NationStates Jolt Archive

Edan sat outside the Sithen awaiting the guests from the surrounding nations. It was a beautiful sunny day, but Edan felt ill at ease. It wasn't natural for and Unseelie to be out in the mortal world. The world of the Unseelie Sidhe was in the Sithen. They had their own moon and sun. It was only the Golden Court that tried to mingle among mortals.

"Seelie." She spit on the ground. Those who dared call her people vile. The very ones who'd nearly gotten all the fey killed years ago. It was best just to leave the humans, and the lesser fey, to their own devices.

Not that Edan minded those who weren't Sidhe. She just didn't like mixing politics. At 300 years old, she was still quite young for a Sidhe, but she thought she knew a thing or two.

She fiddled with the leather band holding her blood red hair back. Her eyes, blue orange and red as flames danced as she scanned the border for the awaited delegates. In a few hours the ground would be officially broken. The land would be theirs. For the first time in history the Unseelie Court would have a whole nation to themselves.

She shifted again. 'What is taking them so long?'

'What is taking them so long?'

"Probably the fact that they don't know what to make of you." Came the cool, slightly ascerbic voice from out of nowhere as a tall woman, her bright auburn hair blowing softly in a breeze that seemed to spring as much from nowhere as she had. Cinnamon amber eyes took in the Unseelie Sidhe with keen, dispassionate observation. They were eyes that missed little and saw much that others prefered to keep hidden.

"They have no idea to trust you or no, and the Sidhe they most know haven't been in a sithen in years, or won't say if they have or not. So all they know are twice told tales that paint neither your or the Court of Light in any good light, and yes you're worse than. They're taught not to trust either side of that not so white picket fence."

She was easily six feet in low heeled boots, and her auburn hair- human auburn, a mix of gold and copper and deeper bronze -had been braided into two plaits - each as thick as a strong man's wrists and decorated with lapis beads - framing her face. But most hung loose as it tumbled in deep waves nearly to her waist. She looked human, at the moment, but there was a difference about her that any could sense to one degree or another... To those with deeper sight her forms shifted constantly, but most often settling into something feline, but unseen only sensed...

She carried herself with pride and power, for she had ruled her people for well over eleven thousand years....and had long left 'human' behind.

The Lady of Cats Keep stepped from the patch of shadow she had utelized as her gateway. It was no effort for her, not for one that was more of the Shadow Realm than the one the two stood in.

A fine shirt of heavy ivory silk lay behind a doublet of ebon velvet that glittered here and there with tiny jet beads. Matching black pants were tucked into thigh boots of soft black suede that were clasped about with gold buckles. A sword rose visable over one shoulder and the cape she wore ruffled in the same unbreeze as her hair. At her throat lay a Starstone, a Psi Matrix, the width of a palm, no silk warding it...

"I am Shalamar, Lady of Cats Keep, and welcome to the wider world. It's fine piece of land...but you don't look any too pleased for your people to be looking beyond your Sithen. Is yours dieing?"

That was a question she knew they didn't want asked, and even more didn't want to answer - if her intellengence was correct, and it usually was...

http://www.atddm.com/Shal1a.jpg

Edan frowned slightly, as she stood. She offered a cordial bow.

"Welcome Lady Shalamar. I'm quite surprised someone such high standing among her people would come to such a small formal event."

"I"m impressed by your knowledge of the Sidhe. However, I must say you're quite wrong about the Sithen. We chose this land when the new", she emphasized the world,"Sithen made itself evident to the King. The Sithen is as old as the breath I have just taken. There is no trouble there."

This was the reason she didn't like having others come to call. There was too much legend about them. Myths could be dispelled, but legends had that grain of truth that made it impossible to argue. More specifically, the more problems were proven non-existent, the easier it was for those with the knowledge to zero in on the issues.

"I am Edan of Fire and Blood."

She bowed again, the metal of the armor she wore on her torso glittering in the light. She'd dressed as she also did. She wore black knee-high archer boots. The leather used for them was not something discussed. All that could be sure was that they weren't cow leather. She wore leggings made of soft lambs wool. Her Armor was a bodice like chest plate and what appeared to be a metal skirt. She also wore two elbow length gauntlets. On the ground where she'd been sitting laid a beautiful cloak.

"I'm Brigit's (http://inanna.virtualave.net/brigit.html) daughter by Goibhniu (http://www.godchecker.com/pantheon/celtic-mythology.php?deity=GOIBHNIU). "

The symbol of Brigit was tatooed on her right cheek. "Welcome. When the others arrive we'll enter."

"Maddi, we're lost"

"No we're not. I know exactly where we are...but I do have to admit that where we are isn't where we're supposed to be." Madrigal Orel Shimada replied with mock hauteur. "We'll find it sooner or later, or you could fire up the Tom Tom and down load some updated postiion maps, Tali"

Her oldest friend, Talishimma Aurora A'lurial Roth, they had grown up together, shuddered her great golden wings rustling softly. "If I do it will just go on the fritz, like last time. You know machines don't like me."

Madrigal Shimada, daughter of Robyn and Kazuma Shimasa, two of Tanaara's famous Four Horsemen, laughed and shook her head. "Then don't complain that we aren't there yet. And besides it's only some machines. You're just sulking 'cause I won the coin toss." She grinned at her the memory of Tally's disappionetment over the loss.

The Celestial had felt that due to her natural ability to fly that she should polit. Madrigal had disagreed and insisted on a coin toss, and won. Family luck she joked. Talisman, as most called her - Celestials seldom gave their names to nonfamily members, or friends known since very young like Madrigal - pouted for nearly an hour before her naturally sunny disposition had reasserted itself.

"You get to pilot next trip we take, besides it would have taken too long to get you certified in this monster." Maddie added sensibly. The vehicle was a hybrid antigrav that was also a flying palace, designed specifically for providing an Embassy on the move, and despite all it's technologial innovations was taking all most all of Maddie's concentration to handle. And she's had the special course in flying the jumbo rig.

"Wait I think thats the place." Tally leaned forward and pointed out the windsield. "That looks like none other than Lady Shalamar, and that red hair, on the other lady has to be Seelie Crimson, to perfect to be a dye job."

"I think your rigt. Good thing I was keeping us low and slow at tree top level. This doesn't correlate to our map refernces at all. Good catch oh eagle eyes one." Madrigal said appreciatively as she gently lost altitide and set the immense vehicle down with scarecly a flutter. But she sighed in relief once she turned the motor off.

This was her first assignemnt as an accredited diplomat for her nation and she had to admit to butterflies in her stomach, with wings bigger than her friends! Now to take a moment to get presentable and then it was show time. She was glad she had Tally with her, acting as aide cum bodyguard.

"Sidhe?" came the surprised look from auburn haired elven woman as she stood upright from her kneeled position in front of a tomato plant where she had been tending to removing some of the unwanted insects, "We've not had sidhe in this region in a long time. Where did they come from?"

"We're not quite sure just yet, but what we have been able to gather is that they may not be of the favorable sort. My gut instinct is telling me that we probably want to avoid contact with them." replied the aged man who at fifty-seven years of age, was quite fit for his age. His intellect was notable, having gone to one of the prestigious universities that were scattered throughout the nation.

"Richard, you judge too quickly, yet again." Aeris scolded him, "After all, are we all not somewhere in the balance of good and evil, constantly at war with our own thoughts and emotions?" She placed her hands on her hips, giving him one of those looks.

He nodded, "Forgive me. You're correct but all the same, I suggest we deal with this in a mindful manner." He held up the invitation, waving it for effect. "Shall I send one of the ambassadors to meet them?"

Aeris shook her head negatively, "No, if they are sidhe, they'll be naturally distrusting of anyone not of their kind. Like you are with them." She walked past him, "No, I'll attend this one personally."

"Are you sure, my lady? They might trap you, or worse, harm you." Richard asked, receiving a harsh glare from her. He watched as Aeris turned and strode back to him swiftly, her finger jabbing at his chest. Each time she jabbed, a jolt of electricity shot through his body.

"Do not forget who I am, aside from my title, Mister Townridge. I am more than capable of taking care of myself! When you were but a child, a mere, weak child, I was there when this entire nation was clenched in the damn claws of demons from another world. What have you done, except for your seventeen years of duty in the service?! The worst you ever saw was action against rogue pirates off the coast of Argonia. If you faced one demon, just one demon Mister Townridge, you'd likely find yourself shitting your pants and wishing you were elsewhere! So do not dare presume that I am weak and helpless!"

She turned away from him with a scowl, "If these sidhe dare try anything, they're not only going to get the wrath of myself, but also the wrath of our international friends. It would be a very poor, and a very ill-fated," she threw her hands up, fingers indicating quotation marks, "diplomatic" decision on their part."

Another turn to him, her eyes narrowing, "Putting it simply, there will be a hole in the ground where they've announced their home to be." She kept her gaze locked with his for another long moment before she disappeared inside the castle.

Townridge had remained rigid against her verbal onslaught, a slight fear arising in his mind as he wondered if he had just ended his career. When he saw she wasn't going to do anything of that sort, he breathed a sigh of relief, licking his dry lips. His eyes moved upward to the highest peak of the castle, silently whispering a prayer of thanks. It was only in that moment that when he attempted to leave the garden did he realize something else.

Glancing down at his feet, he couldn't help but see his shadow upon the ground, a half foot beneath his reach. He tried running, but only succeeded in looking like a fool running in place. He jerked this way and that, to no avail.

"Oh goddammit." he muttered, looking up to where she had disappeared, "Lady? Lady Aeris?!"

Silence responded with all the cold dread rising up within him again.

Background Information TIME
The Dominion of Unseelie Sidhe is a new nation that has just been founded by the King of the Unseelie Court. He will be revealed in later posts. This is the first time that a Sithen has created itself on an uninhabited piece of land. This means that the Unseelie Court can run itself without worry of outside parties messing things up.

This train of thought pertains only to the land itself and not to the international community. The King will of course honour and accept all international agreements provided by the other nations of Fatal Terrain. That is so long as they don't interfere with the smooth running of the nation.

Placement Since the map hasn't been edited yet I'm going to explain where the Dominion is on the map. It's the really forest filled land that's to the West of Grazhjistan and North-West of Argonia. Also, I've been told Imitora owns the island chain to my south. Enjoy that. The Sithen runs under almost the whole nation. The entrance to the Sithen is that opening at the foothills.

Populous The only inhabitants of the nation are Unseelie fey. This includes brownies, pixies, Driads, Sidhe, Fairies, Leprechauns, Sprits, Nymphs, and whatever other types I can think of. Inside the Sithen it's mostly Sidhe, with a few brownies and Fairies floating around. All the other fey live all over the country. There are also Sidhe, like Edan, who will move to other places outside the Sithen as time passes. (Volcanoes make good Sidhe forges)

Relation to Nature None of the Sidhe want to mess with the natural way of the country. Everything is harmonious with nature. This is one of the few harmonious things the Unseelie allow.

Sithen Architecture The Sithen changes and adapts as the Sidhe or the Sithen itself pleases. One door might not always lead you to the same spot, so it's best not to wander off alone. The entrance to the Sithen is hidden to non-fey eyes. This means Elves can see the entrance. Humans are unaware of it. However, most other creatures can sense the entrance even if they can't see it. There are farms, fields, pubs, rooms, torture chambers, The Throne room. Anything that is required can be found in the Sithen. If the Sithen wants you to have it. Saying you wish to see how you look could result in mirror appearing. When the Sithen changes for you remember to thank it. It is a living magical creature.

Magic and Technology Technology does not work within the Sithen. It's useless, don't try. Outside of the Sithen it works just fine. So cameras, jets, boats, etc should be fine. Also the Sithens magic shouldn't affect the surrounding nations.

Magic runs wild, though most are in control of it. There is no need to fear being hurt by it. Unless we want to hurt you.

Sidhe History Sidhe are the name for the purest and most powerful fey. Higher elves are a kind of Sidhe. There are many kinds of sidhe. Leenan Sidhe seduce men to make them their slaves, if the men don't call for the Leenan Sidhe than she would become his slave. Among both the Seelie and Unseelie courts lesser fey and halflings tend to be looked down on. There are many still who look down on anything below a pure Sidhe. This can causes many problems. However, those who truly look down on non-Sidhe NEVER leave the Sithen.

Seelie Sidhe define themselves as "good and pure". They can be immensely cruel, and violent though. They would rather spend time with humans than the Unseelie. Seelie will never accept Unseelie borns into their court. The Unseelie are violent, dark, and sometimes malicious. However, they never claim to be good, unlike the Golden Court. Also, they are less likely to reject other Sidhe. Even if they are halflings or from the other court.

The oldest and most powerful Sidhe are those that humans once thought to be Celtic and even Norse Gods. When Christianity came, many of these Gods fell. Brigit was adopted into Christianity as a saint. Luagh turned into the first Leprauchaun. Many of the older ones claim neither court as their home.

Many humans become enthralled when they enter the Sithen. They usually need to have their eyes, hearts, and minds cleared of corruption before they can leave the entrance. However, some people (human or otherwise) become "fey struck". They are drawn in by the majesty of the Sidhe and usually can't function around them. This is very dangerous for humans. Humans who become "Fey Struck" are usually removed from the Sidhe. Though many will take advantage of this.

There is also a tendency toward physical affection among the Unseelie. Sometimes tender, other times harsh. They hug and touch a lot. It eases the mind.

I think that's enough information for the time being. If you need more just ask. This information is a collection of actual myth on Sidhe, and some ideas I nicked from Merry Gentry.

Izual sat listening to the wind, waiting for a confirmation on what he had sensed. At the moment he wasn't quite sure besides knowing it was a disturbance, or rather a difference in the arcane structure of the region. It was vital for Izual to monitor the happenings of the region lest he be caught unaware by one of Arithon's plots.

This was different though, this didn't stink of demon. Finally the presence was identified as the wind carried a signature of the 'difference'. A Sidhe. Izual had personally never dealt with a Sidhe before but was somewhat familiar with what they were thanks to the texts and various stores of knowledge he had encountered over his life. Whilst somewhat wary of this newcomer, he couldn't help but be curious. He knew these creatures were highly magical and would no doubt catch the attention of Arithon. The vital question was whether they would fine themselves in alliance with or under the taloned foot of the demon lord.

Gathering himself, Izual opted to step through the veil between the human world and the demon world. It was a technique developed by Nez'gah, Arithon's second in command and whilst it could draw attention if anyone was watching, Izual was confident he could slip in and out quickly enough to not gain any undue publicity.

An instant later, Izual stood not far off from two figures. His attention was momentarily drawn to what could be called a gateway, an entrance into a place not of this world. Whilst visible to him, Izual was unable to decipher where it may lead or how it was constructed.

Pushing those thoughts aside, Izual moved slightly closer and identified one of the figures as Lady Shalamar. Whilst they had never met before, Izual had taken a keen interested in the being that had openly and sternly opposed Arithon to his face and lived to get away with it. The other figure was obviously the Sidhe. Not knowing what to expect, Izual didn't approach but merely took some time to examine his surroundings and the beings before him.

Whilst not making an effort to conceal himself, Izual had no doubt that his human guise would not fool the pair before him. When not displaying his angelic or demonic attributes, Izual liked to take on his original human shape, a tall man of nearly six and a half feet with wavy black hair cropped to either side of his head. His complexion showed obvious signs of sun tanning and by all appearances he had been a man familiar with physical exercise.

Wearing a loosely fitting gray robe, Izual kept the hood back and simply stood, watching the two before him. They would notice him soon enough and he didn't want to approach unless sure they intentions would not be hostile.

Edan turned to watch the man who had just appeared. She could feel the otherworldliness come off him in waves. He was using a glamour or he's shifted his appearance. All she was sure of was that he wasn't a human. Her guests thus far didn't seem very, pleasing to her.

"You really shouldn't just enter unfamiliar territory like that. Come out of thin air like that." She tsked. She then produced a ball of fire and circled it around that man."How am I to know if you're friend or foe? By all rights I should toss you in the volcano. We have four of them."

Edan couldn't hid the mischief from her voice or smile. She was playing wit him, as a kitten played with a yarn. There was no malice, just amusement.

"You may as well introduce yourself, sir. I wouldn't want to have to call the Darkness."

As the attention of the others was focused on the arrival of Izual, a voice spoke quietly, yet firmly. "To gather the Darkness against a servant of the Darkest One would be useless. You should know that, for you are sidhe."

Just then, the ball of fire circulating the man was extinguished.

The speaker emerged from an adjacent room, having arrived only moments ago by use of portal. Aeris cast her eyes, and gave a nod to Shalamar before turning her attention to Izual. "I shouldn't be surprised that Arithon would send one of his minions to scout this civilization, perhaps to ally, or oppress them based off whatever information you feed that thaurer." she commented, giving Arithon the elven name so chosen for him.

Turning to the sidhe, she extended a greeting, "'Quel re. I am Hiril Aeris, Empress of Tarlachia. Despite my dislike for him and his kind, the facts remain. They are a part of this region, and I will not have another war come to life if I can prevent it." Aeris was clearly sidhe as well, her emerald eyes bright and intelligent.

OOC: The words in italics are elvish words, just so you know.

Edan offered her most respectful bow.

"Empress Aeris, I was unaware that you would be attending this event." The slightest of blushes warmed the younger Sidhe's cheeks. "It is an honour to have you here. Of course we don't want to cause any incidents. I had heard of the Great War many years ago. We of course don't want to create any enemies here in this region and...."

Edan was totally at loss for words. She hadn't expected the Elven Empress of Tarlachia would be here. She wasn't prepared to speak to such a high ranking diplomat. She especially couldn't speak to such a high level sidhe. She continued to stutter her way along.

"...we won't cause any problems. We'll probably just stay in the Sidhe. I mean no one in the Unseelie court has cast any real problem since...um... since"

"Since that incident with William Wallace stealing one of your father swords."

Edan staggered in shock at the voice. It was cool and surrounding like the nights of the New Moon. She tripped. As fast as a shadow follows you, she was brought in close to a man who looked to be made of onyx. His hood covered his eyes, but a bright white smile broke the blackness.

"Keiran, you nearly killed me," muttered Edan angrily.

"That's not why the King asked me out here," he laughed at the dark humour. He nodded to the others and bowed to Aeris.

"I am the King's Darkness, Keiran." He turned his attentions back to Edan, who he'd yet to let go of. "He would like to know why you haven't entered with the guests."

Edan shivered hard. "There are only three guests who have arrived."

"So I see. Shall I wait with you?"

"Please dont," whimpered the young Sidhe.

Keiran smiled again. It was kind of like the Cheshire Cat's grin when he is still invisible.

"I think I'll wait with you."

{Background Information- The Darkness is the Sidhe King or Queens best assassin. It is their job to kill all those who would cause harm to the ruling Sidhe or the court. Also, those who speak of the secrets of the Sithen outside the Sithen will be stalked by the Darkness and have their eyes and tongues removed. So they can no longer see the fey world, nor speak of it's wonders. They are of Death and Shadow. So they are quite scary. There is usually only one. They can kill you by just touching you, which may or may not be the reason for Edan's reaction to Keiran}

Observing silently as the Darkness arrived and conversed with the sidhe opposite her, Aeris too acknowledged his presence, smirking slightly as the sidhe seemed frightened enough at Keiran's announcement that he'd stay. Aeris looked over at Shalamar a moment, How are you, dear friend? Learn anything new about our new...friends yet?

She looked back to the sidhe, clearing her throat, "It would be convenient if you could inform me of your name, so I might address you properly during my stay here."

She gave her a warm enough and reassuring smile.

Shalamar had cocked her head at Izual... for, no he was not fully demonic, there was much Other about him for all his human appearance..., a tall, broad shouldered man, physically fit and taller than her by a good head with wavy black hair and a tan.

No, this was no minion of Arithons, but she'd let the others find it out in their own time, unless Aeris's dislike of anything that even might be remotely associated with the Demon Lord forced her hand.

She crossed over to him. "Shalamar of Cats Keep" She held out her hand freely, interest in seeing his response...but before he could...another of the Unseelie Court had arrived, one that terrified Edan, and that meant something interesting...ah then Edan's naming solved the short lived mystery.

She watched the interplay between the two Sidhe with well hidden interest

How are you, dear friend? Learn anything new about our new...friends yet

They definitely are classical Unseeliegh Sidhe. And I am doing well, but take a good long look at the one you assume is an agent of Arithon.

Keiran chuckled at Edan's sudden look of panic, when Aeris pointed out the young lady hadn't introduced herself. Edan was well aware of what happened to those who disrespected higher sidhe in the Unseelie Court. However, she wasn't very knowledgeable as to the working of the Sidhe outside the court. That and Keiran's proximity made her all the more nervous.

"I'm a...I'm..." Edan shifted uncomfortably.

"You'll really have to excuse her. She's not used to meeting new people," explained Keiran.

Edan glared up at him. "Will you cease making me sound like incompetent child?"

"Eventually," purred the Darkness. He truly loved making Edan uncomfortable.

Edan blushed and looked away from everyone.

"This," Keiran ruffled Edan's hair. "is Edan of Blood and Fire. She is the child of Brigit and Goibhniu, of whom I'd hope one so wise as yourself would know. She is a Healer, and our metalsmith. She really has her father's gift."

"Thank you" mumbled the girl.

"How humble you can be. How sweet."

For a brief moment Keiran locked eyes with Edan. He let her step away when she broke the stare.

"Will others be arriving?" Edan questioned the assembled group. She seemed shaky. But then again, she'd just more or less stared death down.

Madrigal nodded at her appearance in the mirroe. She looked suitable, and nodded to Talisman, who herself looked resplendent in her own outfit.

The door slid open and they descended the few steps to the ground. With a tap of the button on the ehy fib the doors locked behind tham and they began the walk to where the other national representatives waited.

"Thats Lady Shalamar, and OMG!" Talley pulled Maddie to a halt "Thats the Empress, Aeris. Were you advised that she'd..." Talisman whipered.

"No! and calm down. She's just another person...and Rob's wife so be nice!" Madrigal scolded in a similar whisper, before urging her friend on to where the others stood.

"Lady Shalamar, Your Majesty I am Madrigal Orel Shimada, and this Is Talisman. The King has sent me to represent Tanaara." She gave the two ladies a curtsey, as did Talisman.

Madrigal had some of the mental donas, psionic gifts, but it was Talisman that drew the eyes, not only with her metalic gold feathered wings but the fact - which was rather unmaskable - that she had the full spectrum of Celestial Gifts, and in abundance.

Aeris turned her attention to Madrigal and Talisman, smiling as she recognized them. "Hello ladies. You both look lovely in those outfits." She responded to Shalamar a second later in thought, Later...when his attention is elsewhere. I'll speak to him then, and get the truth as to why he's really here.

"Will others be arriving?"

Aeris turned her attention back to Edan, "Patience. They will come, or at least inform you otherwise."

"How am I to know if you're friend or foe? By all rights I should toss you in the volcano. We have four of them."

Izual simply smiled as the flames surrounded him. Fire was not threat to his kind and he could just as easily step through the veil once again and end up almost anywhere. Nonetheless, this predicament was amusing to him. Noting the slight smile on the sidhe's own face, Izual didn't act in a hostile manner and simply matched her gaze.

"To gather the Darkness against a servant of the Darkest One would be useless. You should know that, for you are sidhe."

Before he could answer the sidhe, Empress Aeris appears, a less than impressed gaze directed his way. Continuing to say nothing, Izual merely watched the proceedings unfold before him. None of these people knew him or his story, although he knew who they were and some details about their positions and lives.

"I shouldn't be surprised that Arithon would send one of his minions..."

Finally breaking his silence, Izual spoke to Aeris.

"Don't be so quick to assume, elf."

Whilst knowing that Aeris was more than an elf, Izual chose to simply address her as she appeared, not particularly concerned whether that would get a rise out of her or not.

Noting Shalamar watching him, Izual met her gaze with a blank expression. He wasn't appearing hostile or friendly, although behind that mask he was very curious to know this being from Cats Keep.

"Shalamar of Cats Keep"

Before he could respond, another sidhe appeared, this one unsettling the other. Izual could sense a difference in this one, it didn't take Edan's reaction to gather this newcomer was quite dangerous.

Returning his attention to Shalamar, Izual took the offered hand in a firm but friendly grip.

"I am known as Izual in most parts and it is a pleasure to meet you. I have heard much about you, lady Shalamar. I have no nation to claim as my home but I have been a resident of this region for longer than most of the nations within have existed."

Keiran watched the scene in front of himself with a wry grin. It had been a long time since he'd seen any individuals beyond those of the courts. Time moved differently in the Sithen than in the rest of the world. Sometimes time in the Sithen would literally be hours faster or days slower. A day outside could be a year in the Sithen, or only a minute.

He'd just stay back and watch for now. If his abilities were needed, he would step in. He turned and watched Edan slid on her cloak.

'Must make sure the child doesn't hurt herself' he chuckled in his mind.

"I am known as Izual in most parts and it is a pleasure to meet you. I have heard much about you, lady Shalamar. I have no nation to claim as my home but I have been a resident of this region for longer than most of the nations within have existed."

"Welcome Izual." Edan gave him a short bow.

'She bows too quickly,' though Keiran.

Posting as both Cats Keep and as Tanaara, next time it will be turn about...

Madrigal blushed as she realized she had stepped in on a conversation, and she stepped back a few steps so as to allow the Lady of Cat Keep to finish her conversation. It also allowed Maddie to semi listen in, as she did not recognise the handsome man in grey robes, but he wss obviously a deligate from one of the other nations...

She turned her attentions fully to Aeris as the Empress acknowledged her with Hello ladies. You both look lovely in those outfits."

"Why, thank you Aeris. We didn't expect to see you here but I think neither did Rob." Maddy had been raised with the newst king of Tanaara and when speaking to his wife, who had also become something of a friend didn't think to speak formally - not that Tanaaran's stood on much formality - though she would speak moreso later.

She moved closer to Aeris to whisper as she made a tiny nod toward Talisman "They came up with that outfit for her." All the information gotten had said that the Unseelie wore outfits that displayed a lot, and they meant a lot of skin...And she'd flat out refused to wear hers, though Tally had bowed to pressure..and a direct order.

No, Maddy wore a fasionable ladies suit in a deep grey, but with lots of Celtic knotwork in hues of burnt orange, copper, emerald, bronze and rust. It complemented her part Japanese heritage - her father always said that she was the very image of his grandmother.

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/6756/maddypr9.th.jpg (http://img256.imageshack.us/my.php?image=maddypr9.jpg)Maddy http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/9360/talismanrx2.th.jpg (http://img256.imageshack.us/my.php?image=talismanrx2.jpg) Talisman



I am known as Izual in most parts and it is a pleasure to meet you. I have heard much about you, lady Shalamar. I have no nation to claim as my home but I have been a resident of this region for longer than most of the nations within have existed."

"Izural. A storng name"

Shalamar liked his hand shake, his grasp was firm and warm, without being crushing. And was willing to admit with a wry grin ..

"You have one over me, as I don't know anything ...muchly...about you save that you are indeed not a creature of Arithons. That attachment I'd recognise. How about when all the foldroll is over we sit down over mugs of our respectively favorite drink, beside a crackling fire and chat?" Or dinner, drinks, dancing and afterwards we see what is spilt in pillow talk? Her mind voice ws clear, and very precisely targeted for Izural alone. And definitely meant to get a reaction out of him...

She kept her attention on him, letting Aertis deal with the two young Tanaarans.

"Welcome Izual."

Izual took a brief moment away from Shalamar's gaze to greet Edan with an inclination of his head. The appearance of the other sidhe had obviously put her on edge but from what he gathered before he arrived, this Edan was an interesting character.

"You have one over me, as I don't know anything ...muchly...about you save that you are indeed not a creature of Arithons. That attachment I'd recognise. How about when all the foldroll is over we sit down over mugs of our respectively favorite drink, beside a crackling fire and chat?"

Izual nodded that he would certainly like to do such.

"My origin is an interesting story that I'd be happy to share with you. My past is indeed linked to Arithon but he seems to be much more interested in killing me these days."

An ever so slight blush arose on Izual's cheeks as he received Shalamar's mental message, causing a sly grin to cross his face.

"Who knows what the future will bring..."

"Supreme Lord of Nexxus, your presence with us would be greatly appreciated. It is our hope to perhaps forge friendly international relations with your nation. If you accept this offer then we will be expecting you presence at our meeting to discuss the terms.”
In the distance far from any-ones sight or hearing, a black circle of fire formed on the ground as a man began to levitate out and stand on the forest floor. He was a tall man in battle worn cloths with eyes that suit a wise old man and seemed out of place in his powerful frame, he wore jewelry, which gave an uneasy felling to those around them, that of witch glowed with a source of power.
”The land of Sidhe, knew I should have turned this mission down, might as well get some recon done before I introduce myself, I hate meeting new people.”
After walking for 5 minutes or so the meeting came into his view. He sat listening intently as the conversation took place in front of his eyes. He wanted to learn as much as he could before he came into contact with his soon to be allies of Sidhe.

Nexxan Ambassador ( http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee49/destinyroad/AnimePaperwallpapers_Bleach_Rukawa1.jpg)

Lord of Nexxus ( http://p-images.veoh.com/image.out?imageId=user-vaswizard51.jpg&version=4)

My origin is an interesting story that I'd be happy to share with you. My past is indeed linked to Arithon but he seems to be much more interested in killing me these days."

"nteresting indeed, and of no little skill and power if he has not slain thee yet. He is persistant, but patient. I very much wish to hear your tale." Yes he had captured her interest very neatly...

Shalamars eyes twinkled as the mental image she gave Izual threw back her head and laughed deeply. Ah, well met my Lord, and forgive me for teasing you, and indeed who knows what pleasures the future holds..but what do you know of the Lords of Nexxus...one comes dispatched from them

Shalamr turned and looked at the one who approached. He had more than a wiff of power about him, and more than a hint of age despite his youthfull, if worn appearance.

"Greetings" Shalamar gave a small tilt of her head as she regarded him steadily.

Keiran* (http://www.connectionsmt.com/gallery/gal_trent.jpg) watched as another person joined the group. He wasn't sure why, but he didn't like this person. The Darkness placed himself as a barrier between Edan and the man. 'It wouldn't do well for the young one to get hurt.'

Edan moved around him. "I am Edan of Fire and Blood. May i ask who you are?"

*Except he's all black. and by black I mean onyx and obsidian. With the exception of Teeth just varying degrees of black

"Don't be so quick to assume, elf."

Aeris merely gave him a look, just as another person arrived. Sensing a flow of power coming from the man, she gave him her attention, carefully watching him. Yet, she wasn't without her manners.

"Greetings. I am Empress Aeris Greenwood of Tarlachia." she stated, giving a respectful, yet brief bow. Her gaze studied him, and slowly, she came to realize that the power came not from him, but from something on him. What, she didn't know, but she was sure she'd figure it out soon enough.

Talisman found herself moving between Maddy and the newly arrived stranger. He disturbed her instincts far more than Irzual did, and she trusted her inner voices completely when it came to such matters.

She had to give the onyx hued Sidhe kudos, he apparently felt the same way. Talisman discretely began gathering power into the palm of her right hand, the crystaline pure power of Celestial Light. There was no one present immune to it, and some would be far more vulnerable to it than others.

"Greetings. I am Empress Aeris Greenwood of Tarlachia." she stated, giving a respectful, yet brief bow
He seemed almost surprised that someone was bowing to him, and an Empress at that.
“I am Asha’Man of Nexxus ”, As he introduced himself he gave a slight bow out of respect and took a closer look at the two welcoming speakers. He noticed how the bow Aeris gave was halfhearted , causing him to chuckle a little in his mind “ Pleased to meet you both, my Lord sent me here on a mission, and it’s in mine as well as your best interests not to waste his time”
Despite the fear of angering his Lord he was very interested in the Sidhe, mainly because he had never been in their homeland, had he ever met one before either.
“Maybe this meeting can prove beneficial, I can gather some information on the Sidhe filling one of the last remaining races in the world I have to learn about.”
Looking at Edan, “ So is this everyone or can I expect to be waiting on someone to arrive?”

A hooded man came out of the shadows and revealed himself to the unsuspecting crowed. He threw a specialized bracelet(piece of jewelry from nexxus) ,that he created years ago should such a situation present itself, on the ground , this object is based on the design of a flash grenade that drains all power in a split second, only to be used in absolute emergencies because it would drain his as well. He knew that the lady of cats keep would be first to do doubt his representative’s intentions based on looks alone. So he arrived shortly after his ambassador and has been hidden ever since.
“I am sorry for the misunderstanding he is still new to the diplomatic position. However he meant no harm by his attitude"
He picked up his personalized bracelet and put it on his wrist. Stood up and stuck his hand out as if to shake.
nexxus lord (http://tinypic.com/ftj1qd.gif)

Talisman jumped as she felt the power she had been gathering vanish in a flash as a bejeweled object landed in their midst.

But before she could react another had moved.

The Lady of Cats Keep had lived as much by the sword as by the mind gifts and before the being had fully straightened up there was a razor edged sword at the skin of his throat, over the pulse point, though it wasn't drawing life's blood just yet.

"None here made an attack for you to defend against " Her voice was a chill menace. and her eyes never left the Lord of Nexxus, and the weight of that menace had far more than just the lethal steel of her sword behind it, as power built like a growing storm, a sure but subtle feeling of pressure, and ionization that prickled the small hairs on the back of ones neck...

"I don't protest your concern, however you must understand that i was looking out for the best interests of my own"

He matched the lady of cats glare and spoke straight to her like no one else existed.

" In my defense, is their a reason your friend was gathering such a terrifying source of power, the truth is asha'man gave her no reason to be worried he simply introduced himself."

He shifted his eyes so that they implied he would like the sword removed.

"i would appreciate it if we could have a civilized discussion without the need to fight or harm each other."

Elsie Fortuna stood high above the young messenger before her. The empress waved her silk covered hand and bid the messenger, a young boy really, to deliver his message.

"Your exellency, I have news that would be of interest to you."

Elsie sighed and let her gloved fingers rub at her temples. It was but seven in the morning, and the previous nights festival had lasted well past two. She had been planning on sleeping till at least nine when the gong outside her bedroom was rang, indicating that a message of some importance was being brought. With the lack of sleep, Elsie was not in the mood for the formalties, and was quick to snap at the boy.

"Be quick with your tongue messenger. It's obvious your words carry importance or my rest would not of been disturbed. Now have your say or be gone from my presence."

The boy bowed his shaved head further to hide his rose colored cheeks. He had not expected the fair empress to be in such a foul mood. She was always polite and courteous to her messengers, this was quite unlike her.

"As you wish. Word comes from Lord Hiro Kian from Juran that some unknown force has made its' way to the region. The slyans have also shown that a meeting is seemingly taken place around this new force, and that the great Lady Shalamar has been spotted amongst those in attendance. Lord Kian suggests that we send an embassador to convey our greetings and find out more about this new presence. It would also do us well to make our own presence known inside the region."

"Very well, prepare Harin for me. It has been some time since he has been used. I am sure he will appreciate the fresh air. If we are to make ourselves known, then no one else will do besides me, not even Lord Kian."

The boy bowed further as Elsie decended down the stair from her throne, her pink, silk komino glittered with every step as the rubies that addorned the garment sparkled as well. Her shoulder legnth jet black hair was in a high pony tail, and the boys eyes gaze lingered on her frame more than it should, and his cheeks went to a full blown red. As soon as the empress had entered her room and closed the door behind her, the embarassed boy hastily rushed to the stables and informed the stable master that Harin was to be Elsie's mount for her journey. Luckily for him, the stablemaster had already been working for the past two hours and was going to take the noble beast on a friendly ride this morning before his other duties were to be done. As it was, the stablemaster simply changed the saddles from that of a common saddle, to the beautifully crafted royal saddle that was built for the being ridden in the midst of battle. Hopefully, that would not be the case for some time.

Within ten minutes, Elsie was down at the stables fitted with the appropiate attire. Knee high ranger boots replaced her slippers that had been all but invisable under the komino, her komino was replaced with a heavy metal-pleated skirt along with an underlayer of a loose mail undershirt and lightly crafted iron breastplate, with rubies making the clear outline of a Sylan*. Her silk gloves were replaced by green archer gloves.

"Thank you for preparing Harin for me Jairiss, you're trully a gift to the dominion." As she turned toward her sylan, Harin, she rubbed his furry neck and addressed her pet. "It's been quite a long time since we last had a good long ride hasn't it Hiran. Well, now we're going on another long trip, so don't you get tired on me you hear."

As she mounted the beast, she paused to look around at her humble home. Though it was the capital of the Three Golden Kingdoms, she felt it was very fragile. It had taken hundreds of years, many lives being felled, and a tad of luck for the dominion to be forged as it were today, and yet she felt it could crumble at the slightest tug from outside forces. Yet she had to supress her fear for her lands, her fear would do her do good if she was to match wits with the likes of Shalamar. She leaned forward and whispered into Hiran's ear, "Let's show the world that we're more than just a sight to see. Let's show them that we're not something novel to be adorned, you and I will show them that we're all the more than we seem. You and I Hiran, just like Hero long before us. We will show them the beauty, grace, and honor. Let us go."

With the last words, the great Slyan spread his majestic wings and the full legnth of the creature was made visable. Taking three steps to get into a trot, the great creature was off the ground and taking Elsie to her destination, and hopefully to a future all those in the dominion would be proud of.

* A sylan is a creature with the head of a male lion, body of a green dragon, and the tail of a lion as well.

Edan laughed. The sound merry and dancing like the crackle of a fire.

"Forgive me, M'Lord. But there wasn't exactly "No cause" to her actions. I'm sure the others gathered here will agree that there was a feeling of unease when Asha’Man stepped out of the shadows. The bloody Darkness felt it necessary to put himself between me and your vassal. Are aware what kind of Omen that is considered to some?"

Keiran stood his ground. He looked more solemn than before, his smile having faded. He looked every bit his role as Darkness. He didn't move or speak as Edan continued.

"So she collected some celestial energy? It wasn't an offensive tactic. It looked as though Talisman was doing as Keiran was doing. Protecting the one she was close to. There was no issue, until you made your move, sir. There was unease and wariness, but you made took away her defense."

She laughed again, almost condescendingly so, "You can't pull the sword right out of a man's hand without a few others thinking it's a battle. The civil discussion may take a moment to assure now."

Three hundred years at life had given the woman some insights, but the arrogance of youth clung to her tighter than her armor. It wasn't hard to see the double standard maturity had on when compared the ages of the Sidhe.

Edan (http://ps3media.ign.com/ps3/image/article/808/808602/heavenly-sword-20070726063031105.jpg) bent down and slid her cloak over her shoulders.

"However, an international incident is not how we'd prefer to remember the birth of our nation."

"i would appreciate it if we could have a civilized discussion without the need to fight or harm each other."

The blade did not waver, and Shalamar's eyse never left his. She let the young Sidhe speak for her..

But once she was sure he understood the 'why' f her reaction she eased a bit with the sottoed voced comment "If I'd been ordered to wear that get up I'd be overly wary too."

Talisman blushed, and Maddy had to bite her lips to keep from laughing.
With a gesture the Lady of Cats Keep took care of that cause of discomfort and a cloak designed specifically for a Celestial's wings appeard falling into Talsimans hands with a sigh of soft fabric.

Then she took the sword and homed it in its sheath. "Your's is a power unfamiliar to us" But her looks clearly said Not for Long "And after the Dark War are unwilling to be caught off guard again." That was the closest she'd make to any thing resembling an apology. But the feeling of pressure, of impending storms died away, and the uncanny hush that had fallen over the land ended in a barrabe of birdsong.

With Shalamars sword now away from his neck the lord rose and introduced himself properly.

“Hello my name is Enpatsu Shakuga and I am terribly sorry for my assumption, once again i meant no harm, now can we just talk about what we came here for."

Enpatsu directed his eyes towards Asha'Man and spoke.

“Your presence is no longer needed please go home and inform the council that i am here and that i will need a new guard."

Angered by his lords decision he wanted to argue, but knew that it would only make the situation worse. Also he needed to stay on Enpatsu's good side if he expected to stay an ambassador.

Asha'Man sighed as he replied "Yes my lord i will give the word"

With that he tapped his ring and teleported into the hall of nexxus' council chamber.

" I should have known this was too big of a mission for someone straight off the front line, he still hasn't learned to control his powers in the presence of diplomats. Only time will tell if he is capable of being a guard and not an assassin."

Enpatsu spoke with a sign of relief.

“So Edan I guess i owe you one for handling the situation so brilliantly in a time of stress."

He said this while rubbing his neck and smiling ( a clear attempt to change the mood and lesson the tenson).

Aeris had watched the rapid change of actions, Shalamar drawing everything to a standstill with the blade at the Nexxan lord's throat. She watched the ambassador as well, but he was completely still, perhaps afraid, perhaps unsure what to do.

Before she could speak however, Edan spoke with diplomatic skill. Aeris listened as she did so, silently approving of the manner she had taken. She, like Shalamar, had all too fresh memories of the Dark War. The triumvirate of Abaddon, Lillit and Arithon had nearly singlehandedly destroyed the entire region.

But, there was something to be said for those that survived. Hope may have faltered...but it was never lost. And that hope, that desire that burned within the hearts of the oppressed Tarlachians had provided the strength to rise up and tear apart the strangled hold on the nation.

Aeris looked between all of them there, settling on Izual for several moments as she let her thoughts dwell on him. She'd speak to him later, when he was alone. Turning her attention to Edan and the others, she spoke, "Is there someplace you have arranged for your guests to at the least seat themselves?"

Edan's eyes widened as Aeris said this. The young Sidhe was still very much nervous around the elven empress of Tarlachia. However, to her credit, she didn't stutter or stammer. She didn't look fidgety at all. She simply stared wide eyed for a moment, taking long slow blinks. Her breathing was very slow. She was forcing a calm.

"The short answer is no. The king's advisors are...well," she looked pensive. An inner struggle played out on her face and she seemed extremely torn.

"She doesn't like the advisors."

A lovely green woman* (http://www.bibi.org/box/2007/09/poison_ivy.jpg) stepped out of the Sithen. Her skin was the color of moss. Her hair was kelly green with vines and flowers interwoven. Her eyes were rose, violet, and marigold. Her clothes seemed to be made of leaf. Flowers grew where she stepped.

"Does no one trust me to do this job alone?" Edan's annoyance saturated the air.

"What are you talking about?" asked the green woman. "I'm the first one they actually sent. The Darkness came out of his own volition. No one really asked him."

Edan looked pointedly at the Darkness. "You said the King was..."

The green woman interrupted. "Oh, He was curious about how long you were taking, but he never asked The Darkness to check on you. Why send an assassin for messenger work?"

Edan shook ever so gently with rage. She kept her emotions in check and addressed the crowd.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, Dianthe will lead you to your quarters. We prepared a room for each nation so that they could freshen up, rest and eat. Just in case the festivities ran long." She made a little face and muttered between gritted death. "Or take several hours to begin."

Dianthe smiled at the assembly. "You can wait here for the arrival of the other delegates with Edan. Or I can bring you inside to rest. It's really your choice. I'm sorry for all the confusion. The day wasn't as well planned as it could be. There were complications."

A dead bush a few feet away spontaneously combusted. Edan was seething.

*Closest picture I could find

Shalamar was the one that now had to bite her lip to keep from laughing aloud. She so loved politics, - she wouldn't tolerate them in her domain, but watching others? oh that was better than any comedy routine.

" I think I'll wait here"

Madrigal preteneded to not notice, though being a 'little sister' herself she could guess...and perhaps the ebon Sidhes interest was not brotherly at all., and that made it even less her business, though she made discrete and careful mental notes.. Rob would need ever observation she could recount of this their newest neighbor.

The Blue Anthem had, just weeks ago, collapsed, it's people left in a state of dire need. Tanaara had stepped in and had full humanitarian relief efforts underway. With no government in existance, they had quietly stepped in to bring the area under their control. The military had deployed to erradicate the many bands of briggands, predatory humanoid tribes and rookeries of demons that infested the region.

[i]And now yet another wilding lands comes under the control of a group we might have dificulty with, though I think thye are more honestly direct than the Golden Court[i] Madrigal shuddered, something had always bothered her about the Court of Light and Beauty...

"Unfortuantely The Militarized Zone will be unable to send an Dignatary, so they have asked that I speak for them as well" She advised the others belatedly with an apologetic smile.

"Talsiman and I would love a chance to freshen up" Madrigal smiled at Dianthe.

The wind whipped Elsie's (http://www.strategyfirst.ca/downloads/wallpapers/disciples3_elves_1024x768.jpg) hair around, pestering her eyes, but she didn't mind as long as she was with Hiran. The Sylan had been her companion over the last decade, since she was a small girl and he had been freshly hatched from a large turquoise egg. He was a gift from her uncle, Lord Kian himself, for her tenth birthday. It was customary for the royal family to each have their own sylan, but it was usually given at the age of sixteen, when the child was old enough to comprehend the immence power of the being, but Elsie's case was special.

Fifty years prior to her birth, a wandering elf had entered the kingdom of the Rosenatti and had asked for shelter and food from the royal family until the spring was near. With it being early January, it was still quite a few weeks until the weather would become springlike, and the harvest the previous year had not been as large as normal due to flooding in the late summer time. Yet Firo Fortuna, the Emporer at the time, decided that it would be wise to let the traveler make their temporary home inside their palace and allowed the elf to share the rations of the royal family. When spring came, the elf was preparing to depart from the lands, yet he requested a private audiance with Firo before he left. When Firo and the elf were alone, the elf moved to lock the door and Firo protested.

"If you brought me here to assanaite me elf, you'll find escaping from this Palace nigh impossible. We have fed you and gave you shelter as you asked and now you do this, why?"

"Elune does not need her messengers to explain their purposes to you mortal. However, you did provide me that which I requested, of which I am grateful. My name is Jurias Soldarian, son of Soldar Soldarian savior of the Elves Security Forces, and I am searching the world for those that Elune wishes to be blessed. I have traveled many nations over centuries of time and have only found three people worthy of Elune's blessing, I have now found a fourth. Open your ears human and hear the voice of Elune and accept her blessing without question and you may yet live up to your title of Golden Kingdoms."

The elves eyes shimmered and where their had been a hazel colored now was a deep green shade, softer than that of the males'. The voice was also in a higher, more feminine pitch, and was spoken in such a way that the audiance was awestruck.

"In two generations time, a young girl of your family will be born on the eights of August. This woman will not be human and will have no father or mother. She will be made of the Havens in my image, but will be guised as mortal. She will be deliverred in the arms of a Druid, one who goes by the name Harthgate. Give him the same comforts that you have provided Jurias and this lady will deliver your kingdom a blessing that will keep it golden. The Sylan will kneel to her, and when the world is turned to ash, she will bring the rains that will cleanse the world. This is my gift to you of Firo Fortuna, I give you this child, protect her as you would your own, and the Havens will also accept you family."

And so it was, the Druid from the far away country of Demot arrived fourty years later on August 7, seeking an artifact of his homeland. Firo's daughter, Shelsie, welcomed the druid with open arms. The next morning, when Harthgate visited the stables to examine the sylan, he noticed a basket beside a sleeping sylan, with a baby human girl wrapped in elven cloth. As prophesised, he deliverred the baby to Shelsie in his arms, and the empress took the child as her own. And so this is why Elsie was given her sylan six years earlier than normal. Of course she had no idea about her true origins or why things always seemed to go her way, but she had begun to master the latent divine powers that the Elven goddess had woven into her.

"So Hiran, I do think that these last three hours have nice and have allowed me to clear my mind, but I don't want to be flying for another twenty. What do you think, want to speed things up a little?" The great beast gave a roar that was easily recongized as agreement. "I thought so, let us not keep them waiting then."

As the duo passed through a cloud, Elsie drew a deep breath and slid off her archer gloves, securely placing them inside a pouch on the saddle. As a soft golden glow began to imminate from the center of her chest and spread up her shoulders and down to her fingers, the fabric of space around the duo began to blur, and with three spoken words "Akura Hai Sidhe" the sylan and his rider were ripped from their current position and appeared seconds later high above the group of dignitaries below.

"I guess it's time to say hello then..."

"But what do you know of the Lords of Nexxus...one comes dispatched from them."

Izual didn't show any physical reaction to the question but his senses were alert and he stood at the ready to act if the situation called for such.

"I'm afraid I know very little. When time permits I intend to learn much more about these emerging nations within the region."

Izual remained silent as several of the others greeted Asha’Man. There was something about him that radiated potential danger, whether it be directly from him or by what he could set into motion.

Noticing the hooded figure just as the bracelet hit the ground, Izual moved to draw his power but found it momentarily dwindled. Opting for a more physical means of protection, a black blade with a brilliant white hilt appeared within his grasp. There was not scabbard on his person and thus the usual sound of a blade being drawn did not occur, the blade was simply there, where it had not been moments ago.

Not making any further movements or speaking, Izual simply watched, ready to use his blade if necessary.

As the situation was slowly diffused, Shalamar sheathed her own blade but Izual decided to simply hold onto his casually, doing his best to not look threatening despite the somewhat terrifying 'demeanor' of his sword.

Eventually another sidhe appeared, this one obviously closely tied to nature and offering accommodation for the guests. Since Shalamar opted to stay where she was, Izual decided he would also remain put for the time being.

Senses still aware and and at the ready, Izual looked directly up before a voice reached his ears. Before him was a woman atop some form of flying mount he had never encountered before. Whilst her manner suggested she was not here to harm anyone Izual still remained on alert. His experience had taught him to trust no one and that had kept him alive thus far.

OOC: Damn. Elves shooting of magic and swords and half lion half dragon people. Looks like once again I'll hold down the reality spectrum. I'm working on a post here, but its a bit hard to stick someone like my FA minister in the middle of a bunch of elves and demons and such flashing their powers and pulling shit outa the middle of nowhere, lol. Let me see what I can throw together. Might be a bit later, I'm off now to go pick up some stuff.

"Of course, ladies." The green woman addressed Talisman and Madrigal. "If you'll just follow me I'll...God and Goddes, what is that?"

Dianthe looked up to see a beast she could never have imagined floating above the assembled group. It had the the head of lion, but it's body was that of a dragon. She blinked a few times at it. The creature did not land, but she could see a woman mounted on it's back. In all the millennia of her life she'd never seen anything like that.

Edan didn't look up. All of her focus seemed to be focused on the small fire that still burned in the spot where the bush combusted. The rage and annoyance spilled from in ripples. As though she were the pebble that broke the surface of a pond. The calm flow of feeling at odds with the intensity of the emotion.

Once again her breathing seemed to be slowed by force of will. The fire pulsed with the same rhythm. Every time Edan lost shook angrily, the fire seemed to get angry as well. It cracked, grew, or became hotter cyclically. Though it would stutter to a merry crackle with every stuttering, calming breath Edan forced into her body.

Keiran stood as still as a statue of onyx. His whole body seemingly focused on Edan, though he kept his distance. When Dianthe made exclaimed about the creature in the sky, he looked up. His head just swiveled to look up, while the rest of his body stayed facing Edan.

"I believe that is called a sylan. They belong to the royals of the Three Golden Kingdoms. She is probably their Empress." He spoke clearly enough for assembly to heat him. Then, just as quickly as he'd looked up, he returned his focus to Edan.

While he seemed blank and unmoving, his eyes-still quite hidden by his hood-flashed with worry each time the fire got out of control. He was far too rigid.

"I'm afraid I know very little. When time permits I intend to learn much more about these emerging nations within the region."

"Aye, I think I have neglected that of late myself. Perhaps we can work together" Shalamar replied to Izual in the privacy of their mental communication "That blade sings a deadly power, keep it handy for who"[i] Her thoughts stilled for a second and resumed with a faint trace of amusement [i]knows what might show up She barely glanced up, trusting Izual to keep an eye, while she turned her attention to Edan

A stray current of wind brought a whisper to Edan's ears alone. "Every time he gets under your skin, he wins you know. And do you want a mere male to do that" Shalamar's dry voice commented but it housed hints of a full grown laugh within.. If Edan looked over she would find the older woman facing her, unconcerned about what flew above, or it's rider.

While she'd not seen a Sylan before it didn't fall into the catagory of actively dangerous. Eden might be a different proposal, but the Lady of Cats Keep did things because of her own reasons and seldom bothered to explain herself to any.

Both Madrigal and Talisman had begun to follow the Sidhe, Dianthe, but stopped and took an alarmed step back at the sight of the Sylan. Dragons they knew - for though they were extremely rare in Tanaara, both had had the good fortune to meet on at the Royal Court. However lions were confined to the wilderness preserves - one of Tanaara's major passions was conserving the ecology as much as possible - but allowing lions to roam loose in the cities was beyond even their passion.

And who knew what such a hybrid might do. Talsiman moved to put herself between Maddy and any possible attack vector.

Elsie leaned forward and whispered to Hiran's ear

"Looks like we created a small scene. Best be down quickly before they get the wrong impressions."

Leaning against the bests right wing, Elsie carefully guided her moint down towards the meeting area, being vigilant so as not to have him come crashing down upon the dignitaries. Once they comfortably landed a few yards away from the group, Hiran kneeling forward to let Elsie demount, the Empress dusted herself off and then took a small curtesy.

"Greetings, I am Elsie Fortuna, Empress of the Rosenatti, the capital kingdom in the dominion of the Three Golden Kingdoms. This," she turned and stroked Hiran's furry neck,"is my loyal pet, Hiran. I do hope that we're neither late nor interupting anything important through our flashy entrance."

Edan anger faded a bit at Shalamar's whispered words. She turned to offer a private smile as the fire died out.

Though, she did want to explain that Kieran wasn't the reason behind her anger. He was really getting on her nerves, but he wasn't the driving force to her annoyance. Just as she was about to communicate this, Elsie landed. The redhaired Sidhe looked at Hiran in confusion. He was quite the interesting looking creature.

Edan regained her composure. She took a breath and all her confusion and anger slid out. She bowed gracefully.

"Welcome Empress. We were just finding out who wanted to go rest up, and who wanted to stay outside and wait for more guests to arrive. Dianthe can take you in." She turned to Aeris. "I don't believe we received your response, Empress Aeris."

"You can wait here for the arrival of the other delegates with Edan. Or I can bring you inside to rest"

Enpatsu decided that he would rather take a walk and think about what took place.

He stuck his hand in his pocket and took a black, gold trimmed and emerald centered ring out. Then he looked at Edan and spoke.

“Here when the meeting is about to start, just give the center a tap and I will be back immediately.”

He then insisted that Edan take the ring by walking towards her and sticking out his hand.

"No."

The one word hung in the air for a long moment.

"The King doesn't want people wandering around the nation unsupervised. So you can either wait with us, or go into the Sithen. But you may not go for a walk. I'm sorry."

A bit of Edan's anger returned with this explanation. It was becoming obvious that court, national, and international politics annoyed her. She turned her attention back to Eslie.

"We didn't think anyone would be arriving by animal. When you do come in would you like him brought to our stables, or will you bring him to your room."

"Aye, I think I have neglected that of late myself. Perhaps we can work together... That blade sings a deadly power, keep it handy for who knows what might show up."

Izual nodded, still keeping his eyes on the creature and the rider as they landed.

"Indeed, they seem to be popping up quite a lot as of late. I guess no one warned them the neighbor is a demon lord."

Satisfied that the newcomer was not a threat, Izual treated his blade as a mere cane, point resting on the ground as he leaned on the hilt gently. By no means did he appear as if he were about to use it but if anything did appear that may prove threatening he would be at the ready, instantly.

Refocusing on Edan, Izual noted she appeared agitated, something was evidently irritating her. A small smile crossed his face as he witnessed Edan deny Enpatsu's request. He got the feeling Enpatsu was one unaccustomed to not getting what he wanted and was interested to see how he would react.

"Indeed, they seem to be popping up quite a lot as of late. I guess no one warned them the neighbor is a demon lord."

Part of me is strongly tempted to say that a demon lord's bark is worse than his bite, but Arithon has no sense of humor and one war a millineum is enough thank you. About that time Perigrine's ten will have fully come into their powers and the next generation or five ready. Thats why she wanted the volcano you know. Shalamar commented silently to Izual.

"But you know I wonder what it is that the Unseelie, or at least their king does not want us to see." She spoke aloud, her voice containing far more than mere curiosity, oozing speculation. Oh yes, Shalamar could stir the pot with the best of them. And often did. But then again she could also provide distraction - welcome or un.

Edan's expression didn't change, really, but the smallest of ticks seemed to manifest in her jaw. When she spoke, however, it was a cool and as calm as she'd ever sounded.

"I truly don't know, Lady Shalamar. It could possibly be because of the Driads, pixies and such. They tend to play tricks on others. It would be unfortunate if someone were to get lost. It would be more unfortunate if they accidently injured themselves, or were attacked by something. Personally, I just prefer not taking the chance of spending a week in the Shadow Vault. You've heard of them haven't you?"

The Shadow Vault was an Unseelie torture chamber. When in it, Sidhe heal at the rate of mortals. Wounds that would take seconds to heal normally, take hours or days to heal in the room. There were much worse punishments that could be dealt out, but the Shadow Vault still wasn't an ideal place to spend your free time.

"Oh yes I've heard of them, but other than Madrigal, I have the strangest feeling that any of us here is more than competent to handle Dryads, pixies and even a selkie or dozen. And while you might end up in the Vaults by your Kings command, he is not my king and he really doesn't want to try enforcing his will upon me."

"And yes this is land your people have claimed, but it is at the let of the rest of the nations of Fatal Terrain that you do." Shalamar did not speak challengingly, but it was but the truth. The other nations of Fatal Terrain could have said, 'No" and enforced it.

"no"

He got the feeling Enpatsu was one unaccustomed to not getting what he wanted

The answer was not what he was expecting and it took him by surprise. However with the constant struggles between he and his nations advisors he had become almost used to the fact that he would nearly never get his way unless he was hell bent on getting it, this luckily was not one of those instences.

This time with a some-what confused expresion on his face he said.

" Well, then I will stay here and await my new guard then we will be heading up to our rooms to eat and rest."

Once Edan explained the situation in better detail he understood her situation and backed down, he could relate, mostly because of the forms of torture that have found their origin in the cities of Nexxus. Some of which he had been put through himself during times of war. He realized that he would not want to cause trouble for an aleady upset Edan, so he simply stood and waited for the arrival of Asha'Mans replacement.

Arriving, as usual, without warning and as silent as the grave, the Argonian diplomat appeared from seemingly nowhere, as if to materialize from their very shadows...

And that's just how he liked it...

The newest arrival was dark-scaled, an unusual attribute for an Argonian, but here he was none-the-less. Dressed in the finest of garments, and all black as death itself, he cut a dramatic figure making an entrance as he did. Clad in a tunic, bound at the waist with a leather belt, pants, and boots that came up nearly to his knees, he didn't look at all like himself. At the small of his back were a pair of knives the color of long-dried blood, arranged so a hilt faced either direction in a horizontal fashion. The knives, while not overly large, were perfectly sized for optimum percision at the closest of ranges while maintaining supreme balance and cutting power. In short, they were perfect for their assigned purpose: assassination.

Oddly, this one as here in a diplomatic capacity and not as a messenger, for assassins were indeed the best of messengers, if only for the worst of messages. He might have been known to those gathered here already, most likely to Empress Aeris if her memory would serve, for he had delved deep into the Hell-Realm at her side to reclaim her lost love from it's fiendish depths. No, gone were the rings in his fin-ears and the common clothes. There wasn't much he could do for the tattoos, but at least they were tastefully done, Argonian tribals winding down both arms in a pale gray ink etched into his charcoal and onyx scales, mostly hidden by the sleeves of the garment he wore beneat the well-fitting tunic, tapered as it was at the waist to leave little to the imagination in terms of his athletic prowess, but still loose enough to allow enough freedom of movement to evade and eliminate on a whim.

His dull golden eyes calmly took in those gathered, putting names to faces as he had done so often before. Behind the Zen-like calm, however, one could clearly see a subdued animal cunning and viciousness rarely set free, and caged against its will. The long tail that followed behind him seemed to have a life of its own, hovering just above the ground and coiling and uncoiling itself seemingly at random or of its own will.

Stepping silently as he'd done for generations, the Lonely Wanderer made his presence known, assuming the others, their perceptions heightened as they were, had not already detected him...

"I do hope I haven't arrived too late. It looks like I was about to miss the party like usual, but then again we aren't usually too high on the guest list, isolationist as my kind are. I am, as you might guess, here to change such perceptions..."

Even his speech pattern had changed, free of the common, crude language he typically preferred. It would look for all intents and purposes like he'd gone completely into diplomacy mode and was intent on improving regional relations...

Shalamar blinked. She'd met the Argonian master assassin briefly, as the group had readied themselves for Hell, but this was certainly a one eighty of unexpected proportions...or has some one been replacing people with pod persons. Shalamar wondered inwardly as she gave the Argonian a double take.

Then the Lady of Cats Keep cocked her head and addressed him "The Council sent you Grand Master Whiptail?

Talsiman closed her eyes for a split second "Maddie, I have to apologise. Utter strangers are doing such a fine job of appearing out of thin air that maybe we should have sent three or four of me. Though this gentleman is known but not for his ability as a diplomat"

Maddie nodded, for she recognised him from the tales Rob told, though he had never spoken of the dark Argonian as a diplomat, though perhaps bringing peace was apart of his more common activities - the peace of the grave. Rob had made him out to be a most interesting person. Perhaps she would have time to meet him more than superficially. In a setting where he would not be so intimidating. Though most every one here was intimidating - save for her- to one degree or another. I think they sent me because I'd be the least missed, if something went south. She knew the tiny bit of empathy she possessed was nothing compared to the powers the rest weilded.

"We didn't think anyone would be arriving by animal. When you do come in would you like him brought to our stables, or will you bring him to your room."

Elsie continued to stroke Hiran's neck and refused to have eye contact with the Sidhe. "He, will be fine in my room." A hint of distrust hung on the first word, but Elsie knew and trusted little about their so called hosts.

Her attention was caught however when the newcomer appeared and a chill went down her spine as her eyes skimmed his dark garments. Hiran himself let out a growl before Elsie moved her hand up from his neck to his mouth to quiet the beast. Be still Hiran, we are still guests for the time being. Not everyone here is going to be to our liking.

Whiptail angled his head slightly in greeting...

"No, Lady Shalamar, I have come because they asked me to do so. I serve none but myself and my homeland, and am here on her behalf..."

There was a bit of light-heartedness in his next comment, almost spoken with a chuckle...

"And don't look so surprised. I do clean up rather nicely when I want to..."

While it was true he wasn't a diplomat in the more common sense of the word, he was more than adept at using the art of speech to accomplish his goals. The word 'assassin' had become so associated with his former order that many forgot the primary purpose of the Shadowscales was to collect information, and diplomatic events were prime places to do such collecting. Words were always the first resort in any situation, for communication was the lifeblood of relationships of any sort, diplomatic or otherwise. The knife was always a last resort, and due to the stubborn nature of Argonian internal politics, the knife had become the better-known method of handling matters. These people, however, were not Argonians and Whiptail hoped beyond all hope that they wouldn't be as steadfast and uncompromising in their ways as his own kind were...

The presence of another dark-clad one piqued Whiptail's interest...

'Another assassin maybe? It would seem we have more in common with these guys than I thought... And I hope to Hell he's not an asshole...'

His very presence spoke of something more sinister behind the facades of these fae-folk, just as the alabaster skin could hide the rot and corruption of the soul. Either their customs were more Argonian than he had previously thought, or he'd come wearing the wrong outfit. He'd also need to quit thinking like he usually spoke, lest it come out at the wrong time and ruin relations between the Argonians and their new neighbors for centuries to come...

And while you might end up in the Vaults by your Kings command, he is not my king and he really doesn't want to try enforcing his will upon me.

Edan said nothing. She just looked away, her expression as blank and serene as before. The tic had faded.

Dianthe moved over to the red haired Sidhe and held her. Dianthe was a head shorter than Edan, but the fire Sidhe accepted the comfort. Keiran also moved to Edan's side, rubbing calming circles on the bare part of her back. While Dianthe seemed to be totally focused on Edan, Keiran's actions seemed unconscious. He addressed Whiptail.

"I've heard a lot about you." He smiled his first genuine smile. It wasn't teasing or cocky as his earlier grins at been. He seemed genuinely pleased. "This whole event may be interesting after all. The King will surely be happy that Argonia sent a delegate. Especially considering the shared border is so close to the new entrance to the Sithen." His smile broadened a bit. "Interesting, indeed."

As Keiran spoke to Whiptail, Dianthe murmured calming words in Gaelic, Irish, and Elvish.

"I'll send Sela out once I get the Tanaarian representatives settled." The words were whispered into Edan's ear.

Edan nodded gently, and Dianthe turned her toward Keiran more. She was soon resting against his chest. As Keiran was speaking he brought the arm he'd been using to rub Edan's back around her. His cloak covered most of her body. He rubbed her arms calmingly. The whole action was done automatically, as though he was used to doing this.

Dianthe turned to Madrigal and Talisman. "If you'd still like to come in I'll take you now." She addressed Elsie. "Would you like to come in now too, Empress?"

Whiptail's own expression didn't change much. That wasn't surprising, as the Argonian facial structure wasn't much good for expressing emotion. That was usually conveyed through body language and the movements of the tail...

"I am here to please, shadow-brother. I am known as Whiptail, of 'shadow-and-death' as your kind say..."

One interesting fact that Whiptail had noted was that the 'Sithen', a supposed magical living creature these fae communed with, sounded much like the name of the patron diety of the Shadowscale Order, 'Sithis', otherwise known as the 'Night Father' and the reciever of the murdered souls they sent to him in offering...

"Part of me is strongly tempted to say that a demon lord's bark is worse than his bite, but Arithon has no sense of humor and one war a millennium is enough thank you. About that time Perigrine's ten will have fully come into their powers and the next generation or five ready. Thats why she wanted the volcano you know."

Izual nodded in understanding, passing on a mental chuckle.

"Unfortunately his bite is no small matter. Arithon has always been an arrogant creature, he has spent eons conquering other worlds and realms, this is perhaps his first encounter that has put up a formidable resistance but that's not to say he could not cause more damage than he already has. I can't pretend to know the reasons behind his actions, he is a sly one."

The mention of Perigrine's ten sparked Izual's interest as he had only seen one of the creatures from a distance, once, and thus knew relatively little about them.

"Would I be correct in assuming these ten that you speak of are of Abaddon's blood?"

At that point Shalamar spoke aloud, taking a stab at Edan for reasons unknown to Izual. He did not care to rile the diplomat any further but he didn't feel any particular need to defend her either. Instead he chose to observe the exchange between Whiptail and the Darkness, both interesting characters in their own right.

With Enpatsu now curious as to why the new guard was taking so long.

They must be deciding which delegate to send, but what could be taking them so long.

In the next moment he noticed the small flash about 50 yards away. At first it was hard to tell but once he got a better look he could distinguish the residing seal on the ground and knew it had to be the replacement.

Once she was about 20 yards away he knew exactly who it was because of her distinguishing clothing and weapons.He also couldn't help but notice that she was holding his sword of skulls that he had left behind , when he came here.

" So I get one little sword to my neck and they send you."

" I guess you never were very good at first impressions now were you little brother. Here you must have forgotten this, i should have hidden it to drive you crazy."

Now speaking to the group gathered behind Enpatsu.

" Hello my name is Shana Shakugan, I will be watching over my brother."

Enpatsus sword ( http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v711/Eredh/Devil%20May%20Cry%203/Weapons/Weapon_DA_1.gif)

shana ( http://www.mtv.com/shared/promoimages/games/devil_may_cry_4/multiplayer_120707/character2/281x211.jpg)

"I am here to please, shadow-brother. I am known as Whiptail, of 'shadow-and-death' as your kind say..."

"Very good," chuckled Keiran. "If you were Sidhe, those probably would be your hands of power. Assassins should be the masters of shadow and death. They should also master presenting themselves in non-deadly situation. You seem to be doing that quite well, too."

OOC: Sorry, long weekend kept me away from the net...
IC:

Aeris was silent as more individuals arrived, the latest being the Argonian. Upon seeing him, she actually smiled to him. Upon hearing his apology for his arrival, and the state of his nation in international affairs, she chuckled.

While she didn't show it, she certainly was finding Whiptail to still have a number of surprises up his sleeve. She knew him to be a warrior, an assassin, but a diplomat? It certainly seemed his government was trying to develop excellently well rounded soldiers and civilians.

"Master Whiptail. It is a bit of a surprise to see you here, but nonetheless, I am pleased to see you." she called to him.

"Would I be correct in assuming these ten that you speak of are of Abaddon's blood?"

"Yes, very interesting. I have a keen interest in genetics, though I am no genetists, and Perigrine Omega says that it was but a hobby for her back in her home universe. Apparely her dam, a Pride matriarch was 'terrifyingly competent at it. She also says if he, Abaddon, hadn't had such a compulsion he'd have made a fine Alpha, very dominant genes apparently" Came her reply then she added

Notice their reaction to being made uncomfortable. They touch one another, seek solace in one another even if they don't necessarily like one another that much. Almost automatic. I'd heard as much but hadn't witnessed it first hand myself. The Court of Light and Illusion lies without even realizing it I think. Shalamar commented further.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"If you'd still like to come in I'll take you now."

"Certainly Lady Dianthe" Madrigal replied, made more than slightly nervous by the newcomer, apparently Enpatsu's sister. She felt disctincly outpowered, but she straightened, never outclassed!

Dianthe laughed. "You need not address me as Lady. I'm of no high rank in the court." She made a small doorway for the three of them to enter through. "I'm just one of the few in the inner court willing to deal with outsiders."

The entrance to the Sithen was a small corridor made of black marble with swirls of blue in it. Dianthe frowned at it.

"This isn't really what I thought the guests would be getting."

The Sithen shuddered and shifted angrily. The room was soon much smaller, with no doors. There was no sign of how to get in and our of the room. Dianthe cringed.

"I'm so sorry, the new Sithen and I don't seem to get along well."

"Perhaps you should be kinder to it," drawled a voice in the darkness.

Soon a small golden orb appeared above the head of an unnaturally handsome man. His skin was so white it was almost painful. You could actually see what looked like slivers of gold dancing under his skin. His hair was white and gold. It was cut short though. It made him look more handsome, if that were possible. But Short hair among Sidhe was not a good sign. He wore a mask over his eyes so they weren't visible to the trio of women. Dianthe didn't look impressed by him.

"I suppose you know how to make the Sithen following your bidding?"

"Sithen, could you please make the entryway more comfortable for our guests."

The Sithen shivered again and the room morphed. It was larger than it had been at the beginning. It was still made of black marble with blue swirls, but now the ceiling was higher. There were pillars and the door was grandeur. There were even comfortable looking chairs along the wall.

The male Sidhe grinned, "It's a good corridor."

Dianthe shot a man a look. "These are the representative from Tanaara."

"Madrigal, Talisman, This is Sela. Former maestro of the Seelie Court."

Sela smiled broadly, and bowed deeply. "It is an honour to meet you both. I hope you enjoy your stay."

Everything about Sela glittered and shone.

The corridor shifting on it's own was slightly intimidating, and Dianthe's cringing didn't help, but the arrival of the new Sidhe and the alteration of the Sithen was somewhat reassureing.

It is an honour to meet you both. I hope you enjoy your stay."

Madrigal remembered one of the bits of advice. Never thank the Sidhe, most of the older ones would very much take offense. She didn't understand why expressing gratitude was offensive, but she would question it later.

"Yes it is a lovely corridor. I like the black marble, and the blue veining stands out nicely." Madrigal let her appreciation color her voice.

"And we are most pleased to meet you, Sela... I am sure our stay will prove to be most interesting." She replied to him oh my he is handsome, but I have to be careful and remember not to make a fool of myself. Rob sent me because of my level headedness. And Talsiman because no Glamor will hold in the sight of a Celestial such as herself.

"Yes, very interesting. I have a keen interest in genetics, though I am no genetists, and Perigrine Omega says that it was but a hobby for her back in her home universe. Apparely her dam, a Pride matriarch was 'terrifyingly competent at it. She also says if he, Abaddon, hadn't had such a compulsion he'd have made a fine Alpha, very dominant genes apparently"

Izual nodded, his face remaining blank. Arithon considered himself a geneticist in a manner of speaking. Whilst he didn't play around with microscopes and DNA, he had other means of fusing the essence of one creature with another, to create hybrids with the strengths of both races. He had been the result of one such experiment. A demon perfectly hidden under the guise of a human, able to move about and interact completely undetected by those it sought to destroy.

"Arithon conducts similar exercises, assimilating whatever useful traits he might find into the next brood. They may all look very similar but you can almost be sure of it you will never meet one of his minions with the exact same properties, even if they are of the same class."

It became quite apparent there wasn't going to be a conflict in the area any time soon and thus Izual's blade simply vanished, as if it had never been there in the first place. If the need for it arose again, he could simply recall it.

"So are we expecting any more guests. I've noticed we're still missing a lot of the more mundane inhabitants of the region."

"So are we expecting any more guests. I've noticed we're still missing a lot of the more mundane inhabitants of the region."

Edan straightened up against Kieran. She seemed to be a bit more together. She was resilient, if nothing else.

"Yes, we were hoping that we'd get a delegate from every nation." She sighed as she scanned the area, seeing no one coming. "The King was really hoping to make an impression on each nation. If they don't show up soon, then we'll just head in. We'll set out warnings in case anyone else arrives."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Yes it is a lovely corridor. I like the black marble, and the blue veining stands out nicely."
"A lady who knows how to speak to the old magics. Quite impressive."

Sela smiled charmingly. Dianthe didn't look pleased with his actions.

"Edan's with the delegates. It seems she needs some comforting." Dianthe explained this in a tone that implied Sela should leave.

Sela's eyes widened. "You should have told me sooner." He bowed quickly to Madrigal and Talisman. "If you'll excuse me."

He ran out of the Sithen and was at Edan's side just as she finished speaking. He stood on the side opposite of Kieran. He placed a hand on Edan's shoulder to signify he was there.

The Red-Haired Sidhe smiled with gratitude and let herself rest comfortably between both men. Keiran shot Shal a cold look for a split second before focusing back on Whiptail with interest of what he might say next.

"Everyone this is Shal. He was the maestro of the Seelie Court before he came here. He is quite... entertaining." She smiled softly.

Shalamar ignored Keiran's cold look. She'd been been given looks by past masters of the art, and while the Sidhe might be impressive to some and deadly to others, his looks were just too pouty fresh faced underneath the obsidian hue for her to take seriously. But that unconscious arrogance was a part of her nature.

And the barb hadn't been that deep, and was absolutely true. She was not in anyway subject to the Unseelie Sidhe king's wishes. And they would do well to remember that.

"The King was really hoping to make an impression on each nation. If they don't show up soon, then we'll just head in. We'll set out warnings in case anyone else arrives."

"Kazar Tiyon rarely bestirs himself outside his lands, some say that he Sleeps, the Dragons of Khadrim too seldom leave their deserts, and none of those of Central Worlds, High Port, or Vashnear have shown themsleves since the Regional conference. Callisdrun too has not shown itself since then. I strongly guesss that we are the only ones who will attend, though it is not a reflection on you but on those who do not care to come."

"The King was really hoping to make an impression on each nation. If they don't show up soon, then we'll just head in. We'll set out warnings in case anyone else arrives."

Izual smiled softly, in a random effort to ease some of Edan's tension.

"Don't be too concerned if you don't get everyone turning up. From my observations I'd say it's near impossible to get a representative from every nation in this region in the same place at the same time."

"Kazar Tiyon rarely bestirs himself outside his lands, some say that he Sleeps, the Dragons of Khadrim too seldom leave their deserts, and none of those of Central Worlds, High Port, or Vashnear have shown themselves since the Regional conference. Callisdrun too has not shown itself since then. I strongly guess that we are the only ones who will attend, though it is not a reflection on you but on those who do not care to come."

Izual nodded in agreement but felt the need to add further comment.

"Khadrim is actually going through a bloody civil war like they have never seen before. I seriously doubt foreign relations will be a priority for them. I am somewhat surprised there isn't an Assingtonian presence though, they usually try to remain in the loop with regional events."

Whiptail snapped himself from his little stupor, bringing himself back to reality...

"Oh yes, I'm sorry... It's a pleasure to see you again Lady Aeris. I trust the husband is doing well?"

He was also eager to see what these fae-folk found 'entertaining'...

"Interesting... I'm curious to see what your kind call 'entertainment'..."

While he'd spaced out a little bit before, he'd need to stay focused and alert...

Edan nodded at the assemblies explanations as to why certain other nations wouldn't be sending delegates.

"How unfortunate about Khadrim's civil war. I'm not very knowledgeable about local geography quite yet. Are there any nations that haven't arrived, or for which we don't know a reason as to why they wouldn't attend?"

She then turned her focus to Whiptail's question. Shal and Keiran offered some responses as well.

"Interesting... I'm curious to see what your kind call 'entertainment'..."

"There are many things we find entertaining. We enjoy battle, poetry, dancing...."

"Torture," murmured Keiran

"Different forms of music," explained Sela.

"....Sparring, storytelling. Though our greatest form of entertainment is probably,"

"Sex." The three Sidhe spoke in unison.

"Though if you were just asking how Sela amuses me," Edan smiled at her specification. "I enjoy his musical talents, and he is a good lover. When he first join the court though, I just liked having the opportunity to play with Seelie flesh. It was," she ran a finger down Sela's cheek, "invigorating."

"Educational," murmured Sela.

"Time Consuming," drawled Kieran. "As is your explanation, A Stóirín"

"So sorry, A Thaisce"

Are there any nations that haven't arrived, or for which we don't know a reason as to why they wouldn't attend?"

"Imitorans don't believe in majick or psionics, don't deal well with non humans, and want to do a 'wait and see' bit before making overtures. Last I heard the Golden Simatar was having any one non human register or be slain." Shalamar said sourly. She really hated that sort of bigotry. Though the comment about Khadrims civil war has raised her eye brows ever so slightly. She had paid little attention to it, and had not realised it had gotten that serious.

We enjoy battle, poetry, dancing...." "Torture," "Different forms of music," "....Sparring, storytelling. Though our greatest form of entertainment is probably,"

"Sex."

The torture the Lady of Cats Keep knew about and didn't bother to hide the momentary disgust and revulsion that filled her, cruelity for cruelity's sake was not something she ws inclined to tolerate. There would be trouble if the Unseelie sought to provide it as part of the days entertainment.

and the last?

Sex was wonderful, but entertainment for the masses? Ah, no she liked her privacy. Though she could sit as blankfaced and bland as the best of them. Poker and some of the jokers that played it were such useful teachers of deadpan.

"However I should attire myself more formally." Shalamar commented softly and with a thought the doublet and pants were replaced with robes and veils of silk, hued in deepest crimson. Aeris, Talisman, Madrigal and doubtless Izual would know what they meant. A matrix, a quasi living starstone, crystal silver blue and gold, its depths shifting in slow quintessance gleamed at her throat.

Her sword would be at hand if she needed it.

There wasn't much surprise there, at least in Whiptail's eyes. Sex had been the favorite pass-time for every race he'd ever encountered, because if reproduciton wasn't fun then the race wouldn't continue. He was amazed that humanity hadn't wiped itself out centuries ago through over-zealous religious practices...

"Somehow I'm not surprised, but that's not a bad thing. We have much in common, though we tend to keep our intimacy to ourselves and not showcase it for the entertainment of others...

There was a little comment of his own, but kept deep within his own mind...

'Though there is a growing industry in that area, and it doesn't sound too different from looking that shit up on the internet...'

The topic of torture was another interesting venue of entertainment. A former assassin himself, he was no stranger to torture, nor did he enjoy the act himself, but there was a certain fascination to how the blade sang through flesh, how the blood dripped from an open wound, the various notes of the screams of the victim as each incision was performed. His long-time peer, Grandmaster Jekel Slipstream, had developed a borderline obsession with the details of knife-work and murder, working on victims of numerous races in search of weak-points and vital areas on their respective anatomys. It was an interesting, if somewhat distasteful and unpleasant science.

He'd learned a lot from watching his fellow Shadowscale work, it had made him the caliber of silent death-dealer he was this very day, but there was a feeling of unneedness to the whole affair. Stabbing someone just to see how heavily they would bleed from a certain area seemed like a task suited more for the assassination itself and not for a table within a dark and secluded corner of where-ever Slipstream conducted his trials...

"In terms of torture, are there any side benefits to your entertainments? Do you commit these acts only to please yourselves?"

Whiptail had borne witness to some seriously strange practices amongst vampires who practiced the 'S&M' activites on each other, things that would have been considered torture to humans. Hell, he'd seen humans do similar things to each other in the name of pleasure, so there wasn't much of a stretch to think that these Sidhe might enjoy similar deviant practices...

"Somehow I'm not surprised, but that's not a bad thing. We have much in common, though we tend to keep our intimacy to ourselves and not showcase it for the entertainment of others...
Edan laughed mirthfully, Keiran chuckled, and Sela blushed.

"I think we've misunderstood each other," grinned Edan. "You asked for entertainment. I didn't think you meant mass entertainment only. Sex, while some enjoy watching, is not really a spectator event. It's done in privacy, for the most part. As for your question on torture,"

"Torture in the Unseelie Court is done to show people what could happen, should they act badly," explained Keiran taking the lead. "There are many of us who find it amusing, but only in a sense of Schadenfreude. We admit to enjoying the darker pleasures, but few of us are sadists to that extent."

Edan nodded somberly at that.

Aeris nodded at Whiptail as he asked about her husband. Rob indeed was doing well, much better than his timeless entrapment in Hell. She however remained silent as the discussions turned to torture and sex. Aeris didn't mind the sex discussion. It was a normal, healthy part of living life. However, she disagreed with the notion that it could be "entertainment". She felt it was a private time between individuals to express physically their attraction toward each other. It was of no one else's business to show interest in such.

However, torture as entertainment, as she heard from the Unseelie, was something she truly did not like. Senseless pain, merely to emphasis one's power, would only beget failure in time. Arithon saw that truth when Tarlachia finally reasserted itself and its right to existence.

"You torture individuals who may or may not be guilty, simply to assert your national dominance?" She spoke up, her attention entirely on Keiran. Her eyes were challenging, betraying her calm voice. "How pathetic. You are naiive if you think that fear will be your unfailing path to success. You are weak if you cannot rule by restraining your anger and leading by example." She turend her eyes to lock onto Edan, "And you have my word that if I even hear anything of the sort while I am here...you will face wrath that could have been easily avoided. Anger and fear begets destruction, and cooperation begets peace."

She paused, looking around at the others before returning to Edan, "Then again, you're just a pawn yourself, so I cannot truly hold this against you. No, my words would be directed to your king, who is supposed to be your level-headed, wise enough ruler that would ensure the vitality of your nation." She gave a dismissing wave of her hand to accent her statement.

She crossed her arms, going silent. She had spoken calmly, but it was clear that she would not shy from speaking her mind if she so chose.

Izual remained outside the current conversation regarding what was deemed entertainment for those within Unseelie Sidhe, it really didn't concern him and he wasn't about to go on some moral crusade, unlike some of the others present.

Aeris' little rant amused Izual slightly, whilst he had nothing against Tarlachia and its people, she came across as a nagging mother at times, treating others like her children that needed to be scorned. Nevertheless, she had led Tarlachia through an invasion by Arithon's forces and thus had earned his respect.

Before things became any more out of hand than they already appeared, Izual stepped forward and spoke, his voice loud enough to demand attention but not shouting.

"I suggest we give Edan and her friends a chance to explain their customs further, to avoid confusion and thus unnecessary statements. We wouldn't want to see this gathering end on a sour note before it even really began."

Izual found it ironic that he of all people was playing diplomatic mediator here but it seemed if he wouldn't, no one else would.

"You torture individuals who may or may not be guilty, simply to assert your national dominance?"

The three Unseelie stood in silence for a moment. Edan and Sela looked contemplative, while Keiran's expression turned cold.

"Darkness," spoke Sela quietly. "Perhaps it's best if you return to your place by the King's hand. Politics do not seem to be your forte."

Keiran turned to Edan who nodded in agreement. He took his leave silently, with a quick bow at the assembled group.

"I suggest we give Edan and her friends a chance to explain their customs further, to avoid confusion and thus unnecessary statements. We wouldn't want to see this gathering end on a sour note before it even really began."

Edan nodded courteously to Izual. "Thank you for the helpful words. It's obvious that something is being lost in the explanation."

She turned to Aeris. "Empress, your speech confuses me. Keiran's comment about torture being entertainment was... inappropriate." She turned to Sela to confirm this was the right word. He nodded at this.

"However, we never in one moment stated that we punish the innocent. We do not torture individuals for confessions to crimes. We do not act out punishments without proper evidence. Treason and murder is met with torture. Lesser crimes are dealt with in a more, acceptable way."

She sighed, gently rubbing above the bridge of her nose.

"Keiran is old. Older than I can even fathom. He has seen many Kings and Queens take the seat of power in both courts. He remembers a time when his name was other than it is now. He speaks for himself, not for our the court. Please don't judge all of us by the opinions of our bringer of destruction."

She took a deep breath.

"On the other hand, you've insulted Valin. For no reason, at that. You've decided his policies, actions, and opinions based on the misinterpreted words of one man. Valin may be quick to action, but he is not short tempered. He is harsh, but he is fair. He believes in community, but he is very protective of his peoples. There have been no tortures in the five years since he's taken the throne. There are actually vanilla blossoms in the throne room."

"Now if you'll excuse me," Edan bowed. "There are some matters that need my attention before the formal introductions in court. Sela will take you to your rooms."

She turned quickly on her heel. Entering the Sithen quickly, she rushed based Dianthe and the two women with her in a whirl. A door opened to her left. She entered it, and once she had it disappeared.

Outside the Sithen, Sela addressed the group with a bright smile.

"Well, then let's all quickly enter the Sithen so you can all rest and freshen up. Perhaps everyone's moods will be better after a little rest and washing. Then you can all meet King Valin."

"She's really offended," he murmured to himself.

"You torture individuals who may or may not be guilty, simply to assert your national dominance?"

The three Unseelie stood in silence for a moment. Edan and Sela looked contemplative, while Keiran's expression turned cold.

"Darkness," spoke Sela quietly. "Perhaps it's best if you return to your place by the King's hand. Politics do not seem to be your forte."

Keiran turned to Edan who nodded in agreement. He took his leave silently, with a quick bow at the assembled group.

"I suggest we give Edan and her friends a chance to explain their customs further, to avoid confusion and thus unnecessary statements. We wouldn't want to see this gathering end on a sour note before it even really began."

Edan nodded courteously to Izual. "Thank you for the helpful words. It's obvious that something is being lost in the explanation."

She turned to Aeris. "Empress, your speech confuses me. Keiran's comment about torture being entertainment was... inappropriate." She turned to Sela to confirm this was the right word. He nodded at this.

"However, we never in one moment stated that we punish the innocent. We do not torture individuals for confessions to crimes. We do not act out punishments without proper evidence. Treason and murder is met with torture. Lesser crimes are dealt with in a more, acceptable way."

She sighed, gently rubbing above the bridge of her nose.

"Keiran is old. Older than I can even fathom. He has seen many Kings and Queens take the seat of power in both courts. He remembers a time when his name was other than it is now. He speaks for himself, not for our the court. Please don't judge all of us by the opinions of our bringer of destruction."

She took a deep breath.

"On the other hand, you've insulted Valin. For no reason, at that. You've decided his policies, actions, and opinions based on the misinterpreted words of one man. Valin may be quick to action, but he is not short tempered. He is harsh, but he is fair. He believes in community, but he is very protective of his peoples. There have been no tortures in the five years since he's taken the throne. There are actually vanilla blossoms in the throne room."

"Now if you'll excuse me," Edan bowed. "There are some matters that need my attention before the formal introductions in court. Sela will take you to your rooms."

She turned quickly on her heel. Entering the Sithen quickly, she rushed based Dianthe and the two women with her in a whirl. A door opened to her left. She entered it, and once she had it disappeared.

Outside the Sithen, Sela addressed the group with a bright smile.

"Well, then let's all quickly enter the Sithen so you can all rest and freshen up. Perhaps everyone's moods will be better after a little rest and washing. Then you can all meet King Valin."

"She's really offended," he murmured to himself.

Aeris watched as Edan took her leave quickly, clearly upset over what had just transpired. Aeris felt no remorse however, and thought that it was a poor decision on someone's part to allow the assassin to speak such a statement as he had to the people who had come to meet them. While he may not have been the "face of international affairs", he should have known that anything he spoke to the visitors could be easily taken offensively; especially when he was one of the first three individuals to greet them. It made her wonder if all the people of the king's court spoke so freely as to potentially disengage promising alliances with mere words. Such things had happened before after all.

Casting a glance to Izual, she nodded to him, showing her appreciation for his words. Another glance to Shalamar before she turned her attention back to where they were being led. She hoped the king was better at words than his subordinate guardian.

Whiptail moved a tad bit closer to Aeris, within whisper range...

"That 'Darkness' guy isn't a people-person, just understand where he fits into this little puzzle and that comment of his makes a whole lot more sense. He, much like myself, does the king's dirty work, but keeps his tasks out of the public eye. Taking that into consideration, I'd just ignore whatever he says from now on in reguards to torture..."

Whiptail fully understood the issue, and wasn't determined to make something of it. What people did in their own nation was no business of his, unless something was done within the borders of his own nation to warrant such attention. He took a step backwards, increasing his distance between the elven woman and himself so as not to warrant undue attention, and he hated attention of any sort as a rule anyway. Kerian had just made Whiptail look that much more impressive, come to think of it. Where the fae assassin had failed to use his speech as effectively as his blade, the dark-scaled Argonian was still as composed as he'd been when he'd appeared...

"Perhaps we should speak to your king ourselves? I'd hate for one of his underlings to ruin a potential alliance with one of their neighbors..."

Whiptail also found it odd that one of Arithon's servants would defuse a simmering conflict in such a way. He'd been under the impression that his kind welcomed violence in all aspects, or maybe he was just waiting for the right opportunity to strike. As always, he'd give the man, if he was actually human underneath the exterior, the benefit of the doubt and focus on the task at hand...

Shalamar, while she may have let her distaste for torture appear on her face but had with held any words, nodded at Izual's words of moderation.

"I suggest we give Edan and her friends a chance to explain their customs further, to avoid confusion and thus unnecessary statements. We wouldn't want to see this gathering end on a sour note before it even really began."

Aeris wasn't usually quick to judge, or so vocal, but being part elvin herself might have had some inside knowledge that prompted her. None of Cats Keep's 'native' elves were Sithen dwellers, or overly conversant with that culture.

"Perhaps we should speak to your king ourselves? I'd hate for one of his underlings to ruin a potential alliance with one of their neighbors..."

And Whiptails words, as well, were wise ones. Shalamar herself had never been a 'people person' and knew well the pitfalls of that nature. It was something she had worked hard to overcome, and never had fully suceeded at.

"On the other hand, you've insulted Valin. For no reason, at that. You've decided his policies, actions, and opinions based on the misinterpreted words of one man. Valin may be quick to action, but he is not short tempered. He is harsh, but he is fair. He believes in community, but he is very protective of his peoples. There have been no tortures in the five years since he's taken the throne. There are actually vanilla blossoms in the throne room."

That produced raised eyebrows from Shalamar and a contemplative look. However the comments of "Torture in the Unseelie Court is done to show people what could happen, should they act badly" and this When he first join the court though, I just liked having the opportunity to play with Seelie flesh. It was, invigorating" would not be forgotten. There-in lay possible problems

"Well, then let's all quickly enter the Sithen so you can all rest and freshen up. Perhaps everyone's moods will be better after a little rest and washing. Then you can all meet King Valin."

"Your word are wise Sela, but I'd suggest not too much time for resting and washing. Sometimes time is not a good thing to have." Shalamr commented as she prepared to follow the Sidhe inside.

As she did so she looked around the group, catching Aeris's eyes specifically, as the Tarlachian Empress had caught hers earlier.

"One thing we all need to remember is that there also may well be a language barrier. My Elvin is obviously not the same as theirs, and I am no Xas able to translate any language instatnaenously...Though maybe I ought to fetch one..." She said the last half under her breath...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Madrigal watched with wide eyes as Edan rushed passed the small group just inside the sithen as if they didn't exist. "Oh I hope there has not be an occurance outside" She said worriedly as she looked first the way Edan had come and then in the direction she had gone. Talisman contented herself with just a concerned look.

Sela turned to Shalamar.

"The wait will be brief, I assure you. There are simply some matters that need tending to. While she may seem rash, young Edan is the gem of Valin's guard. However, she's 300." Sela said 300 the way a human might say 19 or 21. While she may be an adult, there was an acknowledgment that she might not be as seasoned as others.

"She's been under Valin for a very long time. Her youth makes the Lord and Ladies of the Court question her judgement. It's quite easy for the Older Ones to make her uneasy. They don't think she has any claim over them, so she doesn't think she can control them. Also she and Valin..." Sela shook his head, and smiled brightly again.

"Once Edan's cleared out the throne room for your audience, we will retrieve you all. Sithen please make entrances to the delegates rooms."

A row of doors appeared along the wall.
"Your quickness is appreciated."

He addressed the whole group. "It should only be a moment. I'd advise you to take this time to think out what you want to discuss. Indelicacy and a lack of tact was our problem up until now. Ask the Sithen if you need anything."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Oh I hope there has not be an occurance outside"
Dianthe frowned in the direction of the entrance.

"I'm sure it's nothing. Sithen, may I have a door to Ms. Madrigal and Talisman's room?"

The wall shuddered and a open door way appeared. The room inside has two large comfortable beds, an insuite bathroom, and a desk.

"If you require anything, just ask the Sithen."

OOC: All the rooms look the same except most only have one bed.

"If you require anything, just ask the Sithen."

"We shall Dianthe, and the room is just lovely Sithen." Madrigal stepped into the room.

"Yes and oh the bed is big enough for me and my wings" Talsiman said happily as she followed Madrigal within "That is greatly appreciated Sithern, it's not something others think to notice."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"It should only be a moment. I'd advise you to take this time to think out what you want to discuss. Indelicacy and a lack of tact was our problem up until now. Ask the Sithen if you need anything."

Shalamar looked at the others and asked bluntly " Washing and resting are fine. But you know ducks in a row are better. How 'bout we have a sit down confab in my room. That way we don't miss any questions, concerns and other issues"

Whiptail was more than a little cautious about entering a doorway that suddenly appeared out of what was basically nowhere...

"Uh... Thank you, Sithen..."

It was apparently alive, after all. The room was suited to a wide array of general species, but apparently one of those species was the Argonian type and Whiptail simply seated himself in the nearest chair...

"Uh... Thank you, Sithen..."

The floor slanted gently beneath Whiptail's chair making it tip. Sela watched as it happened. He cringed slightly.

"I forgot to say. Don't thank the Sithen. For some reason it, along with some of the older Sidhe, take "thank you" as an insult. I never knew why. It's better to compliment it than to thank it."

Shalamar chuckled low at the Sithen's reaction to being thanked.

"Just consider it very Japanese, where thanking it implys an obligation, but it's one you can't return so therefore it gets huffy. And appreciation instead implies a balance instead of an imbalance. In the Shadow Realm many of Cats Keep's structures were the same way, alive in their own way and" She searched for a word, finally setting on "...Choosy"

"Though I think not quite as adaptable as the Sithen is."

Izual followed everyone as they moved into the Sithen, pausing for a moment before he made the final step. For a moment he thought he could sense the taint of one of Arithon's minions nearby. It only lasted a second but it was strong enough to cause concern.

Staying alert, Izual stepped into the Sithen and caught up with everyone else, although his stance made it quite clear he was on edge, ready to lash out if need be. Not being distracted by the novelty of the Sithen, Izual moved into the room he was provided and sat on the bed, considering whether this place was able to prevent any of Arithon's kind from entering. He was quite sure it could not be accessed through the veil as this place was technically another world but he couldn't say anything for sure.

Aeris nodded as Whiptail made his commentaries. He may have been an assassin, but he was more than what met the eye. It was one of the reasons why she liked him as much as she did. Turning to look at the doorway formed by Sithen, Aeris watched as it reacted to Whiptail's appreciation.

She spoke under her breath, "One would think that the Sithen would be knowledgeable about outside behaviors and customs different from its own." As she was thinking on this, there was a nagging feeling in the back of her mind that something was amiss.

It was also the kind of nagging that she was well familiar with. However, it was gone as quickly as it had appeared. She turned to Izual, watching him as he entered his own room. Then, silently, she entered her own.

Once inside, she gave the room a glance, nodding to herself. At least these people knew how to stock a private room with the right things. She had to admit that so far, while there had been some...disputes, that at the very least, these Unseelie Sidhe would be a possible ally of significance should there be other wars to ravage the region.

You're thinking too far ahead, Aeris. she scolded herself mentally, Focus on the here and now. You know little about them, and now, you're inside their Sithen...and you're definitely not liking the odds here.

She looked upward from the spot on the floor she had mindlessly focused on while immersed in her thoughts.

"Sithen," she called out, "Would you please open a door to Lady Shalamar's room?"

There was a long moment before the Sithen responded to Aeris's request. Some would claim that the Sithen was considering it's reactions, others would say that there were just too many requests for the Sithen to react quickly.

A wooden door formed on the wall next to the desk. Wooden etchings carved themselves into the door, then a doorknob appeared.

Whiptail understood what was going on here...

"This is a wonderful chair, Sithen. It pleases me very much to sit in it..."

Inside his head, however, he was thinking something much different...

'It would also please me to meet this king of theirs and get the Hell out of this magical living real estate thing with an attitude problem... I wonder what it would do if I told it to go fuck off?'

The chair bucked beneath him, but he kept his seat. The whole Japanese concept struck home with him, he'd studied with the Ninja a very long time ago as an exchange student from the Shadowscale Order, but his manners in that reguard were pretty rusty...

"I think we ought to go see Lady Shalamar and see if she knew what the problem was. Rob told me to look to Aeris and she for guideance if I felt anything was off." Madrigal felt suddenly isolated. The ability of the Sithen to change itself was novel but a little disturbing. What if suddenly we can't leave? She thought and a look at Talsiman let her know that her best friend was thinking the same thing.

"Sithen may I please have a door to where Lady Shalamar is" Maddy said softly but firmly.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Shalamar noted that no one followed into the room assigned to her. Oh well so much for co-operation, but then again when ever did Fatal Terrain join forces unless forced to. Look at the huge failure our regional conference was Her thoughts were sour but very definitely kept to herself, her formidible mental defenses making sure that no one could pry them from her.

Looking around the room she took note if the various luxuries with no special favor. She wanted this to be over and done with, though she was well aware that she was being uncharacteristically bitchy. No, I'm not. I'm a Bitch and I well know it. But something here feels off, more than the Unseelie themselves, and I can not wuite suss it out. Asd that annoys me and shortens my temper." She sighed to herself and sought patience.

"Beautiful." Aeris commented as she watched the door appear, although she honestly didn't think much of it. She felt uneasy still, but pushed those feelings deep inside, encapsulating them under 'deal with later'.

For now, she opened the door, and saw Shalamar standing there. Her thoughts were open enough for Aeris to catch the tail end of her silent fussing, and so she simply let the older woman ride it out before she linked into her old friend's mind. However, Aeris and Shalamar had a sort of mental connection that was open to all of each other's thoughts save for the ones desired to be kept absolutely secret. They held a mutual measure of respect and agreement to not manipulate the other through this means of communication.

You're not the only one to feel that way, dear friend. I too am quite uneasy about this place, although I imagine that you and I can with some effort get out without much trouble. As for the others though...if things went sour, I'd admittedly would feel an obligation to at the least offer them one chance to get out.

She halted several feet away crossing her arms in front of her. She sighed quietly as she watched her friend. What do you make of these Unseelie?

Yes I know I'm fussing,but something has me entirely too uneasy. Certain things...I do not like that they left some one with little to no aparent diplomatic training out to wait for us, that the Kind apparently has little control over his people, so so it seems. They talk out of both sides of their mouths and while are not specifically false, seem to be such...or maybe it is as I mentioned a language barrier and misunderstandings.

She looked aound, letting silence fall between their minds for a moment And I'm honestly now sure how much power it would take to get out of here if things went hostile. I don't think they've realised that I've girded for war, but on the whole I don't care if they do. Some times it's better to be aggressive, than get trapped. And Underhill, wether light or dark can be one very strong trap.

The outcry sounded from many of the Lords and Lady of the court. There were too many outsiders in the court. Why didn't we do this sooner? Why wasn't the meeting in front of the full court? Why had Valin told the Sithen to listen to these people? What if the Sithen got angry with the visitors?

It was all quite tiring. Edan sat close to Bryce. Bryce was one of Edan's closest friends in court. He'd taught her how to present herself in court, and she'd learned quite well. He'd given her a hard whisper, though, when she'd explained about the issue outside. Valin hadn't been entirely pleased, but he let the moment slide. Edan had never interacted with non-fey before. She knew a great deal about other fey cultures and practices, but had yet to start fully comprehending the beliefs of the nations around her. Ignorance is a powerful weapon against yourself.

Bryce had been given his name because of the odd markings that covered his face. No one was quite sure as to what they were for, but they were all waiting to see. His hair was a lovely shade of violet the he kept in loose ponytail. His skin was a wisteria, except for the marking that were royal blue. Bryce was never one for armor. Today he was wearing black books, blue jeans, and an indigo dress shirt. He had a black shoulder holster on his right with an automatic revolver in it. He was also carrying his sword on his left hip. He was 6'2" tall and well muscled. He'd been on the Royal Guard for three generations, which added up to about 4 thousand years. He'd been two hundred when he'd started.

The meeting continued, until finally the members of the court had to be ordered to leave. It was quite insulting. All that were left in the room were some of Valin's advisors, Bryce, and Edan.

"Well, I do believe it is time to meet my guests. Bryce please go with Edan to retrieve the delegates. I have some," he paused, "private matters to discuss with my advisors. I'll keep Weylin here as my guard."

Bryce and Edan bowed and exited the throne room. As they made their way up the hall, Bryce said to Edan what he'd wanted to say since he'd gotten the report.

"Keiran isn't as politically saavy as you'd think he'd be, is he?"

"He knows how to play the court, yes, but outside politics don't seem to be his forte. Besides, he's of the old court."

"True. I think it's hard for an old War God like him to understand you don't discuss torture with the guests. I mean, that's almost as bad as...."

Edan sighed softly. "The advisors had pissed me off. I hate having to wait. I just couldn't get my mask in place to deal with diplomatic issues."

Bryce smiled and squeezed Edan's shoulder.
"Maybe when you're grown up."

Edan laughed along with Bryce. They went through another door and entered the hallway where the delegates were staying. Bryce rapped on Whiptail's door first.

sorry been really busy the last two weeks with some big test/exams
With Enpatsu and Shana now in thier room, they were having a typical quarrel between the two.
" I can never leave you out of my sight can i brother. It still baffels me as to why they would leave a diplomatic posistion in the hands of Enpatsu instead of my other brother, he is so much more qualified with talking to fellow diplomats.
" Shana I can take care of myself , if i was truly concerned that i was in danger that sword would never have touched my neck. I ,unlike you, fight on the front line and know what it takes to lead others into believing that they are much stronger than they truely are, so that they will leave themseles open for me to make my move"
Now talking under his breath " Thats why you work for me"
Staring at Enpatsu I heard that, you dont want me to make you cry again now do you? Trying not to chuckle.

OCC: Likewise have I been extraordinarly busy the last few weeks with exams and classes. I hope that is all behind me and can make regular posts!

IC: Elsie had remained quiet as the others had their spats and discussions. She felt out of place amongst the collection, she was a young empress of a small power in a group of the most priesiegious individuals in the region. Then with the looks that she had gotten for riding in on Hiran, it did not help ease the feeling that she did not belong. To be honest, she was star-struck, and had lost her train of thought. As she noticed the others begining to enter the Sithen, she paid attention at how the other dignitaires manipulated it, and proceeded to do the same. Once she and her pet had entered their "room", she decided to make herself comfortable and wait for when they would make aquaintances with the ruler(s) of the Unseelie.

"Oh Hiran, what have I gotten myself into this time?"

Bryce frowned at the door. "He's not answering."

Edan shrugged. "He could have taken my advice to rest up seriously. Maybe he's having a nap."

"Maybe..." Bryce went over to Izual's door and knocked.

Izual had been sitting upon the provided bed in light meditation, considering all the things he had learned in his recent encounters. Whilst he considered himself a perceptive man he'd found that a little reflection and meditation could reveal details that he had otherwise overlooked.

Opening his eyes upon the knock at the door, Izual rose off the bed and moved across the room, opening the door to find Edan and another man standing before him.

"Greetings..." Bryce turned to Edan. The red-head laughed.

"Hello again, Izual. This is Bryce. He has come with me to fetch all the delegates to come see the king."

Bryce smiled good naturedly. "I'm the delivery boy." He shrugged gently. "Do you likey your room?"

"Hello again, Izual. This is Bryce. He has come with me to fetch all the delegates to come see the king."

Izual nodded in understanding and moved out of his room as the pair indicated they would be heading towards wherever the king was.

"Yes, the room is more than I require, the extra comforts are appreciated."

Izual didn't really smile but his manner was pleasant enough and he didn't seem to have any problems getting along with Sidhe, as opposed to some of the other guests.

"This is an intriguing place, this Sithen. I have been to many worlds in my travels and yet never come across anything quite like this."

Remembering the feeling he'd noticed before entering the Sithen, Izual posted a question to his two hosts.

"I hope this isn't too forward but how strong is the security of the Sithen? There are forces within the region that would certainly attempt to gain entrance and cause trouble, if the opportunity exists for them."

I hope this isn't too forward but how strong is the security of the Sithen?
"Well, first of all whoever was trying to get in would have to have enough magic to find the door. Though I'm rather sure what kind of forces you are speaking of." Bryce replied seriously. "The Sithen protects itself quite well. If someone tried to break in the door probably wouldn't appear. Or the Sithen would attack it. Also, we usually have guards posted at the entrance. There are probably some new guards there now."

Bryce paused to take a breath.

"Furthermore, there are a lot of booby traps through out this place. A wrong turn could be quite the disaster. You may walk into one room thinking it's the King's Chambers and end up falling into the Pit of Eternity."

"That would be our magically bottomless pit," explained Edan. "Though you can't really fall in it, I'm pretty sure you have to be tossed into it."

Bryce shrugged before continuing. "Chances are that if an unknown came in the Sithen just wouldn't respond to it. They get trapped in the Entrance Hall."

"Besides," murmured Edan with a soft shrug, "the door has a tendency to move."

"I remember in the old Sithen, you got trapped outside for hours. It was really funny because you'd just..."

Edan placed a hand on Bryce's mouth.

"Such stories would bore our guest, I'm sure."

Bryce licked Edan's hand, so that she pulled away in shock.

"I don't think it's boring, but if you'd rather I not tell it I won't." He addressed Izual again. "Do you have any other questions?"

Izual shook his head slowly.

"No, I think that covers everything. I'm sure you will likely meet the demons of Lord Arithon soon enough but it sounds as though the Sithen is more than able to protect you from the threat he poses."

Based upon the description of the defences, it would take Arithon himself or at least some of his high ranking officers to even breach the Sithen, let alone do any damage within. This filled Izual with some confidence, knowing that he could establish friendships with the Sidhe and if need be, have a place of refuge from Arithon's constant hunters.

Whiptail poked his head out of the doorway in a stealthy manner, watching the pair of Sidhe move onwards to Izual's quarters and turn their backs to him. Answering the door was certain death if you expected an ambush, better to let the hunter come to you and allow yourself to position yourself for the killing blow before your would-be killer had the chance to react. It fit his personal motto of 'Always Cheat, Always Win' perfectly. Seeing the encounter between the two proceed smoothly, Whiptail himself exited the room, and he was glad to do so to be away from the mavolent presence of the Sithen itself. Moving in his usual quiet manner, he advanced towards the two messengers...

"You rang?"

He kept his tone level, but firm. The intentions of these strange folk weren't yet clear, and he wasn't going to be caught off guard...

Bryce turned quickly to face Whiptail. He gave a half bow.

"Yes Master Whiptail. We were just collecting everyone so we could begin the delegates meeting with King Valin. If you're ready to head over, we'll seek the others and go now. Do you like your room?"

Bryce smiled with pleasant curiosity.

Edan was off knocking on all the other doors.

The former assassin nodded. The quarters were a little more plush than he was used to, but that wasn't actually a bad thing...

"They're nothing short of excellent, but I don't seem to get along with the Sithen. No matter, it seems we're close to concluding my business here..."

The Argonian jaw wasn't exactly evolved to smile, but Whiptail made his best attempt, more of a flexing of the jaw muscles than anything...

"And you are?"

Shalamar turned as she heard a suddenly appearing door being knocked on

"I think thats our cue Aeris. After you, youth before beauty" The older woman teased - she was neither young nor beautiful -the best that could be said was that she had a face full of character.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Maddy blinked as just seconds after a door appeared in response to her request, it was knocked on "Well it seems that there may not be enough time to check in with the Lady of Cats Keep"

"Or maybe she is checking on us" Talisman offered as she moved to answer the door.

Edan smiled cordially at Talisman. "King Valin would like all the delegates to come see him in the Throne room."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Bryce grinned crookedly. "I'm Bryce. Just another member of the guard like Edan. The King thought it best you all see the males members of the guard are more, pleasant then the Darkness. He tends to be a bit...unused to speaking with non-sidhe."

Bryce's grin shifted into something smooth and more political. For a brief moment his face marking flickered across his face like lights on the water.

"I hope we aren't keeping you from other pressing business."

"King Valin would like all the delegates to come see him in the Throne room."

The young Celestial smiled at Edan, then turned to Madrigal "The King.." She started but found that her friend had closed the distance and had heard Edan quite clearly.

They shared a look. Maddy was outwardly composed but Talisman knew her well enough to know that she could see the worry in her eyes. There was a lot of pressure on the young womans shoulders, for this was her first assignment.

"I'm ready" Madrigal replied and the two women left the room to join Edan and the others in the hall.

Edan lead the two women into the hallway. Bryce smiled at her.

"Is that everyone?"

Edan shook her head gently.

"No, there are still three people yet to come."

Bryce nodded with understanding and they waited.

"I think thats our cue Aeris. After you, youth before beauty" Shalamar had said with a smirk upon her face. Aeris returned the smirk with one of her own.

"Dear Shalamar...ever as noble." she replied, opening the door to come face to face with their hosts. For a moment, she wondered if they were surprised that she was not in her own room. Pushing that thought aside, she listened as they explained the purpose of their visit.

"Very well, let us not keep the king waiting." she replied with a professional smile. She glanced toward Whiptail, noticing that he too was on edge. It was the practice of seasoned combatants...always expecting the unexpected.

"Very well, let us not keep the king waiting."

Shalamar looked as cool and calm as peach tea but her lips quirked a tiny smile as she murmured under her breath "Of course kings must never be kept waiting. Though someone, who thought themselves amusing, once said that 'Once a king, always a king; but once a Knight is enough"...I cured them of that notion post haste."

She followed Aeris out, with a small nod of her head to acknowledge Whiptails alertness. She was not as unconcerned as she carried off, but then again she'd had thousands of years to learn to hide exactly what she wished to hide and let nothing out she didn't intend.

Bryce bowed when Edan made quick introductions.

"It is an honour to meet the both of you." He turned to address Edan. "Who is missing, now?"

"Empress Elsie of the Three Golden Kingdoms."

Bryce nodded with acknowledgment. He looked back toward the throne room.

"I don't think we can put this off any longer. Could you call your musician to wait on her?"

A secretive smile passed between the the purple man and his red haired friend. There was a flash of something between them before Edan turned to the wall, asking for a mirror. It took her a moment to get a hold of Sela. It seemed he'd run off to his quarters to retrieve his flute for a performance later that evening. Edan told him the situation and the former Seelie was in the corridor in a minute flat.

"Very well," smiled Bryce broadly. "Off we go."

He and Edan led the way to the waiting area before the throne room. There was a lovely mix of dark marble, flowers, and gold and silver adornments. The door was huge, with many carvings in the dark mahogany wood.

"Is there anything I should know before we go in?" Bryce asked the question to the door, so no one could be sure who he was addressing.

OOC: I'm giving this post three days, then I'm just going to go forward with it. Whether I get answers or not. but please answer me

Shalamar followed Bryce and Edan quitely, but making mental notes and keeping an observant eye on every thing about the small group. She gave a reassuring smile to Madrigal and talisman when they joined the group heading to the throneroom.

The young Tanaaran's gave her back smiles that hid no little relief for they were beginning to be very uneasy.

Shalamar hid a frwon at that and wondered if it had been wise for the Tanaaran's to send the two ladies 'here' on their first posting. Though she knew both of them were bright and well educated...and not as harmless as they seemed.

Elsie was preparing the list of questons she intended on having answered in her mind when Hiran began to give a low growl.

"Hush over there, I'm trying to concentrate you!."

Despite the reprimanding, the Sylan kept up the growl. When Elsie refused to give him acknowledgement, he flipped his tail and whipped her cheek with it.

"Hey, what was that for? Now is not the time for playing. When we get back home, I'll take you out for a nice ride, but let me do what we came here for ok?"

As she moved a step away from the beast, she heard a faint sound coming from outside the door. She wasn't sure if she had really heard anything, but something in her told her to open the door. Standing outside it seemed to be Seelie with a cute little flute. Smiling, she decided to see if there was anything the new person was requiring.

"Can I help you?"

Sela bowed deeply. He smiled charmingly.

"I'm sorry, Empress. I was just practising my flute. Now that you are here, though. The other have left to meet with King Valin. They tried knocking, but you didn't answer. If we hurry, you may be able to catch up with them."

He smiled again, everything about him sparkling brightly.

Whiptail slowly interjected himself between Shalamar and Aeris, though staying slightly to the rear...

"Am I correct to assume we don't trust these guys any farther than we can throw them?"

His speech was soft, barely above a whisper and so as not to draw any undue attention he chuckled slightly as if he'd just cracked a joke...

Shalamar gave Whiptail a nod so minimal that anyone other than he would that assuredly thought they'd been imagining it. "Less" came a reply even softer than his own question, and her lips didn't move.

Izual remained silent despite being within earshot of the conversation. He wasn't about to make a judgment after having only just met these people and considering the manner of some, especially Aeris, he felt more inclined to trust those within the Sithen more than the elven empress.

"An open mind can do no harm in this situation."

His comment wasn't to anyone in particular and sounded somewhat like something his father would have said. A memory of Izual's father caught him somewhat off guard, the man being over a thousand years dead. Not allowing his thoughts to be expressed facially, Izual remained silent as he pondered one of the few things that reminded him of a life before Arithon had changed him, a life of ignorance to the real forces influencing the world and yet some would say, a better life.

"An open mind can do no harm in this situation."

Silently Shalamar applauded Izual on his extreemely accute hearing, storing away another bit of information about him. Her's and Whiptail's interchange had been intended to be unhearable beyond thermselves.

And her reply to Izual was in the utter privacy of mind to mind Oh I do have an open mind. Lack of trust yet a willingness to listen are not contradictory or mutually incompatable. I trust a known quantity ...I trust them to be themselves. These are unknown quanitites, so until I know them I do not trust them. Fair enough no?

"An open mind can do no harm in this situation."

"I'm happy you're letting your opinions be formed in the here and now."

Edan smiled in a way reminicent of her mother. Brigit, the Foster Mother of Christ, hadn't batted an eyelash when she the Christians took her from her godly status and made her into a saint.

"I would rather be bent by their visions into a saint, then be like Death dead by the sword of Padric."

The calming voice played like an old song in Edan's mind. Edan's smile was so serene. It was always this way when her mother's voice was in her ear. When she'd been a child, she'd had the makings of a war goddes, but her mother's gentle hands had always pointed Edan to a path of creation.

'Better to build the bridges before you burn'

Bryce smiled at the group. "Well, since no one seems to have spoken, but Izual, I guess we'll enter."

Edan placed her hand on his shoulder. "One more minute for Elsie."

Bryce nodded.

OOC: Okay so all my my exams are in the last week of exams, which starts tomorrow. So i'll be gone until like the 28th. See you then

"I'm sorry, Empress. I was just practising my flute. Now that you are here, though. The other have left to meet with King Valin. They tried knocking, but you didn't answer. If we hurry, you may be able to catch up with them."

Elsie couldn't help but smile at the charming little flute players, he just seemed to glow with a brilliance she had not seen for some time.

"Oh my. I guess I must of dozed off or couldn't here it over Hiran. Lead the way then."

Sela smiled brilliantly.

"As you wish, Empress."

He bowed again, then quickly led Elsie through various doors until they reached the group outside the entrance to the Throne Room.

He acknowledged Edan and Bryce before disappearing again. Edan smiled at the group.

"Well now that we're all here, I welcome you to enter the Throne Room of Valin, King of the Unseelie Sidhe."

The doors to the throne room swung open and Edan with Bryce led the group inside. The room was a black. The walls, ceiling, floors, and statues were all different degrees of the shade. There were empty tables adorned with various colored table cloths pushed to the sides of the room. The Royal guard stood and say casually around the large room.

In front of the proscenium that held the thrones sat a long table. There were about a dozen high back chairs at the table facing the proscenium. Both the chairs and the table seemed to be made of pine. The pale color shining like a beacon at the front of the room.

There were four thrones on the stage. The outermost thrones were lovely, but dull compared to the center two. Both were made of Shesham with royal blue padding on the seats. The carvings were basic. To the right the King's throne sat a Rosewood piece. The carvings were intricate, and blood red hangings and cushioning covered it. In the center of the Rosewood throne sat a young man.

The boy's skin was as white and glowing as a moon beam. His hair was cut short, an oddity among the Sidhe. His hair was the deep black of a starless midnight. He was dressed finely, and had a small circlet on his head. His smile was self-assured yet shy. His eyes scanned the group. They weren't tri-colored like Edan's. His irises seemed to be a perfect swirling vision of the night's sky, his pupil like an eclipsed moon. When his eyes landed on Edan and Bryce he looked arrogant for a moment, then seemed to regret the expression and nodded to them cordially.

At the center of the stage sat the King's Throne. The throne seemed to be carved into the back wall of the room. The marble expanding out so that the King's seat was not too far back. There were no cloths draped over, nor cushions, nor any carvings. There was just the large ominous throne. The only adornment were various vines and flowers that clung to the throne itself. As Edan has said, there were vanilla blossoms. There was also ivy, roses, and baby's breath. It grew around the throne as though it as an oassis.

Valin smiled broadly at the group. His hair was the color of storm clouds, pulled back in a tight braid. His skin was grey as well, but there seemed to be lightening flashing beneath his skin. The same lightening flashed in his eyes. The colors of his eyes were summer sky, winter sky, and the same black as the boy's hair. He looked calm and happy.

Edan took her time with the introductions, explaining the title, nation, and position of each guest to the best of her ability. Once she's done an acceptable job explaining who the delegates were, she attempted to acquaint them with Valin.

"May I present to you, ladies and gentlemen, King Valin. Once known as Valin of the Storms, he has been the leader of the Unseelie Sidhe for the past 16 years. He has led us throw the darkness, not with light, but with knowledge. We need not brighten the path, if the path is well known to us. He is as just as he is wise. May he reign many centuries."

She, Bryce, and the guards all bowed, repeating the words.

Valin laughed, the sound like distant thunder. He clapped respectfully.
"Very Good, Edan. I'd ask my guests to sit, as Edan finishes the introductions."

A quick glance passed between Bryce and the boy on the Rosewood throne. It was not a pleasant look. Edan sighed softly as she prepared the final introduction.

"May I also present, Brend NicValin. Crowned Prince of the Unseelie Sidhe. He has yet to come to his powers. We look forward to seeing him mature."

"Wonderful. Now, Bryce if you'd sit to my left, and Edan sit to Brend's right, we can begin."

Brend's smile was filled with such joy, one would think the Prince has just be awarded a new toy.

OOC: Well, we're back. My wrist is fine and I'm ready to continue. HOORAY!

Shalamar's cinnamon amber eyes flashed fire and she made no move to take a seat "I'll call your insult and raise it." Her majicks might not have been the strongest in the room, and she well acknowledged that.

However ...

Her mind reached out, breaching past the sithen, and sought her pool side. From it she grabbed a ten chaise lounges (http://www.floridacommercialpoolfurniture.com/patiofurniture/images/aluminum/pool-furniture-2020a.jpg), the ultimate 'I'm indifferent to anything else I'm just going to have a good time chair' and brought them in. Her second grab brought the tables and decorations as well as a drink cart laden with crystal tumblers stacked about pitchers of tea and lemonade.

Shalamar looked blandly at the Unseeliegh Monarch and others. "You have gained nothing by your insults and lost much."

She looked at her fellow rulers and representatives "Ladies, Gentlemen lets make ourselves comfortable. I can always bring in a few pool boys and girls if you'd like."

Whiptail's own eyes flitted in Shalamar's direction, containing a combination of dismay and humor. While he hadn't been offended by anything the Seelie had said to him, that wasn't saying much. He was, first and foremost, an assassin and not a ruling dignitary, so that might explain his ignorance to whatever had pissed Shal off so badly that she literally quoted a Dave Chappelle-ism and brought her own seating arrangements...

'Fuck your couch indeed...'

He also didn't see the need to make such a scene, but again his way was one of keeping a low profile and drawing as little attention as possible. To each their own, however. It wasn't his place to question her actions, just to make sure things went smoothly on the delegation side of things for his fickle nation...

Izual sighed inwardly as he watched events unfold before him, keeping a close eye on the King and Shalamar. Despite the nature of many of these 'higher' beings around him, it seemed ego was always an issue. Izual had never seen himself as being concerned with his perception of himself or others but in the end he was originally human and couldn't deny such feelings himself. He simply believed he had much better control over them.

Whilst Valin appeared to be quite young, Izual was not about to make any assumptions. He knew all too well that appearances were not necessarily a good indication of age and in many cases could be used as a tool, encouraging others to underestimate you.

Taking a seat on the what had initially been provided, Izual decided to remain silent. He was really here to learn about this new residents of the region as he didn't have anything but himself to represent, unlike most of the others in the room that had a nation behind them.

"Pine is an honest wood, hardy, fast growing, with a long, strong tap root to keep it safe when stroms blow though." Madrigal said softly looking at the Unseelie with knowing eyes. In this, the games they played were not so different than those of the Court of Light and Beauty.

"But the insult is not in the choice of wood, but in the symbol, their arrogant pretence that we come as lesser, as supplicants to their power. And that We do not. And the fact that the Lady Shalamar breached the Sithen proves it." Madrigal advised openly for while she not angry, more amused than anything else, she would not tolerate any disrespect for her nation, and the ruler whom she was the personal reporesntative there of.

The Unseelie were the ones on the downside of the power slope, not the other way about. And perceptions mattered in the game of nations.

That was what the Lady Shalamar was reminding them of, not anything so minor as ego.

Valin looked confused by Shalamar's outburst. Around the room the guards seemed to be split between confusion, and understanding. Among those who understood there was a hushed debate over the extremity of her response to the seating arrangements.

It was when Madrigal spoke that Valin nodded calmly.

"I see, so you feel that the seating arrangements make you feel that we see you as beneath us. I see. Interesting."

He turned to his advisors. "I thought you said that these were acceptable seating arrangements."

They murmured to themselves for a moment.

"Sire, if I may," spoke one smoothly.

"Feel free Aiden, your advice is always sound."

"Were it that you alone were in your throne, perhaps the conference table would have been fine. However, we did not realize that you were to bring your son in on these talks. Nor did you tell us that you were planning on seating a personal guards in the consort thrones."

Valin nodded in understanding. "Continue."

Brend laughed into his hand as Aiden sighed.

"Majesty, you, your son, and two guards are sitting on a stage. You are literally looking down on your guests. Which gives the impression that you are "looking down on them" in other ways as well."

A look of genuine shock passed over the king's face. It was clear that he hadn't seen the insult, or he was an amazingly talented actor. He offered a cordial smile as he rose from his throne.

"I see now that the Throne Room was not the best place for this meeting. I did not mean to offend. If you all like to follow me to my personal parlor. There we can all sit in matching chairs." He laughed at his own joke. He walked to a door and waited for everyone to enter.

In the room beyond the door there was a great fireplace circled by a dozen plush forest green arm chairs. It looked comfortable without being too informal.

"Bryce, Aiden, Mihail, Edan, Glasgow, and Amara will come as well."

The five guards nodded solemnly. Brend smiled brightly again.

"So much more interesting than boarding school," he cooed.

OOC: US you have a TG

Enpatsu followed silently as he was shuffled from one room to another,oblivious to the insult that the others so keenly noticed. He had never really noticed chairs , however these elegant green chairs cought his eye.
Very interesting furniture are they handmade?

Shana was , unlike her brother, rather noticing, and cought the insult automatically.Althought they were being guided throughout these artistict rooms , she herself was a fan of art and was also curious as to the origin of the furniture.She assumed they were unseelie pieces , and desided to keep to herself.

So do we plan on starting now or does the tour continue.

Shana said with a slight tone of sarcasim in her voice, ment to lesson the tension in the room


PS: i have exams all next week so ill be busy. forgive me if this is bad i was in a hurry.

Aeris too had noticed the seating arrangement, and the very manner of which the king was elevated above them. While she too understood the potential insult of which Shalamar had gone to amusing lengths to protest; she didn't think it was worth the effort of such a protest. They were guests after all, and one had to be at least tolerant enough of normal customs in these lands. Hence, she was willing to overlook such a grievance. She moved along with the other guests, keeping near Shalamar in case she had to calm the older woman with a touch of the hand and a few silently shared words.

Seating herself in one of the green chairs, she looked around at the other delegates.

"Seeing as how we are now on equal level, shall we continue this meeting and see it to favorable terms amongst all parties involved?" she spoke up at last, wanting to get this meeting over with so she could go home and tend to more important matters on her mental list, like being held in the arms of Robert.

"So much more interesting than boarding school"

Shalamar said nothing more. She had made her point - that at least one in the group knew exactly what the Unseelie had been attempting to do. Also that she would not be shy about responding in kind. And she had taken an instant dislike to the youngster. [i]Cooing is for unctuous, overly oily courtiers, doves or precious little English chippies[/u] She buried a shudder deep.

Maddie and Talisman had said nothing more either but they had exchanged looks as both noted that the ancient and powerful psionic had sundered the Unseelies Sithen.

Once Aeris and Shalamar had taken seats, so did the two younger women. They both watched how the Unseelie chose to seat themselves and knew that Shalamar had as well.

Whiptail leaned into Shalamar slightly, again whispering as softly as possible...

"Just a tad bit overdone, dontcha think?"

The comment was more of a jest at her display of power than anything. She was old and powerful enough to do what she pleased, and he wasn't about to stop her. His piece said, he slid into one of the large chairs and made himself comfortable, tucking his tail under the chair itself to keep it out of the way of passing feet...

Shalamar's eyes crinkled just ever so slightly, and her nose twitched, but she said nothing in reply. Yes it had been - to drive the point home.

And she was fairly certain that it had been. She could have made it a lot less subtle. That made her laugh inside, and let her relax slightly.

Izual remained silent as the situation was explained to the king and everyone was moved into another room. Whilst he was somewhat apathetic towards the seating arrangements, the chairs in this newer room were certainly more comfortable and seemed to prevent another incident.

Initial assessments of some of the other delegates suggested they didn't precisely want to be here and had other things on their mind. Izual considered himself lucky that he did not have an entire nation as part of his responsibilities, in fact he had no one but himself to be responsible for although he considered a select few in this world worthy of his concern.

With everyone now seated, Izual awaited the beginning of the proceedings.

Aiden was the first of the Unseelie to speak once everyone, excluding himself and the guards, was seated.

"We have invited you today so that we may all discuss the addition of The Dominion of Unseelie Sidhe to the region of Fatal Terrain. It had been our hope to have a discussion about the culture and heritage of the Unseelie, this region, and all the other nations within it. We apologize again for the earlier misunderstanding."

"I really don't understand," added Valin. "My senior advisors said you'd all prefer the seating arrangements."

Glasgow and Amara shot each other a look, which made the other guards cough into their hands.

Amara whispered something to Edan, who made a sour face. Amara nodded in the direction of the young prince who was watching his father and Aiden with unconcealed amusement.

Edan whispered something back. Amara coughed in her hand.

"Tough break about that Eddie, I do hope you can pixie out of it somehow," murmured Mihail just loud enough that the closer delegate could hear.

Glasgow elbowed him and the guards are shared another secretive look.

"We have invited you today so that we may all discuss the addition of The Dominion of Unseelie Sidhe to the region of Fatal Terrain. It had been our hope to have a discussion about the culture and heritage of the Unseelie, this region, and all the other nations within it. We apologize again for the earlier misunderstanding."

Already twisted their nose once, might as well do so again Shalamar though to herself as she watched the courtiers- and yes they reminded her far too much of the uselss, power hungry courtiers that had developed during the middle ages of France. Held at court by kingly paranoia - a way to keep the nobles under his thumb and powerless ...

The Lady of Cats Keep watched the various interchanges with equally well concealed amusement. Scales will be flying later she mused to herself.

She waved a dismissive hand, as if the incident had been nothing. "Lets just say that we understand one another a little better now. Your apology is accepted" And that some how had an understanding implicit in it that it was Aiden's apology that she accepted, and did not necessarily extend it to any other.

"My senior advisors said you'd all prefer the seating arrangements."

A part of her, well hidden, snorted at that ...

In reality that had failed miserably, because they had became the only ones that had access to his ears, and thus the only ones with infuence...and therefore they got the power without ever having to go through the bother of raising an army, and fight for it.

And she felt the King had absolutely known what he was doing. One didn't become king snake of a pit full of them like this without such smarts.

"I truly am humbled, that you would accept my apology."

Aiden bowed gracefully to Shalamar. He then addressed the King.

"Sire, I think we should lessen the number of guards in the room. It would show great trust if you let most of them leave."

Valin waved his hand impatiently. "Yes, fine. Then please start with your presentation."

"As you wish Majesty." Aiden offered the necessary bow, then addressed the guards.

"Glasgow, you may leave. You can take Amara and Mihail with you. Oh, and Edan you should go with them, too. I believe Marcus wishes to speak to you."

"Should Edan come to see Marcus as well," questioned Glasgow cooly.

"That would be best."

Glasgow nodded quickly and the others followed silently.

"Now that everyone is comfortable I'll begin,"

"The History of the Unseelie Sidhe is long and somewhat shrouded in mystery. There are very few of those who can remember the beginning, and I doubt I could explain it properly. So I will start with the division of the Seelie and the Unseelie."

"Long ago, there were many tribes of Sidhe. They lived all over the planet and did not interact very much with other tribes. Over time, Sidhe began to join together in a larger, more diverse groups. Other breeds of fey joined the ranks quickly. Time passed, nations formed, and soon the division between the majority of fey was down to Light and Dark. There were of course many, many fey, sidhe, and elves who did not take part in this separation from the rest of the world.

The division between Seelie and Unseelie was at first based in violence and the like. However, as the ages of angels and demons came to pass the division was more between the "Humanlike" and the "Inhuman". The less like humans an individual seemed, the more they were pushed to the Unseelie. The Seelie are creature of Light and Illusion, while we are Darkness and Secrets. Violence among the Unseelie is straightforward, though we do not attempt to flaunt it. The Seelie deny any "sin" on their part. Though I'm sure many of you know how untrue that is.

The reason for our decision to become a nation is twofold. First, we do not wish to impose our heritage on those who live close to our Sithen. Secondly, our new Sithen appeared on this land. Which, if I'm not mistaken, was unclaimed when we chose to establish our nation here.

Are there any questions before I continue?"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Glasgow looked back to make sure the others were following him. Amara was speaking to Edan.

"He can't order you to marry," argued Amara angrily.

"He's the King. What do you expect me to do?"

"You could leave."

"And do what Ams? It's not like I can just run off and live in the volcanos."

"You could," murmured Mihail softly.

Glasgow sighed. He trusted Aiden more than anyone else. The man was Glasgow's mentor and friend. He was just unsure about the decision to bring Edan along to see Marcus. He liked the girl. She was sweet when she wanted to be, and a damn good Healer and weaponist. She was also Loyal. A trait that could serve them well, or destroy years of planning.

"I hope you're right about this Aiden," whispered Glasgow to himself. "For all our sakes."

He stopped and looked back quickly. The other three were still discussing having the red-haired woman run off to the mountains. Nothing out of the ordinary there. He didn't know why, but he got the feeling they were being watched.

He didn't see anyone, though.

Whiptail wasn't much for idle conversation, or a history lesson for that matter. He'd read up on his fae folk lore before coming on this little meet-and greet. He didn't want to be caught unaware, or offend anyone unknowingly. He felt he'd succeeded in that reguard where his hosts hadn't done quite as well. No matter, no harm done in his eyes.

They were rather fortunate, however. If it had been a diplomatic envoy from his homeland they would have stormed out already, vowing isolation like usual and working to further fortify the Unseelie Sidhe border. They weren't exactly a tolerant bunch, or very forgiving...

Aeris listened as they explained their own historical bias, nodding from time to time as some facts matched that of what she had heard and read. As the end of the history lesson came to be, she did choose the time to speak up, and she signified it with standing up.

"Your history is interesting, to say the least, but let's cut to the chase. We're not really here to have a test on your culture. All of us-" she gestured to the remaining foreign delegates "-are here because we are concerned about just how much of a threat you can be to our respective nations. Yes, you have appeared in unclaimed lands, or rather, deserted lands from foreign nations that have become buried in in the sands of time. But what are your true intentions other than requesting the right to live in our region; which if I may say; is something we highly value as a collective community."

She looked directly into the king's eyes, her gaze unwavering and strong. The very essence of what it took to be a empress. "So, I ask you again. Why should we entrust this land to you? If you're anything like the nation of Arithon, of which no direct delegate is here, I suggest you pack up your Sithen and leave, because we will not tolerate oppression and ill will garnered toward any of those whom have lived in Fatal Terrain."

While it was true that the hell-lands of Arithon still held a hold in the region, she was of the personal opinion that if they could find a way to completely eradicate the portal, she'd enact a campaign to secure that goal. But, at the present moment, it was not an opportunity. Nevertheless, the Sithen and the Unseelie were a different matter all together.

The Dark Argonian assassin crossed his arms across his chest and tilted his head in Aeris' direction...

"Yeah, what she said..."

While he was in agreement with most of what she'd said, he did feel they ought to give the Sidhe a little more lee-way. While they might have offended the vast majority of the gathered delegates, he was in favor of giving them an opportunity to demonstrate their good will and good intentions to them all...

"I'd really like to know what good you're bringing to this region. You've already offended most of the people here though ignorant actions, we'd all like to see if your intentions are as pure as you say they are..."

The interesting part of the issue was his role in it all. Here he was now, as a representative of peace and goodwill. He would return, however, as an agent of death and discord if things went poorly and relations between his homeland and the people of the Sithen. He was, first and foremost, one of the most successful in a long line of Argonian assassins from the Shadowscale Order. While he doubted the Unseelie had read any Argonian lore, the dagger-like blades sheathed at his back were a clear indication of his profession for those who knew what to look for. The fact that they saw the blades themselves, or even him for that matter, was a huge display of trust on his part...

Shalamar now sat silent letting the others speak, though unlike the others she had not failed to noet this:

First, we do not wish to impose our heritage on those who live close to our Sithen.

The tattered remanats who had chosen to live here - after all that Tarlachia, Tanaara and Cats Keep had done to offer them safer havens - spoke of either psychotically stubborn independance, or some one who valued an utter absence of anything resembleing law and order. And the second group was almost wholely formed of those of criminal intent.

True that Tanaara was busly- and very effectively stamping out any of those who tried to bring it across her border to the north...

Madrigal, as if guessing the directions of the Lady's thoughts spoke up.

"You do realise that you are likely to come under attack should you start travelling very far from your Sithen, don't you? When the nation that was here collapsed under the horrors of the Dark War, those that stayed here - and Tarlachia, Cats Keep and Tanaara all offered new lives with no burden of debts or constratints to any who wished it - stayed because they liked living here it was lawless. We have tripled our anti- piracy actions and I know that both Tarlachia and Argonia report far more than isolated border incidents."

"My question on behalf of my nation, is thus; Are you going to be a nation, and clean up these lands or are you going to hide inside your Sithen and let the outer lands, that you say you have claimed, go on the way they are?"

"Becasue I can tell you this. The Archon will not put up with the troubles they have been causing much longer." And it was not a threat. She had grown up with Robert, she knew his temper and the fact that his people were suffering depredations would having him moving far sooner than any might realize. "Robert won't care if you hang all the criminals high but something needs to be done or we will do it and you will not like the results I think."

King Valin opened his mouth to respond to the concerns of the delegates, but at this point Brend decided to voice his boredom.

"Politics? You're discussing politics? That's boring! Father, I don't want to sit through...TALKS!"

The young boy said the word as if it was the most vile thing in the world.

Bryce coughed into his fist severely. The sound masked his chuckles to the Royals, but no the the delegates.

The prince continued to tantrum, until Aiden spoke.

"Majesty, why don't I finish the discussions with the delegates. They can address specific questions to you at the feast. He's probably just angry he has to share you attention after being away at school so long."

Valin's expression was cold as he examined Aiden's expression. Then he smiled smoothly. "Of course, Aiden. I leave these proceedings in your...capable hands."

Aiden bowed automatically. "Thank you sire."

The King and prince exited, flanked quickly by the guards who had been in the Throne room.

Aiden smiled apologetically to the assembled group. "You should know that most of us do not wish to offend you. There just some....private issues we need to deal with here. The young prince was not supposed to be here during your visit. His appearance has caused some...How do I put this?"

"This event was a well oiled machine and he sludged it?" Bryce offered the comment with a half smile.

Aiden smiled back. "Yes, the prince's appearance mucked up our plans a bit."

"I'll address your questions as one. If my answer isn't satisfactory, I can refine it afterward."

"The hope of the Unseelie as a whole is to establish a peaceful, helpful relationship with the other nations of Fatal Terrain. We would like to be the kind of neighbours you can borrow a cup of sugar from. Or herbs, weapons, healing, a great recipe for Tiramisu."

He and Bryce laughed together.

"Honestly, we want to make friends. We want to be allies you can trust, and we will do what it takes to earn that trust. There are so internal politics we need to deal with to insure this, but many of us are confident that we can all make friends. As for those citizens who are roaming the lands...We do plan on dealing with that situation in the near future. First, we'd like to get some people out to see the region safely outside of our borders."

Aiden smiled honestly. "Is there anything I should add?"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"I believe the word you're looking for is High Treason," shot out an angry looking brownie.

"That's such a negative title," murmured Marcus gently. "I tell things as I see it."

Marcus was the son of a Korrigan and a Sidhe noble. Millenia before he was the primary Seer of the court, but had long fallen out of favor with the ruling family. Those who were now sitting in the pub with him knew why. His scarlet eyes fell on Glasgow as he lead the other guards in.

"You believe me, doncha lad?"

Glasgow frowned as he pulled up a chair. "I told you already that I did. I even brought some of the others to hear what you have to say."

"Forgive me for my rudeness, Marcus, but why is that woman accusing you of Treason?" Amara looked wary as she took her seat.

"As I said before, I make no claims to revolution, I just tell what I see."

"Korrigan's love to trick fools, Marc."

Edan spoke informally. Marcus smiled sweetly.

"You know as well as I that none of you 4 are fools. Besides, Daughter of Forge and Fire, I haven't even told you what I know."

Edan, Amara, and Mihail spoke among themselves for a moment.

"Tell us what you've seen."

Marcus smiled brightly. "What I say may not leave this table, though soon many will know."

Mihail looked over his shoulder. Much like Glasgow earlier, Mihail was sure that he felt someone watching. He took of a drink of his ale and shrugged it off.

"Why should we entrust this land to you? If you're anything like the nation of Arithon, of which no direct delegate is here..."

Izual didn't let that comment escape his attention. Whilst he was patient enough to endure Aeris' ignorant comments he felt a little interjection on his part couldn't do march harm. Waiting for the others to speak and enduring the prince's tantrum in silence, Izual picked his moment once Aiden had finished speaking.

"I'd just like to clarify on a point the Empress of Tarlachia made. The nation of Arithon has no representative here and I would advise that the Sithen deny access to any emissary from that nation, no matter what sweet words they may utter or what guise they may hide under. These demons will employ subterfuge if they believe a show of brute force will not be effective."

Izual's gaze shifted between Aeris and Aiden as he spoke. He wasn't going to back down, no matter what she thought of him or his intentions and he had a genuine interest in these newcomers.

Their laugher struck her wrong, over blown...If Shalamar had been a cat...what am I saying.. she is mostly one these days ..., and the ghostly image of a big cat that wreathed her like a smoky doppelganger or a shimmer of a heat mirage definitely had it's ears pinned back.

"Is there anything I should add?"

"If this is the revenants of a well oiled presentation you need to think again as it rings as phony as a snake oil salesman's efforts. . And if the presence of your ...Prince is so disruptive" There was not doubt in Shalamar's tone what she thought of the prince "Perhaps we ought to leave and you can ask us back after he's been " There was a very pregnant pause as the Lady of Cats Keep refrained from what she was thinking and found less inflammatory alternatives, though her eyes drifted to Whiptail. "Returned to school"

It just wouldn't do for her to suggest assassination.

"She added, not unkindly "You need, very seriously to get your internal politics in line so that you can have external ones. I can appreciate you wanting to earn out trust but you do have a hard audience to convince."

"I'd just like to clarify on a point the Empress of Tarlachia made. The nation of Arithon has no representative here and I would advise that the Sithen deny access to any emissary from that nation, no matter what sweet words they may utter or what guise they may hide under. These demons will employ subterfuge if they believe a show of brute force will not be effective."

She agreed whole heartedly with Izual's cautionary comment, and mentally agreed with Aeris as well. The Empress must never allow hate to blind her, but she did need to recognize Izual was a whole separate matter from Arithon. And he spoke true. Aeris would do well to make friends with him. She hoped to. He had an excellent perspective on the subject of Arithon and his doings.

Shalamar turned her thoughts back to the current matter however "So you'd like to send a group to tour the nations of the region?" She looked at Aiden and Bryce "I'd be willing to host and escort such a group, as long as it wasn't overly large."

Maddie spoke up nodding "I can agree, on Tanaara's behalf, to such a visit to Tanaara."

She too had felt the presentation was 'off' but was willing to give benefit of the doubt. She thought the prince felt slimy, but had managed to keep her feelings off her face. Talisman had simply ignored the Prince. But Celestials were very good at doing that.

There was a knowing glance returned from Whiptail, he knew what she was thinking even if he didn't have that telepathic gift...

"I'd fall into a similar category with Izual. I'm not a designated representative from Argonia, but I definitely can put together a little tour if you'd like. I've still got a few contacts in the capitol who'd be more than happy to meet with you. The country's still something of a wreck from the ending of a little internal squabble, but the peace talks are going nicely, and most of the damage has been in the outlying villages anyway..."

While his little speech had started off with enthusiasam, it trailed off towards the end when he realized he was making his ancestral home sound like a real shithole...

Aeris's comment had in fact not been an attempt to subtly suggest attack Izual, but rather more of an awareness that he at least was being truthful about his presence here and particularly whom he was here to represent; which was merely reinforced by his comments only a few moments after she had spoken.

"Very well. You want to be allies. So have hundreds before you. Why then, shall we choose you over the next in line behind you? Of what true benefit can we derive from our alliance with you and your Sithen if it is nothing more than a simple 'hello, neighbor!' and little else? You'll forgive me, but from what I've seen thus far, your people are still backwards in technological achievements. Can you handle the might of a foe whom may be what some call 'futuristic' and perhaps so called 'impossible to exist' and yet they do?"

She held up a finger, "Mind you, I am not disregarding the abilities of your magic and the will of your people, for my people also employ such things. So do others here. But when push comes to shove, can you withstand the might of an onslaught from an ortillary barrage the strength of Imitoran forces for example? Even the mighty black fortress of the demon Abaddon crumbled beneath the Imitoran onslaught in the battle of Turath during the Dark War." She gave the king a wry smile, "And the Imitorans are not known for their magic."

She leaned forward, her fingers lightly planting against the table in front of them. She had hardly cast a thought regarding the prince. He was not important here, despite his position. He held no power as of yet, and until that day, she would treat him as such, with respect as earned, and yet at a distance. Sons of kings did not always grow up to be like their fathers.

"I propose that you give a thorough tour of your own realm, take us anywhere we wish within reason. If our people find nothing too far out of order, then we'll be glad to offer a similar deal for your visiting dignitaries."

Aiden sighed a bit at the "snake oil" statement. He took this opportunity to sit in the King's vacated chair. He signaled Bryce to sit as well. The guard sat on a bench just in front of the fire.

He seemed to be paused for a moment of thought. He nodded along with the suggestions of tours of Cats Keep, Tanaara, and Argonia. A flash of something came over his face, and he sighed again. This time it sounded more defeated than anything else. He looked up and his face was very open.

"Six months ago when we began moving onto this land there were many discussions about our neighbours. There were many who believed it would have been best for us to keep to ourselves. Others thought we should visit you and tell you our intentions individually. I was the one who suggested that was have this meeting. I just wanted to have a more so informal discussion about our place within our new region. We would have talks, then a nice casually feast. With luck we'd all have learned something, and could begin to discover together where our Dominion fit in this region.

"As the months passed, plans changed. Various people of import voiced their opinions on what should be done for the visit. There are many who were still quite fierce in their opinion that we should not let you enter our borders, much less the Sithen. However, the vast majority thought it best to do things as planned. As I said, many plans were changed. Originally we were going to have a large welcoming committee to greet you, instead of just Edan. We invited the nations of this region to this event mere weeks after we decided to have it. There was no way to change the date, even when the plans became muddled. I am concerned that if you were to leave now, those who oppose outsiders would use it as fodder for their "anti-outsider" propoganda"

"So I hope you'll stay and perhaps help me in my original plan to just have a calm discussion about regional politics and expectations you may have of us. I'd also greatly like to continue this discussion about sending some of our people to visit your nations. I think they'd enjoy that greatly."

"As for your comment about dealing with our internal issues...
There is a group who is working out these issues as we speak. We're hoping that it will all work out well and finish quickly. Now if we could continue."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"..and that is the vision I have seen," spoke Marcus quietly. He was so solemn it was impossible to doubt the truth in his words.

"You'd have us exiled!" Mihail snarled angrily.

"We'd be tortured for a thousand years," snapped another man who was with the group.

"I'm not sure about this," murmured Amara. "But I trust your visions. Your prophecies have never been wrong in my lifetime."

Edan looked down at her tankard pensively. "My mother told me never to doubt words of clairvoyance. But my father told me not to trust a Korrigan with anything but mischief. I don't know if I can follow the path we are on now, but I'm unsure if I can safely take the one you are suggesting."

"Of course it's not safe," laughed Marcus as he sipped his drink. "As the many said before, this is treason. But I saw what I saw, and I trust you'll make the right choice."

Edan sighed. "I'll have to think about it."

Glasgow turned to her. "There isn't much time to think."

Shalamar nodded at Aidans explanation "I can understand being divided, and having to work on the fly. I understand your Sithen probably better than any of us here, and how you could be quite happy with no contact with the outer world." The Shadow Realm was very Sithen like "But I do think you need contact and interaction with the outer world as well. But that is just My opinion."

"Your lands do not border mine. I have some of Tanaara and some of Tarlachia between you and I, so my concerns here are truly more on a region wide level than Tarlachia, Tanaara or Argonia. All three whom border along you."

The ancient looked over to Aeris "Though I don't think you have to worry about what military might they will bring to the region. While the Seelie prefer us Not to think about it - the elders of this race were considered by humans to be gods once, long ago. And I have no doubt that the Sithen could withstand what the Imitorans or the Tanaarans might bring to bear. Remember the Castle Black fell to a combined assault, not solely a single force - no matter what the Imitorans wish to believe."

"And you are sounding petulant Aeris. What is angering you. True they are not prepared, and have handled much gracelessly but you are acting as if they are Arithon's allies or minions - and that I know they are not. I mean, really 'we choose you over the next in line behind you' you never asked Cats keep that" She asked the Tarlachian Empress privately.

"Though I think a tour of the Sithen would be best and perhaps a meeting with some who don't want interaction with us. Hearing from them their thoughts as to why would be beneficial." She spoke aloud, echoing Aeris's thoughts.

Aiden smiled at Shalamar. "Thank you Empress again for your understanding. If you would like a tour of the Sithen, I would be happy to give it to you. We should probably start with the pubs, though. I'd like to get Glasgow and the others back with the group so that they can help with some questions I may not be able to answer."

"As for meeting those who didn't want you all to come," Aiden paused to think. "I'd be happy to introduce you to some of those who are wary of outsiders without being hostile. There will be plenty of the later at the feast this evening. Would the rest of you be alright with a tour of the Sithen?"

Whiptail nodded in agreement to the suggestion...

"I'd be up for some more touring, since that's what we'd be doing if you were to visit my homeland..."

It was true that the Argonians had never really contributed much to any of the wars that had been fought within the region, mostly because they were just becoming a stable power themselves...

"You really shouldn't be so hard on them, Aeris. How many Argonians fought in the battle for Turath?"

It was a rhetorical question. The answer was none. They were too busy fighting each other at that time to really care about what was going on in the rest of the region...

"And you are sounding petulant Aeris. What is angering you. True they are not prepared, and have handled much gracelessly but you are acting as if they are Arithon's allies or minions - and that I know they are not. I mean, really 'we choose you over the next in line behind you' you never asked Cats keep that"

No. Aeris snapped silently to Shalamar,Tarlachia didn't have the worries then that it does now, and we paid heavily for it. Innocence is becoming increasingly difficult to find. And, I'm not angry.

She never looked over at her old friend once while listening to the discussion continue. She actually felt a little nauseous, and she was willing to bet it was more because of the Sithen's strange arcane weavings coupled with the so far, rather shoddy political impression she was getting of the Unseelie. Still, she was willing to give them a chance to make amends.

Aeris looked over to Whiptail and gave him a look. She knew it to be a rhetorical question, but the facts remained. The Argonians would not have been tested for their trustworthiness in such a situation. Rather, their alliance with Tarlachia had been a result of Tarlachian and Argonian cooperation in a nearly forgotten military conflict long ago.

To their hosts, she gave a smile; strange considering her earlier behavior. "Now we're getting somewhere. I'd be pleased to speak to your people. It could go a long way in your favor." Her face did however, show a serious note of concern, "However, pubs? Honestly. Do you really want to have your people who are impaired from their drinking to destroy any chance you have at political favor?"

Tarlachia didn't have the worries then that it does now, and we paid heavily for it. Innocence is becoming increasingly difficult to find. And, I'm not angry.

"Oh, these have never been innocent, I'll give you that...but Aeris, do you feel well? Or are just you and I tired of politics, politics, bloody politics?


She too frowned over Aiden's choice of introductry places and completely agreed with

However, pubs? Honestly. Do you really want to have your people who are impaired from their drinking to destroy any chance you have at political favor?"

"I have to agree, I seriously doubt that a pub would make the best impression upon us. Why don't we roam at random and we can pepper you with questions as the sights draw thing to mind." She suggested. She seriously wondered if the unseelie had any idea of what went on the the world outside their Sithen, and what to do with the lands they wanted that lay outside their Sithen.

Shalamar knew that something needed to be done Very Quickly about the human and nonhuman scum that filled the broken, crumbling cities and towns that had once been thriving metropolises, parts of nations, not tracts of wild lands fought over by various warlords.

"Oh, these have never been innocent, I'll give you that...but Aeris, do you feel well? Or are just you and I tired of politics, politics, bloody politics?"

Aeris cast a discreet eye toward Shalamar, Politics are entirely an evil unto itself. Yet...a necessary evil unfortunately. They make me nauseous. At least this one is. I don't like the feel of this Sithen, and that's more on my connections into the earth than anything else. It's almost feels invasive, offensive. It's like every step I take is trying to knock me down, unsettle me.

She exhaled quietly, then breathed in deeply, wishing silently to get out of here. She placed a palm on the table in front of her, then raised it. A soft glow, barely perceptible, came from beneath her hand, but a glass of some unknown liquid appeared.

Only, she suddenly felt worse now for it.

Shalamar discretely pulled of her gloves and lightly touched the back of Aeris's hand, and the Empress felt a quick tingle run through her body.

She felt better afterwards and Shalamar simply pulled her glove back on. The look on her face never changed, not really.

Aeris gave Shalamar a thankful look, then turned her thouhts inward. Recalibration...I've got to adjust my sensitivity to this arcane clime. She sent out gentle feelers, probing the Sithen for it's existential properties, and comparing similarities and differences to that of the world she knew much better. Steadily, she worked to adjust herself during this task, and yet, all the while, she gave no outward indication of doing such.

Well...that's strange. she thought to herself, scanning the results a second time, then a third time. A thought was sent to Shalamar, There's not much different between the Sithen and Terra. I guess that should have been expected. A glance toward their hosts, They are elven after all. She returned her attention to Shalamar,Though, the differences are minimal. Not strong enough to cause something like this.

She returned to her internal thoughts, this time probing herself to see if she were truly sick somehow. She nearly never got sick, and there had to be a reason. Tendrils of her magic slipped through her body invisibly, searching persistently for the cause. Only then did she suddenly widen her eyes and turned her head to her friend. She mouthed the two words, barely perceptible by sight.

A hand rested, slightly trembling against her stomach.

OOC: "Are you having fun?" "Yesss I'm having fun!" "I used to have fun" "Yes, we know" ...Sorry just can't help it...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Shalamar looked at Aeris with slightly raised eyebrows and a wry, knowing, expression on her face. However she said nothing, but patted Aeris comfortingly on the back of her hand.

Why don't we roam at random and we can pepper you with questions as the sights draw thing to mind.

Aiden smiled.

"A wonderful suggestions. Why don't be all split up? Some of you can come with me to the market. Others can go with Dianthe, once I call her, to the gardens. We could also go to the forests outside the Sithen if you wish. I believe it was mentioned by those that met you that some of you wished to go exploring there."

"I'll just call some of the guards to help with the tours."

Aiden pulled a mirror from his pocket to contact Glasgow.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"So, you're still undecided then?"

Edan looked up at the group as a whole. They'd been talking for a while about Marcus's vision. She trusted them deeply. However, some of the more particular details put her ill at ease. She sighed and stood up.

"You said you're not doing anything for a fortnight, correct?"

The group at the table nodded.

"I'll give you my answer in a few days then. I just don't think now is the time to be plotting."

She left the pub and headed down the hall. Perhaps she could go visit Sela for a moment. It would be nice to see what he was planning to play at the feast. Maybe she could get a nap in or...

Dianthe's voice broke through the fog.

"Edan? Can you hear me?"

Edan turned to find the small green woman standing directly next to her.

"Sorry, I was just thinking about something. Did you need me for something?"

"Mmm, yes. Bryce just contacted me to ask if I'd give some of the delegates a tour of the gardens. I wondered if you'd come with me."

Edan cringed slightly. They were a nice group, but...

Dianthe sighed. "Look there's a group that's going to the market, too. Maybe you could tour them around. It's just...well they've met you I thought it would be nice if you guided them around."

Edan's face twisted with thought. She wasn't sure how great her impressions to the delegates had been. Especially after her speech about how great the King was right before the Throne Room incident. She let out a deep breath.

"Alright, I'll take them on a tour of the market with Aiden. You can take them around the gardens with whoever else is coming."

Dianthe smiled broadly as the two women walked down the corridors. Glasgow was already in the room with a few other guards when they arrived.

"Hello again." Smiled Edan nervously.

"Anyone who'd like to see the gardens can come with me," stated Dianthe. "Edan is probably the best for anyone who wants to see the market. Is there anywhere else the group is going?"

The Last questions was addressed to Aiden who turned to the delegates as response.

"I should like to see the market" Shalamar said promptly. And gave a quick mental contact to Talisman Suggest the Gardens to Maddie and we'll compare notes later." Talisman she hadn't had to reach to reach so to speak but for Maddie had any one been attuned and 'observing' it would have shown. Madrigal didn't have more than minimal abilities, and didn't carry a starstone.

"I'll step in for that" Talisman agreed, her mind voice faint. For a Celestial those Donas werew only average. But she glanced at Madrigal and stood stretching her winds slightly "I think the gardens sound nice, and I could use stretching my wings"

Madrigal agreeed that joining that group sounded like an excellent idea.

"Could we see some of the crafthalls, your artificers?" Shalamar asked

Izual merely remained silent as he observed the interactions between Aeris, Shalamar and Aiden. It appeared the two women were somewhat impatient with Aiden in his perspective, yet Izual reminded himself he had no one to worry about but himself, no nation that depended upon his decisions, no lands that could be invaded and ravaged by demons.

Nodding his agreement to a tour, Izual continued to keep quiet. Whilst he was certainly interested in the Sithen and these people he figured his questions could be put aside, behind matters of regional politics. As the discussion continued, Izual noticed the use of magic being used in his presence and determined it to be from Aeris. Senses alert and precise, it didn't take him long to determine she was doing something but he wouldn't be able to see more without engaging in a few arcane activities himself, something he was reluctant to do within the Sithen and towards an already hostile person.

As the options were presented Izual figured the markets would be a better place to see a little culture of those residing within the Sithen.

"I would also like to see the markets."

Whiptail was rather indifferent to where they went, so long as they started moving again. His restless nature was beginning to take hold once again and he felt the urge to get up and explore his new surroundings...

"Guess we're headed to the markets, then..."

He got to his feet quickly, prepared to move at a moment's notice. All this sitting around and chatting was beginning to annoy him to the slightest degree...

OOC: Well I'm not posting. and the thread is going slow.

I'm putting the thread on hiatus until September. My job is really draining me physically and mentally, so I can't plot. We will return in the fall, and hopefully it will move faster.