Arcaea/Dining Hall Late 08-09/Edara and Jenred's Royal Wedding/The Wedding
By this point in the tournament the vast collection of vagabonds, hangers on, servants, advisors, merchants, mentors and children that always accompanied a host of nobles had turned the walkways between the rows of tents into a kind of regulated swamp. Venturing out into the mass of pushing people that constantly rushed about was not a thing for the delicate. Nevertheless, several scribes who would have much rather been copying out copies of important letters in cosy studies were forging their way to various strategically chosen crossroads.
"Hear ye! Hear ye!" the announcers shouted, producing variously tuned bells. "Hear ye, hear ye! The Royal Wedding is to begin at noon today! His Royal Majesty King Jenred Bedwyr of Arcaea and Duchess Edara Kindon of Nocaneb will be wed at noon, outside the Temple of Magna Aenilia Ecclesia!"
Throughout the tournament grounds the bells and voices could be heard, calling nobles and peasants alike to witness the joyous event. On the grassy space outside the moderately sized temple of MAE, a platform had been arranged to raise the bride and groom above the crowd. Its wooden construction was almost completely hidden by the expensive and colourful fabrics draped over it, with the holy Sanctum of MAE, the Royal Unicorn of Arcaea and the arms of the happy couple featuring prominently.
There was seating for the nobles in front of the platform, with a large area for their entourages at the back. Around the entire affair was a ring of guards, holding back the peasant masses who were eager to see their royalty married. A path was kept clear to the temple, and down this ran two curious thin wooden half pipes, connecting the stage to the temple.
Atop the platform stood High Priest Dren, doing his best to look calm and pious, dressed in a holy robe with the Sanctus featured prominently on his chest. He was joined by Auctoritas Ronon of Greater Aenilia and a lesser ranking priest-in-training. The tall, long featured high priest turned to the temple and drew a circle with a dot in the center on his chest. He mumbled a few words of prayer, and then turned back to await the couple and accompanying crowds.
Dren Kandurell High Priest of MAE
Jenred stood, eyes closed, taking long deep breaths. This was it.
He opened his eyes, and looked himself over again, looking for anything out of place. He was wearing a set of his formal leathers and cloak, but instead of his usual dark grey, he stood resplendent in cinnamon flames that matched his eyes, and his cloak flared a brilliant red. His usual Phoenix Ascendant emblem was picked out in ruby-red, with a green, flowering vine wrapped around it. His red-gold hawk-in-flight pendant, with ruby eyes, of course, to counter Edara's pendant with emeralds, rested just so. His hawkshead ring, in a similar red-gold with ruby eyes, crested his left hand. The new belt-knife rested on his hip, the hilt matching the rest of his adornments perfectly. The circlet of Arcaea, his preferred piece (the crown being an unwieldy thing only suitable for sitting on a throne), sat well upon him. His hair was hung loose, straight down to the bottom of his shoulder blades, with just a slight curl at the end tucking against him. It had been braided here and there with some gold...Something that made it look as though the raven-black of his hair was shot through here and there with gold. Jenred had seen it done, once upon a time, and asked Idelle knew where he could find someone to do it. Edara's handmaid had snorted, and summoned the lady's maid she'd hired some months before. Apparently the woman was skilled with dressing hair, but was a bit...haughty. He might have to do something about that, couldn't have any of the other servants looking down on Idelle...
Everything was set. He even had the braid of hair, and the new ivory portrait, safe in his secret pocket under his Phoenix and vine emblem.
He took one last deep breat, and strode out to meet Dren, meeting the shouts and applause of the assembled crowds. He could tell the High Priest was nervous as well...And Jenred just hoped that they would pull it off without a hitch. Because, by all the Aenil, he was going to give Edara a wedding to brag about!
Sir Jenred Bedwyr King of Arcaea
Siobhan admired all the trouble the Arcaeans had gone through, or rather, the Royals had. This was by far one of the most thorough, perhaps exaggerated displays of class, nobility and wealth she had ever attended. To host an event of this magnitude was already madness, but to do it in wintertime… Incredible. She watched as King Jenred entered the ‘arena’ as she thought of it. She noticed he too liked to express himself with semi-precious and precious stones, as did his future Queen, the Duchess of Nocaneb. She liked that. It even seemed as if they actually knew what they were doing with them and that they could grasp at the full magical potential gems provided. She stroked the large amber pendant on her chest, hidden under her dress. She felt somewhat out of her usual self, dressed like this, even though she had done so for many years, before she returned to the life of the sword. She focused on how great she looked right now, in a dress that brought out her eyes and hair, and discretely made-up. Not all of the lessons she learned from Guillaume had been about arcane knowledge and Truth…
Her gown was much less adorned than most of the ‘peacocks’ –as she called them- standing and sitting around. The only decoration of the indigo-blue dress was her crest, embroidered on the front of her right shoulder. It was the first time she wore it, even though she had it made a little over a year before, when she was made a Countess. There never had been good cause for it. She stood quietly, sided by her squire, also cleaned up for the occasion. Perhaps she shouldn’t have brought her but hey, it would probably be the high point of the girls’ life, to witness a Royal wedding from close-by. Siobhan just hoped none of her brethren would notice too much. She wouldn’t want them to start thinking she had gone soft, as most women do when the topic of weddings -or babies- comes up.
Lady Siobhan O'Ways Countess of Itomazh
Goffrey added the finishing touches to his armor, polishing it to a sheen, before giving it one last look over encase he had missed anything. Satisfied that it was in fact spotless, Goffrey began the long and tedious task of actually putting the thing on.
Normally Goffrey abhorred plate mail suits of armor, preferring the much more sensible and flexible chain mail undershirt over the cumbersome, uncomfortable, and damn near impossible to get on plate mail. But this was a wedding, a special occasion, and DAMN IT if he wasn't going to look good.
And look good he did, his armor almost polished almost white, it was a formal variation of the regular plate mail, so it was twice as cumbersome, uncomfortable, and damn near impossible to get on, but it was probably the most formal thing Goffrey owned, so he would have to endure it like he always did.
Goffrey did not know what the Best Man usually wore to weddings, hell he didn't know what regular people wore to wedding, as he had never actually been to a wedding before. He had no idea what to expect, or what would come at him, but he would deal with it when the time came. However that assurance did nothing for his nerves, which ate away at him, preventing him from sleeping all of last night.
An hour or so of getting his armor on, and Goffrey was ready to go, grabbing his dark blue silk cape and tying it in place as he strode out the flaps of his tent, pausing only to grab his helmet, before marching forth to face the day.
Walking towards the place of the ceremony, Goffrey pulled his helmet out from under the crook of his arm, still unsure if he was going to ware it or not. On his way he spotted Jenred, and fell in steep next to him, patting him on the shoulder in a reassuring manner, all the while smiling weakly.
"So," he said chuckling lightly,"Nervous as I am?"
Goffrey Massey Baron of Sasat
Madelena was so excited for Edara. She was just disappointed that there had been no time for the two of them to meet before the wedding ceremony. She had sent her a short note that morning saying that she was there for her and then had turned her attention to getting ready.
This was no easy thing to do. Tenal had brought her a new puppy to make up for the fact that she had lost her old friend Fangs and the little one demanded a great deal of attention. No sooner did she think it was asleep on its little bed beside her's in her tent then it would awake and start lightly chewing on something or someone.
She picked it up in her hands and rubbed her nose on his.
'Tenal thinks you are a mutt! But I think you must be pure blood for you are so cute!' She then cradled the little wriggly creature in her arms as Sarah desperately tried to do her lady's hair.
Then Cypreana showed up and there was much hugging and kissing for the two sisters had not seen one another since they had both left Sartania. Cypreana looked flushed and Madelena was tempted to prod and poke her for information as to why, but she was beginning to feel rushed and so pushed it to the back of her mind, making a mental note to bring it up later at the banquet.
'Cyp, I have to go. I have a role in the wedding. Can you hold him for me?' she asked, indicating to the puppy and half holding it out to her sister.
'Of course I can Maddy. Where did you get him from? I heard about Fangs. I can't believe he is gone.'
'Tenal got him for me. He is around somewhere. His tent is next to mine. Where are you set up? I shall have to come and look for you later, or you can come here.'
'Tenal!' Exclaimed Cypreana. 'I have a bone to pick with him!'
'Oh Cyp, please be gentle with him. He showed me the scars from where you hammered glass in his back,' and Madelena giggled. ' I wish I had been there to see it!'
Cypreana couldn't look cross if she tried when Madelena was in such a good mood and she certainly seemed to be extremely happy.
'OK I'll be good,' conceded Cypreana. 'But if he hurts you one more time I swear it will be the last time he draws breath!'
Madelena hugged Cypreana and then handed over the puppy as she rushed off to the place where the wedding was to take place. She slowed down as she drew near and stuck her chin in the air. She pretended to feel the part even if she didn't think she looked it and smiled at everyone as she went by, hoping to make out Tenal's face in the crowd.
Lady Madelena Rossini Imperial Magistrate of Arcaea, Countess of Orbeh
Jenred grinned wryly at Goffrey.
"Oh, probably more. I've only been planning this for more than a year, with an Aenil seemingly dogging my steps to spike this wedding every time I turn around. I just keep wondering what will happen next..."
Jenred kept himself stilled, breathing long, deep, slow breaths to stay calm. He nodded and smiled at Dren and the other Priests, attempting to radiate a soothing aura of command. He normally pulled it off nicely. He figured his odds today were...somewhat lower.
Sir Jenred Bedwyr King of Arcaea
Edara made her way out to the platform feeling…oddly calm. Leading up to this day, there had been so many things that had worried her: the vows, the gifts, the tourney, the ceremony…but now that it was actually happening, she was serene.
She also felt quite lovely in her gorgeous dress. The dark green satin bodice fit her curves perfectly, and was edged along the front lacing with little silk lily flowers. The flowers crossed her shoulders where a filmy gauze in the palest celadon draped into full sleeves. The same gauze floated from her waist over a full silk underskirt that swirled in varied hues of green. Edara was most delighted with her cunning satin boots that laced all the way to her knees and added a couple of inches to her less-than-lofty height. A delicate circle of flowers crowned her gleaming red locks, which fell, otherwise unrestrained, in long waves to her waist. She wore, of course, her hawk-in-flight pendant about her neck, the emerald eyes a sparkling match for the drops at her ears and in the hawks-head of her ring.
Her attendants—the Imperial Magistrate Countess Madelena Rossini of Orbeh, the Duchess Marle Crowley of Remtom, and her own cousin, Lady Harmony Kindon of Nocaneb—were all resplendent in their own wedding finery. For once in her life, though, Edara felt she held her own, even in the company of the undisputed beauties of Arcaea.
As she approached the platform, Edara did not hear the crowds nor see the watching nobles. Her eyes were only for Jenred. He had never looked more beautiful.
Lady Edara Kindon Duchess of Nocaneb
Looking on the wedding procession, with Duchess Edara looking radiant, and King Jenred so handsome, everything looked perfect. Tenal felt a distinct pang of jealousy somewhere in his gut. Which was odd. Large ceremonies were never his 'thing'.
Nevertheless, he was cheering and clapping along with everyone else. The grand event had come.
With a grin, his eyes slid towards Madelena, looking like an angel in her dress. After that, Tenal wasn't certain where to look at. The royal couple, or his love. Everyone looked so happy and beautiful. Truly a magnificent day.
Sir Tenal Quasath (Knight of Orbeh)
Arlian struggled...And utterly failed to keep his eyes on Jenred and Edara as he should. His gaze kept wandering to Harmony, standing on the opposite side of the circle, opposite Goffrey. She was...gods, gorgeous...The white dress, splashed with pearls, was perfect for her vibrant beauty. She shone through her dress like the sun blazing through a prism...
Arlian smiled like a sot, drinking in her beauty...
Sir Arlian Bedwyr (Knight of Orbeh)
"I still don't understand what was wrong with what I chose."
Tharion carefully made his way to a seat, being careful not to swipe someone with the scabbard that hung from his belt, or to get his cape caught on anything. He was thankful to have arrived in time.
To say that Pierre le Fon had been horrified after walking in and seeing Tharion dressed in his typical black leggings and tunic would have been doing a diservice to all those who have ever demonstrated the physical and emotional displays of an horrific experience. Tharion wasn't really sure what he could call Pierre's reaction but it did include bouts of crying, one period of fervent prayer, extremely colourful (and entertaining!) language and threats of both a physical and spiritual nature. He wondered whether such emotional outbursts were typical of the Arcaeans but had decided not to pose the question out loud.
For his part, Pierre argued that he couldn't understand how a man who warred in golden tinted armour could be so averse to expanding his wardrobe beyond black and white.
Tharion did believe that not having to wear a bright green hat adorned with a dyed yellow ostrich feather was a reasonable request.
A unicorn and snowflake, for the love of the Aenil!
Tharion spent a lot of the argument looking threatening which was a lot easier than forming a coherent argument.
Pierre threatened to leave Tharion's service.
Tharion was disappointed that the threat wasn't carried out.
"What about the cape?"
Tharion's eyes lit up.
"It's twirly."
Watching the exchange, Rowan couldn't help but think that his Lord was a complex man.
Tharion Frostnova Duke of Lasop
Tammo arrived at the Temple wearing silken robes colored a deep forest green. After making sure that the man he had hired was in the proper position (all the while sincerely hoping that after the wedding was not too late to give his gift), Tammo took a seat towards the back in order to better see the whole proceedings. The atmosphere was so charged with excitement, it was impossible not to be happy. It was incredible to see all of his friends and many more nobles he did not know all present in their full fashionable glory. There was Goffrey looking every bit the hero in a gleaming suit of armor; Lady Harmony appearing as beautiful as always; and of course the celebrated couple themselves dressed to the nines and beaming with joy. Tammo had never been too concerned with romance - he had always been preoccupied with more bellicose arts - but the scene before him was enough to make any man want a woman of his own.
Tammo leaned back in his chair, glad to see that the sky above was sunny and a beautiful clear blue. He rather hoped that sky artillery show - what was it called...ah yes, fireworks - would be on display tonight. He had set up his tent right near the group that conducted the show; they were extremely loud, but damned if it wasn't a sight to see.
The sound of the proceedings beginning brought Tammo's attention back to the wedding. He could hardly believed that the long-discussed wedding was actually happening. Aenil be praised, this was certainly Arcaea at its finest!
Tammo Hlessi Count of Saex
At the wedding, attention is drawn to Sir Baz Grindle, as he storms through the crowd, without really waiting for them to part for him. As he bumps shoulders with another man, the man notices him carrying a bloody dagger part-concealed under his coat.
Baz: Yes? You want something?
Baz tosses his head and goes straight to the food, taking a plate, ignoring the queue, and piling it with meat, before standing generally in the way of things, trying to dilute his bad temper with food.
Sir Baz Grindle (Knight of Rrerat)
Watching the King and his future Queen approach, in all their royal regalia, brought a swell of Arcaean pride to Dren's heart. The most caring Duchess in the land and the most popular King ever to sit on the throne of Arcaea, each with a love for the other stronger than anything the High Priest had seen before. There could be no better match.
He felt a stab of doubt, and suddenly the realisation dawned that here he was, standing in front of a great gathering of the nobility, with countless peasants watching on, about to marry what were probably the two most powerful nobles in the kingdom. He was a viking! A warrior! The priestly robes felt very silly, all of a sudden. Closing his eyes Dren held back these feelings, before looking directly at Jenred. Even on the day of his wedding, the man was capable of exuding an air of confidence. This was the mark of a King. Drawing strength from this embodiment of royalty, the High Priest returned the King's smile, turned to nod to the priests either side of him, and raised his arms for silence.
"Welcome to this most joyous occasion," he declared to the crowd, "where King Jenred Bedwyr of Arcaea and Duchess Edara Kindon of Nocaneb are to be married! The Aenil truly smile upon this blessed union, and it is with great pleasure that I stand here as proof of their approval. I have seen the great love that King Jenred and Duchess Edara hold for each other, and I know that their union can only lead to happiness. The Aenil value pure intentions, and I can think of none purer than the love between this couple."
With a clap of his hands around twenty children ran out from under the stage, the sons and daughters of minor noblemen, and began to sing and dance. There were pipes and drums to accompany it of course, and the tunes were light and merry. While this occurred, Dren turned to the priests behind him and gave them a smile, before holding a quick whispered conference. Deganis, the least senior, disappeared off the back of the stage. When the song and dance was finished, the High Priest addressed the guests once more.
"King Jenred, Duchess Edara, tradition bids me now caution you on the solemnity of the pact of marriage that you are both about to undertake. Once you have joined yourself together in holy matrimony, before the sight of the Aenil, there can be no going back. Your intentions must be pure, and if there lingers in your mind even a small doubt of your sincerity, then you should not go ahead.
"Edara Kindon, are you certain that you wish to be married to Jenred Bedwyr?" Dren waited for her reply, then continued, "Jenred Bedwyr, are you certain that you wish to be married to Edara Kindon?"
Dren Kandurell High Priest of MAE
Edara smiled at Jenred and then at Dren.
"I've never been more certain of anything in my whole life."
Lady Edara Kindon Duchess of Nocaneb
Siobhan was watching the spectacle the High Priest was making of it with her arms crossed. ’Typical of a male-dominated religion… mistaking impression and effort for results…’. The dancing and singing children at least were nice. There was always an air of sincerity to children, even if they were performing a strict routine that they had probably been practicing for the better part of the year. What a pity it would be if one of them were to trip right now… it would break the entire atmosphere of exuberance. She contemplated a small spell but finally decided against it. The brittleness of shows like these proves itself best over time.
When the High Priest finally spoke up, he asked the King and Duchess a question that boiled down to ‘are you really, really sure?’ Siobhan grinned and her sarcastic side spoke up inside her: ’Absolutely. No, she should say; “Come to think of it, no. What the hell was I thinking to want to marry this pompous over-dresser that will probably be more interested in his horses than me in a year’s time, when I will have bore him a son?” Sure. That’s what she’ll say and we’ll all go back to the tourney grounds, drink until we fall over and sing lewd songs in our nice dresses.’
Nah. She wasn’t all that bad, and that King bloke looked like a decent enough chap that she’d allow to buy her a couple of drinks, provided they be strong. But that High Priest sure looked like he had seen better, more glorious days… She was sure he’d feel a damn sight better swinging his axe through a monster horde any day.
Lady Siobhan O'Ways Countess of Itomazh
At the back of the temple, Aerywyn stood alone amidst the crowd, content to watch the proceedings till it was his time in the proceedings. He watched bemused as the children ran about, half-hoping that they do something inappropriate, at least for the hell of it. Dren too amused him, for not even the robes of a priest could stop a viking sticking out like a drunken bastard at a tea party.
He was finally adjusting to the idea that perhaps there might be a day or two free from any cares, woes and worries, when there was the sound of a distant but noticeable ruckus behind him. Aerywyn hissed a curse and resisted the urge storm out too violently lest he offend the bride-to-be. The crowd rustled like a wave outward from him, and the giant wooden doors were thankfully muffled a bit by the murmurings from the front of the temple, all those too oblivious to notice the commotion. After being asked, a guard led him to the dining-entrace hall, where the noise had been heard.
The guard nodded towards the brute stuffing himself with all kinds of delicacies. Aerywyn scowled. His eyes went straight to the cloak held protectively over something. The captain on duty marched towards the Chancellor, standing to attention and quickly explained.
“Sir Baz, so we know… it’s a bloody knife if your wondering…”, he stated bluntly.
Aerywyn sighed wearily, not knowing whether to deal with this personally and risk missing the wedding, or to just let someone else handle it. He rubbed his forehead, before locking eyes with the captain again. He looked to be a capable man. Aerywyn couldn’t stop his mouth quirk at the corner.
“Take it off him however you can, and get him either to calm down or… well carry him out if you have to”.
Before the captain could reply, Aerywyn had already turned on his heel and was sliding quietly through the doors beyond into the temple proper.
Aerywyn Haerthorne Imperial Chancellor of Arcaea
Jenred breathed out the words.
"Oh...I've known for years..."
Jenred's eyes blazed, glowing brightly with cinnamon flame.
"Yes."
Sir Jenred Bedwyr King of Arcaea
Ronon stood in his place, watching the activity. He knew what his place was, but if he had been able to control the ceremony, he would have removed certain parts. He understood how rare an occasion this was, being a wedding and a royal one at that.
He looked out over the crowds without appearing to, a skill he had mastered long ago. He noticed several nobles looking less than joyous. Standing out more than the others was a women with her arms crossed. As he looked, she grinned, and Ronon almost lost his composure. He thought she may have seen him looking. He quickly looked away.
Ronon Bellamon Auctoritas of Greater Aenilia
"Excellent!" Dren exclaimed, trying not to smile too foolishly. Feeling the solemnity of the occasion becoming unbearable, he leaned forwards to share a private word with the happy couple. "Between you and me, I really wasn't expecting any huge surprises."
He turned around to see his acolyte, Deganis, and Auctoritas Ronon hefting two heavy amphoras onto the stage. They were patterned with the holy symbols of the Aenil, with a definite motif of water. Striding over to a table set up on the platform, the High Priest produced two intricately carved miniature ships. To the nobles arrayed in their seats they would be just recognisable; the peasants would see but distant glints of gold. Only Jenred and Edara were able to fully notice the attention to detail with which they had been carved, the gold and silver that had been laid into the wood, and the colourful gems encrusting them.
"Let the Ceremony of the Twin Ships commence!" The models were indeed identical in every way, save for the J (for Jenred) on one sail and the E on the other. Dren stepped forwards to hand Edara and Jenred their respective ships. "Just as I said," he murmured, "You must each release your ships down your respective channels, when the priests pour the water."
The High Priest looked up and addressed the crowd. "Although we may not all remember it, the Aenil surround us every moment of our lives. Just as water can be found everywhere that humans reside, so too are the Aenil drawn to us, permeating our plane with their influence. Like water, the Aenil are necessary for our survival, for it is they who provide our spiritual nourishment." He turned to gesture towards the amphoras held by his assistant priests, who were by now standing by the twin wooden half pipes. "The water within these two containers was drawn from the sacred spring in Sasat; the source of the river Remtonas and the second most holy site in the eyes of the Aenil. Just as we are tossed about on the waters of life, and go through much spiritual turmoil, these two ships represent the journeys that Edara and Jenred have taken up to this point."
He gave the signal to Ronon and Deganis, who immediately began to pour the water down the channels.
"The next, most holy, part of the ceremony must take place within the Temple of the Aenil. If you will join me there, we shall finally wed the King and Queen!" Turning to Edara and Jenred, he said, "After you, your highnesses." Edara might not be officially be known as a 'highness' yet, but it hardly seemed to matter now. Dren dismounted the stage with the couple and began to walk towards the temple, striding along beside the holy waters of Sasat as they flowed down the half pipes. He was accompanied by the children who had sung and danced earlier, and joined them in singing a well known hym. The High Priest had a rough voice, but he sang with the conviction of a true believer.
Sacred is the Spring of Sasat To the Holy A-e-nil So-urce of the river that Allows us to drink our fill
Chorus: Aenil grant us Wisdom! Stoicism too! Let us each Honour our Kingdom Every day through and through
Sacred is the Holy City Known to us as Idapur There we travel to seek sanct'ry From the bitter strife of war
Chorus
Sacred are our Holy Churches Where we praise the higher plane Our thirst for sp'rts the priesthood quenches The Aenil's nature they explain
Chorus
Dren Kanurell High Priest of MAE
Jocasta couldn't help herself. She started to cry. They were so beautiful together! And the way that they said 'I do' Ah! It was so assured! She hoped, if she ever fell in love, that it could be half as full as theirs.
Lady Jocasta Hart (Dame of Saex)
Adine took Thalathafn's arm as they walked to the carriage. "Thank you for the holly, it's lovely." She stepped into the carriage, gathering her olive green dress to the side. A silver belt hung around her waist with a small dagger attached at her hip. "So tell me, have you worked out any more about your family? Even if it's just crazy theories, I'd love to hear them."
Adine Evadne (Dame of Remton)
As the carriage rocked its way to the ceremony, Thalathafn recounted the theories he had. He hadn't time to come up with anything new but he didn't know which ones he had already shared with her. So he simple spouted them all: there was the one here his mother was killed by monsters, and the locket stolen from her; or perhaps it was a murder, or assassin; the other theory was that perhaps the women was not his mother at all, and the girl was really gifted the locket. There were just too many possibilities.
The carriage arrived at the MAE temple in time to see the children performing on stage. Thalathafn lead Adine through the crowds as they crossed the lawn to a spot closer to the stage. A man, who appeared to be minor nobility approached the pair, he leaned in and whispered something to the High Marshal. Thalathafn nodded, "Make sure the rest of the wedding goes smoothly." Thalathafn rubbed his brow before turning to Adine, "Sometimes I wish I could step away from my duties instead of having them always hinged at the back of my mind. So are you warm enough?" Despite the wedding was in the middle of winter the gathered crowd and fires emitted a fair amount of heat to keep everyone in their vivid outfits comfortable.
The cool sun hung high over head in the cloudless sky. At the signal of noon, the ceremony begun with a speech from the High Priest. The King and Queen expressed their commitment before sailing their model ships down the makeshift channel. The gathered were marshaled into the temple following the High Priest, King, Queen and their entourage.
Sir Thalathafn Urominiel High Marshal of Arcaea
Baz: Gah! Get away from me!
Aerywyn's captain looks a little surprised to see such resistance, but continues to try to move Baz. Baz waves his hand at him to dismiss him away, foregetting that the knife is still in his hand, and there's a moment of commotion from nearby when some people notice wet blood on the blade.
Aerywyn's captain instinctively responds by stepping back and drawing his sword, keeping himself well clear of the blade, but realises that fighting will not be necessary. Baz, not wanting to risk himself in a fight, hurls some abusive language in his direction instead, re-conceals the dagger, and turns to walk away, ignoring the trouble he's caused and the shouts from a couple of worried people to his left.
Sir Baz Grindle (Knight of Rrerat)
As the congregation of nobles was ushered inside, the two ships continued to slip along grooves cut in the walls of the temple. They moved with a stately grace, skating along, spinning ocassionally, but moving inexorably around the edge of the temple. When at last all of the guests had been ushered inside, the great doors of the temple were pushed shut. Now all that illuminated the dark space was a circle of candles that surrounded the High Priest, King Jenred and Duchess Edara. As the hymn finished, the last echoes drifting around the temple, an unseen choir took up a new song; it was close to a chant, much lower and more resonant. It finished quickly, and as the two boats came rushing down their channels into a lifted bowl of water the High Priest began to speak once more.
"Throughout our lives we are assailed by troubles. Not all of the Aenil are good, remember, and we must be wary of their temptations. Only by remaining pure in our intentions and by placing our faith in the good Aenil to protect us can we survive on our spiritual journey."
The three priests stepped forwards to drop covers over the candles. Only a dim glow could now be seen.
"Often this is difficult, and darkness clouds our thoughts so that we cannot see the light. We are tossed," the ships, which were bobbing up and down in the water, could just be heard, "on the stormy seas of existence. It is the Aenil who protect us in these situations, and they can give us solace." He beckoned to a group of six nobles, who had been asked to stand at the front. "Edara and Jenred, throughout your lives the Aenil have watched over you. In their wisdom, they have guided you on on the path to greatness."
One by one the chosen representatives of the Aenil stepped forwards, each picking up a shaded candles. Magistrate Madelena was the first to speak, and. "Duchess Edara, the Aenil have watched over you, guiding you on the path to Wisdom."
She lifted the shade off her candle. "From the moment we first met you have instilled in me an infinite sense of wisdom. I could name specific instances, for there are many, but I prefer instead to show the world how this gift you have from the Aenil covers a multitude of situations. You know when to speak and when to remain silent. You know when to be stern and when to lightly tease others from solemnity into mirth. You quickly read a person’s countenance and fully understand the essence of another. You know when to wait and when to act quickly. You know when to say yes and when to say no. Indeed M’Lady, you are the source of true feminine wisdom in this land and I am blessed to know you for it."
Chancellor Aerywyn straightened to give his account of Jenred's Wisdom, uncovering his candle. "King Jenred, the Aenil have watched over you, guiding you on the path to wisdom."
When the official part was done he stood up tall and straight as a spear, an air of mischief to his expression contrasting with the sedate green coat and graceful, well cut attire he wore. His dark brown hair, normally long , was cut short and his goatee was trimmed for the occasion, presenting an astoundingly different; charismatic and man than normal as he poetically addressed the crowd.
He had always loved to add a bit of flavour to things.
“… and then the fires had burnt their fury across the land, leaving nought but ashes and lost hope in their wake. We were reborn in those fires, although many amongst our people were but children when blood and glory reigned.”
At this point the speaker pauses, putting a hand to his mouth whilst his mind lingers on the memories of the past. Momentarily his vision changes from the inward to see the crowd seated in the hall, a soft transition visible to those attentive in his blue eyes. He smiles warmly at the couple, and turns back to the congregation.
“Of all those who embraced the wilderness and made it their own, we are here to laud two of ours; our brightest, our favoured. For Jenred, I have but two things to say of his wisdom gifted by the Aenil; that of his acumen in managing the affairs of Arcaea through fear and hunger, and desperate times, and of his choice in such a good woman, gifted with love and laughter unquenchable by even the coldest winter night. To the fair lady as well, she has chosen someone capable of both affection and of fiercely protecting all he loves.”
He stops, then chest rising with pride and honour walks over to the couple. First Aerywyn takes Jenred’s hand in his, a firm clasp, and then to Edara he takes her hand and bows over it, his lips brushing the skin in a gesture of respect and courtesy.
“May the gods bless this union”, he said plainly, finishing his part. “And may it survive unscathed all that would do it harm”.
Duchess Marle of Remton was the next to speak, uncovering her candle as she did so. "Duchess Edara, the Aenil have watched over you, guiding you on the path to Stoicism."
"She is a firey and passionate young woman; seemingly the opposite of stoicism. But true stoicism is not the pursuit of emotional emptiness, but remaining calm and rational in even the most dire situations.
"It's not easy to remain calm while facing overwhelming odds with nothing but a stick of metal and a block of wood by your side, but time and time again Duchess Edara has shown both clearness of mind and thought through the toughest times."
The King's brother, Sir Arlian Bedwyr, stepped forwards. "King Jenred, the Aenil have watched over you, guiding you on the path to wisdom."
"Lord Jenred is often known for his hot temper and fierce words. But despite these fiery indicators, his stoicism in the face of adversity cannot be denied. When faced with a crisis, such as the attack on the Inn, or the kidnapping of Lady Harmony, his instant response is to restore order, plan, and execute an effective response. Only after the crisis has been resolved does he give in to his emotions. Such stoicism is to be much admired in a man."
Lady Harmony Kindon, the bride's cousin, had a piece to say. "Duchess Edara, the Aenil have watched over you, guiding you on the path to Honour."
"One might look upon our little Duchess and think that she had only the honour granted by the accident of birth and position. And those who thought that...would miss the finer meanings of honour: nobility of soul, magnanimity, and a scorn of meanness.* No one who has spent more than a moment in my cousin’s company could fail to see her shining, generous spirit. When presented with an opportunity to give or to care or to be accepting...she never hesitates, never weighs her options. For Edara, there is only every one option...to love. And this is what she gives to Jenred...and what she gives to us all.
Serious as ever, Baron Goffrey was the next to speak. "King Jenred, the Aenil have watched over you, guiding you on the path to Honour."
"At the end of the day, a man is only as good as two things, his word, and his ability to keep his word. With regards to King Jenred Bedwyr, there is maybe one other person whom I trust more, and that man happens to have the advantage of being related to me.
"During the height of Arcaea’s war with seemingly the entirety of the north Jenred was the man who gave hope back to our realm. He was the one who united a country, shattered by war and famine, and rebuilt to what it is today.
"From the best of times to the worst of times, Jenred and Edara have been together through it all, and never once did either of them cease in their purist of a happy life together. Today, is the culmination of all their hard work, and I for one couldn’t be happier."
Dren nodded to the six who had spoken and raised their candle covers, saying, "My thanks to you all.
"We clearly see that Edara and Jenred possess all of the virtues held to be the most important by the Aenil, in great quantity. They are ready to be joined in marriage."
He turned to pluck the masts from each of the ships, and produced from under the great stone bowl of water a slightly larger ship than either of the others. Into its two slots he fitted the two masts. "Like the ships, you have led your lives in virtual solitude upon the stormy seas, until now. You have each been helped by your own Aenil; now it is time for them to join together in recognition of your wedding. If you will all follow me one last time, King Jenred and Queen Edara will exchange their vows out in the open air!"
The doors were flung open, and Dren proceeded outside carrying the single Wedding ship, singing another hymn.
Dren Kandurell High Priest of MAE
The atmosphere thrilled Aerywyn, the joy and good humour infectious now that they were leaving the solemnity of the temple. He looked to the heavens above, for out here by the grass and trees was the most fitting place for the final part of the ceremony, where the gods and the Aenil could witness it with the greatest clarity.
He could not help but smile as he walked, and the fair woman beside him in the procession following Dren and the other priests seemed to be affected as well, although she looked almost a bit envious of the couple. Aerywyn offered her his arm, leaning close to be heard over the hymns.
"You look beautiful as always, Lady Madelena, but I have a feeling there is a little more to your thoughts than just the shades upon Edara's dress
Aerywyn Haerthorne Imperial Chancellor of Arcaea
Jenred had stood, still and silent, breathing deeply as their closest friends had honoured them before the assembled crowds. And when they were finished, and the procession made its way out under the sky again...And he saw Edara, sunlight glinting off her beautiful face...Jewels and eyes glistening...His carefully rehearsed speech, practiced a dozen times in front of Arlian, flew away. In its place, a burning flame of truth scorched through his mind, filling him with words.
"My Edara...Many protestations of love have been made over the years. Some swear by the Sun, which rises and falls, inconstant. Some by the Moon, waxing and waning like their affections. Some by the stars themselves, twinkling and unknowable, fey, beyond our ken. Some would swear by their gods, which is sophistry, for the Aenil bind us to our words regardless of whether we invoke them or not. I...Shall swear by blood."
Jenred drew his belt knife, the watermark blade rippling in the clear light, and sliced the palm of his left hand in one smooth stroke, letting the ruby liquid flow freely.
"For from this day forward, we are as one. And when our children are born, our blood will mingle in them and our children's children. We will begin a new line that shall flourish. I shall bring them a world bright and free, filled with honour and love. And in this world, our line cannot die. And so long as this blood flows through the veins of man or woman...Know that you shall be loved. This I swear."
Jenred looked across at Edara with a smile filled with calm confidence. Yes...That was what he needed to say. He silently blessed again the Aenil who brought them together, and who had seemingly aided him again. He was indeed truly blessed.
Sir Jenred Bedwyr King of Arcaea
Madelena was somewhat awoken from her daydream by Aerywyn's words. It was funny how she could be in the middle of a crowd and yet still have a whole separate and quiet world going on inside of her head.
"Not at all Sir Aerywyn. Queen Edara's dress is the most beautiful I have ever seen. If I were a crying sort I would have shed a tear by now it is so moving."
Madelena was determined not to let on to Aerywyn that she had been caught thinking of Tenal. She was truly happy that her friend's special day had gone so well. But she would also be relieved when the festivities could begin and she could slip away and find her love. Deciding to change the subject she turned to her escort and said:
"Have you met my sister Cypreana Sir Aerywyn?"
Not even Madelena missed him blush.
Lady Madelena Rossini Imperial Magistrate of Arcaea, Countess of Orbeh
Edara felt as though her heart had stopped beating. Whatever she had been expecting him to say—and she had been expecting something rather wonderful—the power of this oath…
She stared at him, tears dimming her vision and spilling down her cheeks. Her carefully learned words—that Harmony had helped her to write and insisted that she memorize—were suddenly absent from her mind. Edara looked at her cousin in panic. Harmony smiled and stepped forward to press a piece of paper into her hand…she had had doubts about her cousin’s ability to…remember the words.
Edara looked gratefully at the paper, wiping the tears so that she could read what they had written which seemed so…inadequate after Jenred’s… She began…voice trembling:
“My lovely Jenred,
“I came to Arcaea with nothing, and you were my first friend. I was but an egg. Now, I have a powerful position, a castle, a title, all of which you helped me achieve…you showed me I had wings, and taught me to fly. But, even if I had none of those, I would not be the poorer. What is power when it is your love that makes me strong? What is a castle when you are my home? What is a fancy title when the name I most crave is your wife?
“You are the water that quenches my thirst; the bread that sustains me; the fire that warms me; you are the very air that I breathe; and the salt that gives my life its savour. You are everything to me.
“This then is my vow: that I will love you until the end of time…that I will stand beside you and stand for you...fight beside you and fight for you...everything that I am and everything that I ever will be…will be for you.
“And you will never fly alone.”
Edara looked at him…it wasn’t enough. It was never enough…
She pulled the ring from her finger that was her gift for him today and stepped forward to slide it onto his left hand with his hawk’s-head ring. His bloody palm...she didn’t hesitate…there was only one thing more that she could do…Edara reached for his knife…and cut her own left hand in imitation of him and then clasped his hand…letting their blood mingle and run together.
“Forever.”
Lady Edara Kindon Duchess of Nocaneb
Cypreana was in two minds whether to stay in the tent with the puppy or to go to see the wedding ceremony. She wasn't sure she would see much anyway with there being so many crowds, but there was a special section of seating for nobles and so she slipped in there with the puppy on her lap.
Duchess Edara looked magnificent and there was a sharp intake of breath when she first appeared as everyone around her took in her beauty. Cypreana also saw Madelena looking the same as ever. It was hard for Cypreana to say her sister was beautiful when they all looked the same, but she did acknowledge that Maddy had fixed her hair nicely and had picked a good color for her dress.
She was just about to stand up and try to catch Madelena's attention when she saw Sir Aerywyn and Baron Goffrey. She sat firmly in her seat as the puppy squirmed around on her lap. She could feel her cheeks growing flushed which made her even more embarrassed.
Then she saw Tenal. He was a way off from her sitting down and speaking to a noble from Sartania. She didn't trust him. He had hurt her sister twice already. She would keep an eye on him. Still, Madelena had passed a law which made it impossible for her to challenge him to a duel so she would just have to bide her time.
She looked back again at the wedding party and could swear she caught Sir Aerywyn's eye. She smiled nervously and then looked away in embarrassment. This would not do. She didn't know what to do. She resolved that she would speak to her sister at the earliest available opportunity and see what advice she could give. She would also try and come up with some names for the blasted puppy.
Lady Cypreana Rossini (Dame of Sasat)
Jesters had scattered before Dren, as he bounded up to the platform. They had been entertaining the peasants for the duration of the mysterious indoor ceremonies; clearly rumours would be flying around as to what arcane rites the nobles had been performing behind the closed temple doors. Dren was thoroughly moved by the vows that Edara and Jenred exchanged, sensing the heartfelt emotions passing between them. He was somewhat put out by the blood mixing ritual, which reminded him of a pagan ritual he had once witnessed, but like any good preacher he improvised.
"As the water in your blood mixes, so too do the Aenil watching over you. They have observed your joining in marriage. In the sight of Aenil and men you have exchanged your vows; I now pronounce you husband and wife, King and Queen of Arcaea!"
Dren bowed low, ending by falling to one knee. He hoped that the congregation behind him did likewise. After several moments he rose to his feet and was handed the double masted ship.
"You have been through life in a solitary fashion,but are now joined in holy matrimony! The Aenil that have watched you through your life will now care for both of you, and guide you on the path to Wisdom, Stoicism and Honour. They are all immensely proud, I am sure, and bless your wedding unreservedly. Long live the both of you to cherish each other. Long live the King and Queen!"
With these last words, Dren turned to allow the twin masted wedding ship to slip down one of the channels towards the temple, aided by holy water poured by Deganis. An irrepressible smile came to his lips, as he realised that the long awaited wedding was finally over. Arcaea had a Queen again, and the two finest people on the continent were at last happily married.
Euran Yetisbane Kandurell Baron of Lantzas
As Dren rose, Jenred swept Edara up in his arms (their hands having been bandaged while the ceremony ended) and kissed her long and hard before turning to the crowd, amidst the roaring of the crowd, and raised their hands high.
"And now...Let the party truly begin!"
At this, the waiting musicians began playing a fast dance tune, and the tumblers danced (on hands as often as feet) through the crowd. The kegs were opened once more, and roast meats brought out from the kitchens of Nocaneb (well-prepared for such crowds from experience with the armies that often occupied it). Jenred grinned, and swept Edara off her feet, leaping down to the dance area sectioned off for the nobles, and began a complicated line dance, inviting the rest of the crowd to join. Arlian and Harmony cheered and charged after (although Arlian's dancing skills left much to be desired, Harmony was adept enough to compensate).
And...Once the night was over...The Tournament proper would take place, and Jenred would spend the rest of the morning cheering the contestants (Edara especially, of course!) and luxuriating in being finally married.
It was good to be the King!
Sir Jenred Bedwyr King of Arcaea
“Yes… I have had that pleasure.”
It was difficult to regain his composure before anything was revealed, yet even as he turned his head away to look away into the crow he knew it was too late. Whether Madelena’s question was innocent or not, he had given away a sign. As his eyes skimmed over the tops of nobles heads, he caught his breath in surprise as he saw Cypreana in the crowd.
Didn’t she say she was waiting in the tent?
Aerywyn touched the letter in his coat pocket, thinking of the words she wrote and the kiss he stole. He smiled back at her and the puppy in her arms, but then as suddenly as it she had appeared the crowd rose up. Amidst the celebrating nobles and shocked by the abrupt beginning of the cheering and the music, he lost sight of her.
Knowing how difficult it would be to find her now, Aerywyn sighed. He looked to see if Madelena was still watching him, but already he could tell she was more interested in something like enjoying the celebration. Smiling, he squeezed her arm gently to get her attention. He would go looking for Cypreana soon, but that didn't mean he couldn't enjoy and be courteous in the company of her grace the Magistrate.
“Come then, let us find your love and enjoy the festivities, before we all get knocked about on the ‘morrow”.
And he wasn’t going to drink so much this time.
Aerywyn Haerthorne Imperial Chancellor of Arcaea
Dougal cried when his little one said her vows and pledged her life to Jenred…not that he let anyone see. When he had first come to Arcaea, he had had doubts as to whether this…or any man…would be good enough for the neice that he had raised as his own. Then he had gotten to know Jenred…seen how deep and abiding his love for Edara was…and known that his little girl was in good hands…
Now, they were married at last, and his girl was a Queen. Of all the things he had thought might happen when Edara came willy-nilly to Arcaea…that was not one of them. He had feared for her life, her health, her happiness…he had never imagined that she would become a Duchess…find love…marry a King.
He watched the happy dancing. Members of the wedding party and many of the attending nobles joined the newlyweds on the floor. Dougal’s bum leg kept him from dancing, but he clapped and cheered happily from the side. When Jenred and Edara took a break to catch their breath, he approached them and caught up Edara in his arms.
“Congratulations, little one! You’ve never looked more beautiful…or happier.”
Dougal bowed to Jenred, “Your Majesty,” he smiled at the King, “I commend her to your care. I know that you meant your vows…and that you will keep them; and, I’m proud and happy to have you as part of my family.”
He drew the couple away from the crowd for a moment…
“Now…I have a gift for you two. You’ll have to come to collect it after the wedding…from my stables,” Dougal grinned at them, “My stock arrived from back home…and I’ve picked out the best pair for the two of you. Better than anything you’ve seen around here…Harmony and I are going to…do rather well for ourselves, I think, once people get a look at our horses.”
He continued to grin happily at them. Edara had always been a daughter to him…and now…he had a son.
Lady Edara Kindon Duchess of Nocaneb
Goffrey stood off to the side of the reception, watching with mild interest as the nobles milled about, ethier engaging eachother in conversation or, dancing with one another to the music of the minstrels.
It was quite a sight to behold to the young hero, who had never before bore witness to gathering quite like this. His trained about the crowds, ignoring the faces he did not recognize, and focusing in on those he did.
There was Jenred, shaming the stars with his smile as he danced with his wife, probably just content to able to call her that, especially after all the trouble he had gone through in making the actual tournament take place.
There was Aerywyn, seemingly discussing things with, ethier Madelena or Cypreana, Goffrey couldn't tell from this distance and the thickness of the crowds.
There was Harmony, trying her best to out smile Jenred, but ultimately failing as she danced with...by all the Aenil...was that Arlian.
At that point, Goffrey couldn't help himself, a smile split his face, an ironic laugh came froth from seemingly no where. Goffrey didn't know why he was laughing, by rights he should be feeling horrible at least on some level, yet all he could do was smile and chuckle as he watched the two circle the dance floor, virtually no space between them. After awhile of thought, he decided that it was the new light in Harmony's eyes that did it to him, the joy and bliss reflected there, was something Goffrey had never before seen from her.
The laughter died away as that realization, dawned on him, and although the smile didn't leave his lips, a heavy weight fell on his heart. The knowledge that another had succeeded in making her happy where Goffrey had failed, utterly at that, left a scar on his heart that Goffrey knew would never fully heal.
It was then that Goffrey knew that this was his fate, watching as everyone around him fell in love, sharing in their joys but never having any of his own, and so it would go until his uneventful and inevitable death.
Goffrey sighed, and finally understood why Richter liked to drink so much, as he moved his armored form over to an abandoned corner of reception area, virtually out of sight of the other nobles. He full into the chair, setting his helmet on the table as he produced a small flask from his hip, a gift from his brother.
Craning his head, he picked out Jenred in the crowd, still dancing with his wife, secure in his knowledge that he would never be without her again. Resigned to his fate, Goffrey brought his flask up in a salute of sorts to his friend, happy at least that some people could be happy, before knocking the little bottle back hard and settling more firmly into his seat.
Goffrey Massey Baron of Sasat
Cypreana was growing tired of carting the puppy around and it was obvious he needed food so she sent him with her steward back to Madelena's tent. She then started to look around for Aerywyn. As she scanned the crowd for him her eyes came upon Sir Goffrey sitting off by himself in a corner and she grew perplexed and concerned. She wandered over to him.
"Baron Goffrey" she curtsied. "What on earth are you doing off here by yourself? Sure you should be dancing!"
Lady Cypreana Rossini (Dame of Sasat)
The pomp and ceremony that his cousin the High Priest so loved was anathema to Euran. He had to restrain himself from laughter during the self important speeches, and had felt thoroughly uncomfortable in the pious atmosphere of the temple. All those fine flowery words about Wisdom, Stoicism and Honour; the baron could see that wisdom was worth having, and honour when the time called for it, but stoicism?
Dren had always been one for too much reading. It had been skaldic verse in Norland, and it was philosophical texts here. Euran would happily do without stoicism, if it allowed him to summon the rage necessary to survive a battle. He was glad that neither Edara nor Jenred had too much of it; but he had to admit that it had been funny to watch Marle and Arlian struggling to portray the happy couple in that light.
Nevertheless, a strange emotion was expressed by Euran's eyes as he watched the happy couple marry. Edara looked beautiful, and Jenred was as regal as ever. They had found success and happiness with each other. It was a marriage made by Adghar himself... and against all of Euran's previous experience, it looked like it just might work. He blinked, and tried to overcome the surge of atmosphere generated by the wedding crowd. Edara had an unrealistic opinion of Jenred, and made him out to be some kind of god; she would be disappointed eventually. Jenred would surely be too protective of Edara, and she was naive in many ways; either she would feel stifled or Jenred would become tired of her. The Baron felt normality returning with his native pragmatism.
As the dancing started, Euran took the opportunity to slip away. He was an ungainly mover at best; at worst he would trip over his own feet and crush someone to death. The wedding was beginning to bring back... memories. Euran had suppressed them for too long to allow them to overcome him now. He shouldered his way blindly through the faceless crowd.
Euran Yetisbane Kandurell Baron of Lantzas
If Deganis looked like a lost child in the streets, it was because he was. All the people around him, conversing, laughing, and enjoying the last moments of the festivities. He had not seen Dren since the wedding ceremony, at least not since Dren thanked him for his participation in it. Now he just roamed around, smiled, nodded politely, and randomly shook the hands of Nobles, Knights, Lords, and perhaps even Kings.
It was many weeks back that his communication with Dren had began. He was contacted and informed that he would begin studying underneath the High Priest before being accepted as a Priest himself. Deganis, however, never imagined that such an event would be part of his training. It felt almost... sinful.
It felt especially worse for Deganis, knowing his nation and homeland was under attack. Word had been recieved from a runner that his brother Anatrok had been elected as the new Marshall of the Papanian army. Deganis now prayed each night for the saftey of the people and his brother. He knew the Aenil would insure that no undue harm would be done.
During the day, the music seemed to wash away all fears. To Deganis, the music was as if the Aenil themselves were singing such wonderful tones. This wedding was truely a splendid event for all of the Far East. There was no doubt in Deganis' mind that the Aenil were not smiling on these days.
However, it did seem to drain Deganis. Afterall, running around and doing these tasks that were required of him was indeed a work out. Deganis plopped down on some marble steps and ran his left hand roughly through his short dark hair as he released a sigh of relaxation...
Deganis Skoorbosla (Noble)
As Aerywyn talked with Madelena about all kinds of small and trivial matters, he began to feel more and more stifled by the mass of people. His eyes scanned over the tops of peoples heads, but he couldn’t catch sight of Cypreana again. When they found Tenal at last, he quickly begged their leave and, with an apologetic smile and short bow, left their company with a cup of wine in his hand. From there his feet carried him away from the crowds, through the maze of bodies and feet and towards the part of the fortress where his tent was pitched.
Time and time again he would fall into his mind, and even now he retreated into it. It was a happy retreat, for amidst the chaos and furious business of the tourney atmosphere one needed a place to rest. By the time he had reached his tent the celebrations were far enough to be heard in the distance, and his cup was drained of its contents. Only a few revelers wandered about here.
Encouraged by the warmth in his heart and stomach, Aerywyn took the lyre from his tent and sat beneath a rowan tree, tuning it in the fading light. He grinned at the thought of an eligble bachelor like himself abandoning such a public event, risking even insulting the newly weds, all so he could play a bit of music. Yet he shook his head. Plucking the first notes, Aerywyn strummed a simple tune, singing whatever words came to mind in a voice both resonating with timbre and youthful at once… it was melancholic, but strangely happy as well…
I’ll find Cypreana soon enough…
Aerywyn Haerthorne Imperial Chancellor of Arcaea
Thalathafn caught up with Karith as they exited the temple. "Congratulations on the win, there is no shame in being bested by the best. I hope we are able to meet again in the sword arena." Thalathanfn laughed. He was quite obviously enjoying the festivities. Turning to Adine, "I hope the ceremony wasn't too boring for you, how about we join the royal couple for a dance?" Thalathafn smiled as he lead her amongst the dancing nobles. The pair pirouetted amongst the twirling nobility. Thalathafn waited til the King and Queen had left he dance area and the appropriate time to approach. Thalathafn was cut off by a messenger who handed him a sealed note. Thalathafn quickly read it and tossed it into the fire. Noticing the look on Adine's face, "Secrets of the Empire" Thalathafn laughed. "Now, come along I don't believe you have been properly introduced to the royal couple."
Thalathafn and Adine approached Jenred and Edara along with their entourage. "Congratulations again your majesties, the wedding and ceremony was well recieved. Let me introduce you to Lady Adine Evadne, our resident practitioner of dark arts. shes quite good, might I add." Thalathafn then proceed to remove his heavy tunic to the surprise of the group. He unbuttoned the jade studs that ran along the front of the wyvern scale jacket which was previously hidden. Holding up the Jacket of Strength up to the light, even in its current condition a hint of green gleamed off the darken scales. "My gift to King Jenred was already previously delivered. Now I offer you this Jacket of Strength, my Queen. It has seen countless battles on the continent and saved me more than once. I apologize for its current state, I haven't had time to deal with having it mended in the recent weeks." Thalathafn bowed as he offered the jacket.
Sir Thalathafn Urominiel High Marshal of Arcaea
Goffrey looked up from his drinking and musing, to find Cypreana standing over him, looking at him in a concerned matter. Goffrey smiled at her, as he ever so subtly studied her eyes, he had seen that look before, many times in fact during his childhood, it was strange to see it from someone other then Richter, but Goffrey would recognize concern for one's brother anywhere.
"I'm not really one for dance," he said, still smiling his resigned smile as he starred, "I have two left feet on the floor so to speak, and didn't I tell you to call me Goffrey."
He laughed to show that he was teasing, silently wishing it didn't sound quite so hallow, but resolved to get used to the feeling...again...
"Besides, It's awfully hard to move about in this metal monstrosity," he said after the laughter subsided, rapping his fist against his plate mail to show what he was indicating, "Now then, as your Baron, I hereby order you to stop worrying about me, and go enjoy yourself in at the party, I'll be fine."
'I'll be fine,' he repeated to himself in his head, trying to make himself believe his own words.
Goffrey Massey Baron of Sasat
