Kairee strides down the stairs of the Inn; the hem of her short fitted dress swaying with each step; her mind pre-occupied with the upcoming trip. Her emerald eyes sweep the common room as she descends.

A dazzling smile for Tyranacus as he ?yoohooes? her from his perch in the rafters. ?Behaving yourself, Ty-Babes?? she asks

?Yes I am.? Tyranacus smiles, ?For now, that is... I have plans for later...?

?I count on it, Ty.? She teases back.

Stepping from the stairs with intent to head to the bar; Kairee?s attention is caught by the feel of His magic and her eyes turn to where she sense He will appear. Under normal circumstances, light and shadow move silently, at the mercy of the sun and stars... but in the far reaches of the Multiverse, where entire lonely worlds grind through their orbits unseen, things are more ancient and speak in their own tongue. It is an eldritch sort of shadow, then, from somewhere far away, that groans its way from the wall and behind the closet door, pooling and stretching out and slowly rising, until it appears to be stepping up... up until the moment that a man, or something very like a man, steps out of it. The Leymaster runs one hand over his bare scalp, crimson eyes searching the room, robes caught in the ancient air falling still again.

She cannot help a smile teasing upon his appearance.

Braxeus raises an eyebrow at Kairee?s teasing smile, pinching one of his own billowing sleeves smiling at her and making his way over to her. Kairee shifts to change her intended course to meet Braxeus half way; a hand out to him::

His hand, covered in rapidly fading tattoos, many of similar design fading from his face as well, meets hers. Their hands enfolding warmly "Good afternoon, lover..." Kairee can feel his power still winding down. He was up to something recently.

Kairee reaches up to his cheek, caressing as the tattoos and markings dance away:: Afternoon.? She smiles kissing his lips gently, "Have you come to see me off?"

Giving Kairee?s lower lip a gentle bite. "And to make a request." Braxeus pulling away gently and looks down at her. What is that look in his eyes? Might it be concern? Hunger? Excitement? Kairee ponders the possibilities as she lightly licks her lower lip

"Do you want a souvenir?" she teases her hand that caressed his cheek now trailing lightly over his shoulder to his chest as she peers deeply into his eyes.

Braxeus tilts of his head, not answering her tease, "To accompany you in secret, or perhaps arrive there my own way. Believe it or not, I can blend in." The crimson eyes only flicker to her finger on his chest for a moment.

Kairee arches a prefect brow, "Are you not too busy?" Her fingers toy with his robes, "You've been engrossed in your other hobbies lately." She emphasizes her words with a little tug on his robes.

"Time can be made." He touches her elbow lightly.

Kairee softly sigh as she considers; eyes dropping as she considered his request.

His gaze leave Kairee for a moment to regard the half-elf Lydia, taking note of her aura and her ears. Only half a moment, his eyes narrow, and they return to his lover curiously not expecting this delay.

Emerald eyes turn back up to him, that mischievous gleam shining with in: "I can deny you nothing....." Kairee offers Braxeus a teasing wink:: "Of course you can come with me but how do you plan to stay incognito? And more importantly, how do you plan to sneak into my chambers each night?"

"That is not the purpose of my visit. I may arrive earlier or later than you, and the same for my departure."

Kairee: rolls her eyes, "Sometimes you are too serious."

Braxeus tilts his head.~ "Serious enough, I think.? He chides her gently, ?A cloak, the proper amount of traveler's dirt, and a few wares to sell will render me hardly worth noticing."

"True enough. You will be able to get the feel for the people and the under economy. Such information will be invaluable.."

"I hear rumors that Appleburg is rife with the occult for such a quaintly named kingdom."

Kairee: adjusts his robes a bit, playing with the fold,: "Hmmmm?yes....I have learned that the world was very active magically once but the magic has.?waned.? There are those that hope to revitalize it and others who hope to banish it for good. I plan to set my young scholar to their archives as soon as possible.? His robes adjusted to her liking, ?It will be a worthless rock if the Ley Lines dry up there. I suspect we will have to monitor how much power we use while there. It will not be quick to recharge? her voice drops to a more intimate level as she looks back up into his crimson eyes:: "Will you take control of their cults as I secure their kingdom?

?The cults of Greyvale will dance to my tune...? Braxeus responds in an equally lowered voice, ?Or they will be trampled underfoot.?

A sudden smile erupts on Kairee?s fair face, "I expect no less." She always did have a thing for strongly confident men and thrills at their bold plans.

Braxeus chuckles darkly with her approving smile.

"Will you leave with me? Icer will cross worlds with me and then go about the task you set before her. I will tell her how to return."

"I will, but I will take a different road into the kingdom itself."

?Once we cross over, it will be four days by carriage to reach the capital. Do you bring your apprentice?"

?She will be of great use."

Kairee nods but makes no further mention of his apprentice, "Have you given thought to how we should communicate while we are there?"

"If all else fails, I can reach you through blood-magic. It will be more complicated and time-consuming, but I can do it if necessary."

"We *could* mind link. It has the benefit of not being magic but it requires that we have the physical wherewithal to be focused mentally."

?We'll decide that on the way."

Kairee smiled. "And while we travel will you tell me how much you will miss me? How each day and night will be agony for you?"

"But of course..." Braxeus smiles and chuckles softly as he slides a finger along her chin.

"I adore the way you adore me." Releasing her emotions so that he feels the sensation of her body molding to his in a sensual hug only to follow it up by stepping into his space and giving Braxeus a FULL BODY HUG. ?You're still cute even in robes....", voice soft as she whispers in his ear, "But they do make me want to rip them off you."

Her psionic affections are met with his own as he tickles her up along her thighs and back as Braxeus Enfolds her in his arms, giving her a kiss. "Let me know when you are ready to leave."

Kairee softly purr into that kiss:: "I will call. Brian is wrangling the horses and the carts. Bernie is fetching his carriage. We are all ready and packed."

"...I'll see you tonight." ~Chuckling quietly as his finger traces her throat delicately, as he slips away from her.

On his way back to the door, he melts back into the shadows

A telekinetic pinch of Braxeus? bottom as she watches her lover disappear through his shadows.


__

At the appointed time and how, Kairee exits the Red Dragon Inn, Standing on the porch she peers down the cobblestone street and smiles at the sight of the approaching assembly. Banners of a red dragon on a black field flutter. The coach looking stately at this distance; Kairee?s badge, two gold dragons tails entwined and heads bowed so their necks crossed, forming a heart like shape, breathing flame into the space between them glitter on the black doors. Before the coach, Brian rides his stead, four of her other men-at-arms behind him two by two; additional four behind the coach. All brilliant in their livery.

Trailing behind the parade that is Kaiee?s retinue are the two supply wagons laden for their journey.

A wave to Icer as the dragon swoops and settles into a lazy circling pattern waiting for the land based party.

"Alright, gentlemen!! The Lady wishes to be off in a timely manner and I shall not have her disappointed, understand!?"

Brian began barking orders and directing the carts and horses, and began to run over last minute preparations. The 'talk' with Renna earlier freshly put aside, as he went over things and nodded to one of Kairee's 'boys', then directing him to a station just behind the coach with further instruction. He shook his head a moment, as they went over detail and detail once more. Soon they were readying themselves, as Brian caught sight of the 'Empress'.

A loving smile appeared, as Brian adjusted his surcoat once more and made his way towards his sister, Jewell. The self proclaimed 'Empress', and so much more in his eyes. Jewell grinned to him as she paused at the bottom of the steps to the Inn's porch.

"Heyas, beautiful."

"Getting ready to set out?"

"Shortly yes, lots to do and what not. It seems Icer is joining us as well and I was promoted.. Still, we will be back soon enough. You just stay outta trouble." shaking his head, as he said the promoted part, mainly due to the 'boys' as Brian hardly was a leader of any kind, well not in his eyes.

"Of course, what trouble could I possibly get in? I'm glad Icer is going with you, though." said while she was rocking on her heels a moment.

Brian smiled, as he closed the distance between his sister and himself.

"You are?"

"Well..she'll look after you, right? I mean..when she's not biting you and all."

Almost as if on cue, Icer emerged from the Inn and took to the sky, a smile offered to Jewell, as the majestic dragoness took towards a nearby forest for some pre-journey meal time. But, then turned around and hovered overheard a bit.

"Hi Icer!"

"I promise I won't bite him, Empress.." said the dragoness with quite the grin.

"She and I will look out for eachother, I promise. So gimme one last hug, sweetheart."

"Of course!" she practically threw herself at him, hugging him tightly. "Be safe."her voice soft as she spoke.

Brian laughed, and wrapped his arms about Jewell tightly and offered a warm hug to his sister. His voice also softened, as he spoke to her.

"No worries, sister of mine."

Settling Jewell down once more, Brian smiled and looked to her once more. "Jewell?"

Jewell grinned to him and responded. "You okay? You're looking a bit stressed.."

Clop. Clop. Clop.

The sound of horse hooves sounded against the cobblestones. The creak of wagon wheels joined the melody as the aging Roan pulled the laden cart following the lead of the majestic black steed Braxeus rode.

Sylvie held the reigns, encouraging the Roan to keep pace. Her long chestnut brown hair pulled back into a braid and the dulled rusty brown cloak covering her simple peasants dress. Her brown eyes turn toward Kairee. A simple nod in deference was offered to her Master?s Mistress but her gaze did not linger.

As they progressed, her gaze drifted over The Lady?s Sword. This time her cryptic gaze did linger.

The dragon reappeared from the forest having had her fill, and now was back to circling lazily overhead.

Spotting the dark figure on the dark horse, she tilted her head a moment, then grinned and nodded, her gaze then drifting over the wagons and men as well.

A nod to Brian as well, she'd wait patiently.

The hooded figure gives the dragon the slightest of nod. She is here at his request. Long has he had an appreciation for these majestic creatures... He folds his arms in the sleeves of his cloak as a chilly wind races down from the mountains between the buildings of Rhy'Din. An omen for the leymaster... for while the kingdom is called Appleburg, renowned for its plentiful orchards, to him, the land is as barren as the desert, desolate and fruitless. It is not the journey there that worries him, but when he finally arrives.

Kairee's Sword is acknowledged with a brief look, though none is given to the rider in the cart who seems so able to grab his attention. He will make a fine bodyguard for this trip, is the sorcerer's opinion - Braxeus does not even pretend that Kairee will not be needing one.

And in the back of his swirling thoughts... a kingdom... a proper throne... something he has not been near to in many years...

While many in the caravan of the Queen-to-be were wowed by the parting fogs and the magical change in landscape, Braxeus' eyes were on the one who addresses him as Lord, the one who watched Brian so curiously earlier. His countenance is ever harsh when it is cast upon the first of his new servants in Rhy'Din, difficult to read what his judgment of Sylvie is. When they arrive, he trots his black horse in a slow, arrogant arc once in front of her cart, then back, then once more... three slow arcs, crimson eyes upon her the entire time. It is a silent and symbolic warning to Sylvie, and she knows better than to call it into question. They all have important business in this kingdom, Brian included... and Braxeus knows Brian's duties will be relevant to a future Queen whom Sylvie does not care much for.

Kairee... we are upon Greyvale and nearly upon Appleburg. We will be encountering others soon... Sylvie and I will break off from the caravan now. ...Be careful, lover. Something is awry with the magic in this place.

Indeed, as the Leymaster "spoke" to Kairee, his eyes were on the weathered rock faces... reading what was once carved into them long ago through his arcane sense, but with more difficulty than he ought to. His lower lip drew up, mouth tightening... he gave his reins a shake and moved on, down a dirty trail off the main road, closely followed by Sylvie's cart.

Once more, Brian gauged the gathering from atop his mount. Blue eyes carefully took into account a multitude of things, as he circled a moment and once more made sure all was ready at a moment's notice for the Lady's departure.

It was then he noticed the young dwarf's arrival, and quietly catalogued him and made further note to inquire about him at a later time. This of course would be in addition to the young lady who had also caught his attentions as well. Noting Kairee's conversation with 'Master Thorfin', Brian nodded to the other guardsmen and once more resumed his close proximity to Kairee's coach. Then her words rang aloud.

“We leave now.”

Brian raised his hand, and set it into a circular motion as he looked to the guardsmen to the front and rear, and immediately they set into action and literally came to life in attention.

"Make ready!"

Watching closely as Kairee made her way into the coach, he dropped to the rear of the procession a moment and made sure all were on the same page, and quicky made his way back to the coach in time to see her wave, as he understood it was now time to truly depart.

"Move it out!"

Brian cried out, and complied as the caravan came to life once more, and began it's way through Rhy'din Towne. Remaining as close as he could to Kairee's coach, Brian occasionally had to break away to move ahead to the head and assist in the parting of the masses, so to speak. Most complied, save a pair of gnomes whom were made examples of quickly enough, by Bri and one of the 'boys'. Straightening his surcoat once more, he rejoined Kai's coach as they set upon the open road.

Once upon the open road, Brian dropped back a bit and had some words with two more of the 'boys', and with their understanding, spurred his horse ahead and took off ahead of the caravan a bit. He hated to admit it, but he as rather excited and just wanted to open up a bit, and this was the perfect excuse for a moment or three. All that was left was a cloud of dust, as the 'Sword' galloped ahead.

He stopped about a mile ahead and commited to scouting a bit, as he hated surprises and truth be told had far too many as of late. So he widened the perimeter a bit, and encountered very little save a small camp of Romany, a pair of boars and some of the local militia that was headed back into town. Once that was accomplished, he waited a bit and simply looked to the sky letting the fresh breeze take hold a moment, as he closed his eyes. And just as quickly they opened, and he took off back to the caravan to rejoin the Lady once more.

The dragon had remained further toward the rear of the caravan, just icase something or someone should approach, upon hearing Kairee, she pushed all thoughts aside, until she also made it through, her blue eyed gaze drifting over the landscape.

Still she brought up the rear, keeping a wary eye out for anything that could prove dangerous for the group.

To Kairee, Braxeus? displeasure was palpable and clearly directed toward his traveling companion. Whatever offense, minor or not, Sylvie committed, Kairee knew Braxeus would handle it swiftly and severely. The witch could not be trusted, binding oath or not. It will be some time, if at all, before either of them would put any faith in Slyvie considering her trespass against them. Forgiveness was not entertained.

Judging the event to be meaningless to her current purpose, Kairee quickly dismissed Sylvie?s emotional turmoil and resentment and instead refocused on other more important things.

It was the mountain pass they had emerged from that held her attention or more properly the rock face of that natural crevice. Esoteric patterns, hewn into the flanking sides, weathered, and worn as countless centuries passed, still throbbed with what little arcane power the carved incantation could draw. Many of the sigils were misshapen from the wear of time; Kairee considered it miraculous that the gate, for there can be no doubt that is its purpose, still functions. The signs, notated in unknown arcane symbols, could not be immediately translated but they way they shaped power, their intention could not be mistaken by anyone with a deep knowledge of Dimensionalism or Planarism. Glancing around the surrounding area, Kairee could spy the tendrils of power eked from the nearest Ley Lines, weak and trickling yet still fueling the spell carved in stone.

~Kairee... we are upon Greyvale and nearly upon Appleburg. We will be encountering others soon... Sylvie and I will break off from the caravan now. ...Be careful, lover. Something is awry with the magic in this place.~

The touch of his mind to hers, thoughts direct and to the point yet layered with various emotions warmed Kairee. Braxeus could not conceal his ambitions nor did he try with her but she could read beyond his cold and calculating aspirations. He had opened himself fully to her and she could read the layers of entwined and sometimes conflicting emotion; the depths of which she was unsure he was even aware. Tempering his insatiable desire for power and combined with his eagerness for the adventure that lay before them she also felt his honest care and concern for her as their paths will take them down different roads temporarily. It was this aspect that he never revealed to others, rarely acknowledged himself, and only shared with her, that she treasured most.

~Awry is a good word for it. The magic is more than foreign, it is spindly and feeble.~ Her disappointment in the ambient levels of arcane power could not be missed. ~Travel well, Beloved, I will see you back in Rhydin when we agreed.~ Kairee trusted Braxeus? abilities to fend for himself as much as he trusted her own. There was no need to assure him that she would respond should he call nor seek assurance that he would come to her should she have need. A lingering mental kiss accompanied Braxeus as he made his progress even as Kairee called Dafydd to her side.

Blond hair flowing, blue eyes bright, the young bard and warrior broke from his companions at the Lady?s mental command. Swinging from his saddle the man took to bended knee with head bent before Kairee.

?Dafydd,? she waved him up, ?Have you seen the likes of this before??

Bright blue eyes considered the carvings as he rose to stand beside Kairee, ?Nay, m?Lady.?.he responded after a moment?s consideration.

?You will remember it.? The simple statement was a command; Kairee was in his mind, ensuring the image was accurately etched in his memory, ?Once we are in Appleburg, I will gain you access to Ia?an?s library and you will find for me everything you can about these and similar signs.?

With a bow and verbal affirmation of his instructions, Dafydd withdrew and returned to his mount. He met Brian?s eyes for a moment but did not share the nature of his interaction with Kairee before riding back to the others.

~Icer. ~ Kairee mentally called to the dragon lazily circling over head, ~this is from where you will return to Rhydin, It works as I told you it will. Be strong of Will and mind and you should cross back with no issue.~ feeling Icer?s uncertainty, Kairee adds, ~If you come down, I will give you a charm that will guide you.~
The flap of Icer?s great wings stirred up the dirt and dust of the road as the Dragoness landed near the mage. ?What sort of token, Kairee?? she rumbled in curiosity.

?Temporary, babes. Once active, it will guide you across the divide.? Turning to the Ice Dragon, Kairee smiled as she raised a hand, ?Do you trust me??

Icer?s eyes narrowed a bit at the question, ?You know I do.?

Kairee?s smile dazzled, ?Excellent?.this will take a few minutes but I promise, it won?t hurt.? She laid her hand on Icer?s chest, over a great light blue scale and sliding her hand up further so it slid partially under an overlapping scale. Closing her eyes, Kairee called forth the power within. Delving into the mystical, she took on the laborious task of shaping the raw power utilizing her esoteric knowledge and skill.

To the uninitiated it was a strange tableau of a remarkably beautiful woman holding her hand to the breast of smallish light blue dragon, unmoving and still except for willowy lengths of Kairee?s long fiery red hair caught in the charge of power as she cast. An ever so slight white glow emanating from beneath her hand and reflected off Icer?s scales.

The air about them tingly and static causing hairs to stand on end as Kairee worked the power. Warmth caressed Icer?s scale growing in intensity, most notable to an Ice Dragon but not enough to hurt or cause discomfort.

The sun dipped deeper to the horizon and still she cast. Nearly an hour had past before Kairee?s emerald eyes fluttered open. Taking a deep breath, Kairee stepped back, her brow furrowed briefly before she remembered herself and flashed a brilliant smile to Icer. Just peeking out from beneath the over lapping scale an outline of a red dragon rampant, like the in her heraldic device, in a softly glittering ruby red could be seen.

?It is done.? Kairee announced, ?When you are ready to return come to this place. Activate the sigil by touching it and thinking of the Inn. Then proceed through the pass, it will guide you home. When you return to Rhydin, the sigil will fade. Now go?.I look forward to what you will report.?

Turning from Icer, Kairee took another deep breath. She missed the familiar rush of power flowing into her to replace what she spent. There was a trickle, like the anemic stream to the gate, slowing filling the void left within after enchanting Icer?s scale with Dimensional magics but it is not at the speed she desires or with which she is familiar. Kairee kept the frown from her lips the better not to cause concern in her companions. She knows she will recharge but it will take nearly three times as long if not longer on this world. It?s fortunate her magical reserves are deep and that she?s brought power storage gems with her, just in case, however, Kairee knows she will have to be careful in her use of magic least she expends too much and then not have it to call upon when she needs it the most.

It was only now that Kairee noticed the hustle and bustle of her company as Brian directed them in setting up camp for the evening. Striding confidently to the clearing, she is met by Brian. Gracing him with a smile, she directed ?Brian, in my trunk, the one painted red, you will find four black stones each etched with the same design. Have them set at the cardinal points and let me know when they are in place. I will then activate the Ward to protect the camp.?

As Brian approached, his eyes did indeed meet those of Dafydd. A slow nod was offered and little else, as Brian turned his attentions to Kairee once more, prepared to make his report and left the man to his own works in turn.

Standing by quietly, Brian remained at her side until she was finished and then explained what was underway, granted it was fairly obvious due to the bustle of activity and what not. Still, Brian was one for laying it all out and that is exactly what he had done.

Going over the preparations once more with Kairee, Brian also included the ranger's reports of seemingly no hostiles in the area of the camp, and also made note to her of the sentries stationed about the camp, and the estimated time for completion in regards to the set up.

He then watched the exchange between Kairee and Icer a moment, and proudly smiled upon hearing Icer's words, that she would be remaining. A wave offered to Icer as she lifted off once more, then Kairee's words gained his attention once more.

?Brian, in my trunk, the one painted red, you will find four black stones each etched with the same design. Have them set at the cardinal points and let me know when they are in place. I will then activate the Ward to protect the camp.?

Looking to the Lady once more, Brian bowed and looked to Marcel. Without another word the ranger was off to scout positions that would best suit the Lady's request, as Brian nodded to Kairee once more and answered. "It shall be as you ask, M'Lady. I shall return shortly, and inform you. Also, will you be dining with us tonight? Or shall I bring something to you, instead? Actually, you can let me know when I return, we still have a bit of work to do."

Another bow offered, as Brian turned and headed out to locate said trunk, and the specified stones. Moments later, stones in hand Brian met with Marcel and secured each stone at equal points about the camp in conjunction directly with North, South, East and West. A salute was given to Marcel, as the ranger then sped off to assist with the interior of the camp. Brian turned away and once more headed towards Kairee's tent to imform her of the completion of her task, along the way a few orders were barked here and there. Still it was progressing nicely, and Brian was confident this would all be smooth.

It was with trumpets blaring and banners flying that the city of Appleburg opened its gates to the mysterious Lady Kairee of the Red Dragon.

There are those that noted this auspicious occasion was marked by the parting of the clouds as the Lady?s entourage passed through the main gate just as the rain that darkened the sky for the past two days abruptly ended as her herald was announced to the court of King Ia?an.

Excitement was palpable amongst the people as they lined the narrow high street, trying to steal a glance of this exotic visitor. With craning necks, they sought to peek inside the carriage; murmurs hummed in amazement that her entourage is so small. They had expected a massive retinue based on some of the rumors that flowed through the towne as water runs in streams. Rumors abounded about this potential heir to the throne. The Lady is of the blood, some said, perhaps a illegitimate child of Ia?an?s, fathered during the time he was away seeking his wayward son. Other?s claim the lady to be a magical being, like a goddess come to the world to save them and yet others disparage her as little more than a foreigner and opportunist based on the unconfirmed report that the King?s embassy to her far away realm sought her at a Inn. Regardless of which rumors they chose to believe, all the people were consumed with curiosity about this woman who may be able to firmly grasp of the Scepter of Sovereignty where so many had failed.

Clattering over the cobblestones, Kairee?s party, resplendent in their livery, ascended the steep and twisting approach of High Street to the mount upon which Appleburg?s fortified castle sits overlooking the towne and the lands beyond. More trumpets blow a triumphal call as Kairee?s coach draws up before the steps leading to the Great Hall.

The myriad of nobles, functionaries, and other hangers-on of the Appleburgian court turned out in style. For all their importance, they were just as excited as peasant and townsman, though they worked harder to maintain a stoic dignity they believed a sign of superiority over the more rambunctious classes. Dafydd?s arrival the evening before, bearing news of his Mistress? approach set the court into a flurry of preparation. This woman Ia?an has invited may ultimately rule them and first impressions may make or break their fortunes if she ascends to the throne.

The people followed Kairee?s train up into the grand courtyard and, almost as one, fell reverently silent. King Ia?an stands at the great doors; his frail form breaking the heart of the people for they remembered him as the strong virile man he was until not so long ago. His finely embroidered and bejeweled robs hung from his shoulders, nearly engulfing him, the gold crown of Appleburg resting heavily on his brow. Though the Court of Appleburg crowded the steps leading form the Great Hall, King Ia?an stood alone.

As the footman scrambles down to open the carriage door, Dafydd steps forth and flourishes a bow to Ia?an. ?Your Majesty,? Dafydd?s clear, bardic voice loud enough to address the large gathering, ?Lady Kairee of The Red Dragon!? he sweeps arm toward the coach. Davfydd bows and takes a few steps back as the footman takes his cue to open the carriage door and offer the lady his hand.

Like the sun emerging from behind a cloud, Kairee?s appearance lifted the spirits and dazzled the senses of those basking in her presence. Kairee empathically felt the change in the crowd even as her delicately shoed foot extended from the carriage and her lily hand rested on the footman?s as he gallantly assisted her descent. The gasping hush as she stepped from the coach was the icing for the moment. The effects of a very well crafted ?presence enhancement? spell always entertained Kairee and she smiled secretly to herself. Pausing a moment to let the lengths of her full black dress settle around her feet, she knew all eyes were on her and she let them take a moment to admire.. Nearly off the shoulders, the dress tastefully revealed the satiny gold kirtle beneath. A great red dragon, rampant, was emblazoned on the front of her gown, paws seeming to reach for her breasts. Her fiery red hair was dressed and plaited with gold cording and rubies studded through out, a gold circlet subtly set with rubies, diamonds and emeralds rested on her head.

Emerald eyes looked up to Ia?an and she allowed a dazzling smile to grace her ruby lips. Her step was a study in grace, slow deliberate and full of formal solemnity. Her attention was squarely on Ia?an as she ascended the stairs and passed the bowing nobility.

Ia?an, with heart pounding in her chest, took a few steps forward in eagerness to great her, ?Lady Kairee!? he cried, ?You have come at last! Welcome to Appleburg!?

Normally, one would expect whoever approaches the King, unless a visiting royal peer, to show proper deference by curtsey or bow, Kairee, however, boldly strode up to Ia?an, hands reaching out to cup his cheeks and planting a kiss firmly on his lips and through that kiss passing to him a small restorative spell. Nothing that would heal him of that which plagues him but enough to bring color to his pallid skin and revive his strength enough to stand straighter and feel youthful energy course though his bones once again.

?It?s good to see you again, Ia?an.? She smiled down at him. Though she was not wearing her characteristic high-heeled shoes, at 6?1?, Kairee was still a few inches taller than the King.

Neither seemed aware of the general shocked reaction to their greeting; Kairee because she truly did not care and Ia?an because of the way she made him feel when standing so close. He had not felt so good as this in too long a while and attributed the burst of energy to her mere presence alone.

Sensing Brian not far behind her at the foot of the stairs, ?Ia?an, may I present Sir Brian Ravenlock, captain of my company and my personal sword.? A slight turn and wave to her retinue, ?And Master Thorfin, my accountant.? By previous agreement, the footman had taken the reigns of the barouche once the Lady had progressed toward the king. Seeing the confusion in Ia?an?s eyes, Kairee amended her statement, ?My exchequer.?

?Ah yes! Welcome Sir Ravenlock and Master Thorfin! All those that serve this Lady will find welcome in Our court.? Though Ia?an greeted them enthusiastically, Kairee could see the effort drained him of energy. Ia?an, however, was resolved to do his Kingly duty before his court and his people. ?My Lady, You know Our Marshal, Sir Ives. And beside him stands Lord Penbrook, Our Exchequer, Lord Epren, Our Seneschal? the three bow to Kairee at the introduction and she bestows upon them a smile, ?Stalwarts all and true.? With a light turn to his left, Ia?an continues with his introductions, Our court mage, Nikolas Olenson. Given the wonders of your realm, Lady Kairee, We are certain you will have much to discuss with Master Olenson.?

Kairee eyes swept over the mage Nikolas as he bowed. His aura shimmered in the ways those with arcane talent often does. Flicker of color speaking of elemental affinity but he does not blaze with power and Kairee saw no sign that he obscures his true nature as she does. ?I would be glad to speak with Master Nikolas about his talents and the nature of his service to your Court.? She inclines her head toward him before her eyes turn to a young, finely dressed woman standing between Nikolas and Ia?an.

?My Lady, we are very pleased and excited to introduce you to Princess Kormora, widow to Our beloved son, Stefan.? He smiles warmly to Kormora, ? She has been a comfort to Us during Our tribulations and We hope We have been the same to her.?

Like most men, Ia?an did not see the layers of meaning in the look between the two women as their eyes met. Kairee noted that Kormora is a pretty, ?bottle?, red-head with a dark smokey gaze laced with distrust. There was a hint of magic about Kormora?s aura but nothing significant in Kairee?s estimation. The Princess maintained a cordial yet icy dignity. It would not due to show her displeasure or concern at the arrive of this new claimant who the King was so obviously besotted with. The briefest of momentss passed before Kormora?s eyes dipped and she curtseyed low, ?Your arrival was waited for with great anticipation, Lady Kairee.?

?It is good to finally be here.? Kairee responded neutrally and then turned a smile back to Ia?an; the Princess so easily dismissed.

?Come! It is time we retire, My Lady must be tired from her long journey and We cannot keep her away from the warmth of the chamber prepared.? With a grin, Ia?an offered Kairee his arm and lead the royal procession inside.