"That's a damn shame, I'd have liked to have met with him at least once after my ejection. Probably didn't even remember me, though, that's no harm done." He sighed, looking back at the court. Not only was it a disappointment it was a reminder that his generation wasn't long for the world. Bullshit, he'd come to get drunk and celebrate and that aspiration lead him to change the topic to something at least a little positive. "A Morningstar in command? I always figured that was the way it should be. Good news for Bard the second, the man's got a lot of trouble to smooth over in the world. Long may he reign." He bowed his head as he spoke, truly meaning his wellwishing for Bard. Karl Leid had never involved himself much in the affairs of the knights, but anyone in the court knew what a Morningstar was; a knight selected to stand above his peers as the example for them to live up to both in skill and character. Romanticizing the position was beyond him but he'd heard the word thrown around in meetings enough to comprehend and appreciate its weight. Part of him was relieved to see that Thomas was accepting of their company, with his warm greeting of Gareth. It made the day feel less like an imposition and more like the festival it was going to be.

Thomas smiled at Gareth's praise, and released his hand from the handshake, "I appreciate your admiration, Gareth Harker. I wish there were more people like you in the capital." Thomas said, sincerely. Most view the Order as something that had long lost it's appeal, and it's power. Thomas was among the small number of the Order knights that wished to preserve the glory and honor of the Order, while most seemed content in acting as well-trained swordsmen. Thomas turned his head to Karl as he spoke, bowing his head in conjunction with Karl's, "Long may he reign." Thomas added to Karl's statement, patting his torso with his right hand, close fisted, over the position of his heart, gently. "King Bard II is going to need more help than a Morningstar can offer." Thomas spoke soon after, wondering if his statement was slightly out of line for a knight of his status, "King Bard II has a plate filled large enough for 10 men." Thomas added, after a short pause. The stain of the reign of Arduin II was still fresh on the minds of the citizens of Keilaudrin, and Aripert's reign was far too short and brief to leave any mark. Bard II was the third son, and last, son of King Rudolph, and the only hope left for Keilaudrin, "We can only hope that there are more people wishing to see King Bard II rule, than there are those that wish for him to join his two brothers in the grave." Thomas spoke, with a melancholy tone to his voice. Thomas turned back to look at Gareth, "Beg my pardon, Gareth, but are you of elf heritage?" Thomas spoke, his tone now to that of admiration and slight excitement. Thomas had not had the pleasure of meeting many Half-Elves, but Gareth's features were noticeable enough to give Thomas the impression that the young man had some Elf blood in him.

"Ah, you're too kind." The half-elf found the knight's words endearing and returned a smile. It was only appropriate that he compliment the knight and appraise his service, for being a member of the Order that lived up to its true standards was something to be acknowledged. When the time came, Gareth too vocally praised the king, and he bowed his head to say his own wish for the king to have a long reign. The words Thomas used to describe the king's situation Harker nodded to, but he perked up more fully when he was directly addressed. "Yes, sir, I am. Born to an Elven mother and a human father. You are as well, I take it?" Harker took on an appreciative tone out of respect for Thomas's knighthood and of appreciation for their similar blood.

A less than confident show from the king's own guard. Well, he reminded himself, they were supposed to be realists not lap dogs running about pretending that everything was perfect for the king. The man had plenty of lords to pretend for him, ten men's was a good enough portion because he certainly had enough advisers to manage. Thomas was also correct to worry that the man's life was in danger. Bard Urien was the last of his name, currently, in a family known for its trouble in producing male heirs. Add to that that he had no wife, and the royal family sat in a position that ranked among the highest of noble-held nightmares. He stood silent as the conversation turned to elf heritage, something he had absolutely no versing in. It became his turn to listen and learn, amusing to the man considering the reasons they'd approached the knight in the first place. At any rate, it had been confirmed that Thomas was of elven blood, something he hadn't seen done during his time in the castle. Maybe it was just a matter of someone actually stopping to talk to him for once. Arduin II's court had been significantly more reserved than most.

"I didn't have the pleasure of an Elven parent, but I do have Elf blood coursing through me." Thomas said, with a slight smile. Thomas seemed to stand more at attention when Gareth revealed he had a direct Elven heritage, rather than the ancient bloodline the Morgan's claimed to have. Thomas bowed his head slightly, "I must say, though, it's an honor to meet someone with a direct line to Elves." Thomas spoke, speaking with a high regard to Gareth's parentage. Thomas glanced around for a moment before turning his gaze back to the group, "Night is here, it seems. I assume you two will be taking to your lodgings soon?" Thomas said, noting the lateness of the day. Thomas would have to take the night shift once again, guarding the King's bed chambers. Due to the preparations, however, Thomas would be guarding alone tonight, something he was not a fan of. Sir Redwyne had seemed fit to have the other members of the Order catch up on sleep, and the such, while Thomas guarded the king. It was a smart move, as everyone would be in top condition for the next day, and it was also a small honor to trust a single knight with the protection of the King during the night hours. No matter how much it honored Thomas, though, he would have to stand at attention for nearly 8 hours until he was relieved, "I have to take to my post, soon, so I will have to leave our conversation." Thomas added, as he once more tightened his white gloves over his hands.

"Oh no, sir, it's nothing of high importance." Gareth chuckled. "I'm only a mere common man, after all." He noted Thomas's lack of a direct blood tie with an elf, but he enjoyed the company of another half-elf nonetheless. Moonlight fell upon them as Thomas noted, and Harker knew he would have to leave to go home soon, for he would need the rest for tomorrow's festivities. Indeed he would rather stay, even take up a post with Thomas just to enjoy the luxuries of the palace a little longer, and yet he had a home of his own, the palace needed security, and he knew better than to concern himself with petty prodigal living. The half-elf nodded. "Ah, indeed. I need rest. My my, I'd love to stay too, but it is late." The brunet decided on retiring to his home for the night and returning at the appointed time tomorrow to the palace. The walk home would be a treacherous one for him, mostly since he left home without any weaponry equipped; however, he had nothing of value on him save for a pouch of a few pieces of silver and many pieces of copper, and he assured himself he wouldn't be attacked. In the meantime, he would stay and chatter. "How long have you until you gentlemen must depart? I can spare perhaps a little longer."

"Actually yes, I plan on sleeping very soon," Karl said, gently rubbing his eyes as the knight continued to speak. Naturally, he had a post to be at. It was fortunate that they'd managed to distract him for some conversation as long as they did. A distraction for himself, as well, the day had gone and died while he wasn't watching it. This was a new turn for him, ending sober, and he wasn't yet decided if he preferred it or not. Gareth seemed to be leaving as well, and that was fine with him, everything could wrap up nicely. He smiled to both of his conversational partners and figured it was his time to bid them goodbye. "I've enjoyed speaking with the both of you, hopefully I'll see you all tomorrow, and if I'm lucky a couple of days after that too." He chuckled as he turned away, tucking his hands into the pockets of his coat. His glee became a stifled grumble when he saw a man with red hair and a blue tie waiting for him at the door, leaned up against the door frame and watching the hallway outside. Leid made his way away from Gareth and Thomas, passing the man out the door, who followed him and cheerily introduced himself as their voices faded away down the halls.

Thomas bowed as Karl made his exit from the conversation, before turning to face Gareth, "I'm afraid I have to make my exit as well. I'll make sure to catch up with you tomorrow, once the festivities start." Thomas said with a smile, as he looked around the empty throne room, "It was a real pleasure to meet someone such as yourself, Gareth." Thomas added as his gaze turned back to the young man, "Have a nice night, Gareth." Thomas said, bowing his head, and then turning on his heel, making his way to the door behind the Throne. Gareth seemed like a good young man, and Thomas was excited to know another person like himself, and made a mental note to find Gareth after his shift was over. Thomas marched down the hallways, until he reach the Royal wing. Three guards, conversing amongst each other stood in front of a set of massive double doors, almost the size of the entrance to the Throne room. As Thomas arrived near them, wordlessly, they nodded and left their post, leaving Thomas to his night shift.

Sophia had turned, ready to follow sir Thomas, when another knight, bearing similar armor to the Lifeguard, entered the room. The two men had an exchange of words that the princess couldn't quite hear, and it was decided that the newcomer would lead them to their rooms instead. Sophia turned to the knight, an older man, and nodded when he declared he would be their escort. "Certainly, Sir Bull." She, Jezin, and the trio of servants began following the man down the hallway. As she walked, Sophia took a look outside the window. The day had faded quickly, and night was already setting in. It'd be her first night in the capitol. Even so, the next day was certain to be full of activity, and she would require a great deal of energy to make it through the entire day. Perhaps sleep was the best idea.

Jezin followed the princess and her servants quietly, his cloth-wrapped spear still leaning against his shoulder. He was curious how the next few days would go. The tournament was sure to be exciting, and though politics were not his forte, he imagined meeting the king would be interesting at least. He tightened his grip on the box under his arm. They hadn't got a chance to deliver the Empress' gift. No matter, it could certainly be done during the celebration. He noticed all the sunlight had faded from the outside. Night set in quickly in Keilaudrin.

Sir Bull led Sophia and her entourage through a multitude of halls, before arriving at a fairly large hall way with an end that had a large set of doors. Sir Bull approached the door, silently. It seemed not all of the Order of the Thistle were so eager to please foreign dignitaries. Sir Bull led the group to the set of the doors, and opened it wide. On the other side of the doors was a massive room that contained plush furniture, fruit platters set out on various mahogany tables, along with various doors that led to what one could assume to be bedrooms. Connected to the massive den was a balcony with a glass set of doors with long flowing curtains trimming the side of the doors. The balcony was bigger than most common houses. The room's pure size was amazing, and somewhat swallowed it's inhabitants, leading one to wonder just how elegant the King's room was, "You're lodgings, Princess." Sir Bull said, as he stood aside, to allow the entourage to enter their place.

Sophia quietly followed her escort. Sir Bull wasn't as personable as Sir Thomas had been. He was polite, certainly, but he seemed distant and not too concerned with the foreigners. No matter, the princess thought. She couldn't expect everyone she came in contact with to be a socialite. Regardless of his personality, Sir Bull led them to their room without incident. As he opened the door, a great smile crossed the young girl's face. The room was massive. The furniture and appointments in the room were of the highest quality, and fruit and other pleasantries sat out ready for the taking. It was clear Keilaudrin treated their guests quite well. Sophia quietly rejoiced at the sight of the great balcony across the room. She loved the open air, and spent a great deal of her time at home sitting on her balcony playing her flute and enjoying the weather. Sophia motioned for her entourage to enter the room. The servants nodded and quickly went to work placing the princess' belongings throughout the room. Sophia turned to the knight and bowed slightly. "Thank you Sir Bull."

Jezin entered the room, amazed at it's size. He had expected they would be treated well, but this level of lavishness was a bit surprising. He placed the crimson-clad spear in the corner of the room before checking in each of the bedrooms. The class of the main den spilled over into each of the side rooms. One bedroom was slightly larger than the others, and had a view overlooking the city. Jezin imagined the princess would choose that room for herself. He would take the room immediately beside it. The servants had been given a sum of money to pay for their affairs in Mullen, but it seemed there would be enough rooms for them to stay if they so wished.

Sir Bull nodded as the entourage entered the room, and he took his leave, dutifully shutting the door for them once they were all in. Sir Bull took back off down the long amount of hallways, making his way to Order of the Thistle's lodgings, where him and the rest of the members would grab shut eye and food before taking on the preparations for tomorrow. The knights were expected to be up far earlier than anyone else, in order set up an early post around the festivities. Redwyne would no doubt run the Order ragged the next day, making sure everything was ran in tip-top shape, something most knights weren't happy about.

The servants made quick work of the luggage, and retired to their quarters shortly thereafter. Sophia sat out on the balcony, looking out over the moonlit city. It was quite beautiful, the way the moon shimmered against the towers and spires of the palace. In the distance she could see figures of townspeople going into their homes for the night. It seemed everyone was preparing for the next day's events. Enjoying the peace and quite on the balcony, Sophia pulled her flute from the pouch at her side. It was a delicate instrument, and the carved ivory shone bright under the light of the moon. She brought the instrument to her lips and took a deep breath. A lilting melody drifted out over the balcony. It was faint, but beautiful nonetheless. The princess sat on a stool, rocking back and forth in time with the slow floating melody.

Jezin sat inside the room. He could hear the music outside on the balcony. Her usual routine, he thought. Sophia was the youngest of the Octavia sisters, and the only one with no martial training whatsoever. As such, she delved farther into the softer more refined parts of life. As her bodyguard, he had heard her sit out on her balcony playing the flute for hours on end before. For a moment he considered how odd his placement was. Here he was, a battle-hardened killer, entrusted with the life of this personification of innocence. He shook the thought off. Who better to protect her? He had removed his spear from its wrapping and was carefully polishing its blade. If he were to take part in the tournament, he would be sure Lyok was well-represented. His shield and helm lay beside him, already glinting, even in the faint torchlight that lit the room.

Gareth bowed his head to Karl and Thomas as they left him alone in the throne room. With them gone and the palace nigh empty for the evening, he judged that his best decision was to simply depart and go home, thus he pulled his cloak over his head and began the trek in the night. It was dark outside, and for a while Harker couldn't see well until his eyes adjusted to the dim moonlight. His footsteps were soft on the paved road, footsteps that lingered along the edge of the street tentatively. Silently a vow he made to visit that knight the following day, and in that the half-elf gave himself an excuse to return to the palace for the next day of the coronation celebration. Indeed they should have their king by tomorrow crowned, and both anxiety and excitement lingered in his heart, placed for many people and many things. Gareth wondered if perhaps things would proceed correctly.

The next day

---

Even as night came and went, activity went on in the city. Devoted cooks saw to their cuisine, night-shift stewards and builders carried out the very last preparations, and orders changed hands. Night over Mullen was peaceful and unusually quiet for the capital city, itself seeming to wait breathlessly for the morning and its revelry. Early in the morning, the ordinary trumpet fare was sounded in the palace, waking its inhabitants to the schedule of the day but heralding nothing ordinary for them. Stores and inns opened to what was assured to be the most lucrative three days of the year for them, and in fact the celebration of the common in the street began a step before the nobles and their morning feast. Naturally, the palace walls were still open to the world at this phase, and would remain so for a while. The fair grounds by the palace had been converted, now housing tents and stands of all manner surrounding, of course, a dirt runway where the tournament was to be held. Crowds filled both the fairground and the palace, making it difficult to ascertain who was where, and naturally the watch were scurrying about on edge trying to keep the schedule. Bard II had yet to emerge from the castle, meeting with his council and choice few knights early in the morning before he would lead them to the feast hall where the majority of guests were gathered. After all, he had to name a champion today, among other more political affairs. Both blended into the crowd, Karl Leid had already situated himself at a table and was enjoying the bounty he'd come to the capital for in the first place, and the steward Wallace was no doubt touring the grounds with the blue-tied entourage.

Thomas' shift had ended earlier in the morning, giving him a chance to eat a little, and catch a wink of sleep before going back on duty. Thomas now stood in the feast hall, next to the entrance door, opposite of another Order of the Thistle member. They weren't on post, as the feast hadn't begun fully, and neither of them were scheduled to be on post for the feast, but they both took it upon themselves to use this chance to scope out the guests, looking for anyone who might become a problem. Thomas nodded to the Order knight across from him, before taking off down the rows of tables. Thomas absentmindedly plucked an apple from a nearby table, and took a bite out of the crisp fruit. Thomas was thankful that everything was going smoothly so far, and hoped it would stay that way. As Thomas took another bite from his apple, he began to wonder who the champion would be for Bard II. Thomas himself was already counted out, as he was the champion for the Order of the Thistle. Thomas smiled to himself, for a moment. Of course it would be Sir Redwyne, or at least it was the option that would be the most sense if the King wished to win the tournament. Thomas also had his name removed from the melee section of the tournament, preferring only to participate in the jousting section of the tournament. Thomas kept up his walk up and down the tables, watching as guests slowly filled the place, taking bites of his apple as he went.

Ragnar wakes up. Today was the big day. Not that he really cares about the party, he just wants to hear the king about the issue in the north. Yesterday, Tursgud told him about it.

Tursgud walked through the streets. It's a lovely day. He's quite excited about the party. It seems that very important people are present. Not that that surprised him; it's the king's party.

A new day came, and the young Harker found himself again on the palace grounds, after he had a good night's rest and prepared himself for a good time. He passed again through an empty throne room to make his passage to the Grand Hall, where gathered a crowd was coming together for merriment by appetizing themselves with small snacks and few sips of wine. Gareth's stomach tugged him then towards the long table of food, where he snuck a plum that he now ate intermittently, himself meandering about through the crowd. The bowman didn't yet notice Thomas or Karl quite yet, although he figured they would be in attendance what with their work and intent. He was certain he made a good decision in coming to the palace that morning, for the sun bathed Gareth in its warmth even through a thin, split blanket of clouds and promised a good day.

Sophia had awoke early in the morning to prepare for the feast. She, Jezin, and the trio of servants now strode down the hall, heading for the morning feast. Sophia's golden circlet glimmered in the early morning sun as they walked. She was extremely excited for the feast. Maybe they would finally get their chance to meet this illusive King Bard. Jezin followed close behind her, once again opting for no helmet, spear or shield; and wearing only his sword and armor. The trio of servants was behind Jezin, chit chatting amongst themselves about the feast. One of them was carrying the box containing the king's gift. The group meandered down the halls for a while before finally finding the Great Hall. Sophia strode into the Great Hall, her eyes flickering to life as soon as they passed through the doors. The room was buzzing with excitement and people of all walks of life were quickly filling the building to it's brim. She glanced about, but still failed to find the king. She imagined he'd probably arrive later, and walked towards a table of food. She noticed the knight who had assisted them the day before walking up and down the aisles, casually munching on an apple. "Good morning, Sir Thomas." She said with a smile. Jezin stood behind her, trying to stay close amidst the mass of people.

Abruptly, the trumpets hailed again in a cry that could be heard even in the streets of the city, albeit muffled by distance and the volume of festivities occurring. It signaled the formal beginning of the morning feast, and alerted those in the city seeking entrance in the tournament to head to the palace. King Bard II, encompassed by a procession of guards and those who had been speaking with him only moments before. The man had a lot on his mind, and despite the stern, even look that had been trained onto his face an air of unease seemed to encircle the man. There were rumblings from Lachne, passed on to him from Hal Berning oddly enough by Wallace. However fertile southern land was, they needed those crops and allowing bandits to roam along the border was bad business, simply put. An expedition would have to be organized at some point. It wasn't officially on the agenda but he knew most of these people were expecting him to name an heir, oh, and his champion for the tournament. For the moment, he had a small speech to give, the real talking would start later and this was the day for mindless celebration. They had done much to make the man appear a king in the past few hours. His long black hair flowed around his head, and the hair on his face had been trimmed to an experienced but groomed stubble. As he and his closest council took their seats at the head of the room, Bard stood away from his chair a moment, and surveyed the hall a moment. Plenty of them hadn't even found a seat yet, but like him they do no doubt had bigger things to worry about.

He called the room to an acceptable degree of quiet with a broad wave of his hand and a nearly shouted, "Friends and servants of Keilaudrin!" He had to speak up to be heard across the massive hall anyway. "Welcome in the hospitality of the King. I see old friends and troubled faces in the crowd, but I implore you to forget the troubles of the realm, if only for a few hours today. Eat freely, and partake in the festivities of my coronation." The king allowed his words to hang in the air a moment, as he continued to scan the crowd as rehearsed. "The most important news I bring you this morning is one of sport. Among those old friends I see warriors in my hall, and I know you have come here to prove yourself in today's tourneys. It is my honor as king to name the knight representing the crown on the field today: as your Morningstar, Sir Redwyne Cole." The man himself bowed slightly at his post, to a round of applause. With that, the king felt the people had heard enough words from on high, and left them to interact among themselves with a simple, "Now please, enjoy today."