Tour of the Elven Imperium (IC/Closed)

[The Selkie]

To: The Selkie

Zaihar'lanna responded at Donald words. "Very well. Follow me." The princess stated as she walked at the head of her entourage. She lead the group towards a group of beautiful carriages. There was three. Each carriage seem to made of fine white wood with gold inlay. Four perfectly white horses pulled each carriage. The drivers were dressed in ceremonial armor along with a pair of guards sitting on the carriage. Despite the presence of archaic weapons like swords and bows, the group could also see some modern small arms present among the guards. Zaihar'lanna got in the middle carriage and gesture for the Selkians to follow. Once inside the Selkie could see the beauty of the interior. Their was plush gold interior with seated cushions. There was wine available for the guests. It was the finest vintage of Elven wine, a favorite of Zaihar'lanna. Naturally she would not partake until her guest did.

Once everyone was aboard the carriage caravan took off. The caravan took a scenic root to the Imperial palace. It would take sometime before the group would reach the palace. As they travel, Zaihar'lanna spoke to the group. "Our trip will take some time to get to the palace. If you have any questions you liked answer. I will do my best to answer them." Zaihar'lanna then notice that Marla was still having discomfort. This was being to get to Zaihar'lanna. Despite her lack of empathy to humanity, she still a woman of pride. To have a guest hurt, when help and succor was in host ability to provide was annoying. It attack her pride, which for her race was paramount. Seeing Marla still in discomfort, Zaihar'lanna spoke. "Lady Marla. I have the ability to heal your injury. I can do this so your honor will not be compromised by my aid. Please let me do"Zaihar'lanna spoke. Zaihar'lanna understood pride. In fact her whole offer was out of pride. She would help Marla in a way not to impose on her honor. The only thing she needed was permission.

---

Gillon was relieved when his guest agreed to postpone a visit to the stables till tomorrow. "Of Course I'll speak to the Stablemaster tonight." He said with a smile. As he thought what to do next, and idea pop in Gillon's head. "Well we could head to the Hotel. There you could either rest. Have dinner or perhaps drinks?" Gillon felt that was good idea, since he would need to make arrangements for tomorrow and needed time. Also the Hotel would be a good spot for the group to unwind. Gillon waited for his guests response before moving out.

---

Shaavel nodded at the Gwen's words and smile. "Yes it does your ladyship." He let her and the wolf climb in the SUV. He sat next to Gwen while Sról sat in the back. The SUV took off heading to a Sun Crown Hotel. It was a hotel well suited for foreign guests. Of course it would take a little while to get there, so Shaavel decided to strike up a conversation. "So Lady Cathlong. What do you think of us Elves so far." He said with a smile.

The carriages were beautiful and, as an equestrian sportswoman of people, who loved and lived with their horses, both Selkie appreciated the white horses, beautiful animals in their own right.
Selkie-Horses were working horses at the bottom of hearts and one saw that with their every move and neigh, while these were simply beautiful. Fit for Rhiannon herself..., as Marla though, giving a nod to the armoured drivers, hoping, that none of them would see her as a threat.
The interior of the carriages was an exhibition of pageantry, artistically beautiful without any doubt, both Selkie agreed on that, and although both weren't wine-drinkers, they took one of the offered glasses, but didn't drink, not for now. The wine smelled wonderful, though.
Their way was quite a looker as well, the capitol of the Elven Imperium was an artistic and architectural beauty, unparalled by any capitol the two of them had ever seen - and they had seen a lot. Metropolises, where millions of people dwelled, cities of flowers and in trees, towns, which seemed to be frozen in time, industrial centres and beautiful palaces, they had seen them all. And, of course, Elder Castle, the town, where the Elders lived and dwelled.
"Our trip will take some time to get to the palace. If you have any questions you liked answer. I will do my best to answer them.", the Princess informed them and seemed to be in some sort of discomfort. "Lady Marla. I have the ability to heal your injury. I can do this so your honor will not be compromised by my aid. Please let me do"
The sportswoman was a bit startled and humbled by the offer - it was an ideal way out of the tight spot she was in. It would preserve her pride and honour and it would help her doing her job here without hazzle (and wearing armour). But it was also a risk: She may had offered it, but maybe the Princess saw offense in it.
Marla glanced over to her companion, who gave a very small shrug. Her decision.
"I would be honoured, Ma'am, but I wouldn't want to impose.", Marla said hesistantly, "I would owe you immensely, though."
Donald gave a small smile - not as he would have phrased it, but still good and hopefully sufficient.

---

The three men glanced among each other, before two of them looked at Tyran.
He knew, that he would be some sort of official speaker for the group beforehand, in fact, that was the reason why he was with them. Vigil wasn't much of a speaker to begin with and no one wanted to have Glynn lead an ambassadorial mission in the widest sense.
"Dinner and drinks sounds like a plan.", he said with a smile towards the prince, "Are there any establishments you would recommend in town?"
Their mission wasn't only to ride through the land, but also to meet the people - and where better meet people then over dinner and drinks?

---

Gwen went along with Shaavel, kissing Sról on the forehead before she closed the door onto him and went to sit besides the Prince.
The large wolf was already plotting his revenge, though, the woman was very well aware of that.
As the SUV took off, Gwen couldn't help to marvel at the city and at her host's reflexion in the window. He was a looker, Gwen had to admit that. The green eyes shone like emeralds, if one asked her.
"So Lady Cathlong. What do you think of us Elves so far." Not to mention, that he had quite an interesting smile.
The Selkie returned the smile. "My first impression of 'you elves'..." She gave the Prince an amused smile, mirrowing his wording. "...is really good. You see, Prince Shaavel, the only Elf I met so far seems like a, as we would call it, mighty fine lad. Decent and upright, if a little bit formal. Sról doesn't like him, but he is always a bit hesitant to trust men, so I hope he doesn't take offense to it. He isn't a post-rider, so he should be fine."
The Selkie turned in her seat, into a more comfortable position to look the Prince in the eyes when talking - not to mention, that her new position emphasized some of her curves. "Please, call me Gwen.", she said.

[The Elven Imperium]

Tormie blushed a little "Oh well....My real interest is dancing. But I am here to learn new things, with my dear mothers."

"Yes," Luiza replied "My dear Tormie is a spirit dancer for our Beloved Goddess but even they must learn to fight, my dear.

"Does he now?" Valenzeula reacted to what the Princess had to say "Ah the exotic beauty always proves a temptation for men. I appreciate your willingness. And such a day comes you visit our lands, we will offer the same protection to you."

"Ours is a land of vast wilderness dotted by small villages. As it was always meant to be"

"We shall walk the way. We've come this far by boat and foot it's all we need."

Tormie voice brought a smile to Acahualli. She was so herself when she was a child. Acahualli responded to the little woman. "Dancing is a very good skill. All my people learn to dance to celebrate our gods." When Luiza spoke up it only confirm the Princess suspicions. That her guests people and hers where kindred spirits. They would indeed teach each other much. Acahualli laughed a little at Valenzeula statement. "I need no protection, but your offer is welcomed."

When the group decided to walk instead of drive in, Esteron spoke. "Well suit yourselves. Enjoy the walk." With that he took of and drove loudly down the dirt road. Acahualli then spoke. "Good your people honor us by not using the foreign ways of travel. We will walk the path of the gods together." With that she began to walk down the path. It was a long walk. Several miles and through jungle. The Princess always looked back to make sure none of the travelers lost their way or got hurt. After a few hours they came upon Teocalli-Tlaneci. It was a series of gridded stone or Adobe homes with several step pyramids throughout the city. Once inside the city, Acahualli guided them into a large stone house. There she put her gear down and bid the travelers do the same. "This my house. You will stay here. Please enjoy the comforts of the house." It was a large house with two main rooms and one room for storage. There also was an attached steam bath room for bathing.

After speaking to the group. The Princess began to strip as she prepare for a bath.

[Dyste]

To Dyste

Nefertari was quite pleased that her guest accepted her gifts. She was even more pleased when they changed to wear the gifts. As each set of clothing was tailor made for both Cori and Sigrin. For Cori the dress was one for a typical male royalty. It did not provide any covering for the upper body, but the magic laced in the clothing prevent both sunburn and heat exhaustion. It also renewed the wearer. The dress was a shear linen that cover his waist and thighs. It was sheer except for the area around the groin. Sigrin wore a dress similar to Nefertari. It was typical long dress of a royal woman. It was made of sheer linen. On the Pharaoh there was covering for her modesty. On Sigrin there was none. Her body glory was on full display for Nefertari and her entourage.

The sight of both Cori and Sigrin before her in the native dresses, made Nefertari very happy. She drank in the view of them both, especially Sigrin. Her eyes flashed with desire towards the Drow. Yes Cori prediction of Nefertari seeking personal time with both Sigrin and himself was most likely a true statement. Nefertari was truly desiring them. It was also no secret that many in her entourage also desired the Drow and Cori. But none would dare try to impose on their Pharaoh. They would have to only enjoy the view and nothing more.

When Sigrin spoke her compliment, Nefertari smiled. "Thank you. I hope you enjoy it." Nefertari gave Sigrin a looked of longing. She had great plans for her. But that would wait. When Cori spoke up it brought Nefertari back to focus. "Of course follow my servants. We have given quarters in my palace." With that a group of servant bowed and gesture the group to follow them into the palace. Nefertari did not follow for now.

The group was lead into a magnificent palace. The walls were made of stone and had weird picture writing on it. Once inside the group was lead to their quarters. Each was lead into a room the size of a large apartment. Each had their own pool for bathing. Each one had a large bed as well. As they group came into their rooms they where greet a group of servants. One of the servants spoke. "These are your room servants. They will help you bathe and dress you. Remember to bathe before dinner." Then the group was left in their rooms with their servants.

If Sigrin was a different kind of woman, she might've been too embarrassed to wear such a dress, but she wore it with pride. There had been times where she had walked the streets of Dyste naked, so such a dress was not too revealing for her. Besides, the fact it resembled Nefertari's own gave her a clear signal what the Pharaoh thought of her. Likewise, she thought Cori wore his garments quite well; being one of the most influential people in Dyste, it gave him the look of a prince while still allowing him to show off his hot body. Indeed, perhaps they should consider using these as regular outfits for events such as these.

When they were led to their rooms, each of the guests reacted differently to what they were given. All of them liked their rooms, true, but none of them had servants on a regular basis. For Reglay, he was a bit uneasy at the idea, having tried to be self-sufficient especially upon the death of his half-brother. However, he still let them do their job. Lysiel was a bit more open to the idea, but she still at times tried to do things by herself, only to have the servants aid her.

For the other two, on the other hand, they were far more accepting of the idea. For Sigrin, this was the first time she had servants in a long time. The Val'Shorath family had been a drow noble family from before Dyste's founding, but due to events out of her control, they had lost most of their influence and land. Thanks to her sister's connection to the future king of Dyste, she managed to avoid complete ruin, and had under her own merits gotten a high-ranking position in Dyste, but she was still not a true noble like she used to be. So, having servants again was something she enjoyed. While she only spoke a bit to them, she relished in their service, allowing them to do their duty to their full extent. She was hoping to get a chance to speak further with the Pharaoh, but that would have to wait until supper.

Cori might be a full-fledged noble, but he did not have much in the way of servants of his own, the closest he had was some of his 'partners'. This was in part because he often viewed himself not as a ruler in his own right, but as a servant of the crown himself. That said, he was not one to deny the service of others when offered. Being a social creature by nature, he eagerly struck up conversations with the ones assigned to him, wishing to learn more about them, the Pharaoh, and the land. He also let them do their job their fullest, showing no reservations of showing his full body to them. If he was not saving his appetite for the Pharaoh's desires, he might've even seen about having some fun here, but Nefertari was their host, and he would follow her wishes to the letter. Regardless, this made him even more certain they not only would the king enjoy himself here, but that he himself wished to make Esetiri one of his regular places to visit. Like the others, he had made sure he was bathed and clean for dinner, anticipating what was in store for them...

[Thaldor]

To Thaldor

Count Malel responded to the Princess's words. "It is a honor to meet you your highness." He bowed before her. Then he moved in front of Sire Alexander. "It is a honor to meet you Lord Alexander." He also said bowing. Then he moved and bowed before Lady Sandra. "It is a honor to meet you Lady Sandra." Finally Count Malel greeted Sir Theodor. "It is an honor." Countess Selana also greeted the group. She bowed as well between the different guests.

When introduction where done, Malel responded to the princess. "Well I am sure my Sha-Coronel would be interested. You can make any request through me or my sister." Malel knew any political decision would have to be made by the Sha-Coronel and his government. But Malel and his sister were official representatives of the Empire. So they could take any request down and forward it Sha-Coronel.

When Lady Bergman asked a question about the empire to the Countess, Selana was not surprised. They were after all here to answer question and aid their guests. So with a smile, Selana responded. "Over Twenty-Thousand years. Of course most structures in the Empire are very recent. Only a thousand or two old."

Once Baroness question was answered, Malel spoke. "We have transportation to the Imperial Palace. If you would follow me." Malel lead the group to a lead the group towards a group of beautiful carriages. There was three. Each carriage seem to made of fine white wood with gold inlay. Four perfectly white horses pulled each carriage. The drivers were dressed in ceremonial armor along with a pair of guards sitting on the carriage. Despite the presence of archaic weapons like swords and bows, the group could also see some modern small arms present among the guards. Malel waited for the group to board the carriages, then he sat back to see if the group had any question while the carriages began to move.

When the count bowed before Alexander the knight had to hide a smile. " That's too much of a honor me lord, I'm a knight plain and simple, a warrior with a title. St. Albans can be proud about their knights sure but still we don't hold manors or estates and therefore the title is the only thing that is different from regular training." That was true allthough he was modest as ever, the knights were selected at a young age, trained since the age of 10 in all skills necessary to fullfil their task. Modesty was one of the tasks deemed necessary to serve as a Knight and Sire Alexander was no exception of that.

---

After the countess told Lady Bergmann how long the elven empire existed it was a huge shock. " 20 000 years ? I believe not even the loremaster of the Citadel is older than 5000 years and the history that he collected is reaching 10 000 years at the maximum, including the History of the Great Dragon who founded the Nation.
Our Human Ancestors came with a ship 2000 or 3000 years ago, no wonder your kind had the time to build this marvels. I'm sure there will be quite a bit interest in Thaldor about this mission. We should had gather a scientifical attachee if we only had known that beforehand." She definitely would need to take a trip to the libraries once the mission was accomplished. It would be a wonder if the dragons herself wouldn't cross the ocean...

---

When they reached the carriages the princess paused for a moment. " It may be some big request, I don't know how much of a guarded secret this kind of matter is here in the Empire. Also it is quite a bit of a story but the short version is, my uncle activated an artifact, it cost his life but that was only the tip of the iceberg, you see we have some kind of mutation for the last 2 months.
Children developed skills over night that only fit the description of magic, they burn homes by accident, cast sparks every time they get angry, that kind of things. It's a problem that is encountered by one of twenty children under 12 years and it is still expanding. You can see that problem that is arrising with such a development, especially giving the fact that Magic in Thaldor was in hibernation for at least 5000 years according to the loremaster. Even most of the Dragons don't know much about this matter, only a handfull are skilled enough to teach the children and there are several thousands of them who will create havoc if they don't learn to controll their skill.
That was one of the prime reasons why we added the Kingdom of Quel'thalas to the list of destinations.
We would be interested in an Audience to the Sha-Coronel regarding this matter.

[Pyeon-Gang Ho]

To: Pyeon-Gang Ho
(This kingdom is under water but I can work with this)


A old human saying was the best laid plans of mice and men. This what Queen felt when she heard her guests lacked the ability to go underwater and dock with the city. So the Queen thinking fast sent one of her own to meet with it and dock. A beautiful submarine surfaced and docked with the Pyeon-Gang Ho ship. The crew helped Yona and Yun aboard their ship. The crew escorted the group to the Queen who sat in special receiving room. The room had a spell to allow the Queen to breath without water. She and her daughter Vairaesearia sat in nice wooden chairs as they waited for their guest to arrive. When they did the Queen rose along with her daughter. Yona and Yun could notice while the retainers were in uniforms and suits, the royalty were not. Both women wore kelp dresses that barely cover their bodies and only enhanced the physical beauty of their bodies. No one seem to react that their queen and princess where scantily cladded. The queen gestured for the guests to take a seat. There was plenty of nice seats in the room to choose from. Some where wood, some coral, and some were made out of sea shells.

When the guest were seated, the Queen spoke. "Greeting travilers. I am Queen Shaetinuina Ap Tari'en'ear, Queen of Aryselmalyr. I welcome you to my kingdom." The Queen paused for a moment and continued. "This my daughter and heir Vairaesearia. She will help guide you through our kingdom." The Princess then nodded at the group. When princess was done, the queen spoke again. "Before we leave to go to my kingdom. I heard from my retainers you have a child that is sick. If you wish we can cure her with our magic and you can bring her along." The Queen waited to see the reaction on the visitors before she spoke again.

"It's a lovely pleasure to meet you. I am Yona, my sister here is Yun. We're both touring on behalf of my father and family and all the Pyeonese to your lovely kingdom." Both the girls took notice to the appearance of their host dress, it wasn't offensive to them but a bit surprising as the Pyeon people always wore very traditional garb the garb that had been worn for centuries. "You're quite pretty" Yun complimented

Then the most surprising question came, asking to cure the child. As a mother, Yona was very tempted to take the offer but as a religious woman it conflicted. "Well I appreciate the offer greatly, but to use Magic or approve of it is usually something reserved for a High Priestess. Toying with the will and powers of our Goddess of the Night can have terrible repercussions."

"It's better we pass on your offer. She will be fine."

"Thank you kindly for offering. She has been ill for days now but she's on the mend."

[Deckersia]

Nathan would begin to walk with the couple, clasping his hands together before him and beginning to speak as they walked towards the motorcade nearby, "Well I'd honestly like to rest up a little bit, the ride over here was quite tiring. Also, Prime Minister Swanson wishes to express his condolences in the fact he could not be here. Sadly his son has been given.. well, he doesn't have much longer. He has Leukemia and the treatments aren't ridding of it." He continues on his journey, stopping a moment to observe the land around him and the couple, he adds, "I love this land I must say, it's beautiful. I can't wait for the tour."

Akihiro responded "Oh I understand ambassador. I too get tired from long trips. Once we reach the palace you will find it quite restful." He said with a smile. The news of prime minister's son caught the Teno of guard. Cancer was almost unknown in the empire. And even then it could be cured. Akihiro spoke up after Nathan spoke. "Well if it not to forward. My people's healers can help your Prime Minister's son. We can actually cure Leukemia with our magic. If you want we can do that now." He spoke with sincerity.

The Empress responded to Nathan statement on hr kingdom. "Thank you we are happy to have you as a guest." Both she and her husband waited for their guest before boarding the motorcade.

The young Ambassador nodded gratefully to Akihiro as he enters the vehicle with the two, "I'll have to go through proper channels of course but I'll be sure to inform him of the abilities." He watches as his luggage is loaded into the vehicle and then turns back to the two, "If you do not mind me asking, how are the lives of your people here? I mean, in a place like this I imagine that there's not much to complain about. And I'm sure that the nation is grateful the Civil War has come to a close."

[Unified Soviet Socialist Republics]

Andrew wet his lips and he turned to his younger brother for strength and he felt a burning close to his chest. "It was late, she asked to take the children when she got a message from home. The last I saw of them was that there was a plane waiting. It was flown by Sqdrn Ldr, Roger Mullganon and his Copilot was Flt Lt Andrew Creadman. Both men had served a combined 30 years as transport pilots for the Mcnernian Royal Air Force. A combined 15 years flying VIP airplanes. We did not hear a distress call, onboard was Her Majesty the Queen, the Princess of Ildris, Amanda, and her sister, Princess Emily of Griffindon. Also onboard was the lady Wyverngard and Princess nIssa, my brothers lover." He sounded like a man who was speaking a report from a coroner. The man was tired, Fredrick was also tired and he was worried for his nissa. There had been much consternation with the Heir, the Prince and his brother the Soverign. "We dont know what happened." Fredrick said. Looking at Faylinor.

Faylinor listen to his son-in-law's words. Once he was done, the old Coronel spoke. "Summon the Archmages. I see them to seer for me." A aide spoke into a telecystral. A few moments later a portal open and a Elf with robes appeared. The Elf moved before Faylinor and bowed. "What is your wish my Coronel." Faylinor responded. "Find my daughter and her companions." The Archmage produced a small sphere. It look like a solid glass orb. The Archmage spoke some words of Elven and it began to glow. Color began to fill the orb and swirl. After a few minutes it took shape of ocean island. Then the picture changed to a beautiful white haired Elf that Andrew recognized. It was the queen. His wife. The Archmage spoke again. "I have located her. I can open portal there if that is your wish." Faylinor turned to Andrew and spoke. "Do you him to open portal now or wait for more aid."

"Is she alone?" This came from Fredrick, the young man looked at the portal. Andrew cut in as well with, "What of the aircraft and the pilots?" The Mcnernian royals considered the business of what was going on here. The Queen was alive. "Is she pregnant? Last I checked we were expecting a son." Andrew got a hungry looking in his eyes. "And what of my daughters?" Fredrick spoke next. "What of Nissa and what of the aircrafts crew?" "What of the Lady Wyverngard and what of the plane?"

[The Elven Imperium]

Selina was still teeming with anger but didn't show it. "No." she said firmly. "You aren't. Don't ever think that. You have no reason to think that. If anyone tells you that I'll kill them." I hope you're happy. You upset both of your mothers. Selina reached down, hands shaking, into a pouch on her hip. She pulled out a small golden orb and held in tight to her chest. It started to glow, and instantly, all of her anger and sadness was gone, replaced with an almost therapeutic sense of calmness. She returned it to its place, and spoke again. "I'm fine now. I needed that."

Alexis didn't really know what to say to her new sister, and they kinda awkwardly looked at each other for a little bit. To break the silence, Grace spoke up. "So uh... Izzie..." she said, instantly nicknaming her sister-in-law. "How uh... How are things?"

Icaria frown when Selina did her action. "Selina you can't keep using the apple. There are consequences." Icaria was scared by the power of the Apple. It was magic she or any Elf understood. It was foreign magic and it was powerful. Icaria hoped this would not be a regular thing.

Istalosa did not react at frist. She didn't understand for a few minutes the nickname that Grace called her. Finally once she reconized the name was for her, Istalosa spoke. "Well besides finding out I had a sister I never knew about. And the anger from not being told. I am fine. By the way. Not to be rude. But who are you? Why do you call me Izzie?" Istalosa paused as she notice Hope who had been quite the whole time during the argument. Istalosa was intrigued by her. She was beautiful, but very shy. She also had something that caught Istalosa, but she didn't know what. The princess wanted to know who she is. Istalosa then spoke again. "And who is she?"

[The Elven Imperium]

Abe's features eased at the words of the Sha-Coronel, "Thank you friend your offer is much appreciated and accepted, and please call my Abraham or Abe; whichever you prefer. We are all friends here after all" The Tsar said all smiles. Seeing a lull an opportunity to interject Arthan raised his voice before the Sha-Coronel "If you would not mind your majesty, I would like to request a guide myself. I would like to visit my mother in Hueanrum, but alas I know not the way to the realm." Arthan said mocking desperation resulting in Abe rolling his eyes at his Uncles behavior

Celanor looked at Arthan. His well experience and trained perception could see through Arthan's deception. He wanted one the princesses to escort him. Like any father, Celanor was hesitant to let any of his daughter be the focus of any potential mischief. But he need to be civil to his hosts. A guide of any lesser station would be potential insult to the Valorono party. Of course any of his daughters would not be easy prey to the any potential suitor. They were well trained, and very intelligent. Of course, they are my daughters after all. Celanor thought with pride. After a few moments as Celanor had his internal debate, the Sha-Coronel spoke. "Very well Abe. To help your Uncle. my daughter Winyayesta will escort Prince Arthan to Hueanrum." He said gesturing to the Black haired young Elven beauty that walk behind the group. Celanor then turn back to Abe. "My friend. Soon I will have to deal with other diplomatic parties. I will leave you in the care of my other daughter Estrilanna. She be able to assist you." Celanor gesture to the woman in golden armor.

The group then enter the palace and broke up a bit. Celanor and his wife said their good wishes to Abe and his party. They then left to head down another part of the palace. This left Abe, Helgi, Arthan, and the two princesses. Estrilanna spoke up. "If your majesty will follow us. We have rooms in the palace for each of you." Estrilanna then lead each guest to their rooms. Helgi looked at princess as they walked. She had the look of a thinly look of desire. She would tag along with Abe and Estrilanna. This will be fun. She thought as they came to their rooms.

[The Elven Imperium]

"Ah, I should have known that question would have come up", Maxwell said, shrugging his shoulders and looking away for a moment. "Well I wouldn't say you're wrong about the lack of romance, but in the defense of the Haktivan people, the concept just isn't understood the same way as others would. We acknowledge that there are many kinds of "love"", he said, using air quotes. "The kind you feel for friends, family, all very understandable. You're most likely talking about infatuation and sexual love. I'll be frank and say those are only looked at in economic terms for the most part, unless of course you trust someone well enough to be willing to have a child with them"

The Ambassador took a moment to gauge her reaction before continuing. "And about Haktivans being a warrior race.... well that's not quite accurate either. There are several different ethnic groups that make up the Haktivan people, but most people consider being Haktivan to be a frame of mind, rather than a bloodline, though that kind of nationalism isn't unknown to us. Haktiva has usually known scarcity, and as such she has known a lot of conflict. It wasn't until the Unification about nine hundred years ago that we stopped fighting each other, after the Old Man conquered all who opposed him and his coalition, though the more cynical would say that just meant we'd spill blood outside of the nation. I would argue that my country has much cooler heads leading it as of late, less prone to launching ourselves into wars where we will lose more than we'd gain. That said, military service is compulsory, and Haktivan Mercenaries do pump a lot of money into our economy, perhaps a few of our dogs of war found their way into your conflict?"

Maxwell cleared his throat, covering his mouth with his fist as he did so.

Selessca looked on with much interest. These where the question she wanted answered. She hope that all her questions about Hakitva would be answered by Maxwell. She listen for a while as the ambassador answer her questions. Once he was done, the princess spoke again. "Well that is...interesting about your people. It definitely different than what my people feel on the subject. So you people procreate as need or for the benefit of the state?" Selessca paused for a moment. She didn't want to be rude. But Haktivan ways where a bit cold to her. No love between couples? Oh I think we be a good match economically so lets have a child. That was no way to have a society. Even the Gray Elves aren't that cold. But I can't tell them that. It's not my place to talk to a foreign people about their beliefs. I'll stick to being diplomatic. Selessca thought. It only took a moment, but then Selessca spoke again. "So you would say your society is much like the human culture of the Spartians or a Communist collective? Selessca was trying to draw comparisons from her lessons and studies. She had study human history quite much over the decades. Of course her choices of societies to compare to Haktiva did bother her a little. Neither was pleasant in her eyes. One was a warrior society that used brutal training to make themselves great warriors. The other was a economic-political system that made society more efficient, but seem rob the society of creativity of life. Thinking a little Selessca spoke again. "So what about desire and physical beauty? Many Elves say I am beautiful. What do you think. And please be honest I won't be insulted." As she waited for her answers, Selessca sat back a little.

[The Elven Imperium]

To: The Selkie

Zaihar'lanna actually cracked a smile when Marla answer. This was good. No chance she would lose favor in court because she couldn't be a gracious host. Zaihar'lanna then moved towards Marla. Zaihar'lanna then looked at Donald for a moment. "Excuse me but some privacy is needed for this. Zaihar'lanna waved her hand and spoke words of Elven. A solid barrier pop up between the two women and Donald. It was sound proof and was a solid gray. Donald could not see into it. Zaihar'lanna then turn back to Marla. Zaihar'lanna need to expose the damage area. She need to touch the actual leg that was wounded. Of course Marla clothing did not allow easy access to her leg, so Zaihar'lanna would have to do things that may embrassed her. Lucky it was just her and Marla. No one else would be privy to what Zaihar'lanna would do. Zaihar'lanna looked at Marla. "I am sorry but I must remove your armor and clothing from your leg so I can touch it. This will only be temporary." With that Zaihar'lanna spoke some words of Elven. Her armor on her legs unlaced and then moved off her legs. Then her leather legging then slip off her legs and onto the floor. This exposed her legs. Zaihar'lanna then moved to the hurt leg and touch it. Marla wince a little from the touch on the hurt area., but she notice how soft and smooth Zaihar'lanna hands were. Moving up and down her leg with her hands, Zaihar'lanna could feel Marla leg. It was more muscular than Zaihar'lanna leg, but it was also smooth as well. The touch was a little embarrassing to Zaihar'lanna because it such nice skin. She blushed a little. The touch had raise a little bit of desire from Zaihar'lanna, but she fought that down. She had a job to do, not molest a foreign digitary. Zaihar'lanna returned to her work and began to speak Elven. Marla notice her leg glow. In a few moments her leg could feel no more discomfort and it was whole. With her hands still caressing Marla leg, Zaihar'lanna looked up at Marla. "You feeling better?"

---

Gillon smiled. "Well the Hotel got a bar and restaurant, But If I was you I go to the Silver Hawk Inn. It's a favorite place of mine. Lots of music, wine, and....ladies." He said with a smile. Gillon would relish a visit there again. It was the place to go for him to relax from being a royal. It was a place he could go and be a normal Moon Elf, not royalty. Of course Gillon would have to have approval from his guests first. So the prince turn and look at his party to see what they thought.

---

Shaavel chuckled at Gwen's answer. He understood her point. He was probably the only Elf the Selkie woman had ever meet. When she turn to look at him. Shaavel almost slip out a flash of desire in his eyes. She was beautiful and he could see more of her body. Of course Shaavel could not let himself fall to his desires. He still was a prince of the Vyshaan and the Empire. He had to act civilly. Even in the presence of such beauty. Taking a moment, Shaavel spoke. "Thank you Gwen and you can call me Shaavel. I never like the prince part too much. Unfortunately I have to play the part I was born in. Even in the presence of a beautiful woman." Shaavel said the last one looking in Gwen's eyes. Her look spoke of his intentions if there the lack of the presence of others. Like Sról and two Elven bodyguards.

[The Elven Imperium]

To: Dyste

The servants in Reglay room where a group of beautiful Esteri women. The helped him undress and get clean up. The servants guided him to the pool and wash him. The servant also where unclad as they wash him. The servant could sense his unease while they wash him, but they continued. To do less would get them punished by the queen. The finished washing him and help him get dress for the dinner.

Lysiel also tried to do things herself but was aided by the servants. Her servants was a mix of men and women. It was quite a interesting when she had to bath with assistance and they were unclad as she was.

Sigin was in heaven. She was attended by servants both male and female. The pampered her. They massage her with scented oils. The servants of course where naked throughout the whole affair. When it was time for Sigin to bathe, She was carried into the water. Their she had one servant wash her. The servant wash her front. Making sure she got every curve. When she washed the back, She did soft circles on her back. She did this for a moment and stop. Then Sigin felt very soft and silky hands on her shoulders and someone whispering in her ears. "Do like this treatment." It was in a voice Sigin recognized. When she turn around, she saw Nefertari in the pool with her. She was in the same state of dress as Sigin. She was sporting a smile of a predator before it attack its prey.

Cori, like Sigin was thoroughly pampered. He was oiled. Massaged and bathed. His servants were all beautiful Esteri women. They also shared Cori state of undress as they did their work. Cori could see that many of them shared desires for him, just like he had for them. When he asked his questions. He got some cute giggles from the group. Finally the one servant directly bathing him spoke. "We are slaves. Servants to the pharaohs service. We are not cruelly treated. We can ask for our freedom whenever we feel like. But for many of us, this is a better life. " The servant worked a knot in one Cori's muscles and continued. "Nefertari is a great lady. She is our god on earth. She is very kind and gentle....Just don't incur her wrath for it is terrible to behold. " The servant then paused to get more oil and continue her work. "The land is blessed as long as you stay near the great river. If you go beyond too far you will enter the terrible desert lands. It a place where no one is meant to live." She said with a quite voice.

[Demincia]

Selina was still teeming with anger but didn't show it. "No." she said firmly. "You aren't. Don't ever think that. You have no reason to think that. If anyone tells you that I'll kill them." I hope you're happy. You upset both of your mothers. Selina reached down, hands shaking, into a pouch on her hip. She pulled out a small golden orb and held in tight to her chest. It started to glow, and instantly, all of her anger and sadness was gone, replaced with an almost therapeutic sense of calmness. She returned it to its place, and spoke again. "I'm fine now. I needed that."

Alexis didn't really know what to say to her new sister, and they kinda awkwardly looked at each other for a little bit. To break the silence, Grace spoke up. "So uh... Izzie..." she said, instantly nicknaming her sister-in-law. "How uh... How are things?"

Icaria frown when Selina did her action. "Selina you can't keep using the apple. There are consequences." Icaria was scared by the power of the Apple. It was magic she or any Elf understood. It was foreign magic and it was powerful. Icaria hoped this would not be a regular thing.

Istalosa did not react at frist. She didn't understand for a few minutes the nickname that Grace called her. Finally once she reconized the name was for her, Istalosa spoke. "Well besides finding out I had a sister I never knew about. And the anger from not being told. I am fine. By the way. Not to be rude. But who are you? Why do you call me Izzie?" Istalosa paused as she notice Hope who had been quite the whole time during the argument. Istalosa was intrigued by her. She was beautiful, but very shy. She also had something that caught Istalosa, but she didn't know what. The princess wanted to know who she is. Istalosa then spoke again. "And who is she?"

Selina put a hand on Icaria's shoulder. "Relax. I'm fine. It just takes away the pain." She put it back into its pouch. She knew Icaria never trusted it. Selina didn't trust it either, but it was too useful to pass up. It had the power to change the world, to enslave the masses, but without its masters around, it was reduced to her method of dealing with hard emotions.

Grace shrugged. "Yeah, I get it. I'm Grace, Lexi's wife. And Izzie's just ya'know, something shorter than Istalosa. Like Lexi from Alexis." Grace nodded towards her sister. "Oh, this lame one here?" She teased. She pulled down her sister's hood so their similarity was obvious. "She's my sister, Hope." Hope smiled awkwardly. "H-hi... Your highness." She said. Grace groaned a little and covered her mouth with her hand. "Ignore her, she's not good at the whole 'talking to others' thing" Hope protested a little but Grace didn't let up till Hope bit her hand. "Ow!" she said shaking it and wiping it on Alexis. "There, now you have something probably." she teased as Hope glared at her.

[The Selkie]

To: The Selkie

Zaihar'lanna actually cracked a smile when Marla answer. This was good. No chance she would lose favor in court because she couldn't be a gracious host. Zaihar'lanna then moved towards Marla. Zaihar'lanna then looked at Donald for a moment. "Excuse me but some privacy is needed for this. Zaihar'lanna waved her hand and spoke words of Elven. A solid barrier pop up between the two women and Donald. It was sound proof and was a solid gray. Donald could not see into it. Zaihar'lanna then turn back to Marla. Zaihar'lanna need to expose the damage area. She need to touch the actual leg that was wounded. Of course Marla clothing did not allow easy access to her leg, so Zaihar'lanna would have to do things that may embrassed her. Lucky it was just her and Marla. No one else would be privy to what Zaihar'lanna would do. Zaihar'lanna looked at Marla. "I am sorry but I must remove your armor and clothing from your leg so I can touch it. This will only be temporary." With that Zaihar'lanna spoke some words of Elven. Her armor on her legs unlaced and then moved off her legs. Then her leather legging then slip off her legs and onto the floor. This exposed her legs. Zaihar'lanna then moved to the hurt leg and touch it. Marla wince a little from the touch on the hurt area., but she notice how soft and smooth Zaihar'lanna hands were. Moving up and down her leg with her hands, Zaihar'lanna could feel Marla leg. It was more muscular than Zaihar'lanna leg, but it was also smooth as well. The touch was a little embarrassing to Zaihar'lanna because it such nice skin. She blushed a little. The touch had raise a little bit of desire from Zaihar'lanna, but she fought that down. She had a job to do, not molest a foreign digitary. Zaihar'lanna returned to her work and began to speak Elven. Marla notice her leg glow. In a few moments her leg could feel no more discomfort and it was whole. With her hands still caressing Marla leg, Zaihar'lanna looked up at Marla. "You feeling better?"

---

Gillon smiled. "Well the Hotel got a bar and restaurant, But If I was you I go to the Silver Hawk Inn. It's a favorite place of mine. Lots of music, wine, and....ladies." He said with a smile. Gillon would relish a visit there again. It was the place to go for him to relax from being a royal. It was a place he could go and be a normal Moon Elf, not royalty. Of course Gillon would have to have approval from his guests first. So the prince turn and look at his party to see what they thought.

---

Shaavel chuckled at Gwen's answer. He understood her point. He was probably the only Elf the Selkie woman had ever meet. When she turn to look at him. Shaavel almost slip out a flash of desire in his eyes. She was beautiful and he could see more of her body. Of course Shaavel could not let himself fall to his desires. He still was a prince of the Vyshaan and the Empire. He had to act civilly. Even in the presence of such beauty. Taking a moment, Shaavel spoke. "Thank you Gwen and you can call me Shaavel. I never like the prince part too much. Unfortunately I have to play the part I was born in. Even in the presence of a beautiful woman." Shaavel said the last one looking in Gwen's eyes. Her look spoke of his intentions if there the lack of the presence of others. Like Sról and two Elven bodyguards.

Donald would have been highly interested to watch from a scientific standpoint, but he understood the appearance of the viewscreen - a bit of privacy was well deserved. But why not ask?, he thought with a bit of bitterness. He would have looked out of the window, if wished.
Marla meanwhile was a bit surprised at getting undressed, quite effctively at that. I need to remember that, might come in..., she thought, before the Princess actually touched her leg - it stung, but the mere touch already had something soothing to it. The pain got lesser and lesser, as a small blush appeared on the Princess' face.
Marla thought, it was because of her effort she put into healing her leg.
Then, it began to glow. "You feeling better?", the Princess asked.
Marla was more then just impressed. She was awed. Her mind blown. Her pain was gone.
Simply vanished like the breeze. "Yeah...", the Marcach breathed - the Princess was still at her leg and if Marla was honest with herself, she liked the touch, firm and strong and soft and soothing at the same time.
It felt nice and warm... a small blush appeared on her face.

---

"Then it's settled.", Glynn spoke for his companions, "The Silver Haawk Inn will get to meet Selkies tonight. Or the other way around."
"Of course...", Tyran said and looked at his two friends, "...we will go there for the music and the food going along with the wine."
"Of course.", Vigil rumbled with a smirk.
Glynn put his words off with a wave of his hand, grinning. "Who's interested in ladies anyway?"
Tyran joined the merry joking around with his friends: "Puh-lease!"

---

"Thank you Gwen and you can call me Shaavel. I never like the prince part too much. Unfortunately I have to play the part I was born in. Even in the presence of a beautiful woman.", the Prince Shaavel said, looking into her eyes.
Gwen smiled with a small blush, which both turned lascivious as the Selkie slid down a tiny bit in her seat, pronouncing her curves more. "We all have our parts to play on the Stage of Life.", she said, "The only thing we have to ask ourselves is, when we can shed our roles and live."
She whispered the last thing, seeing that she leaned in to whisper it into Shaavel's ear. If he would take in air, he would smell her, so close was she too him, not caring for any watching bodyguards (they weren't doing anything indecent, were they?). He would not smell a parfume, Selkie didn't wear parfume to the Geansai - he would smell her bath salt and the shampoo she used for her long hair, both natural products of the Free Lands.
It was a wild scent, like a field of undisturbed flowers and herbs in a garden.
Gwen leaned back as bit to look the man in one eye, her blue sapphires sparkling.

[Haktiva]

Selessca looked on with much interest. These where the question she wanted answered. She hope that all her questions about Hakitva would be answered by Maxwell. She listen for a while as the ambassador answer her questions. Once he was done, the princess spoke again. "Well that is...interesting about your people. It definitely different than what my people feel on the subject. So you people procreate as need or for the benefit of the state?" Selessca paused for a moment. She didn't want to be rude. But Haktivan ways where a bit cold to her. No love between couples? Oh I think we be a good match economically so lets have a child. That was no way to have a society. Even the Gray Elves aren't that cold. But I can't tell them that. It's not my place to talk to a foreign people about their beliefs. I'll stick to being diplomatic. Selessca thought. It only took a moment, but then Selessca spoke again. "So you would say your society is much like the human culture of the Spartians or a Communist collective? Selessca was trying to draw comparisons from her lessons and studies. She had study human history quite much over the decades. Of course her choices of societies to compare to Haktiva did bother her a little. Neither was pleasant in her eyes. One was a warrior society that used brutal training to make themselves great warriors. The other was a economic-political system that made society more efficient, but seem rob the society of creativity of life. Thinking a little Selessca spoke again. "So what about desire and physical beauty? Many Elves say I am beautiful. What do you think. And please be honest I won't be insulted." As she waited for her answers, Selessca sat back a little.

Maxwell chuckled. "Your people certainly aren't wrong about your beauty", he said, grinning in amusement more than anything. "In regards to how our society operates, well there is a degree of promiscuity but it's not socially acceptable for the most part. Sex is viewed in economic terms, both for the interest of the individual and society by extension. In humans promiscuity is fun and all, but there's a higher risk for disease, particularly in places that lack modern medicine. There's also a guarantee of paternity for the man if he knows and has witnesses to a woman's chastity. He knows the kids are his and the investment in the mother and the children are worth his time and effort. Nowadays of course women can provide for herself, and single motherhood isn't quite is vilified as it is in other societies, but unless one is crippled or simply too old or young to provide for themselves, it's considered extremely shameful to take charity in Haktiva. We aren't without compassion, but the standards for our own people are higher than what we expect from others"

The ambassador looked her over once more, observing her body language before continuing. "And before I forget, as a certain individual warned me about this, no we don't look at it solely economically. We don't get married just because it makes good business, we actually enjoy the company of our partners. If it was just a matter of reproduction, artificial wombs would be making all the babies. For a child to be a good person, at least by Haktivan standards, they have to have parents of good character. The state cannot replace a mother or father in that regard"

[Ilha das Tormentas]

Tormie voice brought a smile to Acahualli. She was so herself when she was a child. Acahualli responded to the little woman. "Dancing is a very good skill. All my people learn to dance to celebrate our gods." When Luiza spoke up it only confirm the Princess suspicions. That her guests people and hers where kindred spirits. They would indeed teach each other much. Acahualli laughed a little at Valenzeula statement. "I need no protection, but your offer is welcomed."

When the group decided to walk instead of drive in, Esteron spoke. "Well suit yourselves. Enjoy the walk." With that he took of and drove loudly down the dirt road. Acahualli then spoke. "Good your people honor us by not using the foreign ways of travel. We will walk the path of the gods together." With that she began to walk down the path. It was a long walk. Several miles and through jungle. The Princess always looked back to make sure none of the travelers lost their way or got hurt. After a few hours they came upon Teocalli-Tlaneci. It was a series of gridded stone or Adobe homes with several step pyramids throughout the city. Once inside the city, Acahualli guided them into a large stone house. There she put her gear down and bid the travelers do the same. "This my house. You will stay here. Please enjoy the comforts of the house." It was a large house with two main rooms and one room for storage. There also was an attached steam bath room for bathing.

After speaking to the group. The Princess began to strip as she prepare for a bath.

"Your hospitality is most generous, thank you" Valenzuela thanked her

"This is quite a village, I would like to wander and see it" Tormie gleefully looked out the windows to take in the sights

Val caustiously replied to her, "I'm sure the Princess will gladly show you around, Tormie but for now it's best you stay here. We don't want you getting lost"

"Yes, mother. Oh the Princess seems so nice. I hope she'd come visit us on Tormentas one day."

"Yes, I'd too love to learn more of the Elf Royals here." Val mused, it was kind of ironic considering Val was the key figure of deposing the royals that once ruled the lands of Ilha das Tormentas and her hatred of nobility was usually known but considering these lands, they felt more like the key figures in the Tormentas government than the traditional lavish royals of other nations. Trovão let out a yawn as he nestled in to sleep.

[The Elven Imperium]

To Thaldor

The two Dukans listen to the princess's words. They looked at each other for a moment. Finally Selana spoke up. "Your Highness. Magic is a natural part of our society. All Elves to a certain extent practice it. Your situtation sounds like your children have very strong connection to magic if they are manifesting it without training. In fact that level of power normally takes years of training to reach naturally. I can see how that is a problem." Selana said with a little frown.

Malel then spoke. "Your Highness. There are many kingdoms in the empire who study magic and the Art. Besides Quel'thalas there is Nadaesiel. The Gray Elves there have study magic for milenia. There is also Aryvandaar the homeland of my people, the Sun Elves. We have made our study of the art second to none." Margaret couldn't know since she was new to the Empire. But she on a touchy subject for the Empire. All the kingdoms of the Elves prided themselves in their skill in magic. Indeed each kingdom had their own masters of their own particular art. Certain Elven races consider themselves to be THE experts of magic. The Sun Elves, The Blood Elves, and The Gray Elves. Of course as a Sun Elf, Malel had bias to his people.

Selana sense that Malel was getting to personal in answer the princess's question. "Also your highness could visit the Imperial Academy. The best and brightest of our leaders of the Art teach there. They could give you a wonderful knowledge on magic without having to visit the above nations." Selana said with a smile.

Selana words brought Malel back to his diplomatic stance. "As for your request to see the Sha-Coronel over this topic. I am sure once we get to the palace, we can arrange a meeting with his majesty." Malel spoke as he got in the carriage. Selana waited to see if the group had any other questions before boarding the carriages.

[The Elven Imperium]

"It's a lovely pleasure to meet you. I am Yona, my sister here is Yun. We're both touring on behalf of my father and family and all the Pyeonese to your lovely kingdom." Both the girls took notice to the appearance of their host dress, it wasn't offensive to them but a bit surprising as the Pyeon people always wore very traditional garb the garb that had been worn for centuries. "You're quite pretty" Yun complimented

Then the most surprising question came, asking to cure the child. As a mother, Yona was very tempted to take the offer but as a religious woman it conflicted. "Well I appreciate the offer greatly, but to use Magic or approve of it is usually something reserved for a High Priestess. Toying with the will and powers of our Goddess of the Night can have terrible repercussions."

"It's better we pass on your offer. She will be fine."

"Thank you kindly for offering. She has been ill for days now but she's on the mend."

The queen smiled to her guest kind words. "Thank you both of you for your kind words. I hope you enjoy your stay in my kingdom." The Queen and the princess notice their surprise looks on their guest faces when they saw their dresses. The queen then spoke again. "Thank you Yun for the compliment. If you desire, we can provide some our dress for you both."

As she waited for an answer to that question, the Queen sat back. She was a little disappointed in the refusal of her offer to heal the little girl, but she understood her guest reservations. Many humans had beliefs that where different than her people. When Yona mention her goddess, the queen understood her offer touch on her guest's beliefs. Not wishing to impose on her guests. The queen would let the matter drop.

As the queen and crown princess entertain their guests in the audience room, the submarine sank into the water. It had begun its journey to the capital. It would be a long journey as there was some distance to the main city. This suited the queen just fine as she needed some time to get to know her guests better.

[The Elven Imperium]

The young Ambassador nodded gratefully to Akihiro as he enters the vehicle with the two, "I'll have to go through proper channels of course but I'll be sure to inform him of the abilities." He watches as his luggage is loaded into the vehicle and then turns back to the two, "If you do not mind me asking, how are the lives of your people here? I mean, in a place like this I imagine that there's not much to complain about. And I'm sure that the nation is grateful the Civil War has come to a close."

Akihiro smiled as Nathan mention that he would inform his leader about getting his son healed. This made Akihiro happy. No one deserved to suffer if their was a cure to the disease. He would make sure his best healers would attend the Prime Minister's son.

Nathan question somewhat confused Akihiro. He was asking a question that most people would find strange. his race of Elves were used to living the same lives that they always have been for centuries. Change was not generally welcome, but the Teno's reforms had been working to change that. Akihiro didn't know how to answer that question properly as it was a question his own people were in flux. The old and the new had clashed, but now their was a settling between those opposing ways of life. Akihiro looked at Nathan. "We my people have lived the way they have for centuries. We elves don't complain much and to be honest there is not much to complain about. With our magic food is plentiful and we don't have the same values on wealth like humanity so every Elf is living comfortably. As your comment on Kin-Slayer war. I myself am very grateful. It allows me to enjoy the time with my wives, especially this one." The Teno said kissing his wife. The couple kiss for a while. The love they share not fading even over the decades. Finally they separated. Looked at each other for a long while and turn back to their guest. The couple tried to not look embarrassed, but was failing. They sat there awkwardly as they waited for Nathan to speak up or board the vehicle.

[The Elven Imperium]

"Is she alone?" This came from Fredrick, the young man looked at the portal. Andrew cut in as well with, "What of the aircraft and the pilots?" The Mcnernian royals considered the business of what was going on here. The Queen was alive. "Is she pregnant? Last I checked we were expecting a son." Andrew got a hungry looking in his eyes. "And what of my daughters?" Fredrick spoke next. "What of Nissa and what of the aircrafts crew?" "What of the Lady Wyverngard and what of the plane?"

The Archmage return to scrying. The globe glowed again and produce an picture. The moving picture produced many images that moved like a television screen. The Archmage spoke words of Elven and the pictures flash before them. One moving image was sight of a wreaked plane. Damaged beyond repair and broken into many pieces. The next image was was a couple graves with crude Mcnernian crosses over them. A another image flashed with Silvarianna talking with a young man. He was handsome and looked allot like Andrew when he was young. The Archmage spoke again and the globe flashed more images. The next image was of two beautiful Elven women helping to gather food from garden. The had Silvarianna's beauty mixed with Andrews. The next image flashed on was a beautiful dark skin Elven woman talking to a beautiful Silver dragon. There was other dragons flying over their heads. They would land and take Elven or human shape.

The Archmage looked back at the group of royals as he waited for their next orders.

[The Elven Imperium]

Selina put a hand on Icaria's shoulder. "Relax. I'm fine. It just takes away the pain." She put it back into its pouch. She knew Icaria never trusted it. Selina didn't trust it either, but it was too useful to pass up. It had the power to change the world, to enslave the masses, but without its masters around, it was reduced to her method of dealing with hard emotions.

Grace shrugged. "Yeah, I get it. I'm Grace, Lexi's wife. And Izzie's just ya'know, something shorter than Istalosa. Like Lexi from Alexis." Grace nodded towards her sister. "Oh, this lame one here?" She teased. She pulled down her sister's hood so their similarity was obvious. "She's my sister, Hope." Hope smiled awkwardly. "H-hi... Your highness." She said. Grace groaned a little and covered her mouth with her hand. "Ignore her, she's not good at the whole 'talking to others' thing" Hope protested a little but Grace didn't let up till Hope bit her hand. "Ow!" she said shaking it and wiping it on Alexis. "There, now you have something probably." she teased as Hope glared at her.

Icaria shock her head. "That not necessary you have me and our daughters. Selina please don't use that thing. Please." She said with pleading eyes.

Izzie walked over to group and smiled. "So you're my sister's wife." She said giving a bow to Grace. She then walked over to Hope and touch her cheek to raise her view to her own. "And you must be my sister in law." Hope got to look deeply into Izzie's eyes. For money she could see a glimmer.

[Demincia]

Selina put a hand on Icaria's shoulder. "Relax. I'm fine. It just takes away the pain." She put it back into its pouch. She knew Icaria never trusted it. Selina didn't trust it either, but it was too useful to pass up. It had the power to change the world, to enslave the masses, but without its masters around, it was reduced to her method of dealing with hard emotions.

Grace shrugged. "Yeah, I get it. I'm Grace, Lexi's wife. And Izzie's just ya'know, something shorter than Istalosa. Like Lexi from Alexis." Grace nodded towards her sister. "Oh, this lame one here?" She teased. She pulled down her sister's hood so their similarity was obvious. "She's my sister, Hope." Hope smiled awkwardly. "H-hi... Your highness." She said. Grace groaned a little and covered her mouth with her hand. "Ignore her, she's not good at the whole 'talking to others' thing" Hope protested a little but Grace didn't let up till Hope bit her hand. "Ow!" she said shaking it and wiping it on Alexis. "There, now you have something probably." she teased as Hope glared at her.

Icaria shock her head. "That not necessary you have me and our daughters. Selina please don't use that thing. Please." She said with pleading eyes.

Izzie walked over to group and smiled. "So you're my sister's wife." She said giving a bow to Grace. She then walked over to Hope and touch her cheek to raise her view to her own. "And you must be my sister in law." Hope got to look deeply into Izzie's eyes. For money she could see a glimmer.

Selina looked at Icaria. "Dear, I'm fine. I swear. It doesn't have the same cost as using it normally." She knew it was technically true, though her mind was still haunted by the voice of the Apple almost constantly, and every use made it echo a little louder.

Grace nodded. "Yes, I am." she said. Hope looked deep into Izzie's amazing eyes, and was almost lost in them. She pulled herself back out and focused. "Uh, yeah, yeah I am." She stood up and offered a slight awkward hug. Grace groaned at her sister's social skills. "Come on sis, she's a princess. You don't just go around and hug them whenever. Well, besides Lexi." she teased pulling Alexis into her arms to prove her point. Inside, Hope still hurt a little at the sight. But she looked back at Izzie and put her arms down, because Grace was probably right.

[The Elven Imperium]

Zaihar'lanna was actually a little fluster. Here she was. A Vyshaan princess of the blood. One of Corellon's chosen family to rule all Elven kind and she was serving a human woman. Also she was enjoying it. Her normally analytical mind was waring with her heart. For the first time in centuries, Zaihar'lanna was feeling desire. She was relishing the smooth skin of Marla. Zaihar'lanna wanted more. In her mind, Zaihar'lanna was having a battle. She is inferior race do not dishonor your blood. She is a diplomatic guest do not dishonor your position. Of course their was the opposing voice. Let go Zaihar'lanna. Enjoy. You have been alone for so long. embrace her, but let her decide.

Zaihar'lanna obeyed the voice in her heart. She looked up at Marla. Her eyes locking with her's "Is there anything else I can do for you." Zaihar'lanna said with a smile. Her hands where still caressing Marla leg.

---

Gillon smiled at his guest words. The SUV started up and took off. It would take half an hour to reach there even in a car. As they drove Gillon had words with his guests. "So what brings you all to the Empire. Business or pleasure." He said paying attention to the rode. Traffic was bad due to all the visiting dignitaries in the kingdom. Gillon had heard the king of Mcneria was in town. He hope he would not get called in to pay his respects. Touring with a bunch of guys was better than a boring state lunch or dinner. The SUV prodded along into the thick traffic.

---

Gwen words almost made Shaavel lose his royal bearing. He wanted to reach across and kiss Gwen passionately. To take her right here. But something prevent that. All his regal training and experience fought against his desires. Gwen could not know that Elven royals had to marry those they wish to lie with. It was a sacred pact with their gods. A reason why the Elves still had absolute monarchs. The god promise the Elf royals the right to rule as their representatives on Earth. But in exchange they had to follow certain codes and pacts. One was to marry before making love. He sat back a little and still locked eyes with Gwen. "The future is always uncertain. But anything is possible if two people are willing."

[Thaldor]

To Thaldor

The two Dukans listen to the princess's words. They looked at each other for a moment. Finally Selana spoke up. "Your Highness. Magic is a natural part of our society. All Elves to a certain extent practice it. Your situtation sounds like your children have very strong connection to magic if they are manifesting it without training. In fact that level of power normally takes years of training to reach naturally. I can see how that is a problem." Selana said with a little frown.

Malel then spoke. "Your Highness. There are many kingdoms in the empire who study magic and the Art. Besides Quel'thalas there is Nadaesiel. The Gray Elves there have study magic for milenia. There is also Aryvandaar the homeland of my people, the Sun Elves. We have made our study of the art second to none." Margaret couldn't know since she was new to the Empire. But she on a touchy subject for the Empire. All the kingdoms of the Elves prided themselves in their skill in magic. Indeed each kingdom had their own masters of their own particular art. Certain Elven races consider themselves to be THE experts of magic. The Sun Elves, The Blood Elves, and The Gray Elves. Of course as a Sun Elf, Malel had bias to his people.

Selana sense that Malel was getting to personal in answer the princess's question. "Also your highness could visit the Imperial Academy. The best and brightest of our leaders of the Art teach there. They could give you a wonderful knowledge on magic without having to visit the above nations." Selana said with a smile.

Selana words brought Malel back to his diplomatic stance. "As for your request to see the Sha-Coronel over this topic. I am sure once we get to the palace, we can arrange a meeting with his majesty." Malel spoke as he got in the carriage. Selana waited to see if the group had any other questions before boarding the carriages.

The crown princess sighted. " The strange thing is that in our believe Magic was dead since thousands of years. Even the Dragons don't remember when the magic vanished. We assume that my uncle had something to do with it. He died in a accident shortly before the problems with wild magic began, all we found was the sword of Thaldor, royal insignia of the high king/queen. What ever he did, in the next hours the first problems occured. Most of them can be categorized as 'destructive' mainly flame relevant, burned buildings, spontaneous ignition and there like. Other magic is probably harder to detect but we assume that most of the new powers have to do with fire for reasons we don't know, in 99 % of all cases it happenes to Children below the age of 10 hitting all kingdoms, rich and poor alike."
After the suggestion of the duchess her smile faltered a bit and she barely beated Volkov with her answer.
" I'm sorry but while we will gladly accept your proposal, we will need to seek out the other kingdoms as well under the order of her Majesty and the Grandmaster.
Especially Grandmaster Leonidas will not be impressed with a rash decission. Oh sorry I forgot, Grandmaster Leonidas of Mount Ares one of the elder dragons and one of the teachers we have at the moment. He was not pleased that we seeked help from the outside in the first hand and he will need prove that we made a good decision. I won't be surprised if he get any progress report that will be distributed to Londra.
Also I don't know how much the situation will escalate in the future, we had 150 000 cases within 2 months and the numbers are still increasing. While this can be a great bone in the future currently we don't have a ratio of 15 000 kids per teacher so I believe we will need the assistance of multiple kingdoms. I believe we will have to discuss that in length with the Sha Coronel as well."

After she waited for a reply, she adressed the Knight. " Sire, you will accompany me in the first carriage." It was better not to show why Lady Bergmann was choosen for this mission, beside her thirst for knowledge. They were seated and the crown princess allowed herself a second to admire the craftmanship the elves developed over the millenia. 'It will be really hard to get Sandra away from this place.'

[The Selkie]

Zaihar'lanna was actually a little fluster. Here she was. A Vyshaan princess of the blood. One of Corellon's chosen family to rule all Elven kind and she was serving a human woman. Also she was enjoying it. Her normally analytical mind was waring with her heart. For the first time in centuries, Zaihar'lanna was feeling desire. She was relishing the smooth skin of Marla. Zaihar'lanna wanted more. In her mind, Zaihar'lanna was having a battle. She is inferior race do not dishonor your blood. She is a diplomatic guest do not dishonor your position. Of course their was the opposing voice. Let go Zaihar'lanna. Enjoy. You have been alone for so long. embrace her, but let her decide.

Zaihar'lanna obeyed the voice in her heart. She looked up at Marla. Her eyes locking with her's "Is there anything else I can do for you." Zaihar'lanna said with a smile. Her hands where still caressing Marla leg.

---

Gillon smiled at his guest words. The SUV started up and took off. It would take half an hour to reach there even in a car. As they drove Gillon had words with his guests. "So what brings you all to the Empire. Business or pleasure." He said paying attention to the rode. Traffic was bad due to all the visiting dignitaries in the kingdom. Gillon had heard the king of Mcneria was in town. He hope he would not get called in to pay his respects. Touring with a bunch of guys was better than a boring state lunch or dinner. The SUV prodded along into the thick traffic.

---

Gwen words almost made Shaavel lose his royal bearing. He wanted to reach across and kiss Gwen passionately. To take her right here. But something prevent that. All his regal training and experience fought against his desires. Gwen could not know that Elven royals had to marry those they wish to lie with. It was a sacred pact with their gods. A reason why the Elves still had absolute monarchs. The god promise the Elf royals the right to rule as their representatives on Earth. But in exchange they had to follow certain codes and pacts. One was to marry before making love. He sat back a little and still locked eyes with Gwen. "The future is always uncertain. But anything is possible if two people are willing."

Marla saw something in the eyes of that woman, something she saw before.
Something she didn't like: That woman was lusting for her. Oh., Marla thought, This could be a problem.
Problem was, although the woman opposite to her certainly was attractive, Marla didn't feel that much attracted. She wouldn't deny a certain feeling of thrill coming from the caressing of her once wounded leg, but it was far from arousal. The Princess helped her much by healing her leg and she would be in her debt for it, but that wasn't how she imagined it.
Addtionally, she was here on a diplomatic mission, so she had to be as gentle as she could. Dang., she thought, When you need this old soot, he isn't there...
The Marcach bent forward and grabbed both of the Princess' hands by their wrist, hoping, that she didn't break any Elven norm or tradition with her action. Gently she brought them away from her legs and together in front of her, softly kissing the stretch of the Princess' pointers in front of her thumbs. It was a Selkie gesture to show gratitude towards a healer and his healing hands, nowadays mostly used to thanks doctors (foreign doctors were sometimes rather startled by it, so it wasn't Marla's first time doing this with somebody, who most likely never heard of such a gesture).
Something in her moaned the loss of the hands on her legs, but she needed to say something: "You did more then I dared to hope in my wildest dreams, Princess. I am in your debt." A shiver went down her bare legs. "And as wonderful your hands are, I should probably get my pants back up before someone gets the wrong idea..."

---

"A combination of both, actually.", Tyran explained for his friends, "The 'Marcach Guild's Expedition to the Elven Imperium', as we are officially called, is an ambassadorial mission of our guild to the Elven Imperium to see how you organize equestrian sports and treat your horses in the kingsdoms we will visit. We were also officially sent to maybe invite colleagues to our lands and to establish ties between your guild or equivalent and ours."
"Unofficially...", Vigil said with a smirk, "...we are on a roadtrip."

---

"Hm...", Gwen said, quite startled with herself and her progress. It was the eternal game some Selkie, herself included, liked to play, the game of teasing and flirting with other people, especially foreigners. She knew, that some cultures had bars against... closer contact before marriage and while the Selkie weren't that strict with this, she knew, that some cultures were very strict in this regard. The question now was, if the Elven culture was one of those cultures.
Unconciously, her hand moved over the back of her seat, hanging down in front of Sról's face. The large wolf knew, that he was needed in some way and moved his head to be under this hand, getting caressed in the process.
This seemed to give his mistress what she needed: "Lodan Lir's is the flow of time, the Eternal River, and his is to command, where it goes.", she recited with a small, sad smile, "But if a large enough pebble is thrown his way, the River changes his way."
She made a small pause, for these words brought some rather unpleasant memories back. "It's an old verse a Priest once told me, back when I was a child.", Gwen explained, looking at the Prince, but not with her previous lasciviousness, but in an honest-to-the-gods way, her curves still pronounced, but now in a slightly subdued way, not the Tits-in-your-face-way (as her mother called it), but in an Earn-what-you-want-way. "It means, that if someone really wants something, he or she might get it."