Quiet Return

[Alais d Nitesong]

Alais silently slipped past the mithril dragon gate, even the guards did not see the dark shadow gliding along the tree lined driveway to the house. It has been years since she'd been to RhyDin. The house looked the same as when she'd left it. The staff down to bare bones, but nothing appeared to be suffering for that down sizing.

She was back.

There were people she had to see, but not tonight.

She slid through the front doors without setting off any alarms and disappeared into the interior of the darkened house.

[Alais d Nitesong]

I' Taurn House (pronounced: ee-torn) North Side of RhyDin

This historic house is located on the North side of RhyDin city, on a broad, tree lined avenue and is the metropolitan residence of a former Overlord of DoS. The home has been in RhyDin for about 1700 years, and has not been changed on the exterior since it's construction by Alais' grandparents. The view of this residence from the street is that the home appears to be set upon a large, heavily treed lot, and surrounded by high stone walls. The stone used to build the walls is dark, greenish basalt that was transported in from a past ocean floor by the sorceress' family centuries ago. Atop the 14' high walls are rapier sharp spikes of mithril-tungsten alloy, meant to discourage the curious from attempting to climb the walls for a view of the yard and house beyond the wall and gates. For those able to "see", the wall is also formidably warded. The walls are nearly 10' thick, in typical style copied by the middle ages of Earth. What is not typical are the wards and the material, which can be opaque or transparent as the need of the owner requires.

The gatehouse is also constructed of the dark green basalt and overlooks a beautifully worked mithril gate. The ornate Celtic Knot and Dragon pattern that forms the gate separates the shady avenue from the private drive to the House. The gate itself cannot be touched by undead or kindred, but is on the surface harmless to all other passersby. The gate does have protections against attempted forced entry, but otherwise customarily remains silently passive. Visitors to I' Taurn are met by Sidhe trained staff prior to admittance to the residence. They are trained in many languages, as well as security. They will do their best to assure rapid and courteous reception.

Beyond the curtain wall facing the front avenue, a gentle slope rises and is dotted with an abundance of large, old trees of mostly Burr oak, and White oak near the edges, but creating a veritable arboretum of rare and unique species as one approaches the house. There are small groves of trees interspersed among grassy open areas to create many small ecosystems for maximum diversity of both flora and fauna. Birds and other creatures have found safe haven among the botanical collection on the property surrounding I' Taurn House. Some of those creatures are quite rare or endangered. This haven does not hold the creatures in, but most have chosen to remain and do not wander away from the property.

As you follow the tree lined drive toward the house, there are livery points for the animals of conveyance just short of a paved walk to the front entry. Guests may arrive using any number of means of transportation, including horses, camels, pegasi, gryphons, and each creature needs specialized tethering or livery points. The paved walkway is done in the same green basalt as the curtain walls and gate house. The paved drive and walkways create veins of green that tie the exterior walls to the house. The main house itself is constructed of white albite cut into ashlar blocks, rising 4 stories in height, and roofed in muscovite mica. The stone used in the construction of the house is starkly different from the curtain walls. The brilliant white appears to be a shining gem set in the dark green of the lawns and stonework. The house is vaguely reminiscent of later crenellated manor houses of Renaissance Britain.

The mullioned windows reflect and refract rainbows of sunlight in prefulgence. The albite rock showing glimmers of more muscovite mica, which enhances the image of sparkling gems set among the emerald greens of the lawns surrounding I' Taurn. This glittering visage lends credence to some of the legends of the Fey. The glittering stone does not look entirely real or solid in sunlight.

Shading the front entry stands a single ivory tree soaring well above the height of the house. The tree is unique in all of RhyDin, and has been growing in this spot since the first ashlar block was laid for the foundation of the house. Alais' forebearers planted this Rouwan with the laying of the foundation stone in accordance with Sidhe beliefs that the Rouwan and the house would stand the tests of time together. When one falls, both fall. As long as they both survive, they prosper together. The tree's massive branches provide shade for those approaching the front entry way of the structure.

As you step through the tall, magnificently wrought oaken doors, the entry foyer is a study in white. The polished albite stone of the floor is met by the white marble of the foyer walls in a seamless transition. Overhead, the vaulted stone ceiling soars 2 stories as dual curved staircases arch elegantly to the floors above. An enormous, ornate Mithril chandelier dominates the overhead space, and is lit with fairy fire when required.

Open balconies overlook the entranceway. White marble railings have been worked into intricate designs that provide a soft glow in the daylight, or by fairy light. Furnishings are sparse as this is not the congregating area, but merely reception, and all furnishings in the foyer are in mithril and white materials. The effect is one of cool, elegant simplicity.

To the right of the entrance hall, there is a set of elaborately carved white oak double doors leading to the Great Hall. These 4 doors have a dragon and celtic knot pattern first seen at the mithril entry gate, that seems to change depending on the weather, as though the dragons carved into the wood can move, yet they are never seen in motion. The warm shades of the white oak is the first greeting guests receive to the Great Hall beyond after encountering the cool light of the white marble and mithril entryway.

The Great Hall rises 2 stories in height. The cut and polished blue granite floor spans from wall to wall, meeting walls paneled in rich mahogany burlwood. The paneled walls support tapestries depicting historic deeds of Nitesong, RhyDin, and in recent times, several commissioned works commemorating the Harmony worlds, the home world of Alais' lifemate. At the far end from the door rises a stone fireplace of the same blue granite as the floor that commands immediate attention upon entering the Great Hall. Above the fireplace mantle are the Nitesong coat of arms and the Harmony sigils. Various weapons of history hang on either side of the dominating heraldic centerpiece. Some of the weapons are ceremonial in nature with elegant metal work and gems while others of significance belong to the bloody wars fought in ages past. Starkly efficient in purpose and deeds.

Mullioned windows span floor to ceiling overlooking the front yard as well as the back lawns. Overhead timbers crisscross the expanse. Royal blue moiré cloth dominates the few furnishings. This room is meant primarily for large gatherings and formal affairs. Flexibility of furnishings is crucial, and permanent seating maintains the blue and mahogany motif. Fine silk and wool rugs in intricate Moorish patterns of blue dot the floor, prohibiting echoing from making the vast room feel cold and uninviting. Along one wall stands a long table of burlwood, which doubles as a formal dining table when entertaining requires furnishing for formal sit-down dinners for large numbers of guests. Tall floor candelabra of wrought gold cast soft golden light after nightfall as hundreds of ivory beeswax candles are lit for such occasions.

Left of the entry are the kitchens and storage areas of the residence. A wine cellar with fine olde vintages, and a collection of single malt scotches. The kitchens are equipped with most of the conveniences of Uly's homeworld, which took some convincing for the Sidhe staff to learn to use. However, with time, they have adapted to the conveniences and seem to enjoy the modernization. There are still 2 large fireplaces in the kitchens, and there is always a fire within them for cooking something as the staff needs to eat even when Alais is not in residence. Counter tops and cabinets are furnished with all of the accoutrements of a large royal kitchen required to entertain important guests, nobility, and gentry in large numbers. The china and crystal are purely elven with intricate patterns on natural materials. They are nearly translucent ivory with muted shades of blue, green and salmon botanical designs. The crystal is very long stemmed in glittering leaded glass. Very thin and tall, the crystal refracts the candle light in rainbow glitter over the table. Silverware is available in two patterns. One of moonsilver in soft swirls, and one in ultra modern design for Harmony guests. The gold is never used any more as there have been no guests from Harmony since Uly's death.

Climbing the gracefully curving stairs to the 3rd level of the house above the great room leads one to the guest rooms over the Great Hall. Six suites of rooms are available. Each suite follows a predominant theme for honoured guests in an attempt to provide touches of other homes. Each is provided with a sitting area, fireplace, a balcony, a sleeping space, and a private bathing facility. Since Uly's death several years ago, Alais has begun restoration of this wing of the house. Workers come according to the staff scheduling and feedback is provided by the Sidhe Seneschal

1) The first suite on the left is decorated in Moorish style. Privacy partitions in finely wrought wood segregates the room into whatever size spaces are desired. Or can be used to permit the separation of males and females. Large pillows in brilliant jewel tones, and low ottomans covered in coordinating silk patterns provide the furnishings. The carpets are silk Aubusson in the rich textures and colors of the Ottoman Empire. No bar despoils the room in deference to the beliefs of several of Alais' friends. Overall the room has a desert oasis feeling. The walls are done in off-white stucco. There are painted friezes of desert themes in enough abstract form to not violate laws governing the rendering of images by humans. The effect of the friezes is one of a watercolor left in the rain and running together. The bathing area has a sunken oversize tub of intricate Byzantine-like tile. The fixtures are gold, and there are sheer silk draperies surrounding the tub. Lighting is accomplished with beaten brass lanterns and scented oils found in abundance throughout the suite. Living plants abound in all rooms with flowering jasmine growing all year long. The scent of jasmine and spices create a relaxing atmosphere to compliment the rooms and balcony.

2) The next suite is prepared in light pastels. This sitting room is very light and feminine, and is carpeted in soft ivory wool. The furniture is refined and light, following a tradition of elegance in pale peach moiré and light oak. Crystal vases abound with fresh flowers and airy greenery both on tables and in wall sconces as well. The walls are painted in candlelight ivory and adorned with colorful paintings of some of RhyDin's famous parks and botanical gardens. The bed is draped in ivory lace for privacy, and the linens are of finest flax linen in pale peach for color. The headboard is hand crafted in light oak with creatures of fantasy amid scroll-work and ivy. The ivory tiled floor is liberally littered with wool and silk rugs in shades of ivory, beige and peach. This suite has a balcony that overlooks a fountain and flower beds in pastel shades of peach, yellow, white shades. There are 3 topiary plantings on the balcony and stephanotis vines coil around the door frame scenting the whole area with the soft aroma of flowers all year long. In the bath, there is a raised and tiled soaking tub with scented bath oils arranged within easy reach. The towels are imported cotton of the softest weave. Colors here are tone on tone peach and salmon.

3) The last suite on the left side is done in a Highland flare. This set of rooms follows a rugged theme of grey stone fireplace, more massive furnishings, and accented in darker wood tones. The ambience is one of solidity and endurance. The doors are iron bound hinges and hardware, as are the wall sconces. There are hooks at the fireplace for hanging swords, or family tartans. Chairs are large and deep. Carpeting is heather and green laid over slate tiles, allowing the use of appropriate plaids for visitors. An ornate bar with stocked scotches is available, along with the heather ales, meads, and other assorted spirits. Paintings hung on the dark panels of the walls are mixed highland and lowland scenes throughout history, though by design, no clan or tartan is rendered visible. Large double doors open onto a stone balcony that has planters of heather and fern to add a splash of color to the slate greys of the floor.

4) On the opposite side of the hall, at the farthest end from the stairs is a suite appointed for Fey guests. This suite is suited to elven and fey alike. The appointments are completed in exquisite elven craftsmanship starting with all natural materials used to create the suite. The use of mithril, gold leaf, and crystal work is extremely liberally used throughout the rooms. The sardanapalian needs of the fey catered to in every detail from the intricate stone carvings in the fireplace to the small fountain that bubbles softly in the center of the sitting area. Live plants abound and form a living partition between the sitting space and the sleeping spaces. The partition contains scents from flowers only found in Sidhe lands, and provides the scents of home for many of Alais' visitors from Nitesong. The materials of the furnishings are imported silk damask and deep velvets in jewel tones. There are no manmade materials, only natural substances worked in the highly crafted ways of the Sidhe. Every piece of furniture is exquisitely crafted and each detail carrying the signature of art and beauty. The easily insulted fey guests will find no appointment lacking in this room. The balcony balustrade has been worked into the flowing, beautiful lines cherished by elven folk, and polished smooth alabaster mimics the color of the sacred Rouwan wood without actually cutting down Rouwan trees. Details right down to the "grain" one would expect to see in things crafted of wood have been carved into the alabaster. Illumination is provided by fairy light, which adds a warm glow to the suite of rooms and balcony. The bath is finished to appear to be a secluded hot spring, including the rich shades of aqua found in the depths of hotsprings. The grotto appearance is very lifelike, and includes birdsong with the bubbling splashes of the comfortably warm water.

5) The middle suite on the right side is prepared for other mages and sorcerers. The room is extensively warded and shielded for privacy and solitude. The floor is carpeted in deep blue ghax wool that is so luxurious that it invites guests to walk barefoot in the rooms. The walls are dark basalt ashlar blocks, polished to a satiny bronze sheen. The furnishings are a rich dark oak color with midnight blue silk covers. Wall sconces are mithril and gold leaf and will accommodate either candles or torches. There is a fireplace and workbench with a carved oaken tome stand provided. The mullioned windows and balcony doors overlook part of the grounds where a large fountain stands. The small balcony allows a sorcerer access to an uncovered starlit sky for any casting that requires such provisions. The balcony floor is made of the same bronze basalt, and is reasonably impermeable to spell components. The room may be additionally warded easily by the resident if they so choose. No other sorceries may intrude on the space. The walls have several magnificently carved deep oak bookshelves with reference materials at hand. Common spell components are lined up on the workbench, although exotic components need to be brought by the mage. A small bronze brazier sits near the fireplace. The bed is dark oak and the motif is dragon carved reminiscent of the entry gates and great hall doors. The bed is mattressed in Eider down. Deep blue silk comforter tops the soft down bed. There are no paintings hung on the walls, rather tapestries provide a warmer feel to the stone rooms. Mythical creatures and exploits of legend are the subject matter for the tapestries.

6) The next and final suite was under renovation to accommodate visitors from Uly's worlds. But, the renovations were halted when Uly passed beyond this realm into another. Already in place however are a small scale replicator/transmorgrifier, and a transponder for quick teleportive travel throughout the public spaces of the house, both bearing the Made In Harmony manufacturing stamp. This suite of rooms remains closed now, with no activity toward finishing it. The teleport landing sites in the rest of the house have gone un-used for several years, and there are no plans to reinstate their use.

The rooms over the kitchens and storage areas provide office spaces for Alais, formerly for Uly, the House Steward, and various House Staff. These are traditionally not visited by anyone not from the family or immediate staff.

Alais' office and lab overlook the grounds at the back of the House. The office is appointed with an ornately carved desk of rich mahogany inlaid with runes of mithril. The dragons of the desk do shift positions and "move" when not being watched. Beneath the desk is a deep pile carpet of midnight blue ghax wool that covers part of the greenish serpentine stone floor. Surrounding the desk on all sides, the walls are lined with bookshelves carved in the same dragons and celtic knot work. Where there are no bookshelves, the walls are made of light beige granite in a satin polished surface. A mahogany and royal blue moiré sofa faces a small ashlar fireplace done in polished blue granite. A low mahogany table sits in front of the sofa, with candelabra of mithril at each end. Several scrolls and parchments are scattered on the table, but have no visible writing on them. Upon the floor is a black tanzanite gate rune outlined in mithril. The gate rune is protected not only by the usual restraints of such a rune, but Alais has a Guardian from Riverbend lurking within the rune. While the "other" does not trouble Alais, those who have travelled with her oft comment on the "uncomfortable" effect the Guardian creates for them. Stepping through a narrow doorway, you may enter the lab. This is the heart and soul of most sorcerers. The room is completely built in stone.... a rich greenish serpentine cut in rough cut, allowing a natural cave like ambiance. Sounds from the rest of the house do not penetrate into this sanctuary. Lighting is accomplished using sorcery or fairy light depending on the need of the moment. Candles can also be brought in for illumination. The bench top shows several scars from experiments or chemical attacks. The walls are lined with glassware and assorted containers holding all manner of spell components. The proliferation of spell components has grown considerably since Alais finished her studies with the Annaran sorcerer Morrin. Some of which are better not studied too closely.

A tome stand about 5 feet high and carved from nearly black wood stands offset from the workbench. The stand depicts a dragon rampant entwined with a sorcerer and familiar. Upon the tome stand is Alais' spell book, guarded by a Tome Guardian. The Guardian remains transparent unless approached, where upon it takes any manner of appearances designed to dissuade the would-be guest. The Guardian is authorized to use deadly force if needed. The Guardian has seldom been pressed into action, but with the recent events in RhyDin, Alais keeps the Guardian where it is. And so, here the book remains, untouched, unless summoned by Alais herself.

A balcony just beyond a pair of mullioned doors gives access to the sky and gardens. Several free standing candelabra give the only evidence of a light source within the room. For those capable of "seeing", the room is heavily warded by Alais. This is the inner space belonging to the Sorceress, and it's peace is powerfully protected, and so is the security of her spell experimentation. Few are admitted to this place of sanctuary. There is a secret exit from the room, and that leads both to the roof as well as the basement of the house. Both of these exits are guarded by rather nasty familiars of Alais' calling.

The door to Ulysses' office is plainly labeled, "Do Not Enter". Here he had chosen to manifest the portal to the other-realms where his primary energies resided. Those versed in space-time-probability travel are wise enough not to meddle in another's manipulative mechanisms. Those inexperienced and excessively curious soon find themselves battling for their very existence against the all-absorbing power of being. Thus far Uly had managed to save the imprudent from themselves, but disclaimed any responsibility for future mishaps.... having added the universal symbol of a skull below the door label. Alais has not changed anything in Uly's office, and at this time, she cannot see any reason to make changes. She knows Uly is not returning, the starfire ring is now cold and black, it's brilliant starfire nothing more than a faint glimmer. There is no essence to return. But, the size of the house means there is no need to delve into this place as long as the staff continues to respect the warnings her lifemate had posted at the entrance to his personal space.

Following the curving stairs to the entire 4th floor gains you access to the Sorceress' familial residence. Here, changes have been made in abundance since Ulysses death. Above the great hall is the family living area. A large, well-lit sitting room, which is carpeted in deep, soft, ivory wool is the first room entered beyond the privacy of the dragon doors. Here is where intimate friends and guests are entertained. The dragon doors are warm medium oak, and mullioned windows line 2 sides of the room, with life-size statues of famous elves and others between each window carved from various marbles. At the far end of the room, a walk in fireplace of pale salmon cut rhodochrosite permits a crackling fire to cast warmth and light across the room. Facing the fireplace are 2 matching sofas of deep forest green velvet. Several chairs dot the space near the fireplace, and are of forest green, rose, peach and gold silk brocade. Low tables with golden candelabra fill in where needed. A small series of book shelves sport leisure reading selections varying from biography to history to fiction to technology. The ceiling soars to a vaulted 16' with carved wooden rafters supporting a translucent muscovite roof overhead. In one corner near the original entry point, a musicians' nook sits. A harpsichord, music stands, and 3 chairs sit in preparedness for a small ensemble of chamber music. A stone balcony beyond mullioned doors permits the family access to a table and chairs for dining out of doors beneath a trellised and wisteria draped roof.

The master suite is behind a set of deeply carved doors above the offices and lab. Stepping through, the floor is carpeted in deep forest green plush ghax wool. The walls are paneled in burl wood trimmed with bronze fittings. The ceiling is 16' up, and supports the muscovite roof tiles with large carved timbers. Mullioned doors open onto a private balcony overlooking the gardens and the great fountain. A fireplace of brilliant green dioptase stands against the farthest wall. Above the fireplace are portraits of Alais' dogs.

The bedroom furniture is predominantly deep forest green and peach with gold trim and highlights. An obsidian bath is submerged in the floor near the fireplace. Moveable screens of peach moiré stand partially surrounding the obsidian spa. There are 5 large Grecian urns in stands filled with fresh genestra, gingers, and pincushion protea amid eucalyptus and tree ferns. The room is comfortably appointed with 3 overstuffed chairs of deep salmon moire, several golden floor candelabras and 2 table top candelabra. The scent of genestra with a hint of gardenia and fir accents the ambiance of the room. All the candles are a rich ivory pillar rather than simple tapers. Alais' suite has many personal items scattered around it that would tell a great deal about the sorceress. Her dogs, 3 Borzoi have free run of this floor. The suite is comfortably appointed, and clearly lived in, though the time spent in RhyDin has taken somewhat of a decline. The influence of Alais' Lifemate Uly remains to be felt around I'Taurn, but fades with each pasing year.

There are several smaller rooms adjoining the master suite. In times past, they served as nursery and the children's rooms. Alais has had them closed for her tenure in I' Taurn House.

[Alais d Nitesong]

Alais d’ Arma Graham d’ Nitesong Sidhe

Alais is elven and comes from a very old family that has been rooted in Nitesong as the reigning family for over 2300 years. Alais is 465 Rhydinian years of age. At this time, Alais is the heir to the Nitesong provinces, but she has turned over the daily requirements to her twins. These twins are the only children Alais has, and her Lifemate has been lost years ago. She still wears the starfire and infinity ring from their bonding. The glow is faint, but still present from Ulysses’ home world, which means Harmony exists, but not the lifeforce of her Lifemate.

As a widow, Alais sought the training and counsel of the Archmage Morrin from Annara. Morrin had left his home of Annara and settled in Riverbend. He very reluctantly took Alais in, and taught her many of his secrets, dark though they were. Alais’ innate skills were in summoning, but after spending decades in study with Archmage Morrin, she developed and accommodated the neccessary Necromantic arts. Her time in Riverbend forever added a shadow to Alais. Much of Alais’ spell casting is done in Annaran, and carries the dark taint of necromancy. Alais is not evil, but her skills enable her to make use of very dark sorcery. It is fairly infrequently that you will hear spell casting in Elven from her. Now, with Morrin departed from Riverbend, Alais has become mistress over the Annaran Archmage’s home. It is to Riverbend she retreats when she requires time away from the living. Here, only ghosts and shadows linger as the living inhabitants left when Morrin went home to Annara. But the cold grey stone harbors others to protect the structure.

Alais keeps a house in RhyDin proper. It is called I’ Taurn, and was part of the Nitesong legacy. It is a large, 4 story home of white albite ashlar that has been modified heavily when Ulysses was alive and the two were in residence together. Now, the house is nearly empty, with only minimal staff to assure privacy and no vandalism to the property. When Alais is in RhyDin, she will be found here, or in the Arena. The house is capable of entertaining on a large scale, but is seldom called upon for those functions by the widowed sorceress. She does however spend hours walking the grounds of I’ Taurn House amid the gardens and trees. A shadow moving among the vegetation.

Alais duels with the family sword, named Morvinyon. The blade had been shattered from a battle long before Alais’ birth, and the shards kept for re-forging when the right talent was found. Alais found Morrin’s dwarven companion to be the right entity, but they had to find a missing shard. The quest for the missing shard from Morvinyon introduced Alais to the demoness Shakira, and thus began a long friendship with Xenograg and Amaltea. She also carries a rouwan wood staff, and an enchanted knife of moonsilver hidden on her person.

[Alais d Nitesong]

They had spoken at length about the pending trip to the Temple, but Alais still didn't like their options.

"Ah cannae gae, 't ist too obvious at this point.... bu' Alia mayst...."


In the quiet of her laboratory, Alais sent the missive off to Nitesong. Off to the daughter she never involved in the events of RhyDin.

Thereafter, a missive was penned for Queen Teleperien

"Majesty,
I am sending my daughter to join you these next days. Please accept her into your household as my daughter, and the trust you would place in me, also feel free to place in her.

Lady Alais d' Arma Graham d' Nitesong Sidhe"

The parchment coiled up and drifted into the flames of the fireplace, the ashes to seek out the Queen and reform there.

[QueenTeleperien]

"Lady.. a missive appears on the grate!" Came the astonished cry of Contance. Eyebrows lifted Teleperien retreives the parchment, it shows no sign of burn. Unrolling the parchment she immediatly scans it to discover the author.

Alais! Returning to the top of the missive..

Majesty,
I am sending my daughter to join you these next days. Please accept her into your household as my daughter, and the trust you would place in me, also feel free to place in her.

Lady Alais d' Arma Graham d' Nitesong Sidhe"

Quickly Tele takes a sheet of parchment of her own. Dipping the pen into the inkwell she replies;

"Lady Alais;

We would be pleased to allow your daughter to stay as long as is needed. We will expect her.

Teleperien"

Rolling the parchment she seals it and steps to the window. As if in anticipation a falcon lands on the sill. Tying the missive to it's leg.. she whispers instructions. The falcon soars into the air.. to disappear and reappear at the window of Lady Alais d' Arma Graham d' Nitesong Sidhe's bed chamber.

[Alais d Nitesong]

::The falcon perches upon the stone window ledge and taps it's beak insistently upon the mullioned windows of the 4th floor private apartment. The missive tied and clutched within it's recurved talons.::

::There are no lights on in the room, but the shadowy figure responds to the insistent summons of the beautiful bird of prey.::

::The window opens to admit the bird close enough to deposit the parchment and a shadowy hand accepts the missive. Soft elven words, hesitantly spoken are issued to the bird, with thanks for the speedy delivery.::

(s) thank ye an' fly ye safely back tae yer mistress. Ah haff nae r'turn parchment fer ye this night.....

::The falcon takes graceful flight from the stone window sill as the mullioned window closes once more.::

::Alais reads the penned missive from the Queen before sending her Majesty the name of the young elf about to join her retinue....::

::Quill in hand, Alais writes 6 words and sends the missive into the flames once more....::

Alia Anor, mine daughter yer Majesty

[Alais d Nitesong]

::Alais sat down in the lab beside the fireplace with a parchment and quill in hand, pondering how best to explain to Alia Anor what she needed from her when even Alais was not certain. The events in the Arena had convinced her that something was very wrong with this "temple" that according to the young woman had a very large painting of Xenograg as the "Liberator". The unease was not a tangible thing, but she could not ignor the prickle of apprehension that ran down her spine when she thought about that very odd discussion.::

(s) well Alia, Ah haff nae specifics wi' th' exception o' mine intuition 'pon this one.... ::and with that she penned the request that her daughter come to RhyDin with all haste and go directly to Queen Teleperien. Alia was not to come to I' Taurn, on the outside chance that someone watched and would tie Alia to Alais, who was known to be a friend of Xenograg and the Queen.::

::soft Annaran words, not Elven, sent the parchment into the flames to disintegrate, and fly to Nitesong where she hoped her daughter would heed the request with due haste.::

[Alia Anor Graham]

::from a hotel in RhyDin City on the day after arriving::

Queen Teleperien,
I have travelled as quickly as possible to arrive in RhyDin. Last evening, I met a member of the Temple of Light, and had the opportunity to speak briefly with her. We seem to have formed a friendship, and I have accepted her offer to visit the Temple, which I did today for a very short trip. While my friend was not in residence, I spoke with another member of the Temple. This is a very friendly group of two that I have spoken with, and I will return to the Temple on the morrow, hopefully to meet up with Seraphina for a longer introduction to the Temple, and perhaps the opportunity to meet others.

The oddest thing happened though when I was talking to Seraphina in the Duel of Fists. I am afraid I do not understand the details, but it certainly upset Cory that the Temple might be aligned with the former overlady Shakira. The fact that I knew about Shakira seemed to strike Cory as "odd", though I know not why he would think I should not know about some of the events here. I did not tell him that my mother has filled me in on some of the details, slim as they are.
I look forward to meeting you in person Your Majesty. I trust that I will fulfill the needs of our folk.

With Respect and Service,

Alia Anor Graham

::the young sorceress seals the missive and summons an owl to carry the parchment directly to Queen Teleperien::

::as the owl flies into the darkness, Alia makes plans to move from the hotel to Eldicor when the timing suits the Queen::

[Alia Anor Graham]

::Alia Anor spent the day walking the streets of RhyDin using the directions on the back of the card Seraphina had given her. After visiting the Temple of Divine Light, she wandered around trying to get some familiarity with the lay out of the city and learning where the major landmarks were.::

::She found the Dojo belonging to General Xenograg, and the Red Dragon Inn, and of course the dueling areas of town. Then she wandered down to the harbor, and spent several hours in the bustling port. The road leading away from the port, but still running along the waterfront was beautiful.::

[Alais d Nitesong]

Alais had gone to the dueling forums, hoping to spend time getting her reflexes back in shape, catching up on dueling techniques, which she had not had to use in a long time.

The dueling had not especially gone well. She'd lost timing and intuition it seemed, but the exercise was good, and she was becoming familiar with the regular faces around the Arena.

She'd met also an assassin that could dance, and dance well. There had been no dancing since Ulysses' death, and the thrill of dancing with a skilled partner felt wonderful. Their first dance had been a Tango, with all of the romance and passion that embody a well danced Tango. Their second dance, a waltz, had seemed a bit out of place in the environs of the dueling, but graceful moves under exquisit control are beneficial whether one is dancing or dueling. Alais loved it.

During the course of both dances however, the robed woman who had come to their table the night they heard about Xenograg being called the Great Liberator at the Temple of Divine Light had come through the doors both nights. She almost never spoke, and did not stay long, but none the less she was there. Alais did not point out the woman to her dance partner, but it troubled her that the woman continued to frequent the Arena, as though seeking once more to find Xenograg. That troubled Alais. There was something very wrong about that temple, but she had not yet been able to discover what it was.

Sylus and Alais had watched some of the duels after finishing their waltz, well, after having it interupted when Cory cut in for a duel Alais had promised him the day before. Cory's distraction was a welcome one from the robed woman's presence. And shown Alais yet again that she was in dire need of practice. She'd grown slow with a blade having spent so much time in Riverbend.

Riverbend. Sylus had queried her about Riverbend. That direction of discussion had had the necromancy rising swiftly through her fingers and hands, but Sylus had stunned her with his own experiences in the beyond. They had kindred experiences it seemed, and the warmth of his hand sent the necromancy back into safely silent mode. His questions about some of the necromancer's spell books initially raised concern, but she agreed to take him to I' Taurn, where most of the rare works had been moved for protection. They had departed the Arena, and Alais took Sylus through the gate rune into her laboratory and library. If anything could find out if Sylus was dangerous to her or not, it would be "the other" waiting inside the rune when they passed.

[Sylus Kurgen]

::He moved silently through the halls of I'Taurn, following his gracious tour guide, Lady Alais. He asks his questions about various rooms they travel through and some of the interesting items found therein. He could feel the sorceries of the ancient home. The necromancy of the place filling his senses like a fine wine. They had come across some of the beings she had referred to as the "Others". He could feel the strength in them, the power, and their weaknesses. Letting the taint of I'Taurn fill him, he adjusted his body to the flow of the place, becoming one with it. In the same instant he smothered his own power, making it almost nonexistant. He gave off the feeling that he belonged in I'Taurn, that he has always been there::

[Alais d Nitesong]

Bringing Sylus through the gate rune had proven to be non-eventful, which meant Alais felt comfortable enough to show Sylus some of the more rare works from Morrin's writings--comfortable, but not entirely confident. Three of the most damning works remained locked away. Those might never see the light of day again.

The library covered many of the sorcerous disciplines, from basic summoning to advanced transformations. It even included majic from Harmony, which was rare for those worlds. But, it was the sections on Necromancy that attracted Sylus most.

The wards of the library had initially hummed at the presence of another sorcerer, but quieted as he remained. That was unusual. Alais sat before the fireplace and penned a missive while Sylus perused the books available.

Xenograg and Amaltea,
My daughter has arrived and awaits the Queen's pleasure to enter Eldicor. I have heard she's been to the Temple, and speaks highly of it. I WORRY! She is a good and loyal lass, but if she is tempted, she may become an unwitting danger. The Queen should know.
Alais wathu-Darelir


With soft Annaran words, the parchment disappear into the fire to disintegrate and seek out Xeno and Amal. Reforming within their hearth.

[Alais d Nitesong]

The hours passed as Sylus studied the books, and dawn approached. It was time to show him to a room. Alais led Sylus through the house, giving him a quick overview of the layout, and warning him against the third floor office areas, incase he should go wandering during the coming daylight.

They spent some time in the comfort of the 4th floor apartments, where the dogs had mixed reactions to his presence. The young female Borzoi practically launched herself into his arms with her enthusiastic greeting, but the big male stood beside Alais and growled low. The dichotomy was not lost on Alais. Ranie was young and energetic. Myr was her nearly constant companion. Tarabas never got up to greet anyone, and he made no exception this time.

Mixed messages from the wards, and the dogs.

Time would tell.

[Alais d Nitesong]

Alais sat alone in the library, staring into the crackling flames. A glass of liquid fire held loosely in one hand. She was motionless, and truth be told, more than a trifle maudlin this night. She'd brought someone into I' Taurn for the first time since Ulysses death. And tonight that troubled her greatly. Setting the delicate snifter down upon the mahogany table before her, she continued brooding.

The abrupt "POP" and the sound of shattered crystal reverberated through the granite walled room. Amber liquid dripped onto the table as the spider web of broken crystal gave way to gravity and disintegrated into tiny pieces all over the table top.

She rose with determination etching her features and left the sanctuary of her library for the dark halls and a room she had not visited in many years. Ulysses office.

Alais stopped before the closed door. Hesitation holding her poised between entry and departure. It was silly really. There was nothing in that office for her, and no real reason to enter. But still....

Reaching out, she lightly rested her hand on the touch pad, and the door slid open soundlessly before her. The room was bathed only in moonlight filtering through the glass. She stepped inside, and the door slid closed again in silence.

Dust had settled over everything in the office. No one entered here. Ever. She stood utterly still and breathed in deeply. The scent of Uly's cologne lingered, and brought glittering tears to her eyes, that clung to sable lashes but did not fall. She'd never cried. Not once since his death. She would not cry now. Instead, Alais began to wander the room, her finger tips touching now and then some of the devices and objects that had belonged to Uly. But they brought no solace.

In disgust with herself, she spun around and left the darkened office that held the only reminders of her lifemate that had not seen change since his passing. She closed the door to the office vowing to have the Seneschal deactivate the touch pad so that no one would ever gain access again.

Alais headed for her apartments, and was greeted by the dogs, ever happy to see her. The restlessness inside kept her in motion around the rooms before deciding that a soak in the tub would be welcome. She filled the obsidian bath with hot water and ginger scented oil, and then moved the peach screens to allow her an unobstructed view of the night sky overhead. She lit no candles, but sank slowly into the hot, scented water. Her hair hanging beyond the lip of the obsidian bath, pooling to the floor behind her. The obsidian of the bath and the silver of her hair mirroring the midnight sky and stars overhead. The water came to her chin, and she rested her head back against the tub, letting the heat of the water permeate into her body. She closed her eyes.

Time ceased.

" 'Lais, 's alright "

" 's alright 'Lais"


She smiled hearing a familiar voice, and the sensation of being wrapped in the cocoon that had been Uly's arms was comforting. But, it was WRONG! She sat up abruptly, sending water flying in all directions as her eyes snapped open.

The room was still dark, and no one was in the room with her but the dogs. The voice came again, the same words. Then silence. Overhead, at that moment, the most beautiful meteor shower Alais had ever seen streaked across the midnight sky, and then the sensation of Uly's arm was gone, and the water was abruptly ice cold.

The only person who ever called her 'Lais was Uly, but he'd been dead, his essence scattered among the Harmony stars years ago. There had been no ghost, or "other", she would have recognized those immediately. Alais shivered, but not from the chill of her now icy cold bath.

[Sylus Kurgen]

He sat for hours upon end, reading all the books on necromantic sorcery that could be found in the extensive library of I'Taurn. He was just beginning to thumb through an excetpionally large tome when the sound of shattering crystal came to his ever sharp ears..... from the floor above. Moving cautiously through the halls, he kept to the shadows, letting his cloak distort his outline. As he was coming around a corner, he saw Alais emerge from her former mentors office....a room he was forbidden to enter. He watched her return to her 4th floor appartments before opening the door to the office...he didn't enter since he gave her his word that he would not. He stood in the doorway and let his eyes shift to the infrared spectrum. His amber eyes taking on the telltale red glow of heat-vision. As his gaze swept the room he saw where she had walked the room and the things she had touched. Stepping back from the doorway, he returned things to the way they should be, before heading towards Alais appartments. As he came to the entrance way to her private chambers he found the protective wards in place. With a knowing nod, he stepped into a nearby shadow. Traveling the pathways of darkness he found his way to the inside of her quarters and found everything as it should be. He heard the splash of water from the adjoining room...Alais was bathing.....he knew it was high time to leave. He was preparing to do just that when a wave of cold hit him. It left as fast as it had come, but he sensed the mind whitin it. With a sigh and a slight smirk he returned to the pathways of darkness and resumed his studying in the library.