<font color=gold>~The sun has just crested the eastern sky, shedding down soft rays of light onto the huge city Kemal, capital of the land Defari. The city was still distant as Arlyth'Kaeion paused his stallion on a small hill, but his elven eyes could clearly see the people of Kemal were already up and moving. A formidable castle stood in its center, its silver and green banners fluttering in the light breeze, a red dragon circled around a rearing horse blazoned upon them. It was the kingdom of his adopted cousin's twin children, the half-dragons Alaerth and Alae.
Arlyth's aunt Slyuis served there as Head Cleric and a personal advisor to the young king, and it was to find her as well as meet his cousins that the elf had come.
Arlyth spoke to his steed, and they started down the hill at a light trot into the city. A human at the gates told him that if he wanted to get to the castle, he simply had to follow the main road up, and it would lead him the the front gate.
As Arlyth rode up the street, no curious looks were directed at him. Elves were not an uncommon site in Kemal, as they were in other cities. After a hefty walk up the street, the young elf saw the front gates come into view. He dismounted and led his stallion up to a man at the gates, who looked at him suspiciously and asked his name and buisness with the castle.~</font>

<font size=1><font color=silver>Arlyth’Kaeion petted his stallion, Atraeal and whispered to him, <font color=skblue>"It was a good ride boy, and I'll reward you later. Be patient a while longer whilst I deal with the human.</font> Turning to the human guard, Arlyth’Kaeion gave him a long look. Speaking softly, and keeping his tone low, he began <font color=skblue>"When speaking with strangers, it would be wise to watch one's tone, human. My buisness is my own. As for my name..."</font> he smiled slightly, his eyes both at once, amused and sardonic. <font color=skblue>"I am Lord Arlyth’Kaeion; son of Calaethis; and by his adoption into the Royal House of Esgaroth Dragonflame; and by that link, I claim kinship." </font> he grinned and waited for the guard's eyes to widen. <font color=skblue>"Mind fetching my aunt? The lady Sylquisitae? Give her this."</font> the young elf in black, handed a sealed letter to the guard. The seal was a dragon and a flame, with his deity's symbol in the background; a circle with a star within, and twelve blades pointing out.</font>

OOC, Sylquisitae follows the same deity as Cal did.</font>

[ 09-09-2003, 09:06 PM: Message edited by: Calaethis Dragonsbane ]

The guard wasn't fazed by Arlyth's arrogant attitude, having dealt with nobles before, but he blinked in surprise at the mention of Dragonflame and Calaethis, then hastily bowed without blotching it,
"I will fetch Lady Sylquis immediatley, my lord." He accepted the sealed letter and opened the gates to allow Arlyth in, "Please wait here, my lord, it will only be a moment." He hurried off.
A page approached Arlyth and bowed deeply, telling him that he would take his steed and care for him during his stay. Arlyth knew he would be well cared for, seeing as Defari produced the best horses in the world.
Arlyth did not have to wait long, and soon, the golden haired head of his aunt, dressed in resplendent sky blue robes, approached.

[ 09-09-2003, 09:22 PM: Message edited by: Lady Blue03 ]

<font size=1> <font color=silver>Arlyth’Kaeion smiled slightly when he saw the guard bowing, somewhat amused. Then seeing his aunt approach, he swallowed. Having never seen his aunt before, there was no doubt to who she was; the resemblance to his mother was uncanny. As she walked closer, he dropped to one knee and bowed from the waist, his head going lower then his knee, almost touching the floor.

He felt a touch on his shoulder and he looked up; his eyes seeing midnight blue robes as they rose up. He stared into the face of his aunt; she was beautiful. <font color=navyblue>"Welcome, child."</font> came her soft voice. Her voice was mature; the tone of a woman in full blossom. Arlyth’Kaeion swallowed again, and whispered, <font color=skblue>"Greetings, Lady Sylquisitae... my father and mother send their wishes, and pray that you are well."</font> Arlyth’Kaeion felt his aunt smile, <font color=navyblue>"Rise, nephew. Please, there is not need for you to kneel on the ground, we are after all kin, and you may address me as such."</font> Arlyth rose slowly, and was startled to find his aunt's arms around him, embracing him. The boy timidly embraced her back, unsure of how to treat his aunt. The cleric felt his confusion, and smiling suggested, <font color=navyblue>"I expect you are tired, Arlyth, perhaps, some rest would be in order?"</font> the boy nodded, and replied, <font color=skblue>"I accept, thank you."</font> <font color=navyblue>"Come, child. I suspect there is much to talk of. I should introduce you to your cousins, if you feel well enough?"</font> Arlyth nodded and replied, <font color=skblue>"Yes, I am."</font> he smiled and added, <font color=skblue>"Aunt Syqluis."</font> The cleric smiled, put her arm around his shoulders, and lead him inside the castle, to the hall outside the throne room, letting the boy take in his new surroundings, and linked her arm through her own. <font color=navyblue>"Now, dear nephew, you shall be anounced. Do not fear, you shall not be harmed, and indeed, you are an honoured guest. Be at ease."</font> She nodded to the guards, who opened the door, and the herald
went in.</font>


OCC, just for the record, since Sylquis was one of my old characters/NPCs, I'll RP her.</font>

The doors were pushed open, and the herald beckoned to Sylquis and Arlyth to enter. With an encouraging hand on the elf boy's back, Sylquis led him down a stretch of gray marble. Though he had little chance to look around, Arylth caught glimpes of extravegent tapestries, displaying dragon battles, and victorious charges of the famous Defarian cavalry.
Stairs rose up suddenly from the marble, and Sylquis stopped her nephew, then gave a low curtsey,
<font color=Navyblue>"Your higness."</font> She intoned, shooting a look at Arlyth that said he had better get on his knees.
Arlyth did so, and to his surprise, a pair of black boots suddenly appeared in front of him.
<font color=silver>"Rise."</font> A commanding voice boomed above him.

<font size=1> <font color=silver>Arlyth’Kaeion, sole Heir of his father's House, looked up from his knees at the speaker of the voice. He had been staring at the floor, and was thankful that his cloak had covered him. Still on one knee, he swallowed, and spoke, his tone soft. <font color=skblue>"Your Highness..."</font></font>

[ 09-09-2003, 09:59 PM: Message edited by: Calaethis Dragonsbane ]

Alaerth stared down at the elf in front of him. So this was his adopted cousin? He looked exactly like his father, judging from Verloren's descriptions of him. Not much for listening though. He reached a hand down and caught the elf boy's cloak front, lifting him effortlessly to his feet, and set him down gently,
<font color=silver>"I told you to rise, did I not?"</font> He took in the elf a moment more, then backed up the steps and seated himself on a throne. Arlyth noted a smaller one next to him was vacant. The way his cousin sat in that throne told him this was a ruler who wore his crown heavily, <font color=silver>"I am sorry that my sister is not here. We had no word of your coming. She should be here by twilight though, unless she decided to visit father."</font> A frown creased his young but tired face.

<font size=1> <font color=silver> <font color=skblue>"Forgive me, my lord."</font> the boy replied, <font color=skblue>"I was not aware that word of my arrival was needed..."</font> he gave a sidelong glance to Sylquis. <font color=navyblue>"Your Highness; if I may speak for a moment?"</font> Sylquis asked, and waited for his nod before continuing, <font color=navyblue>"Nephew, you wear magic that shields you from eyes, as I am sure you know; even had I known to look for you; I could not. Scrying would have proved futile, for you are hidden from my eyes."</font> Arlyth nodded slowly, <font color=skblue>"I...see."</font> he replied slowly, his tone and eyes respectful. Then he addressed the half-dragon again. <font color=skblue>"My lord, I would humbly request amnesty, and I beg your protection; I would plead sanctuary under your roof..."</font> he did not add, 'by right of kinship', though he could have done. Glancing at his aunt, he whispered, <font color=skblue>"I would also ask... to speak alone with my aunt, in private, if it pleases you. My father instructed me to deliver these to you;"</font> he handed two sealed letters; one to his cousin, one to his aunt.</font></font>

Alaerth grunted and took the letter, tucking it inside his silver coat,
<font color=silver>"My thanks. You are of course welcome to stay here as long as you wish. Since you wish to speak to Lady Sylquis, I suppose she can show you to your room. You will know when dinner is ready. You may go now."</font> The king's silver eyes left the pair and focused on one of his advisors who had been waiting to speak with him, an unmistakable dismissal.

After the two had left, Alaerth shooed his advisor away and pulled the letter out of his jacket examining the seal.
<font color=silver>~Such a strange world we live in. I wonder what Alliene would think about all of this?~</font> A breif thoguht to contact her passed through his mind, but he quickly tossed it, knowing she probably would punish him for disturbing her about matters of a child from a disowned cousin. He split the seal neatly with his thumb and opened it.

<font size=1> <font color=silver> Arlyth nodded, and conveyed his thanks, <font color=skblue>"You are most generous, my lord."</font> he bowed deeply, far more then he had to, and departed with his aunt.

~~~

Once inside his Aunt's chambers, the boy sighed and asked softly, <font color=skblue>"Aunt Sylquis... I..."</font> he sighed again, and looked around, <font color=skblue>"Might I rest a while?"</font> His aunt frowned at him. <font color=navyblue>"That is not what you were going to say, Arlyth. Please, we are family; speak your mind."</font> she smiled at him, <font color=navyblue>"No harm will come to you here; I shall care for you as my own. It is the least I can do, child."</font> the cleric said kindly. Arlyth swallowed, and looked at the floor, and took a step closer to her. <font color=skblue>"I... The Prince... he doesn't seem to like me. I... hadn't really expected a welcome here; but..."</font> his aunt placed her arms around him again, and drew him close. A flashback of how Calaethis had held her as a child came sharply to mind. <font color=navyblue>"Your reception wasn't exactly cold, dear."</font> came the reply. <font color=skblue>"I know, I know... its just... well... we're meant to be cousins and..."</font> Sylquis smiled and held him close. <font color=navyblue>"Yes dear, I know. Now hush. If you wish, you may rest in my room."</font> the boy nodded, glad to be around family in this strange place.

~~~

Meanwhile in the throne room...

~~~

Alaerth opened the letter. It read:

<font color=gold>"Prince Alaerth & Princess Alae. I greet you with warmth, and wish you both well. I would be more formal and less abrupt, but I have little time for pleasentries; let alone formality. As you may have gathered, I am Calaethis, cousin to your late mother, by adoption. Though I grieve her passing, and have not contacted you before, I would ask a boon of you. There is grave danger to your kingdom coming. Yes, I know how this sounds. And yes, I know what Alliene thinks of me. It matters little. What matters, is that this darkness may consume you. I will not go into detail, lest this letter fall into the wrong hands. I have written a second letter to my sister in law; and she will know what to do. I understand that Alliene will be visiting you soon. Doubtless she will not be happy to see Arlyth here. I would ask that you keep him out of sight, and out of mind. I would trust no other to deliever this to you; and though it is somewhat unhelpful, you should know that there is a darkness coming to your kingdom. I wish I could help you further, but I cannot.

Farewell."</font></font>

<font color=silver>"Wonderful...just wonderful."</font> Alaerth muttered, getting out of the throne and setting the letter on a brazier, making sure it burned away. As he turned to leave and go see Sylquis, he bumped into someone, stepping on their foot in the process.
<font color=pink>"Ow! What did you do that for?"</font> Alaerth directed his gaze down and found he had stepped on none other than his sister, Alae, looking dirty and sweaty, but still beautiful. He quickly jumped off and chuckled.
<font color=silver>"Sorry sis, I guess I didn't see you down there."</font>
Her fist thumped his chest, <font color=pink>"Very funny."</font> Her silver eyes sparkled as she looked up at him, but concern drew her brows together, <font color=pink>"You look distraught, brother. What is wrong?"</font>
Alaerth relayed the contents of of Calaethis's letter and informed her that his young son was here as well.
<font color=pink>"Wonderful...just wonderful."</font> Alae said when he was done, bringing a smile to his lips, <font color=pink>Well, Aunt Alliene will be here in a few days. Can we go speak with Lady Sylquis? I want to know what Calaethis told her about this."</font>
<font color=silver>"We can indeed. Lets go."</font>
Alae accepted his arm and the two made their way to Sylquis's chambers. Alaerth knocked once and opened the door, letting Alae step in before him.
<font color=pink>"I hope we are not disturbing you, Sylquis."</font> Alae glanced curiously at Arlyth before speaking, <font color=pink>"But we would like to discuss this note Calaethis sent us."</font>

<font size=1> <font color=silver> Sylquis looked up, and inclined her head. Now they were in private, she could be less formal with them. <font color=navyblue>"Children,"</font> she replied, <font color=navyblue>"This is really not a good time. Could it not wait?"</font> she said with a sigh, <font color=navyblue>"I have not even opened the letter from my brother-in-law yet."</font> looking at her nephew, she placed a kiss on his forehead, and told him gently in elvish, <font color=navyblue>"Go and wait in the other bedchamber. In fact, bathe and then rest for a while, my nephew. I shall converse with you later."</font> Giving him one last squeeze, she released him, and gave him a gentle push. Arlyth took a look at his cousins, and bowed deeply, and went off to do as he was bade. He was quite fatigued, and it showed. Sylquis had been addressing him as a child; not as a noble and the two waiting for her to address them could not really blame her for putting them to one side.

<font color=navyblue>"Now that the child has been seen to, what is it you wish to discuss?"</font> she paused, <font color=navyblue>"If you will give me a moment."</font> She opened her letter, and briefly scanned it, and smiled at it's contents. Then she looked at it again, and spoke a word in another language. Calaethis's image; an ethereal one formed in the room. It's resemblance to Arlyth was uncanny, though it's eyes were far older and wiser. Upon closer inspection, it's hair was different; and it seemed to have scales for skin. Arlyth was by far more handsome then the figure; strikingly so. But the image of Calaethis was no troll; indeed, by most standards it was incredibly handsome. It spoke.

<font color=gold>"Greetings Sylquis. As you can see, your sister and I joined, and I would formly welcome you, as my sister."</font> the image smiled. <font color=gold>"Though this image is animated, you may ask it questions; I have put enough magic into it; for it to answer as you would. Do not fear, for only you could activate it. Ask what you will."</font> It turned to look at the twins. <font color=gold>"And you... you are my cousin's children. I would appologise formally for not writing to you sooner, or in more detail. You will be unable to contact me, for by the time you get this, I will be long gone."</font> the image turned back to Sylquis. <font color=gold>"Your sister is safe and well, and wishs you all the best. The boy does not know of what will - what has become of us. He will not know until it is too late. Take care of him, please. I am glad to see you have propsered. I look forward to seeing you again, in the future. For we will meet. But for now, ask your questions."</font></font>

Alaerth leaned forward to get closer to the image. That was Calaethis? He noticed the golden scales right away and could probably guess why Avalon wasn't keen towards him and why Alliene had disowned him,
<font color=silver>"What is this danger that is coming to our kingdom? And what must we do to stop it?"</font> He demanded of the image. After his sister and family, concern for his kingdom came next.

<font size=1> <font color=silver> <font color=gold>"Of that, I cannot say. I know only that a darkness is coming; and there are demons behind it. Baator, or Tanar'ri, I cannot say; one of the two, definately. But I expect you'll have to deal with pit lords, and balors and all manner of nasty beings. I would advice you to seek out my one-time cousin; she will be more familiar with creatures such. As for how I found out... you need not know; only that it was at great cost to myself and to my other half. Have you any more questions, Prince? My time grows short."</font>

Throughout this, Sylquis had remained silent.</font>

Alaerth scrubbed his hand through his hair and Alae frowned.
<font color=silver>"How much time do we have? Matron Alliene will be here in two days."</font>

<font size=1> <font color=silver> <font color=gold>"Enough time, young prince. You have several weeks at least. However, I would have thought the sooner you set off; the better. I would also not trust this to any of your henchmen, but to go yourself. Your army will be needed to defend your lands... my suggestion is that you go in a small party, of no more then eight or ten at the very most. Six would be a better number. I would also advice that you leave a trusted advisor to watch over things until you return. Sylquis would be my suggestion; as family, she will not betray you."</font>

<font color=silver>"I do not wish to leave my city when it faces such danger."</font> Alaerth grumbled, and Alae set her hand on his shoulder to pacify him before he lost his temper,
<font color=pink>"Forgive him, Lord Calaethis, he puts great care in his kingdom. Where must we go to find these demons? I hope it is not far."</font>

<font size=1> <font color=silver> <font color=gold>"Then do not leave, young prince. Stay here and defend it. Send your sister in your stead. You may, or may not be able to avoid destruction on your own, Princess, but if your brother's will is to stay and fight the demonic hoards that will surely pour through the rift, then so be it. Many will fall, including the capital if this is not stopped."</font> the image paused. <font color=gold>"There is nothing to forgive, I understand his devoltion to the kingdom, and it is to be commended. However, in this case it is misplaced. It would be far better for you to attempt to stop the demons."</font> Sylquis spoke, her voice hurried, <font color=navyblue>"My lord, brother... what do you mean? Are you well?"</font> The dragon-elf's voice sounded again, <font color=gold>"My time grows short. I wish I had more time to converse with you; but I do not. You must travel to one of the planes, I fear. I do not know; ask Alliene when she arrives. And Sylquis, we will meet again, never fear. But for now, you cannot know; must not know what has happened to me. I... am... undergoing another change. Tyra is fine. However, I fear that Arlyth will be our only child. I know that you will care for him; and you have our blessing; do with him what you will; I - we trust your judgement entirely, dear sister.

You will not see us for at least another hundred years, I suspect. Take care, all of you; and farewell. I would say 'give my regards to Alliene'; but I doubt that she would accept them. Instead tell her that this darkness concerns her as well; and has spawned from within her home. The house we once defeated... well... they are involved. They're survivors at least. Tell her the time for petty hatreds is past; and she will need to aid us - you - if we are all to survive. Tell her that the Underdark will fall next. It is her that they are after as much as you two. They would wipe our linage from the face of the earth. All of us, myself, Arlyth, Avalon, Alliene and Sylquis included. They would also dispose of you two, my dear cousins."</font> Calaethis spoke, looking at the two half-dragons, his gaze both at once sharp and sympethetic. <font color=gold>"I would help further... but I have my own war to wage. If the gods are willing, we shall meet again before all of this is through. Do not try to contact me for your own safety. Now, farewell. And may the gods go with all of you."</font>

The image was fading even as he spoke the final words; leaving the room in silence. The only sound was that of distant splashing, as Arlyth was obeying his aunt in bathing; though it was quiet and muffled. Eventually Sylquis spoke. <font color=navyblue>"I... would wish to be alone for a while, children. I have much to think about, and would confere with my deity... but... if you wish to ask your questions, do so now."</font> the elven priestess swallowed, and both half-dragons could see she was almost on the verge of tears; she hadn't seen her brother in over two and a half centuries, or indeed, her sister and it was clear that she still loved them both very much. It was evident at least in the way she treated they're child. <font color=navyblue>"And children, I don't want to hear any comments about the outline of my brother; I'm sure you both noticed that he was more draconic then elf, and the vauge outline of wings. His neck is more arched then I remember it. I expect you both noticed the horns..."</font> she sighed, <font color=navyblue>"I had hoped he was over this... I see he is not."</font> she looked at them both, <font color=navyblue>"It is a long story, and I do not wish to repeat it, but after Calaethis left with my sister, he was almost elven again; the draconic changes gone from his system. Something has made them... begin again. My brother... used chaotic, wild magic at one point; and could invoke wild surges; I fear that he may have delved too deeply into it. Though, I suspect not. I would think... by his words... that he has to find answers himself. I wonder whom he fears. Or who his nemesis is... it does not matter. Ask me what you will."</font> she sighed, and sat down on the edge of the couch, guesturing for the two half-dragons to do the same. <font color=navyblue>"And Alae, I suspect your journey will take you far further then you could ever have suspected..."</font></font></font>

Alaerth had been pacing, obviously upset about this whole thing. His eyes were tinted a faint red, a sure sign of danger, which Alae quickly recognized. She gripped his arm and nodded to Sylquis
<font color=pink>"We understand, Sylquis. We will speak to you at supper."</font> The princess proceeded to drag her twin from the room, closing the door behind them. Alae turned to him, <font color=pink>"I know you are concerned for our people, brother. You should remain here. Aunt Alliene and I will go by ourselves."</font>
<font color=silver>"What!"</font> he roared, <font color=silver>"You'll be doing no such thing! I don't care how strong our aunt is, you're not going to face danger and certain death without me! What would I do if you died! Its-"</font> He choked off his words with apparent difficulty. A vein was popping out on his neck and his eyes were shining red.
<font color=pink>"Then think, Alaerth! Lord Calaethis suggested leaving the kingdom in Sylquis's care. You know she would do a good job!"</font>
Alaerth growled and stalked down the hall, leaving his sister in the hall. She sighed and shook her head, knowing better than to chase after him when he was in a mood like that. He would calm soon, as it was obvious being torn between protecting his kingdom or his sister was stressful. Perhaps she should use the mirror to contact Alliene. Her council would help set Alaerth's decisions straight.
Decision being made, Alae went up to her rooms where Alliene's mirror stood.

<font size=1> <font color=silver> Arlyth emerged from his bath, and dressed in silence. Knocking on his Aunt's bedroom door, as she was nowhere to be seen, he asked softly <font color=skblue>"Aunt Sylquis? May I come in?"</font> A muffled reply of <font color=navyblue>"Of course, sweetheart."</font> was heard, and Arlyth entered her room. Beckoning him over to the bed, she put her arm around him as he sat down. Briefly, she explained what had occured, leaving out a few minor details.

Afterwards, Arlyth nodded, and went to look for his cousin, Alae; leaving his aunt alone in her room. Where she began to summon her deity to confere with...</font></font>

Arlyth didn't know where Alae's rooms were, but a maid was more than happy to give him directions. He found the room easily, and the door was open. When he poked his head in, he noticed a large mist hovering in front of Alae. The mist dissipated and left a woman. A drow, most definatley, with ebony black skin and silver eyes that held none of the warmth he had seen in his cousins'. She was dressed in black leather, and a rather nasty looking 6 headed flail was strapped to her back, while two long swords were sheathed at her sides. Her smooth face seemed ageless, though he couldn't figure out why, she was twice the age of his father, after all.
This could be none other than Alliene. And at the moment, she looked very angry.

<font size=1> <font color=silver> Arlyth knocked polietly on the door, requesting an audience with his cousin, saying <font color=skblue>"Princess Alae, might I request a few moments of your time, I..."</font> he stopped, dead in midsentance. Just like that. He'd seen Alliene, and closed his mouth. <font color=skblue>"Pardon my intrusion, I was unaware you were occupied.."</font> he began, and shut up again. He wasn't sure what to do. There was no way that Alliene wouldn't recognise his linage...</font></font>

Alliene, who had been ready to hail words down on her niece, shot an acid look at the intruder breifly-then did a double take. Without thinking, a hand shot to Nizzre,
<font color=lightblue>"Usta!"</font> She snarled, half drawing her deadly blade before Alae caught her arm.
<font color=pink>"No Matron Mother! This is not Calaethis!"</font> Alae had figured this would happen.
Alliene paused, her cold eyes on Arlyth, freezing him in fear, <font color=lightblue>"Not Calaethis? Well, I see that you're right."</font> She released Nizzre's hilt and the blade slid back into place. Her eyes left the elf boy, and the wrathful gaze turned to Alae, who gulped, <font color=lightblue>"You failed to mention the son of the golden one,"</font> The way she said 'golden one' was obviously not a praise, <font color=lightblue>"In your haste to convince me to come early. Why is he here."</font>
Alae bit her lip, <font color=pink>"Matron, we had no way of knowing. He showed up at dawn without warning and bearing news about these demons." She shot an appologetic look at Arylth.</font>
<font color=lightblue>"I see. Where is your brother? We need to have a discussion."</font>
Alae sighed, <font color=pink>"Can it wait till after dinner, aunty? He is very upset...and needs time to cool off before you would speak with him."</font>
The look on Alliene's face said that wasn't the answer she wanted to hear, but she agreed anyway, <font color=lightblue>"I have some things to finish in the underdark. The news that that some members of the defeated house still live will be greatly disturbing to my priestesses. This must be stopped before they tell the High Council they live, or I and all of my House is dead before our time."</font> She shot one more glare at Arlyth before the mist enveloped her, then condensed and floated into the large mirror.

Alae breathed out in relief and sat back on her bed. She loved her aunt dearly, but her mood was totally unpredictable, and it was best to be quiet and not argue when she was angry. She smiled at the elf boy in the door,
<font color=pink>"You may come in now child, the Matron is gone."</font>

<font size=1> <font color=silver>Arlyth swallowed, and bowed deeply, far deeper then was required; deeper then a servant would bow. He seemed to be doing that a lot around his cousins, Alae noticed, and around his aunt. She also realised how afraid of them he must be... <font color=skblue>"My thanks, my lady. I.. I owe you my life..."</font> the young elf entered the room, his eyes slightly wild. <font color=skblue>"What...what did she mean?"</font> he was obviously refering to Alliene and to 'golden one'; and Alae realised in an instant that he did not know of the bad blood between her and his father... <font color=skblue>"What did I do?"</font> he asked at once, both confused and miserable. Alae suspected that he would not have questioned her like this, had he not been so shaken. He was terrified.</font></font>

Alae sighed and shook her head,
<font color=pink>"I cannot tell you for sure, little cousin. Your father and the Matron used to be very close, from what mother said. I think maybe Calaethis upset her severley over something, and it was hard for her to forgive him. Well anyway, when Calaethis first found out about his dragon form, he threatened to kill my father, which angered Alliene, for she and him were...are still actually, very close. Then Calaethis threatned to kill her, and she disowned him. I only know these bits and pieces. Matron Alliene refuses to speak of him, and my father...is reluctant to say the least."</font> Alae pushed her silver hair behind her shoulder and dropped her chin onto her hand, apparently thinking, then she smiled at him, and waved him into the room <font color=pink>"You didn't do anything, but obviously one so similar in looks to a person she hates would upset her."</font>

[ 09-10-2003, 07:01 PM: Message edited by: Lady Blue03 ]

<font size=1> <font color=silver> Arlyth swallowed again <font color=skblue>"Father did what?!"</font> his eyes were wide, and full of shock. <font color=skblue>"I... I had no idea. Why would he do such a thing? Mother... she mentioned a disagreement between Aunt Alliene and Father, but would not talk of it; saying only that Father was a child at the time, and he was... changing; part dragon she said. She wouldn't tell me anymore, and Father would never speak of it to me. He said that I did not need to know, and it was best I did not..."</font> the boy swallowed, <font color=skblue>"If... if my presence causes her discomfort, perhaps I should leave...?"</font> Arlyth drew back slightly, involentarily taking a backstep towards the door. <font color=skblue>"I... forgive me for disturbing you, my lady."</font> he swallowed again, still trembling slightly. Alliene had obviously shaken him deeply; and he seemed afraid to call Alae 'cousin'.</font></font>

<font color=pink>"Do not despair, little cousin. Alliene will not harm you. The only advice I could offer is to stay out of her way, and don't give her a reason to be mad at you, as I foolishly did."</font> She smiled, <font color=pink>"And you are not disturbing me. It is good to talk to one of my kin. I don't get many chances to do that, you know. Only Alaerth and your aunt are close."</font>

[ 09-10-2003, 07:16 PM: Message edited by: Lady Blue03 ]

<font size=1> <font color=silver> The boy shrugged uncomfortably <font color=skblue>"I... I don't know. Perhaps I should leave; then I would be out of Aunt Alliene's way..."</font> he shivered, and looked at the floor. <font color=skblue>"My presence here was untactful... I should go."</font> he didn't say that it was because of him that Alae had gotten into trouble with their aunt; he didn't have to. He obviously blamed himself though. <font color=skblue>"By your leave, my lady?"</font> he asked, bowing low again, waiting for her permission to go.</font></font>

Alae stood, crossing her arms,
<font color=pink>"You may not leave."</font> She crossed the room and picked him up under his arms (a good deal better than Alaerth's way) and sat him on the bed, then took a seat in a chair next to him, <font color=pink>"Now you listen, little cousin, and mark my words well. It is not your fault that Alliene hates you. It is her own fault for not forgiving Calaethis as she should have. But that is in the past. She will see that you are not Calaethis and treat you better, I am sure."</font>

<font size=1> <font color=silver> Arlyth's eyes widened, and almost instinctively, he threw her arms around her neck, and whispered <font color=skblue>"Yes cousin; I'm sorry. I'll listen."</font> he trembled, <font color=skblue>"Its just... I'm so scared. She would have killed me... and your brother..."</font> the young elf's frame shook, <font color=skblue>"...he scares me too."</font> he blushed. <font color=skblue>"I know I didn't send word... and I didn't expect to be welcomed with open arms... but... I didn't expect such a cool reception... the only person who seemed truly happy to see me was Aunty Sylquis..."</font> the boy sighed, and held tightly to his cousin.</font></font>

Alae chuckled and hugged the young elf back,
<font color=pink>"You need not fear Alaerth. He really is a sweetheart."</font> She frowned, <font color=pink>"I suppose it is partly my fault. We rule this kingdom together, you see. But I find ruling drab, so I leave and go to the forest, leaving Alaerth to deal with problems by himself. Ruling a kingdom such as this is not easy, and it tires him so."</font> Her face fell a bit, <font color=pink>"I really shouldn't leave this burden on him. It makes him irratble. But don't worry, when he's not surrounded by officals and palace nobles who constantly bug him, he will warm up."</font>

<font size=1> <font color=silver>Arlyth shrugged, <font color=skblue>"If you say so..."</font> he said, a little dubiously. <font color=skblue>"I've never had the chance to rule a kingdom..."</font> he blushed, <font color=skblue>"I doubt I'd do very well anyway... and it sounds rather boring to be honest."</font> he snuggled up to his cousin, resting his head on her shoulder. <font color=skblue>"Thank you."</font> he whispered, <font color=skblue>"...for not judging me by my father's actions, I mean."</font> Without thinking, the boy climbed onto his cousin's lap, his head still resting on her shoulder. <font color=skblue>"I... guess I didn't make too good an impression. I would have spoken earlier, when I saw you in Aunty Sylquis's rooms, if you recall? But... as you know, she told me to go and bathe."</font> Arlyth looked uncomfortable, <font color=skblue>"I didn't mean to be rude... it's just that... well, she reminds me so much of my mother... the way she holds me; the way she looks at me... I just obeyed her without thinking."</font> he paused, and smiled slightly, <font color=skblue>"She's very beautiful and kind, isn't she?"</font> he finished snuggling closer to Alae, waiting for her to wrap her arms around him.</font></font>

Alae smiled fondly at the memory of her childhood and rested her chin on top of Arlyth's head,
<font color=pink>"She was younger than you are now when Alaerth and I were born. When your father and mother left and gave Sylquis to my mother for clerical training...well, we grew up together, so she is more like our big sister than our cousin."</font> She busied herself with arranging pieces of his hair, <font color=pink>"As for your father, I never knew him, but it is wrong to assume every child is like their parents, as Alliene does, even though Calaethis is wise now. He acted foolishly in his youth, and look at his relationship with Alliene-or the relationship that isn't, I should say."</font> She stood, and set Arlyth gently down on the floor. He could feel the raw draconic power flowing through her even now, <font color=pink>"I should clean myself up. Alaerth would appreciate my company right now; he does so hate to deal with bothersome noblemen and their daughters."</font> She laughed.

<font size=1> <font color=silver>Arlyth smiled somewhat, and hugged his cousin again, <font color=skblue>"Do you address her as 'aunt' or 'aunty' then?"</font> he wanted to know, meaning Sylquis. Looking at his cousin, he could not help but feel her draconic power, and he stiffened slightly, but made an effort to relax, and whispered, <font color=skblue>"Might I accompany you to see your brother, my cousin; or would you prefer I went back and saw Aunty Sylquis, giving you two some time alone? I'm sure that you'd like to speak privately to him about Aunt Alliene..."</font> the boy paused, and smiled at his cousin. He was obviously far more at ease around her then he had been earlier and gave a wicked grin, <font color=skblue>"You know..."</font> he said slyly, <font color=skblue>"You could introduce me to some of these noblemen's daughters."</font> he winked at her, awaiting her reply; fully expected her to swat his backside.</font></font>

Alae tsked at him,
<font color=pink> "A little early to be thinking about women!"</font> She scolded as she led him to the door, <font color=pink>"Your aunt may or may not be done confering with her goddess. I'll need to talk to my brother alone, for he may still be upset."</font> She unbuckled her mother's sword and tossed it on the bed, then turned to Arlyth with a smile, <font color=pink>"If you need something to do, why not take your stallion out to the castle grounds? It is very beautiful out there, and sometimes you can even see my father watching from his cave."</font>

<font size=1> <font color=silver> Arlyth smiled, <font color=skblue>"I was only joking, dear cousin,"</font> he replied with a large grin, <font color=skblue>"Hmm. I don't believe I've met your father... er, is he as scary as Aunt Alliene?"</font> he asked, with a shudder. <font color=skblue>"I... I woudl like to meet him; he is my uncle after all... what do you think?"</font> the boy asked, clearly seeking his elder cousin's guidance.</font></font>

<font color=pink>"No he is not as scarey as Alliene, but he is still not on good terms with Calaethis. Don't worry, he would not attack you if he saw you,"</font> she quickly reasuured him, <font color=pink>"But he holds his pride close, as any dragon does."</font> She unhooked her cloak and tossed that on the bed as well, <font color=pink>"Meeting him is out of the question for two reasons. One, it is a four day journey up to his home; time we do not have, and two, I don't want you going up there without Alaerth or I to accompany you."</font> Her tone was a serious warning, <font color=pink>"Understand?"</font>

<font size=1> <font color=silver>Arlyth bowed his head, and replied <font color=skblue>"Yes Alae... but; I know the spell dimension door... I could in theory, open a portal there which would take us directly there without the four day journey needed..."</font> he swallowed, <font color=skblue>"But I won't go there without you; you have my word."</font> he went to one knee and shyly kissed his cousin's hand, <font color=skblue>"I promise."</font> he looked up earnestly at her, seeking her approval.</font>

<font color=pink>"Father has had his home long since shielded from such spells as those,"</font> She said with a smile, and patted his head, <font color=pink>"But thank you for listening. I'll see you at dinner, little cousin."</font> She stepped back and gently closed the door.

<font size=1> <font color=silver> Arlyth nodded, <font color=skblue>"See you at dinner, cousin."</font> he replied, and went off for a ride with his stallion.</font></font>