A Kingdom Interrupted

[Dodgeit]

As they exited Allione's office Rabert looked to Pod.

"Excuse me, Pod wasn't it? Would you be able to pass a message on to my sister? Veela Crawphens? Simply say 'Rabert is going away for a few days. He wanted you know know if he dies, he disliked you the least' Thanks!"

Before waiting for answer he headed out to the 2nd floor of the main hall. Looking around he caught sight of Bethany, his favourite Chambermaid. He approached her with a warm smile.

"It's good to see you again so soon. Sadly on this occasion I won't be able to join you at the Amber Tankard, as much as I wish I could. I have to go away early on the councils orders. What say we grab a couple of drinks and some food. We could get away from the crowd and the commotion in my chambers? If you are able to of course" The glint in his eye growing as he winked.

 

[RadientAni]

Royal Chambers
Allione nodded at Chap’s analysis. “You are probably right, but that is why we need Mikhaelis, he would know if any who or what was capable of such complex uses of the arcane. A prodigy in his own right he may even be able to duplicate the feat.” Shaking his head, as he enters into the royal chambers.

“Your Highness,” Allione moves towards the king and queen. “We are convening the High Council within the hour. Gregor and I think it best to bring Mikhaelis home early.” Allione reaches out to the king with his proposal. Arenthas sat up in his chair and released Hadrianna’s hand to take the parchment, reading it over. It’s several moments of scanning before he speaks. “They all have agreed? This plan, I would rather not deceive the Empress. Though perhaps annoyed that she would have to end her assault and resort to diplomacy, she too needs this conflict resolved I doubt she was involved.”

Allione sighs, “If anything this is a precautionary measure, your highness the cleric’s believe” Arenthas holds his hand up, “I know Allione, we shall not utter it here.” Moving to a large table Arenthas picked up a quil signing the orders and placed his seal upon the paper, his ring imprinting a shining eagles head into the wax. The king looked to Chap, “I was told you carried my wife back here, Thank you.” The roaring fire reflected in the King’s steel grey eyes, there was no weakness if there was intent to dissuade the king the onlookers had failed.

Library

The library makes makes up the large corner tower of the castle with three tiers topped with a metal and glass atrium. The light which normally funnels down through the center of the tower is replaced by floating orbs and torches giving it a comfortable glow. Entering upon the first tier the walls lined with books scrolls a luxurious bear skinned carpet lays at the feet of a curved couch facing a small hearth. To the right a small alcove leads you to a curved stair leading to the second tier.

Sitting upon som pillows by the hearth is a young well dressed Halfling woman her auburn curls assuring her face as her fingers passed over the scrolling text of the book she was reading. Several more were stacked about her some even pinning her by her skirts to the floor. As Tilly enters her eyes flick up from her book the sound from the hall drawing her attention towards the doorway. “Oh Hello there,” she greets Tilly simply, “Usually people only drunkenly stumble through that door. Is there anything I can help you with?” Millicent smiled closing her book keeping her thumb within to hold her page.

From above grumbling and papers could be heard shuffling. “Flanking from the south hah!” The gruff masculine voice shouted, “Get is all killed it would.” Shaking her head Millicent chuckles retuning her gaze back to Tilly.

Great Hall

The clinking of utensils on plates the sounds of the Nobles and guests chattering and the sound of music drown out much as one makes their ways through. Jurren Fenwaren has no such exception as Glynn approached. Looking over his tankard of ale his smiling eyes fell upon Glynn as he was addressed. Setting the tankard down he swallowed hard what seemed more than just what he had been drinking. Scratching his upper lip which sported a groomed mustache heavy mustache he chuckled at Glynn before Wiping his face and hands upon a napkin. Reaching out his large hand to Glynn in greeting. “You should perhaps bulk up my friend. Been waiting on you what did dear old Dad have to say I watched you and some other slink in there. You don’t look too beat down so I wont accuse you of having fun without me.”

Pod jumped a little at being addressed nodding along to the information Rabert charged him with. He looked thoroughly confused as Rabert ran off, he wasn’t quite sure who his sister was, but with the Chamberlain’s task done he had time to search and find out.

Balcony

Bethany popped out of the hallway that led to the other chambers crossing back to the main guest hall as she was approached by Rabert. With a bit of a pout she set her hands upon her hips still holding the linens she had just changed in the crook of her arm. “What terrible luck, I had hoped to show you a real celebration and you are leaving so soon.” Looking down over the Hall from above she sighed. “Unfortunately I can’t leave my duties just yet, but I’m nearly finished. Just wait for my knock, a relaxing drink and some food would be perfect for such a busy day.” Grinning she gave Rabert a wink as she passed.

 

[Expersprobi]

Chap bowed politely, "All part of the job, sir." He moved closer to the bed, ignoring the King's presence as he smiled at the Queen, "We're going to take care of this. You and your baby will be alright, Lady Hadrianna." After another quick bow he stepped back and addressed the King, "Such a tenuous peace, but there are many dangers between here and the throne of the empire. If we say we send gifts, and the gifts are sent, then perhaps we can soften the blow of Mikhaelis' required presence. Once we are there, I would gladly to share your concern with the Empress myself. If that is your wish." Chaperone's offer was genuine, this peace meant a lot for him, free travel between the Kingdom and the Empire, the possibility of discovering who he was before he was awoken in this very castle. "I would hate for any action, intentional or otherwise, to compromise this new age." Chaperone bowed politely once more before he recalled a thing, "There is, one thing, Your Majesty, if I may... a small request."

 

[WetHawk]

Tilly bowed lowly to the halfling woman with a smile. "A dozen apologies for interrupting your reading, madame. I am Tilly, butler to Professor Gregor Abexian. It is my utmost pleasure to make your acquaintanc" He straightened up and adjusted his bowtie. "My master has set out a task for me to escort a company of men across the Blackwater Sea, and I am afraid that as a butler it is my first instinct to prepare myself with knowledge of our journey. Still, my primary concern is always to serve to the best of my capabilities. Is there anything I can fetch for you? Perhaps food or drink? You seem to be rather well bedded down, if you don't mind my mentioning." Tilly chuckled and dusted off the shoulder of his small suit.

 

[RadientAni]

Royal Chambers
Arenthas’ eyes followed the construct as he approached the Queen. His gaze moving to Hadrianna with a frown seeing her there hurt him, but not his zeal for peace.

Hadrianna smiles back at Chap, “Thank you Chap, I trust in your ability to keep those young men safe.” Leaving him with a smile she starts to cough and turns away as Chap returns to the King.

Arenthas peeled his gaze from his queen to listen to Chap, “Thank you I would appreciate the initiative. I understand you are to seek clues of possible involvement so I leave it to your judgment.” Taking the scrolls from the desk he offers them to Allione, who approaches and then steps back to allow Chap to speak. Arenthas looks curiously as Chap request. “What do you ask of me? If it is within reason I shall grant it.”


Library

Looking about herself she chuckled, “Oh I see what you mean. It is good to meet you Tilly, I am Lady Millicent Grey.” Pushing a few of the books from her skirts she lifted herself up to standing. “You said you were traveling? Is there anything in particular you are looking for? I find myself hidden away in the library any time I visit. Perhaps I could help you with what you are looking for. “ As she approaches it is revealed she had a small plate and wine glass along side her reading tuffet.

 

[Dodgeit]

Rabert headed down stairs and liberated a tray of food and a couple of bottles.

He retired to his room to await Bethany. He had no desire to be social at the party after tonight's events. Nor did he have plans to leave the room until the morning

 

[WetHawk]

Tilly smiled warmly to her and took her hand, kissing it. “I am honored to make your acquaintance, Lady Millicent Grey.” He let it go, folding his hands back behind him as he met her gaze for a moment. “The Greys play a very important role in the upkeep of this kingdom. I must commend your family for their dedication to their duty.” He turned away and began browse the shelves as he mused aloud. “You surely know much about the Blackwater Sea, yes? I am afraid my education on the subject is woefully inadequate, yet the rumors I have heard stem from mermaids to dragons to all sorts of nonsense. I was hoping to parse some truth about those matters, as well as about our destination, the kingdom of Karthegas. I would hate to make a fool of myself in this foreign land.”

 

[Expersprobi]

Chap rubbed his head for a moment, a nervous habit he'd picked up around the nobles and guards. "Well, Your Majesty, there's a tailor who is accompanying us on our trip. He seeks citizenship in the kingdom. I had thought perhaps that a gift from a citizen of the kingdom might be more fitting than a gift from a foreign national on behalf of the kingdom." Chap straighten his doublet and buttons, "We also know this mission may be dangerous. By your word it could be a dream realized rather than a dream delayed... I... Know what it's like to be a man without a home. I'm sure it would not go unappreciated." Chap looked to the Queen a moment with a subtle frown. He considered bringing up the Queen's dress but decided it poor timing, his request would have to do. "That is all, thank you for hearing it, sir."

 

[maasnssmaamsm]

Blaze wandered off, still shaken by the events of the day. He spent an hour or so sitting quietly in the chapel, praying for the lives of the queen and her daughter. He also had to think on the plan that was proposed to him. I'm not much of a liar, nor do I like making enemies of people who may be uninvolved. If I am going to bring gifts, they will be true gifts of some of my best work. He stood up, determination on his face for the first time in a while.

He enters back into the halls of the castle, and he looked around as he marched down the halls. "I need to find Chap, and I need my fabrics brought to my room!" he ordered to anyone who might look like one of the help that he passed. "If people are coming with me, they need to look the part."

 

[corielldog]

By this point, Varnis had spent hours in his room going over lists of supplies and plans, the desk was lined with pages filled in the manic scramblings of “what may” happen to the point that it wasn’t unrealistic. A keen eye could even spot his plans for “the entire underdark coming together and forming an army to overtake the kingdom while we are away.” Truly Varnis was an anomaly when it came to planning, he was his own worst enemy, it was simultaneously his worst and best skill but eventually he drew up a concrete list of supplies, passing it off to whomever could retrieve them for him the quickest

 

[RadientAni]

Royal Quarters

Arenthas was a bit surprised at the man but the request made him smile, “You have the King willing to grant almost anything and you ask for the citizenship of another.” Turning to Allione he becons him over, “Chamberlain, I would like you to draw up the papers for this before you head into the council meeting. I will approve it tonite and Sir Blaze may place his mark upon it in the morning.”

Allione nodded “Gladly your Majesty.” Arenthas then turned back to Chap, “Is there anything else you wish to ask of me?”

The King set his hands upon the desk.

Library

Millicent smiles clapping her hands together. “Thank you Tilly was are proud to give a guiding light. It’s funny this library reminds me of home perhaps it is why I spend all my time here when I am away from home.” Moving up to the shelves she scans those within reach then backs a step to look at those far above. “With good eyes from the top of the light tower on a clear day you can see the Serpant Isles or the Everpeak Mountains that border our dear country.” Chewing her lip she glances over to the ladder. “Tilly would you be a dear and get me that ladder?” She points to the ladder that appears to ride a track in a complete circling of the room.

“The thing about the Blackwater is, it’s turbulent waters, only the fishermen and sailors of Port Denarties seem to know to navigate them. They say it has rip torrent currents and jagged rocks that can rend in half even the strongest of keels, but those are simply more rumors to scare those from attempting to cross. There is a core of truth but it’s really large war ships and heavy merchant vessels just ride too low in the water to navigate safely.” Chewing her lip she set her hands in her hips, “What puzzles me is the large pirate presence, without the wealthy merchant shipments to confiscate I am not truly sure why they would risk their ships.” Shrugging she pulled a few books from their shelves.

“As for the empire, it is quite warm there, you may be a bit uncomfortable in your suit, despite the dapper impression it makes,” Millicent grinned. “You won’t find much in this library on their culture, at least not yet, once the alliance is complete I hope for a flood of new things to discover. Most of the books on Karthagas are histories of our war with them, and military strategies and so on. Not very interesting reading if you ask me.” Her voice lowered and pointed up. “I won’t say that too loudly in front of the Military History and Strategy professor.” With a chuckle she sets tho books she had pulled on Blackwater upon a low table. “I can tell you is that they are Matriarchal and the Empress has been in power for many years. Their government is also run much like ours with a council, but they are known as the Magisterium, all high ranking and affluent magic users. Dark and dangerous, be careful if you need to interact with any or their apprentices. Never trust a mage from Karthas.” Opening to a few pages she unfolds a small map of Blackwater.
Guest Chambers

Rabert heats a knocking upon his door a quiet tapping the. A lift of the thumb latch. “M’lord” the flowery voice of Bethany calls into the room as she looks around her and enters.

Soon after several servants could be seen in the halls delivering bolts of colorful fabrics to Blaze’s chamber laying them neatly upon a rack beside his work station. Small crates of dyes and tubs stacked in a corner as ordered. In awe of the fabrics one of the servants dared linger s few moments to admire a sapphire bolt of silk before he was prompted by another to leave.

The servant that took Varnis’ request made his way down to the Chamberlain’s offices and relayed the message to Pod who agreed to give the list to the Chamberlain upon his return.

Main Hall

Pod had found Veela, Rabert’s sister and delivered the message to which she scoffed, “Tell my brother I’ve always hated him and I hope he falls into a ditch.” As Pod looks completely thrown he turns to go, to witness Veela casting a look towards the Guest Rooms with worry.

Jurren Finishing his meal stood towering over Glynn, “Ryden will be worried about his mother let us go see if we can cheer him up.” Swiping a few tankards off a passing servers tray and gave a nod of his head towards the Prince.

 

[Expersprobi]

"That is all, I will do my best to make sure everyone arrives in their appropriate place safely, Your Majesty. Thank you." Chap shares a weak smile and a polite bow before turning to leave with Allione.

Once outside he turns to the Chamberlain, "My apologies, I hope I did not overstep or embarrass you, sir. I have appreciated the opportunities the kingdom has afforded me and doubly so my time in your employ. I hope Blaze does as well." He began once again to straighten and clean his outfit, nothing out of place.

 

[RadientAni]

Royal Chambers

Seeing Allione and Chap our the King returns to the bedside of his ailing queen. Meanwhile Allion shook his head walking alongside Chap. “Not at all Chap, that man would do anything for his family and his kingdom, what you did was noble and I am sure he will remember it.” Waving the scrolls he straightens. “These will surely sway the council in favor. This meeting will not be about weather you will go, but how much support the council is willing to give this venture, I pray they are amenable” watching curiously as servents passed by with bolts of fabric Allione pondered. “Seems our friend Blaze is taking this task quite seriously. I hope he will be able to continue his preparations while traveling. It will take you a good two weeks to get the Kartha, barring any interruptions.” Turning down the servants stairs he makes way to his office. “I must prep the paperwork for Blaze, and draft a letter to the Empress. You are free to go, meet me here at the top of the hour and we shall proceed to the meeting.” As they appeared around the corner Pod stood waiting with several messages of note.

 

[Expersprobi]

"Of course, sir. Call on me if you need me before then. I think I will go share some good news." Chap smiled and nodded to the Chamberlain before he turned and followed the bolts of cloth and other materials back up the stairs and down the hall.

Finally arriving at Blaze's Chambers, Chaperone did not enter but politely stood outside, knocking with wooden fist on the wooden door and waiting for Blaze to appear and welcome him in.

 

[maasnssmaamsm]

Blaze opens the door to his chambers, and Chap can clearly see that he has been frantically cutting peices of fabric for a short period of time, and the bits of fabric are spread out in multiple piles. He has four needles being heald in his mouth, one of which is attached to a spool of thread that he has shoved into his pocket. Around his neck, he has a hand made measuring tape that is looped over itself a few times. His eyes light up upon seeing Chap. "Oh, they must've found you for me..." he mumbles and he tries to not drop the needles. He quickly grabs Chap's wooden hand, leading him into the room and he quickly begins measuring the warforged.

 

[Expersprobi]

Not unfamiliar with being measured for an outfit, Chap stood quite still. He smiled, "Found me? I didn't know anyone was looking. I actually came here to share some good news with you." Chap paused.

"You may want to stop for a moment." He waited for the scattered tabaxi to stop for a moment.

"I had the opportunity for an audience with the King. In light of the task we are to perform and because you expressed interest in citizenship, the papers will be drawn up tonight. Citizenship is yours if you truly want it. I wanted to be the one to share the news." Chap grinned. "Please, continue with your art. Your work is most exquisite."

 

[Styrium]

"I didn't do anything wrong... this time around. He just wanted to talk about a new plan for the morning, nothing worth discussing in a night meant to be fun." As Jurren nods, he sees the prince worried and makes his way towards him, the purple spectral hand grabbing a second glass of wine on the way there.

"Your Highness, I was expecting to find you engaging more in today's events, you heard Lialeth, your mother is fine." Glinn gives him the second glass of wine, "Now, cheer up a bit. I've heard the news, she's expecting a child, it's going to be a small ray of sunshine in your life. Who wouldn't like having a sibling?" "At least she won't steal everything you've built this far..."

 

[maasnssmaamsm]

The tabaxi stands still for a moment after hearing the news. A small tear comes to his eye and his mouth opened, spilling the needles onto the floor. Suddenly and without warning he hugs Chap, and is noticably shaking. "I've been putting it off for too long. After Riddle passed, I... I... just never felt at home again. Thank you!" He releases Chap, and he quickly regains his focus, getting back to the frantic and erratic taking of measurements and cutting of fabrics. "I'm so glad I said something, and I'm happy that you expressed my intentions." He smiled, still moving at at quite the pace.

"I'm not a very good liar, Chap, so I'm not likely to be able to fake my way through this 'mission.' If we are going to be bearing gifts of my work, then I intend for us to damn well look like it." His nimble fingers have already begun sewing the pants that he intends to create for the warforged standing before him. The fabric and it's color is like nothing he had ever seen before on anyone but the king and queen. "I'd like to get the chance to dress anyone who is coming along, if I could."

 

[Expersprobi]

"There's no lie, just you - a citizen of the Kingdom of Alveria - bringing gifts to the Empire. Anything beyond that is out of the scope of your concern. No need to lie or be dishonest, you were asked to make gifts and you will deliver and I'm sure they will be stunning." Chaperone watched the gentleman with interest as he worked.

After a pause in the conversation, Chap tried to spark discussion again, "What was the riddle that made you feel so displaced?"

 

[maasnssmaamsm]

Blaze looks up, slowing his pace a bit. "Um, well, a few years ago my fiance was killed in the jungle near my village. Her name was Answered Riddle, or Riddle for short." His head dropped for a moment, as a small amount of light could be seen in the palm of his hand for a moment before he clenched his fist and returned to his work. "She was what had kept me connected with my home. Losing her made the Island feel more like a prison than a home. Being able to start a new life on the main land obviously wont solve anything, or bring her back, but at the very least it will distance me from the pain."

 

[Expersprobi]

Chap frowned, he'd obviously misunderstood, "Oh. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to..." Chaperone hung his head.

"The only one I've ever lost is myself. But, forope you find what you are looking for here. The Kingdom offers many wonders and citizenship opens many doors for a man of your talents." Chap began methodical polishing his doublet buttons.

"Would you like to see my disguise kit? I carry clothes and jewelry." Chap asked, trying to change the subject.

 

[RadientAni]

Main Hall

A break in the bombardment of well wisher’s and courtly responsiblities Ryden sighed but never let his shoulders slump, to see Jurren and Glynn approach was a relief. Jurren and and embraced clapping each other on the back as long time friends, before he accepted Glynn’s wine. “It is good to see you Glynn, and thankyou, I know I put my mother through the ringer aswell, I am sure she will be fine.” Taking a long drink from the glass he looked out over the floor until his eyes fell back upon the two men. “When will you be joining us here in the castle Glynn, surely you travel enough here to make it worth your while?” Ryden put his arm awkwardly on the taller Jurren’s shoulder and leaned. “Jurren here misses you like a fisherman’s wife when your gone all sad puppy eyes.”

Jurren shoved the prince off with a glare all while laughing. “Shove off I do not, I just miss the fun we had when we were all pages here together. Granted you were just a wee boy.” Jurren demonstrated by lowering his hand palm towards the floor marking the height at the knee.

“Yeah yeah, you elves can laugh it up least I didn’t go through 30 years of puberty.” Ryden laughed Waving his wine at Glynn. “Your brother is now apprencing with my uncle, that is exciting. Though I tell you what Glynn despite Uncle Mikhaelis’ prowess in the arcane, I’ll be glad to have more forward independent thinking minds in my Council. Mikhaelis always likes to comment the Empires Magesterium, me I feel a well rounded council gives a better representation like the one my father has now. I’m sure the boy will turn out fine though.”

 

[Styrium]

Glinn winks at Jurren, "I don't blame you for missing me, it's not your fault I'm this good looking." He shivered at the mention of his brother, his eys flickering dark red for a second, "Life would be a lot easier if they didn't constantly remind me of that."

Smirking as the prince finishes his comment he waves his hand in front of his face to appear like Ryden. "You know I can't stop day dreaming about my council, and how I'm going to be great at it. What would I even do without the two of you by my side?" He chuckles for a moment returning to his regular elf visage. "I agree. Young Py has a lot to go through, even though his sorcery manifested earlier than mine, he still has to wait some decades before taking any major part."

 

[maasnssmaamsm]

"Interesting," Blaze raises an eyebrow, "I do have some extra fabrics and things laying around, if you need to use some." He waves his arm to indicate mustiple trunks bursting with clothing and reams of fabric. "Though if you want to use it as a disguese, my clothes may stand out a bit too much." He chuckles quietly to himself as he finishes the legwear that he was creating for Chap. There are places inside the clothes that are padded with a heat resistant fabric that he had brought from the isles.

 

[Expersprobi]

Chaperone shrugged, "You'd be surprised how good a disguise standing out can be when you want to remain hidden." He stretched out an arm which unfolded in the middle allowing access to fake jewelry, wigs, strips of cloth, and bits of clothing as well as needles and thread, and a mask. His finger tips folded back to reveal even more, a stick of some sort of glue, others contained makeup, one contained a set of tools for properly applying false hair as well as general hair care. "I often use it to convincingly mend outfits or clean up the nobles hair and make up. There have been a few occasions where it was actually needed to hide an endangered client, but rarely do things get so out of hand." Chap smiled, "I'm sure it will be fine, but I'm always looking to add to my collection, never know when you might need a scarf or a hairband or a necktie."