Sleep was harder and harder to come by the longer they were in the village and after so many years, Rhysln found herself having to find ways to force sleep. She had to be at her best for the upcoming events. She had to start off on the right foot. She took a deep breath, standing in the middle of the dining area of the house they'd all been staying. It felt a little empty without her faithful knights by her side, but they were out retrieving anyone and everyone that was willing to fight for the cause. She knew how to defend herself well enough that if an enemy made their way past the defenses, she could actually survive it. She walked out of the little hovel, stretching her arms over her head and looking around. Her sister was still drowsily dragging herself around, but she was already ready to go. She she pulled on her boots and started to the local tavern. It wasn't her favorite place to visit- she always felt it was a little too loud and there was just more going on than she cared to try and follow. But it was an easy to find place. So it had been decided that as the knights were gathering their recruits that was where they'd send them. "Bear with it," was what one of them had said when she made a face in response to that. She had cut her hair when they first arrived, trying to blend in a little more since her long hair was not something commonly seen among the town folk, but as it had been quite some time, she was able to pull it back in to a nice braid that went down her back to right about her hips. She had been rather pale since royalty didn't spend much time outside, and now she had a nice even tan, and she got one every time the warm seasons rolled around since she spent time working and training. She wore a simple hand maiden's gown, not even one with a print on it. It cost more than she was willing to spare, putting as much away to buy decent supplies for the expedition home as possible. She was leaving nothing to chance if she could help it. She did have to spend a little more on the boots than she cared to, it tended to rain hard during this season, making the ground mushy and muddy. Her first boots ended up stuck in a mud hole somewhere on their practice field. They were stuck but she still had kept going. It was the first humbling moment of her situation as she picked grass out of her mouth and mud from her hair- another reason she cut it. These boots laced rather than just sliding on and therefore held tighter to her legs. Though that meant should her foot get stuck, she was probably going to still face plant, but at least then she didn't have to actually dig the shoe out. She looked up at the tavern once she made the trek across the village to it, having taken her time to allow the sun to rise. This was it. This was the start of everything that was to come. The first step towards reclaiming the castle and removing the usurper once and for all. Never again would anyone pull the wool over her eyes. She reached for the handle, her stomach in knots as she wasn't sure what to look for or even what kind of people would have been hired. But she assumed they would all know to look for her, so there was that. She opened the door and stepped inside, looking around as she walked in, keeping her head held high and trying to not let the hardening years show in her eyes. They would have one chance though. Anyone who had bothered to come this far had to be willing to put in the further effort to go back to the capital, to face a foe that had the royal armies at his control. Hopefully the knights had chosen well, the whole campaign rested on their choices.

"And so we arrive," Jolu remarked mirthlessly. She leaned forward and peered into the canopied darkness before her. The Deep Woods certainly lived up to their name. Why wouldn't they? The place was well known to having an almost mystical quality to it's trackless depths. How a village had ever came to be situated within it's borders was beyond her. She knew it was there, they'd seen the the lights as they traversed the peaks earlier that week. Ilsibin was already searching his pack while she carried on. Seeing as they were both tired and hungry, Jolu would, no doubt, have some sort of snarky remark about the whole situation. He could almost feel it coming. He wished to the gods that, just once, she would stop talking about her disappointment and focus on... "Shouldn't there be a welcome party or something? They seemed pretty desperate for help. A guide for weary vagabonds with a safe hand to clasp?" It wasn't particularly inventive, Ilsibin noted, so perhaps she was more tired than he had thought. In either case, now was not the time to fume. His hand closed on the unlit torch he'd been searching for. "Too many bodies would attract attention. I also doubt they have the bodies to serve as glorified shepherds. For now we should do as our contact suggested and follow the light. Silently." Jolu's face petulantly tightened as she bit back words of her own and simply waited for Ilsibin to take the lead. As he entered the gloom the torch flickered twice. The third time it blazed into a purple faux fire and tugged the torch gently in the direction it wanted to go. With luck they would reach Farthing by the time breakfast was served.

Thom took in the sight of the village before him and chuckled. "The queen is staying in this backwater? Well i suppose i can squeeze a few coins out of this cesspit they call a town." He said to himself and moved forward, he was told to meet the others in the tavern and he reached the door just as the morning sun spread it's rays of light over the little village, most men were rising for breakfast or about to head to work so he wasn't surprised when he opened the door to the tavern to find it practically empty but what stood out was the woman with her head held so high her nose could cut the clouds. Either that was the queen or the peasantry around here had an unnecessary sense of entitlement, but he ignored the queen for the moment instead reaching into his pouch and pulling out a fair sized gold bullion and slapping it on the counter. "Give a round of whatever to my fellow early drinkers, and bring me whatever is for breakfast and your strongest ale i'm going to need it." He said aloud so that everyone could hear him. It earned him a few cheers for his effort and a look from the keeper but she went and did as he said. Still ignoring the queen he removed his bow from his shoulders leaning it against a chair and threw his black cloak across the back of his chair, as he settled in he studied the queen, she was quiet beautiful but that unnecessary highborn flair she threw off annoyed him she might of been much more beautiful in his eyes without it, but then Thom had never liked a woman with power or a woman with confidence "Give a woman power and she will walk all over you." His father had told him, in many ways that was the first lesson his father taught him. Finally he stopped looking over the queen and spoke to her directly. "Why don't you relax M'lady?" He said, adding a sarcastic emphasis on M'lady and a pause before he spoke once more. "You look like you woke up this morning and found the whore you slept with was still warming your bed."

"Lord Corbray returns! Lord Corbray returns victorious!" Came the cry from the south gate. Peasants stopped in middle of their chores as the words rang out, cries of joy quickly begining to sound throughout the dusty marketplace and the crowds gathered to welcome home their liege and his host. The banner of House Corbray, the teal snake upon a field of tan and burgandy, whipped in the wind as the thirty horses came to the gate at a gallop. At the head of the column rode a man that, were it not for the impressive plate armor and rich surcoat matching his house's banner, could easily be mistaken for a commonn farmer. With his receding hairline, thick mustahce and generally non-regal face, it was almost a comical sight for those unfamiliar with the man. Lord Krager Corbray smiled at the peasants as they cheered at his return, his pig-faced helmet tucked under his arm and mace rattling witch eager step the large spotted gray beneth him made. The battle had been a victory, and he took what small comfort he could from the fact that only two of the horses were returning riderless. He would see to those mens' families. Slowly the column came to a halt in the center of town, his gray snorting as it relieved itself right then and there. That never helped with speeches. "People of Farthing, my friends, we claim another victory over the usurper today! His raiders in our lands lay dead at Lake Karth, and Ovorion is reminded the people of Karthwasten will not submit to a traitor's rule!" He hated speeches, really, but they helped with the people's morale, and these days that was as valuable as a sword and soldier. The peasants let out another cheer, and Krager couldn't help the faint smile on his lips, even as he looked back at his exhausted soldiers. He dismounted with the aid of his squire, a younger woman of around 20 years of age garbed in splintmail and a tan surcoat. His troops followed suit, and within minutes they were in the tavern. "See to my men and feed them well! They've fought well today." He told the barkeep as he slid the handful of silver coins across the counter, then turned to seek out Rhysln. It was time to discuss the future.

Townsfolk stared at the enormous woman with the amber eyes and tattooed visage, but the enormous woman did not stare back at them. No, she was busy staring at someone she found rather exotic, strange and completely new to her... but it was all too familiar. Perhaps it was a sign. During her journey to the mountains, yes, she had passed through towns, hamlets and such, but this town.. this one was different. This one was where the one of importance-- this queen-- lay hidden, awaiting a new lackey to serve and protect the royalty and nobleness of a queen's being. As she strode through their strange building lined streets, she could not help but walk with the self-importance of a brave hunter, an esteemed priestess, a beloved mother and sister; a woman worthy of praise and respect. She could not help but walk this way, for she was finally here. This was supposed to be her new home now. But no, this was not to be like the home she once knew. For here she was not to be adopted as a new member to the family, like... oh, say... thatyellow-headed thing that took the place and station of a grand hunter and priestess back home in the Bellady Nation. Oh thatthing would be welcomed and treated like a sister, no doubt (but not a lover, never... said the slow-burning shadows at the back of her mind). Replaced... Yes, thatyellow-headed thing would be fed and clothed, doted over, danced for, sung for, danced and sung with until thatyellow-headed thing was given her new name. And the Nation would love her... absolutely... Because thatscrawny, blue-eyed thing could sing too. Such cleverness by the outsiders, thought the large tattooed woman as she lowered her cowl and raven eyebrows knit to deepen her scowl, such cleverness to sneak in one of their own... and such cleverness to pry out one that was half their own... Exotic. Delightful. Simply adorable and-- “--sexy, no?” Amber eyes cleared of storms and self-pity and she found herself nose to nose with a woman made of stone at the edge of a weak-willed water fountain. She also found that she held the wrist of the stone woman with a very intense grip; so intense was the grip that were the wrist made of flesh, bone and blood, a scream would accompany the sound a body part snapping. “It seems to me you made a new friend... awwww, Denni! Hahah--” The laughter of the little raggedy female cut off as the other tattooed hand of the huntress dove like a hawk and caught little raggedy female throat and pressed into windpipe underneath. “Not: Denni. Not now. Not again. Yes? “Denemika.” If Huntress/priestess must say again... crrrkt...! Understands--” Gasps and some panicked mumbles of on lookers sounded out, breaking the tense moment of silence as the huntress one-handedly lifted the street rat off the ground and brought her nose-to-nose with aggression incarnate. “--Understands, Rodent...?” Amber eyes glinted a deadly promise into strained green eyes. “Aye...!” even though the life was being choked out of her, raggedy pink lips strained to smile amiably, “...understands... Priestess.” The raggedy girl was dropped to the ground and immediately coughed violently then gulped air back into her lungs. Finally when she regained her breath, she picked herself up and brushed off her patchwork bottom. “Oh...and the name is not: 'Rodent'...!” said the shaved-headed girl as she rubbed at her reddened throat before hastily pulling up her hood, covering her head tattoos, “It's actually: “Radiant.”'Cuz I'm like that, right? A ray of light...! Whoosh...! Ya' get me, De-- Priestess? I'm meant for better things! Radiant... like the sun, radiant like a queen!” Even if not all the teen's words were understood, Denemika smiled all the same at the raggedy girl beside her. For although this 'Rodent' could be rough and disrespectful, mouthy and dirty, mistrusting and deluded, the huntress could not help but like the street girl. She was a full head and a bit shorter than Denemika, yet just as brazen as the Huntress. But underneath that smarmy and tough exterior, there was a good heart in there too. That and, never to be admitted by either one, each was just as lonely and misplaced as the other. “...Queen Radiant no fear, no shame...” Perhaps the raven-headed huntress felt badly for how she recently treated the shaved headed girl; almost choked her out as a warning really, but whatever the case, Denemika tugged at the patchwork hood of Radiant; just enough to reveal the teen's head tattoos once more. A soft smile held as the Huntress gently traced the pattern of one of Radiant's ink markings. The teen tensed up then slowly eased down as soon as she felt the controlled gentle touch of a woman that was perhaps once a mother, “...Huntress/priestess does not understands all times... but never let marks on head say no to Radiant. Free now, yes? Slave no more. Dream no more. Live, Radiant. Live now, yes?” Green eyes widened then glistened before slowly shifting to meet warm amber ones. “That's the most amazing thing someone's ever said to me, Denemika,” she took a quick, but deep breath, then just before she continued to speak, she cut herself off. Radiant did this two more times, then she looked away momentarily; back towards the statue in the water but without actually seeing it. When she was ready, she turned back to meet Denemika's gaze and nodded. The Huntress could see the lowered defences and the truth therein. Another steeling breath, then: “I'm sorry I stole from you, Denemika. Here... take it back...please.” “'Please...?' Huntress/priestess likes word. 'Please...' Radiant know what really steal? It from when Huntress/priestess was small. Girl only. First token. Means honourable thing. Radiant: Keep, honourable thing. Earned it. Keep honourable thing... 'Please...'” The teen girl's mouth dropped in astonishment as the larger, brown hand clasped the item into her own smaller, pale hand. Green eyes glistened that much more and perhaps a lower lip trembled. “Oh, Denemika... ohhh...you are too sweet and kind...! Thank yo--OWWW!!! What the all hells was that for?! That hurt!! Ow! Whydja' head butt me?!” “Same as when Mika was little. Remembers to never lose honourable thing. Never. Understands...?” “Wait. You got head butt when you were a little girl just so that-- OWWW!!! Okay, alright, already!! Aye, understands! Radiant understands-- wait. You just called yourself : 'Mika'. You never did that before? 'Twas always: 'Huntress/priestess so grumpy... Huntress/priestess so reach out and choke Rodent... Huntress/priestess smack Rodent, Huntress/priestess headbutt Rodent, Hunter/priestess ki--'” A large tattooed brown hand covered up a raggedy runaway mouth. “You earn right to call Mika by nice name.” Radiant nodded graciously. Mika removed her hand from the teen's face. “Right. Sooooo... what now, Priestess?” “Take Mika to woman of importance... to this queen. 'Please.' Then Radiant can go. No more help. No more pay for stealing from Mika. Radiant go home.” Young green eyes shifted quickly, glancing back towards the statue in the weak-willed water fountain before meeting the wild amber eyes of an eager huntress. A quick steeling breath, then: “Aye. Right. I will take you to the meet place, Mika--” Radiant bounded away with much enthusiasm in her step, her tattered and patchwork cloak trailing behind her like a waving flag. But a wistful smile crept up upon her raggedy lips. “--I'll take you there alright... but you're not getting rid of me that easily...” A small prayer did Mika offer to the stone woman in the water. Then she sprinkled some feathers from her pouch in to the waters before caressing the stone womans cheek.. It was all too familiar. There was a standing stone near a waterfall that her peoples prayed to just by the entrance of their village. They called her the Lady Mother of Greetings. They had one here too. But this one truly was in a woman's form. Perhaps it truly was a sign. <<...Perhaps this truly is my home here now...>> she said aloud in her native tongue. A wistful smile of her own pulled at the Huntress' mouth as she quickly bolted away, catching up to the teen leading them onward towards the waiting tavern front doors.

Winter had already been in the tavern for several hours when the exiled queen walked in. She'd set up shop at a back table, with book in hand so as to discourage conversation from the other patrons (not that it worked, necessarily) and enough coin for a meal so the barkeep wouldn't shoo her away. Winter picked at her soup every now and then, eyes trained on the pages of her book as she used her other senses to scan the raucous patrons (someone had apparently just purchased drinks for everyone in the establishment. The resulting cacophony made Winter want to roll her eyes). So far her target had yet to arrive. Winter was very practiced at looking the part of an unassuming young woman – she was small of stature, had youthful features, and knew how to keep her voice soft and her eyes down. This was a good skill to have as an assassin. It wasn't very good for a woman in such a crass town, however, especially one of "exotic" birth. Already she'd had to brush away advances (some courteous, some… not) from no less than four men. One of them had actually been forward enough to grab her arm, no doubt bruising the skin hidden under her sleeve. It had taken Winter all she could muster not to take her hidden blade to the pulsing artery on his fat, greasy neck. But she'd taken a breath, widened her eyes in a practiced look of fear, and glanced around the tavern until she caught the eye of one of the barmaids who came to shoo the man away. Winter could still feel his poisoned glare on her face as he looked from across the tavern. No doubt he'd be back soon… He was a proud, entitled man, in spite of the tattered rags he wore like clothes. Skies above, they better arrive before I kill him. It wouldn't do to blow her cover before the job had even begun. And as though someone had heard her prayer, the door to the tavern opened and in walked the exiled queen herself. Even dirty and hidden in this forgotten, unfortunate town, she carried herself as one would at court. Winter knew the look well – she'd seen it born on many nobles before she'd killed them. Winter felt her breath catch in her throat. Her blood pounded in her ears and all she could do was stare at the fallen Queen Rhysin. Pale blonde hair tied back in a braid, head held high, smooth skin taught over lean muscle that betrayed her recent hardships… Winter was overwhelmed, for lack of a better term. In that moment, all she could think was how badly she wanted to kill the queen then and there, her rage like a wildfire igniting her blood. She left us to die. It was the phrase that had echoed in her head ever since Ovorion had first approached her with this proposition. Book forgotten on the table, Winter pushed herself up. She'd spent enough years to hide her emotions under a blank mask, though she couldn't help how pale her face was, her blood drained away. With careful, measure movement, she pushed her chair in with a shaking hand and took a step towards the queen. And that was as far as she got before the man from before shoved himself directly in her path. Winter no longer had the patience to control herself, and deftly stepped out of his reach when he made a grab for her again. Coating her voice in the thickest Qiran accent she could manage, she mumbled, "Excuse me," and continued towards Rhysin. In the moment Winter had been distracted, the queen had been approached by another man. She caught the end of his acid-dipped words as she came close. He knows who she is too… apparently there is no love lost. Knowing full well that he might be another out for Rhysin's head (not that she would blame him) Winter made sure to place herself just the smallest bit between the man and the queen when she stopped. "H-hello," she said, her voice shaking. Her mask was well-crafted, but Winter's fury was an ugly, gnashing thing, crying to be freed. Her face betraying none of this, Winter glanced over her shoulder at the man still glaring at her. At least the oaf was good for explaining away her quivering words. "You are who we wait for, yes?" She glanced between the younger man and Rhysin, her hands still shaking, itching for her knives. "I… I'm sorry, I don't know the protocol for this."

Rhysln didn't know what she was expecting from the turnout but she knew she hadn't been expecting that. What language! Before she could even muster a retort, another stepped between them, a young lady who seemed anxious, and wary of the man behind her. She used to believe that people didn't have bad intentions from the start but her new found experiences had her backing up from the girl, leaving just enough space for a different blonde to place herself there. "Indeed she is," she crossed her arms, "Now who are you two?" she looked back at the man, "Oi, fatty, si'down, your company is clearly not wanted," she said before hearing the throat clearing behind her. "Nautica, is addressing everyone in such a manner really necessary?" Rhysln said, shaking her head. "It is. You're under no obligation to be nice to these people. Niceness to strange people offering to help is what landed us here," Nautica reminded her and Rhysln made a face that clearly said she did not want to be reminded of that face. Nautica was shorter than her sister, understandable with the age difference, and her hair was a bit longer since she hadn't cut it nearly as short. Her features in general were clearly younger but Nautica didn't have that weary edge to her. She had transitioned well enough and the behavior of the people around her had influenced her more than her years of training in court. And unlike her sister, she never trusted anyone until they proved they earned it. Which with one addressing her sister with such crass rudeness and the other seeming shifty at best, she was not about to trust them. Nautica turned back to the strangers and pointed at the table where Throm was sitting, "Have a seat. I'll personally pierce his hand if he comes over here so stop being twitchy. I don't trust it," she said, crossing her arms under her chest, "And if you ever talk to my sister that way again, I'll split your tongue. We clear?" she narrowed her eyes at Throm, "Now. Who are you and why are you actually interested in helping us?" she demanded. Rhysln sighed again, rubbing her forehead. Leave it to Nautica to believe she was to fill the role of the knights in their absence. She wasn't going to interrupt her since they did need to know who they were and why they were there, but she did wish her sister wouldn't talk in such a way. That was something she was going to have to work on when they had the luxury of time to worry about it. For now, she gave her sister a chastising and warning look, only to get waved off. Nautica knew a lot of people got the wrong ideas about their family's rule in general, especially her sister. Nautica mentioned it to the Captain that she was sure people would come crawling from the woodwork that blamed Rhysln for their people's suffering at the hands of Ovorion. He was sure he'd catch that before it happened, but he wasn't here and he wasn't perfect. She wasn't going to let anyone try and dismantle the Silverspring's rein over some false idea that they were at all prepared for what happened. The Silversprings had fought to bring peace to the country, fought to keep Caradia's fingers out of their business, working a mutual understanding with their Empress. Nautica was almost tempted to write her to ask for aid, but Rhysln insisted they had to be the one's to get back the throne otherwise no one would support the rule. So if they had to go about it this way, then Nautica was going to make sure those in her sister's company belonged there. She narrowed her eyes again at the two and put her hands on her hips rather than crossing her arms. Rhysln sighed and looked to the door hearing the voices outside, almost not surprised to see the lord and his men entering, "Lord Corbray, you've returned," she said, "I'm relieved to see you are well. Yet again we are in your gratitude," she smiled lightly, bowing her head, "Hopefully we shall be out of your hair soon enough and stop endangering this good town and your people."

His feet weary with travel, he trudges through the Deep Woods. His hood drawn up close around his face, no one would recognize the man as he stepped out into the streets of the small village. He heard the triumphant cry of the people as their lord returned, riding down on horseback toward a tavern of some kind. He smiles under his hood, keeping it pulled close around his face. His quiver of arrows bounces against his back and his bow is clutched tightly in his hands. Many would probably think of him as a Ranger, for they all carried bows and arrows such as he did now. But what many of the people could not see are hidden knives in his boots and a sword against his hip. The black leather vest he wore is slightly revealing on the top, going down to expose his collarbone in a deep V way. The vest only had short sleeves on it, so there is no reason to try and place on forearm sheaths for his knives. He wore loose black trousers and black boots, both great for travelling. He follows the procession to the center of town, where the man gave a grand speech. He leans stays in the back of the crowd, watching the man as he dismounts and heads into the nearest tavern. He raises an eyebrow, looking toward the small bar. Strange choice, m’lady, strange choice indeed. He walks over to the tavern, pausing just outside the door for a few moments. He sees the known Priestess Denemika of the Bellady nation coming toward the tavern. He decides at this moment to turn inside and walk in. The tavern is loud on the inside, customers yelling for more ale and the swish of skirts of the barmaids as they rush to deliver. His eyes scan the room, noticing creeps and thugs everywhere. But they noticed him of course. He is most out of place here for how he carries himself. They would know now that he is not a Ranger, but rather Blayze Corvana, the knight of the Queen herself. He walks slowly between the tables, his eyes scanning the room. Across the room he hears, “Now. Who are you and why are you actually interested in helping us?” He smiles carefully under his hood and heads toward the sound. He would recognize that young voice anywhere. As he approaches the bar, he hears the Queen’s good soft voice speaking to the lord of the town. He approaches them quietly and stands quietly next to her. “Your sister has grown quite confident and strong in my absence, milady,” Blayze murmurs to her, not looking at her directly. “Though I must say that she seems to be slightly pushy.” He smiles down at the Queen and says, “I have returned, my Queen. Though it seems to be ahead of a few of the people I have sent.” He drops his hood back away from his face and nods to the lord sitting next to his Queen. He notices that the Queen has changed in his absence. Her hair is shorter now and she has tanned a little more. Some hard feelings come up in his throat and he swallows them immediately, averting his eyes as a good knight would. Forgetting his manners, he falls to one knee in front of her. He stays there until she releases him. "Has Rand arrived yet?"

Thom Thom was about to say something else when a mousy woman walked over to them, judging by the way she carried herself she was not a normal woman either. She was just about there when a man cut between her and the group Thom stood up quickly his chair hitting the ground with a heavy Thud As he was about to move a short blonde spoke and the fat man sat down allowing the girl to join the others. "This just gets better and better he thought." He picked up his chair and sat back down, as he was about to say something to the girl, the short blonde gave him a tongue lashing. "The tongue on this one." He chuckled and continued, "I like her shes honest, and you'll find that people with my way of speaking are better than others, at least we are honest." His eyes flickered to the noble for a second judging the man by the size of his purse and then his attention was back to the three women before him. "I gotta give the fat man credit where it's due, he knows a beautiful woman when he sees one. If you ever want to share a bed just as-" He was cut short by the arrival of one of the maids delivering his food and drink. Pulling out a gold coin he flicked it and she caught it mid-air she looked at the gold coin and bit it to ensure it was genuine then smiled and walked away enjoying her hefty tip. "Don't spend it all in one place sweet heart." He told the maid and winked at her. Finally as he turned his attention back to the two members he realized they had been joined by a third, a knight by the looks of him but not a normal knight one that used a bow, he just chuckled taking in the three before him and spoke loudly so others could hear him. "Where are my manners. I am Thom Eicren, the best thief left alive in Waylox. Not that is saying much seeing as Ovorion gave a majority of us a necktie goodbye, as for why I'm here well I don't want to be facing the old noose knot he reserves for thieves and people who are no longer of use to him, as well as he stole something worth more than any amount of gold too me. Thus if you are his enemy, then i am your ally. And trust me when i say i would gladly kill the bastard for what he stole, and I don't kill people it's bad for business." He let out a small breath then turned his attention to the girl so she could introduce herself. Rand Rand had finally made it, after two days in the saddle without stopping, his armor sat in his horses saddlebags leaving room for nothing else not even a spare change of clothes, but finally he was back where he belonged at the queens side, he was surprised the horse was still feeling up to moving across the village, but just like him the beast sensed it's journey was coming to an end. Moving around the tall Amazon the knight threw his reigns to the tavern stable boy who looked in horror at the tattered clothing of the knight and the bandages that were wrapped around his chest some still red with dried blood. He looked like quiet the sight and he hated appearing to her majesty like this but it had to be done. After steeling himself the knight pushed open the door and walked inside, his eyes settled on the queen and princess first then they settled on Blayze, the other knight was a bit unorthodox with the bow slung across his back, but then a knight living in hiding was also a bit unorthodox. Getting on one knee and bowing his head before the queen the knight spoke his voice devoid of any kind of emotion. "I apologize for being gone so long m'lady." He said, and remained kneeling until his lady bid him to rise.

"Light's dead," Jolu chose to comment, even though they both could plainly see it. The torch and it's magic were used up, leaving just a plain stick in Ilsibin's hand. he sounds of a town and its people drifted to their ears, so at least they knew the torch had not led them astray. Neither was particularly thrilled to travel any further to reach it. But hunger and the comfort of a proper seat won out and they continued to trudge onward. As the treeline broke they were greeted with a quaint village thick with soldiers from a small army. A small part of Ilsibin railed against the fact that such a great number of people could make it through that forest easily. That part was drowned out by the need for food. The tavern itself wasn't hard to find, luckily for them. They stepped into... A heated discussion. Jolu and Ilsibin shared a glance and stepped around the group and made way for a side table. While Ilsibin motioned to the owner that they wanted food and drink, Jolu got a chance to study the gathering before them. "At least we;re not the only foreigners here," she whispered. "What do you mean?" Ilsibin whispered back. "That girl with them. The dark-haired one. She looks a little out of place. If I'm right and that's the queen and possibly her sister; the blondes. If the raven-haired one gets a good deal for her services, then we'll know what to expect of our payout and whether this whole trip was in vain." "That girl..." Ilsibin scratched at his stubble as a thought came to him. "She's Yeojin I think. A Yeo specifically, unless I'm wrong. What is a Yeo doing working for a queendom that stole her people's victory?" "What are two of Caradia's finest doing here?" she joked with no small amount of irony, while completely missing what the loud thief announced, "And here comes Rand, strait from providence." "He looks a little worse for wear," Ilsibin noted as their stew and drinks arrived.

Winter's sharp eyes caught the way the queen took an almost unconscious step away from her. So, she's not a complete simpleton. The other one though… such an entitled little brat. She cast her gaze down and gave a short bow of her head. "Forgive me my lady, it's just this place that you chose to meet at… I'm afraid I'm not accustomed to such places. That man is not the first here to have… approached me." With that, Winter lowered herself into the proffered seat slowly, making sure to steady her hands. This was no time to let her emotions get the best of her. Anger still licked at her skin, long-buried memories of fear and pain rising to the top of her mind in the presence of the queen. She just had to wait. She had a job to do. Her eyes snapped to the sole male of the group (or at least he was, until the two guards thundered into the tavern) at his bold words. She blinked and stared at him for a moment before turning away in a show of timidity. She remembered the way he'd sprung up from his chair at seeing the fat man approach her. How fascinating, she thought dryly, a gentleman and a pig, all rolled into one. After the thief – Thom, she learned – was finished introducing himself, he looked over to Winter. With a delicate clearing of her throat, she looked between the two noble sisters and began, "I am called Winter, my ladies. I am one of the few Qiran that remain after her Majesty helped to end the Yeojin conflict." Conflict. Such a gentle word for the massacre that tore her family to shreds. "I'm afraid I won't be very useful in combat, but my people are the most advanced in the art of healing, and I am well practiced. When I heard of this endeavor, I thought it only just that I help in any way I can… I would be dead if not for your intervention." Winter lowered her eyes again, finished. Her face was a perfect mask of calm, showing no outward sign of her twisting emotions. She glanced up though, every now and then at the sounds of the tavern – particularly any sounds of boisterous men, drinking more than their fill. She heard the door swing open and saw a peculiar pair walk in… it was a man and a woman, quite clearly eyeing their party. She saw their gaze linger on her too long for it to be just a passing glance. This wasn't particularly noteworthy; while many Qiran had fled Yeojin during the years of the genocide, very few had settled in Waylox, the culture and people too different to be comfortable. Regardless, Winter kept them in her mind when she turned her gaze back to her small hands resting on the table.

"You've no need to thank me, your majesty. I only do my duty as lord and as a loyal member of the nobility." Krager said with a smile, his armory rattling as he sat heavily at the table. The party present was....odd, to be sure. The first introduced himself as Thom, and already Krager felt a strong dislike for this one. Thieves made for poor company. The other was, to his surprise, Yeojin. He'd seen plenty when he fought in that bloody campain, mostly the savages butchering their fellows over some ethnic feud that to him seemed plainly idiotic. "Hail, friends. As lord of Karthwasten I welcome you to Farthing, and to this party." He raised his mug, the bright cider sloshing with the movement. "Ita good to see that there is still some loyalty left in this land." He paused when more entered the tavern. More foreigners, he saw, and then Sir Rand. He let out a hearty chuckle as he knocked back a long drink of the potent cider. "Strange that we've as many foreigners in this party as natives. No matter, any aid's welcome in these times."

Avarice entered the tavern, hoping that he had finally come to the right place. When he saw a group gathering around a woman of regal bearing, he knew he'd come to the right place. After all, what lady of the court would come to a place such as this? He walked over and knelt before the regal woman. "My queen." he said. I am Mikel Hunt, an archer and escaped soldier, and I have come to support your cause." He knew it would draw attention to her, but it was an understandable gesture, and would hopefully, at most make her uneasy. It would, however, endear him to her in a hurry, which would serve his purposes quite well.

The girl needed to stay outside of this impressive “Gathering House,” of that Denemika was certain. And even though the Ground spirits of this settlement (in fact, all the settlements save one, that she visited) had given her very... dulled responses, she could still feel them stirring. This truly was where this queen was hidden. And even though the Priestess was forbidden to speak with any spirits here until she performed proper rituals, she could feel the tickles and whispers of the agitated and excited spirits calling to her, to speak with her on this Side of the Worlds. The energy was erratic yet just too alluring as it jittered and wafted out from just beyond these doors. Denemika could feel the shorn-headed girl's gushing aura. Granted, it was rather sweet and cute of the teen to feel such heated emotions for this queen, but a gushing teen could only dance in warped circles and speak with twisted tongue right now. Denemika was of no mood to deal with that; nor should she. The importance of this initial meet bore too much in the balance; this meeting would either give Denemika of the Bellady Nation the right and reason to stand tall with the Queen Rhysln... ...or to slay her on the spot should the Huntress find her unworthy as a leader and Matriarch. No, Radiant needed to stay out here. And so Denemika basically made the teen believe how important it was to 'be the eyes of the queen where the queen could not see.' That was partially true, but the next offering was utter truth: 'It was best to impress upon the queen with the confidence that one acted with the queen's best interest in mind.' It did not take a Priestess of the Ground to see the signs of utter infatuation not only in the actions of bubbling teen girl but also in the sparkling green eyes of the bubbly teen girl. Denemika smiled, with an internal sigh of relief, when Radiant nodded several times enthusiastically then bounded off, actively sniffing out intruders, spies and assassins and trying not to look like one as she went along in her raggedy outfit. ~~~~~ So strange were these outsiders... they liked to close themselves in with their doors and walls. Did they not speak with spirits and offer them bargains in return for shelter from the elements? Apparently on the outside, they did not. 'Mika closed the door behind her and the thoughts in her skull appeared with the slight shaking of her head and bare perceptible smirk pulling up at a corner of her dark pink lips. And so here they were. The summoned. The brave answerers. Those about to die for the whims and desires of a scorned woman. A woman of royalty, noblisse and the utmost impeccable pedigree, but a woman scorned no less. Interesting, to say the least. The enormous woman strut forward, the sound of precious trinkets and talismans dangling from her powerful frame, rattling and tinkling with each step. Perhaps none could hear such things over the raucous and mirthful blabbering of excited males and over-worked wenches, but 'Mika could hear them. And she could feel the spirits, the curious ones at least, begin to stir up that much more and take notice that a Priestess of the Ground, a woman of elemental earth had arrived. A cloak of tanned hides stitched together with red dyed cord enveloped her huge frame and all manner of weaponry and religious or otherwise paraphenalia beneath. The cloak was lined with feathers and striped fur at the collar, hems and the edge of her cowl; Halajah, her bonded-four-legged sister's mother walked with the Priestess. Several long shafted pointy spearlike weapons were bundled at her back and were tightly strapped to her, pressing the white woven cord taut between her ample breasts. Tattoos rippled and flowed across long muscular arms but alas, her proudest ones were covered by her dark, tanned suede gloves. Her long strides continued as she glanced around the room, amber eyes flitting about taking in faces, postures and intent. All the while her head was locked in position, tattooed face forward towards her mark. Each soft leather, knee-high boot step was impossibly inaudible. There was no sound of clomping boot; eerily there was only the almost musical sound of the tinkling trinkets, whispering feathers and jewelled talismans that lined her person. Finally, she came to a halt and stood just a stride in front of the kneeling males. A single breath did she take as she held a pose, chin up, body rigid yet burning with the intensity of a predator on the hunt and boiling with the presence of the blood of ancestors before her. “This huntress/priestess is Denemika of Bellady Nations, First of Amelinas Huntress, Priestess of Namtista's Circle, Daughter of Torenika, Granddaughter of Minauren, Mother of Tomeni. Ground is her Soul, Hunt is her Blood. Live and die with Ancestors of Bellady. Denemika here. Denemika home. Humbly ask to be your daughter, Matriarch. Here now. Home now. For you and our family...” Amber eyes took in the lovely smooth visage of the youthful Queen Silverspring. Wild amber eyes waited for this one response, this one reaction, this one time, glistening with the contrasting hues of hope-- “...how you have Denemika now, Matriarch...? Where you have new daughter to stand, Mother Rhysln?” --and shades of single-minded murder.

Rhysln felt like there was a slew of voices coming at her all at once all of a sudden. First Throm and Winter answered her sisters demand for names, then during that process Blayze entered and she gave a look that acknowledged his comment about Nautica. She was about to answer his question about Rand when said knight entered and knelt. She went a bit wide eyed seeing his condition and as she was going to tell him to stand and check on his injuries, all still while she was hearing Throm and Winter's introduction, not missing the comment about that conflict, a rather sore spot in her memories- a personal failure on both her father's and her own part, they should have found a way to get there sooner. As she was to acknowledge the comments made about their company, another came and knelt as well, introducing himself as an escaped soldier, but before she could even get the chance to breath and say anything, a monster of a woman came in and spilled out a mouthful of a title before calling herself her daughter. During all of this, she hadn't missed the other two enter though they did not barge in on the middle of her current predicament, much to her relief. She took a deep breath, "Seeing as all of you came in at once, it saves the time of having to introduce myself multiple times. I know you know my title and who I am there, but none of you know who I am. My name is Rhysln, this is my over zealous younger sister, Nautica. First, Rand, you and our new friend Mikel may stand, we're not in court, so there's no need for such things, plus Rand, I'm worried with your apparent injuries that you might not get back up after kneeling too long. Which, hopefully, I'll get to speak to you two," she motioned to Rand and Blayze, "In a moment. To Throm, welcome to the company, I do hope we improve your "business" propositions," she said with a twitch of a smirk before looking to Winter, "There is nothing I can say to fix the past, as much as I wish a hundred times over that I could, and I would not blame you if your words are a little less than completely honest, but any help is appreciated. If only there would be someway for me to pay you back for it..." she took a deep breath before looking at Mikel, "I don't believe I've heard of your name before, but I'd have to leave the memories of that to my trusted trio. In the meantime, every able and willing hand is appreciated," she then looked at Denemika, "I'm afraid I did not get the chance to read up on your culture as much as I'd like before I was rudely evicted from my home, but it is honor to have such a well respected person in our company. I was not expecting anyone of the Bellady nation to be a part of this conflict, so I'm hoping you were not forced to join us. If so, then I cannot apologize enough. However, the same as with Miss Winter over here, before I can begin to remedy the situations the our kingdom have caused in other kingdoms and cultures, I first need to remove a certain pest from my throne. From there, I can easily, or at least more easily, address exactly what I need to the way I need to." Nautica went over to Rand as Rhysln addressed the company, doing her best to address them in the order that they addressed her, showing no intimidation at the towering woman, just respect at the fact that she was an important woman where she came from. "What did you manage to get yourself in to?" she shook her head, looking at the bandage across his chest, "We've got to get you properly patched up before we can even entertain the idea of going anywhere. Last thing we need is you keeling over from blood loss or infection," she murmured, looking over at Winter, wondering if it was too soon to get her to show her skills and help him out. She didn't want to interrupt Rhysln at the very least, "Both of you," she pointed at Avarice, as she spoke to Rand, "Go ahead and have a seat while we get everything sorted out," she said, patting Rand's shoulder before returning to the seat on the other side of her sister than Blayze.

"Must go faster...Must go faster." The words seemed to escape between each of Alniyat's labored breaths. Many of the locals watched her run buy with literal raised eyebrows. The foolishness of the situation made it all the more impressive, a girl clad in armor toting a zwehander surely could have afforded a horse. A greatfull smile appeared on the girls face, she had only been given the vaguest direction possible. "Started, to think....it was....a trick." She wiped the sweat from her brow and attempted to make herself look anything close to presentable. But it would seem 19 hours of running just shy of a sprint in your armor makes that just about impossible. All she managed was to make her hair look like its naturally a mess. As she opened the door the warming sound of merriment and shame greeted her along with the smell of...sweat? If she had the capacity to feel any more embarrassed about this situation she had likely achieved it. "May has well just get it over with." Her eye searched about the many inhabitants it may had been more difficult to notice them if not for the strangeness of the group, not every day you see 6'4 ladies and Rand.RAND...she withholds the desire to get starry eyed. (She doesn't have pictures of the strongest knights on hand or anything...nor is she going to ask for an autograph) Alniyat started to walk closer and noticed that a person of importance, otherwise known as the queen, or whatever you call a queen in this situation, is right there. She scorned herself for how she had paid little attention when she took the job, that when someone says something as vague as helping the queen they should probably mention that you are going to be speaking to her directly. Alniyat hesitated about greeting them,Queens can make knights out of who ever right? That means she could be a knight if she does this right, right? Wait, if she doesn't do this right she could get like labeled a traitor! That totally happened in a book, like the girl didn't answer the queen correctly and then it was all "off with her head!" and then the spade knights set chase through the garden, and then....wait thoughts are getting off track. The Queen did look kinda' regal though, but this situation would mean you shouldn't act like she's a queen right? So do you ju-- Her thoughts where cut off when she bumped into a smaller queen, er princess. When did she start walking again? Musta' been when she started to worry about beheadings. "Sorry runt. Err I mean Queen runt. Lady runt? How about M'lady runt?" She tried desperately to save this first encounter, till she eventually just sighed. Without giving the girl time to retort she cleared her throat hoping to garner the attention of Rhysln, "I was instructed to aid the true crown by meeting in this place, Er wait, I mean the White rose was hired to help you out, I mean....Damn it, just hang on a second." The girl reached into her satchel forcing out several loose papers one of which had an illustration of Blayze, and another one of note being a wanted poster of a certain loud mouth thief of whom she had not quite noticed yet. Finally she produced a letter with instruction and the royal seal. "Okay this, My friend will meet us after he finishes whatever your people wanted him to do. They said I would be told what to do when I got here....So yeah, what do you want?" After a moment she bowed her head slightly confused "Er your majesty?"

Rand The Knight stood and took in the room around him, his eyes settled first on the girl with the sword that was almost as large of the priestess that entered the room he wasn't sure what to think of the priestess or the girl but he found them odd. "Strange times make for strange company." He thought, his eyes settled on the two sitting over at the table. They were perhaps the only people he managed to recruit in his time away but they would prove useful in the end he was sure of it, the thief was a lost cause and there would be no getting to him the best the queen could do was send him on a suicide mission and hope he achieved the queens means before he died and he didn't like how the thief was eyeing the Yeojiin like she was a piece of meat to be had. He realized he had been stuck in thought too long when the princess put a hand on his shoulder he had to put the two at ease. "I'm fine..." He said and looked down at the bandages wrapped around his torso. "They've already been treated, and I'm afraid my pain is a luxury at the moment." He said, then once again proceeded to take in the room when he caught Blayze's eye he simply nodded at the other knight a respectful gesture from Rand then he turned to Lord Corbray. "Lord Corbray it is a honor to see you again. How goes the hunt?" He asked. Thom Everybody was coming in now and it didn't help that they were all jumping over each other to speak to the queen, which caused him to miss a big part of the Yeojiin's introduction, something about her was nagging at him she wasn't what she seemed to be but the thief had never been a great judge of character otherwise he wouldn't of been spending time in prison. As others filed in Thom studied them storing away everything from introductions, to the way they moved and what side they kept their coin pouch on. He took a few gulps of his ale not really paying attention to the food but something caused him to finally speak up. "Is it just me or does everyone else think it was foolish to send two knights gallivanting across the countryside looking for allies? I mean a spy could of easily slipped past them and could be sitting here right now. For all you know i can be planning to slip poison in the queens food or a dagger in the knights ribs. Those two wandering around looking for allies was like putting a big sign on this village and saying 'Hey come kill us!' couldn't you have done it with a bit more... Tact?" He asked, and immediately regretted it. The wounded knight shot him a look that could kill, and the knights hand shot to his blade as if the thief was actually going to do what he just said but it was not drawn he raised his hands. "I don't mean anything by but your making it easy, a drunken whore has more tact than you two." He stated, a grin crossing his face as he put his feet up on the table and ordered another ale but after he said what he had to say he said nothing else.

Blayze looks at Rand as he nods to him and Blayze nods back, rising up from his kneeling position. He walks over to the Queen and stands at her side. He never permits himself to sit down, for he feels he needs to be alert at any moment, just in case any crisis happens. He looks over as a young woman rushes into the tavern and his hand itches to go back up to his bow. It’s a nervous habit of his. But he relaxes as she begins to speak frantically to the princess. He lets himself relax, but only slightly. Ha. If the Captain knew he had let his guard down on duty, he probably would kill him. He scans the tavern, looking for any sign of the Captain. He then thinks back to when he and Rand left the girls alone and swallows hard. The Captain didn’t know that neither of them stayed with the girls, when at least one of them should have. He cracks his knuckles nervously and looks over as Rand begins to speak with the lord of the town. He listens through what the Queen has to say before she falls silent. He bends his head down next to her ear, putting his lips close enough to her ear to where he could whisper. “Milady, where is the Captain? He has yet to return and I am getting very worried. With Ovorion’s spies everywhere, it is possible that he—” He freezes what he is saying, not wanting to go on. The Captain practically adopted him when his parents died and he didn’t want to think about the worst. “I apologize, m’lady. I mean not to dismay.” He stands quickly back up and rests a hand on his sword.

"Qiran..." Ilsibin whispered as they continued to watch and eat. "A rare miss," Jolu quipped. As the tavern gained more patrons in the form of an escaped guard and an amazonian warrior, it seemed their chance to introduce themselves would never come. Ilsibin could, however, appreciate how well the queen sorted through the rabble and reestablished some sore or order. "Do you think a dragon will show up next?" Ilsibin's joke went unheeded as Jolu froze in her seat, eyeing Denemika warily. Jolu had felt something when this woman had entered. The spirits, the ones Jolu could never sense unless she focused her complete attention on them, had roused when she made her introduction. "Something wrong?" "That woman,"Jolu waved in Denemika's direction, "She's a spiritualist of some sort. I'm sure of it." Ilsibin noted Jolu's hand slipping to the scroll case by her side, before he leaned in conspiratorially, "Is she going to be a problem? Should we go?" "Sprituallists are always a problem for me, but as long as she keeps things civil we should be fine. She said she was bidden to the queen, so I don't think she'll risk that command by causing a ruckus now. In either case we should make ourselves known." Jolu decided to answer Thom's question once she was satisfied he was done listening to himself talk. "The queen could, I suppose, have made her summons more secretive," Jolu's voice rose as she did, "but then what would she have gained but the allies she already knew she had. I doubt all of us are spies or assassins. But they do say that, 'He who crows the loudest has the most to hide.'" "Your highness, Rhysin, I am Jolu Xoyr and my companion is Ilsibin Haeg. We've been graciously ivited to this gathering by Sir Rand. As fortune-hunters it is difficult at times to find gainful employment in a strange land. We would like to offer our services to you and your cause." "As for our credentials, we have been in conflicts all over the continent. We even participated in Caradia's war against the Hill King and survived. While it would be imploite to discuss the finer details of our work here, I can promise you that if you accept our aid, you will not regret it."

'Twas a simple task, really; keep the Queen safe from all manner of vile rubbish, lurking and skulking about seeking to end such a worthy and beautiful life of a royal. Those that would seek to defile such a graceful and lovely creature, Radiant should seek out, find and stop. Simple enough. And so simple was the task, that Radiant forgot what she was supposed to be doing. In these moments outside the tavern, the teen girl was spinning and twirling, dancing up a storm in front of a phantom audience. Ohhhh... but the Queen... The Queen in fact! She was here and the teen's mind was spinning faster than her perfected agile dance steps and well-timed, lithe fiery poses. But what would the Queen say to Radiant?!? What would she think of such a fine wondrous sight such as the shorn-headed teen girl? Would she love her dance? Would she stare with heavy forlorn look in her eyes? And if so, would lash and lid become heavy with enamourment as Radiant, the-soon-to-be-queen-beside-Rhysln Radiant, flowed and twirled for her beloved Queen like ribbon aflame, unbridled and wild like lovers forbidden... together for the first time. Rhysln and Radiant... Another twirl and sparks flirted from the teen's hands... Rhysln and Radiant... Green eyes lit up and tinted a wild yellow, like tall summer grasses under a hunters moon and fire-- nay, Fire bloomed from her hands... Rhysln and Radiant... ohhhhh... ohhhh such names together... Hands and forearms spun furiously yet with the years of expertise of a dancer from the Adestav Carnivale!!! winding up and spiraling together the anxious fire from her palms. She was an Elementalista right now as she twirled and floated to the sounds of an orchestra heard only from the heavens. Glowing hot orange ribbons of flickering flame chased and caressed her every movement... Rhysln and Radiant... Queen Rhysln and Queen Radiant... together. Forever. Souls intertwined from the moment-- Green eyes widened with shock and shame and the fire died like a sleeper waking to the realization that silly dreams are only that; silly dreams for silly girls and... Radiant caught the sight of her raggedy and patchwork cloak and let out a soft inward, yet sharp sound of anguish. ...dreams are only wishes unfulfilled; Wishes of the unworthy. The teen bit her lips together and her minds eye closed off the sights and desires of thoughts impossible, musings idiotic. What queen would ever be with such a raggedy dirty little thing? Green eyes glistening with shame as her chin lowered and she stared down upon raggedy patchwork gloves. Perhaps the Priestess was wrong... the marks on her shorn head, the ink, told the truth: 'No, Radiant. No. You are but only a Rodent in this world. You are worthless. You are street scum. You are nothing without the Carnivale. You are just a girl. You are just a stupid, lost, useless, used up, little girl. No one likes you. No one ever will. Why should they? Oh... and the Queen... THE Queen... you will never, ever, ever--' Green eyes sparkled against the impending despair and fought for her entire worth, all the way to the surface of her toiling dark choking waters of her mind... and she was allowed a single breath. For there she was... right there beyond this window was the Queen... The Queen... She was much younger than Radiant imagined... but oooohhh... such lovely long and warm and sweet autumn corn gold locks did she have... She moved with such importance. With such knowing confidence; a confidence that Radiant could only dream to own. Blue eyes as vast and breath-taking as yonder skies... yet in those eyes, a spark (like flame...!) of vivre beyond her years. Ohhh... she looked to be the same age as Radiant! But this teenaged girl had long, oh so long and flowing waterfalls of golden locks, and was gifted with actions and gestures made with blue-blooded royalty and oh... that... that figure, that lovely and oh so alluring figure neath that regal outfit, the lovely, and alluring figure that moved with only the noble poise and deliberate poses of one to be respected and... Green eyes drifted her away to another time, another place, another life with two queens together; one of gold and one of fiery ink. Diamonds twinkled in those green eyes as she stared and stared and stared at the sixteen year old 'Queen.' It was a good thing Radiant had finely trained muscles in that arm of hers. Her elbow rested upon the window sill, a loose fist holding up her head, pushing up at her cheek barely containing her goofy, smiley slack jaw. Were it not for strong arms, her pointy pale nose, gently pressed up against the pane of glass right now, should have smacked rather hard into said pane of glass. But no as it was right now, she was just leaning into the window, making it all steamy with heated exhales from her nostrils as she stared and stared and stared at young Princess Nautica. How jealous was the body of Radiant as the blonde touched and tended to the injuries of the fair Knight, Sir Rand. “...and loved... oh so loved, my Queen...” said Radiant with a voice muffled by a breath-heavy sigh steaming up the window that much more... ~~~~~ Apologies... really. That was what this queen had to offer? That was all? After Denemika asked to be a new daughter? Torn from her people like a screaming unborn from a bloody womb. Marched here like a slave at the beck and call of a strange owner. Here only to honour and respect words that were sworn to the Bellady Nation by breath and blood. Replaced by that scrawny yellow-headed thing?! And all this queen could say... no, all this squishy-spined girl thing could say was: Apologies. Really... What role did this queen want Denemika to stand in for this new family? One of the queen-sworn males, the heavily armoured Stoic Yet Honourable One, this Rand was speaking with the other heavily armoured Mirthful Elder One, this Corbray. They younger armour-plated male seemed to be better after being attended to by the Worthy Sister, this Nautica. But it was the other of the queen'-sworn, the Wild Stormings, this Blayze, that would prove to be an obstacle as he was at the ready. Another male upon knee, was far enough and blocked off by this Running Brook, this Alniyat, however... just something unsettling about this kneeling male... Eyes-Lowered in Iron, this Mikel... the spirits they stir at his voice... But anyways, this other non-out sider looking female, an Odd Steel of Tranquility, this Winter, rested aside; she was far away enough as well. A disrespectful and Body-Without-Head-Worthy male, this Thom, sat and spouted arrogance as it lounged at the honoured table in the Great Gathering House... such disrespect shown by outsiders... such a mouth... such as it was, he would be next after she was through with thisqueen. Then there was young Radiant at the window... but the teens girl's disposition was cringe and face-palm worthy... all this happening in the Great Gathering House. Apologies in insult and insults without apology. Such a place and state of affairs, in this place... Denemika could take no such insults any longer. All were distracted. All would be heartbeats too late from saving this queen, this unworthy Matriarch. This queen's head was to adorn a spear from Denemika of the Bellady Nation. Right now-- --but the words of another stayed the tattooed beast from unleashing Murder in this 'Great Gathering House.' It was an outsider with a strange yet familiar aura... It was the aura of one that she never knew could exist outside the island of wild huntress and proud priestess mothers, sisters and daughters. And this aura owner's voice had cut into Denemika's damning single-minded act like rays of blessed sun cutting through grey stormy skies. Oh, but such a voice; the voice of another kindred spirit whisperer. Another Priestess. Burning violence drained from the veins of Mika as she turned in full about face to Jolu Xoyr. Denemika peeled away her tiger hide-lined cowl to properly face this other 'priestess.' But in turning around, Mika had effectively turned her back to this apologizing queen. But whatever the case, Mika had forfeited her peoples right to slay an unworthy Matriarch. Murder would not claim the head of a lovely and youthful queen this day. For the presence of another priestess who would willingly allow herself to fall to the beck and call of this queen... actually calmed the enormous tattooed woman. Perhaps this queen was not unworthy... perhaps this queen'swisdom had summonned only the worthy afterall. Perhaps this queen could prove herself to be a worthy leader afterall... Mika's chin rose sharply, and large tattooed hands held in front of her, near her chin, palms facing outward, and fingers stretched out wide. Then slowly her hands drifted towards her waist in time with deep respectful bow. After she saluted the other 'priestess,' Denemika slowly backed away and awaited the wisdom and wishes of this queen. But not before quickly glanceing up at the window. Radiant still fogged up the window as she stared longingly... and otherwise... at Nautica. If Mika had the audacity to facepalm right now she would have. But instead she just closed her eyes tightly and with furrowed brow, she hoped against desperately overwhelming odds that her teen companion would not be spotted in such a state.