The Ceremony of Handfasting - Chryil 22nd Early ET

[Ulder]

***

There were not many sandy beaches on such a rocky island as Citadel was. Most of those were either hidden or hard to reach, nestled in the calm bays isolated from the incessant beating of the ocean waves. The Sleeping Dragon Bay was such a place, jagged rocks reaching almost a hundred paces into the sea, like a pair of arms, bending inward and leaving only a narrow passage, perhaps ten paces wide through which the sea flowed into the serene pool. Gentle waves caressed the rough sand of the beach protected from the raging sea by the almost cruel looking rocks that reached into the sea.

A narrow and twisting passage was the only way to reach the hidden cove from the island, the way barely wide enough to allow two men to walk side by side. It stretched for almost a hundred feet, the tall rocks overhead shutting most of the light away, only the noon sun having any chance of illuminating the cold and darkened passage. After the final bend rocks underfoot suddenly gave way to coarse, rough sand though the way was bared once more mere feet away from the passage’s end, by a huge smooth rock stretching the length of the beach. A single arch to the right was the only way to reach the sea beyond.

It was not until one reached the beach itself that the stone drew the attention to itself, the other side looking somewhat out of place due to its smooth surface, but did not have the gasp-drawing ability the sea bound side had. Shaped like a slumbering dragon the arch was revealed to be a passage under its mighty tail, its head resting upon a pair of clawed paws. Rough hewn, it was still detailed enough to arouse suspicion that it was either made by a hand of a man or that the legend of the Slumbering Dragon of Citadel was true. There were many versions of the tale, but all agreed in one thing. The dragon that slept after so many years had been a mount of a leader of men who had built the mighty fortress in the times long gone. Even though the legend was most likely just a fanciful tale the dragon still lay there, serene as the small bay it protected.

***

Some grooms were nervous and jittery, others we're at the edge of their sanity. Ulder was neither as he checked on the decorations and the way the small bay had been prepared for their ceremony. He was actually quite calm and steady as he thought about the day before him. This day had been a long time coming, or at least it seemed that way because he had been looking forward to it over the last months. No other decision had come so easily to him. There was no fear, he knew with unwavering certainty that he wanted to be with Elaine for the rest of his days, and therefore being nervous about it seemed strange and alien from the other grooms he had any experience with.

He walked to the Bay alone, comfortable and contemplative in his relative solitude. Thavia had been a tremendous help in preparing and planning for the wedding, leaving him to merely check in on her progress every now and then as the day progressed. When he reached the end of the narrow, dim passage, he took in the view with a appreciative gaze.

The sandy beach of the bay had white chairs set up for the guests to sit in, and a runner of white linen forming an argent aisle between the rows. Bouquets of white roses were practically everywhere and the groom didn't even ask how Thavia had accomplished such a feat. Small containers were at the base of each row and hanging from the last chairs on both sides, as well as surrounding a small raised platform where they would stand for the ceremony. It was a fitting place, natural beauty mixed with stylish decoration, a true way to honor the Mother. It was truly elegant and aesthetic, and the fragrance of the flowers mixed with the gentle tang of salt from the sea. It was absolutely beautiful and when Ulder suggested that it be visually appealing for the guests, as well as soothing to Elaine's other heightened senses, he never dreamed it could so appealing to everyone. He made a mental note to single out the young Thavia for special commendation for her hard work and enthusiasm in making this a wonderful event for both the wedding party and the guests. She had worked tirelessly with Elaine and himself in making this a day to remember.

He took a look at himself one last time. He wore a rust colored doublet of fine velvet, and tailored breeches of black. He had buffed his boots to a high shine and he checked them one last time before stepping into the open. His hair, once shaven completely off was now thick and short, and he ran a hand through it one last time. Many might question such a color for a wedding, but it was a special homage to the Mother. It was the color of earth, the color of blood and the color of gold all combined, and it was his own silent tribute to the God of his beloved. He wore something simple and elegant himself, something that many would not have seen him wear before, a gentle and genuine smile.

It was a beautiful setting, and he went over to the beginning rows of chairs to make himself visible to greet the guests that soon be arriving.

[Claire Owens]

Never again, Claire decided. No more beach weddings, I will insist.

It had seemed like such a good idea at the time. Catering for the Special Occasion. Raising the Simple Pleasures' profile amongst the Who's Who of the Citadel. All they had to do was bake a cake. Easy.

No, all they had to do was bake a HUNDRED CAKES. Alright, this might have been an exaggeration, but adapting to the peculiarities of the sandy, outdoor location had stretched Thoman's abilities to the limit. The Pleasure's resident baker and pastry chef had truly outdone himself, creating tier upon tier of iced, buttery cupcakes to serve to the wedding guests. Each cake was decorated with small, white sugar roses, to complement the rest of the decorations. Mounted on silver platters and draped with a gauzy veil to protect them from the sand and salt, they looked wonderful and tasted better. But by the gods, they had been a long time in the making.

Running a later than she'd hoped to be, Claire was currently attempting to navigate a cart of said cupcakes through the narrow, twisted passage which would lead to the cove where the ceremony was to take place. She'd almost toppled the entire construction before deciding to dismantle it, and reassemble at its destination.

With one last bump, the rocks beneath the cart finally gave way to sand. Flushed and puffing, the tawny-haired achadiel towed it to one side of the passage then sat herself down on a nearby boulder to recover. Dressed in a simple gown of cobalt blue, with her carefully curled locks now dishevelled, she would not be outshining any of the guests who would no doubt be arriving soon, but that wasn't the point of the outfit. Elaine Bannon would be the star of the day, the shining light in the lives of everyone here to celebrate her joy.

Despite the difficulty she'd just endured, Claire was glad to be a part of this. Even if it was only a small, peripheral part of no great importance. She didn't know why, she just was.

EDIT: Changed my post to reflect the fact that there's more people here!

[Grey Wolf]

She stood there, looking quite like a general reviewing his troops before important battle, her sharp, green eyes flashing this way and that, glaring and mutely directing the last preparations. A gentle touch to the chair here, lining it perfectly with the others in its row. A low rustle as she readjusted an out of place bouquet there. The place looked near perfect, but that was simply not enough, and Thavia would not relax until the actual ceremony was over and everything went without a hitch. She smoother an invisible wrinkle in her grass-green dress, and shifted her shoulders to readjust her cleavage for less exposure. This was Ulder's and Elaine's wedding and they were to be the stars of the show. Everything else was secondary to that.

Noticing Claire she made her way to the girl quickly and took a deep steadying breath to chase away the tension that was threatening to make her snap at anyone or anything. "Do you need help dear? I can direct a few men to help you carry the cakes." She cast her glance towards the nearest pair of liveried servants and they were at her side immediately. "Help Miss Owens with her chores and get back to your posts as soon as you are done. And mind the clothes. This has to be perfect." She flashed an encouraging smile at the young girl, before turning to glare at the loud crack that sounded behind her.

Luther Dethrek cursed silently as his rough hands slid over the wooden surface of the casket two of his men carried. Thank the Molten for the padding. "Mind yer step fools. The casket is part of the gift." He backed out of their way and nearly stepped on Thavia's skirt, the Dortish girl sweeping it away with a restrained shriek. "Watch it." The dwarves emerged from the passage, carrying a rather large casket, made out of a deep red wood, reinforced by intricately crafted steel framework. The lock looked intricate and rather complex and surprisingly it lacked the key. Luther himself carried a much smaller case under his arm, this one crafted from silver, with a tree done in gold inlaid on the top of it. Both he and his men were dressed in heavy flowing robes of dark grey, with intricately embroidered hems done in silver thread. From the look of it it was not simply silver colored thread, but actual silver and the robes looked incredibly heavy. Their beards and hairs were carefully combed and left to fall down their chests and back, the braids nowhere in sight this day.

"Sorry 'bout that lass. But I needs to get the present in place. Me lads are strong, but this thing's heavy as molten iron." Thavia simple huffed at him and moved out of the way, the dwarves gently lowering the case to the ground and then taking positions on the each side of it, nodding as Luther gave them final directions in dwarven and moved near the seats. The small beach was slowly filling out as people trickled in through the narrow passage, with a small detachment of Imperial Guards arriving and positioning themselves around the perimeter in anticipation of Caesar's arrival. A number of former Purple Guards have showed up as well, most of them looking somewhat awkward in the formal attire, and unarmed.

[Claire Owens]

"Yes, help would be appweciated. Thanks Miss Thavia." Claire flashed a smile at the busty blonde Dortswoman and another at the two gentlemen who had stepped forward to give her a hand. She didn't actually need them to do much - just to help her move her cart to the place where the cakes were to be set up. Before long, everything was in place, looking as picture-perfect as Thavia would have wished.

It seemed that she would have a little free time before the handfasting ceremony was to begin. This worked out rather well for the young achadiel, as she had hoped to have a quick word with the groom before the actual ceremony began. However, she had never met the man... or any of the other guests present, for that matter.

What she needed was a friend - someone to help her figure out just who the hell everyone was so she wouldn't embarrass herself if she was expected to know. But everyone seemed to be busy.

She looked around until she spotted a tall man in a rust-coloured doublet. He stood by the chairs and did not seem to be doing anything in particular. He was little too well-dressed for her to hold a proper conversation with, but good enough if all she needed was simple directions.

"Excuse me sir," Claire approached him a tentatively, hoping she wasn't being too bold. Then suddenly, her neck straightened and she looked up at him directly. Gods damn it girl, don't sneak. You're representing the Pleasures and as good as anyone here, remember?

"I was wonderwing... do you know if Mr Synkaawos is here yet? I have a message for him."

[Ulder]

Ulder stood by, watching as a few guests and others began to trickle in. He shook hands with a few of his former guardsmen and he looked upon them still with great admiration and respect. He had been lucky to be their Captain once, and he still considered those chaotic and turbulent days as some of his best.

He spotted Luther leading a contingent in, and they seemed to be carrying something with them. It looked an awful lot like a casket to him, although Ulder could not begin to fathom why someone would bring a casket to a wedding. He appreciated the effort they took to carry the enormous thing this far down to the beach and was about to go offer his assistance when someone interrupted him.

Her voice was nervous and thin, and the accent was... interesting as well. He tried to set her nervousness at ease and smiled gently.

"I am Ulder Synkaaros... The groom...." He clarified, just in case she didn't know who he was. "I would love to hear whatever message you may have for me, miss...?"

He left the end of the question open, prompting her for a reply of both her name and whatever message she was to deliver.

[Tristam]

A plump woman of middle yahren arrived in a robe of new leaf green. Mother Abeaja nodded in approval to see Thavia dressed in a similar color. For this was the time of rebirth and growth and it was right to wear Nature's colors. Beside her walked an older dwarven lady leaning heavily on a wooden cane. Her blond-grey hairs were braided stylishly down the whole length of her back. The simple green tunic and reddish skirt she wore reminded onlookers of the garden she tended. Zersa had not left her garden for yahren but she would not miss this day.

The two gardeners spoke eagerly of plants and growing things as they made their way down the beach. Two young acolytes in orange and red followed behind chatting quietly. Each carried a small cloth sack in one hand and a stick of sweet smelling incense in the other.

[Rosalie Marcada]

Rosalie arrived with her escort in a carriage with the Coat of Arms of the Mouth and that of the Condotierre proudly displayed. She wore a layered dress of shades of yellow and gold, her bodice amber in the same shade of her eyes, the dress sprinkled with fascinating embroidery that twinkled with a hint of crystals cut to look like diamonds. Her skirt was wide with a crinoline beneath it and while her neckline was dazzling low, displaying an ample chest, she wore a golden shawl draped over her arms to give her just a hint of modesty. She smiled at her fiance, the last day that she would be able to call him such. Tomorrow her own wedding take place and it would be dramatically different from this one. "Shall we," she offered with her husky voice "It seems we are a bit early, but that can't be helped."

Rosalie of course expected Marcada to get out first and help her get down the steps with her troublesome skirt. The demands of fashion were sometimes high. Her amber eyes already spotted former captain Ulder who appeared to be talking to ... The lady from Simple Pleasures. It is good to see business does so well. Rosalie's smugness only played in her eyes, never reaching the rest of her face.

[Claire Owens]

"I am Ulder Synkaaros... The groom.... I would love to hear whatever message you may have for me, miss...?"

"Oh! O-Owens, sir. Claire Owens. Fwom the Simple Pleasures Cafe. We made your cake. Well, actually Thoman did but it was an honour that our shop was chosen sir, thank you." The freckled girl bobbed up and down in a motion that vaguely resembled a curtsey, then stuck out her hand for a handshake, not quite sure what the correct etiquette was in this situation but covering all the bases, just in case.

She felt a bit like a mouse in the presence of a sleeping cat. If he had known, this may have seemed a little unfair to Ulder, who was, after all, smiling benignly down upon her like a contended god; but in her heart of hearts, Claire was still a rogue, and this heart was finding it difficult to accept the notion of resting easy in the presence of a copper - even if he wasn't actually a copper any more.

Still, she somehow managed to steel herself and get the message delivered. Practicing had helped. She'd been running the words over in her head all tradetide.

"My boss, Mr Silverflame couldn't make it today, but he wants me to personally send you and Miss Bannon his congwatulations and best wishes. Everyone else at the shop does too, sir." By this point, Claire was actually managing a gap-toothed smile, remembering how excited all the Pleasures' staff had been at being asked to take part in the celebration of one of the Citadel's most famous fairytale romances.

She cleared her throat before continuing on to her second point. "Um.. also, this may sound a little odd but we thought it best to let you know that there was a dark adhiel gentleman at the cafe today looking for a swordsman he could do business with. He wishes to begin a school of tuition in the use of blades, and we thought that perhaps this was an opportunity that either you or one of your fellow guardsmen might find appealing. If you like, I can give you his name..."

She let the suggestion hang, watching the former Guardsman's response.

[Raevyn D`Altamooriana]

Fate was a peculiar thing. Especially when it came to Raevyn and her never dull life. It brought her from being a mere weaponsmith's daughter, a path in which she thought she would follow in her father's footsteps, to becoming a high ranking Emerald Guard. It had followed her from humble beginnings in Gulanadur to the hot desert sands of Amun Rah where she had mingled with the very gods themselves.

Why else would it be any different here in the famed Citadel? The assassin was almost certain that there would be very few people if any that she would know, or that knew her. Yet in one day she had came across the path of another dark adhiel that she knew, but couldn't decipher just who he was yet. Also and perhaps even more mind boggling was the fact that Ulder was here as well.

Something she found out purely by luck, and the gossip of the local townfolk. It had been quite some time since the two had met. Two lowly guards guarding a caravan on it's way from King's Court to Taquar. They had fought side by side against orc raiders who had attacked the caravan seeking to loot it for themselves. Yet they had fought them off with the aid of guards as well as three Emerald Guard escorts.

Raevyn had made a nice some of money on that trip thanks to her investment and her negotiating triple the pay that the other guards had received. She also went on to stay in Taquar instead of going back to King's Court. It was the last time that she had seen, or heard of Ulder.

Until now that is. Of course Raevyn was going to make a statement. She would have it no other way. Upon hearing the news of his wedding she promptly went and purchased one of the best dresses that Audrey's had to offer. Again fate played it's part. She had found a midnight green velvet dress that luckily need little to no alteration. It didn't come cheap either and Audrey drove a hard bargain. Raevyn had to have this outfit however and was determined to have. So she payed the price Audrey demanded walked out satisfied.

It was the perfect dress in Raevyn's mind. It would match her natural complexion perfectly. It also helped accentuate Raevyn's slender curves. The dress also was one that would portray her how she wanted to be portrayed, as a well to do lady. She would't have the look of some mere peasant or the cold hearted killer that she was.

Once she was back where she stayed she quickly got cleaned up and changed. There was no time to have her hair done so Raevyn opted to just come it out to it full length and leave it at that. Even though this was a wedding, Raevyn never went anywhere unarmed. Her two assassin's daggers were soon sheathed to her wrists as well as the two that she kept sheathed around her calves.

The dark adhiel was truly anxious to see him again, yet she wouldn't show that emotion too much when she saw him again for the first time in a long time. Raevyn wanted to see how he reacted to her first, most notably the look on his face when he saw her dressed as she was.

She arrived and saw him talking to another woman. It didn't look to be his wife though. Raevyn walked up to the two and stood a few paces behind the woman that was talking to him. When his eye met hers, Raevyn would say just two words, "Hello Ulder."

[Ulder]

Mister Silverflame...?

Ulder searched his memory for any mention or meeting with a Mister Silverflame. Granted, his days in the guard and his many meetings at post made many faces blur before him, but in this case he was certain that he had never met anyone with such an unusual name.

"Thank you Miss Owens. Please pass along my gratitude to Mister Silverflame and to all those back in your shop. I truly appreciate all of the hard work you've put into this special day. You and your co-workers have made it all the more precious to me and Elaine with your efforts."

Her next point brought him to stand in a more curious state. Dark Adhiel? A swordsman he could do business with?

It's sad how I can stand at post and protect the lives and safety of the people here and have them know so little of what or who I am. A school for teaching swordsmanship? Interesting...

"Yes, please do. I'm not sure I have anything to offer the man, but it's worth a conversation to discuss it."

Ulder looked up and found himself staring at another Dark Adhiel. This was a young girl, nearly a woman, and for a flicker or three he didn't even recognize her.

"Hello Ulder."

It was the voice that brought the face back from the depths of memory to the forefront of his mind.

Raevyn...

Gods above and beyond!

The last time they'd been face to face was at the end of the caravan. She had been leaving to follow Theorn and the Emerald Guard back to Taquar. He had been leaving with Penth on his own path to return home. Even though he had not made it back, destiny had another fate in store for him. Never in a million yahren had he thought their paths would cross again. Yet here she stood.

He glanced back to Claire just to keep himself from gawking like a bumpkin at her. He had been a simple young man then, and the time between those days and this had matured and changed him. The surprise was evident in his tone and expression.

"Hello Raevyn. I fear you have me at a loss. I had no idea the news of my wedding would reach so deep into the west. How in the name of the seven hells did you ever stumble upon word of my handfasting day?"

[Raevyn D`Altamooriana]

Oops I guess I should've went into better detail of that in my post. It still works though.

"It has been some time Ulder," Raevyn started in response to her long lost, and almost forgotten about caravan partner. Her use of the common tongue had been steadily improving and she was able to converse better than she had been before in the foreign tongue. So long as the conversation wasn't too intricate she was able to do well understanding what was being said.

"I found out here," she then answered him. It was the truth of the matter and she had no idea just how far the news of his wedding had spread. She had overheard the conversation of this event on her way to The Simple Pleasures possible, or maybe at the temple of The Mother. It could've been in between as she couldn't quite recall exactly where she heard news of it.

That was followed by a brief flicker of of awkward silence as she stood there looking at him. It was nice to see his face after all this time, and she took a small amount of comfort in that. If his actions were a sign of sorts that she had made quite the impression on him, then her plan to do so had worked.

"You are happy then, yes," she asked him. Raevyn had never been to a handfasting ceremony before and didn't know what to expect. For all she knew it could've just been a big party. Or even worse, been a funeral, in which case she would have been horridly overdressed for the occasion. She knew that people were married however, like her parents were. Yet they were married well before she was born and had never attended such a formal event.

[Grey Wolf]

It was no coincidence that Thavia was the Dort Embassy greeter and Ambassador’s personal secretary. For all her blonde bubbliness and carefree ways, the woman was an able organizer and for every little tidbit of gossip she revealed, she overheard three more. Her eyes scanned the area where the ceremony was to take place and with a few short orders helped Claire direct the servants to move her cart, and then made sure they took their proper places. The guests were starting to trickle in, and the presence of the Imperial Guards was a sign that the Caesar might make an appearance soon. Not quite sure of the relationship between him and the happy couple, she moved to rearrange the seating somewhat and separate a few chairs so as to give a bit of room to the Imperial ruler, and also to make him feel more secure. Hardly necessary, since the Embassy guards were posted in discrete locations around the small beach, more out of precaution than any real danger. With so many important guests, the danger of a trouble was very real.

Marcada’s own escort seemed feeble compared to Rosalie’s, the ever present Deacon riding alongside the coach driver, the master and bodyguard dressed in deep green outfits, though admittedly Illish’s own was a bit more opulent, with a brocade of leaves upon the coat. With his leg healed, the man had worked hard to regain a bit of his youthful strength, though the yahren had not been easy on the Baron. Still, he managed to literally leap from the carriage, wide smile belaying his fine mood, a hand offered to help his wife to be dismount. Her Condotierre escorts split up, a pair remaining to watch over the coach and horses, while the other two fell into step behind them, allowing Deacon to be their true escort, the large man following the pair closely. Illish motioned towards where the soldiers wearing white tabards and black cloaks. “Well, we shall have to wait for both the bride and the Caesar. It seems he will grace the couple with his presence at their ceremony. A bit surprising, don’t you think?” He guided her to a set of seat near the front, letting her choose whether she wanted to sit down or remain standing. Spotting her, the Imperial Mint waved and smiled at Madam Ambassador.

More people trickled in, Chancellor Anzilo arriving alongside Simon Ginneke, the mage vigorously explaining something to Hector, who nodded and whispered something that caused them both to chuckle. Moving to the side they continued their conversation in hushed tones, though it was more out of politeness than secrecy. Behind them followed a man whom many would find different than before, his telltale armor and tabard gone, though the blond paladin still cut an imposing figure, in his royal blue suit. Ambassador Hagen of the Western Kingdom swept his blue eyes over those already gathered and moved to take a sit as far away from Rosalie’s as possible. Ulder and Elaine might serve the Empire, but they were both born in the Western Kingdom and thus he was there.

[Claire Owens]

Claire nodded at Ulder. "His name is Jadmai Av'Zathrak - " was all she managed to get out before she realised that someone else was waiting to speak to the former guardsman.

Another dark adhiel? This one a female... Claire did not recognise Raevyn from earlier in the day, her eyes having passed only briefly over her while she was wearing pale makeup to hide her colouring. The achadiel smiled at her and examined her more closely now - perhaps she stared a little, but no more than she would have at any new acquaintance.

The fine dress marked her as a woman of some means. A friend of Jadmai's? Claire wondered, looking around. She saw a whole lot of people she didn't recognise, and Lady lo Russo (who she would wave at if she managed to catch her eye) but the Amunian Ambassador was nowhere to be found.

Well, even if he had already arrived it was no problem - Claire had said all that she really needed to, and it would be out of her place to take up much more of Ulder's time. So while the former travelling companions reqacquainted themselves with each other, she stood demurely to one side and waited for a chance to excuse herself.

[Elvin Motricé]

Elvin nodded to the persons he knew while he walked past the gathered people, searching for Ulder. He turned to his companions for a moment: "Mingle with the guests if you want, I need to talk to the groom for a moment," a smile played around his lips, "Don't try to let too many women swoon, would you?"

The Professor sure was a stunning appearance in his new robe made from a finely woven silvery grey fabric that seemed to reflect light. Black boots and a black piece of cloth that served as a belt complemented the ensemble. It was easy to spot Ulder as the former Captain stood next to one of his dark-skinned kin. "A dark Adhiel? That's a first..."

The sorcerer approached Ulder and nodded: "Hello Ulder," he turned to Raevyn and made a small bow and added in Adhiel, "Seodhiu ta eabh inaidha, achroiliel."


OOC: Seodhiu ta eabh inaidha, achroiliel - I salute the world in you, lady (polite form)

[Syra]

A big man stood on the sidelines, his arms folded lightly as he surveyed the goings on. Rusty hair and a wild beard caught the sunlight in a coppery whole, strangely matching Ulder's outfit. A younger man stood next to him, looking very much like the older one. He grinned and poked his father in the side.

"She's gonna do it...she's actually getting married and not giving a damn about the rest! Perfect!" Jonah flashed a broad smile, proud that his cousin was overcoming the racial prejudices she had known in World's Mouth.

Nathan's smile was more conservative, but his brown eyes were shining with pure enjoyment. "She is...and the smart one she is. It's a good guy she got there." He peered over at Ulder who was entertaining some of the guests. "Where is she anyway?"

"You know women." His son grinned. "A little bit of this, a little bit of that...I think she's in that tent over there and I SWEAR I heard some cloth rip!" He laughed out loud, seeing the nerves appear in Nathan's eyes. "Kidding, dad, kidding. I'm sure she's fine. Everyone's fine. Now, let's have a look at the female bounty of today..."

His eyes moved over the crowd in a practised way, earning him a thwap from the big man next to him. "HEY! Dad! I was joking!"

[Elaine]

Elaine felt her cheeks burn as Becca helped her readjust the flowers that had been blown out of her hair. It was just as well the tent was here for 'emergencies', however small this one was. It was good to have a friend near to help out with the little complications that came with being blind. It wasn't often the girl longed for sight, but this was one of them.

She sniffed up the sea air, mingling with the flowers in her hair and those in the immediate surroundings. The Achadhiel had to smile. There was nothing to be nervous about other than a certain apprehension that Ulder would be called away again like he did on their last date. Other than that, everything would be fine. She had never been more sure about anything than this.

They were marrying.
It was right.

A giggle escaped. "Becca, I am happy! It's actually going to happen and...I don't know...I'm just happy! Could you please try to get those flowers at the back? I feel a stem tickling my neck."

Sensitive fingers stroked the dress down. Audrey had told her all about it, trying to use words that the blind woman would understand. Yet the true reward would lie in how Ulder would see her. After a long period of deliberation the tailor had decided upon a warm yellow, slowly turning into earth tones towards the hem. It would match with the colours Ulder had chosen, but not by copying them but rather by adding to the picture of earth and sun.

Elaine was grateful for the open sleeves, making it much easier to move around in. She knew that Audrey had chosen a sash for her to break the continuity of the dress on purpose. Supposedly it echoed the more earthly colours of the hem, adorned with a simple copper clasp. Now if only the cloak would not sag like she was afraid it would, everything would be just fine.

Luckily the fabric that hung down from her shoulders was very light, falling over her back like soft sunshine as the goldthread picked up every bit of light. Fastened on her shoulders, it still revealed the open backline as it only came together somewhere halfway down. According to the tailor it would catch the wind easily, making up for the slightly heavier silk that was used for the dress.

The girl already spotted her uncle and cousin from their voices. Ulder was there too, of course. His presence was easy to spot. Whoever else was there, was welcome...but really only one man mattered.

"Ready, Becca?" It was fortunate to have gotten to know the girl better after their strange first encounter. She was a lively one, full of sparkling energy. Elaine liked her. The girl was real, did not care much for the workings of social masks. It was a breath of fresh air. "I think many people have already arrived. We shouldn't keep them waiting so long."

[Ulder]

A name like Jadmai Av'Zathrak would be an easy one to remember. The former Captain was certain they'd never met before and so he filed the name away mentally along with a note to seek the man out, or at the very least be aware if he showed up.

"Thank you Miss Owens."

He turned his attention to Raevyn, listening to her explain briefly of how she even knew of this place.

"Yes. Happy indeed. It has been a long time, but it seems you've worn the time well."

He tried to compliment her, remembering that she was a young girl that needed such support. When he had first met her, there was no way he could have ever imagined standing here speaking to her in this way. Combat and trial by fire had matured and aged him. He was no longer the innocent and somewhat naive young man she likely remembered.

"That's a beautiful dress and you look lovely today. I'm not only thankful to see that you still live, but that you seem to be flourishing. I appreciate you taking the time to come today."

Ulder's watchful eyes flickered over the arriving guests. The guards were taking up strategic locations around the beach. Ambassador LoRusso. Marcada. Anzilo and Ginneke. He didn't even recognize Hagen for a moment, but swiftly realized who it was after a double take. His eyes traveled over to where Luther and his contingent still setting up... whatever they were setting up.

Ulder smiled. This was a momentous day, and it seemed that despite all the trouble and death that he had been a part of, there was a touch of healing and hope in the sea air.

Mother and the Gods bless you Elaine. Look at the healing you continue to forge...

He noted the arrival of Mother Abeaja and Zersa as well as the familiar form of Elvin arrived.

"Hello Elvin. Namaste."

He hoped he used the traditional Adhiel greeting correctly. He'd asked Elaine to teach him some of the language of her other heritage, and they had started with the simple greeting. He hoped that it would surprise Elvin and Raevyn as well. He liked to keep people guessing even now.

He couldn't help but realize how much he was enjoying this day.

[Becca Acerbi]

"How," Becca wanted to know, half-laughing, "Are you less nervous about this than me?" She caught at the flowers blowing loose and quickly wound them back into Elaine's hair. Part of her really wanted to use a little magic - just to conjure up a few little - no, bad line of thought. Becca had made a point to make Elvin promise not to use magic at the wedding unless something went rather desperately wrong (which it wouldn't, because if it did she was going straight to the temples to yell at the gods for messing up the one day they weren't allowed to), and it wouldn't be fair if she used magic when she wasn't going to let him. Still... "Aren't you supposed to be the one panicking, not me?"

Becca grinned when Elaine spoke, twisting the errant stem back into place. "I should think you are happy! You've been waiting for this, haven't you? And gods know you deserve the happiness - just for putting up with me!" She was glad Elaine had put up with her, and nearly everyone else had been as well - the woman had been something of a calming influence. Or at least, that's what people had telling her; all Becca had noticed was that Elaine was a good friend, and possibly the only woman (who wasn't a professor or a panling) that Becca could talk to.

On impulse - and really, was there any other way she did things? - Becca flung her arms around her friend and hugged her quickly, and with surprising care - if she rumpled Elaine's clothes at this point, there'd be trouble. "I'm happy for you. And I'm sure I'm supposed to have something suitably sappy and chirpy to say at this point, but would the 'I'm happy for you' do?"

When Elaine asked if she was ready, Becca's grin spread into a real smile. "No." She sounded quite cheerfully resigned about it, resting a hand on Elaine's arm to guide her. "Let's go anyway."

[Raevyn D`Altamooriana]

Raevyn smiled,perhaps blushed even, well blushed in that rather unnoticeable way that dark adhiel blush at Ulder's compliments. The time apart seemed to have done him well Raevyn figured. He seemed more refined, and well rounded, and he was about to wed. Yes the time had done him well.

"Thank you Ulder," she said and gave him a slight bow of her head. Something which she was almost certain that he never thought he'd witness her doing, especially towards him. She then continued.

"I would not miss it for the world my friend," the assassin then added. Friend, a word that would either catch him off guard, or make him wonder just what it was that the young adhiel was up to. Afterall, they had lost contact with each other some time ago. Not only that, she was certainly not friendly at all towards any of her fellow caravan guards on that fateful, yet lucrative trip.

"I have done well for myself Ulder, in the time that we have been apart. It seems you have done well yourself," she said continuing to speak the human tongue. "Perhaps in the near future, we can catch up on old times as you humans like to say," she finished with a smile.

A smile that was then turned to the adhiel that had joined them. He greeted her in a way that would flatter any woman and she was appreciative of it. It was the first time in quite some time that she had received such kind words and she returned the greeting in kind.

"Nice to meet you," she said in her native dialect, "my name is Raevyn."

[Rosalie Marcada]

Rosalie gave her intended a brilliant smile, exuming an air of confident elegance, sure of the adoration of Marcada. Really, who could touch her? Things were going forth as planned and the only minor irritations were her soon to be stepchildren and in her ignorance as to what kind of creatures they were she was confident she could control those nasty little twits.

Rosalie was slightly annoyed her Condotierre escort split up. She supposed there was military reason but they had done that in the Divale and it didn't work out. Plus, she brought the bright shining uniformed men ot impress and how could they hanging in the back? Ignoring her own irritation she turned Ilish with a smile "Yes, but he was always a very hands on man, even before his election," Rosalie remarked with some amusement "It seems the Ceasar is fashionably late though I hope he arrives before the bride." It seemed however he did not, for then the Ambassador noticed the bride, that very same woman that had been abducted by some great blob of jelly in a most horrific scene she didn't like to recall. Rose squeezed Illish "The bride is here. Now we wait for the Ceasar." Arrogant man. Stealing attention away from the bride. I should have thought of that.

Rosalie moved through the pews and selected a seat. Just before she sat down she waved enthusiastically at Luther Dethek. Now there was a nice supportive man to which she had taken an instinctive liking despite him not being human. I'm not a racist after all she thought arrogantly.

There were unpleasant people there too of course, as there always would be on occassions like this. Anzilo was one she had to work with, but hadn't necessarily to like. Mmm. What is he talking about with Ginneke? the merchantprincess wondered. They are awefully pleased with themselves. Then she froze for a moment. The Dirty Paladin. Quite deliberately Rosalie rose her nose an inch and then turned her back on sir Hagen.

[Andolin]

Really, the traffic was horrendous. One would have thought that the Caesar's vanguard would have managed to navigate the streets of the Citadel more efficiently.

At long last, Andolin and his squad of bodyguards arrived at the wedding. It was just in time it seemed. Elaine had just arrived.

Dressed in a smart purple tunic with golden trim, the sword of Anochrim hung at his side. One servant that followed him with a large golden box, containing his wedding gift for the couple.

Not a person that had ever been constrained by shyness, Andolin moved towards the front row to be seated. He would save his congratulations until later.

[Elaine]

"How can I be nervous about outward appearances when all that counts is standing right there on the beach, all in one package....all in one man?" Elaine countered, nodding as she felt the flowers slip in without falling down again.

She absolutely refused to think of the possibility of Ulder being called away again like last time. This time there was no Purple Guard to call upon him, no matter how it pained him that his favourite organization had been abused like it had. And despite all Elaine's hopes that he might find a new goal in life like the Purples had been, this moment was theirs and theirs alone. They'd manage. He'd get there. He was simply too practical to sit still and do nothing. There would be opportunities for the man to grab.

"Oof!" The blind Achadhiel laughed as Becca hugged her and returned the favour. "Thank you so much, Becs. Leave the sappiness behind. It's okay. I'm just happy too."

Elaine quickly turned the tables by putting her hand on Becca's arm instead. "Easier to follow." She explained as she took her staff - a strange reminder of their fight to the death- and moved out of the tent to join the guests....and Ulder. "Lead the way." She mumbled, enjoying the sound of the rustling fabric immensily already.

[Claire Owens]

Introductions were made, pleasantries exchanged. Nothing was said that was of any particular interest to Claire so she made a note of the names mentioned (Raevyn, Elvin) and faded into the background, amongst the liveried servants and other assorted support staff.

While the guests were filing in and admiring each other, there was very little for her to actually do. Rather than standing around looking bored, the achadiel decided to make productive use of her time to look for a few contacts amongst the people here. From behind her mountain of cupcakes, she sifted the growing crowd for an unoccupied servant or a bored-looking guard - someone connected to one of the "identities", who might care for a bit of flirting or idle gossip, not necessarily in that order... but before she found anyone a radiant blonde woman emerged from a tent on the arm of a ginger-haired girl. Claire's attention was instantly distracted.

The waitress couldn't see the woman's eyes from where she stood, but did she need to? The staff. The dress. The way she tilted her head, regarding the world through her delicate ears. Only one person she could be.

Wow. No wonder Synkaaros looks so happy.

[Grey Wolf]

There were not a lot of people present at the ceremony, a total of perhaps fifty or so already gathered, but the actual guests were quite a bunch. Friends and family made up most of that number, though of Ulder's family there was no trace, but it was hardly surprising given the latest rumors coming from the King's Court of political upheaval and drastic changes taking place. It was then that a somewhat pudgy looking man entered, wearing a simple dark suit, and made his way to Ambassador Hagen, leaning to whisper something into the Paladin's ear. Former Corporal Ciccone came bearing good news and the blond Ambassador smiled broadly and nodded, sending the man away running.

The number of Imperial Guards quickly grew as the Caesar himself arrived, Captain Summers leading the small detachment of soldiers protecting his person. His eyes quickly scanned the area, and a faint hint of a smile curled his lips up as he could not help but be pleased with the efficiency and skill of both his man and whomever had organized the whole affair. Thavia came forth to greet the Imperial ruler, ushering him quickly to an isolated seat near the front, the seats around it cleared away to give him a modicum of privacy. She did not linger for long, the Dortish clerk rushing to be close to Elaine and Becca should they need assistance, but did not say anything, respecting the blind bard's independence and ability to take care of herself.

When Antoine's head peeked around the bend in the passage, Hagen nodded and rose from his seat making his way to where Ulder and Raevyn stood, bowing in greeting and pausing till he had their attention. "Captain Synkaaros I am sorry for the interruption, but if I may have a moment of your time?" He paused once more politely before pushing on. "While your service and your greatest deeds were in the name of the Empire, the Western Kingdom is where you were born and our nation would like to present you with a rather unique wedding gift on this day. I understand the custom is to present the gift after the ceremony, but the nature of the gift is such that I think this will be more appropriate." With that he stood aside, and motioned towards the passage with his hand, drawing attention to the trio arriving through it.

Kercher Synkaaros looked rather out of place in the setting, glancing over his shoulder and muttering something to the pair of women behind him. The suit he wore appeared new and custom made to fit him rather well, though he kept fidgeting as if it chaffed him somewhat. Royal blue with silver brocaded hems, it faintly followed the cut of the Kingstone Guard uniform. His wife Sophia was dressed somewhat conservatively as far as western fashion went, but the silk dress she wore still looked lovely upon her, the color of it ranging from deep red at the bottom to almost bright orange around her neck. It was Ulder's sister Serah behind the pair that drew the most attention. Deep green dress of a rather daring cut, flowed about her body, her hair kept up by a number of silver pins, she wore a smile that only enhanced her radiant looks. It took her a flicker to focus her eyes on Ulder flashing a smile at her baby brother, before she spotted Elaine. Without any concern about manners or such silliness, the girl all but ran to the bride's side and drew her into a tight hug, whispering into Elaine ear. "Hello, sister to be. We came to give my baby brother to your care. Think you can keep him safe?" Kercher simply shook his head, smiling at his daughters directness, and led his wife towards his son and Ambassador. Hagen took a step back and let the family have their moment. "Son..... It's good to see you." The old man seemed at a loss of words, his wife, clutching his arm tightly and crying freely, though a smile was permanently etched upon her features.

With nearly a score of Imperial Guard present at the scene, Rosalie's quartet of Condotierre would hardly be noticeable, though the two men keeping watch at the either side of Madam Ambassador and her future husband did look resplendent. Compare do them Deacon looked strangely out of place, though the older man did not seem to care. "And here he is." Illish whispered as Andolin appeared, and was ushered to sit in front of them, a few feet to the front and slightly to the right. It was then that she felt a hand on her shoulder and the soldier standing behind her leaned to whisper. "Corporal Ciccone is here, Madam Consul." The man's eyes moved to the side, but by then all she could see was the large Corporal's departing back. He returned less than a burn later, bringing a trio of people with him. "Captain's family? I heard he was from somewhere close to King's Court."

[Ulder]

"Please excuse me Raevyn, Elvin. There are some others that I need to greet. I hope we will get a chance to speak more later."

Ulder watched as more people trickled in, and smiled at a few of the new guests, including a nod of the head to the lovely Ambassador Lo Russo. It was the Caesar's arrival that took Ulder, not so much by surprise, but with a great deal of interest in the way he watched Captain Summers' men fan out and take positions throughout the area around him. Admittedly, they did their job with a functional efficiency, but they lacked the ability to blend and be largely invisible the way the Purples once had.

One guard at the entry point to the beach isn't enough, get another one over... there you go...

Captain Summers seemed an able Commander, but the former Captain could help feeling that the once mighty Purple Guard would have done a better job of establishing themselves before the event even started, and thus appearing as part of the ceremony, they would have faded into the background. This new Imperial Guard did the right things, but they lacked the same style and polish in doing them.

Perhaps over time they w....

It was Elaine's arrival that made him forget all about being a Captain and how he would have done things differently. He watched her come in with all the regal grace of a queen and he could feel his heart and blood racing. It was nearly a burn later when he realized why he was struggling to stand still, for seeing her face had taken his breath away and he had forgotten to breathe. He took a few deep breaths to compose himself and regain his wind. He smiled at Becca for assisting her, and was about to go relieve the young mageling of that responsibility when Ambassador Hagen's countenance filled his vision. At first, he didn't understand the nature of what the Ambassador was referring to, but at seeing the faces of his parents and his sister Serah, he then understood rather clearly.

"Thank you Lord Ambassador. You've just given me one of the best gifts I ever could have hoped for. I sincerely thank you."

He smiled at his mother's tears as he hugged her closely. "I'm so happy that you all are here." He watched his sister head straight to Elaine. There would be plenty of time to catch up with her later.

He then shook his father's hand. "Good to see you too! Thank you for coming. We have some seats for you down in front. I hope you won't mind sitting next to someone rather important. You'll need a proper introduction to Caesar Azarin."

Ulder motioned for his parents to walk towards the front rows of chairs and he followed along behind them, trying very hard to suppress a grin at his all time best chance to not only make his father squirm, but also to make the Caesar a bit uncomfortable as well. Kercher Synkaaros was a man prone to be opinionated and blunt when it came to his views on the Empire and its more decadent ways, and Ulder could not help but think that despite his father being on his best behavior, some of that had to trickle out and reach the Caesar's ears.

Once they arrived, he introduced them to Andolin.

"Lord Caesar, may I take a flicker of your time? I'd like to introduce you to Kercher and Sofia Synkaaros, my parents. Mother, father, this is Andolin Azarin, the Lord Caesar of the Seven Isles."

Ulder laughed inwardly, wondering if he had enough coin to bail his father out of near certain time spent in the dungeons. To be honest, he didn't expect that his father would say anything, or be anything but courteous and polite, but Andolin had been known to rub people the wrong way from time to time and one really never knew. If nothing else, it would give his father a chance to brag back home that he met the most powerful man in the Empire...