Luthien
The Elven One
Their journey to Lorana was swift; they were weary with grief and battle that all wanted nothing but drink, food, and a bed to lie on. Not afar was the castle in its entire splendor, with its white walls encasing the city. Ialia smiled upon their arrival as the gates to kingdom began to unlock. As the doors opened, they were met with city guards and civilians, whom all greeted them with delight. Talk of the great witch destroyed was whispered amongst the people as Ialia continued to reach the castle. She did not know what to expect from the king other than gold and a few goods.
And there was no knowing what other adventures laid ahead of them.
An Unexpected Visitor
The man she knew all her life, stood before the doors of the throne. With his full heavy armor and his two-handed claymore hung just on his back, he appeared unapproachable. Yet for Ialia, she was more perplexed as to why he was guarding the chamber. As her group followed, she stopped carefully in front of the great knight and gave a small bow. There was no response to him, except silence.
Ialia stared up at him for he towered over her and cleared her throat, “Sir Hesper Leret—”
“You are late, child,” he cut off, his voice muffled from his helm.
“…Yes, well, there were many dangers ahead of us and—“
“You are late for the meeting with both Kings.”
“King Irwin has arrived?”
“King Shahjahan of Gallagon, my child.”
Ialia turned to Ualan for a moment before facing Hesper again, “The desert has a King?” She snickered, “I thought it was nothing but half giants and sandworms.” She recalled no history of Gallagona having neither a royal family nor people ever living there. Unless what explorers in the tavern said was true: that Gallagona was a vast land divided. “Hm, and what does a desert king want with us?”
Before he spoke again, he unlatched his helm and pulled it off. Gray and golden brown locks were tied back into a low ponytail, and wrinkles and a few scars were shown on his face. “He seeks an alliance to benefit his kingdom, Ialia.”
Verlous pushed his way through the little gathering of those who survived and returned to seek audience with King Loranos. Even moving Ialia aside without much word, only a hand to her shoulder to move her out of his way. The elf stood before the tower of a man, only a few inches shorter than the Grand Knight Commander. "And what possible advantage could a King of a desert country find in an alliance with a land so far from his own? The sands of Gallagona alone are half a week’s travel under unrelenting sun. Why so far?" This was an odd bit of news for few inhabitants of Gallagona left its sands. The politics there must have weaken for its own king to leave in seek of allegiances, he thought.
"Ah, a Dark Elf. Your kind are from the desert, yes?" Hesper assumed as a look of disapproval showed; one Ialia had seen too many times, with his lips turned down and his eyes narrowed. It was clear he was not thrilled that a simple blade for hire began to speak to him in forms of disrespect.
"Yes, we travel the dunes,” Verlous responded. “You, however, have failed to answer my question. Why has Gallagon's King sought ties of 'friendship' from a kingdom so far outside his own lands?" The elf was either oblivious to Hesper's body language or blatantly disregarded it. The latter was more possible given his disposition.
"I do not know his reasons,” Hesper retorted. “The one who does at this point is His Majesty, King Loranos. I would have been more informed by now if my pupil," he casted a glare at Ialia, "had been more punctual in her arrival. For now, his reasons will only be revealed through time or by either of the Majesty’s themselves."
“Sir Hesper, forgive me, I was unaware of this significant meeting. Had I known before our departure, I would have hastened our quest.”
There was just a nod of his head, “Your victory makes up for this subject.” He raised his helm and placed it on with a fastened click. “Though, this does not mean I can let you through. You all must wait until the meeting is ceased. Now be gone.” Hesper spoke no more, only watched Ialia and her partly leave the entrance to the throne.
It was then that time felt like an eternity for them; some sat on the stairs of the castle, while others leaned against the walls, or walked about. It was Ialia who paced about, ignoring the three long hours that were wasted. Yet it was those three final hours that were the end of the meeting with Loranos and Shahjahan. The two walked towards the end of throne doors as Hesper opened them. He bowed to both and led Loranos as an escort. Where Loranos' guards were armored in metal and broadswords, Shahjahan's men were dressed in light tunics with cloths covering their heads and mouths. Light chainmail hung underneath their attire and exotic curved blades were sheathed.
One man in particular, that caught Ialia’s eye, was the desert king’s personal elite guard. He stayed to the very front, next to Hesper, who stood just the same height as him. He was broad, tanned, and bald; filled with tattoos and piercings that were striking and unordinary to the knight. He wore only a light pair of pants and a leather-padded vest lined with his weapons: two swords different from the others of Shahjahan's men. He looked threatening, but vulnerable with the lack of armor to protect him.
“Make way for the Kings!” Hesper shouted as his knights formed a line for them. Ialia’s group stood behind her in line as she waited for the Kings to pass.
Shahjahan walked ahead and stared at the city for sometime. His long black hair was well kept and brushed back, his facial features were slim and angular with defined cheekbones. And shown high as many of those from the desert regions, a narrow goatee dropped from his chin, which he stroked as he drew his time with Loranos to an end. Soon he turned and extended his hand from his warm red traveling cloak and placed it on Loranos’ shoulder. Ialia only noted the grand golden chains and gems that were draped around his neck, and the broad shoulders the cloak rested upon. "This day is the day of reassurance for my people," his voice deep and resounding, with the tone of masculinity and authority that one might expect from a leader of Gallagona. "This had been encouraging for myself as well, Your Majesty," he spoke respectfully. "I had almost given up hope of finding any arm of aid and friendship for my lands and people."
When Shahjahan observed his army, he caught eye of the half-giant Ualan and the dark elf Verlous, “Ahh, it seems I am not the only one from the untamed lands that has made a pilgrimage so far home," he said drawing note to the two who stood out quite significantly from the regions denizens.
Ialia bowed slightly to him, “They were with me Your Majesty, for a long journey. We have returned from a great battle. The two have fought cleverly,” she concurred, even though she did not agree with Verlous’ backstabbing.
He smiled as he turned to Loranos, “I truly see hope for my country and yours, Your Majesty.”
Loranos took Shahjahan's hand, both making a firm and solid grip to one another as they shook hands. "My kingdom has the resources to spare, and your offer is one that is hard to refuse. What you need, will be made readily available—materials, masons, we will send what we can offer. In the meantime, if you will be staying in my city I shall make any accommodations necessary for you and your people; food, entertainment, and beds! We see many travelers from all corners of Athamar here. Though it is surprising to see so many from the same lands all at once!" The king exclaimed.
"Thank you, my friend." Shahjahan responded gratefully with a small bow of his head, "You are a gracious host. We shall remain the night but be no more the burden on the morrow." His gaze turned to Ialia and her companions, "It seems, however, you may have other business to attend to, I shall keep you no longer. I eagerly await your audience tomorrow, King Loranos. Farewell." Shahjahan departed down the steps, his one elite guard in front of him, and the other four in tow.
Loranos looked at Ialia, “Meet me in the throne. There we shall discuss your journey.” He left with one of the knights.
Ialia tightened her grip to Mordra’s head and began to follow, with Hesper walking by her side. “I did not want to be rude earlier…”
“What do you mean, Sir Hesper?” She asked curiously.
He raised his hand to his helm and coughed lightly, “You smell like the old witch’s ass fresh out of the tainted forest. I’m sure you gave King Shahjahan a positive impression.” Ialia scowled, but did not say a word to him. “And where is your shield?”
“It was destroyed in battle.”
He shook his head in disappointment, “You need to request a new armor set after this is through.”
“Of course, Sir Hesper.”
“It has weakened and you cannot go on duties like this.”
Ialia grinned at his state of concern, “Now, which role are you partaking? My father or the grand knight commander?" There was no response from him.
Once again, he opened the doors to the throne, “Once the meeting is over and you have rested, please come see me.”
“Yes, Sir Hesper.” He closed the doors on them as they walked inside and Ialia sighed in relief, “That old man…” she muttered.
Many Meetings
They all stood before the King and Queen of Lorana; Ialia kneeled on one knee and placed the head on the floor before her. Slowly, she unwrapped the cloth and presented the decayed head of Mordra Sayd. Queen Edalene gagged and choked, quickly departing herself from their chamber. King Loranos gave a little smirk of amusement when she left. “Eleven were here, yet now there are eight with two new companions.” He stared at Arya and Xesyl for a moment. “Tell me, where are the other three?”
Ialia lowered her head, “They have fallen, Your Majesty,” she said softly.
“I see. That is a shame, but know that they died courageously.”
Ialia nodded in agreement, ‘some of them did,’ she thought. “It was a grave confrontation, Your Majesty, but Silvershadow Woods can rest and heal now.” Much was said between Ialia and the king; she spoke about the corruption, the companions they encountered, and King Arisu regaining his power. She did not, however, speak of the prophecies that were made for each of them. After hearing enough, Loranos rewarded them each with gold coin and an amulet of recognition. The amulet was small, made with a marbled white stone surrounded by silver wiring.
“Thank you for partaking in this quest.” As he sat back on his throne, he glanced at Ialia, “Ialia, you are free from your duties today. You may take your friends to your estate so that they all may rest well. Celebrations and free drink shall be held at The Stumbling Bard tonight!”
“We are humbly grateful, Your Majesty!” Ialia rose to her feet and led them out of the throne room. Her estate, she thought! She could not remember the last time she slept in her own home that she honestly believed the barracks was her home. She could not even remember the last time she was off duty; it was quite refreshing that she did not have to watch the princesses or the castle gates for the day. Before she passed through their courtyard, Xesyl, Luna, Arya, and Reilios said their farewells and parted ways from the group. Ialia continued through another castle gate and onto the main route that was rich with foliage. It was the only trail that directed them to the knight’s manors, but it was one that was scenic and peaceful.
“Ialia!” She quickly turned to see Bastian sprinting towards her; whom she smiled and waved at. He came to a slow stop as he walked by her, “Well, well, it’s about time you arrived.” He grinned, “I bet your task would have been quicker if I was with you.” Ialia’s acquaintance, Bastian, was just a few inches shorter than herself. He bore the armor of the Loranian Knights, suggesting he had just come off his own assignment.
She rolled her eyes, “Hello to you too, Bastian. I do not believe your presence would have made a difference.”
He scoffed, “The bean sprout thinks she’s better than me?”
“No, I am better than you and I am no longer a bean sprout!”
“Well, you were at one point,” he said, never specifying whether he was referring to her height or her ability. They both laughed all the same. “I’m glad you are well Ialia,” Bastian said kindly. “But I’m going with you on the next mission whether you like it or not. After all, you left before I returned from my escort, so I’ve had to entertain myself for the past two weeks”
“Of course, of course,” she replied nonchalantly.
They walked in silence as Bastian glanced over at the group; his hazel eyes scouted over each person until he looked at Ialia again, “This is one hell of a strange party you have here. Giants, mages, and a Dark Elf?” He leaned into whisper lowly to Ialia, “I thought they stayed in the desert. Why is he here, in a city of all places?”
Ialia shrugged, “I do not know,” she whispered in returned, “but I do not trust him. We must keep an eye on Verlous.” After a few more winding paths, they came across a majestic manor with vines adorning it’s walls. As they came closer to the entrance, the servants stepped outside for a proper welcome.
Bastian gawked for a moment, “Now with your hesitation to show me your home I started to believe you lived in a run down estate...but this is very much the opposite."
Ialia did not respond, but greeted her servants instead. She introduced everyone to each other and led everyone inside the grand entrance. With a simple walk down the hall, they were in main room, which was surrounded by bookshelves and a fireplace. Yet what was more distinguishing was not the amount of books Ialia had, but the large family portrait that hung above the mantel.
Isora stepped forward to gaze upon the couple holding a baby. Both shared similar features like the dark hair; but it was the woman who was so distinct with the elaborate braids, her stature, while holding her daughter. “…Are these your parents?” she asked curiously.
Ialia peered up and smiled when she looked into the eyes of her parents, “Yes, that’s them and this was their estate.” She paused before she continued, “Months after our majesty was crowned King of Lorana, we were invaded by an old opposing nation. Many viewed him as weak for he was young; but it was his strategy, his men, and my parents that brought Lorana to prosperity. An Avalden knows when to sacrifice themselves for their kingdom.”
She stepped away from the portrait, “My parents were lovers of all creatures and races, which is why they requested such a huge estate. With the inheritance I gained, I expanded the land and manor. I hope the space is comfortable for each of you,” she concluded and motioned for her servants to step forward. “My servants will accompany you to your rooms and,“ she looked at Ualan and Tal’set “find ones that are more suitable for such.”
“So wash up, get some sleep if you can, and, uh, try not to get lost.” When they left, Ialia grinned at Bastian, “Stumbling Bard tonight? There’s free drink.”
Bastian quirked a high brow when he heard mention of free drink. His fist shot up in the air in excitement. "You know I'm there Ialia! I just need to get out of this and into something more comfortable." Once everyone was out of earshot he quipped at Ialia, "So long as you promise not to try and seduce a drunken friend into your bed again."
She blushed, but remained calm, “I was just as drunk! How do you know it wasn’t you seducing me, Bastian?” When he did not respond, she laughed, “Goodbye Bastian, I will see you tonight.” Ialia followed her servant to her bed chamber, while Bastian only shook his head and left.
And there was no knowing what other adventures laid ahead of them.
An Unexpected Visitor
The man she knew all her life, stood before the doors of the throne. With his full heavy armor and his two-handed claymore hung just on his back, he appeared unapproachable. Yet for Ialia, she was more perplexed as to why he was guarding the chamber. As her group followed, she stopped carefully in front of the great knight and gave a small bow. There was no response to him, except silence.
Ialia stared up at him for he towered over her and cleared her throat, “Sir Hesper Leret—”
“You are late, child,” he cut off, his voice muffled from his helm.
“…Yes, well, there were many dangers ahead of us and—“
“You are late for the meeting with both Kings.”
“King Irwin has arrived?”
“King Shahjahan of Gallagon, my child.”
Ialia turned to Ualan for a moment before facing Hesper again, “The desert has a King?” She snickered, “I thought it was nothing but half giants and sandworms.” She recalled no history of Gallagona having neither a royal family nor people ever living there. Unless what explorers in the tavern said was true: that Gallagona was a vast land divided. “Hm, and what does a desert king want with us?”
Before he spoke again, he unlatched his helm and pulled it off. Gray and golden brown locks were tied back into a low ponytail, and wrinkles and a few scars were shown on his face. “He seeks an alliance to benefit his kingdom, Ialia.”
Verlous pushed his way through the little gathering of those who survived and returned to seek audience with King Loranos. Even moving Ialia aside without much word, only a hand to her shoulder to move her out of his way. The elf stood before the tower of a man, only a few inches shorter than the Grand Knight Commander. "And what possible advantage could a King of a desert country find in an alliance with a land so far from his own? The sands of Gallagona alone are half a week’s travel under unrelenting sun. Why so far?" This was an odd bit of news for few inhabitants of Gallagona left its sands. The politics there must have weaken for its own king to leave in seek of allegiances, he thought.
"Ah, a Dark Elf. Your kind are from the desert, yes?" Hesper assumed as a look of disapproval showed; one Ialia had seen too many times, with his lips turned down and his eyes narrowed. It was clear he was not thrilled that a simple blade for hire began to speak to him in forms of disrespect.
"Yes, we travel the dunes,” Verlous responded. “You, however, have failed to answer my question. Why has Gallagon's King sought ties of 'friendship' from a kingdom so far outside his own lands?" The elf was either oblivious to Hesper's body language or blatantly disregarded it. The latter was more possible given his disposition.
"I do not know his reasons,” Hesper retorted. “The one who does at this point is His Majesty, King Loranos. I would have been more informed by now if my pupil," he casted a glare at Ialia, "had been more punctual in her arrival. For now, his reasons will only be revealed through time or by either of the Majesty’s themselves."
“Sir Hesper, forgive me, I was unaware of this significant meeting. Had I known before our departure, I would have hastened our quest.”
There was just a nod of his head, “Your victory makes up for this subject.” He raised his helm and placed it on with a fastened click. “Though, this does not mean I can let you through. You all must wait until the meeting is ceased. Now be gone.” Hesper spoke no more, only watched Ialia and her partly leave the entrance to the throne.
It was then that time felt like an eternity for them; some sat on the stairs of the castle, while others leaned against the walls, or walked about. It was Ialia who paced about, ignoring the three long hours that were wasted. Yet it was those three final hours that were the end of the meeting with Loranos and Shahjahan. The two walked towards the end of throne doors as Hesper opened them. He bowed to both and led Loranos as an escort. Where Loranos' guards were armored in metal and broadswords, Shahjahan's men were dressed in light tunics with cloths covering their heads and mouths. Light chainmail hung underneath their attire and exotic curved blades were sheathed.
One man in particular, that caught Ialia’s eye, was the desert king’s personal elite guard. He stayed to the very front, next to Hesper, who stood just the same height as him. He was broad, tanned, and bald; filled with tattoos and piercings that were striking and unordinary to the knight. He wore only a light pair of pants and a leather-padded vest lined with his weapons: two swords different from the others of Shahjahan's men. He looked threatening, but vulnerable with the lack of armor to protect him.
“Make way for the Kings!” Hesper shouted as his knights formed a line for them. Ialia’s group stood behind her in line as she waited for the Kings to pass.
Shahjahan walked ahead and stared at the city for sometime. His long black hair was well kept and brushed back, his facial features were slim and angular with defined cheekbones. And shown high as many of those from the desert regions, a narrow goatee dropped from his chin, which he stroked as he drew his time with Loranos to an end. Soon he turned and extended his hand from his warm red traveling cloak and placed it on Loranos’ shoulder. Ialia only noted the grand golden chains and gems that were draped around his neck, and the broad shoulders the cloak rested upon. "This day is the day of reassurance for my people," his voice deep and resounding, with the tone of masculinity and authority that one might expect from a leader of Gallagona. "This had been encouraging for myself as well, Your Majesty," he spoke respectfully. "I had almost given up hope of finding any arm of aid and friendship for my lands and people."
When Shahjahan observed his army, he caught eye of the half-giant Ualan and the dark elf Verlous, “Ahh, it seems I am not the only one from the untamed lands that has made a pilgrimage so far home," he said drawing note to the two who stood out quite significantly from the regions denizens.
Ialia bowed slightly to him, “They were with me Your Majesty, for a long journey. We have returned from a great battle. The two have fought cleverly,” she concurred, even though she did not agree with Verlous’ backstabbing.
He smiled as he turned to Loranos, “I truly see hope for my country and yours, Your Majesty.”
Loranos took Shahjahan's hand, both making a firm and solid grip to one another as they shook hands. "My kingdom has the resources to spare, and your offer is one that is hard to refuse. What you need, will be made readily available—materials, masons, we will send what we can offer. In the meantime, if you will be staying in my city I shall make any accommodations necessary for you and your people; food, entertainment, and beds! We see many travelers from all corners of Athamar here. Though it is surprising to see so many from the same lands all at once!" The king exclaimed.
"Thank you, my friend." Shahjahan responded gratefully with a small bow of his head, "You are a gracious host. We shall remain the night but be no more the burden on the morrow." His gaze turned to Ialia and her companions, "It seems, however, you may have other business to attend to, I shall keep you no longer. I eagerly await your audience tomorrow, King Loranos. Farewell." Shahjahan departed down the steps, his one elite guard in front of him, and the other four in tow.
Loranos looked at Ialia, “Meet me in the throne. There we shall discuss your journey.” He left with one of the knights.
Ialia tightened her grip to Mordra’s head and began to follow, with Hesper walking by her side. “I did not want to be rude earlier…”
“What do you mean, Sir Hesper?” She asked curiously.
He raised his hand to his helm and coughed lightly, “You smell like the old witch’s ass fresh out of the tainted forest. I’m sure you gave King Shahjahan a positive impression.” Ialia scowled, but did not say a word to him. “And where is your shield?”
“It was destroyed in battle.”
He shook his head in disappointment, “You need to request a new armor set after this is through.”
“Of course, Sir Hesper.”
“It has weakened and you cannot go on duties like this.”
Ialia grinned at his state of concern, “Now, which role are you partaking? My father or the grand knight commander?" There was no response from him.
Once again, he opened the doors to the throne, “Once the meeting is over and you have rested, please come see me.”
“Yes, Sir Hesper.” He closed the doors on them as they walked inside and Ialia sighed in relief, “That old man…” she muttered.
Many Meetings
They all stood before the King and Queen of Lorana; Ialia kneeled on one knee and placed the head on the floor before her. Slowly, she unwrapped the cloth and presented the decayed head of Mordra Sayd. Queen Edalene gagged and choked, quickly departing herself from their chamber. King Loranos gave a little smirk of amusement when she left. “Eleven were here, yet now there are eight with two new companions.” He stared at Arya and Xesyl for a moment. “Tell me, where are the other three?”
Ialia lowered her head, “They have fallen, Your Majesty,” she said softly.
“I see. That is a shame, but know that they died courageously.”
Ialia nodded in agreement, ‘some of them did,’ she thought. “It was a grave confrontation, Your Majesty, but Silvershadow Woods can rest and heal now.” Much was said between Ialia and the king; she spoke about the corruption, the companions they encountered, and King Arisu regaining his power. She did not, however, speak of the prophecies that were made for each of them. After hearing enough, Loranos rewarded them each with gold coin and an amulet of recognition. The amulet was small, made with a marbled white stone surrounded by silver wiring.
“Thank you for partaking in this quest.” As he sat back on his throne, he glanced at Ialia, “Ialia, you are free from your duties today. You may take your friends to your estate so that they all may rest well. Celebrations and free drink shall be held at The Stumbling Bard tonight!”
“We are humbly grateful, Your Majesty!” Ialia rose to her feet and led them out of the throne room. Her estate, she thought! She could not remember the last time she slept in her own home that she honestly believed the barracks was her home. She could not even remember the last time she was off duty; it was quite refreshing that she did not have to watch the princesses or the castle gates for the day. Before she passed through their courtyard, Xesyl, Luna, Arya, and Reilios said their farewells and parted ways from the group. Ialia continued through another castle gate and onto the main route that was rich with foliage. It was the only trail that directed them to the knight’s manors, but it was one that was scenic and peaceful.
“Ialia!” She quickly turned to see Bastian sprinting towards her; whom she smiled and waved at. He came to a slow stop as he walked by her, “Well, well, it’s about time you arrived.” He grinned, “I bet your task would have been quicker if I was with you.” Ialia’s acquaintance, Bastian, was just a few inches shorter than herself. He bore the armor of the Loranian Knights, suggesting he had just come off his own assignment.
She rolled her eyes, “Hello to you too, Bastian. I do not believe your presence would have made a difference.”
He scoffed, “The bean sprout thinks she’s better than me?”
“No, I am better than you and I am no longer a bean sprout!”
“Well, you were at one point,” he said, never specifying whether he was referring to her height or her ability. They both laughed all the same. “I’m glad you are well Ialia,” Bastian said kindly. “But I’m going with you on the next mission whether you like it or not. After all, you left before I returned from my escort, so I’ve had to entertain myself for the past two weeks”
“Of course, of course,” she replied nonchalantly.
They walked in silence as Bastian glanced over at the group; his hazel eyes scouted over each person until he looked at Ialia again, “This is one hell of a strange party you have here. Giants, mages, and a Dark Elf?” He leaned into whisper lowly to Ialia, “I thought they stayed in the desert. Why is he here, in a city of all places?”
Ialia shrugged, “I do not know,” she whispered in returned, “but I do not trust him. We must keep an eye on Verlous.” After a few more winding paths, they came across a majestic manor with vines adorning it’s walls. As they came closer to the entrance, the servants stepped outside for a proper welcome.
Bastian gawked for a moment, “Now with your hesitation to show me your home I started to believe you lived in a run down estate...but this is very much the opposite."
Ialia did not respond, but greeted her servants instead. She introduced everyone to each other and led everyone inside the grand entrance. With a simple walk down the hall, they were in main room, which was surrounded by bookshelves and a fireplace. Yet what was more distinguishing was not the amount of books Ialia had, but the large family portrait that hung above the mantel.
Isora stepped forward to gaze upon the couple holding a baby. Both shared similar features like the dark hair; but it was the woman who was so distinct with the elaborate braids, her stature, while holding her daughter. “…Are these your parents?” she asked curiously.
Ialia peered up and smiled when she looked into the eyes of her parents, “Yes, that’s them and this was their estate.” She paused before she continued, “Months after our majesty was crowned King of Lorana, we were invaded by an old opposing nation. Many viewed him as weak for he was young; but it was his strategy, his men, and my parents that brought Lorana to prosperity. An Avalden knows when to sacrifice themselves for their kingdom.”
She stepped away from the portrait, “My parents were lovers of all creatures and races, which is why they requested such a huge estate. With the inheritance I gained, I expanded the land and manor. I hope the space is comfortable for each of you,” she concluded and motioned for her servants to step forward. “My servants will accompany you to your rooms and,“ she looked at Ualan and Tal’set “find ones that are more suitable for such.”
“So wash up, get some sleep if you can, and, uh, try not to get lost.” When they left, Ialia grinned at Bastian, “Stumbling Bard tonight? There’s free drink.”
Bastian quirked a high brow when he heard mention of free drink. His fist shot up in the air in excitement. "You know I'm there Ialia! I just need to get out of this and into something more comfortable." Once everyone was out of earshot he quipped at Ialia, "So long as you promise not to try and seduce a drunken friend into your bed again."
She blushed, but remained calm, “I was just as drunk! How do you know it wasn’t you seducing me, Bastian?” When he did not respond, she laughed, “Goodbye Bastian, I will see you tonight.” Ialia followed her servant to her bed chamber, while Bastian only shook his head and left.
