Angelcynn: The Myrcian Conflict - Act 4

[SB.]

The mention of Claire not being a normal individual made her pout slightly, even if there was some truth to it. She still felt very much out of sorts at times socially, especially when someone deliberately pushed her buttons. As for who she really liked however, she had to stop and think for a few moments. The comment about Owen was... interesting, and jogged her memory as well. "Didn't you say something like that this morning, when you found me?" Wasn't it something along those lines? A lot had happened since then.

"I can't really say that I'm interested in anyone else with us, though." Despite Nona's insistence to the contrary, she wasn't that well acquainted with the men of the party. She'd spoken with them, but that wasn't enough for her to fall head over heels in love or anything. Her life was far from a fairy tale, but she still felt a great deal calmer now. It was easy to relax around Cass, even if Claire was doing something a little abnormal for her.

"Erm... green sounds good?" She didn't sound too certain, but at the same time she didn't feel like a super frilly dress would suit her that well. Cass might feel differently about it, though. Her grasp on these things seemed much better than Claire's was, and the non-challant manner in which she spoke of their visit to jail assured the mage that everything truly was fine. "I'd rather just not be a wreck, but thanks, I guess." She smiled slightly, accompanied by a small shrug. 

She didn't comment the princess' last words - she'd done her best to avoid thinking about what was happening in their homeland. Claire's own territory was the furthest north, and the closest one to Deira. Whatever the status of the rest of the country was, she couldn't imagine that they were doing well.

[Nanami Touko]

"I'll tell you about that in a moment, dear. Look through here with me and choose something you think looks good. Frills, hems, a gold trim, whatever you think would look good draped over you. I'll pick some things out as well and we'll see about getting you to try them all on, hmm?" Cass was sure that Claire had a sense of something that suited her, she just wanted sure want. Something that cut off just at the knee though, Cass was certain that would work. Assuming she doesn't have any issues with her legs, but I don't think she's ever walked funny.

"Oh, boo, really? Not even me? You wound me Claire~ Though that is probably for the best, getting married in a few days time would make such a confession quite awkward, I feel." Cass paused to look her over for just a moment, seemingly thinking something to herself, before a small shake of her head turned her attention back to the clothes.

"No one enjoys being a wreck, dear. It'll take time for you. You've been away from us socialites for far too long to simply jump into the fray and survive. What IS the deal with Nona, though? Everyone seems so afraid of her... I can't imagine why." Cass huffed and pulled a particularly pretty pink dress off of the stand, draping it gently over her arm.

Edited May 14, 2017 by Nanami Touko

[SB.]

Claire wanted to know what the big deal was about, but she let it slide for now. Pick something I like? Um... She always struggled with this, and just ended up picking out something plain. That wasn't really far from what she wanted, but it couldn't hurt to try on other things. 

"I don't think anyone else is that interesting, do you? I'm not talking about the Angus kind of interesting, either." She chuckled. "And I wouldn't go after you if were getting married, even if I did like you." Her eyes drifted slowly along the display as she responded. No matter what kind of weirdness happened in her dreams, the reality of the situation was very different. "...I think I would be too shy either way, though." Probably. Claire had no idea what she was doing when it came to romance, and she really didn't like making a fool of herself.

"I know that." Claire responded, plucking a green dress from the display with likely far more force than necessary. "I didn't- oh, it's fine." There were no tears or anything, fortunately. She breathed a sigh of relief before continuing.

"I don't think I'll ever get used to Nona though. I've seen Barons Esclabor and Nelon both run away from her as if their lives depended on it. Baron Esclabor apparently leapt out of a window to escape her when they'd been drinking too, apparently. I still don't know what she did to them exactly, but they seem genuinely afraid of her." The eldest Valter sister was certainly an enigma, and Claire wasn't sure if she wanted to know the full extent of it.

Edited May 15, 2017 by SB.

[Jotari]

"Very well then" said Constance. "I best be going too. I gained access to this area using slightly less than honest means. Goodbye, Mr Alain."

Edited May 17, 2017 by Jotari

[Shin]

Amusement

Nona smiled as Cass removed Claire from her grasps, watching playfully as the duo escaped. Freya's response didn't seem to dissuade her, if anything it was just another thing to amuse her. "I was hoping for a ridiculous answer, Freya. Sometimes people have a whole other side to them that they hide from everyone else." she mused, heading into Sylvester's to browse the wares. "Maybe you've got something secret locked away behind your armour too?"

Tragic Reunion

An unusual sensation wrapped itself around Alain and Constance before they departed, a familiar threatening presence they knew too well. It was less that someone else were present with them, but more that they had joined someone else at another location. A shared vision entered their minds, the faint hints of Belial's own aura carrying towards them.

It was difficult to make out, but the silhouttes of two men walking along slowly came into focus. One was recognisable very quickly, the malicious energy that Malaphar gave off was difficult to mistake. However, the other man also seemed familiar, but he lacked the same clarity as Malaphar himself.

"Your explanation was sufficient, Lord Malaphar. To think it would have been so simple to achieve my goal. I only wish Prince Owen had accepted your offer." the stranger remarked, gently following Malaphar's pace as they strolled through the plains of his World. "An everlasting body, a domain to call your own. I cannot fathom that there would be any more that you could desire."

Malaphar laughed, shaking his head gently and raising a hand. "Now, now. One should never be satisfied with one's current position. There are always greater things to strive for." he elaborated, stepping in front of his companion. "I had hoped Owen would be able to share my greater goals, but he's as misguided as his father... despite being easier to coerce. In time I shall let you know my final goal. For now, enjoy the immortality that you had so long craved... my good friend, Emmet..."

The vision came quickly to a halt, snapping Constance and Alain back into the realms of reality. Belial's essence lingered momentarily before fading away, leaving the two with what they had seen.

Afternoon of 17th April 812

There hadn't been much left of the morning, the antics that had occurred had very much consumed most of it. The sun had reached its peak and was now beginning its descent. Other than an increase in the number of guards patrolling the streets, there was not any commotion to be had. With talks of Cass and Adele's arrest spreading through the town, rumours of another wanted criminal roaming Tytila had seeped into the gossip.

Everyone is free to post!

[Nanami Touko]

With one smug supervised shopping trip over with, that left Cass to see about checking on her rings... And to see if Aurus was still going to be as kind as he'd been the previous days. Rumors had spread now, though the townspeople seemed to be more abuzz with who this escapee was. Cass didn't have a clue, but she was sure that the public would still be on edge about her, should she approach them. Best to leave any gawkers be and make sure that she was only out here to get what she needed. The captain was still a useful tool for dissuading any of the more aggressive dissenters, as much as Cass would've preferred to not need intimidation to get this done.

The other body following along with her was one that she hadn't quite expected. Adele had wished to retire from all of this stress, leaving Cass walking along the town with her assigned Captain, and... With Serge. She paused to give him a glance, not sighing, but not so much just breathing. Perhaps a small huff. "I realize you're working for her, but did you not have anything better to do? Not that I don't appreciate it, I... Am simply surprised to have such an... Entourage. Still, I'm sure you must have questions, as everyone else will. Out with them, as I we walk. Aurum's shouldn't be too far of a stroll..."

What had her worried was not her squad, but what awaited them. "I can only hope that I do not have to pay more for my disposition. Foolishness," she muttered, grumbling a bit.

[Dandragon]

"It's not like I just came along for no reason, Princess. Lady Adele ordered me to guard you for a bit, so here I am." Though, once again, Serge wondered if he was really needed, as he glanced over at the large, armored man accompanying them, and felt insi...insig...ins...small. "I'm still under contract from her, so I gotta follow her command. Simple as that. ...'Course, once Adele gets married, guess I gotta also follow whoever the spouse is, too. At least, I think that's how it works." Honestly, he knew little about weddings and what to do in them. There wasn't anything like that in the dregs he lived in. That, and nobody he knew back than had gotten a chance to be married, or already were together. He certainly had a lot of learning experiences on this journey, that was for sure.

"So...I heard you were the one organizing all this? Then you'd know who Adele is getting married to, right? No one's really told me who, and I can't figure out why."

[Nanami Touko]

"I know she did, but still..." It didn't exactly bother-- Well, no, it did, but it wasn't Serge. It was just the whole situation of needing an escort, but that had been her fault, so it wasn't something she could stress about anymore. Trying to shake it off and enjoy the sights of Raewald's streets, she almost laughed at Serge, managing to contain it to a chuckle.

"Then, I'll be gaining command of an entire mercenary company, will I? What fun. How good are you at running errands, Serge?" This was fun, but she couldn't keep everyone in the dark for simple amusement. "I'm organizing it because she's getting married to me. Surprise. It's so shocking, I know," she scoffed, rolling her eyes at the road ahead of her. "If you've any issue with that, it would probably be best to work out your contract sooner than later. I can't wait to have a whole new set of lackeys~"

[Xinnidy]

Owen let Cass off with a sigh to do her things, but things weren't to be so bad with Sidney by his side. That is, until the Captain graced him with unfortunate news. Sidney was still considered a criminal in Tytila, that was highly alarming for the prince. This can't be good, if she's recognizable... by Engel, what does the Queen think of this? A silent gulp, the Queen was amiable enough to them, but he couldn't for the life of him gauge her opinion on this. Hopefully, she finds it pardonable...

All that mattered now was that Captain Thwomp was turning a blind eye, leaving them with this piece of knowledge. "You are far too kind, Sir Thwomp." Owen admitted, impressed by the man. "Thank you very much. I will see what I can do... but it is as you say. While in Raewald, I am but a guest. I can only hope the Queen will understand." But what would the people think of Wyke now, with two women marrying each other and a fugitive in the prince's entourage? I shouldn't worry, the Queen rules them with a firm grasp...

"Right... well, while we are here" Owen took Sidney's hand, with reason to be more concerned about her well-being. "Let's check out the clothes, alright? We can't show to my sister's wedding in poor form... I haven't worn a suit in months, honestly. Surely you can help me pick one out, Sidney?"

---

Thankfully, no more inconveniences were had in their trip, as far as the public went. High noon came, a decent meal was had, a quick look at the war chest (my, how... little they had brought), and Owen left for the city once more, a lingering concern about Sidney on the back of his mind as a few rumours were overheard. It seemed that his presence was instigating it around the people... how unnerving. I wonder... they certainly must have doubts about my character now, have there been lies spread about me? I certainly hope not. What was he to do, a prince without authority over them? Hmm...

Nonetheless, Owen had reached a familiar store, the Fletcher, ever mindful of his past day's appointment. After a warning knock, he saw himself in casually.

Owen visits the Fletcher, round 2.

[riariadne]

"Months? You're certainly very forgetful, Owen, seeing as it was only a few weeks ago that you had worn one back for our first dance," Sidney inquired. "Well, maybe it's the stress of the whole situation here, I suppose I don't blame you. Anyway, there was a particular red color I had in mind for me, but for you, I think we should find a nice white suit. It'll stand out and be very dignified, I think, so let's see..."

...

After settling their shopping and departing the store, Sidney parted ways with Owen until the evening- and yet, departing the store didn't leave her feeling positive. There were enough mutters about a renegade in the city to bring dread to her mind, no doubt to her because of Ferdinand. The long arm of the law at work, it seems... Her heart raced faster as she thought of ways to avoid more trouble than wanted before everything was cleared up. People use ashes to color their hair sometimes, don't they? And sometimes white powder to lighten their skin, but I don't know how well that will work being fairly dark, and I don't think you can do anything about eyes. I can dress differently, and, well... am I overthinking this? She ran her fingers through her hair, taking a few moments to think before heading off to her home. This time she was sure to use the back again to avoid as many people as she could. "Mother, father? Are either of you here?"

[Dandragon]

Serge raised an eyebrow at the princess, though he wasn't nearly as bothered as someone would have expected someone to be. In fact, he wasn't bothered at all by the premise that is contractor was marrying another woman, at all. "...Guess that explains a few things." He said, still walking alongside the other two. "Pretty sure I had to take orders from you anyway, since you're the princess and all. So this doesn't really change a whole lot." He then took a quick glance back at Cassandra, squinting slightly as he did. "I'd appreciate it you didn't call them lackeys, though. They're people, too, you know. Just like you and me."

[Nanami Touko]

"Doesn't it just? And perhaps, but not as a mercenary, just as a citizen. If I truly do gain hold of your mercenary company by wedding Adele, though I doubt it, it would mean giving you less leeway to reject any orders... And come now, don't be so sensitive. After what you did to Arteria in the arena, I'd think calling people what they are wouldn't bother you so much. I never knew you had such a harsh side to you, Serge." Cass was laying it on a tad thick, mostly due to being chastised over calling mercenaries just what they were: lackeys. Does he just not know what the word means? That might be it. Perhaps he needs someone to educate his vernacular some day, lackeys isn't exactly insulting...

"And how are you, captain? All of this walking around isn't tiring... No, you must be used to wearing that armor, I'm sure this much isn't even close to a bother for you. Then, how are you feeling, would be a better question. I've never had an escort that could keep up with me, so I'm a bit worried with all this talk. Anything you wish to weigh in on?"

[Dandragon]

The mention of Arteria made him scowl. "That woman is different. She murders people for the fun of it. And I wasn't going to let her get away with killing..." His voice trailed off, as he looked back towards the direction of the arena, a feeling of deep hatred for whoever was running it slowly building inside of him. Non-lethal, my ass. They didn't do a damn thing when that bitch killed either Abdul or Octon. Nobody did. Nobody but me... If he had any sort of opinion on the Nobility of Titila, it was a much worse opinion ever since the Coliseum. Whenever he thought about the men and women in fancy dresses that cheered in those stands for Arteria, he thought about nothing but disgust for all of them.

"...Besides, the Hearthfire Crew aren't lackeys. They don't serve me, like a butler would. We're like a family. We help each other, and we all matter to each other." Of course, he wasn't sure if Cassandra was even paying attention at this point, because Serge finally noticed that she was talking to Thwomp. And Thwomp was an odd one. When he first saw him, it had taken him a moment to realize that was not the same knight that he had met in the Heroes' Guild, Marrok. Though, he speech patterns, particularly him using his name every time he talked about himself. And, in a way, it made him glad for the, admittedly small, education his parents were able to give him.

Edited May 16, 2017 by Dandragon

[SB.]

Girl Talk THE SEQUEL

Cass smirked. "Too shy, is it? I'd believe that. Really, until Magon, I'd almost forgotten you existed. Perhaps that's rude of me, but you don't stand out unless someone takes the time to really look at you. I'll just have to keep looking~ Now then, shall we stuff you into one of these? You've chosen something, yes?" With a bit too much force, perhaps, but she had chosen something to wear. Cass eagerly pushed her away from the stacks with clothes in hand, shoving her at the drape covering one of the changing rooms.

"What, jumped out a window? That would be ridiculous. Do you truly believe that? I think Esclabor wouldn't be cut out for fighting if he was walking with such wounds... I'm assuming you'd suffer wounds jumping out a window. Unless it was a low window... Anyway! In you go, and if you have any issues putting that on, let me know and I'll come in and get it fixed on you. Go on, go on..."

---

It was a little disheartening to hear 'I'd almost forgotten you existed', but at the same time Claire could hardly blame the princess. She'd kept to herself for the most part, aside from the less-than-thrilling company of Emmet. That was the past though, and before she knew it Claire was being shoved into the changing stall. 

She held the dress in front of her to examine it once again, while responding to Cass. "It sounds strange, but with how much he seems to fear her I almost believe it." The garment she'd chosen wasn't especially extravagant or anything, but it modest and straightforward, and with what Nona had been saying earlier she didn't want anyone getting the wrong idea.

She quickly changed, watching a frown curl onto her face in the mirror as she scrutinised her appearance. I guess it's okay? She didn't feel as though there was anything wrong with it, but at the same time the mage didn't feel strongly about it the other way either. Sighing, she pulled back the drape, revealing herself to Cass. "It's a dress, I guess." That about summed it up.

---

"I'll have to ask them both about it then, perhaps after a few drinks. I can't imagine he wants to relive something like that without an ale or two in him, hah~" Talking with Esclabor would be easier now, wouldn't it? They've gotten along at the arena... Right? For the most part? In some way... She hoped.

Nothing left to think on that, Claire pulling her stall open, leaving Cass to gasp and smile. "Wonderful~! Oh, you look just darling in that. I knew this was the right decision~ Now, let's get you into this one, come, come." Cass muscled her way into the stall and pulled the curtain back, with something unrelated on her mind.

"So. I don't think Sidney is a good fit for my brother," she started, hanging their choices on one of the small racks. "And I want to see how well he gets along with you. He's told me that he likes you, perhaps in that way, and I know you get along with him, at least as a vassal... What do you think?"

---

"You really think so?" Claire was surprised that Cass was so fond of it - with another glance in the mirror, the only notable detail she could gleam was that it matched the colour of her eyes. That's nice, I guess? She didn't have long to think about it before Cass joined her in the stall, getting a brief "Huh?" out of the mage as she watched carefully. 

Whatever she'd been expecting however, didn't quite match up with the reality. "That's erm," Claire wasn't quite sure what to say. She liked Owen, at least based on the way he conducted himself as prince, but what was she supposed to do? "I don't really get it." A slightly pained look confused across her face. "What am I supposed to do? Just talk and hope that we fall for one another? That sounds, um, awkward." 

She tried to think it through rationally, and not fall to pieces like she had earlier, but it was a strange situation to find herself in. The news that Owen liked her was certainly news to Claire. "Why do you think that they aren't a good match?" This was just kind of weird. Hopefully Cass' explanation would make sense; she only had recollections of an awkward alcohol-induced conversation in Magon as a sign that anything was wrong.

---

"That's how you'll start," she nodded, leaning back against the wall. "And I'm sure some of it will be awkward, but... Ugh. I just..." Why do I think they aren't a good match, hah... "I've spoken to both of them on their worries for this relationship, and I... Call me crazy, but it's just the vibe I get from it all. Owen is afraid to go beyond hands and hugs with Sidney, she wishes to push him there but he isn't receptive, it's making them both upset..."

She sighed. "And I know that a relationship has more to it than just sex. I'm not foolish. But it's an odd block, for people that seem to want something like this. My talk with Owen was far more insightful, he went so far as to wonder whether or not he was even ready for something like this... And I did ask him of you, he said that he liked you. There was just never any time to speak with each other..."

Cass blushed a bit, out of embarrassment. "I realize I must sound rather stupid, but I just want my brother to be as happy as I am. To be able to look at the person they're with and have no regrets doing so. And I don't feel he'll achieve that with Sidney... I don't even know if he'd be able to with you! But... I want you two to try. At least..."

---

It felt a little intrusive to listen in her friend's relationship struggles, but if Claire was to understand what the princess was talking about, she had to do it. "That seems... weird." She nodded cautiously, not sure if it was her place to comment, based on her total lack of experience. "No, it's not that strange, I think." Another nod followed. "Shouldn't they just be able to talk it through?" If it all stemmed from a lack of physical affection, it seemed like their relationship was far from stable.

"I think that I understand now, though." It was a strange twist that Cass ended up being the one blushing, but Claire didn't pay it any mind. "I guess that I could try it, but I really don't know what to start with..." It was tricky. "I don't really know what to say without say without setting the conversation off as too formal..." Speaking of business was very different to speaking as people, after all.

It took Claire a few seconds to break the silence again, with a sigh and a shrug of her shoulders - which made her suddenly remember just what they were doing. "I guess I'll have to figure something out." Her eyes drifted back towards the assembled line of dresses, wondering which would be the best fit for her. Hopefully she could find something better.

---

"Maybe... I don't know how far their talks have gone, but judging from my brother, they've spoken about it a bit. And... I-I know, Claire, it's a silly thing to ask of you, but... Well, just... You don't have to, if you don't want to, you know?" Cass stood up straight a bit, putting a cautious hand on Claire's shoulder.

"I know that my brother means a lot to you-- just as a liege. I don't want you to feel like you have to do this as an order, or anything... If you wish to try, then... Try to see how he's doing. That would be a good place to start, and set a conversation. I know he's got a lot on his mind, a lot that I can't attend to. I'm sure someone like you would be able to help him with it."

That was a decent place to start, right? Surely. Cass let Claire go, leaning back again, and nodding with another tiny, contained sigh. "If you can, of course. And again, don't feel forced. It's just a... Request, I suppose. Not even a favor. Now, should I leave for you to try on the others, or would you rather I stay?"

---

"I don't mind giving it a try." Claire didn't see what she had to lose from it - all she had to do was speak with Owen. Although based on how busy he seemed in the morning, perhaps that was a tall ask. Would he just want to be left alone once he finally had some free time? She certainly would. You're overthinking this. All Claire had to do was just speak with him, and without fear of being awkward. It was simple, really.

She gave Cass a reassuring pat on the shoulder, who for once seemed even more anxious than she was. "We'll see how things go, hm?" That was all they could really do. "As for the clothes, it's your call really. There should be something here that suits me, with everything you've picked out, so you really don't have to. Do you still have things to do today?" Claire didn't mind Cass' company at all, but she didn't want to keep her if she was busy with the wedding plans.

---

"If you say so. And... Claire, I didn't mean leave the shop, I meant did you want me in or out of the stall. I still have to make sure these fit you, you know..." Cass chuckled, wondering just how much Claire didn't get about interacting with other people.

---

"Oh. Erm..." Claire pursed her lips, thinking intently. Her immediate reaction was to send Cass out, but with all of the dresses the princess had assembled, she would have to spend so much time coming out and showing her. 

"You can stay, but don't peek, alright?" An accompanying frown hopefully got the point across. Claire was not Adele. She waited idly for Cass to avert her eyes, trusting that her friend hadn't picked out anything too revealing.

---

"Oh, don't peek... Perhaps it would be best that I remain outside, then~ Thank you for the talk, and good luck with the dresses. I'll wait outside to make sure you've got them all on properly. It may take more time, but... Best to respect your wishes, hmm?" Cass smirked, and stepped out, leaning against the wall with a sigh. Ahhh, well.

[Shin]

Etcha-Fletch

The Fletcher's had changed very little since Owen's last visit, it was still relatively quiet but the young woman from before had a taller man standing beside her. Clad in armour not too dissimilar to Thwomp's own, it was likely it was the guard she had mentioned the previous day. Whilst not as enormous as Thwomp, he was a sturdy fellow, taller and bulkier than either Nelon or Esclabor. With a black mullet on his head and a scar across his right eye, the man would have been rather intimidating if it hadn't been for his relaxed expression. Approaching Owen and extending his hand, the man smiled at Owen.

"You must be the guy that Sally here was talking about. I'm Turstam, one of the city guards." he greeted, his hand still extended. "I was thinking of going fishing this afternoon, I was only on morning duty, but I couldn't say no when Sally looked at me with those eyes. I swear, she's got her grandpa's will right in her. So, was it arrows you were hoping to deal with? They're a little tricky, but I can show you a thing or two."

Caring Denial

Sidney's choice to use the back entrance was probably a wise one, guards were stationed outside the front of her house. There were unfamiliar voices inside the house, her mother talking to a group of people from the main hall, audible as Sidney slipped into the building.

"I haven't seen her, she's definitely not here." Elvira retorted, audibly frustrated with her guests. "I'd know if my own daughter were in the house, can't you go look somewhere else? If you damage the decorations, my husband will ensure that Queen Ethel knows."

"Lady Montana, we've got reports that your daughter is in Tytila... escaping prison is no crime that can be ignored, not even your connections can hand wave this one." a guard replied sternly. "We shall return tomorrow, hopefully you'll feel more cooperative then... otherwise things might be harder when we do catch your daughter."

Footsteps could be heard from the entry hall, the guards were making their exit, the sounds of multiple footsteps suggesting there were at least a few present.

Towering Company

Thwomp had either kept quiet out of politeness or simply wasn't able to contribute to the conversation. "It OK, Thwomp not tired, he used to standing a lot. Thwomp does what he's told. Thwomp is guard captain, so he tells guards what to do... but Thwomp take orders he given from superiors." he replied, unsure how to respond to the disagreement between Cass and Serge. "Thwomp tries to be nice to everyone, because Thwomp knows what it like to be made fun of."
 

[SB.]

With the clothes shopping concluded and some proper food finally in her stomach, Claire was a bit of a loss as to what to do with herself in the afternoon. She'd done some 'light reading' after her meal, but it was heavy stuff to digest, and what she really needed was for Constance's lessons to begin. With that in mind, she wasn't feeling especially inspired to keep going with it, and her mind drifted to the conversation she'd had with Morganna earlier that morning.

The recollection caused her to head towards the Wizarding College, returning to it far earlier than she'd expected. It hasn't even been a year... It was only a branch of the College, but there was still plenty she could learn for it. Part of her wanted to check Morganna's authenticity, but another was still wary about asking. They should already know of Malaphar's existence, shouldn't they? She didn't know if there was some kind of connection there or not, but the last thing she wanted to do was spring a trap on herself. Claire had already done that one time too many in Magon, she didn't want a repeat.

Even as she entered the building, she wasn't quite sure what she was looking for. This was likely her last stop when it came towards gathering information, but exactly what the mage wanted to inquire about was still unclear. She doubted that she would spot any familiar faces from her College days considering it was a different country, but maybe that was a good thing.

[Nanami Touko]

"Perhaps, but she does it so well," Cass sighed out, trying not to focus on that. "Yes, they might not serve you, but they serve Adele, and so they are lackeys. I don't quite understand your disagreement, unless you've somehow found insult in the term lackey. It's just a way to call a servant... It's about who's using it and how for it to bring offense, silly Serge~ You're a... Family of lackeys! Yes, quite. You're quite entertaining, I must say. I hope Adele keeps you around. You know how to use a sword well enough, and you give me things to giggle at. What fun~"

This Thwomp was definitely one of the most kind people she'd ever met, smiling up at him. "That's definitely a very pleasant outlook on things. I wonder if we could bring you along with us when we go to take Wyke back from Deira... It would do for me to have such kind personnel at hand. Esclabor's a bit thorny, and Nelon's afraid of getting near me... Not a me thing, he's scared of all women. You're... Refreshing. And I quite appreciate it. But look at me babbling, we're already here! Now... Let's see if anyone else in town is just as refreshing."

Aurus' shop came into view, Cass trying not to hesitate as she pushed aside the doors into the once again stunning shop. It only took her a moment to find the man in charge. "Aurus... How do you do? I was wondering, on the progress of those rings I'd set aside."

[Dandragon]

Serge couldn't even believe what he was hearing. From the complete disregard of anything he had said to the way Cassandra had referred to him. Keep him around? Like some sort of pet? Because he was funny to her? The more he spoke with her, the angrier he got. But, before he could even say anything back, she was already speaking to Thwomp again. And before he could interrupt THAT, they had arrived at the store. And so, Serge bit his tongue, and held back all the things he wanted to start spitting back at the Princess. So, this is the thanks I get for saving your royal butt from the sewers, He thought to himself, Maybe Niko was right about nobles.

[riariadne]

Sidney froze in place as she heard the distant voices and the clunk of armor as guards moved around the front of her home. After they quieted down, she made her way down the red hallway. "Mother..." she started, unsure what to say. "Sorry for causing so much trouble for you and father with my return. It's been a whole big mess, I'd thought there might be some level of things going better since I helped Prince Owen, but that seems to be in the air until he talks with the Queen, I guess. He might be here later in the evening after he has a few meetings to attend, he seemed positive about the prospect of meeting you and father." That thought, at least, brought a smile to her face, but it was all too brief as she thought over the root of her issues.

"I think it's Ferdinand's fault... I ran into him yesterday, and he acted like he didn't recognize me, but I don't know who else would've that I've talked to. I don't look all that different, but enough that I'd be hard just to recognize from an old poster if you didn't know who you were looking for. He didn't like me very much when we were younger since I didn't fawn over him like all the other girls... do you or father still keep in touch with his family? Outside of council business, anyway, I think we didn't." Maybe I could find if he's up to something... or if it's just a vendetta. Or if it's somehow not him, though it surely is, right?.

[Shin]

Heart of Gold, Pants of Gold

Thwomp seemed a little taken aback by Cass' praise, the gentle giant stunned momentarily. "That very nice to say, Thwomp glad he doing his job right. Thwomp grateful but he need to stay in Tytila. Thwomp's grandma need looking after and nobody else in family here any more." he replied, looking down at Cass with a solemn gaze. "Besides, Thwomp too big for horses, it take too long walking!"

Thwomp's House is added to the list of locations!

-

Aurum's Emporium was as excessively extravagant as it had been before, and its owner was no exception. His hair slicked back, his golden pants glimmering, the man clearly spared no expense with his gaudy exterior. The man had been carrying a stack of parchment, but as soon as Cass approached, he quickly dumped it on one of his employees. Practically pushing his underling out of the way, he approached Cass, his grin widening. The other shoppers watched curiously, perhaps his antics were not that uncommon?

"Ah, Princess Cassandra, I was just thinking about you and your request." he soothed, straightening out his shirt. "It should only be another day or two before they're done. When I was given a task by none other than the princess of a foreign nation, I couldn't help but put that at the top of my worklist! It would be no good if a royal wedding was delayed because of late rings!"

Aurus leaned towards Cass, lowering his voice and raising his eyebrows. "To think, I can say that I supplied for not only a royal wedding, but for the first official wedding between two women in all of Raewald." he marvelled, making a mock rainbow with his hand. "Everyone will flock towards my wonderful emporium before they get married, they'll know that the best always go to Aurus!"

Thwomp stood there, stunned by the merchant. The glamour and decor were on a completely different level to the towering giant. It was unlikely that any of the rings would even fit on his fingers.

Nerd Herd

The Tytila branch of the College wasn't particularly large, although was certainly bigger than Wyke's own Mages' guild. The entry hall was rather under decorated, save for a few tapestries on the walls. Perhaps a dozen people were littered around her, most of them young scholars, not too disimilar in age to herself. A middle aged woman sat at the desk, looking at Claire curiously through her glasses.

"You're not one of the students... but you're certainly a mage. Is there something that brings you to the Raewald branch?" she asked, almost dismissive of Claire's intrusion. "If you're looking for our lead tutor, he's currently dealing with another visitor, you'll have to be patient. Jeez, first that little scamp with the blue hair and now you. This isn't a drop-in service."
 

Mamma Mia

Elvira sighed, slumping onto an armchair as soon as the guards were gone. "If I knew it were this stressful I'd have become a nu-... oh, hello Charlotte." she replied quickly, sitting up as soon as she noticed her daughter. Letting out a sigh, she shook her head. "I was so happy to have you back, and then all of this happens. I'm not sure your father can fix this, Charlotte... we were hoping he could sort a deal out."

Sidney's mention of Ferdinand caught her interest, although it was a name that took her some time to place. "You mean the Gallahans' boy? He used to follow you everywhere when you were little. His mother sometimes invites me to her tea gatherings, but it has been a while since... I could always try and talk to her when I next can. Maybe you could ask Prince Owen if he could help too? If Ferdinand is responsible for you being hunted, I'm not sure that he would let it go so easily."

[Nanami Touko]

Cass took note of Thwomp's mention, before bracing herself for another smug merchant, another angry citizen, another... No? He... What? Cass stood stunned, in an all new fashion, staring at Aurus as he beamed proudly. She found a small drip crawling down her face, quickly wiping her eyes and laughing quietly. "Sorry, s-sorry... I... I just wasn't expecting..." She waved a hand at her face, a silly little smile sliding onto it, trying to calm herself down.

"Wonderful!" she squeaked, coughing a moment and clearing her throat. "Wonderful... I, apologize for my small outburst, pay me no mind. Another day or two, wonderful. I've managed to secure a dress from Sylvesters, so I'm sure your ring will stand out even more proudly as the most beautiful part of my wear. I'll make sure to collect them as soon as they're ready... Would you like me to bring my fiancée along with me? I'm sure that, after the treatment we've been given, she'd love to receive positive reception..."

[SB.]

The location may have been different, but Claire was still filled with a strange sense of deja vu as she noticed all of the students mulling about. With so many around, I think that I should be safe... Even if there was something strange going on with the inner workings of the College, linking them to Malaphar, there was no way that mages as green as these were involved. The realisation filled her with confidence, and small smile grew on her face in spite of the rather irritated receptionist.

"I was wondering, how closely are you in contact with the main College in Wihtwar? I was hoping to inquire about someone, but I don't know how freely you share your information." She offered a small shrug. "His name is Malaphar - he's a mage, of sorts." Far more than a mage, but it wasn't an inaccurate description "Have you heard of him?"

[Juliette]

"Well, any secrets behind my armor would be very obvious now, wouldn't they?" Freya pointed out, gesturing to her lacking defenses compared to usual, before taking a look at the wares. Might as well.

--

Freya exited Sylvester's without any new clothes to speak of. While there had been a few garments she fancied, she didn't want to ask more gold after already requesting nearly two thousand from the prince in the morning, and would've felt guilty asking for any more than that. To be back on the streets of Tytila was a bit overwhelming, and the increase in guard activity and mentions of a returned criminal seemed to bode ill for at least one member of their party. It dawned upon Freya just how little she knew about the city as she walked without any true goal. As she walked, she saw many intriguing buildings, most of which seemed off limits to someone of her standing, but one in particular struck her as both welcoming and of interest- a library.

Freya goes to City Library

[riariadne]

"Mm... if it was King Edwin, this would all be so much easier, right?" Sidney asked, seemingly missing her mother's first comment. Though she hadn't spoken to her mother much about the new queen, it was a fair assessment- Anthony and Edwin had been excellent friends, but Queen Ethel and her father had no such history. "Instead this will be a whole lot of work to try and regain favor. Really, I wouldn't think they'd be so fervent over just a girl, but that's the scenario we're faced with, and I'm in trouble once again. Maybe father's talks combined with that of Prince Owen will be enough in combination- or maybe not, I can't tell, since I don't know the Queen very well."

She nodded to confirm her mother's question. "Ferdinand Gallahan, that's him, I'd nearly forgotten his last name. He's different now. I heard he spends time with lots of different girls, Engel knows how they fall for him, and does a lot of singing too. Maybe he really is just bitter." Maybe I'm projecting. "But I don't know what he's hoping for... I didn't think he disliked me that much. He pretended not to recognize me when we spoke, but there's no way he'd forget, so he has to be up to something, at least."

[Ether]

As much as Adeltrudis loathed to go out to the streets of Tytila once again, they had proven themselves far from hospitable, and even less so enjoyable to traverse in her short time there, her grievances fell to the wayside for one thing in particular. Apparently, her brother was attending the military academy in this city, so it was only prudent to go and see him. Reaching the entrance without incident, it appeared that the guard was not bothered by her entrance, which was a pleasant surprise considering earlier experiences in Raewald. Entering the open training hall, she found her brother relatively quickly... just where she would have expected him to be.

"Brother. It's been a while."