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How To Deliver Justice (with KiraMusani

Kenna, true to her promise, said to Ruby, "You have your beloved this entire time. I have to split time between you and Dominic who's being a bit more out of sorts than usual. Come. Spend time with your mother."

Ruby sighed, "But what about your present? Clair and I wanted to give that together. I do want to spend time with you tonight, but I also wanted to give you the present we made you, right after dinner."

Aurora saw she had to step in. She had just had a private consultation with her mentor, Arden, regarding Dom. "It would be advisable, my queen, not to talk with Dominic until tomorrow morning after Arden has seen him anyway. His actions towards a more than qualified female physician was less than adequate."

Kenna glanced at Arden and chuckled. "You taught her that saying, didn't you, lieutenant?" She used air quotes, "more than qualified, less than adequate."

Aurora shook her head. "He might have helped me with the correct wording, but my own experience this afternoon was enough for that to be true."

Arden nodded. "While I was checking her trachea and breathing abilities after nearly being choked. I'm also concerned with the exact wording he used against her and Olivia. It's the reason I think seeing him tonight is inadvisable, Your Majesty."

Ruby then motioned to Clair's parents, and the two doctors. "In that case, why don't you all come and see what we built for Mother and Father. Then I'll gladly enjoy the gardens with MY Mother so Clair can talk to her parents and the physicians can talk about this new invention amongst themselves."

"I say anything to make you happy, my Cordonian Ruby." Kenna smiled, proving to the Handlers what they may have already suspected. Ruby was the apple of her eye, and Kenna would give her anything within reason, and the Handlers as the fourth Great House of Cordonia would actually be a boon for Ruby's happiness AND Cordonia's future; a true win-win.

As everyone left for elsewhere in the castle, Gregor took a deep breath. "Olivia. Avenger. Hold." He glanced at Ethel, hoping she would stay without being bidden as his advisor.

Everyone else was now gone from the dining hall save the four. Gregor asked fatherly. "You two mind telling me why you did not think to alert me you intended to paint two portraits, but only have one appraised for points? Ruby alerted me, and I told her as long as she finished her main one. That means she had permission, and both would be appraised separately." He sighed. "I have not counted Ruby's other painting yet, because I have two more completed that were unexpected. Olivia, your other portrait of Ethel, here, and Avenger, your other of Ruby, I couldn't even show the court. I deserve an explanation, since I would never expect you, Olivia, of doing anything against the court rules and fair play." He gave a warning glare at his daughter, that may even alert his advisor to make a step towards Princess Calla as Avenger, hand on the hilt of her sword. "My daughter, on the other hand... Seems to enjoy pushing the vigilante card."

Calla gulped, staring at Ethel with deer in the hunter's sights eyes.

Olivia, unfazed ,asked, "Gregor, was any written law actually broken, or is it just an unwritten rule of etiquette? I wanted to paint Ethel, but didn't want to leave out the only other woman who had my respect. Calla already had it, and she even bonded with a wolf. A wolf, that I reminded her, will know her by scent, regardless of what she is wearing."

This only seemed to appease Gregor as far as Olivia was concerned. He looked to Ethel. "You've heard from everyone at court regarding Calla's exploits and bad habit of bending my rules. In this case, it would help no one except herself. What do you advise be done?"

Calla Avenger's eyes pled Ethel for mercy.
 
Though Clair wanted to help Ruby she stayed quiet, not believing it was her place to say anything on the matter, Ethel also wanted to ensure that they didn't go see Dom, but waited to see the natural conclusion first, if Kenna insisted she would speak up, but luckily that was not the case.

The Handlers raised an eyebrow.
"Another invention huh? I thought we said to just focus on the games." Her mother said, though they chuckled, not actually mad, but more so realizing that this is exactly what was expected.
"I am curious what you two came up with" Mr. Handler added.

Ethel did indeed stay, satisfied now that Kenna confirmed she would not be going down to see Dom with Ruby.

Ethel looked at the two, then back to Gregor.
"Well as far as this competition, I do not have much experience in, I am merely one raised on wartime knowledge, however, points seem to weigh heavily on this competition, if one gets more points for painting more than one, then punish by only counting points for one of the portraits, the other to be considered done on their own time and unrelated to the games. Unless there is something I misunderstood about the rules, I believe the punishment should fit the crime, and this, King Gregor, is not the greatest of crimes." She paused and looked at the two girls.
"However, Intent should also be considered, was their intent malicious? I don't think so, but if you have reason to believe they or one of them did this to undermine your rule, perhaps another punishment could be in order, do you think they did this for that reason?" She asked.
 
Gregor shook his head. "No. You understood perfectly. By your own admission of said rules, Ruby, one: asked permission; and two: actually completed both portraits in the allotted time. These two did not, and only assumed it was okay, although both portraits were completed in the allotted time."

He sighed. "Olivia gave one of several correct responses to the question of why she hadn't. Calla, however, just stood there looking ashamed and guilty. Not even an agreement with Olivia for her answer, who even asked verification for the import of what was broken."

He rubbed a hand over his face. "You have seen how utterly sick I am of the nobility getting away with things. My own daughter should be held to the same standard. It will be as you said. The only one to actually ask permission will get bonus points, and my need for your advice will net you a bonus as well."

He turned to Olivia and Avenger. "Your second portraits are thus honoured as completed for the gifts they are to be, but you will not be receiving points for them. Perhaps, Olivia, if you participate next year, you will remember to ask permission."

Olivia nodded her understanding, "At least Ethel will receive a gift of a portrait. When is the exchange again? Right after the tree hunting?"

Gregor nodded, and watched Calla Avenger just stand there. "What are you waiting for, Squire Dunwyn? You have been dismissed. You have been in court enough to know immediately after a sentence is proclaimed, if they aren't in chains, the punished is excused."

Calla couldn't leave the dining hall fast enough, stumbling over her own feet in her hurry to leave. With another sigh, Gregor looked at Ethel with 'tired parent' eyes. "That tears it. I'm asking Arden to examine Calla's head after he's finished with Dominic's." He quipped with a smirk.
-------------------------

Ruby looked to Kenna first, and after getting a nod from her, linked arms with Clair, before heading up the steps to get the charging squawkers. "With Father not exactly coherent according to the Cordonian physicians, how are we going to show Mother how they work? I still want her to have them. Tonight, if possible."

(To you for the presentation of the squawkers to Kenna)
 
Ethel nodded and listened to the following sentences, simply nodding her head at her extra points.
"Heh, are you certain that is the information you want?" She jested back returning a smirk.

Clair took her arm and went with her.
"Oh, I could stay back in my room as you take the other one down to her, or you can stay here and you can explain how they work to her, through it from my room?" She suggested. Though she was more in favour of the former, as that way Ruby can give her mother the gift, and see her reaction to it's capabilities.
 
Gregor chuckled softly, shoulders moving, as he smiled and shook his head. "She'll have to get a complete physical before her knighting anyway..." He shrugged.

Gregor would move forward with plans to knight his daughter, thus returning her title to her, on the morrow. He half expected Olivia to confirm the proof that currently Calla was princess in blood only to the rest of the court, AND Crimson Avenger had been in a courtroom, i.e. the throne room as a character witness countless times before. After all, the king DID remind Avenger she had been in court plenty of times before during sentencing. There weren't sentences being issued during the court games. Usually.
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Ruby looked puzzled for a minute, before her eyes shown, as the lamp was lit inside. "Ohh, I see what you mean! The problem is I want your folks and the doctors there, just in case my mom faints. This is the most technological advancement thing I've ever been hands on for making. Until I met you, I was, well, a normal smart but spoiled princess. You helped me see my love for nature, and helping Drs Arden and Service with medicine could be a hobby, and a rewarding one at that." She looked at her feet a minute, before back to Clair's face. "Plus helping you with this, no matter what happens, has really been an encouragement, but I'm definitely not ready to present an invention, like talking about it. You're much more experienced in that."

The time it took to say that, the seven would find themselves in Clair's room, where Aurora excused herself from Arden to again look at the microscope Clair and her used to discover water was two elements instead of one, but they didn't know how to separate the two yet. Arden stayed next to the queen, who stood next to Mrs Handler.

Kenna asided to Mrs Handler, upon looking around, "Oh the mischief two budding scientists could get into, trying to farther our knowledge!" She teased. "I'm glad your proposed castle has a built in safe room, the other owner used to hide himself. She'd have plenty of room to invent and my daughter would constantly want a science play date with her!"
 
Ethel nodded, staying with Gregor as long as he wanted before dismissing her.

---------------------------------------------------

Clair blushed at the compliment.
"You also inspired me greatly, and your connection to nature is a great help, it's honestly one of the areas that don't quite click as easy as others. Though next time there is a lightning storm I have a few thing I want to try." She shook her head catching herself getting distracted.
"Right, we will find a way to present it together"

As they arrived Clair saw the other looking at the microscope.
"Oh hey, about our water, I was thinking of trying to boil it, to see if that will force them apart" she suggested as she grabbed their now charged devices.

Mrs. Handler smiled.
"Oh my, I am not sure Clair needed anyone to encourage her further in her projects, but I am curious on what the girls will come up with when they put their heads together, honestly our girl thinks of the craziest things." She chuckled.
"We had a shed that she used to experiment in until she blew it up one day."
 
Gregor only kept Ethel long enough to show her the royal dubbing sword, which was much like a knight's traditional broadsword, explaining how under normal circumstances, in Dunwyn, Calla would be getting dubbed with her own broadsword, but he being male, and the sword was made to Amazon specifications, the king couldn't even lift it. Crimson Avenger was just going to be knighted the old fashioned way. After the explanation, and Ethel sworn not to tell what the morrow would bring for Avenger, she was excused.
-----------&--------

Kenna choked back on her chuckle. "Yes, you definitely should give the safe room to Clair for her lab. It's large enough it could even be her bedchambers if she so wishes." She described the room to being about twice the size of the entire general store they have now.

Aurora glanced at Clair. With a teasing grin, she said, "I thought we already figured that out, it's just getting it under this thing while it's boiling to see if it separates the two." She glanced over to Ruby, holding one of the squawkers out to Kenna who raised her eyebrow as she took the box. "I think you're on. I noticed Ruby didn't grab the other squawker, I think she wants you to speak something into it for the queen. Like a greeting." She pointed with her head in that direction. "I'd advise explaining how it works, first, before showing her. Kenna may be forward thinking, but these squawkers are like nothing ever attempted little alone working, before."
 
Ethel listened in and nodded to the explanation.
"Well, why not have someone else hold the sword for you? You still say the words and all that, but have someone stand in as your arm? But if this is better, it's your tradition so I'll turn off my advisor input and be on my way" she said giving a warriors bow before leaving.

Mrs Handler returned the chuckle.
"We will certainly think about it, though we don't like her shop being where she sleeps, causes too many sleepless nights." She admitted.

Clair slapped a hand to her forehead.
"Right! I'm sorry I have had some ideas on that but no time to work on them, I suppose when I got lost in thought about them I got confused and thought I had done them already, soon! Though" she replied and get the squawkers.

"Right! So umm, Miss, umm Kenna Queen madam, umm... The squawkers, a joint venture be myself and your brilliant daughter. Operate by pressing that wooden part on the side down, then you speak into the bottom part, and that gets sent to the matching one and speaks your words there, then you release it to hear their response." She nervously explained, getting a little more confident as she went on.
 
Gregor returned Ethel's warrior bow.

Kenna looked the box over from every possible angle, before giving Ruby a raised eyebrow, which looked more like she was marvelling at Ruby finally delving into science.

Ruby noticed Clair had forgotten something they had already learned about the squawkers. "Umm, when you finish, so the person on the other side knows for sure you're finished, you say 'over'. That was also kinda trial and error. Which I didn't know happened a lot in science discovery."

Aurora and Arden both blinked as they stared at their princess. "You didn't?!" They both chimed together. Arden then put a hand, palm against his forehead, and groaned, shaking his head, rubbing down his face.

Kenna even frowned. "If you want to help scientists, or be one yourself, you need to start learning quickly there WILL be 'trial and error', Ruby. It's part of learning the field. I'm sure even Arden can tell you it happens in medicine and nature studies." She then pressed the button and said, "Do you receive me? Over." She released the button, and everyone heard the other squawker immediately ask Kenna's question. She sounded like a parrot squawking, but it was clearly her. "Fascinating. So that's why you call them squawkers. You've learned to name things like your mother, Ruby." She mused.

"What's the distance this thing goes?" Kenna asked.

Ruby thought for a minute and then asked Clair, "What did Olivia and Millie say? Eight kilometres?" She forgot the 20 kilometre roaming, but she got that maximum distance from the squawkers, right.

"Tasks and chores would go much faster with this invention, and I wouldn't have to hover over certain people that seem to need to be told three and four times to do something." Kenna stated, then looked right at Ruby, "There's times I need to give Dom a list of supplies and he always forgets something. With this, written list or not, he could always tell me what he has already, and I can remind him if he forgot something BEFORE he even leaves the market. With this he can verify easily."

Arden folded his arms and looked at a blushing Aurora with a smirk. "Sound familiar, Service? How many times have I had to send YOU back to the apothecary?"

Maybe Mrs Handler had had similar encounters with Sir Handler? It sounded like it would definitely improve communication, just like Olivia thought.
 
Clair nodded as the 'over' information was added.
"Right! yes that is more of a helpful user tip, but isn't something that is part of the mechanical aspect of it" Clair confirmed.

"Oh yes Ruby, in fact with many of my inventions it was a lot more error then anything else" She admitted with a blush.

"Oh yes, I believe Ruby is correct 8 Kilometers, though I also recall us being told 20 kilometres too, but not quite what that was for. Anyway, we are still working on improving the distance"

The Handlers chuckled.
"That might just be part of having a daughter, our little Clair can really focus on things, but usually forgets to do pretty much everything else." Mr. Handler replied.
"Heh, my husband does the same thing, he always seems to forget at least one thing on the list" Mrs. Handler chuckled at Kenna's complaint.
 
Kenna seemed to handle the invention without a lot of fuss, and Ruby showed her mother how to put it back in the carrying device, calling it a dock, explaining that was Clair's idea, she only made the section that houses the battery.

Arden perked up with this information and asked what Ruby called the housing.

Kenna frowned and cleared her throat, as she heard it was a 'cell', and asked what it did that was so wrong. She then lectured Ruby, before Ruby had explained the name, about what a cell really was.

After Ruby explained why she called it a cell... It held the battery in place so it wouldn't knock into the portable squawkers, and pointed out the jail like bars, holding it in it's part of the dock, Aurora grimaced, Arden rolled his eyes, and Kenna relented.

"I guess there is no better name for the battery holder, than battery cell, after all. But why battery and not charger? And why call this carrying case a dock, when it's more like a port?"

Ruby blushed and looked to Clair for help. "Well, I mean, when we were trying to move everything before the cell addition I made.... Umm, the charger, which Clair called it, was bouncing inside the dock, umm that's Clair's word to, and kept hitting the squawkers. So... I even said, 'that's not a charger, Clair, it's a battery! Mother's poor present!'"

Arden had to chuckle and asided to Clair, "Unfortunately, without the cell for the charger, she's got you there. From the story, the charger really is a batterer. Thus battery makes perfect sense, and it's room being a cell to house said battery."

He cleaned his throat. "The carry case for the squawkers and their battery, could have been called a number of things, and I'm glad you didn't settle on boat or ship, as it's used to transport goods across the ocean. Since this should stay in one place once everything is set up, I agree with dock or port. But I'll remind our two budding scientists that things are IMported and EXported from a dock or pier. The carry case should be called a port."

Kenna had to agree with Arden, citing that his logic was why he was so high ranked for a medic in her army. She even admitted Dominic, currently cooling his heels in Dunwyn's sot sit, couldn't argue with him being a Lieutenant.

"If this invention reveal is over, I would like to go in the gardens with my daughter, now. The Handlers have things to discuss as well."

Aurora didn't say a word, just grabbed Arden by his arm and pulled him out the door. "You heard the queen, boss, let's get lost ourselves!"

Kenna and Ruby soon followed, leaving only the Handlers behind.
 
Clair looked to those whom were speaking as they spoke, not having much to say as she wasn't good at naming by her own opinion. As she shared a glance with Ruby, seeing her look of desperation but took a moment to think of what she could do or say, then she thought of it.

"Well it is Ruby and myself's invention, so even if others have a better name for it, it falls to us to either take your suggestion or to keep our own ideas, and I have agreed that naming will be RUby's last call for this device, though if Ruby wants to let the recipient of the gift to name it, that will be her choice" Clair nervously spoke up, hoping to of helped Ruby out.

As Kenna spoke up about needing to talk to Ruby and Clair to her own parents the Handlers nodded in agreement.

Clair would hug her parents, finally having some time alone with them as well as talk with them about all the things that had happened, they would do pleasantries and happily let her talk before bringing up the deal and showing her the paperwork they had, her mother doing the majority of the talking when it came to the move. She wasn't sure how she felt, she would be excited for a nicer work room, but had some regulars she would want to still be able to provide for. After much discussion and the addition of a system that allowed people from her home town to order things to be delivered, they all agreed with the proposal. Of course this would all need to be discussed with Kenna, having new requests to be set up.
 
The new day was the normal greyish day in England, with some rays of the sun peeking through. Everyone would be having breakfast, of oatmeal with butter, with choices of fruit preserves, syrup or cinnamon to put in it, with a second course later of eggs, bacon and a conglomerate of potatoes, onions, peppers and cheese all mixed together; the cheese, shredded, sprinkled atop and slightly melting in it.

Gregor cleared his throat as he tapped his tea cup with a fork. "Everyone is invited to the throne room after for Squire Dunwyn to be knighted for her service to the crown as The Crimson Avenger." He looked at his daughter. "Have you decided on your full knight title, yet?"

Calla swallowed her bite of potatoes. "Yes, sire. If it's just a knighting, then, Dame Calla and my hero name."

Olivia, being Olivia, scoffed, "And what about your abilities to fight when you need to? If it's on the table you should ask for Warrior Calla. You're half Amazon after all. Most knighted Amazons I've ever met, unless they're blood princesses are called 'Warrior Sister'. Despite your faults, I say you deserve no less."

Gregor raised an eyebrow. "Coming from a Lythikan, I would expect no less of a comment. What about you other knights? Those on Avenger's side, that is, or Ethel and Diana, being warriors themselves. Does Avenger deserve the Warrior title as Olivia says?"

Calla sighed. "And I think being stripped of princess was best for me to learn humility. I know this means you have to find a different heir... But because of Igthorne, Cavin, certain others and several other things, I'm not fit to rule Dunwyn." Her eyes were glistening beaded tears as she said it, at least she achieved her dream of knighthood. "I'll be a knight for one of our allies though, and come back, but only to fight for England. I can't rule here. Too many bad memories."

Forks all up and down the dining table dropped into their plates, some right into their food left on their plates. Gregor dabbed the corners of his mouth. "I see. Cordonia is the only country here that needs knights, Lythikos and Amazons you'll just be one of many, maybe hundreds."

"Three hundred at last count in Lythikos." Olivia offered, knowing, and hoping Diana corrected the king on warriors in Amazona and Themiscyra, which numbered in the thousands. "In Lythikos, you'll just be one of a legion, Calla, I wouldn't give up my princessdom for that. Just a number."

Calla shook her head. "I've already made up my mind. I'm stepping down, or abdicating. I think I've also decided on who I will marry, as well." She didn't even try to steal a glance at whomever she had picked, which would leave most the table gobsmacked, the king included!

Maybe some of the knights, present and retired (like Sir Handler) had seen this twist coming?
 
Diana was the first to reply upon being asked if they had agreed with Olivia's statement.
"Yes, she has shown herself to be a true born Amazonian, and even though not raised as one, still has developed into a good warrior and friend"
She stood up and spoke before sitting back down, then turning her gaze to Ethel, prompting her to speak in the following.

Ethel paused, meeting Diana's gaze before also replying, standing up as Diana had.
"Though I may not be recognized as an Amazonian here, or at least not like Diana is, I believe she can take on the warrior mantle, though she still has plenty to learn, she has shown where her priorities are"

Diana spoke up once again after Olivia in hearing that Calla had decided to drop out of her princess role.
"I must agree with Olivia, though only in part, this land needs a leader like yourself, with morals like yours. That does not mean you need to leave the warrior's life behind, you can be a princess and a warrior! Lead your people both on a throne and on the battlefield!" She encouraged.

Ethel stayed sitting, speaking again as well but not with the enthusiasm of the others.
"I'll just tell you this Calla, whatever choice you make, make it with great forethought, when you step down that leaves a place to fill a place with great influence, do you have any idea who you would trust as much or more than yourself to lead? If not and your replacement becomes a Tyrant, can you live with that?" She asked in a serious tone.

Sir Handler had a hunch this might happen but didn't say anything, knowing that this was a big moment and didn't involve him, especially with them planning to move soon and not be so close to the land she spoke of.
 
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As the table commented on Calla's surprise announcement, Sir Tuxford cleared his throat and after wiping his mouth... Or rather his bushy mustache (how could someone have more hair on his upper lip, then the top of his head? But, here we are) "I have to sadly admit, I saw this coming ever since a fourteen year old tomboy princess took up the mantle of Crimson Avenger, nearly four years ago. I agree wholehearted with Lady Ethel. You have all the makings and perseverance, as well as the stamina to be a warrior. You also have the morals and mindset to be a good and just Queen. The people support you near as I can tell, Calla. You could be England's equivalent to Queen Kenna of Cordonia, or Queen Diana of Amazona. Knights would gladly follow a kind, but battle seasoned warrior princess."

Kenna cleared her throat. "Although I thank Sir Tuxford for the kind words regarding my abilities, It would behoove you, Calla, to be your own person and leader. Sure, you could see how I handle my army and subjects, but use your discernment. Be yourself. There could be no better leader than who Calla is, not Calla pretending to be Diana, Kenna, or anyone else she may idolize." She took a deep breath. "Having said that, I too wonder who you would pick to take over the role of being the crowned princess of Dunwyn, who takes over after Gregor. That's entirely on you, Calla. Not your father.... You. YOU have to choose your successor."

"I already have. I have thought hard about this." Calla answered, looking up for the first time since she made her announcement. "I picked someone about my age, but with all the discernment to run a kingdom, since she has proven herself on finances and things regarding her father's lands and business. The Baroness of Pastries, herself. My friend and Clair's, and probably most of Dunwyn too. Someone who would have already been Dunwyn's favourite daughter if I hadn't taken the title as The Crimson Avenger. Cinnamon Baker."

Cinnamon promptly fell out of her chair in a faint. Aurora was right up, rushing to her. "Clair or Mrs Handler. Can I have one of you help me move her where she has some room to breathe?"

Amethyst looked between her king and Calla Avenger and now, assumingly her new princess, passed out on the floor. Her look of total confusion could be clear to only her two closest seatmates. The Handlers and Diana. "Wait... Am I now Cinnamon's bodyguard? I'm seriously lost right now. Should I go to Cinnamon's side?"

Calla looked sadly at her plate. "I'm sorry I'm causing so much drama. I'm doing what I think is right for Dunwyn..."
 
Both Clair and Mrs. Handler rushed to help as several whispers started at the table of people talking to one another about the announcement. Diana looked to Calla then to Cinnamon, thinking about her choice and why she may have made it.

While Ethel actually replied to Amethyst.
"Well if it's Calla's choice to step away from the throne, it's only fair we should give Cinnamon a choice to take it or not, don't rush to a decision until you hear from her, perhaps she doesn't want the throne, then what?"
 
Amethyst raised an eyebrow. "Good point, Ethel, but what girl, noble or not, in her right mind, WOULDN'T want to be in Calla's princess shoes?" She shook her head to regain her composure. "That still leaves this princess bodyguard in a fix. My last duty that Calla had for me, was to protect the Handlers until they returned to Dunwyn. That was completed upon our return to the castle." She looked to Gregor for help.

Gregor sighed. "Amethyst... If Calla is sure she's stepping down, you are the bodyguard for her chosen replacement until she says she's not taking the job. Of course, as Kenna said, if Cinnamon feels she cannot be princess, Calla is again and must choose again. If she's sure about abdicating, she has to pick her replacement. That's a rule, which until now, was never implicated. Go to acting Princess Cinnamon's side, and fulfill your role as bodyguard."

After taking a deep breath. "Except, Aurora, Amethyst and whomever Aurora chooses as help, please join me in the throne room. Doctor, please try to get Cinnamon reawakened as the acting Princess has to witness Calla's knighting."

As everyone was excused, Clair would witness Aurora using the blood pressure cuff and stethoscope in a real emergency situation, instead as part of the physical process. "Pulse rate a little fast at 88, breathing normal, I can't use smelling salts on Cinnamon Baker. She has a violent reaction to the vapors. Okay, blood pressure 125/80. We step away, give her space to breathe and just wait." She looked to Clair and her mom. "Who wrote down the vitals? I could only read them off."

Cinnamon groaned as she slowly began to recover.
 
Ethel replied to her question with a hand raised.
"I'll pass on the princess role thanks"

Clair responded to Aurora as she asked for the vitals.
"It was 88 pulse, and pressure 125 over 80"

As Cinnamon awoke Mrs. Handler would speak softly.
"Morning dear, how are you feeling?"
 
Aurora nodded, using quill to copy it onto the more official looking parchment. "Needed those numbers, thank you, Clair. Breathing, normal..." She continued to mutter information to herself regarding Cinnamon's health, finally she looked up and at Clair. "I guess I should be asking you how you feel about Calla's shocking news. She's just a noble now. You're excused if you want to see your friend get knighted. I've got your mom helping with the new princess."

Cinnamon, holding her head with both hands, shook it. "I'm dreaming. I must be. Did Avenger really...? Abdicate? As much as I always wanted to be the princess, and a people's princess like Calla... This... It feels surreal, like I'll wake up any minute and have dreamt that she named me. Who am I to be worthy of such a.. a... An honour?"

Amethyst stood at Cinnamon's bedside. "As the royal bodyguard to the princess, if you are accepting this, which, yes, Baroness Cinnamon, really happened..." A sigh, "Just get used to my constant presence. Calla, being who her hero persona is, hated me always stepping in to protect her. Unfortunately, that's my job, which I am proud to do, no matter who the princess is."

Cinnamon blinked. "Wait. So this is, like, really, really real? For real? I'M the Princess of Dunwyn, now?" She looked like she was about to faint again. Just because it was Cinnamon's dream come true, didn't mean it wasn't overwhelming. She needed to stay awake, though, to witness, as the princess, her hero's knighting, requiring her presence!
 
Clair nodded in response.
"No problem, I am happy to help, Oh umm, really? thanks, I never seen something like that before, though I don't think it will inspire any inventions it's a curious social and political construct to witness" She agreed and thanked them again before heading off to witness the knighting.

Ethel snapped her fingers.
"Hey Baker, stay up! you have duties now"
 
Aurora nodded and then looked over at Ethel with a physician's knowing smirk, as Amethyst softly chuckled and poked Mrs Handler subtly with her elbow.

"Couldn't have said it better, myself, although I would have to, under protocol, say Princess, snap to." Amethyst was also smirking, as she was mildly amused.

Whatever the case, Cinnamon did break out of the semi-swoon she had all but done. "Wait, what? Duties? What duty is it I must in the middle of court season?"

Amethyst rolled her eyes. "Her Highness, Princess Cinnamon, must bear witness to Crimson Avenger's knighting, whether or no she stays here in England. You have five minutes, Mrs Handler, can you help her dress for the occasion, I will stand guard outside the royal boutique." She pointed towards a dressing room where a gown of Dunwyn colours of blue and gold, hung waiting for Cinnamon. "And before you argue, Baker, I said help you. The gown cannot touch the floor and will have to be put on you from over your head. A princess knighting witness gown, the same as if you were knighting Calla yourself, cannot get dirty. Tradition that goes back to King Arthur's time, about 700 years ago.¹"

When they would finally get Cinnamon to the throne room to witness Calla being knighted, they would find Queen Kenna standing where King Gregor should, with Kenna holding the dubbing sword. Apparently, Calla had chosen to be among Cordonia's knights, which meant Clair would have company going to Cordonia. Clair would also see the familiar blue and gold colours of Dunwyn in the gown worn by now Princess Cinnamon Baker of Dunwyn, along with a sparkling silver banded tiara with a Sapphire in the center of the band across Cinnamon's forehead. It was official. Avenger was coming to Cordonia with The Handlers and Princess Ruby, following the end of the season. But did anyone know who Calla had chosen?

1- Actually, approximately 628 AD, technically makes it 750 years before the RPs events
 
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Mrs. Hanlder nodded as her services were offered.
"Yes, Cinnamon dear, or should I say Princess Cinnamon?" She smiled.

Ethel cleared her throat.
"Actually, it was started before King Arthur but kind of made popular by him, I would say closer to about 750 years ago" Ethel corrected.

Clair whispered to her father who was next to her.
"Looks like we will still have Avenger as a client" She stated.
"And maybe more" She whispered back cheekily, getting a confused look on CLair before their focus both shifted back to the ceremony.
 
Gregor pointed to Kenna's right side, to indicate where Cinnamon was to stand to witness Calla's knighting, with Amethyst standing directly to Cinnamon's right.

Aurora raised her eyebrows as she heard Ethel correct Amethyst's history lesson, but let it go, because she hadn't delved too much into England's history, except what was prevalent to her medical studies.

Kenna addressed those present, with Aurora just getting in in time. "You were almost late, doctor." She then addressed Calla herself. "Step forward, young lady. Cordonian knights are expected to serve and protect ALL citizens, guests and emissaries of Cordonia. They are to drop everything if the queen calls for battle. They are expected to carry at the very least, their own weight upon their shoulders or back. Your sword and/or bow, your fists, feet, and hands are to be at the royal family's service at all times," a quick glare at Ruby who hunched her shoulders, "within reason." She took a breath. "Are you willing and able to do all these things?"

"Yes, Queen Kenna." Calla nodded.

"Your service to King Gregor and Dunwyn precede you. You have done all this and more, including the bringing forth of substantial evidence against Duke Igthorne of his treachery. Have you chosen a name you wish to be known as besides your own?"

Calla took a breath herself. "Yes, Queen Kenna. After much deliberation and speaking with my warrior friends who know me as both Calla and the Crimson Avenger, Warrior Calla, The Crimson Avenger."

Gregor looked on proudly as Cinnamon made a remark that had never been uttered before and would go down in history. "Calla, you are living proof that a hero is not born, she's made. Made by the people she defends and by how much she is appreciated for her services. Godspeed in your endeavours."

Calla smiled, shooting her father a look. "Well said, Princess. I see I have chosen the right woman for my replacement. Dunwyn is in good hands."

Kenna continued the ceremony after nodding to Cinnamon, who gave the correct royal curtsey back, having seen Calla do it many times. Kenna looked to Calla and spoke, "Kneel, Squire Dunwyn."

After Calla did so, with head bowed, Kenna said, "As the Queen of Cordonia, whom you will be serving from hence forward, I dub thee Warrior Calla, The Crimson Avenger." She laid the flat part of the sword on each of Calla's shoulders. "Rise Dame Warrior. And welcome to the Cordonian Knights."

Tuxford, Sunrise, Cinnamon and Amethyst began the polite applause. Calla Lily Dunwyn was now officially a knight.

Gregor addressed her. "Dame Warrior, you also said you have already chosen? Although you are no longer under the law for princesses to be married at 18."

Calla nodded. "I would like to wait until the end of the Snowflake Ball to make it known, if it's all the same."

Kenna nodded. "Since you're MY knight, I think that is permissable. Let her have this Gregor."

Cinnamon frowned. "My 17th birthday is Christmas Day."

Gregor waved her off. "Unless you have found someone already, Cinnamon, you don't have to worry about it, just be sure you have proposed or they have proposed to you, before next Christmas."

Cinnamon gave a sigh of relief as Kenna addressed Ethel. "I believe Dominic has had enough time to think of his actions. Allow him to join the festivities, and welcome our newest knight."

Gregor would nod that the last 24 hours were enough of a warning punishment, that poor behaviour would not be tolerated.

Clair would now be free to congratulate Calla.
 
They all sat and watched the festivities with a smile, nodding along with what was spoken as they quietly observed what was likely history being made.

As Ethel was addressed, she raised an eyebrow.
"After what he did, do you think introducing him to a female knight is the right thing to do? I must say I disagree with the assessment that he is ready. His problem isn't one that a day's stay in a cell will fix. Are you sure you want to risk him doing something to ruin this day's events?" She asked hands on hips.

Clair would approach Calla.
"Congrats! Do we call you Dame Avenger now?" She asked with a smile.
 
Kenna grimaced. "We've got plenty of other female knights in Cordonia, Ethel, and if it makes you feel better, you can stay nearby and continue to keep an eye on him. It's the Christmas season, good will towards men and all."

Gregor sighed and nodded. "A drunk only stays in the sot sit for a day, on average, and he's a visitor to Dunwyn. Any longer could be taken as bordering on exactly what I am accusing Igthorne of. Unfortunately, Amethyst has her old job of bodyguard to the princess, back. Olivia is also a guest of the kingdom. Take one of my other knights with you if you're this leery of him."

Kenna said calmly, "I get it, Ethel. Believe me, I do. Check with Arden and Service. They're Cordonian physicians. If Arden says no, I will defer to his judgement. I'll already tell you now, Service will. He tried to choke her with her own stethoscope. She'll be slightly biased."

Down in the dungeon, Lieutenant Arden sighed as he looked at Ethel. "Wish we'd met under different circumstances, Ethel. I've just finished my evaluation. Near as I can figure, whatever it is, is in the mind. Counselling is all I can recommend, but there's no reason for this to be inpatient. As long as he has guards around him for the foreseeable future... Let him meet our newest knight and join the festivities. Isn't there a Christmas parade through Dunwyn tomorrow? Didn't Gregor mention that?"

Calla chuckled, pulling Clair into a hug. "You would be correct, especially since I hear you're moving to Cordonia, as well? Something about being a Great House?"

Kenna returned the sword to Gregor and went to Mrs Handler and Cinnamon. "It sounds like you know most of the protocol that has been placed on you, Cinnamon. You'll have to get used to people, even your friends, addressing you as 'Your Highness', now." She looked at Mrs Handler. "I understand you have people here in Dunwyn that you'll be continuing business with from the main continent? Let's go work out all the shipping costs. It's something that, unfortunately, you'll have to pass on to them, though usually in bulk, if enough comes over here at one time, it would amount to maybe a few gold. With you in charge of the finances, I also need to talk to you about the exchange rate between the Cordonian Royal and the English Pound. So far, the Pound is worth 125% of the Royal. Meaning it's actually cheaper to live in Cordonia, and things will cost less." This is something Clair already learned from Aurora, when she got $12.50 for winning a $10 bet.
 
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