Valusia XXII

---

Something nagged at Lily all night and she did not sleep well, as if she knew a coming storm was on the horizon. The city was quiet and she and Da'Karis had turned in after a good evening meal and some training of the mental kind. He was sleeping softly after asking her if something was wrong.

Eventually Lily got up quietly, softly assuring Kar that she was fine. She got dressed and took her blades to the training space they often used, she began to go through the elven steps of swordplay. Just like mkother did, just like Lyriel did too. It would help her get.more settled. After all once Kar woke and they got breakfast she was going to call on Darryl to explain what she was doing and where she was.

Once Da'Karis woke up he noted that Lily was wanting to do something, "there is something bothering you and I suspect you wish to call for your brother. I will stand with you and try to explain what has happened."

"Thank you." Lily says giving him a kiss to his cheek, she sighed softly then. She fingered the bracelet around her wrist. She had been wearing it for a long time now, and she had gotten accustomed to it being with her. She slowly took it off however, and dropped it to the ground. She felt like her wrist was cold now, but she softly called for her brother. "Darryl? Can you hear me big brother?" She asked the empty air.

And nothing happened, no Darryl just appearing. It was just her and Da'Karis standing alone in his room. "do you think something is wrong lily?" he asked looking around.

"This isnt right... he can always hear us... he told me so!" Lily said looking at Kar worriedly, she stepped further away from the bracelet then and tried again. "Darryl!" She called his name again and when no answer came once more she grabs Kars shirt. "I dont understand..." she mumbles softly, ahe was trying to think.

"Could he be busy, or asleep perhaps?" Da'Karis offered unsure of what was supposed to happen when

"Busy maybe... I dunno about asleep... what time would it be in Andor? In Bearlon?" Lily asks softly, "either that or... my Uncle has done something to block me from contacting any of the family." She says softly chewing on her bottom lip. A bad habit she still had.
she called for her brother.
"It would be early there." Da'Karis said holding her closer to him. "Perhaps we should see what your uncle is up to maybe that will make things clear."

"Ugh... it's probably the only way." Lily says laying her head on his shoulder, perhaps this was why she was feeling antsy today. She stooped down then and picked up the bracelet again, who knew
if it would come in handy.
"We will eat and then head out to his estate and see what we can find." he said letting her go so he could wash up before breakfast. "You have not told me much about your family." he said removing his shirt.

"There's... so much to tell hahaha" Lily laughs nervously as she too washes quickly and dresses for the day. "Is there anything you want to know? I won't hold anything secret except for the family secrets and personal ones too of course." She said speaking quickly but still not as much as she first did.

"I know there are a lot of children, how about your brothers and sisters?" he said sitting down and checking his equipment. While just scouting, no one could guess any issues that might pop up.

"Okay... um I guess I'll start with the oldest, Lyriel is a Drow, mom found her stealing from then during the aftermath of the Dragonwars. Lucas is next though he was mother and fathers ward not child... um then Elsa, my father rescued her from Illian when he was a slave gladiator." Lily says ticking off her family members on her fingers. She was highlighting the moments they were brought to the family. Lily was taking her time talking, she clearly missed them all. "After Elsa was Mathius he was another one that tagged along, and Darryl, he's the Psion. Mom got him when his mother tried to sell him to a dark priest. Um my brother Conner is my twin, we were born before the others were brought into the family... Mom was captive of my Uncle Galin, she killed him later at their forced wedding. Since half elf pregnancies last an entire year it wasn't long before my little brother Daniel was born, he likes architecture. Then mom had more twins. Orissa and Samantha, Orissa is a sorceress, Samantha is a magical null. Then came Sirrian, and Alurra is the last one... she should be almost three by now." Lily sighs softly sitting down.

After some discussion and going over it several times Da'Karis was able to list them back by time in the family. Elsa, Darryl, Lucas, Conner and Lily, Lyriel, Mathius, Daniel, Samantha and Orissa, Sirrian and lastly Alurra. He shook his head, "And they all live in one house? It must make getting privacy a hard to come by luxury."

"Well the house was caught on fire once so mom had it rebuilt much bigger, now it's three stories with two towers and an attic, and a basement where mom made a hot spring." Lily said before launching into the details and layout of the house.

Once they finished eating, Da'Karis had them dress more plainly before they headed off to Galin's estate. "No need on letting your uncle know we were here looking for something you think he might be doing. So, you need to get changed into this outfit I got a couple days ago." he said opening the wardrobe.

"How did you know what my size was?" Lily asked softly as she looked at what it was he was showing her. She was curious, about his knowledge and what it was he had gotten, not to mention nervous just in case her uncle caught them snooping, or was doing something bad.

"I have seen and touched all of your body without clothing Lily, it is nothing to get clothes that would fit you." he said with a small smirk.

Lily instantly went red, from cheeks to forehead to chest as his words registered. "Kar!!!" She gaspedd out his name highly embarrassed he would say something so bold. "There's a difference between measurement and sex!" She said her face still a bright red.

He approached her and turned her to the mirror, "You think so Lily? I know that your waist can less than half be encircled by my hands." he explained by loosing her pants and showing her. "And I can tell you the width of your shoulders and hips the same way." He lifted her chin and leaned forward to kiss behind her ear. "I committed every inch of you to memory and could not forget you in a million years."

Lilly's blush darkened as her pants slid down and his arm wrapped about her waist. Her green eyes wide watching him kiss just behind her ear. It made goosebumps raise along her skin. The way he spoke was... very arousing and the words he said were poetic in a way. "Then... I have to work harder to know all of you better too." She whispered softly in return, the mirror was a change to actually see him behind her.

The hand at her waist began to move up undoing the buttons of her shirt, spreading open as it went showing her stomach and skin. "You've done an amazing amount of work Lily." he said as he opened the last button and spreading her shirt open wide. Looking over her shoulder as they gazed at Lily's body in the mirror.

"Th-thank you." Lily all bit whispered softly, the blush stopped at her elbows and just seemed to touch where her stays held her breasts. Her panties too were the only things covering her, as she stood in front of the mirror, her eyes glued to his face. He was so focused on seeing her in the mirror, so focused on her. She wanted to cover up, she wanted to turn around, she stayed because of his eyes.

Still his eyes watched hers as his left hand extended across her stomach to take her right wrist in it. Then his right moved from her hip crawling slowly across to gently whisper across her underthings then begin to move up under their arms to lightly trace the curves of her breast. Da'Karis didn't look away his eyes stayed looking into Lily's in the mirror, she could hear his breathing deepen as he touched her skin.

Lily's breath became uneven, her blush still deep but she was mesmerized, his eyes so dark watching her face, his hands so capable of death skimming the surface of her sin so lightly. Goosbumps rose over her skin where he touched, her body began to respond, her nipples peaking beneath their bindings, her womanhood became warm. All in the mirror she could see the concentration on his face, the slight bowing of his eyebrows, the small uptilt to him lips, the daily stubble on his jaw.

He turned her counter clockwise until she faced him and he drew her into a long kiss and his arms. Da'Karis had read about seduction and such but never thought he would use it, until Lily came along. There was something about her that made him hunger to be with her, however he could not but his finger upon it. His hands now behind her made short work of the bindings and let them fall away letting her breasts free.

Lily moaned into the kiss, her own arms wrapping around to clutch him tightly against her. Her bindings held in place between them. She could feel his hunger for her pressed this closely and she fidgeting against him a little bit.

Da'Karis continued the kiss and let his fingers slip under her panties moving them further down her hips until they fell to the floor.

Lily by now had completely forgotten her plans for the day, as she felt him remove her coverings slowly. She shimmer out of them and then broke the kiss and stepped back letting her chest binding fall too. She was backing up toward the bed, her blush firmly in place but her eyes roamed his clothed body.

Da'Karis removed his shirt and moved toward Lily, when her knees hit the back of the bed he lowered her back and then knelt between her legs. Leaning forward her brought his mouth to her thigh keeping his eyes towards her's then moved with purpose. His tongue slid along her sex and then inside it, tasting his lover's excitement. In all things he wanted Lily to understand that taking one's time was it's own pleasure.

Lily's breath caught as she could see his chest and his tattoos, it was a sight she loved looking at. She had no choice but to lay as he directed her body, and she couldn't close her eyes or look away because his eyes kept her own locked. Her thighs trembled and her stomach tensed as his tongue slid inside of her. Her eyes lost focus and she let out a low moan somewhat resembling his name. She spread her legs further to make better room for his broad shoulders.

Rather than force them too far, Da'Karis placed her legs upon his shoulders and used his fingers to spread her sex open. Using her bodies cues he licked and nibbled upon her bringing her closer to the edge of a climax. Her breathing was helping his tempo and her low moan spurred him on.

Lily's moans didn't stay low and in fact she struggled not to draw him tightly against her sex with her legs. She clutched the sheets and writhed beneath him. Her breath was labored as she got ever closer to her orgasm, he was relentless in his pursuit of it and she cried out, clutching her breast and the sheets as she came.

He held her and continued to pleasure her, he wanted her to have another climax and then be truly ready to join each other again.

After prolonging her orgasm and driving her to another Lily cried out "please! Don't make me wait! Kar! I need you!" Lily whimpers as he seemed to not want to leave her. She ached to feel him for real and she didn't want to be the only one feeling good. She tugged gently at his hair, wanting him so come up and into her. She spread her legs once more, trying to tempt him.

He smiled and gave her one long last lick before raising off his knee and lowering his pants and moving to her. Da'Karis took hold of himself and slipped easily into Lily letting out a deep groan as her body gripped him. Leaning over her kissed her deeply swirling his tongue with hers, he could find contentment in being like this with Lily.

Lily moaned and panted as he entered her all in one motion. Her body clung to him and tightened as he filled her, her hands clutched his arms. Her lips parted eagerly for his own, she had become a good partner with him as her teacher. She wrapped her legs around his waist and gyrates her hips, trying to bring him more pleasure as well.

In response he sped up and changed to angles in which he entered and withdrew from her. He released her mouth and lowered his to her neck licking and kissing along her jugular vein as his hand stroked her back and held onto her hip.

Lily moaned at each thrust and cried out when he changed the angle of his entry, she tilted her head slightly giving him access to her neck, Lily reach back and grabbed the headboard as she arched her back and met his hips with her own. Not much longer and she cried out arching against him eyes going side as a powerful orgasm swept through her thanks to Kar.

The hand on her hip slid back to hold her tightly against him as she then he began to climax. He could feel his manhood twitch deep inside Lily, they rode uot these feelings until they lowered themselves to the bed fully relaxed.

Lily panted for a long time savoring the feel of him laying on top of her. This had to be her favorite moments, when they were joined... worn out and he lay all his weight on her. Lily could feel the warmth of his seed and knew the tea would prevent anything from happening, she took comfort in that fact. She runs her fingers through his hair and hums softly the elven lullaby her mother always sang to them and then Conner when he took to the Bardic arts.

Da'Karis continued to strok Lily and breath in the smell of her skin while listening to her. "Shall we take a second rest before heading out to recon your uncle's house?" he asked. It would be nice not to worry about the man, but to settle her worries he was prepared to do anything.

"Mmhmm." Lily hums her agreement, before continuing the lullaby softly. "It's funny... how I can feel your essence in me... so hjot when you you let it out and then cool when you leave me." Lily says softly still running her fingers through his hair, she had little to worry about at the moment. Though she certainly hopes Darryl doesn't pop in at the moment.

"Would you prefer I keep you warm as much as possible?" he asked moving his hips a little bit. His hands came up and gently played with her nipples before kissing her deeply again.

Lily squeaks and moans softly her body clenching around him tightly as he teased her. He wasn't overly hard but she knew if he really wanted to he would get hard again and thrust for real. She covered his hands with her own and made soft feminen noises as he abused her nipples. She closes her eyes for the kiss and leans into it her own tongue coming up to play more demandingly this time.

"If you continue to play like this, I will join with you again and we won't sleep a wink." he teased before kissing her again. His hand rested on her buttock and played with the soft curves.

"Kar you big meanie... you are... mmm... the one playing with me!" Lily moans and kisses him back, speaking in between kisses. Her whole body shuddered, she was always so sensitive after sex, "we just woke up! It's not even noon!" Lily giggles and wiggled against him as his hand hit a ticklish spot.

He smiled as she giggled, nut his manhood twitched inside her again. "Careful my lover, you'll wake it and there is only one way to make it sleep again." he said kissing her again.

Lily groaned softly at feeling him move inside of her, into the kiss "Then don't tickle Me! It's unfair how I'm ticklish but you aren't." Lily pouts cutely running her nails lightly down the back of his head and down his shoulder.

"Well, then I will not tickle and we can just get a little sleep." he said with a smirk. Gentle he rolled her nipple between his fingers and kissed her deep again.

Lily moaned again and arched her chest into his hands, then once more relished in a kiss between them. Kar seemed unable to get enough of her at the moment and she didn't know why or what was different from normal but she wasn't complaining either.

---

Alehial was finishing a cup of tea when Galin came down the stairs, "Good morning, Alehial. Did you enjoy looking around the house and gardens?" He had a seat and ordered a couple eggs and sausage with bread, cheese and coffee. Already he was prepared for barbs and insults, but she had asked to come along and see Lily. It might only make his plans harder, but he lived for the challange of everything.

"There's no real trees here, But the flowers are beautiful." Alehial says calmly, putting down her empty cup. She had been getting impatient waiting on him, not to mention the butler's attitude here. Alehial sat primly in the dress that had been adjusted to her sizes, a red one Sarah did not often wear because she knew Galin prefured blue. Compared to Sarah Alehial was a few inches shorter, her hair much more gold and red than just brown, her green eyes were vibrantly green, like new grass. Alehial had even left her hair completely down a look Galin might not have seen as it reached the middle of her back. Her slight almond shaped eyes looked at Galin out of the corner and she pursed her lips.

"You seem out of sorts today Alehial." he commented looking over his coffee cup. "I had them pull the carriage around so we could head into the city so you can knock on Lily's door and speak face to face. You could at least try a smile for me or manage a thank you." he said sitting the cup down and having a bite of bread.

"I have thanked you. And I have waited, been patient, as you said you would find Lily... bring her home then promised to find Xeph. You told me not to go to Lily, that she will run, that she will hate Me! Now you say you want a smile? Fine." Alehial had stood so suddenly her chair had fallen back with a scrape and loud bang. She had her hands on the table in fists on either side of her cup. At the end of her tirade she takes a deep breath and let's it out, stands up properly and turns to Galin facing him properly. Alehial then gives a courtly curtsy, "Thank you Galin for all you have done." She says before tilting her head up and smiling graciously at Galin.

"Ugh. Be morose rather than that." Galin said with a look like he tasted something foul.

Alehial laughed then. A truly joyful from the belly kind of laugh as she stands up properly, she sobered up then and bent over picking up the chair and retaking her seat. "Tell me... why you think Lily won't run and hate me now, versus yesterday." Alehial said then crossing her legs, ignoring the slit that opened and showed off her legs. She tilts her head looking at him as he continued calmly eating.

"Who knows, maybe you can explain how you got here. Or seeing you will make her just happy to see you. I've almost given up caring, I mobilized hundreds of guild members trying to help you just to be met with ire at every step. You'll do as you want and accuse me of being evil and blah, blah, blah." he said picking back up his cup and draining it.

"You quit caring? I find that hard to believe, after all getting annoyed means your still invested." Alehial said before standing up gentler this time, and fluffing her hair over her shoulder with her hand. "I'll go out on my own then. There's nothing I can't handle here in this place. Land of slaves and killers, perfect place for you and I don't you think?" Alehial said tilting her head at him. "Just tell me where my daughter is. I can handle the rest, since you don't care." Alehial said.

"Oh, yes I can see the chaos arising if something were to happen." he said looking at her. "Oh Gods! Galin Ravenwood whisked Alehial away against her will to a foreign country where he left her all alone. She was beset by horrible creatures and people and was seen again! It's all his fault, let's string him up!!" he teased as other people, "Most likely being led by your husband no doubt."

Alehial narrowed her eyes and straightened her back further. "Leave Altair out of this." She said stiffly, trying to keep her ire at bay. She closed her eyes and sighed relaxing slightly, she opened her eyes and began to leave the room. "Tell me or don't. I'm leaving the house and going into town. If I have to go as a cat to pick up my daughter's scent I will." Alehial spoke, her words more a promise than a threat. Like stating a fact.

"Did I not help you find him all those years ago?" Galin said, "Let me finish my damn breakfast and we will go into the city together. And I will stay yards away while you have your reunion." he said taking another bite of his eggs. He almost dared to ask how much more dificult this woman could be until he remembered she was Alehial Ravenwood.

Alehial grinned a secretive smile then. Getting Galin to bend to her whims was surprisingly easy. She had thought he would be much harder to push around, turns out he might be just as frustrated as she was. "I'll give you time as I dress and armor up, i do hope you damn eggs are still warm." Alehial says softly, trying to keep the teasing tone from her voice. She needed to remain calm, but honestly she felt like throwing up after dealing with Galin again. Her worries, her fears, not to mention she was alone here.

"No armor, no weapons." he said, "City watch is less than accommodating like Baerlon. If you don't believe me then try your luck. Something small and concealed would be better." he took another bite before putting his fork down. "Besides I'm ready now and I need to stop by the guild house and check on the situation there."

Alehial turned around and frowned heavily at Galin. "So I am supposed to go in this dress? With you." She arched one brow in curious demand. She had no way to tell if what he spoke was the truth, she sort of was forced to believe him though. She crossed her arms under her abundant chest to continue her look at him. "Yo u want me to enter the guild as well?"

"So, now I must take you shopping as well? You demand a lot Lady Ravenwood, and I do not know if you could live up to the Guilds standards." he said teasing back. He got up from the table and put his napkin down. "Decide quickly what you wish to do see Lily as you are or risk being jailed for wearing armor and weapons in the city."

"You are the one who made me come with no clothes or gear but for what I had on me." Alehial said frowning, she wanted.more time to think but Galin kept changing the pace of conversation. "Fine, I go in this. Let me get some daggers." Alehial finally said dropping her arms to go upstairs and at least arm herself.

By the time she returned he was waiting in the foyer for her. "How do you get anything done if it takes so long for you to get ready?" he taunted her. Then turned and walked out to the carriage, he opened the door and held out his hand to help her inside, although he doubted she'd take it. "Almost an hours ride to the gates and then another couple moments to the guildhouse and then if you decline a better fitting dress to Lily.

Alehial took his hand to enter the carriage, she had to. While the dress had been taken in it was still loose in some places. She however didn't let the skin contact linger at all and sat herself on a seat. "How long will your business take?" Alehial asks softly, she was again not looking at him, but out the window her hands fidgeting on her lap.

"Not long, but as with anything it could be longer if complications arise. The Guildmaster is new to his position and I like to be close enough to provide assistance if needed." he explained sitting back and looking out the other window.

Alehial was nervous the whole trip, between crushing the fabric of the dress in her hands and fidgeting, and shifting her position on the seat so frequently, even the heavy sighs she was starting to annoy herself. She hated carriages and riding in them. She liked feeling the ground beneath her as she walked. She was anxious about Lily and being here with Galin.

"What in the hells is your problem? You sailed in a ship for weeks before and here you are almost tipping the carriage over." he said looking at her with a concerned face. "If I give you something to read will it keep your mind from making you rattle around?" he asked holding out the newest report from the Guildmaster.

"I was with friends back then!!" Alehial shouts slapping hand and papers away from her. "I was with Lai and Arten! I didn't face it alone! I can't... I can't breath!" Alehial says the panic had been rising in her, he had been egging her on all morning. She was alone with him, everything was uncertain she didn't even have a single companion with her. Alehials breaths were coming too fast, too unevenly. She was.having a panic attack.

He gripped her hands in his and squeezed and released in rhythm, "Breath Alehial, for the love of gods I promised you'd be fine. Just listen or keep your eyes on mine and we will be inside the city soon enough. You aren't alone, your daughter is in there and you will see her shortly. Patience, like the hunter embrace everything around you like the tree in the storm and let this pass." he kept everything easy and his words calming.

Alehial was shaking, but her breathing evened out with the timing of the rythem he had set, his calming to his calming tone and words seeming to ease her, her eyes focused on his. "Let it... pass?" Alehial shakily whispers, she was tired from the weird hours from traveling halfway across the world, from the stress and anxiety.

"Fighting it makes it worse, better to endure and let the storm pass by. The farmer can't control the weather and must wait and hope the storm doesn't flood his field or drown his herd. It is the way of nature." he explained slowly letting her hands go before she makes a comment.

Alehial kept breathing evenly, the same rythem he had paced, his words comforted her. When he released her hands she leaned back in the seat, laying her head back into the corner of the carriage and closing her eyes. It was only a few minutes before he could tell she was asleep. And in sleep she relaxed, her body no longer tense, her face serene rather then terse.

"Master, with her here in front of you would you like me to influence her to join you willingly?" came Caliban's mental conversation. Galin thought for a moment, "No, what is the point of winning if I have to cheat to bring her to me? everything that will follow will be because of what I have put into place. I would not spoil my final victory with such a cowards move. But, I commend you on being so willing to help the victory to come quicker than planned." And he waited until the carriage stopped in front of the Guildhouse to even rouse her, "Alehial. we have arrived at the guild would you care to see inside?"

Alehial gasps softly and grabs herself, when she found no weapons to grab she blinked and looked at Galin. "Here? I... I fell asleep. Hmm. Yes. Why not? Let's see what you've done all over the world." Alehial says with a shrug of her shoulders. She waited for him to get out before stretching and yawning. She gather her skirts in one hand to exit the carriage but tripped on the edge of it anyways.

Galin had exited before her and turned quickly catching Alehial. "Perhaps you should have waited in the carriage." he said looking into her eyes. The building they were in front of was rather impressive and many people were entering and leaving many were also watching them.

"Or I just wear pants from now on... Everywhere." Alehial scowls, looking away from him and at the building instead. she was fairly impressed with the building itself and the architecture, she then took the chance to look around at the other buildings nearby as well. She was blushing lightly but trying not to focus on it let it get deeper and become much more noticable. "you can let me down you know." Alehial says softly, this reminded her very much of when she was at the castle and had tripped while pregnant with Conner and Lily. Galin had caught her then too.

Galin slowly lowered her to her feet, "Pants, or pay more attention to where you put your feet." He had missed the chance to trade little jabs with her. "Welcome to the Valusian branch of The Guild." he said indicating the building and heading up the steps where the guards saluted and opened the doors for them. Inside the building was simple with signs indicating where the mess hall, dorms and hall were. "Most offices are on the second and higher, recruiting happens down here and training mostly the lower two floors. We are heading up to the Masters office and chambers." he said heading to the steps.

"Proper fitting clothes have a great deal to do with co-ordination as well." Alehial says smoothing out the dress as they walked and managed the stairs. She wondered if any of these people knew who she was at all or if they only knew who Galin was. "Are all your guilds set up this way? Or does it vary from Guild Hall to Guild Hall?" Alehial asks curiously looking at all the people moving about, most throwing up a salute as Galin neared, Alehial though had collected herself from earlier and was walking as her noble training had prepared her, back straight, head held high. Though she was half elven, something she didn't see any others here as, or any full elves for that matter, she was near to royalty back home in Sildea.

The arrived at a set of double doors and a mousy haired woman who sat a desk, she got up and smiled at Galin, "Master Ravenwood, we weren't expecting you until later today. Master Feyrith is in a meeting with the other senior members." Galin nodded, "excellent now is the perfect time to impress in them that I have the utmost faith in the guildmaster." He then went to the door and opened it and ushered Alehial inside with him.

"Should I be coming into this?" Alehial whispered to Galin as she was lead into the room in front of him. She wondered what the meeting was about, and why Galin would let her see it. Unless it was still part of the ruse to get her to trust he wasn't up to anything. Alehial also wondered if every guild had a picture of Galin... or did he visit with his magic portals.

Guildmaster Feyrith, a half elf stopped talking as he and all the senior members looked as Galin and a woman who looked much like Lady Sarah walked into the office. "Grandmaster." they all said and saluted him.

"Greetings senior members." Galin said in return, "This is Lady Alehial Ravenwood from Andor. She is my guest for a short time here in Valusia. I came in answer to your missive Feyrith." Galin said ushering Alehial to a nearby seat. "Corinth traders have been raided the past three months outside Plenaze and wish to hire guild members to secure or eliminate the trade way. Do I follow the situation so far?" he asked.

The men nodded, "However they are unable to pay the usual fee for such a deployment of our forces. We need a answer on handling this since they will be sending a caravan at the end of the week."

Alehial sat as she was directed, was this the Guild? Her reports said otherwise, but what she was seeing could be a trick or the truth. Alehials mind was working quickly processing the information she had and the new information she was gaining. Though she saw a solution she said nothing of the problem they were discussing.

Galin looked at Feyrith, "Your missive had an idea to have Corinth pay the fee in coin for the guild members services and a discount in food and supplies for the guildhouse. I find merit in your plan. I would also like to have our members locate the stolen goods and return them to Corinth, that way the leadership will look favorably on securing our services if the issue happens again." All the members nodded their agreement and smiled at their leader, who seemed stunned that Galin approved of his plan. "I will sit with the Lady while you finish, Guildmaster." Galin said taking the chair beside Alehials.

Alehial looked sideways at Galin then and wondered if he thought similarly along the same lines as her. But he came from no noble house, not a trained one anyways so how would he think of such things on his own she wondered. And why was he going this route? It couldn't be that he really had changed... Too much had happened for him to just... change so easily. Especially when he returned.

After the meeting concluded several senior members came to Galin and shook hands, most gushing about his recommendations appointing them to senior member positions. A couple asked if he might have time to view their next class, several in regards to swords and one to shield usage. He smiled and said he had other business today, but would try to be back in the coming days if he could.

Everyone left and Feyrith bowed low to Master Ravenwood, "I didn't think you would be coming today sir. I appreciate your votes of confidence in my plans." Galin cut him off sternly but not cruel, "Feyrith. I put you in command here because you are practical and capable, if a senior member makes you doubt yourself because of your bloodlines I will have to rethink that decision." The half-elf stiffened and Galin continued, "Do not be afraid that a plan may not work out just as you plan. Your people in the field may need to adjust and make changes. You need to be confident that your plan of action is correct and in the guild's best direction."

Alehial watched quietly for most of it. But after Galin spoke she tilted her head and had a question for Galin herself. "His bloodline? Is there something wrong with being a half Elf in this country?" She asks curious now, she had seen the looks of some of the other men in the council. they were not happy with the half elf being in charge, was it because of the elf in him or something else she wondered. Her own ears were on display with her hair braided back, not to mention the shape of her eyes and her thin body type, though she took after her father more, it was mostly in bust and hips.

"My full name is Feyrith Presberos, my mother was General Presberos' only daughter. She fell in love with an elf visiting from far away and I was the result. The General and his wife refused to allow me to be abandoned, but did not allow me to be seen outside the house as such I was trained in tactics and war at his tables and maps. After my mother passed I was allowed to enlist in the army, but was not given the chance to advance until the Grandmaster began recruiting for the guild here and hand picked me after a night of long discussion and proof of tactical knowledge."

"thank you for sharing that information... But my question goes unanswered... Are there no elves or half elves here? Are we so uncommon in this part of the world?" Alehial asks again, she did however appreciate the information she was given just now as it gave her a little insight to how the nobles and military treated their own. Alehial hadn't studied too much about other nations once she was settled in Bearlon.

"There are no native elves or ones who settled here except further south. Valusia is fine with elves and dwarves even orcs can come and go fro our cities. The fact I am half elven is not a huge object, more that my parents were not married." Feyrith said.

Galin put his hand on Feyrith's shoulder, "I didn't base my decision on his race or family status, he is an amazing tactician and good swordsman. The perfect perosn to lead this guildhouse and I consider him one of the next in line to replace me as Grandmaster some day."

"High praise indeed, if even a Ravenwood bows to your skills." Alehial says looking first at Galin then to his man Feyrith. "It has been a privilege to sit in this room and observe your meeting. I wish you luck in future plans, Master Feyrith." Alehial said before speaking high elven to the man. "Lead Bravely, plan wisely brother." she imparts to him, she was uncertain if either man spoke it but it was a somewhat standard farewell between elves. Alehial wondered how much longer they planned to stay in the Guild Hall and what else Galin might have to do here or if they could go find her clothing that fit.

"Thank you, travel well sister." he replied with a bow first to her then to Galin.

"I leave you to handle the guild, be well Guildmaster." Galin said before coming back to Alehial. "Shall we go Lady Ravenwood?" he asked offering his arm to her.

Alehial hesitated before placing her arm in his properly so he could escort her. she kept expecting to get chills or a vision each time they touched but... he simply felt like a man. the cloth of his clothes, the hair on his arms, and the skin on his hands. Nothing that spoke to her of evil. "Very well." she said out loud to be polite, she honestly didn't know why he was behaving like this one more time. Better even then when she had been in the castle. Which Galin was he? Could she trust his words or not?

They got back into the carriage and rode into the merchant district and stopped in front of a well appointed shop. "I shall wait out here, send someone when it is time to pay for the clothes Alehial." he said after helping her down. She was becoming a luck piece since he figured his time at the guild was half what he expected it to be.

"I can afford my own clothing, Galin." Alehial said snidely not waiting for a reply as she walked into the shop and out of the street. If he thought she was completely without money or weapons and solely dependent on him, well then he would be sorely disappointed. She from her many days adventuring had a few tricks up her sleeves, and she brought them every time she armored up. She would purchase a dress that fit properly, and some pants and shirts. Only a few. she didn't plan on staying with Galin long, just long enough to Bring Lily home.

He smiled to himself, "Of course lady, I forgot that because of you station merchants will throw themselves at your coin purse."

Alehial paused inside of the shop, she was almost positive she heard him mumbling something behind her but she honestly didn't care. Let him think what he wanted, she looked around then, It was a nice shop, should have everything she needed for certain. "Excuse me?" She called out softly not wanting to interrupt anyone doing anything important.

A sales person came out from the back and smiled at Alehial, "How may I be of service?"

"Yes I'd like a dress fitted to me better than this one. And some pants and shirts made." Alehial said getting to the point right away, the red dress she wore could also be fitted to her but according to Elves red was for masters of the craft and she was not, not yet anyways, she didn't want to take too long in the shop either so they could go to where Lily was.

"Of course, but I must ask how payment will be made?" the merchant asked. She produced the measuring string and several needles to keep measurements in place.

Alehial made as if she was reaching into a pocket then, and out of it she produced a gold Andorian coin, one, and a small sapphire. she wasn't certain which the merchant might like to use, she had other currencies but again she wasn't certain of what they used here. "will either of these suffice?" Alehial asked calmly, almost haughtily to the merchant woman. Alehial wondered if Galin expected her to come out and ask for money after all, perhaps he knew of her little trick already, or not. She could still keep it a secret if need be.

The merchant picked up the coin and set it back down, "No merchant in Vaulsia accepts foreign coins, gold or not. And if I did take the gem I doubt I have enough to return to you Vaulsian coin."

"Understood something smaller then." Alehial says taking both back and pulling out a smaller ruby, and an emerald. She wasn't certain which was of less value in this country. "Will either of these work instead?" She asks, she did have raw gold but, it was generally also more valuable than coins. She could always order more clothes she supposed, but she didn't really need them.

"I could take the ruby if you require two dresses and three pairs of pants and tunics and I'd give you back ten Vaulisan gold pieces." the merchant said looking off to her side, probably where she kept her coinage.

"Then let's do that, I suppose it's better to have more than you need than not enough." Alehial sighed softly, putting her things away and nodding at the woman to keep the one in her hands. "we'd better get started, I don't want to keep my escort waiting too long." Alehial says then with a smile.

The merchant spent very little time in getting Alehial measured for new items and even was able to have the red dress adapted to better fit. "I can have them ready by the day after tomorrow and the pants and tunics altered by tomorrow." she announced.

"That sounds great, any chance you can rush a set of the pants and tunic for tomorrow as well? I could let you keep two more gold than agreed for it." Alehial said picking a vibrant green for the other dress and even a slightly less vibrant red than what she was wearing now. The pants and tops would all be browns and tans. Alehial wasn't ever really one for colors and pomp, she much preferred to let the merchants choose colors but she knew when you paid a lot of money, they wanted a better guarantee you wouldn't be upset with their work. Alehial before getting measured pulled her hair up and tied it off with a leather thong she had, and then braided it deftly, using a string to tie off the bottom. It only framed the elven qualities she possessed further.

The merchant agreed and measured the lady and released her to go on about her day.

"I wish you luck on your future sales then." Alehial says bidding the merchant farewell, She left the shop then, glad the dress fit better now. she would be much less likely to trip around Galin now, no more chances for him to get his hands on her person. She exits the store looking for Galin and the carriage, they surely were not in the same spot as before, i.e. the middle of the street. she thought it strange then as she realized she had seen very little natural plant life, or animals in this city.

They were not very far down from the shop waiting for her, Galin had a small container and two skins in his hand. "Well, the lady is done with her shopping shall we?" he said taking a quick bite of something from the conatiner.

Alehial's stomach chose that moment to grumble which brought another blush to her face. "Let's go, the clothing won't be done until tomorrow and another day anyways. Lily works at a Tavern right?" Alehial asks as she ignores her stomach, she hadn't been eating much at home anyways and here she had eaten even less. She was getting tired of ehr body getting in the way and everyone managing her and everything else out of her control at the moment.

"Of course Lady Enraged Ravenwood." he nodded and offered his hand to help her into the carriage. Once they were inside and got moving he offered her the container, "they are little pastries with a hazelnut cocoa filling. Along with a wonderful fruit juice the sell here in the city, I figured you'd wish your own skins worth."

"You guessed right, Thank you... though not for the nickname." Alehial says taking the skin once she settled the skirts of the dress and got into her seat. she took a pastry and had to catch herself from moaning, at home she tried to refrain from sweets and excessive spending on luxuries. the money could go elsewhere and there was no reason to be pampered, she was just a druid no matter what other title's she incurred, she would always be a simple druid.

The carriage continued on until Alehial could smell the salt of the ocean and rolled to a stop in front of a three story building which was obviously a tavern and inn on the waterfront. Unknown to both Alehial and Lily they had truly missed each other by a matter of minutes. "This is where she hangs her cloak Alehial, shall I wait out here while you go collect her?" Galin asked quietly. People were going inside and some were leaving, most talked in the Valusian dialect and some spoke common.

"That would be best. After all..." Alehial said looking at Galin and then away to open the carriage door and leave. She looked over the Tavern with a somewhat critical eye, then went inside. The inside was... much like every other Tavern Alehial had ever been in. Alehial didn't see Lily serving, so she took a seat. Perhaps playing patron would get her more information.

The young lady who came to the table had a dark red skirt and white top, "Good evening mistress. My name is Rosi and what can I get for you?"

"Wine please." Alehial says smiling at the young human woman, Alehial looked around the Tavern noting all the details, but looked curiously at Rosi, "Are you the only serving girl Rosi?" She asks with a polite smile for the girl, as she settled herself a little more into the chair.

Rosi laughed and blushed just a little bit, "Heavens no. I'm just the only one on right now. During the dinner rush there are two others and I help in the kitchen. Tomorrow morning there is me and another girl until after lunch." She nodded and hurried to the barman and brought back a small pitcher and glass for Alehial. "New to Valusia?" she asked casually.

Alehial smiles at the girl and nods her head. "I am! I've crossed the ocean before but this is my first time here. I was told the food here is very good, and the girls sweet, that it's a 'safe' place to eat and stay." Alehial said as she poured her glass from the pitcher, she takes a sip and smiles brightly at Rosi once more. "I've heard there are a lot of pretty girls that work here, the locals all seem to be fond of this place." Alehial finishes, she didn't want to be suspected after all. One of the girls must be Lily, that Rosi was referring to, Alehial was trying to think which way would be best to get her daughter to speak or come home even.

Rosi smiled brightly and blushed again, "I think you may pay us too much compliment, but thank you. Are you looking for a room for the night, or something to eat?" ANother customer called from across the way and Rosi had to hold up a finger which silenced the man. "I will be right back, we never like to leave them asking for much or too often." she explained going back and taking the man's empty plate and getting him another beer.

Alehial smiled and watched the girl work. She was a good worker, knew what she was doing, she was cite too but the people here seemed to respect her. Alehial hoped it was the same for Lily but... knowing her daughter Alehial was still very worried. She began to sip on the wine, she wondered how long she should wait before asking after lily... maybe she should get a room, leave Galin to his own devices.

Shortly after another round of checking on her clients Rosi returned to Alehial's table with a small plate of bread and a small bowl with the tavern's famous honeyed butter. "Compliments of the house while you decide if you'd like a room or not mistress." she said setting them down. "Is there any questions I can answer that might help you decide to hang your hat in our lovely little place?" she asked actually sitting down across from Alehial.

"I must confess Rosi... I'm quite torn, I came here for a reason but... I'm not sure I should go through with it after all. Me staying here, will probably complicate things, but if I stay where I have been I know there will be danger." Alehial sighs softly, she was onto her third cup of wine now, the pitcher was half empty. Alehial prepared a slice of bread and put the honey butter on it and took a bite. She was very surprised by the sweet taste of it, it was no wonder Lily wanted to stay here though. A girl like Rosi as a friend, good food and drink probably.

Rosi smiled, "Sometimes complicated is better than danger. But, I've never been that close to danger or complications."

"I wouldn't suggest it! Or men! Unless it's the right man... that makes all the difference..." Alehial says quickly eating all the bread slathered in the honey. Her stomach grumbled as she ate it and finished her third glass of wine. "I think... tomorrow I will return and get a room for certain. Until then could I get some fish? I'm afraid I might be hungrier than I thought." Alehial says with a giggle as she poured herself another glass, her cheeks were tinted pink now and she began to put her hair up and out of the way.

Rosi smiled again, "Do you like your fish on a plate or a bowl? We have eel stew and a baked marle fish with vegetables. I recommend the baked fish, the stew always gives me the creeps."

"Bowl and baked fish thanks. I could deal with less creeps in my life." Alehial giggles softly at Rosi, she was feeling good thanks to the wine and now that she saw the tavern and those who worked here she worried slightly less for her daughter.

Rosi brought the fish with vegetables, "Are you sure I can't talk you out of the eel stew?" Alehial looked past Rosi and saw Galin standing at the door looking her way.

Alehial smiles at Rosi and shakes her head no, then raises her wine glass to her lips, and in mock salute with a mischevious smile for Galin. She takes a liberal drink before beginning to eat her food. If Galin thought Alehial easy, well she may have been these last few years but... now that she was one a mission, and out of the house she was beginning to feel like herself again, like when she was younger. She was certainly getting her appetite back, and her strength.

Galin simply turned and walked out of the tavern, no words no judging look just left. Rosi turned when she heard the chimes at the door, then shrugged and turned her interest back to the new arrival. "So, I can't continue to call you just mistress. What is your name mistress?" she asked with a grin.

"Mistress isn't a bad thing to be called!" Alehial giggles softly setting the drink down again. "You can call me Ali, it's a nickname of sorts." Alehial said not wanting to tip her hand as Lily's mother right away, even though the resemblance was fairly close.

Rosi smiled and laughed, "Too many mistresses makes it sound like you enjoy wearing leather and spanking people." She gathered Alehial's empty dishes and took them into the kitchen along with several others.

Alehial stood then and drained her glass. She once again reached into her 'pocket' and pulled out a gold coin to pay with, she wondered if Galin was even out there waiting any longer. Perhaps she would need a room tonight if he had left her and gone off. She blushed at the mention of rough sex which made her think of Altair.

When Rosi returned she looked like she might have offended Alehial, "I hope my quip was not offensive Mistress." Many people had told Rosi that her mouth might get her into trouble, but that was while they dropped several extra coins as a tip. Once a patron offered ten silver for her services for the night, but while she wasn't pure she sure did not sell herself.

"I don't look my age dear but I'm almost one hundred years old. There is much I have done." Alehial giggles softly, ahe looks over Rosi and smiles. "I'm afraid I didn't exchange my money and all I've got is a gold piece." Alehial says with a smile handing it to Rosi and affectionately holding her hand for a moment.

Rosi smiled back, "Well then Ali, we will see you tomorrow possibly then." She placed the coin into her apron without a second thought. Another two girls came in as more patrons began to appear for the supper rush.

"May you have a fortuitous evening Rosi." Alehial says before leaving, neither of the new serving girls she saw were Lily. Even Lily with short hair and a different color. Alehial worried a little about that, could she again be with the man in dark colors? Why would she be with the man. She had said she had found an adventuring group... perhaps she wasn't adventuring at all. Alehials thoughts were swirling thanks to all the wine she had drank, she stepped outside and sighed in relief at the cool evening, then looked about for Galin.

The carriage was sitting across the way, the driver still in his seat. It seemed while he was irked by her attitude that he would not leave her in an unfamiliar place.

Alehial sauntered over and opened the carriage door, and climbed up into the seat across from Galin. "Thank you for allowing me the time to scope out the tavern." She said softly arranged the dress comfortably, her face was a little flushed from the wine and she was petting her dress's material blinking slowly, she was clearly tipsy if not close to drunk. Alehial began to hum a jaunty Elven dancing tune then.

"Did you see her?" Galin asked over top of a scroll he had been reading. The carriage began to roll on it's way back to the estate. "And you're decision now? Am I to send you home or are you going to try reason with Lily to return to Andor?" Reaching into a side compartment he produced a bottle of sherry and poured two glasses offering one to Alehial.

"I didn't. She wasn't there, I spoke with one of the other serving girls... I'll have to try again tomorrow, or stay the night and lie in wait for her. I won't return without seeing her for myself." Alehial says softly almost whispering the whole time. She takes the glass and downs it in one go and makes a face. "Bitter..." she whispers that too but looks into the glass and how the light was reflecting. "She's my daughter, I just want her able to take care of herself before she leaves me. Am I such a monster?" Alehial was talking to herself but out loud. She was still petting the fabric of the dress and hitching it higher.

Galin was watching her, but not lowering his gaze to the growing amount of leg she was showing. "I did not raise my son, had no word into how he was raised and I find myself from time to time wondering if he is strong and capable enough to survive without claim to the family name or monies. I suppose I have faith in you and Altair helping Tess raise him to be the man he is today." he said draining his glass and picking up the bottle to offer Alehial a second glass.

"Flint is a great man. He rarely accepts monies from me... only replacements for armor and such and only if it isn't new... he was an excellent soldier but thanks to everything in his life... he can no longer follow that career." Alehial said softly offering up her cup. "What do you do? What did you do? I know you were a monster...then You were a werewolf..." Alehial says.

"I was found and taken to Malkier after Altair maimed me and they helped heal me. Then turned me loose on Andor with an army. And then nothing until the doppleganger of your uncle brought me back to life." he said refilling her glass. "Is their anything else you wish to know?" he asked filling his own.

"Why though... Why kill your father? Why attack the frontier... Why attack Andor?" Alehial takes the drink and downs it again , she then slides down the seat until she lay on her side with her knees tucked up. "You could have been greater than Altair... You could have really been something. I can see in you a great man... could. But now all I can see are lies and schemes... times were easier before." Alehial sighs softly petting the fabric of the seat, she pulled her hair loose again and let it pool around her on the seat as well, it was a tempting sight.

"I killed my father back when I was the wolf, he betrayed my mother and wanted to kill my mate. I wanted to stay away from all of them, live free. Malkierians harbored a hatred of the Andorians and my attack and claiming Baerlon was repaying them healing me. Greater than my brother? Noble, stuck in that city, unable to be truly free or who he wants to be? No thank you, I desire simpler things." His eyes swept her legs, it was hard not to reach out and run his hands along them to take her here and now. Instead he refilled her glass and his own, "Do you mean to tell me that, the man now is greater than the warrior you first met?"

"Altair will always be a great man, now or then... but... he probably never would have been if I wasn't there." Alehial says softly sitting up enough to knock back the drink then laying once again, her eyes becoming a little fuzzy. "You never would have been either. I sometimes wonder what it would be like... of I never met any Ravenwoods." Alehial said softly petting the fabric of the seat again. She was begin to tilt her head, it felt light and her face felt hot. "I killed your mate. To keep the people in the frontier safe, I would have killed you if Altair hadn't gotten in the way you know." Alehial says softly, her elven accent growing stronger now.

"You did kill me, remember? The last thing I saw was the sword in your hand and knowing it had lodged in my neck." he said looking down at her. The battle at their wedding, Altair and the new king coming to the city and driving back the Malkeirians with good aligned dragons.

"You never stay dead though... I tried really hard. I had them split your body into peices and had them spread over the world. But you came back... and now... now I have to try to kill you again to keep my family safe. Because I have to." Alehial says softly though she looked up at Galin with a soft unfocused gaze, her skirt revealing her legs. "Altair will die... and then... then I'll be alone. All my children want to leave... Ali will have her own, Arten too and no one will need me." Alehial says softly.

"Have I not been honorable in helping you look for Lily? Sending my guild to help look for baby Xeph? Was I not honorable when I offered you to marry after you thought Altair dead?" he asked his eyes not looking too far from her legs showing more. He leaned down near Alehial's face, "You trusted me to come here, and have been alone with me for sometime."

"I... No you... I..." Alehials eyes focused on his, she pressed herself back I to the seat, she knew he was too close, she wouldn't be able to fight in her state. "You p-promised to help." Alehial whispers softly her cheeks getting hot and turning red, she reaches a hand out to put on his shoulder to keep him from getting too close but it landed squarely on his chest instead. Her hand was small, and not firm, her breathing somewhat erratic.

"I did promise, and did I not wade into battle versus Lyriel's father to help protect Flint? Did I not send The Guild to secure the home left to him? Have I not brought you here to see Lily? I have given you nothing but honorable intentions and drawn nothing but ire." he said quietly his hand covering her own. His breathing was deep and even as they were so close.

"You did. You have, but... You stabbed Darryl through when you came back! You... the guild and... and." Alehial looks at their hands on his chest for the first part, then his eyes for the second. She trailed off sliding her eyes to the side and looking demurly to the side. "I..." Alehial starts softly then stops again licking her lips.

"The reactions of a person just brought back forcibly from the other side. I was snatched from the land of the dead and forced to grow a body in the blink of an eye. My actions were that of animal." he said his hand moved down her arm to her elbow. Everything in the warlord wanted to move his other hand, to stroke her thighs and beyond. Careful Galin, this is a game of subtle moves do not over play your hand.

When his hand slid over her skin Alehial blushed and her whole body shivered. "I... if not for healing he would have died, can I just forgive that?" Alehial asks softly looking up through her lashes at Galin, she was half sitting up now and her hair was laying over her shoulders and back, the red dress framing her, and baring her pale legs. Her hand splayed on his chest then, she could feel he was young and strong still, like her. Age hadn't caught up to him, like it had with Altair.

"If he had been kicked by a horse, could you forgive? Bitten by a abused dog, would you forgive that? If you remember I did not even speak that night, I barely remember any of it only fully gaining all of my wits when I woke three days later to hear your uncle tell me why he brought me back to life." his story was true even if she did not believe him.

"I...I don't know if I can trust you." Alehial whispers softly pulling her hand off his chest slowly, though he still held her arm near her elbow. She had seen the night he had been brought back, the corpses used in the ritual. Would she have been any different? Could she trust his words now? Had he ever done anything truly evil... yes but not this time? Alehial was confused and her head was swimming in Alcohol. Her face was red and hot and his hand felt cool on her skin.

He watched here eyes and released her, "You need to sleep off the alcohol. We will talk tomorrow when your thinking more clearly."

Alehial swallows and slumps back onto the seat, she shivered then and slid down to laying again. She took a deep breath and slowly let it out. There was something about Ravenwood men... they could sometimes be so intense it almost stole her breath. She gazed at him as he looked away. He was so much like Altair but looked so much different. Her chest ached. She drew her arms close and hugged herself. She missed him fiercely, and all her babies. But that was why she was here. To make certain Lily was safe and okay on her own.

As they arrived back to the estate they were unaware that eyes were watching. Lily could see the carriage from a distance and knew her uncle and his companion were inside. Da'Karis noticed them getting out of the carriage and going into the house. From the distance Lily did not know that who she thought was Sarah was her mother.

"Tch." Lily clicked her tongue, she had hoped her uncle had moved on and left this place. Why wasn't Darryl able to hear her though, had he really done something to Her? Somehow? "We need a better look." Lily says unhappy with how far they were and how little they could actually see.

Da'Karis noted that there were several men patrolling the grounds and probably not make it easy to get too close. "I'm not sure we can get closer." he said to her.

"It has to be something he did..." Lily says biting her lower lip and she watched the house, but there wasn't any more movement really.

"Why not walk right up and knock on the door then?" Da'Karis asked. "I doubt since he invited you that they would attempt to harm you or your companion. Make him believe you came to discuss contacting your mother."

"I left last time... But I'm not certain I could a second time." Lily says looking worried. "Besides, what would I ask? Hey uncle Galin I wanna go home, let me call Darryl without interference?' Lily mimics her uncle's voice somewhat decently. "Sure Lily come on in."

Da'Karis smirked, "How about asking him to let you communicate with your mother and not mention Darryl. And leaving wouldn't be such a problem with both of us there correct?"

"I... I guess not but it will be a very large risk Kar." Lily says softly still chewing on her bottom lip, she didn't know what might happen if they went with this plan but as of right now... it was her only option to talk to her family. Lily sighs and nods her head. "Okay, but we should dress in something less assassiny. Otherwise he'll think the reasons I gave him last time were all a lie." Lily says looking at Kar and then looking him up and down because honestly she had never seen him in any other clothing. Plus Kar had kicked Galin out of the Tavern once... Would he remember him?

Da'Karis looked at Lily, "I assume you'd like me dressed a little less like I am now?" Travelling back to the city to change meant they might not make it back tonight. "Then shall we return tomorrow?" he asked.

"Yes to both. Besides I want something warm in me after having to spy on my uncle." Lily says hugging herself as if she had a chill. "Plus it's just weird how his woman looks like my mom." Lily says as an after thought.

"Very well, let us head home and then get something to eat." Da'Karis said leading Lily out of their vantage spot. It would not take long to get back to the city and to the inn, they would plan over dinner then get a good night's sleep and be back out the next day.

"Kar... how will we convince him to let you in? He's not a stupid man, even my mother fears him." Lily asks softly as they walked home, she had been fidgeting the whole way home.

Da'Karis looked at her, his eyes never changed nor did his face, "He will invite me in just like the reason he left when I told him. I do not fear him, he is a man." If everyone in her family feared Galin, then it pleased him that the man was nothing more than that to the assassin.

"Damn." Lily mumbles under her breath, she looked about before grabbing Kar and pulling him behind a stall and some Barrels, once behind them she leans up and kisses him roughly, her cheeks pink with a blush, but her actions bold enough.

His arms wrapped about her and drew here in tightly as they kissed, he did not think his comment would get such a reaction.

Lily moaned softly as she was pulled in tightly against him. Other than her father she'd never met a man so fearless of men or death. She could understand how mom had so many children now, and it was good there was tea for her to drink everyday. She nibbled his lips until he parted them then snaked her tongue into his mouth to coax his tongue to twine with hers.

Da'Karis brought his hands to rest on Lily's backside as they continued to kiss. If she wasn't careful they would be doing more than kissing soon.

Lily moaned and wiggled against him before breaking the kiss panting softly, her cheeks much deeper red now. "We need to get home... now!" Lily says urgently her arms wrapped around his back, slowly sliding down to his waist. She was looking up at Kar through her lashes, her lips slightly swollen. Her eyes wide from lust, her cheeks flushed and her panting breath.

Da'Karis pulled her close and pressed his lips to hers again his hands squeezed her bottom. She had found a place where no one noticed them, and he found it might be hard to go anywhere the way she so afflicted him.

Lily moaned and gripped his shirt tightly in her hands, her lips parting easily to him to let him plunder her mouth. His big hands squeezing her rear felt good and she felt the heat and slickness in her core. He was silent still and she tried to keep her own moans quiet, she arched her back so her ass stuck further out for his hands and her breasts pressed against his chest.

Da'Karis brought a hand around and undid her pants letting both hands now slip inside to touch her body. They played chasing each others tongues to entwine as their passion began to grow.

Lily was trying to be quiet but it just led to soft whines and whimpers, her lips and tongue busy. Her pen hands snuck into shirt and pants and she gently scraped her nails down his chest to tease the dark patch of hair just before the prize she was after. She squirmed in his hands as her own gently wrapped around him.

Da'Karis began to lower her pants, letting his fingers graze her sex as they continued to kiss and touch.

"Kar! Please mm people will see! Ah!" Lily moans and then covers her mouth with her own hand trying to stifle her sounds. She however didn't remove the hand around his shaft as it rubbed up and down, then rubbed the head of his penis. Her own sex was.wet and hot, slick with her own juice as he fingered her.

He pulled them deeper into the shadows, withdrawing his fingers and then squatting down to pull one of her boots off and her pants off that leg. When he rose he lowered his pants and lifted Lily and held her high up until he could lower her onto his erection. He groaned as he slipped inside and he wrapped her free leg around him and began to thrust.

Lily blushed brightly but had to bite down on her bottom lip, her body entirely tense and het head throwing back as her held her completely suspended, lowering her onto his penis until he was fully seated inside her womanhood. He too couldn't stay silent at their joining and it pleased Lily, her arms gripping his shoulders trying not to make herself any heavier for him even though she still weighed all of a hundred pounds and a little. Her sex pulsed around him as he was so deep right away.

Da'Karis kissed her neck as he moved Lily up and down on his shaft letting her rest at the bottom to feel the length of her sex holding his manhood deep within her.

"K-Kar! Oh gods!" Lily moans pushing her face into the crook of his neck and biting down gently to try and stifle her noises. Her ears were bright red as the sounds of them joining seemed to her overly loud, the noise from the street too close and his shaft so deeply seated within her made her clench around him as he slowly moved them. She would cum soon if he continued this slow torture of her womanhood.

They continued on coupling like this, his panting against her neck was hot and fast. And he groaned as her body held him, he had never felt anything like this before and could not stop wanting to be inside Lily and love her.

Lily came more than once, the deep angle set her off, his rough grip made her sensitive, them being in the open made her tighter than usual too. Each time she came she stifled the noise into his neck, he was moving so much but was so hard. "P-please Ka-Kar, Please mmMmm cum in me! Kar!" Lily whimpers and moans, her hands and arms holding him tightly as her thighs trembled. She might not be able to walk home at this rate.

When she begged him that was what set him off, he held her tight against him and his climax happened. He found her mouth and kissed her deeply his hands holding her bottom it took minutes to recover adn he lifted her higher to let his manhood exit her body.

Lily too came while he showered her insides in jizz, she cried into his mouth as they kisses and rode their pleasure. He was right against her cervix, when he pulled her up again and his soft manhood slid from her she could help the feminen moan as she was exposed suddenly and empty, and his semen slowly began to leak just a little. She had no strength in her legs now, after all of that. "I l-love you." She whimpers againsr him.

"And I you." he whispered kissing her neck. Once they had come down enough he set her feet on the ground putting her bare leg back into her pants and boot then pulling them up again. Da'Karis stood and fastened her pants and then his own.

"My legs still feel like jelly." Lily giggles nervously her whole face and ears were still flushed with color. She could feel their mixed fluids inside of her slowly leaking from her, and she knew this time for certain if she didn't drink the tea she would get pregnant, after he had been so deep inside her and let loose so much. Her nipples were hard peaks even through her clothing still as well. "R-ready?" Lily asked softly.

Da'Karis smiled at her, "I will help you walk my lover. It's not far to the tavern." He offered her his arm and they walked slowly at first then faster when she could handle it back to the tavern.

Lily blushed the whole way home, but took his arm and at first leaned heavily against him. Once reaching the Tavern she was almost completely recovered, though her pants were damp against her crotch. She would need a bath for certain as well as tea first thing. "I'm headed for the baths, and then I'll be up, unless you wish to clean up as well.

"I think I will join you after I brew your tea." he said touching her hip before moving to the kitchens. They had entered from the rear entrance so no one had seen them enter.

"Thank you... I'll see you down there." Lily says giving him a quick kiss to his lips before turning and walking down the other stairs into the darkness where she began to light the candles and lights. Once everything was lit she disproved completely, going red at the pool of liquid in her pants from her crotch. She quickly stripped the rest and slid into the water then.

Da'Karis came down with the tea and new clothes for them both, setting the tea nearby. He then collected her clothes and disrobed as well before entering the water and swam over to her. "Turn around and let me get your back Lily." he said taking the rag from her hand.

" I dunno, can you control yourself this time?" Lily smiles at him teasingly, she did hold up the rag though, her other hand covering her breasts, it was habit still. She had washed her hair first and had only just gotten started on her arms when Kar came in. She was blushing softly

He took the rag and began to wash her back, "You started that my love."

"You tempted me!" Lily pouts but talents and leans against the edge so he could scrub well. "Besides... how am I supposed to know you were an exhibitionist! I wanted to kiss then come back!" Lily says moaning just softly as she spoke.

"Escalation my pet." he said scrubbing her back and then stretching out each arm and washing them fully. "Dunk and rinse yourself, for your feet and legs are next." he informed her.

Lily nods and drops under the water for a moment before resurfacing, she turns around, one arm covering her chest again and sat on the ledge under the water. Then stretched out a leg up above the water from her seated position. "Grabby hands and impatience you mean." She teases softly the light pink still dusting her cheeks.

Da'Karis took hold of her ankle and placed it upon his shoulder washing from the thigh towards her foot. "And you did not put your hands upon me?" he asked as he switched to the other leg.

"Was I to let you have all the fun, Lover?" Lily asks her blush spreading along her cheeks a little further. She lowered the first leg and raised the next for him, resting it on his shoulder. Lily was getting moist just thinking about it again, not to mention she hadn't cleaned that part of herself yet either.

Da'Karis took his time cleaning Lily's leg and then he moved between her legs and washed her neck and shoulders. When he finished it was down her chest and stomach in slowly lazy circles until the rag nudged her sex. "Shall I?" he asked letting one of his finger go around the rag and rub her nub.

She had removed her hand for him to wash her chest. Her breath hitching when the rag went over her still sensitive nipples. Then he rubbed her and she jerked her body upward slightly gasping. "Kar! Y-yes..." Lily at first was surprised but when she looked at his face and saw the intensity still there, she nodded her head and agreed. She was wet, and the water made the friction nice. She wrapped her legs loosely around his waist, keeping her center open to him. She was holding on to the edge of the seat beneath the water.

With her confirmation he took his manhood and joined with her again, it seemed like second nature to be inside Lily. Leaning down he kissed her again, then deepened it.

Lily gasped at his sudden entry but tightened her legs around his waist under the water. She leaned up into the kiss, and played with his tongue as well. She could smell his skin so strongly, the feel of the water.... his cock as he mushed it fully hilted inside of her over and over. Her face was.flushed and she kept hold of the edge of the seat under the water and met hjis thrusts with her hips.

---

Alehial woke the next morning with a horrible headache and still dressed. Galin had brought her into thr house last night and placed her on her bed and left the room.

Alehial sat up slowly and held her hand to her head. Her hair was loose... the dress was all tangled too. Alehial slowly stands up and just unfastened the dress and let's it drop. She squints at the windows then reaches down in the dress to pull out her hole. It was always put with her armor and adventuring gear. She pulls out a shirt and pants and pulls them on.

After a short while there was a knock on her door and the timid maid's voice called out, "M'lady? Master Ravenwood wanted me to see if you were awake and ready for breakfast."

Alehial winced at the knocks. "I'm awake." She groused to the maid through the door. She went over to the pitcher was water in the room and got a drink then washed face and hands. She then pulled out a brush and began untangling her hair. "Tell him I'll be down shortly." She said while doing all of that.

Galin was waiting at the table when she arrived and motioned to the empty chair rather than talking. The butler brought out eggs, toast and sausage along with a large mug of willow bark tea setting them down as queitly as he could.

Alehial sat and hugged the mug of tea sipping even though it was steaming hot still. "Morning." She said cordially straightening up and sitting properly after a few more sips of the hot liquid that was providing some measure of relief. She also began to pick at the food taking a few bites of each thing before focusing on the tea again. She had eaten maybe half of the food, again.

Galin watched her with a slight amount of mirth to her situation, "So, what plans have you for the day?"

"I will be going into the garden to meditate, and then head to the tavern again to find Lily." Alehial said clearing her throat and finishing the tea. She noticed the look in his eyes then and stood. "I will get out of your hair then. I'm sure you are very busy." Alehial says softly pulling her hair over her shoulder and out of her face.

His facial expression changed, "I do caution you, the disciples have been seen in the city. It happens sometimes when I turn up for guild business and sometimes turns nasty."

Alehial stopped for a moment. Her body more tense for a moment before she forced herself to relax and keep her face neutral. She didn't believe for a moment they were two separate things, Galin and the Disciples. She turns her back to Galin then and brings a hand up to gently rub her temple and the pounding headache that was still there, only less sharp thanks to the tea. "Thank you for the forewarning... I'll do my best not to kill too many of them." Alehial says still not facing Galin, hair still pulled to one side exposing her neck.

"You still doubt my word that I do not control the disciples, I would challenge you to have someone cast a spell to verify my words. But, I have no doubt that doing that won't happen since you cling to the idea I can't change." Galin wiped his mouth on his napkin and got up, his appitite long since vanished.

"I believe a great many things Galin. Most of it... I am finding is wrong. I thought my family trusted me. I thought my children respected me. I thought I knew what I was doing... turns out nothing I know means anything anymore." Alehial says her hand leaving her temple and dropping to her arm, her other arm coming up and she hugged her arms and chest tightly. Her shoulders were dropped and her head hung low for a moment. She sighed and breathed deeply and then she stood up straight. "I will go back out into the world and... I will learn it all again. And my children will have to do the same." She says softly before leaving to go outside.

As she reached the door and opened it she was confronted by Lily and the man she had seen her with.

Lily took a step back and ran into Kar. "M-Mom?! MOM?!?" Lily asked, she had braced herself to deal with her Uncle but her mother was here and in person and she was not prepared. "Oh shit! We need to go now!" Lily said grabbing Kar's arm and turning to try and run.

Alehial was shocked, silent. But as soon as Lily turned away from her Alehial lunged forward and hugged her daughter. Pulling her tightly into the embrace. "Lily..." Alehial says softly near her daughters ear. Lily squeaked when she was grabbed and when her mother hugged her tears welled up into her eyes. "I... I'm so sorry Mom." She whispers turning into the husband hugging her mother back tightly. Kar could see now, that Lily looked something like her mother but more of her father, she was taller than her mother too, and her original hair was.darker than her mothers too.

Galin had left the dining room behind Alehial and now he was surprised to see Lily and her friend at his front door. "Well, I suspect the guards at the gate missed you or are dead?" he asked leaning against the doorway.

"No! Wait!! Mom why are you here with Uncle Galin?!" Lily asked shocked and pulling back from her embrace to scowl at her uncle. She glanced at Galin and Kar then.

Alehial grabbed Lily's face. "Are you hurt?! Are you safe? Who is this man? Who are you? What do.... are you sleeping with her? Lillian Victoria Ravenwood!! You answer me right now! Are you safe?" Alehial peppered her daughter with questions before looking at Kar for a moment and seeing in his face what had happened to Altair too, then she once again turned her daughters face back to hers.

"Mom! Stop! Mom calm down! Mother... I'm fine, no I'm not hurt! Mom... mommy please... I'm okay I promise!" Lily says her face instantly going bright red when her mother accused Kar of sleeping with her. She grabbed her mother quickly by the arms though just in case she tried anything, because knowing her mother she might.

Da'Karis said nothing and did not move as Alehial began questioning, he did however take notice of Galin.

Galin raised an eyebrow, he had thought to head into the city but this was much better.

"Why! Lily why wouldn't you wait until we thought you were ready? Why didn't you believe in us?!" Alehial asks still not releasing her daughter or her daughters face. "Why did you leave with a man that lied to you?" Alehial asks her questions and with each one tears ran down her cheeks. Her grip tightened painfully on Lily.

Lily looked down and tears welled up in her eyes too. "Mom please... it's not like that. You were busy and Dad just never had enough time... I was ready. More than ready, my adventures might not have started like they were supposed to... but I'm fine now." Lily said before wincing and covering her mothers hand on her chin with her own.

Alehial looks down then and take a deep shuddering breath. "You've learned how to calm down... and you dont talk as fast anymore." She says with a light chuckle. Alehial wipes her face then and loosens her grip on Lily. She takes another deep drink and then let's Lily go completely. She turns them and looks at Kar.

"Oh... um so the adventuring party I mentioned isn't so much a party per say... " Lily began but with a single hand gesture from her mother went silent. "You have been working with my Daughter and keeping her safe?" Alehial asks of Kar.

"It did not start out that way exactly, but it has become that way." Da'Karis said keeping his eyes on Alehial's.

Alehial narrowed her eyes, "Explain, and I want to know what happened to the boy that convinced my daughter to run off as well. I take it you do know about that?" Alehial questioned, she wasn't really in the mood for any evasions.

Lily made an apologetic sign with her hands and made an I'm sorry face. She couldn't stop her mother from interrogating Kar. Or fighting him, she hoped they didn't fight. She didn't want to try to save her mother from Kar. Although Lily wondered if he could take on her mother now.

"The Liar tried to sell her, I rescued her." he offered as a singular explanation. It was obvious to Alehial this one did not speak much.

"Does he live?" Alehial asks a simple question. Alehial looked the man over but all he wore was black and dark brown clothing, he was a very tanned skinned man, what she could see. However she didn't particularly like the look in his eyes. Alehial puts one of her fists on her hip and stands with some attitude, her face not showing she was exactly pleased.

Lily once again could do nothing, she had been ordered silent by her mother. But she didn't like the questions and when her mother took that pose she knew it might be a while before she was satisfied with any of the short answers she would get from Kar. Though mom never asked if he killed the man, only if he was dead which was a relief. Lily looked over at her Uncle then standing or rather leaning in the doorway and just watching her mother.

"Not when I saw him last." replied Da'Karis, "The same with his employer and comrades."

Galin smirked, the man with Lily was quiet and capable and became a new interest here in Valusia.

"Is it your profession to kill?" Alehial says narrowing her eyes, as she focused on Kar's face. She was largely ignoring Galin now, because this man in front of her had had her Little Lily alone for a very long time and Alehial was not pleased with that. Considering Lily gave away that they were sleeping together.

"Mom! Hey um... can I ask why... you are here. Not that I'm not super happy you are here but... in Uncle Galins house... with uncle Galin. Here. Are you... staying here with him?" Lily asks then of her mother.

Alehial glanced sideways at Lily and sighed softly. "Because we had no way of finding you Lily. I... I had no idea where you were. The only information we had was confirmation that you lived thanks to the gods and Aunt Arten. He offered his assistance. He's the only one with such connections." Alehial sighs softly again and drops her shoulders. "Your father has worried himself sick. I've been desperate to keep all you children safe." Alehial admits.

"He stabbed Darryl through the chest!!" Lily said both arms waving in Galins direction. Lily was in utter disbelief that her mother sided with Galin now. Even if it was to find her and try to save her.

Alehial and Galin noted the tiny change in how the man with Lily stood when she said that. Galin had wanted to say something, but now looked to where his sword was in case this man came after him.

Da'Karis had not answered Alehial's question, in fact he began to take in everything around them in case they needed to fight their way out.

"I am aware of what he did to my son!" Alehial turns her full heated stare at her Daughter. Who shrank a little in response. "I am fully aware of the facts Lily. What choice did you leave me? Hm? The note you wrote? Or the fact that you RAN away from home. From me and your father?! Conner was devastated you didn't confide in him! Lai has basically locked herself away!" Alehial begins turning towards her daughter fully once more.

"Mom... I... I'm sorry but I had to. I had to! Conner understands. I wrote him a message specifically! I can be me here mom! I'm not a Ravenwood, I'm not little Lily. I'm just me, and I'm much stronger than I was. Plus I have a partner now!" Lily says stepping back over to Kar's side defiant of her mother.

Alehial reaches out then to grab Lily's arm only to have her daughter step back and out of reach. "Why would you cut yourself off from us then! Why not let us know you are safe? Let Darryl know!?" Alehial drops her hand that was reached out for Lily.

"I tried! I dont know why he can't hear me! That's why we came here." Lily frowned realizing she was going to her Uncle Galin the same way her mother said she had to.

"The bracelet they put on her hid her location from scrying and the like." Da'Karis answered for Lily.

Alehial saw a guard coming up behind Lily and Da'Karis the man did not have a weapon drawn, but he was already was reaching for the man.

"Do you have business here? Are you part of this?" Alehial scowls at Lily and Kar but steps forward to confront the guard, and put herself between the guard and them. She had no spells prepared for the day but that didn't mean she wasn't capable of taking care of things. The things she asked of the guard were crisp and in a voice of command that came easily to her.

"He is a guard at 'my' estate and he is supposed to protect the property and those residing within." Galin said dryly then motioned the guard away.

"if he touches me or lily without permission it will be the last thing he ever does." Da'Karis replied not turning around. His focus was on Galin, Lady Ravenwood while angry with her daughter's situation was still honorable.

Lily saw her Mother give Galin a stern look and she glanced at her uncle to see his reaction to it. But she knew Kar, and he was only giving her mother fair warning on what he would do. Then her mother made one of her thinking faces at Kar. "Um... mom, why dont you... come to the Inn. We could eat and talk more about everything there... privately." Lily offers not trying to be too obvious she didn't want to continue this is front of Uncle Galin.

Alehial looks at Lily then and back at Galin. Then to Lily's new boyfriend and fierce protector. "That might not be a bad idea Lily... just let me finish preparing for the day... and speak with Galin." Alehial held up her hand to silence Lily once more when her daughter opened her mouth to tell her which Inn it was. "Galin took me, I know where it is." Alehial says with a shake of her head.

Lily sighs but then shakes her head and hugs her little mother tightly. Her mother squeezed back just as tight. "We will be waiting for you to arrive mom... be careful." Lily says softly before letting her mother go and nodding at Kar that they could leave now.

Da'Karis nodded back and followed Lily back to the gate passing the guard who gave them a wide berth.

Galin watched them go and then turned his attention to Alehial, "Well, you're going to go have supper with Lily and her pet assassin? I doubted you'd ever allow your children to associate with a killer for hire."

"Am I much different than him?" Alehial asks softly glancing at Galin over her shoulder. This was not how she had expected the day to start. Alehial brought her hands up and hugged her arms tightly. "For that matter... just how similar is Lily to me? I'll listen to what they have to say then make my decision... but its given me hope and for that Galin I have you to thank." Alehial says softly turning them to look at him, letting her arms loose by her side.

"Perhaps you need to talk to someone about the assassins here in Valusia, to gain a better understanding about him." Galin suggested. "They call him Da'Karis and for one so young he has a impressive pedigree." he supplied her the information. "I'm glad I could give you something as powerful as hope Alehial." he then began to climb the stairs, he needed to check in with his people.

Alehial said nothing and left for the garden, once she commuted she could then go and speak to Lily and her boyfriend the silent Da'Karis. It was times like these that Alehial liked being well known, people would give her more information, not that she didn't think Galin was speaking the truth at all. "Hope..." alehial whispers to herself softly as she settles into the garden.

She thought about everyone she knew here, from the leader of the guild to Rosi. Almost everyone she knew was on either side, but if she had a cleric they could find Gerard's spirit and he could tell here who Da'Karis was.

Alehial finished up and walked back to the house. The clothes she had ordered should be delivered soon, plus she had made a friend here in this country already. Perhaps she would ask around on her way to the Inn. Lily was living at. First however was to put up her hair and change into city exploring clothes. Not to mention grab her supplies.

Of course Galin saw fit to remind Alehial, "Weapons are not allowed out in public, be careful that I do not have to be summoned to get you out of the stockades."

"I think you forget sometimes that I am aware of how the world works." Alehial says softly as she adjusted the hole into the pocket of her clothing. It was then with her hair up Galin could see her new friend. A poisonous snake around her neck slither down her shoulder and get comfortable as well. Half trying to get into her cleavage. "Or how I work for that matter." She finished her sentence.

"Still dropping that you are Lady Alehial Ravenwood might not afford you any friends around here." Galin said holding up his hands to placate her.

"Should I take another name while I am here then? I've never done such before... but then... the world has changed since last I wandered in it." Alehial says softly, turning away from him and finishing her adjustments. She let the snake do as she pleases, as long as she wasn't hindering her they were on good terms. Alehial wasn't even on the alert around Galin anymore, wary sometimes but she seemed to have recent become somewhat accustomed to his presence and the fact that he hadn't taken any liberties or tried anything with her.

"No matter what name, the first thing you ask for is a message to the guild or here to me. And then give a name, just hope they decide to put you in a cell and not a pit. Those get rough and they aren't men's and women's." Galin said. "I'd feel better if I escorted you, or arranged for a couple guild members to escort you."

"If they do... what happens will be held ultimately accountable only by themselves in the end. I will not be escorted nor take a useless guard, the only thing they are good for is pointing out your own self importance." Alehial sighs and shakes her head no. She didn't want followed around nor walked to the door. Granted she wasn't very familiar with this country, or city, or the way to the Inn. But she much preferred finding her own way.

Galin let her leave then, he could keep tabs on her with his pin in case she got into trouble. And knowing Lady Ravenwood trouble will find her.

Alehial left the house and ground and began to walk in the right direction. The only problem was... she had been in a carriage and not paying attention to the streets. She had been watching Galin. Alehial went straight for a while, then walked into a business district and turned around to try and get back to where she probably should have gone. But she found a dead end instead and turn around again trying to get back and only instead becoming thoroughly lost. She wasn't very good in cities, or human ones at least.

As she retraced her steps she wound up in another merchant square full of people, some places were closing and others opening to feed hungry people. So many faces pushed together in the throngs of people. It was dizzying until Alehial turned a corner and saw him, her uncle Gladred and he was watching her with a smirk on his face. Then just as suddenly he pushed off the low stone wall he had been leaning against and moving through the crowd.

Alehial didn't even hesitate. She began to follow him, her face set angrily as she moved. Of all places to run into him... the same city as Lily. This man was a menace and one that needed taken care of, and as the only one available to do it Alehial was ready to take on that responsibility. She reached into her pocket and into the hole to grab her favorite sword.

He was adept and turning the corners of this city moving amongst people and staying ahead of her. Several times ALehial had to stop and reacquire him in the crowds before starting after him again. Suddenly she saw him speaking to a few men by a fountain before looking back at her and smiling.

Alehial scowls, he was recruiting men to attack her. Typical. She had her own tricks however, and she was certain he didn't know just how powerful she had become in the druidic arts yet. Alehial did however continue forward toward them all.

Galadred did not move, nor did the men he was with in fact they almost took no notice of her at all.

Alehial ignored it for now and continued toward them. If nothing else she would get to speak to him again after years of nothing. She had also promised Tarin Gail she would still give him a chance, and she always kept her promises when she could. She also however firmly gripped her swords handle through the hole in her pocket.

Galadred finally looked at her when she was two arms length from him, he reminded her so much of the man from her world. His steel gaze and hard eyes, the same that despised his son for falling in love with a human woman. It reminded Alehial of when they killed Cybil's mother and how crushed Taringail had been until Arten raised her from the dead, it had been the first attack of the dragon wars.

"Galadred. I am surprised to have run into you here." Alehial says not even using any formalities with this man who was still technically her uncle. But not. There was something else they were after she knew, they were acting strangely even for him.

"My work takes me all over, oddly to find you here while Galin is also here. I had hoped to try bringing him back into the fold and abandon his guild. But, I see with you beside him it will take a greater event to make him take his place back." Galadred kept his eyes on Alehial.

"Your work you say?" Alehial says before narrowing her eyes. "I am not now nor will I ever be with Galin. I am here for my own business." Alehial scowls gently before looking closely at the man trying to take in all the details about him and the two men with him. "we have been looking for you Galadred, to try to convince you to make peace with the humans." Alehial spoke in high elven this time.

"The only thing I need humans for is to join the Disciples so I can use them to bring about the pure elven kingdom. Galin was a fool to give up the title of Soth, a title I am using to swell my army of agents." he replied to her. The two men looked a little confused at what was being said in the elven tongue.

"The great kingdom split! Slidea knows little of the elves that moved North! Give up this dream Uncle. You cannot control all hearts." Alehial continued to try to reason with Galadred, she was relieved though that he had not been teaching his followers high elven, she would have used the more common Elven but was uncertain if they knew of that... and she tried not to use the Druid language unless pressed.

"I will not remake Sildea, I found that the elves there have turned away from the pure teachings. I will crush whatever I need to and rebuild the elves the true elves from that dust and we will march forward and push the other races away from the sacred forests." Galadred said smiling to his men and looking at Alehial. "And that elven blood must be pure to escape the cleansing fires."

"we are the true elves. There is only one sacred wood of the elves... pure elven... full blooded? You are not making sense Galadred! How will you rebuild the elves when we are still here? True elves? Are you planning on mass murder?" Alehial was confused, each time he spoke it sounded like he meant something else. The Sacred Wood was in the middle of Sildea, not far from the capital. It was the only one Alehial had ever heard of. She was worried Galadred meant to try to purge the world, of half elves and quarter elves? Her hand tightened on the hilt in her pocket and hole. He was up to something more she just knew it.

"Mine will be the divine fire of the forest that will return the world to right. Sildea will burn away with the unpure and the true elves will keep the refuse from ever again soiling our lands. The sacred kingdom will flourish and men will fear the elves again." he said.

The two men were looking back and forth between Galadred and Alehial trying to figure out what the were saying to no avail.

"You cannot be serious!" Alehial spoke in the common tongue in her shock, her eyes wide as she searches her uncles face. " You would burn down the entire wood. Just to satisfy your delusion?!" Alehial asks in high elven she was in disbelief at what she was hearing. Galadred planned to burn down the woods... Sildea, her home and her people. "You would kill thousands? Children even for this dream?" she asks softly then.

"Only those of muddled blood and that who refuse to follow the new reigme." he answered looking at the two men. Galadred looked at the men and smiled, easing their shocked look when Alehial's outburst happened.

"And if no one will follow Your new regime? Would you hunt down every person with elven blood in them and slaughter them Galadred?" Alehial asks also turning and flashing a quick small smile at the men. Before searching her uncles face once more. He was earnest, he was steady fast, he truly believed in everything he was telling Alehial.

"No, kill enough humans and they will take care of the rest. But, there will be some who must be handled delicately or at least by those able to defeat them. In time every race will pull away from Sildea's border and give me and my followers time to extend the sacred trees pushing the borders further out." he explained.

"You intend to make elves an enemy of every other race? Ruin all that we have accomplished for the betterment of Elven kind by cutting them off once more from the outside world? What do you mean extend the Sacred Trees?" Alehial asks tilting her head, and furrowing her brow trying to understand her uncle and his insane idea's. she might never be able to understand, or sway him... but if it came down to it to save her family and her people... she would kill him if she had to.

"I will carry the seeds of the sacred trees outward from the grove and plant them, using the unworthy as fertilizer to help them grow strong. I have no more time for this, go prepare your household for there will be none left." he said turning to walk away from her.

Alehial said nothing for a moment before reaching out and grabbing his elbow, in the same moment she pulled the sword from her hole and pocket. She plunged it toward her Alternate Uncle's chest upwards, hoping to skewer him from the side and through the heart in one blow. He would not talk or even attempt to listen to reason... then she would take care of the problem before it got too big.

The moment she touched him he shifted his form, a starling rose up and into the sky. Leaving Alehial with weapon in hand with the two men who were quickly overcoming the shocking events they just saw.

"Put the weapon down, you are under arrest!" said the first throwing back his cloak to show the emblem of the city watch. The second man stepped back in case Alehial started to fight so he could summon more guards.

Alehial snarled an Elvish curse at the guards before shifting her form to the smaller Jaguar form of hers and she took off into the crowd of the market to climb up one of the buildings quickly in an alley. Her golden coat and red rosettes were perfect for Jungle and even desert, but in the market unless one mistook her for a dog she was sort of obvious. However in this form is she could get to the rooftops she could run and they wouldn't be able to catch her.

Alarms went up on all sides as she made her escape, where would she go now? Galadred was talking about killing thousnads of people and now she was on the run from Valusian city guards. Her options now were Lily and her friend or back to Galin.

Alehial ran to a dark Alley and dropped her from. She then quickly climbed up the side of a building, thankful these buildings weren't as smooth edged as those back home. Once on the rooftops she stayed low and cursed at herself. She needed to lay low for a bit, she still needed to see Lily and her man too... Alehial sighed softly and fished around in her pocket for a moment before pulling out A Hat of Disguise.

Through the doors of the Tavern walked a tall man, dark brown hair, an intense pair of eyes peered around. Tanned skin, a beard of a few days unshaven along his square jaw. He was very clearly a ranger from his clothing and his slightly long unruly hair. He sought out Rosi, and smiled politely at her. "I need to see Lily, now. She is expecting me." Said this tall handsome stranger.

Rosi smiled and swayed up to the man, "My friend Lily has a friend, but you can visit with me it'd be safer." Lily and Da'Karis had returned in a slight mood and that never voted well, and also there were a lot of new faces in the tavern tonight. Even the normal clients were a bit on edge with everything going on.

"As sweet as that offer is... I must insist you take me to see Lily, it is of some importance." The man said with a smile and a twinkle in his eyes at Rosi. The stranger looked around the room then before his gaze settled once more on Rosi.

Rosi's eyes also changed, "You don't work for her uncle do you? Or are you some other kind of family?" It was easy to tell that Rosi was concerned for her friend.

"I work for no one. I am simply here to speak with Lily of that I can promise you." His face went serious, a small crinkle between his brows as he looked down at the young girl before him. He kept eye contact the entire time, never once looking away from her face.

Rosi eyed him carefully, "If I take you to her you must promise to keep any hands away from weapons. He is rather serious about her safety." She then motioned him to follow her up the stairs.

"As am I, in fact." The man says but nods his understanding and follows Rosi up the stairs. He was making note of the building and the rooms, he appeared calm and undaunted by going into Da'Karis' private chambers.

Rosi knocked and waited for someone to admit her entrance.

"Rosi! I'm glad you are here my... Daddy?!?!" Lily had opened the door and whatever she has said was ended as she fearfully squeaked out the rest. She dropped the door handle and her face was pure panic as she looked back into the room at Kar. There was no way she could hide him and mom hadn't said a word about Dad being around... but mom was hanging around uncle Galin... Lily's head began to pound then.

The man chuckles and reaches up to remove hit hat, which then let everyone see the small statured half elven that looked very similar to Lily herself. "No need to panic Lily, your father isn't here. I however young lady am." Alehial went from having a good chuckle to her tone sharpening making Lily flinch. "Now then... I assume we can speak candidly here?"

"Yes... I mean... is Kar doesnt mind us using our... uh... his chambers." Lily says beginning to chew on her bottom lip nervously again.

Rosi had a look on her face that Lily had never seen before, "Dearest before you talk I must make a slight admission." She then looked at ALehial and then back to Lily and Da'Karis and went to say something until Da'Karis beat her to the punch.

"Lily, Rosi flirted with your mother while she looked like your father. Really is it that hard to say Rosi?" Da'Karis said calmly. Rosi retorted, "Votre seul à parler, d'ailleurs il est venu chercher Lily. Je faisais attention."

"Well to be fair.... that was probably.my dad in his twenties or thirties..." lily says with a look of apology to Rosi. She glanced at her mother the , she wanted to laugh because that was hilarious but she was worried her mom might get jealous or something.

Alehial smiles softly. "At the time, I couldn't really see his charm but plenty of other females did. Dont be ashamed Rosi, it was not my intention to fool you to make fun. Just to... hide my own appearance." Alehial says eyeing Rosi and this Da'Karis fellow her daughter apparently nick named Kar.

"Welcome into my home lady Ravenwood." Da'Karis said with a low bow, "Rosi, could I trouble you for some tea and perhaps scones." He did not mention where Lily slept as he did not feel it was her mother's business at the present time. "Are you being followed Lady Ravenwood, is that why you used the disguise?" Rosi nodded and left the room to get some tea and scones, best not to get involved with the whole business.

"I found... someone else from the family here and may have tipped my hand to the local authorities towards my slightly aggressive nature." Alehial said diplomatically. Lily would catch on immediately but Kar Alehial was unsure about. She did step further I side though and kept the hat of disguise in her hands.

Lily looked at her mother before groaning. "Mom... are you sure it was him? Did he say why he was here too?" Lily asks softly wanting to get all her ducks in a row... which in this case happened to be homicidal family members.

Da'Karis was lost at this point, he closed the door behind Alehial and moved to the window. It seemed mother and daughter had much to discuss and Lily would let him know what he needed to know shortly.

"Oh I am positive... but we can speak of that later. I am here right now and wish to discuss all the things that entails such as... why the two of you are sharing a room?" Alehial nods at first and then puts one fisted hand on her hip and cocking her hips just enough that said she severely disapproved of her just legal daughter living with an assassin, though still unconfirmed at this point.

Da'Karis raised an eyebrow at the comment and looked to Lily for her response with none forthcoming. "it was my room first." was his reply, "as I understand you shared a tent with her father."

Alehial was tempted to grin at this man, but she kept the stern look. "We have not been formally introduced. I am Lillian's mother, Alehial Ravenwood at your service." Alehial says looking him straight on. She did however say softly in Elven to Lily. "Chasing apples I see."

Lily was of course was a little mortified by her mothers direct and blunt manner with Kar. When Kar gave his answer and even his retort Lily held her breath a moment. Afraid her mother might take offense until of course her mother spoke in elven softly. Lily blushed and smiled relieved though. "I may have... told him a few stories about you and Dad." Lily says in common, not wanting to be rude to Kar.

"I know who you are Lady Alehial Ravenwood, wife of Altair and mother to many. I am Da'Karis of Valusia and our paths have somewhat crossed before." Da'Karis said in perfect high elven although it had a slightly odd accent.

"Yes I beleive you did some work in our neck of the woods." Alehial says not missing a beat, however she was surprised at his fluency, even accounting for the accent marring a few inflections. "Do I have you to thank for bringing Lily here or is Gerard around so I may give my personal thanks." Alehial asks trying to gauge this man better.

Lily on the other hand was entirely shocked and tried to recover by turning to pour tea. Heaven forbid her mother found out that she is living with him, sleeping with him and not even know much about the man. Like apparently he speaks perfectly fluent high elven.

"Gerard if you wished to express thanks you'd need a necromancer or priest." he replied. "And yes, your son and his wife probably have my actions that they remained together." he admitted. Turning to Lily he smiled, "We never discussed known languages."

Lily smiled at Kar but glanced at her mother, before pouring three cups and offering seats at the table. "I knew you had skills for it." Lily says trying to lessen any damage his comment might have done.

"I'm sure you finished the job satisfactorily in both cases, you seem to know what you are doing at least." Alehial says taking a seat to calm Lily if nothing else.

Da'Karis sipped his tea and kept his eyes on Lady Ravenwood, "Thank you for the praise of my skills. But, I doubt that is all you wished to discuss with us or just with Lily."

"There is much I wish to say... and a few things I wish had been explained before but now I worry neither of you want me even around, to explain or otherwise." Alehial says taking her seat and sipping the tea, it was a little spicier than she was used to but no less good.

"Mom... I know you want to lecture me... I know I was young when I left... I did bad but... thankfully it worked out. Because of Kar." Lily said walking over to the table and taking a seat as well.

Da'Karis remained silent, he was more than willing to let Lady Ravenwood have her say and to let Lily speak as well. "Then I think the two of you should 'talk'" he said stressing the idea of discussion and not lectures or complaints.

Lily glances at Kar and then looks at her mother before looking down into her tea cup. She began to chew her bottom lip.

Alehial sighs softly and her face softens, into a more relaxed and pleasant look. "I went ask... the numerous questions I have of betrayal and such." Alehial pauses looking down at her own cup for a moment. "Lily stop chewing your lip, no one likes kissing sandpaper." She says taking a sip of her tea with a grin as Lily brushes brightly and her hand flies to her mouth. "We cannot undo what you've done. I doubt that it will make the hurt we all feel lessen. However, I'd rather see you prepared than not." Alehial says softly before rummaging in her pocket containing her hole again.

"Mom... before you do whatever it is... I just needed to do this. For me... because of me. I know I did it the wrong way and all but... when I'm here... I'm the me I always wanted to be. And-" Alehial silenced Lily by pulling out a saber, and then a punch of coins by the sound of it. She then pulled out a few options and the second ring of protection she gave all her adventuring children, though this was was for feather fall, since Lily took after her father so much. Alehial also pulled out some sturdy elven boots and elven maile chest piece. A wand of block the seed and dilatory.

"I'm afraid I didnt bring everything... this is just some of it... but it should help while you adventure... If you want the rest you will have to come home to get it. Grandma Lai misses you a great Deal and Aunt Arten as well." Alehial says smiling at her daughter, gently reaching out to take Lilys hand in her own.

Da'Karis remained quiet while they talked, it was nice to see neither was attacking or on the defensive.

"Mom... is Daddy okay?" Lily asks softly looking at her tea. It hurt her to know her mother was willing to forgive her and still want to protect her. Lily thought for sure her mother would literally drag her home. This was unexpected to say the least. She tightened her grip on her mothers hand though, and realized that now that she was eighteen... she was bigger than her mother, taller, more filled out. It was a little startling to think of her mother as small now.

Alehial sighs softly again and finishes her tea. "He is... as he has always been, rude, stubborn, over enthusiastic... he just wants you safe dear. I'll make a report on your situation when I get back. But I'll omit the bits about your boyfriend and your living arrangements." Alehial says eyeing Kar again.

Da'Karis returned her appraising look, he had heard of how the Ravenwoods were and was surprised that he was something to be omitted of in her report.

"Don't misunderstand young man. I will divulge about you. Just not your intamacy with Lily. My husband can be a tad over bearing and overly protective of our girls... but what we do, and the way we do it is for their benefit. The benefit of all my children. Of my blood or otherwise." Alehial says smiling mischeiviously at Lily.

Lily nodded though and was trying to sort her thoughts. Mother was being so reasonable it... made it seem like Lily was in the wrong. "Tell Conner mom... tell him it's not his fault okay? And that I'll write. To all of you." Lily says her hands fidgeting with her clothes under the table, so she wouldn't get scolded again.

"That's another concern... none of our spells could find you... and poor Darryl's been searching everyday." Alehial says
raising an eyebrow at Lily who then blushed. "I know... I was um... hiding. But I took it off... I tried calling out to him but I dont think he can hear me still." Lily says quickly to back herself up and out of yet another hole in her story.

"There has been a rise of magical items that have been able to thwart scrying lately." Da'Karis said taking a sip of tea. Lily still did not need his help, but a word or two to show her he was still on her side didn't hurt.

"Magic powerful enough to thwart a Scion... is usually another Scion." Alehial says thoughtfully glancing at the assassin and then at her daughter, she wasnt certain what Lily had said was true or not... but her boyfriend certainly appeared to support her. "I want regular reports sent to the house Lily and I mean it. While you may technically be an adult now. It doesnt mean you should run around without back up available. And Da'Karis... if there is ever a need, especially involving Lily's safety do not hesitate to call upon our household. Once the two of you wed, you will be a part of this family to young man." Alehial says with an air of finality.

Lily went from looking thoughtful to ashamed to shocked. "Mother! Whether we um marry or not isn't really any of your business!" Lily says blushing brightly as she half stood out of her chair in defence of Kar maybe feeling awkward about this topic "we can handle ourselves just fine anyways!" Lily says a touch aggressively.

Da'Karis found it very hard not to smile, "I believe there is much in the way on conversations before I refer to you as 'mother'." He knew Alehial was concerned about her daughter, and he tried to make Ldy Ravenwood know that Lily meant everything to him.

Alehial gave her daughter a look then smiled mischeiviously at them. "I beleive it is my business, as you are my daughter. However as long as you send regular reports I see no reason to restrict you in any way. I will try to send more supplies once I get home. I would rather know you are well armed." Alehial says smoothing right over the whole marriage discussion. However Alehial was impressed with this mans ability to keep a straight face.

"And how do you plan to return home?" Da'Karis asked, "If Darryl is unable to move people from one place to another. Will you return to Lily's uncle for help?"

"As hard as it may be for Lily to understand right now... Galin isn't the worst of my worries, top ten... but not top five. So yes... I will be going back to Galin for a short time. It isn't that he cannot, it's more something is blocking him from doing so. Which is a pretty hard feat to manage I might add." She says as a warning to the two of them. Alehial stands then and sighs softly. "Beware anyone of elven decent... times are certainly changing, remember Lily, regular reports." Alehial says sternly to her daughter once more.

Lily watched her mother before standing as well. "Take this back for Conner, and tell him to stay tough mom." She says before heading to the little chest containing her stuff. She pulls out a braided string of beads and silk rope. Clearly from the markets but there was also a single blue pearl at the bottom of it. "For good luck." Lily says with a smile handing it over to her mother before hugging the slightly smaller woman tightly.

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Valusia XXIV