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Colliding Worlds (BurningWillows & Greeneyed23)

'Up and about soon' turned out to be another hour and then Lairia began to stir, murmuring Reynault's name as she slowly woke. It was a half woken state, and it was obvious she was in no condition to move, let alone actually be awake. To drain the stone and herself of that much power was a feat in its own, and the fact she was alive was Amitiel and Gerry's doing. Turning her head she saw Gerry sitting there, watching over her and weakly squeezed his hand, his breath shallow.

"Tha...nk...you..." she whispered, fighting the grip of unconciousness as it tried to drag her back under, "T-Tatia?"
 
"You did it. She's back. And with the Rythert now. But we can't set her loose. Can you tell us how?"

He smiled kindly, warmed by the memory of his friend and how even now she clung to the undead lover she had so recently lost.

Rhaeghal pushed into the tent and lay his head softly on her lap and purred worriedly.
 
She smiled at the knowledge it had worked. Tatia was whole and safe. Opening her mouth to speak she began to cough, flecks of blood coming up, the overuse of her powers still affecting her. Weakly she rested a hand on Rhaegal as he lay down and looked to Gerry.

"I could...do it..." she croaked, "But...I am...not st...strong enough...to stand."

Her fingers made slow movements on her cat's big head, petting him. Rhaegal was growing like a weed, already almost the length of Lairia, and he wasn't even six months old yet.

"He can," she whispered, closing her eyes as Rhaegal lifted her head, "We've...been practising...Rhaegal can...break magic...now...with his fangs...or claws..."

With all the down time they had had, Lairia had been training and working with her little tiger cub, wanting to shape him not just into a fighter, but one able to go up against magic. Lairia wasn't even sure she'd still be alive after Ocean City, but she wanted the best for Rhaegal, and teaching him to withstand magical attacks and cut through them was sound training. He was already growing quite the hard skin, but he had excelled in her training to get him to break through magical binds. She had enchanted his teeth and claws to do so, and then let him learn and strengthen the ability. Now her little kitten could, and he would be Tatia's saving grace as Lairia felt the grips of darkness pulling her back towards unconciousness.

"I'm...sorry..." she whispered, so tired, "I want...to do...more..."
 
Gerry patted her hand. "You did wonders with Tatia. What more can we ask? now hush. And rest."

He whistled and explained to Amitiel who nodded and gently gripped Rhaeghal's collar, then lead him into the cave. "Set her free big fella."

The big cat clawed the bonds, then huffed at Amitiel, turned and returned to his own mother, dodging a snarling Ebony. Amitiel heard the snarl and moved aside as the panther cub rushed in and into the midst of the Rythert and Tatia, purring, her eyes glowering at Amitiel.

he held up his hands. "Alright im going." And he left the cave.
 
Lairia fell deeply into sleep once Rhaegal returned to her, waiting until she knew he had done it. In the cave, Tatia fell to the floor after being released, surrounded by love, holding Rythert and Ebony dear.

"I want to retire," she whispered in Rythert's ear, "I don't want to fight any more..."
 
The Rythert could not respond. it was not up to them. And they would go withTtatia anywhere she wished.

But Amitiel heard. And he reported it o Gerry, and to Sera and Elaya when they finally emerged from their cabin.
 
Three days had passed before Sera and Elaya did emerge from their little love nest. Both were brimming with energy and love, holding hands as they stepped back into the camp. In the three days Lairia had been resting, and was now able to stay awake for a few hours before needing sleep. As it was, when they arrived she was leaning on Rhaegal and speaking to Gerry, the stone back in its box and safe. Tatia had spoken very little in the three days other than to Rythert, and it was obvious the horrors she had experienced under Nicken's "care" had shook the girl to her very core. There was little life in her eyes, but she was trying, and by all accounts the sound of her retiring was no a bad idea in Sera's eyes when she saw her, wanting nothing but the best for her friend.

As they stepped foot into the camp after speaking to Amitiel Sera raised her voice, "We have an announcement everyone."

Eyes looked up as Sera turned to look at Elaya, wanting her to announce it, holding her hand hard. She loved this wolf more than anything, now it was time to announce their next step in that love.
 
Elaay grunted and moved to fold Sera into her arms. "Sera and i are going to be getting married. And I expect the lot of you at the wedding." She squeezed her lover and smiled

She then looked over at Tatia. "please come sweety. I'd really like you to sing for us. Please? You can go anywhere you want after, but it would mean alot to both of us if you were there. And even more if you sang."

gerry grunted. "Hell i'd wanna hear her sing at your wedding." He winked at Tatia. "Don't worry kid. I'll have protection. hell i might even be a were by then."

Elaya arched an eyebrow. He smirked. "What like your mother is going to just let your wedding be a simple affair?"

Elaya smirked, then tilted Sera's face up studying it. "It's up to my bride. It's our wedding not mine."

Gerry smiled, then yelped as Rhaeghal moved forward, leaving Lairia to lean on the human instead, as the cat marched up to the two women, growled, then rubbed against them in several circles before returning to his mother.

Amitiel spoke. "i would say that indicates his blessing upon the union. So now what?"

Elaya, and everyone else, looked at Sera for the answer.
 
Sera was all smiles, and the smiles from the rest made her all the happier. Looking to Tatia, she saw her eyes lit up momentarily at the thought of a wedding and the request to sing, but the life drained away again as she simply nodded.

"Give her time," Sera whispered, looking to Rythert and seeing nothing but love in their eyes for the siren, a love she knew all too well from Elaya, "They will lift her spirits, as you do with mine. We must be patient."

She could hope that she was right. For as old and wise as she was, people were not her strength. Until the group she had never been around so many at once, and being in the leader role had definitely pushed her to become more...social. It was a good thing, and it was indeed working, but sometimes there were those doubts like she had back at the ranch of whether she was doing things right or not. On this account, she believed she was.

"I would rather like to plan the wedding with you," she replied, kissing Elaya's cheek, "I do not want it to be in the hands of anyone else. But we can of course notify your - our families so that they may help in any way they can. Once we reach Ocean city."

She knew Elaya's family would be estatic. As for her's...that was not a matter she wished to discuss now. Looking at the group, she knew it was time to hit the road.

"Now we should pack and head out. We are still missing Narxis?"

"In town with Arya," Lairia replied softly, her voice strained, "Amitiel knows where."

"We can swing by and grab him," Sera smiled looking back to Elaya, "And then be on our way? Ocean City is only a week from here now. The faster we hit the road, the sooner this is all over."
 
Elaya grimaced. "You and i should get him. he might...react badly otherwise."

Gerry snickered at this.

A few hours later, Elaya sighed, then kicked open the door, having dodged behind the wall, with Sera when narxis hurled a bolt of dark energy through the open door. "SHUT THE FUCKING DOOR!"

Elaya smiled and pressed finger to Sera's lips, then entered the room.

narxi's sneer faded, and he smiled sheepishly. "Hey."

"Oh Hi. And how are you two naughty things? Why Arya such marks upon your person. You have let him ravish you."

She rolled her eyes. "Come on. Time to go. You still have a contract Narxis. And the innkeeper says he's ready to call the guards on you two. Sides. ocean city has better rooms and beds."

Narxis considered, unaware that his left hand was cupped, almost glued, to Arya's breasts. He rubbed his jaw with his right. "You promise us better accommodations?"

Elaya's eyes flickered but she continued to smile. "Royal treatment I swear it."

He grinned and turned to Arya. "Whatcha say beauty? Wanna go tear up Ocean City?"

Elaya sniffed. "make sure you clean before we go."

The bed had been a gorgeous fourposter. now it was flattened mats floating on pools of dark energy. The wood had become fuel, and she could see that the springs had been used as bonds. "And pay the innkeeper triple for damages. We don't need this kind of trouble following."

"What trouble?"

She looked up at several stains, of many colors on the ceiling, then on their matching fellows on the walls and floor. Narxis grinned. "oh...those.. ok. Hi Sera!"

Elaya moved tot eh door. "Also, we're engaged. You will attend the wedding."

"But-"

She turned, and even he flinched at the dark depths of danger in her eyes. "You. Will. Attend."

He nodded. "happy to."

Elaya left, taking Sera's arm and rejoined the others in the bar below, where Gerry was trying to get Amitiel to try a boilermaker, and had gotten Lairia something called a flamemaker. The Rythert were drinking salt water of course, and the cats were happily lapping at fresh cream.
 
Arya jumped as the door opened then grinned widely as Narxis through a bolt of dark energy, her body pinned beneath him, bound to what was left of the bed, as she had been for several hours now. Her body was indeed covered in plenty of hickies, bruises smattering her tanned skin. And that was only from today. Her others had healed, and he had made more to her pleasure, pulling cries of pleasure from her from the past three days that had been nothing short of a perfect lustful dream. If she had any doubts of whether she wanted to come with him or not, they had been dulled now by the sheer knowledge that she was not about to give this pleasure up for the world.

Seeing as the dark haired werewolf came in, Arya tried to place a name, knowing it started with E. She grinned, not embaressed in the slightest at her position, instead wondering if they had time to finish this round or not. It seemed 'not' was going to be the answer. She wiggled beneath him playfully, his hands groping her swollen breasts from all his attentions, listening to it and smirking. At least she wasn't getting roped into any wedding. As the were disappeared, alongside the flame girl Narxis called Sera, Arya tried to pull on her binds to steal a kiss but to no prevail.

"Tearing up Ocean City sounds like a treat," she moaned, relaxing into the torn bed, "But you have me all tied up here. You must do something about that if I'm to...come."

She grinned wickedly at him, as a tendril of smoke left her hand and slammed the door shut, wanting five more minutes of privacy with him to finish up and then get ready. And within that fives minutes they would, eventually making their way downstairs, Arya back in her normal black jeans and studded bra with the mesh shirt and leather jacket, still unable to hide the smatter of hickies over her body she refused to get rid of until they healed naturally. She rather liked them. She had Narxis' arm draped over her shoulder as they set foot into the bar, her emotions still under lock and key, but ready to follow her sex god, as she had called him plenty of times in the bedroom, to wherever they were set to go, wanting his promises of chaos and lust.
 
Geryr ignored the lust fileld couple as they came done. Easily.

Amitiel was laying on the floor, gagging and clutching his throat, while the cats sniffed him, and the Rythert tried to hide their laughter.

Narxis smiled at the sight, but his eyes moved back to Arya almost instantly, and he used the distraction to steal a kiss, and grinned, hissing. "When we get to Ocean City..."

The promise of more lust, and her beloved chaos danced in his eyes.

Elaya rolled her eyes, then nudged Sera. "So. Shall we?"
 
Arya grinned -something she'd been doing more of with Narxis in the past three days then most of her life- all too eager for more. Looking back at Amitiel the grin stayed, as she found the scene rather amusing herself too.

Sera nodded to Elaya's question and clapped her hands, "We shall. Everyone...we are moving out."

~

As Sera predicted, it took a week for them to travel to Ocean City, having already been partway through the continent when they left the last city. To its name, it was indeed nested against the ocean, and it was quite the sight to see. The road they walked on led towards the Eastern gate, one of three – the Northern, and Southern being the other two – and as they got closer they could see just how big the wall surrounding the city truly was. There was rarely a city these days without bordering walls, keeping the beasts out, but most only stretch maybe twenty feet tall, enough to still be able to see the roofs within. This city however had walls built so high it looked as if they were reaching into the clouds, easily several stories tall. Not even Elaya with her speed nor Sera with her flame could climb that wall and make it over, Lairia explained. After a week of travel and rest she was almost to full health, able to walk on her own without help. Sera tested the fact by pointing out she could just fly up but Lairia explained even once someone scaled the wall, there was a barrier above it, creating an invisible dome the touched all corners of the wall, truly protecting those within.

“And what of the water?” Tatia asked. She had agreed to go as far as Ocean City with them and complete the contract, but Sera and Elaya were well aware now that afterwards Tatia planned to find a home for her, Ebony, and Rythert and settle for a while. There was a small lake with tunnels beneath directly linking to Rythert’s secret home beneath the waves and they were thinking of starting there, perhaps building a small home on the lakeshore for them and Ebony, allowing them to swim and visit Rythert’s paradise at will. Her and Rythert had been speaking often about it over the week and it was the only time Tatia’s eyes lit back up with life, before her pain returned, her memories nothing but cruel hooks dragging her down. Sera knew what Tatia wanted would be best for her. And hopefully by the wedding their siren friend would be much more herself.

“The water has barriers too. No ships can dock or leave without permission,” Lairia explained as they grew close enough to now see two guards at the gate, still so small from this distance it was hard to make them out.

“Why so much protection?” Seraphina asked, a little nervous that they were going into a city that literally had its people on constant lockdown. It didn’t bode well for any hasty escapes, if they were needed.

“When we step inside you will see the Palace. Hard to miss as it takes up almost a third of the city and sits along the Northern bayside. That is where the Circle lives and conducts their business, but it also poses as a College of Magic, for those wishing to learn. The best and the brightest go there, some as young as five. Their families are allowed to live within the city or outside it as they see fit, but not within the Palace. Now you can see why they have such high protection, with such young prodigies within those walls.”

“So the whole city was built for the learning of magic?” Tatia asked.

“It started that way, yes. People built homes around the palace. Then markets. Soon more came, some seeking to learn or study on their own, others wishing to be with their own kind. Soon enough they put up this wall, and even then there was still farmland within, with their hopes to cultivate it. Instead the city grew, more coming seeking refuge behind such safe walls. Now it is one of the biggest cities on the continent, and the only one known to house more supernaturals than human.”

With the history lesson complete, they were only a mile from the gate, and in no time they were walking up, looking at the grey bricked wall in wonder, seeing how it shimmered with the magic barrier.

“Hold up,” one of the guard’s ordered as they approached, “State your intentions with Ocean City.”

“We are looking to find an audience with the Circle,” Lairia spoke, stepping past Sera to the lead of the group, “I have passage in and out of the city.”

She pulled out a rock seemingly out of thin air, perfectly circular with an odd symbol engraved in it. As she held it in her palm out to him it glowed a soft green and he nodded. Making a motion to the guard’s behind the gate to open it.

“She and her group may pass. Please be courteous within our walls,” he stated as the metal gate opened and let them pass through.”

“As I stated, one needs permission to pass in and out of the barrier,” she smiled to the group, and the rock was gone, “I got that when I was learning here for the few years I did.”

Now past the gate, they could truly see the city, and it was bolstering with life. The roads were narrow, filled with people and lined with houses and shops, each with a tree wedged between to bring more color and life to the already lively city, and all made of the same grey brick with golden-red colored roofs. As they stepped down the street they could hear music coming from the distance as someone played live in a market, and the giggle of children as they played tag in the streets. Ahead the street curved up in a small hill, and as they reached it crest the sight of the Palace came into view.

It was magnificent. The bricks were a pale gold color, but from the group's far position it looked cream, and the roofs of the many towers were the same golden-red as the rest. It was an enormous Palace, as Lairia had stated, stretching out along the beach from the Northern end of the city to the middle point where the docks started. Even from here they could see the intricate architect work on the Palace, the tall windows and balconies, the arches and spires. And in the very middle rising high above the rest was a dome-like roof in the same color as the others yet engraved with a beautiful mosaic, the faint outline of it able to see from the streets. The Palace even had its own long dock stretching into the harbor, although no boats were docked there. It was a Palace fit for royalty, and yet no royalty lived inside and ever would. Waves crashed along the beach side front of the Palace and the air smelt like salt and fish. Looking over, Lairia could see Tatia relaxing and smiling, feeling a little more at peace here.

“C’mon, we still must walk all the way to the Palace,” Lairia prompted and Sera nodded, letting the sorceress lead the group, “We will be staying there for the night. The Circle always grants its high respected guests accommodations, and I’m sure most of you apply. I do as well…at least for now…”

She wished the last bit of her sentence and fell quiet, holding Rey’s gem for strength again. Perhaps she would be seeing him soon…the thought was both depressing and hopeful.
 
Elaya sighed upon entering the city. She had been touched by Lairia's history lesson, though she knew she did not need it. She had been here many times.

She sniffed and sighed again. And she still didn't like it.

She noted Lairia's halting speech though and released Sera's hand, with a look to assure her lover she would be right back, and moved up beside Lairia. She gently took the woman's free hand. "Rey doesn't want you to join him until the right time Lairia. Trust me on that." She smiled and squeezed her hand. "He was never that selfish." She winked, then drew away, having slipped a small chocolate treat into Lairia's hand as she moved away.

Elaya stood in place, waiting to fall back into step with Sera when suddenly several were's rushed toward her. She sighed yet again, but made a gesture with her hand to sooth her companions as the weres did not attack but fell onto their faces before her. "Your Grace! You honor us and this city with your presence."

Elaya closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and her posture shifted. She always stood straight, but still held herself curled into a defensive manner. Now she stood straight, tall and regal. She put her hands into her pockets, and the left came out with a silver ring with a dark rounded amethyst crowning it, ringed with diamond studs, and on the right was a two finger ring which bore the mark of the Metuzi. The weres scrambled forward and kissed both rings, still on their knees before her.

She cupped their faces, and kissed their foreheads, speaking soft words meant only for their ears. When all had greeted her she spoke again. "Rise my children. Honor me with your presence. Show me your beautiful city."

They rose and bowed, then noted the others. They bowed again and she smiled. "These are my friends. Lady Lairia, High Sorceress and Mage of the Circle."

They bowed, and made signs of respect commonly given to those of the circle.

"Ser Gerald of the Ice Plains, ward and guardian of Our Person." They bowed to Gerry, in awe of him. Gerry smirked noting that Elaya had dropped her slang, and her diction had become clear and sharp and her voice had none of her growl or rapidity. She said each word as if polishing it first.

"The Rythert, Guardians of the Deep. And their lady, Princess Tatiana of Atlantis." They knelt before Tatia, and pledged their eternal protection to her, swearing to die in her service rather to betray or endanger her.

"Lord Amitiel of the Court of Heaven." They bowed to the angel, praising his God.

"Prince Narxis of the Fire Unending. And Lady Arya of the Lake of Fire." They bowed to both, respectfully and courteously, showing no fear.

"Lady Ebony, and Master Rhaeghal. Companions of great value." The cats purred as the weres nuzzled and welcomed them.

"And our leader, Lady Seraphina. Phoenix of the Skies. My fiancee."

They froze at this, then knelt before Seraphina as well, doing her great honor and homage. Elaya gave them time to give proper respect, then spoke again. "Rise my children. We must go to the Palace of the Circle."

Instantly the were's surrounded them, and escorted them toward the Palace, their eyes on guard. And more coming every moment. By the time they had reached the Palace gates, more than a thousand, with more still coming had formed a protective circle about the group. Wolves, bears, cats, eagles, snakes, and every other sort of creature imaginable. All sort to protect and honor them.

At the gate, Elaya gently touched Lairia's hand silencing her as she stepped forward. Despite her rather dirty clothing, she carried herself with such grace, dignity, and undeniable presence, the guards snapped to attention even before they recognized her, which they did and knelt quickly.

Elaya smiled. "Rise good guardians. We have come as escort to Lady Lairia. We ask to presume upon your hospitality for a time, but first I must ask to meet with the great Circle of Mages themselves in private. After we have had time to wash and present ourselves properly of course."

As she spoke, a silver circlet, garnished with stones of every color and of immense size, settled onto her brow. Each stone was held in place by settings of wolf fangs, and the were's murmured about "The Crown of Fangs!" Only the Crown Prince or Princess of the Metuzi could wear the item. And it fit Elaya as perfectly as it should.

She smiled as the guards noted the crown as well, then smiled further when their Captain came out to see the disturbance. "Captain! So good to see you again. You are well?"

The Captain nodded, a bit startled. Elaya made her request again. "I trust our request do not present too arduous an imposition?"

Amitiel, the Rythert, and even Narxis were staring at Elaya. They had never seen her in princess mode. Only Gerry was entirely calm and relaxed. And for some reason he was also standing straighter, and he also had a ring on his finger that none of them had seen before. It was silver as well, and marked with the Metuzi symbol.

The Court of the Metuzi had come to Ocean City, hidden behind the dusty clothing of a pack of sellswords. Even Tatia's presence could not compare to that, and Lairia's return seemed a trifle at the moment.

The guard looked at the crowd, and chanced a smile. "Do you seek to battle with the Circle Your Grace?"

She laughed. Not her usual hearty laugh, but a soft trilling laugh that showed true amusement but maintained her immense dignity. "No my Lord Captain. These kind weres simply escorted us to your care. In fact-"

She turned to the weres. "My children you have done us great honor. And you humble me with your concern. I shall be eternally grateful. But now i think it is time to return to your homes. Thank you so very much for your kind attentions. I am far from worthy."

They moaned at this, but also obeyed instantly, bowing, many stopping to kiss her rings, and all of them making signs of respect, especially to Sera, before they left. They were all gone in mere moments. Elaya turned back to the Captan. "My apologies. But even a thousand weres could not possibly endanger the defenses of the Circle." She smiled warmly and the Captain laughed.

"True Your Grace. I have sent a messenger to the Circle. While we wait, what is this I hear about you being engaged?"

Elaya smiled and reached back, her hand pressing against Sera's back, and drew her forward. "This is the leader of our group, Lady Seraphina. My fiancee."

The Captain bowed. "A Phoenix. Truly an honor. And quite beautiful i must say. Congratulations to you both." She did not try to touch Sera, nor had she touched Elaya, though she did note that Gerry had moved up to Lairia's other side in a protective stance. The Captain did not know Gerry, but knew what he was. She also noted that Gerry did not show any hostility toward her or her guards, but seemed to be trying to support Lairia herself.

The Captain looked at the others, knowing instantly what Amitiel and Narxis were, but mystified at the others, especially Tatia. She did not ask however.

Only the weres knew, and they would die rather tell her secret, and they would die to protect her.

In fact several merfolken who had been watching for this very group died suddenly and violently while the group waited to be welcomed by the Circle. Their bodies would never be found, and those there in an official capacity gained watchers, and their messages never reached the sea. Tatia's presence became a secret, a black hole within a city of secrets.

The Captain looked back at Elaya, then at Seraphina. "She's the leader Your Grace?"

"And a supremely capable one good Captain. An exceptional fighter and general, a good listener, skilled at negotiation and diplomacy, and truly just and fair."

The Captain noted the others nodding, then looked back at Elaya. "And your fiancee?"

Elaya smiled. "how could I not love someone so gentle, kind, loving, sweet, beautiful and wonderful." She squeezed Sera to her side, her eyes glowing in the way only Sera could forge. She was playing the grand game, but she was also sincere.

The Captain nodded, then looked to Sera. "My Lady...i envy you Your Champion. She has no equal."

Elaya's more normal cold smile made a quick appearance. The Captain missed it. Elaya knew Sera would not. She squeezed her lover. "Nor does Seraphina." She still spoke in the clear precise diction she had risen to, but she also still caressed Sera's name as always.
 
Lairia turned at the touch of Elaya's hand and smiled, although it seemed rather forced. She still worried that this would be her end. Thinking over that, when the were's approached she remained calm. There was few conflicts within the city walls, and the laws demanded no bloodshed, so Lairia knew they would not be hurt.

Sera on the other hand backed up a step as the were's dropped to her feet, not used to this display, or what came next from Elaya. She had to cup a hand over her mouth to hide the smile forming, seeing Elaya acting so...different. It wasn't a bad thing, but Sera found it amusing. After all these years of fighting beside her, hearing her growl and snap and with that drawl in her voice, Sera had grown to love the wild mercenary she was to marry now. And even knowing she was a princess, seeing her actually act like one felt surreal.

A giggle escaped as they started walking and she tried to hide it, her eyes dancing as she took Elaya's hand and leaned over, whispering with laughter in her voice, "You forgot Living Flame. Oh and beautiful redhead."

She was not worried about being exposed as a Phoenix...to them. Over the past week, Elaya had begun to explain more of the tradition and ways of her people to Sera. Not all of them, but a few, to put the Phoenix at ease as she was marrying in to this pack. One of which was the Metuzi would know of what she was, but would not expose her. This eased Sera's worries, especially walking into a city so full of magic. And Elaya knew keeping Sera's true nature a secret was something Sera wanted and needed. To be around so many magic-users and flaunting her unique rarity was asking for trouble. Lairia had even given Sera a necklace to wear within the city, embued with magic that would make it seem that she was simply a minor fire half-demon, not a fully fledged Phoenix. It had worked so far in passing the barrier, but Lairia had warned there was another magical wall stepping into the Palace that would detect as well. The necklace would work on both, so long as Sera did not take it off.

Thinking about her own people and the risks of being in the city, Sera knew there was maybe ten Phoenix's left on the continent, unless a new one had been born recently without her knowledge. The number had dwindled so low since the Crush, do to sorcerers and Hunters. When the Crush happened there had been easily thirty, maybe forty of them. They were truly a rare and dying species.

She winked and kissed Elaya's cheek, feeling calm and relaxed next to her. It did not last all that long though, as the crowd grew and the group began walking more closely knit. Sera could feel herself starting to get anxious and gripping Elaya's hand harder. Crowds were not her thing.

As for the others in the group, Lairia was also a tad nervous. This much of a crowd would warrant attention, both of the city and the Circle. She had wanted to do this quietly, but that was no longer an option, and she knew her chances had just grown more dire. The Circle would force a public trial once she came clean, and the sway of the public could greatly ruin her chances. She had killed innocents in Versailles, and she was sure there would be a fair number wanting her head for it.

Arya was also a tad on the anxious side, although she didn't feel the emotion, as much as the need to just be out of such a large crowd. She too had given the group warning that they were not to tell her secrets to any. Not just in the city, but truly any. Death hounds were a thing in Hell, yes, but Arya was one-of-a-kind. There was no other shifter hound like her. Baal and Lucifer had gone to great lengths to hide her too, stripping her of any stench - death hounds often smelt like death and brimstone - and lecturing her on the importance of stealth. Only those finding death knew of her nature, within the last seconds of her life. Not even Heaven, nor the Princes of Hell knew of her. Octavia had been the first to learn, and had almost died. Now this group did too, after the fall of Baal, and Arya wanted to keep it from reaching any other ears. To call attention to herself could very easily start a war in Hell, if the princes learned of Lucifer's secret assassin on Earth.

At some point within the city walls she had taken Narxis' hand without realizing and was holding now, whether just to feel close to him or the support of knowing he was there. Her emotions were still under lock and key, but his promises of chaos and lust had kept her at his side, and he had more than delivered. For the past three nights they had had to sleep away from the group after causing too much noise each night for the first four. And there had been several bandit parties they had stumbled upon and Narxis had allowed her to feast. Sated in both blood and sex, the death hound had happily stayed at his side, and while she didn't know it now, a deep part of her was growing more and more fond of him.

~

When they reached the gate built into the much smaller wall surrounding the Palace, they all stopped and it was Elaya who stepped forward. Sera moved to Tatia's side, seeing that the siren looked a tad overwhelmed too. Those were's who had bowed to her must have surprised her a bit, and the two girls stood side by side now, drawing comfort off one another as friends, both overwhelmed by Elaya's royalty. Lairia stood with Gerry next to them, looking slightly lost in her own mind, and worried about...well everything. And Arya looked calm next to Narxis, but the death hound had never not looked anything but. If she was speaking the truth over the week, Arya was indeed void of emotion as it were, and so none of this was fazing her. Sera wasn't sure how one could go without such a thing, but Narxis seemed to be well and truly happy with Arya at his side, and if it was bringing the demon some good will, then Sera would allow the odd woman to stay. For now.

As Elaya spoke, she swept up Sera and suddenly the redhead was at the forefront, a little stunned and scared to speak. Not just because they were standing with a crowd at their backs in front of a terribly large palace, but because this Captain had figured Seraphina's nature out so quickly and it terrified the Phoenix. Even Elaya's royalty, which was shining through and Sera found it both humbling and beautiful, as well as awing, was still not enough to calm the redhead. As the conversation continued on about Sera she could feel her body heating up, going into defense as her eyes wandered over the nearby guards, wondering if they overheard, then looking around at the houses closest to them, wondering who might be watching. It was clear Sera was stressing, and she stiffened when the guard spoke directly to her, her temperature rising enough it made her skin start to glow. If anyone besides Elaya was to touch her now they would surely burn.

To Sera's luck Elaya responded first and Sera was thankful she did. Her compliment was soothing, but not enough and Sera wished desperately she could speak to Elaya now without any listening ears, needing the comforting words from her fiancee that she would be fine and safe, and no one would come after her.
 
The Captain studied the couple before them, looked back at her guards, then smiled. "Your secret is safe with me. As a favor to the unbroken claw."

She stepped away, and Elaya smiled and kissed Sera's cheek. "All is well my love. and my beautiful redhead. That's my name for you. I'm not sharing it with anyone else."

She kissed Sera's lips now, stroking her hair, and sighed. She examined the others, and smirked seeing how Narxis and Arya were clearing itching to get inside. She'd get someone to soundproof their room to an extra degree.

She could tell that Sera would need some confidence boosts. She kissed the Phoenix again, squinted, then coughed, and a burnt golden circlet settled onto her lover's head. It had seven sunstones gripped in eagle claws over her brow. Elaya smiled and nodded. "much better. My Princess. And no it won't melt. Firemetal."

she kissed her lover again.

Amitiel leaned forward. "how did you do that?"

"Didn't. had this made when me an my beauty here started going out." She bit the tip of her tongue to tease Sera s her eyes gleamed. "Now we need the status so while it's early, I can still legally put it on her." She kissed her lover once again and whispered. "To mark her as mine."
 
Seraphina wasn't relaxing, as it was only Elaya's reassurances she could trust. Her lover knew the price if this guard sold Sera out. If Elaya was calm, so Sera should be. Her head began to die as she kissed Elaya, wanting out of the lime light now and somewhere more quiet. All this attention was making her oddly nauseous, and she wasn't too fond of the idea of puking in the rose garden she could see inside the gate. In fact as the gate opened and they let them step past while waiting to be received, they stepped into a rather large garden circling the palace, full of varieties of plants, herbal ingredients and flowers, and trees. The rest of the group fanned out a bit to breath in the clean air and look at the beauty of it, while Elaya caught Sera's attention with the small circlet that was rather pretty.

"I'm no princess though Elaya," she looked up, watching as Elaya set the thing on her head, "Even if it is a beautful thing, it's not something I deserve."

She looked to Amitiel as he stepped up and smiled at Elaya's response, calming more as he stomach settled and she raised an eyebrow, "So you've had this planned my wolf? Why? i really do not need this. All I need is you."

She pulled her into a long kiss then sighed, her temperature returned to normal, "Firemetal, hm? Never heard of it. Probably a fancy word for that metal I found within volcanos. And I had thought I was the only one who knew about it."

She grinned and winked, pulling Elaya's hand up to kiss the ring before she kissed her, "I will only wear it because you wish me to. But only when you ask."

"Sorry for the wait," a voice cut through their private chat as a rather beautiful young girl -maybe sixteen at most- hurried out of the large front doors, dressed in a brown dress with a low collar and a golden rope belt, the outfit rather plain. Her hair stood out more, being a vibrant purple alike her eyes, and she pulled her sleeves back as she spread her arms wide and the gate to the city closed.

"My master sends his apologies and condolences to not receiving you Princess Elaya," she curtseyed and she neared then stood, folding her arms within her large arm sleeves, "He is currently teaching a class of six year old's how to wield fire. You can understand the hazards of leaving them he might face. He, and the rest of the Circle, will see you for lunch though, but they have asked me to bring you to your accommodations for the night. We heard of your group's arrival. Sister Lairia, I have heard much about you. You honor us with your return."

Lairia smiled and bowed her head in time with the girl, "Sister. The words are kind, but there are many who have done much better."

She spread her hands again and motioned towards the door, "My name is Stephanae, for those of you not members of the college. I am the apprentice to the Master Mage here, my tutor, Hemlick."

"Master Hemlick is still here?" Lairia smiled, hiding her uneasiness within her as she pulled out a polite smile, "He was one of my teachers when I studied here."

"He remembers," she smiled as two guards reopened the front door. The group and Stephanae stepped into a massive entrance room, complete with a large sweeping staircase leading up to the next floor. Inside the walls were all wooden and covered in decor, full of different paintings of scholars, important figures, and art. The floor was a clean marble the shone and the stairs had a dark almost black rug hugging them up to the second floor where it looked much the same. Stephanae lead the way up the stairs and to the left down a large corridor. As they walked they passed by a fair number of other residents, all wearing the same robes Stephanae was, with different colored belts.

"The belts signify the skill," Lairia explained, "You began with a white belt to signify purity and new beginnings. As you learn and craft your art, your color changes, not just by your knowledge, but also by what path you take. As a sorceress I eventually earned my red belt, and when I studied more of the warlock arts, I was given a blue one as well, and told to wear both. Green are for studying mages..."

They past two robed men with green roped belts and continued on, Lairia still speaking, "And gold is for the apprentices. Black is for the Circle, although they also do not wear the robes, but their own choice of clothing."

Stephanae nodded in agreeance, "We have also recently added a purple belt, for those studying elemental arts under the guidance of our Metuzi Circle members. Last year we gained our first class of were children to study, it was quite the event. You may have noticed the influx of were's within the city, and those are the families of the children we teach. We felt it only fair to offer our knowledge to them as equally as the rest."

She smiled at Elaya, hoping this would please her as they passed another corridor.

"Now, for Palace rules," she stated, leading the group. Elaya and Sera walked directly behind her, alongside Gerry and Lairia with Tatia, Rythert, and Amitiel behind them. Narxis and Arya took up the back, but could hear everything clearly. "City rules of course still apply. Stealing and murder have, as always been forbidden, and those who break the law will find themselves within the city dungeon within seconds. Fighting is frowned upon, and any large conflicts are to be settled by trial in front of the Circle. Our other rules are many but small, and I'm sure sister Lairia can catch you up on them. For the Palace our rules are simple. No using magic for anything other than the intent to learn. We do not use magic for personal gain, or to cheat, deceive, or fight. We serve meals in our dining hall for all at 8 am, noon, and 5 pm. We do not serve food within the rooms, as this is not a hotel. Classes are not to be interrupted, and the library is free to all, but the books within are not to leave Palace walls. Furthermore, as this is a college with students from the age of five to the age of sixty, we have a strict rule on accommodations. You will each find your own rooms down this hall here, men, yours are to the right with ensuite bathrooms, women to the left with the same.

Sera balked, seeing that the doors had small golden plaques on each with a name on them, obviously done by magic to assign the rooms. She immediately noticed that one door had Elaya's name, the next was Tatia's, then Lairia's, then Arya's...and then her's.

"There is a mistake," Sera spoke, pointing at the door's, "Elaya and I will be staying in the same room."

Stephanae blushed and looked down, "I apologize Princess Elaya and her companion, but that would be against college rules. Those is the college or celibate, by oath, until their schooling is finished. We do not make rooms for more than one, and we do not encourage the breaking of our oaths."

Lairia nodded, giving Sera and Elaya a wide berth though, knowing this wouldn't impress them. She didn't even dare to look at Arya or Narxis, knowing the death hound would be doing nothing short but glaring angrily at this news.

"I studied here for a decade and was celibate for the whole," Lairia explained, "It is our way to give ourselves ultimately to knowledge and studies. Those with families who wish to study can, but they must live in the city and not within the Palace."

Stephanae moved away to give the group a minute of space, unlocking the doors as she went. Lairia lowered her voice, "I apologize for not warning you earlier, I was not sure if this rule would stand in your presence Elaya, but if it is, it was the Circle's decision. We can always find accommodations outside the Palace but...it may look rude..."

...And hurt my chances all the more...Lairia thought but didn't say, looking nervously between Sera and Elaya.
 
Elaya sensed Lairia's worry and took her hand, then spoke aloud, loud enough for Stephanae to hear. "We will enjoy the Palace's hospitality."

She squeezed Lairia's hand then released it to look at Sera. She lowered her voice. "We are here to protect her. What else can we do?"

She cupped Sera's cheek, and slowly smiled. "We aren't students...." Her eyes flashed, curious if Sera would be amenable to the idea.

She did not notice that Narxis had gone to his door and dragged Arya in after him, locking and sealing the door.

Amitiel had and he carefully put some gear into Arya's marked room, rumpled the bed, then exited locking the door behind him before Stephanae could see.
 
Lairia mouthed her thank you silently and pulled Stephanae away to speak on when lunch would be while the others found thier rooms. Rythert's room was on the males side for some reason but Tatia brought them into her room with Ebony keeping the door opened. They may not be allowed to sleep together but they could sit and chat while they waited. Meanwhile Arya was all grins as she snuck in with Narxis and the group all knew it be a while before either of them appeared.

Sera meanwhile was not too happy about the arrangements but she caught Elayas drift and smiled. She could break a few rules, as long as they weren't caught.

With Stephanae leaving Lairia approached them and spoke, "lunch is in an hour, but they request only to see the three of us. Our group can remain behind."
 
Elaya smiled back at her lover, then growled. "Gerry is in charge while we are away."

She peeked into tatia's room. "tatia sweety i want you to rest alright? Enjoy your Rythert and Ebony. Maybe go look at the gardens. But stay within the palace at all times please?"

The Rythert smiled and hugged their Princess, and Ebony huffed as she lay her head on Tatia's lap.

Elaya pointed at Rhaeghal. "He comes with us." She looked at Lairia, making it clear it was not a request. She wanted the big cat near. He had special dispensation as lairia's pet/companion. And he could comfort her when Elaya could not.

She squatted, somehow doing that neatly rubbed his ears. "You wanan stay with mama Lairia anyway don't you big fella?"

His tail lashed as he purred.

"Good boy." She kissed his nose, then sighed. "now. Sera come with me. We need to clean up. Rhaeghal keep your mother behaved."

He looked up at Lairia, then rubbed against her hip, then circled her protectively. Elaya called over her shoulder as she lead Sera toward the baths. "You could come along Lairia. it's been a while since you've been able to dress up either."

Rhaeghal purred at the idea.

Elaya took Sera to a large chamber where students and members of all ages bathed. It also included a small salon. Elaya helped Sera into a chair, kissed her, and smiled. "Also my love. We need to get ready. We have much to do."

She first removed their crowns, hiding them somewhere. Then she carefully washed Sera's hair, then brushed it out. She did not style it, but left it wet and flat. She then scrubbed her own hair, also leaving it wet and flat, then took Sera's hand. "The baths have a habit of...overcleansing." She lead her lover deeper into the chamber, positioned her over a grate, and herself beneath another, shut the door, then waited. Before Sera could ask what was going on, she was bathed in a wall of fire that removed every stitch of clothing, and also washed her 'clean' of every speck of dirt, and did a number of other interesting things.

When the wall fo flame fell she saw that Elaya had also been stripped and washed, though with all the elements, not just fire. When her skin was gleaming clean she smiled. "Much better." Her hair was still flat, but now entirely dry. She took Sera's hands and kissed each and smiled. "Mmm love that smell." She leaned in and kissed Sera. "You."

She giggled, then helped Sera into a gorgous red, fireproof, kimono, with pink flowers and gilding everywhere. She herself puleld on a black one with light blue flowers and silver lining. She took her lovers arm and hand and lead her to the salon area again. She waved away the attendants and sealed them in. "Not sharing you." She put Sera into the chair, made sure Sera was comfortable, and even turned on the massager, then sat at Sera's feet, kissed her knees, then gave her love a pedicure. She was quick but very gentle, and soon Sera had fire red toenails. And many kisses to her knees.

Elaya then sat on Sera's lap as she first manicured Sera's left hand, then turned to do her right. She giggled again, kissing Sera's palms, all the while humming happily. She then did Sera's lashes, and even put on a dark burning red lipstick on her Phoenix. She giggled again. "Have to say it. You look hot babe."

She kissed the Phoenix, then stood and fixed her hair, into the exact same style as their seemingly so long ago dinner date. She then put the woman's circlet back on and smiled. "Lovely. And i do wish you to wear it my love. You are my Princess. And you will be everyone's Princess when you marry me." She kissed Sera's neck, then nibbled softly. "Alright. you stay there. My turn."

Elaya cheated on herself. She used the magical aids, and her nails were done, coming out dark blue with light blue french tips, with single slashes of purple through each nail. She smiled and let the aids help her braid her hair around her own circlet, thus sealing it into place then covering the back with the long flowing locks. She refused eyeshadow, even batting away the thing as it tried to apply makeup to her face while she did her eyelashes. She then applied a dark purple lipstick, smiled at herself and giggled.

"Wonderful. Now one of the rules the girls didn't mention is that modesty is expected. Even i can't break that rule. So..." She sighed and pressed a pad. She and Sera were put into boring functional underwear, and comfortable and very fine, yet layered robes that covered them from neck to ankle.

Elaya sighed again, then helped Sera into open sandals, while she chose to go barefoot. "The clothing and shoes are fireproof, but the carpets and some of the wood isn't my lovely flame. Now. I'm hungry. Shall we go?" She bit her lower lip, watching Sera, hoping she was pleased with her appearance and Elaya rather forceful behvaiour.
 
Sera simply sat back and relaxed once they got there, following Elaya's guidance without pause. No one was bothering them and it made her happy.

~

Lairia shook her head, letting them go as she simply bathed in her own room and dressed in a tailored blue dress that flowed around her like her many others. It wasn't low collared though like a few she owned, sitting higher on her collarbone and showing a little more of her shoulders. It reached to her feet where she doned on plain sandals before braiding her hair back and putting her jewelry back on. Before she stepped out she added a small jewel to Rhaegal's forehead, black in color, with the City's emblem on it. Then the two were off. They found Sera and Elaya stepping into the corridor just in time and Sera looked like she was in a dream state, a goofy grin on her face.

"There you are," Lairia smiled, looking at their outfits, then at hers, "Is that all they offered you my friends?"

With a snap of her fingers their robes pulled in until they were snug but not tight on their bodies. Elaya's turned purple and Sera's turned red, making them look much more like modest dresses.

"You both look great," she added with a grin, "Shall we?"
 
Elaya poked Lairia. "Yes it was all they offered. And I haven't had time to get a seamtress in. you look nice. Feeling alright?"

She was ecstatic that Sera was pleased with her work, and not at all offended by Lairia's touch at the end.

Though she was barefoot, even Rhaeghal made more noise than she did. She kept tweaking his tail, but after so long with her he found this fun instead of irritating, and of course she was his hunting teacher.


But the game had to end as they reached the dining room. Elaya drew herself up again and her face settled. She squeezed Sera's hand, then lead her inside, walking next to Lairia.

The first two she saw were Pitr, and Hagath. Hagath was a stunningly handsome man, with gorgeous snow white hair that fell below his simple black belt, his clothing just a simple long tunic and breeches, revealing his powerful arms and deeply tanned skin. He came forward first and knelt, kissing her fingers, then bowed to Sera, but did not seek to touch her. He rose and with a deep rumbling voice said. "Aunt Elaya. you look magnificent." And hugged her, kissing her cheek. She returned the hug, and the kiss, then gestured to Sera. "This is my Seraphina."

He smiled. "A true beauty Aunty. Congratulations."

"Thank you little claw."

He grinned and moved aside.

Pitr was...different. She was beautiful. Achingly so. But odd. She was entirely bald, she didn;t even have eyebrows or eyelashes, and her face had a line of blue flame scars running from her left ear across her face to her right shoulder at a gently sloping angle, save for one spike that slashed up across her left eye and onto the brow above it. Her left eye was a pale gold, while the right was poison green. She was pale as milk, and rail thin, but she simply thrummed with power. She wore a golden gown, much like Lairia's, that was cinched at the waist with her own black belt. but her tail, bright sunset orange and pink, stuck out from behind, making the image, seem not quite right.

She did not walked forward. She actually floated several inches above the ground. However she did kneel before Elaya, then rose and hugged the werewolf, then drew back a bit, still holding her princess. She spoke, her voice a rasping whisper. "Greetings sister. You look well."

Elaya smiled and kissed her cheek. "And you my dear. I see your fur has regrown."

Pitr nodded, then turned to Sera. "Thank you. I have never seen my beloved sister so happy."

Elaya smiled and turned to Sera. "Sera my love meet Pitr. My oldest baby sister. And Hagath's mother."

Elaya then turned to Lairia, "And my friend Lairia. Lairia this is Pitr Fire-fangs, my baby sister, and her son, Hagath Spell-Wolf. I am sure you know their ranks even better than i do."

Hagath bowed to Lairia, and even reached out to Rhaeghal. The tiger cocked his head and sniffed, then let the newcomer stroke his fur. "He's quite handsome. A good companion."

Pitr moved forward and her son stepped aside without turning. She also patted the tiger's head, but less affectionately, instead gently pushing him aside as she looked into Lairia's eyes. "Do not fear my child."

She gazed deep into Lairia's very being, and Lairia was struck with certain knowledge. Pitr was old. Very very old. Which meant Elaya had to be as well. And Pitr was powerful. Far more than even the circle knew.

She did not blink, nor make any sign, then she smiled. "Welcome Lairia. Welcome and thrice said welcome." Her smile, like her, was cold and somewhat thin, but it also did ease the tension.

Hagath had moved over to Elaya and Sera, and now escorted them to their places at the table. He and his mother were the only members of the circle in the room yet. They had come early to greet Elaya.

Elaya paused at the table, and sniffed, then smiled. "My nephew you spoil me."

He grinned. "Not at all Your Grace." He could sense the others approaching.

Elaya sighed happily. "Jasmine...sage... lavender, and....oh you naughty boy. You have beens tealing your grandmother's frost orchids again."

He grinned and he was a little boy in a old man's body. "Yes Aunty."

She laughed. "Thank you Hagath they smell divine. What is the seating order?"

"You will have this place, next to Lady-" Elaya coughed and he corrected himself "Princess Seraphina of course." He turned to Seraphina. "Everything has been carefully flame proofed Your Grace. And we have fire dishes just for you."

Pitr pointed at a long couch and drew it over to where Lairia would sit. "For your companion. A king such as himself will not be committed to the floor like some beast."

Elaya smiled at this, then growled as her stomach gave a loud rumble. Hagath smiled. "We got the kitchens to prepare some delights from home Your Grace. Mother said it has been some time since you were home last."

Elaya nodded. "True enough. In time to meet your most recent batch of aunts and uncles, along with your cousins."

Hagath considered. "That was nine years ago Your Grace."

She nodded. "So it was." Her eyes clouded a bit and he gulped. "i trust all is well between yourself and Her Majesty?"

"Of course. But there are other matters that trouble me."

He caught the rebuke and nodded. "Their Majesties came down for our last graduation. Several of the pack have excelled within the school Your Grace."

She nodded, not surprised. In fact she knew, but not even Pitr could catch that from her face. Elaya figured Sera would see it, somehow, but to all else, Elaya's face was empty save for a warm smile.

"How goes your teaching Hagath?"

He smiled. "Quite well your grace. The students have some trouble with the moon magics and other seasonal spells, but they are delightful and so eager and curious. The teenagers can be somewhat problematic, so wild, but they learn quickly."

"No complaints?"

"Well....yes Your Grace. We lost our one were-elephant recently. She's fine but she went home to deal with some trouble. We've been very concerned. Perhaps you might speak to the Granoth?"

She sighed but nodded. "Very well. It has been some time since I met with the Long-Tusks. Is that all?"

"The only major one Your Grace. Everything else is simple. Students setting their books aflame, pranking one another, sneaking off to kiss, such matters that happen in school. Nothing you need concern yourself with." He was not fawning, but he did ensure never to allow him to be taller than her, and he always waited several seconds before answering her. His eyes shone with love for his aunt and Princess, and it was clear that he was possessed of a dominant personality, but before Elaya he submitted without trouble or complaint.

So too did Pitr. Both of them were titans of magic, known for their skills and abilities, and feared justly for it. But it was clear they would obey any command Elaya gave.

She smiled. "Have any favorite students nephew?"

"Oh many Your Grace."

"How many are weres?"

"Only three Your Grace. And only one Metuzi. And he is not of our bloodline. It's Lady Nara's youngest son. He's actually struggling with the magic, but he has such a mind Your Grace. Quick and clever. Already showing great ability toward becoming a mystic scholar. And only 8 years old."

"Would I be able to meet him?"

"Of course Your Grace. Though after dinner." He tensed at the denial, though not with fear. it was more as if he was upset with himself for having to tell her no.

Elaya laughed. "That's fine. i would not wish to interrupt his studies for just me. What about your others students."

He smiled and began to fill her in on their abilities and progress. They were gifted mages, wizrds, witches, elementals, spell weavers, mystics, and all else that the Circle produced. One girl had learned to open Hellgates by accident, along with other highly advanced magics and she was only 9. One young man had proven unable to use spells, but had a gift for telepathy, telekenisis, and other mental abilities that Hagath could scarce beleieve. And on it went. Quickly, but fully. When he had finished she laughed again. "Sounds like quite a grouping. You should be proud. You've done well nephew. What of you sister?"

Hagath bowed and withdrew to his own place, sipping some water. Elaya had noted that they still ahve six minutes left in their hour.

Pitr, a Princess in her own right of course, did not presume, and also supplied her sister with the appropropiate honorific. As well as to Sera. "My students need more time. I have many who do quite well, but elemental magic is much more...focused. Either you master it, or it falls. Such as yours Your Grace."

Elaya smiled. "True sister. i have only my fire left. And very little at that. But it went to a good cause." Her eyes moved to Sera and she smiled her Sera smile. Pitr nodded softly, giving them a moment. Like her son she gave Elaya the first right of speech, and all respect. Elaya returned the respect in everything of course, but it was even more clear, even with her own sister, who was the dominant alpha. Elaya.

Elaya reached up and touched her own brow. "Does it still itch little one?"

Pitr shook her head. "Not in this form. When i shift yes, but only in the were form."

Elaya nodded and squeezed Elaya's hand. "When Pitr was three she shifted and got very angry at our older brothers. They were picking on me actually. Or so she thought. Anyway she charged them and her fangs blazed into flames. she panicked and lost control as it was the first time, and it burnt her as you see, because she was so scared she tried to shift back. But she healed nicely and became the greatest elemental warrior in our pack."

Pitr curtsied. "You flatter me Your Grace."

"No. i speak the truth. And I was chasing them Pitr."

"It looked otherwise."

"That was because I had caught them and they were ganging up on me."

Pitr opened her hands. "You and your little mates were always...odd."

Elaya grunted then laughed. She spoke to Sera while watching her sister's face. "I and my three elder brothers were born of our mother's very first litter. I was already full grown when Pitr and her litter were born. But Pitr was always the defender. The seeker of justice."

Pitr curtsied. "Just following in the path of my Princess and sister."

Elaya chuckled. "Now who is flattering?"

Pitr just smiled then sniffed. "Ahh. They are nearly here." She curtsied to Elaya and Sera, then to Lairia before moving to her own place.

Elaya squeezed Sera's hand, and caught Lairia's eye and winked. Then her stomach gave another rumble and she had to mask a small smirk. She could hear the other members of the Circle coming as well. She leaned over to Sera's ear and spoke softly. "How are you feeling babe?" Her eyes continued Sera's glow, and she wore Sera's smile again. They appeared and vanished so quickly and only for her beautiful redhead.
 
Lairia nodded, "I'll send for one after lunch for you both. Come this way."

Lairia knew the way to the Circles private dining area. It was a beautiful room on the third floor, with windows overlooking the sea and letting natural light in. This room was made of darker mahogany wood and the same brilliant white marble flooring with an elegant long table in the middle, already made up for lunch. A small door was at the back of the room that would lead into a serving room complete with the tiny food elevator, so the kitchens in the basement could ship up food when the Circle was having guests. This room was only for special lunches and dinners, as normally all ate in the mess hall. Lairia had only been in the room once in a tour when she first studied here but she had never eaten. It almost made her giddy if it wasn't for the reasons she was here.

Those thoughts passed as Pitr greeted her and that unnerving stare threw Lairia off slightly. She sat as told, happy to have her tiger near as she fell silent, letting them all speak while she fussed quietly over what to say. She never really saw herself getting to this point. And here she was. And she was about to each lunch with these kind people before confessing to murder.

The thought made her stomach drop and she plastered a smile on and pet Rhaegal, hoping to calm her nerves before the rest would arrive.

Meanwhile Sera was holding Elayas hand tightly, being as polite as she could, while her stomach churn and that nausea returned. It was probably simply stress over doing everything right but the queasy feeling didn't pass, and she fought to keep a smile up zoning in and out with her attention as Elaya spoke to her siblings and they took thier seats. She nodded when needed and smiled every time Elaya looked to her, not wanting to be rude.

Her nausea got no easier when the doors did open and six people filed in, 3 men and 3 women. Stephanae was in the forefront, making that number seven, as she introduced the Circle.

"Master Hemlick and Master Veronica," Stephanae introduced. A tall male with dark hair and blue eyes passed her escorting a shorter woman with mouse brown hair and green eyes. Both had soft smiles and tanned skin from the sun. And Both were dressed in the Mage robes that Stephanae wore except theirs were embroidered with green black and gold and held by black braids at the waist. They murmured thier greetings and bowed their heads to the three guests in turn, lingering with Elaya, then sat.

"Master Zael and Master Kariah," she announced and a man with striking white hair and dark eyes stepped forward. He looked many a few centuries old with various wrinkles and his thin lips were set in a permanent frown. He bowed his head curtly and sat. Behind him a woman with grey streaked blonde hair strutted behind him, looking just as old and as wise but also a little prudish, her mouth set in a thin line as she gazed over them and bowed her hair in turn. Both wore dark grey robes with long sleeves the fell to thier feet. However the woman's was more of a dress with a corset holding the torso in place and the black belt sitting snugly around her waist. The male had his fitted too with a leather embroidered vest over it and the bottom of the robe billowed out, showing the pants he wore underneath. From the looks and air about them these two were the warlocks and if Elaya or Sera were to look over they would see Lairias head bowed in respect to her old teachers.

"And lastly, Master Erik and Master Ki."

This time the woman passed the doors first, looking beautiful and young and from the very easy of the continent where the people there used to be known as Asian. She had beautiful ivory skin and black hair, with light brown eyes that looked over the table and lit up seeing their guests. She gave them a smile and courtseyed in the kimono styled dress she wore that was red with white and painted with flowers. Behind Ki was Erik, looking much the opposite of her in a finely tailored suit. He was tall, almost as tall as Narxis, with golden hair and blue eyes. He looked eager but also patient, and young. He was the only one to step over to the ladies and kneel on one knee, bowing to the princess before he took his seat between Ki and Hemlick.

"That will be all Steph, please notify the kitchens," Hemlick ordered.

"Yes sir," she nodded and headed out, closing the door and leaving them to it.

"Lairia, it's been some time," Ki said, smiling at her, "and you come back with a princess!"

Lairia laughed nervously, "yes, I've had quite the few decades. You all know El-princess Elaya. And this here is Seraphina, her fiancée."

Sera smiled, trying to hold down her stomach and be polite, "thank you for allowing us to sit wit you for lunch. Elaya wanted to speak with you."

Her eyes turned to Elaya, moving the attention off herself as smelt food and felt ravenous, although still rather nauseous.
 
Elaya noted Sera's discomfort, but she could nothing for it.

She rose, and drew Sera to her feet as well, when the circle entered, then sat when they had all entered and taken their own chairs.

Now she smiled. "My lords and ladies it has been some time since I last visited the Palace of the Circle. Some of you not yet born either into this life, or at all. It has been far too long. And i wished to greet my old friends, and see the progress that has been made. The city flourishes, the palace is even more grand than i can remember, and you see to be bursting with students. Their skills are known and honored throughout the world." She raised a glass in toast to them. "my congratulations."

She sipped, watching the others do the same, gently stroking Sera's knuckles with her thumb.

Pitr and Hagath sat with their fellows, facing the others. They offered nothing.

Elaya was not troubled. She smiled. "i must also compliment you on your guards. They are most skilled and very polite."

Her smile grew wider. In celebration of my upcoming nuptials, i ahve brought a gift for the Circle."

She clapped, knowing lairia and Sera would be entirely unaware of what she was talking about. Rhaeghal turned his head toward the door, while Elaya sat calmly, sipping her tea again as the doors behind her opened, and eight servants came in, each bearing a platter. They moved to each of the Circle members, laying the platters down, then removed the covers. Books, scrolls, amulets, rings, and all sorts of enticing gifts lay on each platter.

She gestured at them languidly. "Small tokens of my gratitude for your friendship and hospitality, and for the hospitality of allowing me to stay as your guest. You are far too kind." It was no bribe. She knew they would know that. Metuzi did not bribe, especially not each other.

Pitr touched one of the books and gasped. "Elay....Your Grace. This is a first edition Tolstoy!"

Elaya smiled. "Yes My Lady. I know how found you are of his works. Gerald and I found it in a vampire's nest in Moscow some while ago. been holding it until I saw you again. Didn't expect it would be so long."

Hagath blinked, then looked at his own gifts. "Your Grace...a weaver's gauntlet?"

She nodded grinning. "Reynault found that. Just before he joined our little group. He gave it to me but we never had a proper magic user." She did not even look toward Lairia, knowing the name would hurt her friend, but also assure the Circle that Lairia's fate and feelings had nothing to do with Elaya's gift. It also indicated that Lairia was not truly a member of the group.

She knew it would seem harsh and cold, but tying their fates together would only cause Lairia more problems with the Circle, if her own massive ones could be overcome.

She caught Rhaeghal's eye, and he nuzzled his mother, licking her wrist, and pressed his large paw onto her hidden hand. When he drew it away, it revealed a ring. A blood stoned ring that Lairia would know immediately had belonged to Reynault. This was Elaya's message to Lairia. She could not do anything to sway the Circle, but Elaya would support Lairia, and be her friend forever.

She did not look toward Lairia herself even once as the other's went through their gifts. Their favorite authors, notebooks and journals from ancients of their line, along with their rings, or even circlets, crowns, or other such items that would have great sentimental meaning to them. Ceremonial daggers, the head of staffs, even pictures of the great beings that had sired the people in this room. Elaya had the answer and the story and source of each item, proving them beyond doubt to be genuine.

While they were still marveling over their gifts, the food began to arrive.

Hagath set it to distribute to the eaters, and Elaya smiled ass two large trays came to her and Sera's place. She opened the one before Sera first and smirked. There was the fire essence that the elf lord had found for Sera and Elaya relaxed, seeing also that the found would suit her lover properly. She smiled and winked at Sera, then opened her own and gasped.

"Hagath you dear man Thank you!"

Before her lay a massive platter loaded with 6 thick moose steaks. Beside them a large bowl of green plant stems, a frozen bowl with what had to be snow, but was oddly colored and smelled of chocolate and vanilla, and a second tray filled with a large browned pink thing. She sniffed and sighed happily. "Whale tongue...oooh and you did!"

She grabbed another bowl that was hidden behidn the tongue and showed it to Sera. "Chocolate drops!"

She popped one into her mouth and sighed happily. "Reindeer milk chocolate. Hagath i owe you another gift for this. And the kitchens of the palace. Wonderful."

She did not delay, digging into her meal. Rhaeghal took her cue and set to his own meal, slabs of meat well seasoned and soaked in juices healthy for him.

Elaya at as she always did, quickly but impossibly neatly. She used her fork and knife with great skill, carefully dabbed her lips with her napkin, and always maintained perfect posture.

She devoured everything, and drained several pitchers of her tea, yet no sign of a mess nor a sound of her imbing could be heard. Rhaeghal ate rather daintily as well, but just as quickly.

Only when she had finished, and was now snacking on her chocolates did she deign to resume any conversation. She did not pester Pitr that the woman ate neatly and quietly, but more than double what Elaya her self had taken in. Hagath did note her displeased eyes when his elbow rested on the table, or when he slurped his soup once.

She smirked behind her bowl of snow ice cream as he muttered. "She's worse than Grandmother." And winked at Sera so only her love could see.

She then waited for her hand to warm up before running her finger along Sera's thigh under the table. She did not push further, and the touch was not truly sexual, just furtherance of Elaya's need to be touching Sera nigh constantly.
 
As all sat down, Ki stood and poured everyone tea, lingering beside Lairia to ask how she was. Ki had been one of her teacher’s in the last few years Lairia had been studying, and the Circle Member never forgot a face. After a few minutes of idle chatting Ki sat and attention turned to Elaya as she spoke.

Sera and Lairia’s heads whipped toward Elaya when there was talk of gifts. Lairia looked confused as did Sera, neither having no knowledge. As the platters came in, Sera continued to look at Elaya in confusion, while Lairia looked away, noting the clear decisive words Elaya was saying. It almost hurt, but she was not false. Lairia was not part of their team. She had paid them to deliver her here and they had.

Feeling Rhaegal under her hand she turned in her seat and smiled at him, settling him back into his seat before noticing the ring in her palm. It didn’t take her more than a second to recognize it and within a wink of an eye it was gone, hidden alike the box where no one could take it from her. Then she sat calmly and waited for lunch, watching as the Circle ogled their gifts – most with delight – offering many thanks. Out of the eight members, only two looked sullen, and they were the warlocks. Zael and Kariah sat tall and proper as they picked each gift up and examined it with interest in their eyes but not their faces. Once or twice Kariah asked what one thing did or where another was found, offering her thank you only when she was finished. Zael asked no questions, although when he was finished he stood and gave her Elaya a sweeping bow, showing his own gratefulness. Zael had never been one much for words or sentiment. Being alive for as long as he could ware on a man, especially one destined to one job. No one knew for sure his age, but a warlock that was grey haired was indeed an old one. Kariah was a little more spoken than her counterpart, but she too was old and took that as a sign of superiority, except within the presence of royalty. Out of the two of them, Lairia had always respected Zael’s wisdom, even if it came with grunts and growls, but as a student had feared Kariah’s harsh tongue once. She too was a worthy teacher, even if her methods were cold at best.

As for the others, the mages who sat next to the were’s were rather delighted over the gifts and much more conversational. They expressed their gratitude multiple times and Hemlick broke into a conversation with Pitr over one book, recalling how good it was the last he read it. Veronica, being one of the newest members aside from Erik, at least from Lairia’s bet knowledge, looked excited but held more of it back, still playing by the book. She didn’t want to step on toes, or ruin her image. It made Lairia smile, seeing such young talent on the Circle. Once upon a time she had hoped for that too, but it had never been in her fate.

The two sorcerers who sat across from Lairia also looked just as thrilled, and like Hemlick, Ki was rather chatty, complimenting Sera and Elaya’s looks, thanking the princess for her gifts and asking many questions about each. Erik chimed in with a very questions himself but he was very polite about it, and giving all three girls dazzling grins every chance he could. Lairia guessed he had probably been dubbed the “cool” teacher of the lot in the College, or to some of the teenage girls, the “hot” one. He definitely had a calm, warm energy about him, and seemed down to earth, but the suit spoke of a man who worked on his looks. Interesting for a sorcerer, she could say the least.

As lunch arrived Ki continued up with the conversation, asking all three girls plenty of questions about current affairs. Hemlick joined in too and the conversation spread over the table as waiters – which in fact were volunteering students – took the gifts to be taken to each of their own quarters as their lunches were set down on the table, each designed specifically for the person it was plated for. Lairia received a roast beef dinner complete with warm potatoes and fresh veggies, a delight she hadn’t had in a long time. Sera smiled at her meal, and took it gracefully, but one bite in her stomach knotted more and it was all she could do to keep the food down as she ate each bite slowly, one after the other.

Conversation rose and fell, affairs current and past and future, plans for the College and the city, and onto plans of Elaya’s. Lairia made sure the conversation never swung to her, avoiding that topic till the very end until –

“Lairia, we have yet to ask what made you return,” Ki piped up, turning attention onto the sorceress.

“Oh well, I…” she paused, lost in what to say.

And then her saving grace came in the form of Seraphina. With a sudder clatter the chair she was sitting on hit the floor as Sera scrambled back, hand over her both, food only half eaten. Seeing the small door to the back she mistaked it for a washroom and bolted for it, only to find the serving room but there was no time. Grabbing the large waste bin she had only seconds before her lunch and all she ate for breakfast came up. She coughed and gagged and she vomited, her stomach in more knots than ever. When a warm hand pressed against her back she knew it would be Elaya and it eased the utter humiliation she felt, to ruin such a fine lunch and chat with such awful timing.
 
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