're set", he said out loud, "take it up."

The net and the harness that Michael wore began to rise toward the vessel as Eve let ship go, the beams disappearing. They rose into the smaller lower hold were the net was let down after the doors closed. Once the net was down completely it softened again. Michael extricated himself from the harness and keyed the link. "Eve..", but he could already feel her accelerating. "On our way to Dragonsreach." Michael grinned, "Love ya babe." Then he stepped over to the Duchess.

"I'm Michael Gassington, Chief of internal security, Highport. This", he said indicating the teenager beside him, "is Rafe. Specialist for President Darius Steele of the Protectorite of Gawdly. He's in Dragonsreach working with Queen Silverlief." Rafe did an awkward bow. "Your aboard Eve. She's a very special vessel." Especially to me, he thought.

"Hello Duchess." The sultry woman's voice seemed to come from everywhere.

Beatrice nods faintly. "Chief Gassington, Specialist Rafe, Eve, nice to meet you." She arches a brow ever so fainrly, studying her before folding her hands in front of her lap and standing motionless, silent, and with no expression to speak of.

A bearded man in a neat, blue jacket and bright red pants steps over. "Thank you for rescuing us."

"Not at all", Michael replies, "think nothing of it. If you would follow me I'll get you out of this stuffy hold." He leads them to a ladder and climbs up. They enter the main hold that is filled with plush carpeting, soft chairs and couching and soft lighting. Michael is looking around the area as though seeing it for the first time.

"As it will be a few hours before we get to Dragonsreach I thought you could all make yourselves comfortable", the female voice said, seeming to come from everywhere at once.

"Remind me to have you decorate my quarters", Michael said, looking around. When the Duchess steps clear of the ladder Michael turns to her, "It makes little difference now, since your ship is deep sixed but theres been trouble in Dragonsreach. They'll most likely assign an honor guard for your stay, though they'll most likely make your stay brief. A terrorist strike has killed over a hundred civilians and there's been an assault on the mansion itself. The Queen has lost three of her own people, including her wife. I think they'll arrange for a ship to take you whereever you need to go next and then return you to Highport for the voyage. If you want to see anything I'm sure they'll arrange it, though you'll need to be guarded." He tilted his head slightly, "Eve..".

"I already have Dragonsreach on the link, they're expecting her. The Queen is arranging the guard as we speak. At present speed we should reach there by dawn."

"Why so long?", Michael asked.

"Well I don't know about you, but I have no desire to rush in and have the dragons bear down on us. They can be a bit testy about people entering the airspace of Dragonsreach."

"Remind me to give you a raise", he said grinning then turned back to the Duchess. "Unless there's something I can answer for you then Rafe and I will return to the cabin."

Beatrice again arches a brow ever so faintly at the manner of address, though she doesn't comment verbally. "Of course." She sits, crossing her legs with natural elegance.

Michael nodded and headed toward the front of the vessel with Rafe in tow.

"Your Grace", came the soft, sultry voice, "I apologize for Michael's lack of protocol. He's accustomed only to dealing with security situations and has no training in dealing with person's of your position. Might I offer you and your crew some refreshments? I fear I'm not familiar with your region but if you provide me some idea of what you consider nourishment then I'm sure I can come up with something."

Beatrice shakes her head slightly. "No thank you, Eve. I am not particularly hungry at the moment."

The captain glances over. "Your Excellency, you wouldn't mind if..."

The Grand Duchess shrugs. "You may request what you wish, Captain."

"I would be honored to serve you Captain, and anyone else, you have but to let me know what you wish. In the meantime, is there anything that I can answer for anyone?"

The captain shakes his head. "Not really. We'll take some beers and some black bread, please, ma'am."

A panel slid open near the Captain. Resting within were the requested items.

After a few hours a panel on front wall became clear and then an image formed. "I thought that you might like to see the city as we approach, Your Grace. This is Kern, Capital of Dragonsreach. It's situated on an a large island in the center center of a great lake. Dragonsreach gets it's name from the older Dragons who come here. The city itself was made from the magic of elvinkind. The crystal that formed the buildings and walls were raised by the rich deposits below the island. The crystals were faceted to catch and refract the light. Quite breathtaking really."

As they approached the city the rising sun set the backdrop to the city. The black, blue, red and orange sky surrounded the yellow sun as it rose over the horizen. The city was filled with myriad colors as the crystal towers caught and refracted the light into rainbow hues.

"Your Grace, I've contacted Dragonsreach intelligence. Due to the unfortunate incidents we'll be met by General Jennifer Jozan. She's the high general of Dragonsreaches forces and direct commander of the Black Dragons, Dragonsreaches and Highports elite fighting force. No further information has been given to me as they wish to keep it secret where you will be kept." There was a moments hesitation, "By the way Your Grace, perhaps you met the former General of Highport, Ian St. James? He's now the diplomatic liason for both Dragonsreach and Highport and is at the court of Resurgent Dream."

Beatrice smiles lightly, looking out over the city. "Beauty is life, Eve. It must be a wonderful place to live. I shall have to visit it in ernest at some point."

Beatrice frowns ever so faintly. "Kept? With all due respect, Eve, I need to hire a ship for the return voyage to the Empire within a day at most. As the missive I sent to your government before the storm indicated, my immediate return is a matter of great urgency. I will, of course, compensate you for the rescue operation."

She shakes her head. "No, I have not met him."

"Your Grace, rest assured that the aquisition of a vessel is already underway. I should think that you shall be leaving here before the next sunrise. We have made this an utmost priority. It may, however, be a few hours and since the mansion itself was attacked the Queen felt it necessary to find a place of safety, and to keep it's location secret. ETA 20 minutes. I hope you will find time to truly visit, there are ancient elven sights here that should really be seen .... May I ask a question Your Grace?"

Beatrice inclines her head gently. "Of course you may."

"Thank you, Your Grace. As you may or may not know I was created as the SSF 21D Cutlass mid range interceptor space craft. Michael took the time to lovingly restore me to the way I was made with his own time, money and bare hands. Recently I was made sentient. In fact I need only take ship form for 4 out of 24 hours each day. But I'm afraid that aside what I have in my data banks I know little about life aside from it's astetic definition. You said .... Beauty is life .... I don't understand. I did run a series of pictures and tested Michaels reaction to each to see which he found pleasing, but I didn't think it was necessary to beautiful to live."

Beatrice pauses a moment, thinking. "It is not a scientific truth. It is part of the code by which we live. Not all embrace it and it may be broken even by its adherents, sometimes."

Eve seemd to think about this for a short time. "May is ask why Michael seemed to have a reaction to you? His temperture, pulse and resperation elevated. Should I be concerned?"

Beatrice shakes her head. "It is normal. You are sentient. Did you have no reaction?"

"I'm in my ship form", Eve replied, "though I'm still sentient it's not the same as my human form. You might say I use neural packs rather than actual biological parts for this form. I guess it's not the same. I'm sorry I can't answer you any better Your Grace, but I'm still learning myself. And about myself," she finished and giggled. "ETA 5 minutes. If everyone would please seat yourselves, for your own safety. Scans don't show any hostiles but it's better if we follow protocol, just in case .... Oh, and Your Grace? Compensation isn't necessary for the rescue, it's part of our jobs." After a moment Eve said, "No offense intended by that statement I assure you."

Beatrice smiles reassuringly as the men take their ships. "None is taken. But compensation is quite necessary given the circumstances."

No response was forthcoming as Eve navigated through the airspace of Dragonsreach. She left the external view for passengers who could see a number of Silver Dragons moving through the skies. The landing pad was quite small and eight figures could be seen standing near it. There was no difference between flight and touchdown as Eve landing herself gently for the benefit of those on board. "We're down. Michael will lead you to the ramp. Thank you for flying air me" she said and giggled again.

Michael entered with Rafe, his face a mask, hiding any emotion. "Duch.." he tilted his head, putting his hand to his ear, "I mean your Grace, if you would follow me?" He led the way to the ramp and walked down.

The eight people approached. Six are in full plate armor, black with a red dragon, diving, breathing fire emblazoned on the chest, all are female. One is a wild elf with a rune carved bow in hand. She is wearing leather armor and has brown hair and doe brown eyes. The last is a human woman, she stand six and half feet tall. She wears only leather shorts and a leather halter top with a mantle cloak thrown back. The barbarian woman carries to bastard swords, one on each hip and a two handed sword strapped to her back. One of the fully armored women step forward and removes her helm. She looks human aside from her golden hair, streaked with silver showing that elvin blood existed somewhere in her lineage.

"Your Grace", the woman said and bowed deeply, "my name is Jennifer Jozan, General of the forces of Dragonsreach. This is Lea Salvies, my second and the Queens First Knight," she indicated a woman who stepped forward and removed her helm. She is stunningly beautiful and obviously drow. "This is Brook Cartmill," she said indicating the barbarian woman. "The others are your honor guard. Welcome to Dragonsreach."

Beatrice nods. "Thank you for having us." Beatrice takes out a sizeable chunk of gold, leaving it on the seat.

Beatrice rises as Michael enter. "Of course." She moves to follow the man down the ramp.

Beatrice inclines her head gently to Jennifer. "It is a pleasure, of course, General..." and turning to Lea "...m'lady." Her eyes linger on Lea a moment appreciatively before she turns back to Jennifer. "I am, indeed, honored. Thank you."

Jenny takes a step back. "Your Grace, if I may impose upon you to make haste. Unfortunetly things are not good in Dragonsreach. Brook will take you in her chariot", she says, pointing to a masterwork chariot of iron wood and gold trim. The wheels on the chariot have sword blades that protrude from the hub, obviously marking it as a war chariot drawn by two horses. Jenny turns to mount her heavy warhorse and mutters to Brook, 'TRY to leave the tires on the cars we pass?' then swings into the saddle of the great destrier, wincing. The others mount up except the wild elf who lopes along with the party as graceful as a deer and as silent as cat.

Jenny nods toward the wild elf, "That's Rayanna Moonbeam, your Grace. She was a former member of the Silent Leaf, the elite border guard of the elven kingdom. She only speaks elven."

Rayanna looks over as she lopes along, seemingly not even winded, "Me spake sitee spake."

Jenny nods, "I stand corrected."

((There's real iron in the chariot?))

OOC - No. It's a wood, but it's as tough as iron, requires someone good with wood and metal working to work it.

"Of course, General." Without wasting another moment, Beatrice steps onto the chariot. "I am at your disposal, Miss Cartmill."

Brook takes up the reigns and looks at the Duchess. "Brook is fine", then she snaps the reigns and gets the horses moving.

Michael stops Jenny and hands her something as he talks to her then returns to the vessel with Rafe.

Jenny rides past the group to the lead position, constantly watching as you move through the streets.

The streets seems to made of packed earth, though on some of the main thorofares theres asphalt. Brook guides the chariot, even at a high speed through the streets with an experts hand and after almost an hour you reach the gates of a large estate with a mansion that can be seen from the street.

The gate guards are dressed similarly to those in the honor guard except that on the right should is a symbol. The symbol is a silver oakleaf. Inside the oakleaf is ball of flame and inside the ball of flame is a closed fist, as though it has punch through the ball. On the leaf, below the ball is one word. DEFENDERS.

When Jenny approaches the gate she nods to them and the guards open them. You ride along a long road to a point in front of the steps leading onto the porch of the house. On the porch are five people aside from the standard guards and as Jenny dismounts, grimacing as she does so, but she points them out to you as you approach.

"That one is President Darius Steele of Gawdly, he's here assisting the Queen in the terrorist investigation as we've only recently begun to move into the more modern equipement." (OOC-Gawdly is away for awhile so I'm running his characters, but I can't remember Steele's description offhand. I'll check the courtship thread if I can find it and see if theres a description there, if so I'll post it.)

"The other man is Baghtru Uth Matar, Captain of the Mansion guard, Rayanna here is his second." She points out the other male on the steps. He is wearing spiked black field plate armor with blood spatters on it. His helm is tucked under his left arm. His fierce looking face has upjutting canines, denoting his half-orc heritage. As Beatrice approaches he can do nothing but stare, his mouth hanging open somewhat.

"The twins", Jenny continues, pointing to two other dark elf women, "are Anestia and Darlinia Darknight." Though lacking the stunning beauty of Lea their ink black drow skin, silver hair and white eyes gives them an exotic quility. The one pointed out as Darlinia looks sad, but stands ramrod straight. "Darlinia is General of the free corps, the second fighting force of Dragonsreach and Highport. Anestia is second in cha...", Jenny stops a moment then continues, "now in charge of intelligence."

She approaches the last woman on the steps and bows deeply. The woman is half-elven with flame red hair and emerald green eyes. She stands about five and half feet tall and her hair reaches almost to the ground, even in the tight double war braid she wears, the steel clamps keeping the braids together and out of her way in case of a fight. She dressed for combat with a light blue tunic, some blood on one sleeve, a sash with the defenders symbol embroidered on it on her right shoulder, soft leather pants for easy movement and soft, doe leather boots for comfort. A sheath hangs in front holding a dagger with yellow flecked metal. One white dragonscale scabbard hangs on her left hip holding a longsword. On her right hip are two scabbards, one black dragonscale scabbard holding a longsword, the other normal leather scabbard holds a short sword. On her back is a red dragonscale scabbard with Silverlief written along its length in embossed silver and holds a longsword. A quiver and an old style double recurve bone bow is also on her back. In her right hand she holds a long staff of gloss black wood with a dragons claw on the top holding a huge diamond. Though she stood tall, one look at her eyes bespoke of a great deal of pain and weariness.

"My liege, may I introduce The Grand Duchess beatrice of Resurgent Dream." Jenny then turns to the Duchess, "Your Grace, Queen Lauralin Silverlief of Dragonsreach."

Lauralin curtseys politely to the Duchess. "I welcome you, Grand Duchess Beatrice, to my nation, and to my home. I truly wish the situation for us both were better, but we do what duty demands. I shall, however set aside those duties for a brief time, until we can get you the vessel you need to return home. I wish I could offer our services, but the situation steals from us the opportunity to assist you as we would like. If you would be so good as to follow me, your things will be seen to by the guards. Your in time to break fast with us."

Beatrice nods slightly. "As you wish...Brook. It is nice to meet you."

She rides the rest of the way, nodding at each of Jennifer's introductions. When the queen is introduced, she curtseys deeply, holding it for a three-count. "I would not wish to impose. Your Majesty is too gracious." She smiles a little, moving to follow Lauralin.

Lauralin led the way to the door and stood to one side while allowing everyone in. She scanned the grounds as she nodded to those entering, then took one last look around before entering herself. "Why do you bother to look?", Brook asked, "You know when someone enters the grounds."

"There are those who can mask themselves." Lauralin faced everyone in the foyer, "If you please, the sitting room is over there," she said pointing toward one open doorway, "I do not allow weapons into the dining and breakfast rooms." She made her was to the sitting room, removing her own weapons along with the others while Brook entered the breakfast room armed.

Baghtru looked at Lauralin, "Are you going to say anything to her?"

"Do YOU want argue with her?"

Baghtru snorted, "I'm not the brightest person around but I'm not crazy."

Lauralin nodded, "Well neither am I."

After everyone removed thier weapons Lauralin led the way to the breakfast room where Brook was already sitting. "If everyone will sit, I shall have the food soon." Lauralin turned and gently placed her hand on Darlinia's cheek, "If you wish to be excused, I would understand."

Darlinia shook her head, "We've both lost spouses, my place is at your side, as always."

Lauralin smiled, though it was still tinged with saddness, and kissed Darlinia on the cheek, "And I would have you nowhere else." She exited the breakfast room and Darlinia looked at the others who were waiting for the Duchess to choose her seat.

Beatrice merely follows all of this silently. She sits, crossing her ankles without ado. "Thank you for your hospitality, Your Majesty."

As the others take thier seats, Michael appears in the doorway with lovely human woman with brown wavy hair. When he enters Darlinia stands up, "What do you want here?"

Jennifer stands and looks at Darlinia, "Stand down, General, now is not the time."

"You know his opinion of the Queen. She has enough problems without his snide...."

"I SAID STAND DOWN GENERAL!"

Darlinia glares at Michael remaining silent for moment. "Yes Ma'am", she replies and leaves the room. Jennifer turns to Lea, "You are relieved of duty for the meantime, see to your sister-in-law."

Lea stands up, "But Jen, I'm fine, really."

Jenny turns to Lea, cupping her cheek in an unprecedented display of emotion for the normally taciturn General. "I'm sure your handling it beloved, but I'll need Darlinia and she needs family. Your the closest she has."

Lea nods and stops on her way out to curtsey to the Grand Duchess before continuing. The problems of the military lifted from her shoulders, for now allows the tears for the loss of her brother to rise into her eyes. She blinks and quickly turns away from the Grand Duchess and makes her way out.

"Perhaps I should go", Michael says as he takes the woman's hand.

"No", Jennifer replies in a cold voice, "I think the Queen would want you to stay, regardless of your personal opinion of what she is."

Rayanna sits off to one side, preferring to be alone, and watches the proceedings quietly.

"Well", Michael says, "This is Eve."

Eve curtsey's politely to all assembled and smiles at the Duchess.

A moment later the lilting, hauntingly beautiful voice of the Queen can be heard singing a mournful lament and the smell of food cooking makes the mouth water. Eventually Lauralin, herself, starts brining in the food and serving everyone, cocking an eyebrow slightly at the sight of Michael but smiling politely. Darius tries to make conversation but finds it difficult. Rayanna just looks at him, though she tries to respond to him, finding it difficult to form responses or even understand. The subtle difference between the universal common and the regional common foiling her attempts to interpret him. The General rebuffs him out of hand again. Brook answers but it's clear she's not used to royalty and the conversation is quickly dropped due to her untactful use of language, though it's clear that the Queen puts up with it because Brook would willingly give her life for her and has once before. Baghtru struggles a bit with protocol and though he wouldn't do well in a court, he does well enough for the casual conversation, mentioning a 'star wheel' pistol that he had found on one of his adventures with Laura and wondering if Darius could get it working for him some time. Anestia seems interested in Darius and smiles at him often. Lauralin, once all the food and beverages are served, takes her seat. She can't seem to keep her own eyes off the Duchess and seems rather embarrassed about it.

"I truly am sorry for the state of things for this, your first visit, to my nation. I hope you will try to visit again when we both are in better situations. I have not had the time to study your people, I hope the food is to your liking." Her food consists of seven different courses with anything from soup to salad to fruit to meats. The wine she chose for the Duchess is Elven Wine. Light but good she hoped it was a good choice for the Sidhe.

Beatrice remains largely silent through all of this. Her eyes follow the troubled people with a look of sympathy but she restrains herself from commenting. A stranger involving herself would only make it work. She nods a little to Lauralin's comment. "Do not worry yourself on my account, Your Majesty. Your hospitality honors me deeply." She gives the queen a small but sincere smile.

Lauralin smiles at Beatrice, "Please, call me Lauralin. Can you tell me something about your people?" Lauralin eats very little during the breakfast, mostly sipping rich red liquid from a wine glass.

Beatrice nods a little. "As you wish, You...Lauralin." The informality sounds forced and uncomfortable. "The Empire contains over a hundred races of fae as well as many humans. My sister rules it from her capital in Tarana but it is divided into six kingdoms. Each of these kings and queens is her vassal."

"If calling me by my given name is uncomfortable then you do not have to. So are you a monarchy or strictly a matriarchy?" Her voice thickly accented with elvish, giving it a musical quality.

Beatrice pauses. "We are a fully feudal society, Your Majesty. For most citizens, it is to their local baron that their allegiance lies."

"And then the Baron is loyal to the King or Queen. I really should think about that. It would take some of the pressure off of me." Lauralin looked around the room and seeing everyone finished, stood up. "Let us adjourn to the sitting room", she said then looked at the Duchess, "I should be receiving word of your conveyance very soon."

Beatrice laughs lightly. "Well, ultimately. But there are more levels to it than that. There's about nine people between my sister and the average citizen." She rises. "Let's." Graciously, she follows Lauralin to the sitting room.

Lauralin leads the way to the sitting room, as she enters the logs in the fireplace begin to burn. She sets her glass down and pours another glass of elven wine for the Duchess, setting it by her on a table, then picks up her own and takes a seat. "I'm sorry if I seem a bit naive about the workings of things, I was not raised by my father, nor was he born to royalty. Tell me, if you would, how did the courtship ball go? I had to depart before it's end."

Beatrice sits, crossing her long legs with a light smile. "My niece gave her hand to Lord Phaeton Draconis, Emperor of Akaton."

Lauralin watches the Duchess then shakes her head and looks up to meed the Duchess' eyes. "Draconis", Lauralin said, sipping at the thick red liquid, "I should like to speak with him again. We did not have time at the ball. His name intrigued me, being from a kingdom where dragons are prevalent. I would apologize again for my actions there, I sought only to assist."

Beatrice tilts her head a little, arching a brow. "What actions, Your Majesty?"

"Oh", Lauralin said, "I assumed you would have known. There was an altercation in which I stepped forward to try to resolve, as did father. I fear we moved before thinking. It was not our place to intercede."

The others entered and Anestia stepped forward, "Pardon the intrusion, the ship is in Highport. But....We have a problem."

Lauralin set down her glass and stood up, "What problem?"

"The iron ring are attacking a town south of here."

"Curious", Lauralin replied, her brows drawing together, "they have never been so bold as these past couple of days."

General Jozan stepped forward, "I'll take a contingent and deal with them, then I'll return to take the Duchess to the ship."

Lauralin didn't respond at first but then turned to face Jenny. "No. You will prepare the carriage, the one with the drapes on the windows for security..."

"The one you NEVER use?" The General asked.

"Precisely. It is appropriate for the Duchess, yes? Her people will be provided horses and you will ride northwest to the old Sidhe ruins. From there you can head west through Deryn and to the coast, the ship can pick them up there."

The General looked at Lauralin, "My Liege, I don't think now is the time for a sightseeing tour."

"Nor do I, but, the Duchess being Sidhe, it would only seem right that she would wish to see them. Of course she will not be with you." Lauralin turned to Anestia, "Get the Duchess a cloak with a cowl, you will ride with her to Highport. There she get on the ship and then they will swing around and pick up the rest of her people."

Anestia smiled, "So while they're looking at her people and full compliment of soldiers the Duchess gets away, Nice. I'll see to it."

Lauralin nodded and turned back to Jenny, "The attack I shall deal with myself."

"My Liege, I MUST protest."

"Of course you must, but when has that stopped me. Dar is not condition and Lea is little better off. Baghtru I'll send with you, he is typically in an important position, this will bolster that belief, Brook will be with me. I'll take Sam and a Squad and deal with this matter, please send for the Master Sergeant immediatly."

"This is a combat situation, my Liege, I don't..."

Lauralin stepped forward to confront the General, "Though I appreciate your concern, you must remember that I was an adventurer who many time traveled alone and best in small group, always dealing with difficult situations. I've led forces in battle as well, all before I was Queen. I lead by example GENERAL and if I wish my people to FIGHT the they shall do so at MY SIDE, NOT while look on from the safety of this mansion. Do I make myself CRYSTAL clear?"

"Crystal", the General replied, though obviously still not happy about it. "I'll see to the preperations. Shall I send a squad of the Griffon riders?"

"Yes", Lauralin replied, "and please ask Silverfang to carry me. I think a dragon will do wonders to this task."

The General nodded and left with Baghtru while Brook took a position behind Lauralin. Anestia curtseyed to Laura, "I'll get that cloak."

Lauralin nodded and Anestia left, then she turned to Darius, "I'll ask you to come with me, I would like these men questioned." Darius nodded, "Of course."

Lauralin then returned her attention to the Duchess, "I regret that this visit is to be so shortlived, I hope we can visit again."

Beatrice listens quietly to the whole exchange, nodding when Lauralin turns to her. "I hope so as well, Your Majesty, under better circumstances."

Lauralin smiles at that and nods, "To be sure." She turns and picks up the wineglass, her anger still evident. In her fury she forgets to hide the eyeteeth and slip from thier gumsheaths as she downs the rest of the blood in the glass, making sure that the bloodthirst won't come upon her in the upcoming battle. The General returns with Master Sergeant Ravitz. He is a human almost seven feet in height and well muscled. He wears the typical armor of the black dragons and carrys a huge two-headed war axe. The shaft is scaled like a dragon and pointed at the bottom for thrusting, the blades look like dragon heads gouting flames forming jagged but sharp edges. He nods readiness as Anestia enters with the Duchess' cloak, handing it to her with a bow. Lauralin curtseys to the Duchess then steps forward. She places her right hand over own heart and her left over the Duchess'. "May the gods stand between you and harm in all the empty places that you must travel, until we meet again." She then lowers her hand heads toward the door, the Master Sergeant and the General in tow.

"When you're prepared Duchess", Anestia says respectfully.

Beatrice takes the cloak. She curtsies to Lauralin as she speaks, placing her own hand over her heart. "May the gods guide her steps and shield your path, Queen." She watches the elf leave before placing the cloak on. "I am ready." She moves to follow Anestia.

Anestia leads the way outside where the Queen is already mounting a huge silver dragon. With a nod to the Duchess the Queen and a squad of Griffon riders take to the air. The General heads out with a compliment of Black Dragon soldiers and Baghtru while Anestia takes the Duchess to the stable where two horses are waiting. The Duchess' is a large black destrier while Anestia approaches her own horse. The horse is also large and black but with deeply intelligent eyes. It's hooves seem to burn the ground where it stands and it snorts flames.

"So we're off again?" The horse asks.

"No rest for the wicked, flamefoot, you should know that", Anestia replies grinning.

"And this is?" the horse asks nodding his head toward the Duchess.

"The Duchess Beatrice of Resurgent Dream, show some respect." With that she swings into the saddle and rides out ahead of the Duchess.

Beatrice swings up on her own horse, sitting side saddle. She takes the reins and rides after Anestia.

General Jozan rode to the Sidhe ruins and past toward Deryn, stopping briefly 2 or 3 times during the day. Just outside the city of Deryn near nightfall she called a halt and turned towards the ship captain of the Resurgent vessel, "We camp here. I don't want to risk entering the city." It was a statement given in an ice cold tone to the man. She looked over toward a Captain, "Bring the wagon to the center, have the Resurgent Dream people set up around it. We'll form the outer perimeter" she told her as she dismounted, wincing as she did so, "sleep in two hour shifts twenty five sleeping, seventy five on watch, Questions?" The woman shook her head and turned her horse issuing the orders. Everything was set up in a span of about twenty minutes and meals were cooked. The General saw to the positioning of the guards and returned to the Captain of Resurgent Dream, "Have your people sleep, we'll handle any situation that arises."

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Lauralin flew south, Darius sharing the large dragon saddle and kept low, her preternatural vision picking out things that no normal vision could. She checked the four of the towns south of Dragonsreach before nightfall and then called a halt for the night.

"Curious, I see no signs of an enemy anywhere and no obvious indication of a strike force. Tomorrow", she said addressing the Master Sergeant and the other Griffon riders, "we begin searching caves, clefts, anything that might hide a force. Until then turn in, I shall watch over us." Not a man questioned her, they simply pitched tents and turned in.

Brook sat running a wet stone over one of her swords, no indication of any fear, only anticipation of the coming battle. "You should turn in", Laura told her.

"You should too", was Brooks reply, "I'll take first watch and wake you."

"I am supposed to give the orders here Brook", Laura said as she sat down wearily.

"And you did", Brook came back, "I'm simply not following them. You've not slept in days. Grab my sack and get some rest, I won't let anything happen to you."

Lauralin smiled at Brook, "I know you won't. I don't suppose it would do any good to argue with you."

"Have you tried before?" Brook asked.

"Yes, I have, actually."

Brook looked at Laura, only kindness on her face. "Did you win?"

Lauralin arched her eyebrows and tilted her head grinning, "No."

Brook nodded, "Then why bother trying?"

Lauralin looked up at Darius, "The amazing logic of the barbarian."

"Yeah", Brook replied, going back to sharpenig her sword, "There are those in the house who drink blood, those who eat things that are still moving and one that will eat ANYthing that doesn't eat him first, and I'M the barbarian." She looked up at the stars "Thank you for small favors.", then went back to her sword.

Lauralin stood up grinning, "Good night Brook, wake me at midnight."

Brook nodded, not looking up.

Lauralin looked at Darius, "You can remain awake or catch some sleep yourself, as you see fit." She stepped forward and hugged him tightly then turned away, grabbing Brooks sack and moved close to one of the low burning fires.

Brook looked up at Darius, "She's taking to you. Hurt her and I don't care how advanced you are, I'll kill you", then she returned to sharpening her blade.

Darius eyed the barbarian woman. He could probably kill her easily, then again... He smiled and nodded, "noted", then went to the fire and lay down close to the Laura.

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

Anestia rode hard through the day, not bothering to stop. "We can make it to the border fort by nightfall if we ride straight through", she told the Duchess. Sure enough, by nightfall the fort came into view.

"Lady Darknight", the man said bowing as she entered the gateway.

"Report, anything amiss?"

"No, My Lady."

"This is the Duchess Beatrice from Resurgent Dream, see to her needs, we leave at daybreak."

The man nodded and took the reigns of the Duchess Horse, bowing to her as he did so. "Your Grace, may I offer you food? Drink? It's not the best there is but it certainly tastes fine after a long ride."

The captain bristles lightly, nodding and looking to his men. They all obey, setting up camp.

Beatrice leaps from her horse. "I would have meat and bread, with your best wine, if that's alright."

The man passes the horse to one of the guards. "If you would follow me Your Grace", he says bowing as Anestia dismounts. "Lady Darknight?

"I'll have the same."

He nods, "If you would both follow me."

They are lead into a mess hall and then off to a smaller room reserved the command staff. "I hope this will suffice, it's the most private eating area we have." He pulls out two chairs and looks at the Duchess and Anestia. Anestia looks at the Duchess waiting for her to sit.

"While your eating I'll see to getting you rooms."

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

Brooks wakes Laura at midnight and the rest of the night passes uneventfully. At dawn the search continues. By the end of the day nothing is found.

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

The General gets everyone moving early and rides past the city then on toward the coast. Another day of riding brings them to the shore and camp is set up as before to await the arrival of the ship.

Beatrice sits, crossing her legs and smiling lightly.

Dinner is brought and rooms are prepared. The rooms are small and bunks are provided. The Captain in charge of the fort apologizes to both ladies and Anestia laughs in reply. "I've led mercenaries for more than four times your apparent age, have no fear for my comfort." She then bids the Duchess good night, bowing deeply and heads to her room.

The next morning breakfast is provided and the Duchess horse is brought. "Your Grace if your for Highport, your about a day and half to two days out", the fort Captain offers to the Duchess, obviously taken with her.

"One", Anestia says as she mounts.

"One? That's not possible."

"One", Anestia replies. "I'll be going through the hills of Tulhanna."

The man pales a bit, "Lady I would recommend against this action."

"Oh?" Anestia asks, "And why might that be?"

"They're haunted. The city of Tulhanna and it's final demise are still played out. Her riders still scour the hills."

"Ahhh", Anestia leans forward on the saddle, "But you forget that there are more dangerous things in those hills than that."

"There is?" he asks.

"Yes, Me."

The man steps away from Anestia, obviously afraid and simply turns to open the gates.

"Anestia gestures to the Duchess. Come, Your Grace, we are almost there."

Beatrice smiles half-flirtatiously at the captain, climbing onto her horse. She listens quietly to the conversation, trotting out behind Anestia. "Of course, lady."

Morning passes into afternoon as they ride and Anestia seems quieter than usual, her hand slipping down from time to time to the empty scabbard on her left hip. The blade in the right scabbard seems a burden at times as she shifts it into a more comfortable position.

They just crest a hill at mid-afternoon when they're surrounded suddenly by six large creatures. The creatures are nine feet tall at the shoulders with lion-like bodies. They're front claws are are like vultures taloned feet but razor sharp and the head the pokes out from the mane is that of a vulture with a large sharp beak. Anestia slides from her horse and looks around at the creatures, each one bearing a rider. One man dismounts and approaches Anestia as she looks down at the empty scabbard. The man looks at the two smiling crookedly, "Hey look, two for the price of one. This one here should be a fine tumble."

Cat quick Anestia draws her off-hand blade, a pure black sword etched with blood red runes, glowing with dark pulsing light. The headless corpse stands for a few seconds before it seems to realize it's dead and tumbles to the ground. "How fine was that tumble?" Anestia asks the bodiless head.

One of the men clap at her performance and dismounts. "You must be .... Anestia Darknight." He says as he approaches. He turns and bows to the Grand Duchess, keeping a safe distance from the Dark Knight of the evil Goddess of Lolth. "Greetings Your Grace, my apologies for interrupting your journey but my master wishes to have words with you. Shadowspawn will be disappointed if you refuse, therefore we're here to see that you don't."

"Shadowspawn", Anestia nearly spits out the name, tell your master he will be disappointed.

"My men will take the Duchess, while you and I fight a duel of honor. I challenge you Anestia Darknight to combat", and with that he removes his gauntlet tossing it to her feet.

"Not, I think, today. I have business to attend to."

"Well, that's a pity. It's a shame to see that your honor is as empty as the scabbard that once held your holy blade, before you fell from grace." He replied. "I guess it's true that a Dark Knight is completely without the grace of honor."

Anestia removes her helm, her face filled with fury, "You will PAY for your words." She bends over to pick up the gauntlet and quickly one of the men whips up a long tube, a dull 'phoot' is herd as he breaths harshly into it and a dart apears in Anestia's neck. Quickly she drops to the ground as the rest of the men surround the Grand Duchess.

"You will come with us. Conscous or not is your choice." The man who had challeneged Anestia says as he picks up his gauntlet and looks at the Duchess.

"What about her", the man asks pointing at Anestia.

"Leave her, she will tell them about our abduction and to whom she believes we will take her. Enos Yorl will be pleased." The man looks at the Duchess again, "So what will it be your Grace?"

Beatrice arches a brow, rearing back. "You cannot keep me unconscious indefinitely!"

"Of course we can't, Your Grace. That's what the cell is for. Then we put you to sleep for the voyage. You're worth quite a bit you know. My Master can do quite a bit with the money your worth. Now, last time," he says looking at the man with the tube as loads another dart, "will come willingly? Or unconscious."

((Check your telegrams, hun.))

Return telegram sent, love.

She frowns. "I will come willingly." She starts to guide the horse, its saddle bags laden with her belongings, towards the men. "Lead the way, please."

The man smiles and steps forward. "Your hands, please, Your Grace, Not that I don't trust you, but I know how your peole like to be forfront in any given situation. You like to lead by example. And I have known women who can be quite formidable." he nods towards Anestia. "Of course you realize I could never have beaten her. So Please, Your Grace, your hands."

Beatrice looks him over. "If I were going to fight you, I would have done so already. Besides, how am I to guide my horse without the use of my hands?"

"Your horse will be dinner for the vulture lions, you'll ride with me. Your HANDS, GRAND Duchess."

"And what of my things?" She dismounts, offering her hands, palms together, in front of her.

He ties her hands together, tight, but not too tight. He nods to one of the men behind her and suddenly a hood is thrown over her head. She's lifted and put across the back of one of the vulture lions. Someone mounts and the man who had been speaking says, "Your things? I don't think my employer will like you having on even the clothes you possess." With that the great beast begins to move.

Beatrice grunts slightly as he ties her hands. Inwardly, she smiles as they're tied in the most escapable position, however tight. She moans as the hood is pulled over her head. "Mpphgg!"

The man shifts her position on the saddle so she's more comfortably in front of her. After what seems like several hours she's removed and walked for some time in what seems like a tunnel. Then the footsteps of the man fades away, leaving her alone.

Beatrice immediately sets to work on her ropes, digging at them with her elegant fingers.

As she works at them they suddenly fall away, leaving her hands free.

She reaches up, removing her hood and looking swiftly around.

A long table sits in this cave like room. The candleabras placed along the wall contain black candles that pop and sizzle. The smell of burning flesh is evident as the candles burn the human fat wax. A throne sits at the far end of the room where a hooded figure sits. The limbs in the arms of the robe seem oddly jointed and the place where hands should be are pincers. The robed figure sits, looking at the Duchess, it's eyes seeming to roam over her.

She sighs. "I suppose it was to much to hope that I had been left alone. Who are you and what do you want of me?"

The figure sits for a moment before speaking. The language is made out though the throat it comes from obviously wasn't made for the tongue.

"You must have been born to nobility. You're arrogant and self assured. What I want and the reason your here will become obvious all to soon. But first, we'll have a bit of fun." That said the Duchess clothes vanish. "Ahhh, MUCH better."

((Even her boots?))

She moves her hands to cover her bare breasts, crossing her legs at the finely muscled thighs.

((tg))

(Everything, boots and all, was there anything magical on her?)

He watches her attempt at modesty. "Hopefully soon I'll be able to enjoy you fully. This form just isn't appropriate to the occasion, though some I have to take might be .... interesting."

She glares. "You mean you intend to rape me. I am a Grand Duchess. This slight will be avenged a hundred fold."

"Yes I do intend that. But don't worry about the retribution. I've been threatened with such before. Only one has succeeded in any kind of revenge. My master didn't appreaciate my attentions toward his wife." The form alters, becoming more human and stands up, "There, much better for what I have in mind."

Beatrice backs away. "Please...you don't have to do this. I can pay you."

He chuckles, "Oh, but my dear, I'm already being paid. Imagine it, I get paid to have my way with you. I couldn't have brokered a better deal if I had tried. And besides, do you have ANY idea how hard it is to get a woman, even one I pay for, with my form altering constantly?" Suddenly her boots reappear on her feet, but they seem attached to the floor and won't come off, or allow her to move as he advances.

She strains her muscled legs, tugging on her boots. Then, she smirks. "You do realize that you glued me to the floor with my legs crossed, don't you?"

He laughs at the comment. "You do realize how easy that is to fix." A chair slides in behind her as a great weight pushes her down. The boots slide apart from each other staying attached to the floor. Then the chair slides back until it's almost to her lower back. "I wouldn't want to miss anything in my enjoyment now would I?"

She falls back, groaning faintly. "I can pay you not to rape me in addition to the price you're getting for my abduction."

"Did you know that in this region the Sidhe have been estinct for longer than the oldest elf can remember? You must realize", he says as he moves between her knees and rans his hands up her legs, "what a privlage this is. I'm not really doing this abduction for the money, I have more than I could possibly ever use. I'm doing this for just this part of it."

Beatrice pales a little. "From what I know of your legends, I don't think I'm actually the same kind of sidhe. Besides, there is no glory in this. Wouldn't courting and winning a sidhe give you greater pleasure?"

He leans forward, her mouth unable to move and runs his finger up her ear, "No winning one that way would be tedious. This is so much more fun, don't you think?" He leans away, as soon as she's out of biting range she can move her mouth again.

She shakes her head. "It is not more fun for me. At least use chain instead of magic. It hurts less."

"No my dear, I prefer magic, it's much more reliable. Besides, I'm in this for MY enjoyment. But", he says running a finger down her sternum, "I WILL give a choice of which one I will START with. Three choices, do you have a preference?"

Beatrice frowns. "If I try to escape my bonds, you can use magic then. Please, you're going to steal my innocence and sell me into slavery forever. This is small as last requests go."

"Oh I've had many last requests", he says, his hand lingering on her chest, "I've granted none of them." He reaches up and removes his robe. The man you see is in his late twenties with brown hair. The only odd feature is a deep cleft between his eyebrows. "So no preference on where I start?"

((TG))

Beatrice trembles. "My mouth...but...but...please, it's such a small thing to..." She shrugs and concentrates, her magics swelling around her, unweaving the other magics. He's a greater sorcerer than her. She can't win at this, which is why she didn't try but she does free herself for the moment, jumping up demonstrably. "I can resist your magic better than your chain."

"Of course you can, your a creature of magic." He holds up his hand as agony courses through her body. "But there is a price for your defiance. This is only a small sample of the pain I can produce. BECAUSE you are magical it is MUCH more effective." The pain continues for several minutes and then she finds herself in the chair in the same position she started. "Besides", he says, "I am wanted by many. So this pocket dimension which I have created is the perfect hiding place. It's not connected to the material plane until I wish it. If I die, then so does this place, and all within."

Beatrice glares, grimacing at the pain. "You are wrong. My people can travel the Otherspace between worlds. So, please, just give me chains. I will not raise another demand during my captivity or resist further in any way. I swear."

"I would welcome your people with the same acceptance as the others, presently all demised. Hmmm, no resistance. He nodded, that would make things much better." He took four of the silken curtain ties and tied them in so as to hold her in place, then removed the magical bindings. "Now to begin."

Beatrice: It seems you have me at your mercy. Though, my promise was about chains.

Enos Yorl: That is of little concern.

Enos Yorl: He looks her over, as though considering.

Beatrice: It is of concern to me.

Enos Yorl: You seem to think I care.

Beatrice: I think humiliating and dominating my mind and spirit appeal to you as much as taking my body.

Enos Yorl: He makes a gesture and drow lingerie appears on her. Made of silk of the underground worms it feels like satin, with an almost elctrify feel. It's sheer, not hiding anything, only worn for the feeling.

Enos Yorl: "Domination is an art, my dear.

Beatrice: Thank you for the garment.

Enos Yorl: "It has a pleasant feel, does it not?"

Beatrice: Not so pleasant as freedom/

Enos Yorl: A tantalizing texture for both partners.

Enos Yorl: He chuckles.

Beatrice: We are not partners. I am your victim.

Enos Yorl: "Freedom is something I haven't known anything about in a very long time."

Beatrice: It is something I remember.

Enos Yorl: His pleasant visage grows dark, "THAT is something that will change very soon."

Beatrice: That makes little sense. The memory makes slavery more humiliating and more bitter. I thought you would like that.

Enos Yorl: "I would, if I were keeping you."

Enos Yorl: "But that job will rest on anothers shoulders.

Beatrice: If you are selling me to one from my homeland, I am sure they wish my memory intact.

Enos Yorl: He smiles, "Oh it will be intact when I give you to them."

Beatrice: Can we get this over with?

Enos Yorl: "Tell me, what is it you wanted with that bitch queen?" He voice gets cold when he mentions her.

Beatrice: Nothing. My shipwrecked.

Enos Yorl: "You were on your way to her to begin with, your people need you back. I have many contacts."

Beatrice: I was on my way to the country. I tried to keep foreign leaders from meeting with me on my vacation. They insisted on it.

Enos Yorl: "INSISTED!? That bitch has foiled me at EVERY turn and you EXPECT me to believe that this was a COINCIDENCE!?"

Beatrice: It doesn't matter what you believe.

Enos Yorl: Enos closes his eyes a second then opens them. "You're right my dear. When this is over, I won't have to worry about you consorting with her."

Beatrice: You don't know.

Enos Yorl: He smiles stepping forward. Slowly he slips his fingers into her hair, his excitement evident. "You really think your government will allow you are any of the others to deal with her or her father", he says that sneering the word, "after they're responsible for your abduction?"

Beatrice: I doubt you'll be able to blame them, though I doubt they'll be able to blame you either.

Beatrice: Starting with the mouth, still?

Enos Yorl: "They can't blame me, Nalkin saw to that when he knocked out the Dark Mistress. But THEY will go to YOUR government and take responsibility for your abduction. They take anything that happens in thier nations to heart."

Enos Yorl: "Oh yes, the mouth first"

Beatrice: It won't matter.

Enos Yorl: "Little matter. It would be a bonus"

Enos Yorl begins tormenting the duchess, taking his time, savoring the moments.

Enos Yorl: He steps back, his eyes becoming darker.

Beatrice: What now?

Enos Yorl: His face becomes contorted with fury and he holds out his hand, pain wracking her body.

Beatrice: *Grits her teeth*

Enos Yorl: He turns toward the creature "Bring me that FOOL!"

Beatrice: What fool?

Enos Yorl: The pain sharpens.

Beatrice: What?

Enos Yorl: It continues while the creature is gone. When it returns with the man who had challeneged Anestia, Enos Yorl confronts him.

Enos Yorl: "WHERE WERE YOU WHEN YOU TOOK HER!?"

Beatrice: *Tenses and counterweaves it*

Enos Yorl: Suddenly she's slammed against the throne.

Beatrice: She grunts with the impact.

Enos Yorl: Enos Yorl stares at her and gestures toward her again the pain returning, a burning pain this time, different from the last and far worse.

Beatrice: *Counterweaves again*

Enos Yorl: "The the Tulhanna low hills."

Beatrice: I'm not trying to escape.

"Youuuuu IDIOT!" Enos Yorl yells, his eys now dead black. "Do you realize what you've DONE?! You have involved the KING."

"Surely you can deal with one man, my liege", Nalkin replies.

"ONE MAN? He is no mere MAN FOOL! He is the AVATAR. The representative of a GOD!"

Nalkin looks at Enos, obviously confused as Enos gestures. Nalkin suddenly screams as his blood turns to flames and he becomes consumed in the inferno his master creates. Enos then turns to the creature and gestures and Beatrice is grabbed by it and pulled to her feet, held tightly in both arms. Enos begins to pace, muttering about the king.

Beatrice waits quietly, shivering a little in the cold.

Enos calls for a guard, not noticing Beatrice. "Go to the meeting, tell them that Nalkin was killed abducting their prize. Tell them that the conditions are met." The man walks away quickly after glancing at the still burning flesh that was Nalkin.

Beatrice turns to him. "Can I have something to wear for the trip? It is rather cold out. I'm sure your buyer wouldn't want me to die of pnemonia."

Enos Yorl glares at the Dutchess. "You still don't realize do you? I don't care what others wish." He raises his hands and icy blast of cold blows through the chamber. The temperature drops quickly. He stands, seemingly unaffected by the bitter cold, the creatures equally unaffected.

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The day is spent searching every crevice, crack and fissure that Lauralin and her people can find, but no evidence of a force can be found. That evening Lauralin addresses her people. "I intend for us to head back to the city. You have all done exceptionally well under the circumstances but it seems obvious that this was a setup. Someone wanted us away from the city and I fear the worst. I ask you to ride with me, tired though you all must be."

Sam looked at the men who simply mounted the griffons again then turned back to Lauralin. "We're ready my Liege. Lead on." Then he mounts his own griffon and awaits the Queen.

Brook hops up on her griffon. She looks over at Laura, "Let's get back."

Lauralin smiles at her then at Darius, "They give me honor, and make me proud."

Darius looks at Lauralin, feeling warmed by her smile. "They have a good role model", he replies, then walks with her to the dragon and mounts it. She takes to the air, her people following her.

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General Jozan sends out scouts regularly, keeping an eye on the surrounding terrain. The ship doesn't arrive during that day and by nightfall she's taken to pacing again. As the soldiers begin thier watches she stands up from a dinner she's barely touched, wincing again as she does so.

"Captain!"

"Ma'am", the captain runs over quickly.

"Keep an eye on the water, if the ship doesn't arrive by late morning we return to Dragonsreach. Something is wrong, Captain, I can feel it."

"Yes Ma'am!" The Captain salutes sharply issuing the orders to the men while Jenny begins pacing again.

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Michael runs the results of the pendant analysis again, finding the same results. Trevor walks over to him and looks at him and Eve. "What's up Chief?" Rafe sits back, listening.

"It doesn't feel right Trev. Something's wrong about all this. Nothing fits together. You know how the Iron Ring operates. Anonymity is thier salvation. So what the hell is going on?"

Trevor nods at the Chiefs words. He was right. The Iron Ring had never been so bold.

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Anestia awakens to the dawns light, getting groggily to her feet. "Damn Shadowspawn."

Flamefoot looks at her, "It wasn't Shadowspawn, it was Enos Yorl. The idiot who challenged you told the Duchess who his master was after you were knocked out. He didn't realize that I was intelligent."

"Enos Yorl. Damned mage. How can we locate him?"

"That's not an easy task, not until the gateway is opened, then I can sense it. But depending where he is it may disappear before we can get there."

Anestia approaches Flamefoot and mounts. "We'll deal with that, when you sense it, let me know. In the meantime lets get back to Dragonsreach so I can let the others know. We ride straight through, no resting."

Beatrice arches a brow. "If you don't care if you get paid or not, why are you bothering?"

"For the pure pleasure of it." he replies leering at her. "The money is a bonus for defiling you."

Beatrice shrugs. "Still, you've done that already. Pointless cold is not worth losing your bonus."

Yorl stepped forward grabbing the Dutchess but the throat and lifting her with unprecedented strength for his size. "I don't have TIME for your royal snobbery. I have greater concerns." He throws her across the room to impact against one of the creatures who grabs her. "Take the slut below."

The creatures grabs her and takes her down a tunnel. Membranes cover holes in the walls. The creature enters one of the membranes, the mucous like fluid covering the Duchess. The creature drops her and moves back through, the membrane hardening to rock after it steps through. Nothing is in the room and there looks to be no other exit.

She shrugs. "It's not snubbery. It's simple reason. Think about your plans some." She doesn't lose composure, walking quietly with the creature. When she's left in her cell, she sits quietly on the floor.

Hours pass, then the wall becomes a membrane and Yorl enters. He carries a tray of food and sets it down in front of Beatrice. "That bitch queen is a vampiress you know. Would you truly consort with her?"

((What kind of food?))

She rolls her eyes. "I'm not her consort. My ship wrecked."

(Most likely nothing she would eat. Worms, various grubs, lethargic but living rats.)

Yorl leans forward, "So I guess you will tell me that you have no idea of the weaknesses of her vampiric line." He looks at the Duchess and gestures. The drow lingerie appears on her again and she can feel the room begin to heat up. "You know that vampires are evil. I could destroy her if I knew the weaknesses of the line. Tell me and I'll return you to your family."

Beatrice sighs lightly, ignoring the food. "If you know anything about my line, then you know that Gwydion do not lie under any circumstances. I do not know anything about her line, nor do I have any but the most passing aquaintance with the woman."

"Actually I neither know anything nor do I give a damn about your line. You were coming to meet her, and your ship got destroyed. The second doesn't change the fact of the first."

"I was on vacation. I, at no point, requested to meet with a single leader. I preferred not to do so. They took it upon themselves to meet me. Well, at leasdt you have dropped this idiotic pretense that I belong to this non-related race from your prehistory."

"Similar races developed differently. How or why is of no concern to me." he moved toward where the doorway appears, "You will soon be in the hands of your slavers."

Beatrice nods. "That is welcome news."

The Delivery Instructions:
"Deliver the Grand Duchess to the cove of Marlthorough by ship. She is to be restrained and silenced but otherwise dressed and treating according to her station."

Yorl steps through the membrane that appears. After passing through it turns back to solid rock.

Beatrice simply waits. The nearness of delivery to the buyer frees her from worry that she'll need to eat what they feed her here to survive.

Lauralin arrives at the mansion and drops down from the dragon. "You men get some sleep, tell the others to increase their patrols."

Ravitz nod and the Griffon squad takes to the air, heading toward the barracks.

No sooner have the riders departed than Anestia rides in dropping from the sky as if riding down a hill. She rides past Lauralin, Brook and Darius and straight to the porch. Quickly she dismounts and heads inside. "Anna?" Lauralin says as she goes past. When she doesn't stop Laura follows her inside and up to the situation room where Anestia is online with the Commander of Highports forces.

"Commander, has the ship for the Grand Duchess arrived yet?"

"Late last night, we have it waiting close to what we laughingly refer to as our battle fleet."

'Late last night' Laura mutters looking between Darius and Anestia.

"When can we expect to meet you at the border?", Ivanova askes.

"I'll let you know", Anestia replies, "Darknight out."

"What is going on Anna, what does she mean the ship arrived late last night?"

Anestia turns and stands up facing the Queen, "I'm sorry, My Liege, I've failed you. That message that the ship was ready was a ruse. There was no ship, I was knocked unconscious and the Duchess was abducted."

Lauralin stares at Anestia in disbelief. Then moves around to sit down at Arleena's desk.

"I do know to whom she was taken. Enos Yorl."

Lauralin remains quiet a moment then asks, "How did you find out if you were knocked unconscious?"

"They wanted me to believe that it was Shadowspawn. After I was knocked out they told the Duchess. They apparently didn't realize that Flamefoot is intelligent, he told me when I woke up yesterday morning."

Lauralin sits back, thinking. Darius steps to her side, "Laura, we'll find her."

"Well this explains everything. All that happened, all the terror, all the death, all so he could divide our attentions, and our forces." Lauralin sat back and rubbed her eyes. "I cannot be so certain that we CAN find him. Even Ariel has tried, but because it is a magically created alternate dimensional pocket and not a natural one she cannot locate it. Why did you not just dismiss the vessel?" she asks looking at Anestia.

"We can at least get her crew home".

Lauralin nods, "Brook, would go find the General and inform her of the situation? Have her take the crew to our ship and return them home. Anestia, I leave you in charge until Lea is prepared to take over, Darius I would like you to stay and assist her."

"Where are you going?" Anestia asks.

"Resurgent Dream. To thier Queen, Corinna. The Duchess, while she was in my country was in my charge. I failed in my duty and will face the Queen's punishment."

"The Hell you will", Anestia says, "She was under my protection, so I'm responsible, besides, I crossed the border into Highport, she was out of your jurisdiction."

"Irrelevent. Father is otherwise occupied and she was still in the care of one of my people, therefore still under MY care. See if you can locate her, I'll go to resurgent dream. Darius, perhaps your technology can help, I authorize you to use whatever equipement we have available."

"Flamefoot can sense when the pocket opens. When it does I can go to that location."

"Do so and take Darius with you. Turn the Queendom over to Lea before you leave. I am not making this an option, this is my will." Lauralin stands up and returns outside. She mounts the huge silver dragon and takes to the sky, heading toward Resurgent Dream.

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Later that morning the General issues orders for everyone to pack up and begins heading back toward Dragonsreach.

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Ivanova contacts Gassington and tells him of the strange conversation. "They left already, day before yesterday. Your telling me the ship wasn't there till late last night?"

"No I'm not TELLING you that, it's a fact."

"Alright thanks Susan."

Michael sits back, considering his next move.

...and waits...

Enos Yorl enters the room again, glancing at the trey. "Last chance now, what do you know of the Queen of Dragonsreach and her weaknesses. Speak now and I can return you to your family, else speak to me of what it is that upon noble brow you would wear to your own gifting into slavery."

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Faster than the winds the silver dragon approaches and breaches the barrier of Resurgent Dreams sovreignty. She slows her flight, anticipating reception most unkind to her undeclared arrival.

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The late afternoon sun gazes down upon the General and her people who surround the Duchess crew with good intent and hardened countenence. A lone rider is brought to the General. She has the look of the barbarian to eyes of the gentle and noble men of the crew of the Duchess vessel. She speaks earnestly to the General whos visage grows darker as the words fall upon her ears. She turns from the barbarian woman who takes up station with the soldiers and dismounts, wincing in pain, then approaches the Captain with measured tread. "Captain, Ill news comes. In her duty Anestia was assaulted. Your Duchess, I fear, has been abducted. I am under order to bring you straightaway to a waiting ship in Highport. A ship that slipped to dock upon last eve."

(Okay, no more posting for me after I've been reading shakespeare. Just take the post for what it's worth and ignore the wording.)

Beatrice shrugs her shoulders beneath the drow silk. "A formal gown in the green and gold of my house, stockings, a girdle, slippers, a girdle..." She seems utterly unfazed, not seeming to expect anything approaching slavery.

The captain scowls and goes with Anestia.

(Anestia isn't there, the arriving rider was brook the General is Jozan)

The requested clothing appears on the Duchess. "Choices", Yorl utters and takes the Duchess by the arm, leading her through the doorway and up the tunnel. He enters the dining chamber where two men wait. "Has the bounty been delivered?" he asks of the one then turns to the other, "Find the King of Highport and kill him."

Both men pale, the one given instruction to kill the king stutters a bit. "But Master, he will kill me."

Yorl looks at the man, "The death HE will give you will at least be permanent. GO." He then looks back at the other man waiting for his answer.
(I'm leaving this open ended because I'm not sure of the payment arrangement.)

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Lauralin glides over the countryside toward the Capital city anticipating that someone will intercept her as she approaches the Queens Palace.

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Flamefoot addresses one of the guards who look at the horse inquisitively. "Get the Dark Mistress, Enos Yorls door is opened." The guard hesitates a moment but goes inside to get Anestia.

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The General alters her course, heading directly toward Highport, her anger evident as she barks out even the simplist orders.

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Michael leans forward and pulls several things up on his screen. "Whatcha lookin for Chief?" Trevor asks.

"Anything I can find. Somehow none of this is right. Ferranifer isn't top on my list of favorite people but she's not this sloppy from what I know of her."

The Duchess walks with him. "I would not want to look anything less than my best for my peers. It must, however, be something of fairly grace importance. Hostage taking is very seldom done with outside aid, only thrice in recorded history."

((You get the money upon delivery))

The man looks at Enos Yorl, "Master, the .... the payment is on delivery only." Enos Yorl's eyes narrow, "of course" and he summons one of the creatures, "Take your fellows, take the slut to her destiny and be SURE to get the payment. DON'T come back without it. If there is no payment there, then kill all in the area, starting with the whore."

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Lauralin lands at a location as close to the palace as she can get, puzzled by the apparent lack of security, but remembering Michaels own security to set up as unseen and unknown until actions are taken. She approaches the gate and waits to be addressed by the guard.

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The General say nothing during the day and half trip to Highport. Only issuing orders, obviously upset by the events.

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Anestia runs to Lea's room and wakes her. "I need to go, the Queen is away on business, your in charge." With that she runs out, Darius in tow, not giving Lea the chance to ask her any questions. She mounts her horse and holds her hand out to Darius to help him up, then takes to the sky heading allowing the horse to lead her to where it feels the opening.

Beatrice stands quietly, her hands folded demurely in front of her lap. She simply waits patiently.

Lauralin stands at the gates to the palace of the Queen of Resurgent Dream. "I seek permission to speak with Queen Corinna", she says loudly, looking about.

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The creatures take her up the long tunnel and outside, the servant leading the way to thier rendezvous.

The troll guard arches a brow. "And who might you be to so lightly demand an audience with -High- Queen Corrina?"

Beatrice walks with the creatures to whatever coast or port they are taking her too. Upon arrival, she looks quietly about for the vessel destined to take her.

Lauralin looks at the guard (I looked back over my posts, she didn't leaver her weapons or staff, she still has them, just to let you know, oversight on my part) "I am Lauralin Silverlief, Queen of Dragonsreach."

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The cave, oddly enough, opens onto the deck of a golden galleon. Slaves sit at the oars and the gateway closes behind her as she emerges with the creatures. A man in golden armor barks out an order in a strange language and the slaves are whipped to get them to start moving the vessel. The man rudely runs his eyes over the Duchess then turns to watch over his crew.

The guard nods. "Her Imperial Majesty will be notified. Until she can be reached, you shall be allowed a state room." He bows, looking in the gate to the servants. "A royal visitor!"

A boggan scurries up, bowing deeply to Lauralin. "If you'll follow me, Your Majesty..."

Beatrice steps onto the ship, nodding politely to the man in golden armor. "I presume you are the captain."

"Thank you", Lauralin says to the guard and smiles at the Boggin, turning to follow him.

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The Captain looks down at Beatrice, "Aye, ye're bout an hour from the meetin place." He then takes the steps up to the poop deck and grabs the wheel as the ship starts to move.

He leads her to a finely adorned, four chamber suite. "Will you be needing anything, Your Majesty?"

Beatrice nods. "Then we were magically transported to a ship already at sea."

((*Pokes to check back at delivery instructions*))

Lauralin looks about the room and then turns to the boggin. "Is there some difficulty that will keep the High Queen long? I can certainly afford to wait for the delivery of my news." She begins removing her weapons, letting go first of the staff. The staff stands on it's own, not tilting or falling. The powerful defender blade is removed last.

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"Aye, the mage can do it. We've often ad dealins with im."

(*Not sure what your getting at. If you mean the bound and silenced then the Captain will do it but not until thier closer to thier destination. If there's an emergency and the ship is attacked then he doesn't want thier prize sinking to the ocean floor. The four creatures will be enough to keep her from doing anything rash*)

The boggan shakes his head a little. "Not to my knowledge, Your Majesty."

Beatrice nods. "I know you are to turn me over to those who paid for my abduction. Do you have any other instructions?"

"Aye, ye're ta be bound and gagged. Silenced tis ow it was put. I'll not be doin that till we're closer ta the cove, jus in case of attack. Dont wanna be havin ya sink to the bottom now do we?" He looks back down at the Duchess, locking eyes until one of the creatures moves between the Duchess and the Captain. The Captain then shudders and looks back out, guiding his vessel.

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"Thank you", Laura says to the Boggin and takes a seat to wait until she's summoned.

Beatrice arches a brow. "They are keeping that tradition but none of the others?"

The boggan heads off.

Lauralin waits for a short time then gets up and walks over to look out the window.

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"What other ones?" the captain asks.

Beatrice shrugs. "If they were in your orders, you would know."

"Theys is all the instructions I us given." The captain says and shrugs.
(At least that's all I saw in the posts)

otherwise dressed and treated according to her station."

((That part))

The Captain guided the ship through the shallows with an expert hand and stopped just short of the cove. "I'll be needed ta bind ya now." The captain says as makes his way down from the poop deck. "If ye'd turn about an place ye're ands behind ye're back."

(She is dressed, look at the last post before Enos Yorl removed her from the room she was held in. As for being treated per her station, I'll have to wing it. Kind of hard to bind and gag someone AND treat properly as thier station demands, but I'll my best.)

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Lauralin looks about the room, trying to find anything to read.

((It meant always addressing her as 'Your Grace, giving her a cabin on the ship, bowing and curtseying, things like that.))

There's a long poem on the history of the kingdom.

(Ahhh, well there are no cabins on this ship, aside from the one for the crew, but it's only a short voyage.)

"Ye're Grace. I'm afraid I be havin ta insist on the bein bound. I am sorry but tis the way O' the contract.

Beatrice crosses her hands behind her back but doesn't turn around. She manifests the attitude towards him tying her up that the haughtiest nobles have towards their servants when they dress them, and seems to find this quite normal.

"Thank ye, Ye're Grace", he says as he bows and then moves behind her and binds her hands. He uses a slip knot so that he doesn't have to make the bindings to tight but so they will tighten if she tries to remove her hands. "I'll be needin ta gag ye as well. I do apologize, Ye're Grace but the orders was specific."

Lauralin takes the book and sits back down, beginning to read it.

Beatrice smiles. "Oh, of course. It's standard. This is a pleasant return to normalcy after the mage who did the job."

The Captain pales a bit and shutters at the mention of Enos Yorl. He then gently places a ball gag in her mouth and ties it in place. "Thank ye, Ye're Grace." The Captain bows and returns to his position at the wheel, giving the order to bring the ship into the cove.

When she realizes the nature of the gag, Beatrice blinks twice. "Mppmmm mpphh mmpphh..." she attempts to say something to the captain. She strides down the deck to the prow, coming up right next to the captain, dressed in full court finery, hands tied, and a ballgag in her mouth. "Mphg!"

"Sorry, Grand Duchess", he says as he ties the wheel and removes the gag, "What was at ye say?" he asks as unties the wheel and turns the ship to port narrowly missing a reef.

She gasps for air a little, stretching her mouth. "It needs to be a cloth gag."

He bows, "I umbly pologize Grand Duchess." He looks back, "ANTHAR, GIT ME A CLOT AND BE SURE IT'S CLEAN." He looks forward again, adjusting his course, "See tha slight variation in color in th water. Uns deep, other, lighter aint. Ones passable, lighter'll tear out a hull." He looked at her then looked down, "Am really sorry Your Grace. Mostn our excchanges aint so pleasant."

The one called Anthar returned and grabbed the Duchess, the captain turned and Anthar got a shocked expression as the captain drew his blade out of the mans chest. "ah said RESPECT." Then took the cloth and turned to the Duchess as the man slid to the ground. "Sorry Grand Duchess, ifn ye wouldna mind." he said holding up the cloth.

Beatrice blinks a little at the recently slain man but said nothing. She nods to the captain. "Of course." She opens her mouth about half as wide as it goes.

Meanwhile, a boggan peeks back into Lauralin's room, bowing. "Her Imperial Majesty is free to see you now, Your Majesty."

Lauralin stands, setting the book aside. "Thank you", she tells him sincerely and follows him. "Do you have a name?" she asks him.

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The Captain scans the reef and makes a minor adjustment before tying the wheel and stepping behind the Duchess. He gently places the rag in her mouth and ties it in place. He steps away, bowing, "Thank you for your cooperation, Grand Duchess, and I do apologize for this." He sighs and steps back to the wheel, untying it and glancing about the ship again, checking the reef. "I wouldn't even be here if ...." he shrugs and makes another minor course change.

The boggan nods as he leads her down the hall. "I'm Timothy, Your Majesty."

Beatrice just stands quietly, as she waits for the ship to land.

"Well thank you, Timothy", she says to him smiling. She looks up as she follows him and her smile quickly fades as she thinks about the news she's about to impart.

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"Slow er down, lads, and bring up the lower oars. He peers intently into the cove, "come on, where ya be ya lubbers." He moves slowly, as he flashes a lantern with a red lens several times.

Timothy leads her into the audience chamber where Corrina sits on her throne. He barks "Presenting Queen Lauralin Silverleaf of Dragonsreach!"

The men and women assigned to retrieve the Duchess wait quietly for the ship to dock.

Beatrice waits quietly on the deck.

Lauralin looked at the boggin, "Thank you, Timothy."

Lauralin walked toward the Queen, then hesitated looking at her attire. She had forgotten to change. She still wore her soft leather boots and pants and her light blue tunic. She noticed for the first time the blood on her sleeve, and looked at the four empty scabbards and the empty sheath on her belt. She hadn't brought any clothes with her anyway so she proceeded toward the Queen.

When she stood before the Queen she curtseyed deeply and respectfully. "My apologies for coming to you unannounced but the news I bear is imperative, though grievous." Once her statement was done she arose, per protocol and waited to be addressed.

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The Captain guided the ship into dock and supervised the tying of the tow lines. He then had the gangplank lowered and moved toward the Duchess to escort her to the dock. He stopped as the creatures took positions around her and steeped aside bowing. "Godspeed Grand Duchess."

Corrina stands as Lauralin approaches, bowing her head. "What is so urgent, our friend?"

Beatrice walks graciously with the captain. She frowns a little as the creatures move back in, stepping onto the gangplank. A group emerges from the woods, mostly human. They all bow deeply to Grand Duchess. The leader, a tall, muscled man, speaks. "Greeting, Your Grace. You honor your humble servants with your presence."

Another couple of men carry large chests of dross along the dock, loading them onto the ship. Within about thirty minutes, all the treasure is loaded. One of the men speaks to the creatures. "That should cover the costs. Thank you kindly from us and our lord."

An ornate carriage, drawn by four strong white horses, pulls up, in the colors of house Gwydion. Liveried servants spring off the back, holding the door for Beatrice. With another bow, the leader speaks. "Your carriage awaits, Your Grace."

Beatrice walks to the carriage, managing to step up and in without tripping, despite her restraints. She sits, her back pulled away from the seat so as not to hurt her bound wrists. The carriage takes off.

"The Dutchess Beatrice had been in Dragonsreach and, I fear, she has been abducted. I have my people doing all they can to locate her. I have come to present myself to you for appropriate punitive actions from your government as the one solely responsible for her capture." Lauralin stands tall facing the High Queen, though her exhaustion is evident in her eyes.

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The creatures turn and go back to the ship without saying a word as the Captain looks on, watching the carriage disappear and then returns to his ship and casts off.

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Anestia reaches the point the demon horse had sensed the opening portal and looks off toward the coast. "Well that's odd", she says, half turning her head to Darius, "that's the coast of Resurgent Dream. Apparently one of her own people wanted her." She began riding across the sky the hooves leaving a flaming wake behind her as she began scanning the lands below.

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The General delivers the crew to the sailing vessel that will take them to Resurgent Dream. She waits until they're safely aboard and the ship is out of her sight before she turns and begins riding hard for Dragonsreach.

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"Where there's smoke there's fire", Michael mutters, "and the General is smoking mad from what I can see." He turns to Eve and steps closer kissing her passionitly. "I hate to ask this beloved but I want to keep an eye on the General. I want to follow her."

Eve places her arms around him and returns his kiss. "Easy enough request, my love." She then begins to sparkle and swirl and the sparkling swirl rises into the air. Suddenly Michael, Trevor and Rafe appear in the main deck and Michael smiles as she anticipates him again. "Strap yourselves in boys", she says giggling.

Corrina nods. "We are aware of what has become of our younger sister. Are you truly willing to accept punishment as a common criminal would or do you offer retribution of some lesser sort?"

Lauralin looks at Corrina, "Your aware?" She looks about in confusion, to tired after so many dies without resting her mind, "I am here to accept your punishment, what you see as fitting. I do not understand your question."

Corrina nods to two troll guards. They approach Lauralin and attach golden shackles to her wrists and ankles. "Please come with us, Your Majesty." They bow to Lauralin.

Lauralin looks at the troll guards questioningly but turn to follow them.

The guards escort Lauralin to a refined single chamber with a luxurious bed, and a couch. The door to the room is not a true door but consists of golden bars. "Do you request anything, Your Majesty?"

Lauralin looks around confused. "I do not understand, am I a prisoner or no?"

The troll nods. "You are, Your Majesty."

Lauralin looks around the room. "This is a cell?" She looks back at the troll guard, "I shall need a decision as to my fate soon, or I shall need to feed. If I do not feed it could be .... unpleasant."

The troll pauses. "Is the danger to yourself or to others, Your Majesty?"

Lauralin closes her eyes, almost as if pained and her head bows as if shamefully as she says almost in a whisper, 'To others.'

The troll shrugs. "We have taken your power into account, Your Majesty. The physical materials of your cell might be weak, but very powerful magical wards prevent your escaping and harming others."

Lauralin looks up at the troll and smiles. "Thank you. If the safety of innocents is accounted for then I have no further needs." She sighs in relief and looks around the cell again.

There's the four poster bed, the marble bathroom, two couches, not much else.

Lauralin looks back at the guard. "Thank you .... What is your name?"

He bows. "Edrik, Your Majesty."

"Edrik", she says and smiles, "Thank you Edrik. You two should go now, I've not fed for several days."

The guards leave the room, shutting the barred cell style door and locking it.

Lauralin sits and loses herself in meditation, trying to stave off the thirst that threatens to overwhelm her.

Lauralin is left in her cell for four days and four nights.

Lauralin becomes more deeply withdrawn into her own mind, hiding deeper and deeper from the threatening blood thirst until all that she is lies within one corner of her mind.

Anestia follows the old road, the demon horse leaving a fiery trail across the sky.

After the allotted time has passed, several corked bottles of human blood materialize in the room, along with finely made wine glasses.

Lauralin sits, all pretenses gone. No breath passes her lips, as it's not needed for survival, only for speech. Something stirs somewhere outside the boundries of her mind. Thick and coppery scented. Blood. She groans silently, not wanting to harm anyone. 'To long', she thinks to herself, 'far to long. Go, save yourselves.' She withdraws even further into the tower of iron will she created in her mind, the body being let go. 'Better for all to let it waste away' she thinks to herself, 'one less monster in the world.'

The blood remains there for her.

Anestia growls as the morning brings another day to land. "This road doesn't go ANYWHERE." she mutters, "We head back to the cove and try another direction, there was a fishing village there, maybe they saw something." She mounted the demon horse and and looked at Darius, who mounted the horse, not questioning her decision. He was beginning to fear for Lauralin and wished Adam were available. If he had to he would take out of resurgent dream and damn the consequences.

A guard appears at the gate. "Your Majesty, if you do not feed on the prepared blood, we will be forced to place a convict in with you

'Majesty .... feed .... blood', the words were carried as cry on the wind in her mind. The landscape she had created in her own thoughts began to darken and the imagined sky turned blood red as the thirst grew stronger. The imagined winds carried on it the scent of blood. Not the rich earthy blood of the drow she had come to favor, but the thin blood of the human. The blood that tainted her own veins, when she was mortal. She walked about the tower in her mind, closing the shutters.

Lauralin still sat in the center of the room where she had been for four days. No breath, her eyeteeth exposed, the thirst calling to her hungry form held in check only by her will.

Anestia finally manages to follow the roads to the palace.

Anestia looks down and turns her head a bit, "Stop here or more on? If the Duchess hasn't been found then it may not be a pleasant welcome."

Darius takes a moment to think but can't come up with any other options. "We'll stop. If we have to we'll fight our way clear."

"In that case we'll do it by the book, I'll land at the gate."

Anestia intentionally swings past the wall then back in order to land. Just an indication that she could have bypassed the guards there but didn't out of respect.

The guards eye here warily. "Welcome, lady."

Darius dismounts, followed by Anestia. She bows to the gate guard. "I'm Anestia Darknight, head of intelligence for Dragonsreach, This is Darius Steele president of Gawdly, we've come to speak with the High Queen Corinna. We're not expected."

The guard nods. "We worry for your queen. She refuses to drink the blood we have given her."

Anestia looks at Darius then at the guard. "What kind is it? What race?"

The guard shrugs. "Human."

Anestia nods. "That's why. It's not common knowledge but a Royal Line has various strengths and weaknesses that common vampires don't. She's a Royal Line. Her line links to the first race they feed from and from then on need that race to feed. The race she's linked to is Drow." Anestia removes her helm and pulls back the chain undercover revealing her ink black skin, white hair and silver eyes. "If you can get me to her, she'll feed from me."

The guards nod, escorting Anestia there.

Anestia enters the chamber and drops her helm, quickly removing the breastplate and chain shirt. She kneels down in front of Lauralin, taking her head gently and pulling it to her neck.

The storm in Lauralins mind rages greater than before. She carefully winds the streets of her mind, trying to see what is causing the furor until finally she can open her senses to the world about her.

Lauralins eyes flutter and open. She sees ink black skin. Her thirst becomes to great to stop and she sinks her teeth into Anestias neck. Anestia and Lauralin are locked together for a few minutes, both seeming to be in the throws of ecstasy as Lauralin revels in the flow of blood and Anestia, mind linked through the blood, shares her revelry. After a short time Laura pulls away, looking no worse for the time she has been here. Anestia quickly calls on her dark powers and heals herself. Then Lauralin looks up at the guard, "What are you to do with me now?" Anestia glances at Darius then moves to put her armor back on.

The guard shrugs. "You are free to go, Your Majesty."

"What about these?" she asks holding up her shackles.

(I've already looked back, they haven't been removed yet.)

"And would it be possible to have a word with the High Queen before I go?"

The guard steps in and removes the shackles. "Of course. She is in the audience chamber."

Lauralin, Anestia and Darius follow the guard. Anestia removes her helm and pulls down the chain hood then she and Darius bow deeply to the Queen. Lauralin curtsey's, holding it while she addresses Corinna. "I wanted to inquire about the Duchess before I left. If she has not yet been recovered then I shall continue my search." She then stands, facing the Queen.

"If I might be so bold", Anestia interrupted, "I've tracked the Duchess to the shores of Resurgent Dream where I then lost her trail."

Lauralin loses her composer for a moment, turning to look at Anestia in surprise but quickly recovers and turns back toward Corinna. "In that case, Your Majesty, if I am to pursue this then I would need your permission."

(If you want to end the thread here, you can just claim it an internal affair. If you want to continue then she'd leave Anestia and Darius and head back to Dragonsreach.)

((End it here for now. Some stuff has to happen before I can do more with this.))

Corrina inclines her head, smiling lightly. "We have the matter in hand. Thank you, Queen Lauralin."

Lauralin curtseys politely and signals for Anestia and Darius to follow her. "Thank you, High Queen Corrina." Lauralin leaves the palace and returns to Dragonsreach.