Company+of+the+Phoenix+Session+5

 ** Session 5** **3/4/16** **Anuul - an Old Friend, Arrival in Suzail, Dancing, Drinking, and Competitions!**

The group of companions boarded a river boat, leaving Knightswood and headed to Alix's hometown of Mouth O Gargoyles. The city was an island with the river going around it. High watch towers were stationed along the edges. A long line of riverboats awaited them as they grew closer, and a guard called down from one of the towers, "It'll be about a half an hour." Alix explained the elevator at the waterfall's edge to carry the boats up to the next level. "Of course," Alaric nodded, "Fine Cormyrian engineering." He looked at Tiri, "You should take notes." She nodded, "It is fascinating... if it were elven, it would work by magic." "Ah," he nodded. A large bridge connected the island to the farming community on the shoreline of the river. There was a large market along the bottom half of the island, and there was a magic school known as Wizard's Gate. Alix lead the group to the Blue Moon Ale House, a well known tavern, "We could use a few drinks." "Ladies..." Charlemagne nodded to some of the young women as they walked in the door and they erupted into flirty giggling. The darkly clad slayer shook his head, "Don't mind the women here... they're a little crazy when it comes to men." "Crazy," the muscular warrior nodded, "That's what I'm counting on, cousin. Those are my kind of women." The group sat down at one of the tables, ordering a round of drinks from Beatrice, the young barmaiden carrying trays throughout the tavern. Alaric and Charlemagne helped to talk up Alix's heroics to the young barmaiden, telling a great tale of how he dove into a dark pit after a giant spider! "Your mother must be so proud of you!" Beatrice nodded at the young slayer. "Well if my mother could be proud of me being a bounty hunter..." Alix frowned, looking skeptical. "Bounty hunting!" A young feminine voice called from across the room, "That's very dangerous business!" "Oh what do you know about bounty hunting?" Alix retorted as the others looked up to see a kitsune woman bouncing over to their table. Alaric looked her over curiously and turned back to his cousin, "Who is this charming young lady, Alix?" "I like that one!" the young kitsune exclaimed loudly, gesturing to the golden-haired mage. "This is Anuul," Alix answered, "She is a friend of mine... she's a kitsune." "Why don't you join us?" Alaric nodded to her, "I bet you could tell us fascinating stories about young Alix's childhood." "Noone can tell you stories like I can!" she exclaimed, pulling a chair in next to Alaric.

She spun the chair around, snatching it from another patron about to sit in it, scooting in next to Alaric. She wore light armor and carried a bow. She told stories about a brothel catching on fire, sneaking liquor, and other embarrassing childhood adventures. She was very excitable and spoke fast. Alaric and Charlemagne told stories of the young slayer's heroics hunting down orcs and goblins. "You answered the King's call!" she nodded to Alix, "I wondered where you went." "Well there was money involved... so I had to," he explained. "Not to mention serving the King as a loyal nobleman of Cormyr." the gold haired mage added, trying to make his cousin look better, "And we did make quite a bit of coins hunting down the orcs and goblins... and there was a young halfling that we rescued from a precarious predicament." She nodded, "There have certainly been a number of strangers flooding through town lately... on their way to the royal wedding no doubt... what a dreamy thing that will be." She sighed a little longingly. Charlemagne and Tiri asked at the same time, "Are you going?" Anuul shook her head sadly, "I haven't gotten an invitation." "Maybe I'll get one for you," Alix nodded. "You'd do that for little ol' me?!" she beamed at her friend excitedly. "We are good friends," he shrugged. Alaric nodded to him approvingly, "How good of you to think of your friend. I'd expect no less from a nobleman." Anuul continued on, "I heard that the King may invite //EVERYONE//!" "Really?" Tiri tilted her head, "That could bring quite the turnout." The young kitsune nodded excitedly, "It's going to be a grand event! I hear it's supposed to last for a WEEK!" "I'm sure there will be many grand parties," Alaric nodded. "There's a rumor that the King is planning something really special for his daughter, but he's being really hush-hush about it," she went on, "We've been trying to figure it out!" "Well it is the King... so I'm sure it will be something spectacular," the young nobleman sorcerer nodded. "Knowing how long the King has been trying to marry one of those girls off... it's going to be off the chain!" Anuul agreed excitedly. "I imagine the other princesses will be there too," Alaric nodded. "The whole royal family in one spot..." Anuul sighed dreamily, "and of course, brave Sebathian... that will be so exciting!" "A good man," Alaric agreed, "She has chosen well." "He saved the King a couple of years ago!" the brown furred archer nodded, "From those damn interlopers from the Shade's side." She made a look of disgust. "There's always someone jealous of Cormyr's good fortune," he agreed again. "But their city fell out of the sky, Ha! Serves them right," Anuul nodded. "Mountain tops weren't meant to fly anyway," Tiri shook her head. "The arrogance of some magic users knows no bounds," Alaric nodded. "You mean like you?" Alix raised an eyebrow. "Well... I'm too young to be arrogant yet... but someday I hope to be," Alaric replied. "If you mess with magic, you'll get the horns!" Anuul shook her head. "I think that's what he's counting on," Charlemagne nodded to her. "So where are you guys going now?" she asked and then pointed to the empty mug in front of Charlemagne, and shouted, "His glass is empty!" "Well we were just on our way to Suzail to go to the wedding when we decided to stop here to visit Alix's parents on our way through," Alaric nodded as the barmaid came over with another tray of drinks. "So you're leaving right away?!" the young kitsune sighed heavily, "You always make me miss out on the good stuff!" "Well we'd love to take you with us, but..." Charlemagne looked her over. "But?" she looked up at him with big brown eyes. "You're not prepared," Alix finished. "That's right, she's not prepared," Charlemagne agreed. "Not prepared? What are you saying?! What do you mean I'm not prepared?" she argued, "What must a girl do?" "Well there's the initiation... but you don't have enough time to pass it," Charlemagne shrugged. Anuul pulled two daggers from her hips and danced around, "Let's do it!" "It's not that kind of initiation," the strong muscled warrior shook his head. The young kitsune gasped, "You're a dirty old man, aren't you?!" She swept her tail around herself, accusing him, "You've been checking out my tail, haven't you?" "You should really brush that thing out," Charlemagne gestured to her tail, "It's some matted fur all in it." "It was shedding a few weeks ago," she retorted defensively, stroking the fur. "Well I suppose if you want to join," Alix shrugged and sighed, "But there's a condition... after the wedding you'll have to go home... probably on your own." "That wont be a problem. I've been to Suzail lots of times!" she agreed, "I should go pack." Charlemagne nodded to her, "We wouldn't want you to forget anything." "Okay, see you tomorrow! Bye!" she exclaimed practically over her shoulder as she bolted out of the tavern, heading toward her family's farm. Several other patrons stopped by and bought rounds of drinks as they recognized Alix. Two or three other small groups of noblemen sat at the tables, likely heading to the wedding or home. The group of four had a delicious meal and headed to the Ebonhawk family estate. Alix looked over the quiet home that was for bounty hounters. It looked locked up, but there was a lantern in the window. The elevator operator took the group up to the higher level of the city, and they made their way past the magic university to the nobleman estates. There was a long walk up to two big guard towers where the guards welcomed Alix home, and sent word to have rooms prepared. The estate was homey, a large house with luxurious rooms. Lady Deserei Ebonhawk was the matriarch, a beautiful woman with fair skin and red hair. She had two children, Aldric and Angele, and she had adopted young Alix many years ago. She was muttering loudly about Alix out risking his life, "We have guards for that sort of thing... and soldiers... and those damn Purple Dragons!" "Hello, Aunty, how are you doing?" Charlemagne greeted her warmly as though he didn't hear a word. "Well..." Deserei looked the strong warrior over, and nodded, "I see the boy... in the man who stands before me now... Charlemagne. How have you been?" He grinned at her, "Exceptional!" She nodded and smiled, "And your father?" "He's great!" the warrior nodded. "I hear that he's very busy this time of year," she continued on, "I imagine the security for the wedding must be driving him mad about now." "Ah you know how he is," Charlemagne waved a dismissive hand, "He's a stickler for details." "I do indeed," she agreed, using a cane to help her get up from her chair and walk over to greet the group, "Give us a hug." Charlemagne embraced her warmly. Alaric greeted her with a warm hug as well, "It is good to see you again, cousin." "Well... the mighty have come down from the mountain," she ribbed him good naturedly as she hugged him. "Every once in a while we have to..." he started to reply. "Swoop down?" she interrupted. "And mingle with the common folk?" Charlemagne joined in. Alaric smiled, "It is our duty to shed our light into the dark places." "Well you should shed your light here more often," she grinned and hugged him. "You look just as young as I remember," he nodded to her. "Oh, you have your father's tongue, I see," she smirked at his charming words. "He's been drinking," Charlemagne nodded. "Just a little... we've just come from the Blue Moon," Alaric shrugged. "What have I told you about going to that place!" Deserei turned swiftly to face Alix, "You and that riff raff! This is what got you into trouble to begin with!" "Yes, we heard the story from his friend," Alaric nodded. "His friend?" the elder woman turned back to him, her expression softer. "Anuul," the sorcerer replied. "Oh that lovely girl," the red-haired noblewoman nodded and smiled approvingly. "She had many an interesting tale to tell about their adventures," the nobleman sorcerer nodded. "We were just traveling down to Suzail for the wedding, and we couldn't possibly travel through town without stopping in to see you, our dearest aunt," Alaric continued. "Wow, you are laying it on thick, aren't you," the elder woman smiled, "Well since you have gotten here so late... I can't offer you a proper dinner, so you will stay for an extended breakfast then." It was more of a pleasant demand than it was an invitational offer. "Sure if we must," Charlemagne grinned. "You must," Deserei nodded. "Then we will," the muscular warrior agreed. "Of course," Alaric agreed. "I will ready letters to your family that you should take with you as well," the beautiful matriarch added, her dark red hair falling over her shoulders as she nodded. "Of course," Alaric nodded, "Since it is quite late... I don't want to keep you awake, but we shall regale you with stories tomorrow." She nodded, and rang a bell to call for a servant girl to escort them to their rooms. On the way, Charlemagne nudged one of the guards, "Don't be surprised if Beatrice shows up looking for me." "Should we have her brought up to you?" the guard questioned. "The barmaid?" Alaric questioned, "I don't think the barmaid will come looking for you here." "They all do," his muscular brown-haired cousin assured him, and nodded back to the guard, "Absolutely." "You did make sure she knows to come to the back door, didn't you?" the young sorcerer asked. "They all know," Charlemagne replied. Tiri turned back to Deserei as the others were saying their good nights, "Lady Ebonhawk, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Tiri'elenai Embermoon. It's a pleasure to meet you." "Miss Embermoon," the elder woman nodded, "How did you come to find yourself here? Are they paying you?" She glanced back at the gentleman companions. "Fate," Charlemagne answered simply. "We required a healer for our brave expedition serving the crown," Alaric explained, "She graciously volunteered." Tiri nodded in agreement, "I was in Arabelle, helping the city rebuild when the volunteer groups came in to answer the call." "How goes the rebuild?" Deserei asked. "It goes quite well," Tiri nodded. "It was unfortunate... good people died there. I, myself, passed through just days before the attack," Deserei nodded. "I'm so glad that you weren't hurt," Tiri added. "As am I," the elder woman smiled, "You can tell me more about it in the morning." She bid her farewells and the servants escorted them off to their rooms. Thick dark carved wood walls and luxurious plush beds welcomed them in. A feint perfumed smell filled the house like jasmine on a summer breeze. "I'm sorry there's no pile of leaves for you here," Alaric smiled at Tiri as he stood in the doorway to his room. The young priestess laughed, "You know I don't sleep on leaves at home." "Hmm... I must be misinformed," the young mage shook his head, "I thought you all slept in leaves in the trees." "Not quite... Someday I'll take you to see it," Tiri nodded. "I look forward to seeing your quaint elven kingdom," he nodded. The beds had big thick blankets with a cool spring breeze coming in the windows. Everyone slept well. 2 or 3 hours before daybreak, a persistent tap woke Alix. He stumbled sleepily to the window, raising it to peer out, and a great big pack came sliding into the window, practically knocking him over. Anuul was quick to follow it in, "You're not leaving without me, are you?" "Of course not," he rubbed sleepy eyes. "Were you still sleeping?" she exclaimed, "It's time to go!" "Ugh..." the young slayer groaned, "Are the others up?" "I don't know... I didn't knock on their window," she shrugged. He shook his head, heading back toward the bed. "Fine," she sighed, "Scoot over then!" She crawled into his bed, curling up on one side. Alix shook his head, pushing her enormous fully-stuffed pack into the corner, and made it over to the bed to see her already asleep. He laid down on the other side, muttering, "That was quick!" The young slayer opened his eyes hours later to find his fox-like friend dressed and itching to go. Her nose was in the air, "Mmm Samuel is cooking this morning." A wonderful aroma of breakfast foods wafted from the hall, "Are you awake? Are you ready? Can we go now?" "Yes, yes... I'm awake," Alix yawned, "Let's go get breakfast." "Excellent!" She slid his slippers over in front of his feet and nudged him along. Alaric wore a red silken robe and gold dragon slippers down to breakfast, and Charlemagne came down in a towel. "Put on some clothes," the young mage shook his head at his cousin, with Alix echoing him in agreement, "Yes, put on some clothes." Anuul paused, staring at the warrior's bare rippling muscles for a moment before breaking her gaze to fill her plate with food. "If he had a little more fur on him... I tell you," she whispered to Tiri, much to the priestess's delight as she giggled and nodded. Anuul was right, Samuel was cooking. He added a little extra spice to everything when he cooked, and everything was delicious. The group told Deserei several stories, talking up Alix and his bravery. The elder woman nodding approvingly toward the young slayer, "I'm very proud of you." "Ah, for once you're proud," he replied, nodding. She nodded, "You've done well... but you'll always be my little boy. Don't go getting to big for your own britches." "We'll keep him down to earth," Alaric assured her. "Someone will have to," she nodded, "If I didn't know better... I'd say this one has his eye on the crown." "Is that not the dream of all young male Cormyrians?" the young mage grinned. "I suppose," she agreed. Charlemagne leaned over to the priestess, whispering "He only his eye on the crown, so he can see how much it's worth." Tiri laughed and nodded in agreement. "May good King Azoun reign for many years yet," Alaric continued. "Be it the gods wills," Deserei agreed, "I know that he is ready to pass on his crown, but he wishes it would be to his own family." "Let us hope this wedding goes well," Alaric nodded, "It is an unfortunate thing to have only daughters." "It is an interesting curse bestowed upon him," she agreed. The doorman announced the arrival of two female elves, " Kierahleigh Sunglaive, and her escort, Lady Shadowfall ." Recognizing the style of armor and the Corellion star, Tiri nodded respectfully to Kierahleigh, "Paladin of Corellion." "Young priestess," the paladin nodded, "It is good to see you." "It's a pleasure to meet you both," the young priestess nodded. "Aren't you going to introduce us?" Charlemagne nudged her. Tiri giggled and shook her head, "I don't her... I just recognize the symbols." "Oh... I thought you all knew each other," the warrior shrugged. The blue-haired priestess laughed softly, "There are several elven cities... I doubt anyone knows everyone." "Lady Sunglaive," Alaric nodded to the paladin, "It is good to meet you. What brings you down to Cormyr?" "Orders from Lady Lionspaw," Kierahleigh nodded, "We are to represent her in the overseeing of the wedding. And it was her son's request that we escort the Lady Ebonhawk to the celebrations." "We too are traveling down to Suzail. I'm certain we'll see you there. It's nice to know our aunt is in good hands," he nodded, "Are you from the same kingdom that Tiri is?" "No," the red haired elven woman shook her head as she noticed symbols of the Crescent City of Drannor on the young priestess, "We come from much further east... Myth Coramanth... it's in the Rawlinswood." "That is quite the distance away," Alaric noted. "Indeed," the paladin agreed, "Apparently Deserei made quite the impression on the young prince." "Ah, well... that's our Aunty for you... she is quite striking," Alaric nodded. The young elven woman dressed in black leathers remained close to Kierahleigh and seemed to be sizing up Alix's skills before turning her attention to Charlemagne's new sword, "That's quite the elegant blade, sir... May I?" She offered her hand. "Why certainly," he handed her Ashweaver, "Feel the weight." Kinu accepted it, looking it over with admiration before returning it to it's sheath and handing it back, "Masterful." "Our priestess told us it was one of nine blades called the Shards of Evermeet," Alaric nodded. "Ah, of course," Kierahleigh nodded, reciting the tale of how they came to be forged to reclaim Cormanthor forest, "How did you come across this, if I may ask?" Charlemagne and Alaric told her the story of the vision of elves and a dwarf fighting drow... how the sword seemed to call to him... and fighting the way through the deep hole in the earth to find it amongst the bodies of melted in a vast circle. "May she guide you to beautiful places," the young paladin nodded to the warrior, "Wield it well." "Thank you," Charlemagne nodded to her. "We hope to see you at the celebration," Alaric added. "I believe we are slated to be in the stands somewhere around 1A," she nodded. "Excellent, I'll look you both up for a dance," the young mage nodded. "Yes, I'll let you play with my sword some more," Charlemagne grinned. "Oooo," Kierahleigh cooed playfully at him, "I hear King Azoun has many things planned. Give yourself a week. Something is planned for every day before the wedding." The group said their farewells and headed for their boat, packed with a lunch from Chef Samuel. Anuul was fidgeting, ready to go... very excitable. "You don't get out much, do you?" Charlemagne asked her as he caught up to her drumming her hands together waiting for the third time. "My family does farming... I'm starting to feel like I've been planted," she shook her head. "Well if you play your cards right, missy, you might just go adventuring with us," he nodded. "That's what I'm talking about!" she nodded to him excitedly. She led the way, moving quickly. "You're going to love the boat ride," Alaric nodded to her. "Just kick your feet in the water... then we'll go faster," Tiri offered cheerfully. They disembarked at Catlanter's bridge, taking the road to Suzail. The city was enormous... the jewel of Cormyr. Set on the ocean front, it had several gates for entry. Alaric passed a pair of shaded spectacles to the young elf, "You may want to put these on... the radiance of the city may blind you." Tiri looked ahead at the massive port city, and nodded, "I'm ready to be impressed." "You shall not have to wait much longer," Charlemagne walked proudly beside her, heading for the gates. "I shall stand beside you to catch you when you feint," Alaric nodded, walking on her other side. Tiri laughed and nodded to him, "So generous. We'll take a tour, of course?" "Of course!" the golden haired mage nodded confidently, "This is our capital city... and it has been for about 4 generations. It's the most beautiful city in the world... be sure you're not too tired as it will take days to take the full tour." The young priestess grinned at such a boast, "I admit that I am fascinated by your culture, and I am looking forward to seeing it all." A giant white wall surrounded the city, and several wagons and people were entering through the several different gates in the wall. The four companions entered through the east gate through the more residential grounds with big beautiful houses. "The temple district is down there," Alaric pointed down the street where they could see tall and domed buildings sticking up above the crowds, "For the civilized gods." She narrowed her eyes, certain that was some sort of snide remark about Corellion and the elven gods, "What's that supposed to mean?" Speaking perfectly calmly, he smiled, "It means that you wont find a temple to an evil god there." "Oh okay," she nodded approvingly, and went back to taking in all of the sights around them. There were several stands set up along the main entrance road where people were selling all sorts of wedding souvenirs along with the other fine wares of Suzail. The streets were massively crowded with people everywhere... it was rather awe-striking to the elven woman. "It's usually not quite this crowded, of course," Alaric assured her, and nodded to the others, "We should stop in and see my family while we're here." "Certainly," Charlemagne and Alix agreed in unison. "I'm certain they could put up with you for a few days," the young charismatic sorcerer nodded. "I don't see why not," Charlemagne agreed, seemingly sidestepping the playful jab. "You're, of course, welcome to stay with us," Alaric turned back to Tiri, "I'll have to introduce you to my sisters. They'll want to meet an elf priestess." "Oh, what do your sisters do?" Tiri asked. "The elder of the two, Mia ... who is still a few years younger than I, is training to be a sorceress as well, but the youngest, Ophelia, sits around the house doing whatever young noblewomen do... giggle a lot, I imagine," he answered. Tiri smiled and nodded, "She does the socializing then, I'm sure." Alaric nodded his agreement. Anuul was practically bouncing off of the walls with her nose in the air, smelling everything at once, "It smells so good here! ...Except for him, he stinks... I think he's been on the road for awhile." She gestured toward a gentleman much farther up the road. Tiri laughed, laying a hand on her shoulder, "It's wonderful that you're so bluntly honest." Alaric led them to several places to shop, picking up several rumors of planned events and parties. Parts of the city had been sectioned off for specific events like mage dueling grounds. A road had been taped off with colorful ribbons for some sort of parade. Topiaries and gazebos had been set up in another area. Alix headed off on his own to one of the recommended archery shops in the vast market while Alaric and Charlemagne took Tiri and Anuul to sample the delicious food from the many vendors. "What is fried dough?" the young priestess peered at the large round pastry in front of her. "It's delicious. Just try it," Alaric assured her, "Especially with a little cinnamon on it," He sprinkled a canister over the pastry on her plate. She broke a piece off with her fingers and put it in her mouth. The outside edge was just barely crispy while the inside was soft and sweet, practically melting on her tongue, "Mmmm!" Alaric eventually rounded the companions up and led them to his family's estate. Gold and red seemed to be the general theme with several gold inlaid statues and dragon decor. There was a magically heated tub room where they took turns bathing and leaving their armor in rooms prepared for them. "Oh my gosh! Look at the size of this bed!" Anuul shouted from the sound of bouncing on one of the beds, "And there's so many books!" Alaric had the kitchen prepare dinner and brought up brandy and drinks. Anuul, antsy as ever, paced with her tail wagging as she watched all of the people outside, "There's a lot going on out there... Their starting to light the lanterns." "Oooo!" Tiri joined her, the two of them pointing excitedly at some of the costumed people and the nobles showing off their colors. Magical fires lit around the Goldsword estate and the companions watched from the balcony as the crowds gathered in the street around the palace where King Azoun, himself, came out to talk to the people. Alaric handed Tiri a pair of spectacles that enlarged things that were a distance away. "Fascinating," she nodded, looking through them, "You have the most interesting devices." "Of course," he agreed, looking through another set. "Welcome everyone who has made the journey," King Azoun, opened his arms invitingly, "to the great city of Suzail! In order to commemorate grand event of my daughter, Kalaree and her chosen husband to be, the honorable Sebathian Hawklin... I searched my kingdom for a proper way to celebrate... and we have many bards and storytellers a plenty in our kingdom, but in my search... I found a more collaborative group from far to the east, in the great country of Impiltur. I have gone to great lengths to bring the Carnival of Masks to Cormyr. I leave you with their grand announcer." He stepped back, gesturing to a beautiful woman dressed in black and wreathed in a white fire. A crow sitting on her shoulder began pulling out it's feathers. The woman took the feathers and cast them out into the wind, scattering them with a pop through the entire city, bringing the city to life with orbs of light as the Carnival of Masks paraded into the city through the East Gate. The best of the best of Impiltur in acting, music, dance, costumes, and all various performances were dressed in bright and colorful masks. The woman in black and white stepped forward with a magically amplified voice, "This being the first of five nights of celebration deserves a grand introduction... Welcome... to the night of Dance and Drink. Every bar in the city is open and free. It's on us." "I can't wait to see how you all dance here!" Tiri cheered excitedly. Alaric led them to his favorite taverns and grand ballrooms had been set up for dancing. Jugglers and magic was performed in the streets. There were three main band stands... one by the Indigo mask near the palace, another by the Violet mask along the northern edge of the city, and the third was an all elven troupe in the more middle of the city. "Would you like to dance?" Charlemagne offered Tiri his hand. "I would love to dance!" the elven priestess nodded, accepting his lead to the dance floor. "I'll try not to step on your feet," he assured her. "I would appreciate that," she laughed, "You do have big boots." The strong warrior sort of kicked her in the shins as they danced, and he tried to explain that it was a maiming dance and the girls were supposed to dodge as part of the dance. Right behind them, the young priestess could hear Anuul's voice as the young kitsune danced with Alix, "Ow! That's my paw! Oh, watch my tail! Ow! I think I'm bleeding!" "It's been a few years," Alix responded defensively. "A few YEARS?!" the young kitsune shouted at him in disbelief. "I think Charlemagne is a little tipsy," Alaric stepped up, taking Tiri's hand, "Come, I shall show you the non limb destroying dances." "It's this damn brandy," the warrior cousin agreed, and gestured toward the mage with accusation, "The bilge water he pumped me up with before we got here." "I am sorry... it's a little strong for you, I'm afraid," Alaric nodded to him, sweeping the young elven woman away in a dance. "Okay, I'm done! Ow!" Anuul grabbed her tail, stepping away from her childhood friend. "I need another partner," Charlemagne extended his hand, "Come on. I'm just getting warmed up." "It can't be any worse," the kitsune agreed, taking his hand, "I don't know how he even stepped on my tail... it's BEHIND me!" Charlemagne and Anuul danced much better together... while the young warrior still had an agressive kick to his dance, the lithe kitsune seemed to dodge him in her steps and together it looked much like Charlemagne had described the maiming dance to look like. Alaric and Tiri swept across the floor with grace and beauty, the young elf following his experienced lead easily. All of them laughed jovially and had an excellent time. Charlemagne complained again about the brandy, and Alaric pretended to piss in a mug in retort, "Here, I'll make you a drink you're much more accustomed to." "He's your friend?" Anuul asked, blinking wide eyes. "No, not really," Charlemagne shook his head. "Haven't you noticed his breath?" Alaric asked her. The young kitsune scrunched up her nose and looked at Charlemagne who smiled without missing a bit, "How do you think I keep my teeth so white?" Tiri and Anuul both blinked in surprise, and Anuul asked again, a little more incredulously, "He's your friend?" "No... not really," Charlemagne answered again, shaking his head. "The best of friends!" Alaric put his arm around the warrior's shoulders, "Cousins!" As the group laughed and joked, the young mage and priestess noticed Lionel Wyvernspur moving across the dance floor. "Should we go and inquire about Urd, cousin?" Alaric asked, turning to the warrior beside him. "Yes, absolutely," Charlemagne nodded, walking in the direction of Lionel with his cousin. "Who is this Urd?" Anuul asked as she and Tiri followed behind them. Tiri nodded, "She was a ranger we met back in the woods. Very nice." "Oh yes, I'm sure..." the young kitsune sounded a little jealous. "Yes, Charlemagne was rather taken with her," Alaric added. "Smitten," Charlemagne agreed. "Sure, just turn the knife while it's still in there," Anuul retorted, and turned to Tiri, "He was showing his bare self to me... I thought that meant something." "No he shows off to everyone," Alaric shook his head. "He does that all the time," Alix agreed. "Well that's just rude," Anuul spoke softly and folded her arms. "Welcome to my life," Alix nodded to her. "He shows his bare self to you too?" she blinked at him, "That's just gross." "They're cousins," Tiri shrugged. "That's not helping," Anuul assured her, looking more grossed out. "But I thought that was a human thing?" Tiri tilted her head. "Maybe it is," Anuul nodded, "I wouldn't know." "Yeah, communal showers," Charlemagne nodded. "Oh, we have communal baths," Tiri nodded, missing his sarcasm. "Well next time you go, just let me know," he nodded to her enthusiastically, "I'd be happy to join you." Tiri laughed. The group arrived laughing to greet Lionel who grasped their arms warmly in greeting, asking about adventures and coin. "We ran into a couple of your kin, and got them out of a bit of trouble," Alaric nodded. "Ah, so that WAS you," Lionel nodded, "We'd heard that a Rallyhorn, Ebonhawk, and Goldsword were involved... we figured it had to be the Phoenix's," he added in a low mutter, "any others of those three wouldn't have gotten along that well." "I'm sure it wasn't anything they could have handled themselves, but we were glad to have lent a hand," Alaric nodded. "I heard that the senior passed," Lionel became solemn. "Unfortunately true," Tiri nodded in answer. "What happened?" Lionel asked. "A dangerous armored minotaur in some dwarven ruins that stumbled upon under the earth," Alaric answered. "I think I've heard of some dwarven ruins that the earth had retaken many years ago," Lionel nodded. "Indeed... it had some dangerous creatures inside... but we were able to get out safely with those we could save," Alaric nodded. "Manny and Martin," Lionel nodded. "And Mary, their companion," Tiri added. "Ah yes, the halfling," Lionel nodded. "So your company is well then?" Alaric asked. "Yes, we got out allotment of heads and then Urd wanted to be back here in time for the wedding," Lionel nodded. "Ah, so Urd is here then," the young mage nodded. "Yes, I'm not sure where though," the warrior looked around, "Off doing Urd things... she's a bit of a loner that way." "Our good nobleman here, Charlemagne, wanted to speak with her again," Alaric nodded. "Still on the hunt, eh?" Lionel turned to his fellow warrior. "Ever," Charlemagne nodded. "I wish you the best of luck," Lionel nodded. "We'll be staying at my family's estate while we're in town," Alaric offered, "If you need anything, you can leave a message there. The brandy is a bit strong for the feint of heart, but it would do you good." "It increases your dancing dexterity," Charlemagne nodded. "I have never found that to be true," Lionel grinned. "So who is this?" Anuul piped up. "Forgive me," Alaric nodded, "This is Lionel Wyvernspur, and this is Alix's friend Anuul from Mouth O Gargoyles." "Charmed, I'm sure," the young kitsune nodded, "We own the big farm." "I'll let you two get aquainted. Lord Wyvernspur, why don't you tell her all about your adventuresome exploits?" Alaric led the others off, leaving the kitsune behind as she ooo'd and ahh'd over the handsome warrior who started to object, but then took her arm and led her off. The rest of the night was a drunken affair with lots of dancing. The Purple Dragons made a presence, letting everyone know that nothing would get out of hand. Tiri bumped into Iowyn as everyone mingled and danced. The young archer told her that More'nue was in town with Sebathian. In the morning the guards shuffled the stragglers off of the streets. The group headed off to the palace where the priestess left a message for her brother telling him that she was staying at the Goldsword estate and to save her and her companions a good seat for the wedding. "Would love to see you this week if you have time!" "So you know the best man?" the golden haired mage beside her asked. "Oh yes," the blue haired priestess nodded, "That's my brother." "How did your brother meet a Cormyrian and become his best friend?" Alaric asked. Tiri went on to tell them the story of how More'nue went off adventuring and met Sebathian. "You should introduce us," Charlemagne nodded. "Of course!" Tiri nodded. "I look forward to meeting them both," Alaric nodded to her. The companions joined for a lunch of soup, sandwiches, and fruit at the Goldsword estate with a Windsong elven wine from Drannor. Tiri sighed happily, "This takes me back home." An announcement came to name the events as the Day of Courage and Cunning. An archery tournament, dueling rings for mages as well as melee, and a summoner's battle of creatures. Tiri accompanied Charlemagne in case the warriors were injured, while Alaric headed to the mage duels and Alix headed for the archery tournament. The mage arena had a line of bricks forming a circle with 2 tags in the center. There were several healers on standby in the area. Alaric stepped into the ring, and a familiar feminine voice rang out, "I've got you now. You can not run from me." His sister, Mia, stepped onto the other side of the ring. "I can't fight you," Alaric shook his head at her. "Are you submitting?" she stood defiant. "Of course not," he shook his head again, "You know you're no match for me." "That does it!" she looked back at the judges, "Can I go now? Can I go now?" "Don't come crying to me afterward," he warned her gently. "It's you who will be crying to me!" she brought up her hands, "Meteor Storm! ...soon." Alaric laughed, and brought up a magic shield. She threw a vial of oil at him, but the shield deflected it, and she gasped pointing at him, "What?! Where did you get that ring? You cheated!" He glanced at his ring of protection and grinned, "Just one of the benefits of exploring out in the world. You'll get to experience that in a few years if Mother ever lets you out of the house." "Just wait til she finds out you cheated!" she retorted. "It's not cheating," he responded with a sing-song mocking voice as he used a formed ghostly hand to grab a bucket of water from the sideline and dropped it over her head, "I think you need to cool off." Dripping in cold water, she pointed at him, "Cheats! More cheats! This is supposed to be a duel of flame." "Surely you don't expect me to burn my beautiful little sister," he replied. The judges on the side started to grin and nodded to the sibling dispute. Mia struggled to get a wand out of her soggy robes. "Now who's cheating, Miss wand," Alaric taunted her further, dropping the actual bucket over her head. "You started it!" her voice echoed out from the pail, "This is cheating, right?! I win, right?" The judges chuckled in amusement, "That's right... you win." "I don't know what came over me... must be the price of power," he pulled the bucket off of her head to reveal her thoroughly soaked... her hair dripped and her robes clung to her skin. "Like you'd know!" she retorted. He wove a minor prestidigitation spell to steam dry her. "Now you're just showing off!" she stormed off of the circle. Alix went to the archery tournament, choosing the standard stationary distance targets. He could hear the familiar voice of Anuul in the moving competition shouting out taunts and victory declarations. He carefully hit the first two targets, and as he moved up to the final target... the crowd parted to reveal the final two. He and Urd walked forward with their bows. She took the final win as his arrow slipped just past the target. The warrior's tournament contestants were each given 3 shields to break. Charlemagne stepped in to see his opponent was a member of the noble family Releque of Marsember... likely a brother to the man who was so boastful in the tavern when they met Urd and her companions. A glancing blow struck Charlemagne's first shield, and he shattered the noble's shield with one strike of his simple longsword. The Releque warrior grabbed his second shield and swung wildly, missing Charlemagne completely. The brown-haired Rallyhorn warrior struck into his opponent, forming a large crack in his shield. Releque struck into Charlemagne, finally destroying his first shield. The young noble retrieved his second shield and changed his weapon out for his Ashweaver sword. The crowd was awed over the blade that burst into flames, and Charlemagne exploded his opponent's second shield and Releque stepped back, holding his arm a bit. Releque retrieved his third shield, and shattered Charlemagne's second shield as the young Rallyhorn missed with a wild swing. As Charlemagne retrieved his third shield, Releque taunted him, "All of the magic in the world wont compensate for skill." "That's not what your sister said," Charlemagne countered. "No accounting for taste," Releque shook his head. Charlemagne destroyed Releque's third shield... and as he walked away, and the judges declared Charlemagne the winner. Releque rushed back in anger, but swung wildly, missing Charlemagne. The judges backed up, clearing the area. Charlemagne struck him with the side of his fiery blade, knocking him to the ground. The guards moved in and pulled out his opponent, "Well played, Lord Rallyhorn. That's an impressive blade." The judges handed him a gold battle figurine.