The family had gathered. Salice had called them all home. With one message.

"We are going to have a festival for Beltane." The queen smiled as she held hands with Etten. It had been quite sometime since Edhel Ndor had held a fest.

"Be sure to welcome any and all of the alliance. Those of you who venture to Rhydin may invite any you wish to come to the party. I am opening the realm. Shea and I discussed how it might be possible for those not of the Alliance to gain access to the realm and we came up with an idea."

Shea smiled to that. "Many in Rhydin may carry a token from me, or even have an alliance pendant. But for those who don't we have made a way in. They shall simply speak the words Upon my words. Grant me passage to Edhel Ndor. Or in elven Deno' amin beth. Lav amin tarna a' Edhel Ndor. "

"Then a portal would open there before the person, and no the person would not have to be magically able to summon it. They would simply have to have the will to do it and good intent. There will be no fighting at this event. And we will keep the peace here, no matter who comes."
Salice smiled walked to Lona and lifted her up.

"The theme for our Beltane is: Under the Surface: Behind the Veil. And it was in part Shea's idea."

"It is simple. Ladies and Gents will dress to their opposite side. If your a light hat, a white hat. For Our Beltane you dress Darkly. If your a man or woman usually known for their darker half." Shea eyed Darkmere on that. "You shall dress lightly. Formal attire is a must. Ladies in dresses or skirts, or at very least fine pants. Gents in suits, and ties, or a costume that fits the theme. Salice has sent out the invites over Edhel Ndor, as well as the rest of the Allied Realms And we who venture to Rhydin may invite any who we wish."

"There will be food and drink, events and fun. I have it all written out and will share it with you all. I expect help from the mages in the room with d?cor and the fun. Food will be made by the very cable ands of GreenStone Kitchen Staff with some supplemental help from Crendia, Nosgoth, and Sim'Tahl's kitchens. We are welcoming families to come. But Young children will be put up to bed before the full party is in swing. Vanya will help care for the children along with the fine maids and nurse hands of The Alliance." At that Salice handed Lona to Etten. The little girl made a face and giggled when Etten made one right back at her.

Shea smirked. "There is much to do. We hope it will be grand fun."

Hera rolled up her sleeves and grinned. "Well, its about high time we had another party. The last one was what? Cadaria and Drakes wedding?"

"Yes it was.." Cadaria grinned at that then leaned over and gave Drake a kiss..

"Well then, lets get to work. What needs doing?" Hera put that up and got a few long looks. "We all need it. And lets face it, parties are fun."

Salice grinned. "We start now. the castle needs a good cleaning, the gardens as well. Guards need to be informed. Menu made and food tried out. the events need to be planned out in full and lights hung ever where outside. Etten has already agreed to go with Kahn and Audrey in to town to inform all the locals. The rest of us have planning to do. So this is where we will begin..."

Salice set to giving everyone a job to do. There would be much going on at the castle for the next few hours and days.


(Posting of the Party will begin by May the First)

Jade loved a good party. Even when that party required her to wear a dress. Jade got a good laugh at the theme of the party. Under the Surface:Behind the Veil. dress to your oppsing side. Which meant Jade,the flirt. Jade the woman in black normally. Jade the darkly toned would be in white. So she picked out a white dress with silver accents.

It was of elven make and she looked stunning in it. She wore a white cloak and nice white heels. She polished her nails, kept ehr make up simple and pretty. Wore a pretty ring and collared silver necklace. Even her under wear was white. Her auburn hair was done with soft curls. Beside her her king also wore white. She smirked at him. White dress pants and a grey shirt with a white cloak. His dark hair a bit of a tumbled mess since Azura saw fit to play with it.

The two girls dashed from the portal to the castle nd right by the darkly dressed queen and her sisters. Jade just smirked. They would have their fun with their firends then go to bed. Jade took Darkmere's arm and walked upt he steps and looked at the three sisters. "You white hats get all the fun."

Salice smirked to Jade and Dark, "You both look lovely in white. Dashing even. Welcome to you both. There is food already within, servants at beck and call, and two open bars with lovely tenders. The children are in the throne room with Victor and Audrey. The Treasure hunt will begin before sundown. Then our fun, our adult fun can begin."

Jade smiled. "Its a good thing I have hung around you three so much, I think I can act good for one night." Darkmere smirked to her on that. "And when you don't pull it off?" Jade smiled over at him sweetly. "You have to do it too lover mine. No dark brooding this night. Your light tonight ..just like me." She leaned up on her toes and kissed his cheek.

"Let me show you both in." Shay offered with a smirk. Jade looked over the woman. A green dress with a low cut V neck, lots of silver gold glitter and sheer fabric. Her dark hair elegant half up behind her head and spilling over her shoudlers. Her eyes were intenesly done with tones of green makeup, her lips virabt red. She wore an emerald necklace low, a ring of onyx and a silver bracelt witht he look of vines. Her fingers were colored green. "And who are you tonight Shay?"

"I am Mistress of Poison Thorns and you M'lady Alcar?" Jade smirked. "I'm Jade :The Virtuous. " Shay smirked. "You look well in white." She guided them to the throne room where the chidlren were running about.

Jade smirked. "Kids already hyped up." Shay nodded. "They can't wait to go on the hunt."She nodded to Victor and Audrey who stood in the room with the kids. "The wait staff is making rounds, but if you need anything.. well Mr. White here can easily summon it."A grin to Darkmere as Shay left.

Jade giggled softly. "Victors in tones of white and gray too. You nearly match. Look at Audrey in her black and red. "Jade didn't note Kahn near by. "I bet your brother will be in gray, Kahn's not a white hat but he's not a dark sider either." She got a long look from Dark before he crossed the room to speak to Victor. Jade smiled and walked to Audrey. "Smashing look Aud. Where's Kahn?"
Audrey smiled. "He's still getting ready. Muttering over which suit to wear. How was your King in getting dressed?" Jade looked over toward him, "like a child. I had to promise a few things to get him out of his dark brooding look." Audrey chuckled to that. "The Alcar men.. not happy with light clothing..I wonder how Rune and Ghallon will fair in darker tones.." Jade pffed at that. "They will pull it off, god forsaken men."

With that Jade looked over the kids who romped about the room.

Lorelei Aurdon had been able to grace a few of these parties now. But this one seemed like such utter fun. She linked her hand with Georg who looked like a rogue tonight. Dawned in all black, wearing a pirate hat. They matched with her wearing her take on a wenches outfit. Cutlass at her side, hair down in a beachy wave. A brown pirate hat askew on her head. Georg dutifully carried Celaniel in her hand held carrier. The babe was already sound asleep.


"Hello Shea, Salice." Lori smiled to the two. They both wore dark tones, both looked lovely. Lori loved the theme for this. It gave her a chance to act wild and watch her husband do the very same.

"Oh ahoy there Pirate king and lady." Shea smirked. "Georg darling you look very dashing and dangerous. And Lori my dear look at you. Are you sure you don't always dress this way?"

Salice chuckled and looked down to the sleeping little one. "There are rooms up stairs set for the wee ones. Micheal is already sleeping as well.
Most of the other kids are taunting Victor in the throne room."

"I will take Celi up, you go to Victors aide." Lori took the carrier from Georg. He nodded to her and tipped his hat at Salice and Shea then walked up the steps and inside.

Salice grinned at Lori. "Our pirate seems very at ease in his look tonight."

"I helped dress him, and he enjoyed helping me. Its better than the ball mask. I can't wait to see what happens. I am going to take her up and get her settled." Speaking of her daughter, with a smile Lori walked towards the steps up and in.

Shea watched her go and smirked at Salice. "We do throw one hell of a party do we not?"

Salice just chuckled. "We do indeed."

Salice stood outside watching the sun drop lower. Shea had gone within to see to Mina and some of the other children. Standing there alone Salice took a long breath. Looking South she thought of her father. Of the shrine at the top of the tallest peek of the mountains. When Beltane was done, Salice would go there. She would stand there upon the soil that was ever green now thanks to Victor. She would stand where Shea had nearly died, where Jinnalt had fallen to his death and where The dark fire mage's magic had fled Alaric and gone in to Devron.

The Queen did not think about him often. The man who she had loved. The father of her children. No. Etten was Lona and Dalryn's father. He had stepped in to their lives and to her own when she had needed him. She had given her another son Micheal. Another heir to the GreenStone name. Heir's always meant something. Salice had never figured herself to be High Queen. She had served the kingdom for years as a knight. Given up her rights to the crown for her brothers sake.

But there she stood. Before the home that had been built so long ago. And now it had more allies. Powerful allies. Salice saw the portal flicker and smiled to who came through it. Raz Alcar arm in arm with Aldaya Lorelle-Alcar.

Aldaya looked rather stunning in her tones of brown and green. Her blue hair was in a long braid down her back, she carried her ever faithful bow and quiver. She wore a green cloak, along with her brown and green toned dress. She looked as a spirit of the wood, one that could disappear. The archer would hardly be seen with out that bow, even on a night such as this. beside her Raz wore tones of gray. Oh Salice knew him to be a rogue. A true one at that. He was a taunt and tease, a man of very few words, but handsome as the devil. They were well matched. Salice was happy to see her old friend Aldaya. Once head commander of the Archers of GreenStone.

"Welcome to you both."

Raz grinned at her. "Quite the look fro you My Lady Salice." He gave her a wink. Salice smirked at him, "And you Lord Alcar and your lady. "

"Poison Huntress at your service My Queen." Aldaya smiled to that.

Salice grinned. "Please go inside, there is food and drink about. The children are in the throne room awaiting the last of the others." Raz grinned to that. "Gabe and Anala should be on their way."

Salice nodded to that. And watched as they moved hand in hand to the castle steps and up and in. It was odd what allies had been won through love and marriage. Looking to the castle she knew Etten was inside likely doing his best not to lurk. He had dawned tones of gray, and muttered about it. He did wear a nice white dress shirt. And Salice found that it fit him well, despite his normal dark tone.

Smiling she turned and looked to the town beyond. Lit up for the festival. The smell of fresh bake breads and goodies wafted through the air. Children had run and played in the streets all day and now were before warming fires for fine meals. Salice had seen to every family. There were no poor in Edhel Ndor. The Kingdoms had long ago seen tot hat. No one would go with out food and shelter. No one would go with out warmth and comfort.

Looking back towards the mountains Salice smiled. "Thank you Atar."

Shea came outside and wrapped her arm about Salice's shoulders. "Etten is inside with Victor, Kahn and Dark entertaining the children. Our guests who are here are mingling and enjoying some of the food you had the mind to have prepared. Audrey is helping Vanya and the nurses fuss over the wee ones upstairs."

Salice smirked over at Shea. "Did you ever think we would come to this?"

Shea's dark brows rose to the question. "If by this you mean, you high queen, mother and married to a man that in the past we wouldn't have trusted, and me a mother, grand mother, married to a vampire, wind mage slowly dying from power. No. But here we are. And I for one am happy for us all. You, Shay and I. We have seen through so much. And yet we have remained strong. We have grown, as a family as women."

Shea hugged Salice closer and watched the portal flicker. "There are Max and Maewen. And Little Max." The boy came running out of the portal yipping. He waved as he didn't stop in his run for the castle.

Shea chuckled then looked at Max and Mae. They were perfectly matched. Maewen wore a black dress, that showed off her lenght of legs, it had bronze toned desgins about the top, that looked like melted metal.. Her fall fo dark hair was pulled half back and spilled over her left shoulder. Her eyes glowed green, and her lips and nails were polished with golden bronze.She wroe gold and diamond earrings, a gold cuff on her arm. Beside her Max wore tones of bronze and gold, mixed with black. His long hair was pulled back.


"Your son seems as the other children are. Hyper." Shea comemnted to Mae as she huggd her. Maewen smirked. "Oh he's all about finding treasure. It has been too long since we came here, too long since a good party."

"Well I can promise it will be grand fun. There is food and drink inside. And your son will have found the throne room and the other crazy children by now. Victor, Dark, Kahn and Etten are tending to them."

Max chuckled to that. Then he gave Maewen a litte tug and spin in her dress. She giggled and kissed him softly. They smiled to Salice and Shea then walked up and inside the castle. Shea smiled watching them. "If the Alliance had never come to be, those two would have never met." Salice nodded, "And if you had never ventured to Rhydin we likely wouldn't have so many allies as we do now."

Shea chuckled, " So a few good things have come out of the forsaken city. "She heard a giggle isndie and the call of "Mina put that down!" "Perhaps I should go inside and help Victor with our daughter."

Salice grinned. "I am sure Victor is able. And there's nothing in there that if it was to break would be tragic. Recall when Vanya broke that vase when she was five and Audrey was so worried. Then poof we fixed it as if nothing had happened?"

Shea chuckled. "Aye. I suppose your right. And it will do Victor good, show off his fine looks in that suit. "

Just as Salice turned back she got leg takled by a little runner. "Sally.." Adaron looke dup at her with wide eyes. He was only four but he had gotten to running only a week ago. And now there was no stopping him. He called her Sally with effection for he couldnt say her name correctly. "Well, look at this little man."She bent down and lifted him up and smiled to Aiden and Mila.

Aiden carried Amaleigh leaving Mila fee. The lovely woman was dressed in black, red and white. A stunning look for her. Her silver hair in a very unique braid. Her eyes shown brightly, accented by red make up.

"Aiden, Mila." She smiled as they came closer. Amaleigh was awake but barely. "Mommy said I could do the tree hunt if you said it was ok." He tried to saw treasure and it came out tree. But Salice knew what he meant.

Salice smiled. "Well yes, you can stay up and do the treasure hunt. It is fine with me. But you have to be a good boy. You have to behave with the other children and wait till all the guests are here."


He smiled and nodded and she sat him down. "It wont be any trouble at all to have him stay awake a bit longer to dot he treasure hunt. Vanya is about helping watch the children."

At Vanya's name Adaron made a yip noise and started for the castle steps. Mila chuckled and started after him but Aiden just shook his head. "I will go. Aunt you look lovely, and I will go find my mother so she can coo over Amaleigh before she falls asleep." He hugged Salice and went after his son.

Mila watched him. In darker tones. He pulled it off well. "In the fading light doesn't he remind you of Victor?" Mila moved up beside Salice. Salice looked over to Aiden. It was true. Aiden was not Victors son by blood, but in the darker tones with his dark blue hair pulled back the young man could be a very young Victor. "That will please Victor."

Mila chuckled. Salice grinned. "You go in, enjoy the food and drink that is about. There are a few more guests we are expecting." Mila nodded. "Aiden said that you opened the realms to Rhydin .. that is rare."Salice nodded. "Yes, well Shea convinced me."

"Aiden told me one of the city. Are you expecting anyone, or has anyone come yet from there?" Salice shook her head, "Not yet. And I am not sure whom to expect. Shea would know more likely."

Mila smiled. "I will go see what she has to say, Aiden's likely found her by now, and she's likely cooing over Amaleigh." Turning Mila moved for the steps and in.

Salice watched her and smiled. She turned her eyes to the slowly darkening sky. "You would be very proud of your son, Adaron Istalindir." She kenw his spisrt had passed on, Shea had told him thusly. But she hoped that perhaps he heard her. Aiden had grown toa fine man. Salice could still recall the boy he had been. A boy she helped raise. Smiling she looked towards the gardens where she heard Shay and Kulbins voices. Then the laugh of Etten. Yes this was going to be a good night.

The sun was dipping lower. Soon the children. Both young and young at heart would be searching for treasures hidden. Salice smiled softly thinking about how much fun they would all have. By now Lona likely would have spotted a few items. She felt the wind change and thought perhaps Shea was coming back outside. But then when there was a flicker of darkness and a puff of breeze she knew Novella and Magus were coming.

The wind died down and the couple stood together. Novella wore a dark blue dress that was fitted at the center with soft designs. She wore a blue cloak, Her two toned blue and green hair was half up half down and softly curled. Her tattoo shown purple on the right side of her face. Both of her two toned eyes were done up with make up that made them look as if they had wings. Beside her Magus wore silver. Like a shock of lightning. It fit the shadow mage oddly well.

"Novella, Magus." The shadow mage just nodded and went right for the caste with out pausing. Novella just grinned. "He thinks I lied when is aid the other darkly toned men would be in lighter clothing. He's gone to seek out Victor and Darkmere."

"He will find them both in tones of white, Etten in gray, Kahn and Raz as well. I would not have it any other way."

Novella smiled. "I do enjoy dressing to my darker side. Magus did not seem to mind that part. I do not see him getting through the night in silver, but we shall see."

Salice chuckled. "Oh he will get through the night. If I have to tie him to a chair."

Novella chuckled. "He may enjoy that. Has Willow arrived yet? I wanted to speak with her."

"No She and Ghallon are not yet here. I await them and a few others. But Shea is inside some where likely trying to tame her daughter or cooing over Amaleigh."

"Is it true you opened the realm to outsiders?"

"Yes, It was Shea?s idea. She Hera and Jade often go to Rhydin often. And Drake and Cadaria live there half the time. Lori and Georg both spent time there. Though I have never seen the city Aiden told me about it from his short visits. Shea promises me that no danger will come here. She worked up something with Darkmere. What I do not know. But With all the warriors and mages we have I do not worry. There is little this realm has not seen before. "

"Shea came to see me. To see all the mages guild. She wanted us to be prepared in case anything odd came through. She spoke of some sort of what did she call it.. A motor ized being.. She then summoned a thing she called a motor bike. That belongs to Victor."

"Yes. That is one of the things that could come of this. Odd things we are all not used to. But it will be good for us all. "

Novella lifted a brow at that then smiled. "Anala and Gabe were right behind us. Warner was very ampted up for the party. He said he was going to find all the treasure items."

"Mina and Lona said likewise. It will be a fight to the finish."

Novella chuckled. "Well I am going to watch them go at it, but first I am going to go peek at the well dressed men and have a drink."

Salice nodded. " If you see my king would you ask him to come out here for me, for a moment."

"Aye." To the steps she moved like wind over grass and up in to the castle.

Salice stood there and smiled. She then felt a sudden little burst of heat. The fire lit lamps near by flickered and the fires that burnt near the gardens flared then wen back to normal. She just smirked as Kegan and Harenya appeared in a flicker of flames.

"Trying to impress Lord and Lady of Flame?"

Kegan grinned at her. Salice looked to Harenya this was the woman?s second appearance at the castle. "Welcome to you both. Lady Feanor you look stunning." The dark elf was in black and flame red. Her onyx hair was down over her back her orange eyes played with fire light.

" Diola lle."Harenya bowed her head to Salice.

Kegan wore black. His dark red hair free flowing for once. His eyes played with fire light as well. Salice felt warm there close to them. "I wanted to thank you Lord Alder for helping to keep the party with its essence of warmth."

He bowed at the waist. "It is my pleasure my lady."

"There is food and drink within, many are mulling about. The children await one more of their friends before they can start their hunt. Zhorn is here, and Shea tells me more drow kin may come from Rhydin."

"I have heard talk of this Zhorn. I would like to meet him."Harenya looked to Kegan then back to Salice. "With drow kin here and more to come you have Morimatra I assume?"

Salice nodded. "Yes, and if there is anything you need simply ask. It is not hard to summon things around here."

"Lets get us a glass of wine then my dear." Kegan held out his hand to Harenya and she took it. The couple walked slowly for the castle.

"Don't drink all the Arabellan Dry." Damek's voice called to Kegan. Salice turned back to see that he and Karica had come, there were traces of fines and leaves upon the ground where there had been none before. Damek stood in black and dark green. Beside him Karica wore a long black skirted dress with a tight corset top that had the look of fall leaves to it. Her feet were bare. Her green hair was down flowing about her shoulders, her lips richly painted. green. Her eyes shown out from elegant make up. She wore jewelry that looked of leaves and a gilded leave hair band. Salice had met the dryad once.

"Damek, Karica welcome." The plants of the realm seemed to have welcomed them both, as the scent of night blooming jasmine wafted in to the air.

"Thank you Lady GreenStone. It was kind of you to invite us." Karica spoke. Her voice was low,like that of a woodland creature.

"Please enjoy your self, and do not worry Damek there is plenty of your favored wine."

Damek chuckled to that. "Of that My lady I have no doubt. Shall we get a glass, a bite or two then go to the garden my dear?" Karica nodded. Damek took her hand and they walked to the castle.

They moved well together. Slowly,yet fluid. Harenya and Karica would fit in well with the alliance women. Both softly spoken, but both very powerful. But like most of the women of the alliance, they would grow more bold with time. Salice just knew it.

Salice didnt need to worry. Hera was on her way. She stood otuside the cottage and watched Kane go running for the portal. He no longer tottled. He was growing up. She stood there in black and red and smirked at Lang when he came out. Oh he had fussed more than a woman. But he had dawned a gray pants and a silver toned button up shirt. She though the looked dashing.

She held out her hand and he took it and shook his head at her. Together they walked for the portal.

Salice watched the portal flicker and watched Kane go running past. He had his mothers fire. He waved but didn't stop. Salice grinend and looked tot he couple as they appeared from the portal.

"Why is it that all the fire types have to make a grand entrance?"

Hera grinned. "Its what we do."

Salice looked over the fire elf. In a black and red dress. Her chestnut hair up in a fancy bun. The dress was tight to just above the knees then it flared out wild red like fire on dry grass. She bore no weapons that Salice could see. Beside her lang wore gray and silver. He gave Salice a winkt hen went after Kane.

"Now that you are here. We can begin the treasure hunt. The children are quite ready." Hera smiled and took Salice's' arm.

"Have any from Rhydin come?"

"Not as of yet."Salice walked wth Hera tot he castle and upt he steps. "Expecting someone?"

"I gave a few invites, but like me they will make an entrance or not at all."

Salice nodded softly. Soon they stood in the throne room where the chidlren were gathered. The others gathered there as well all around. Salice walked to the head of the room and took Etten's hand.

It was time to welcome everyone and start the night.

Through the gardens the children raced carrying their baskets. Some had found a few of the goodies. Others were still deep in hunt mode. Lona ,Kaleigh and Mina all together had found six. But Dalryn was beating them with eight. Azura and Angel had five. Max ,Warner and Kane had three each. Vanya and Joshua had two.

Aiden ran around with his sister and her friends. Maewen followed the boys helping them out with likl long looks. Kahn had gone off to help Vanya and Joshua.

When Gabe lifted Angel up to peer over the gardens Azura climbed up on to Raz's shoulders.

Jade watched chuckling. She looked over at her still brooding husband as he stood with Etten,Magus, Lang and Victor. Ghallon walked by now and again rubbing things in. HE even roped Rune in to doing the same. When she spied Hera jade walked over to the fire child. "Good doer."

Hera smirked at Jade. "Bad girl."

Jade chuckled. "I see your husband has joined the boys in white who are brooding." Hera peered over to the group and smirked. She looked over the gardens. Kulbin sat with Shay and watched their daughter race about and spoke to Damek and Karica. Harenya and Kegan stood by the fires and Hera smiled at the couple. She planned to talk to them both at some point tonight.

Sira snickered as Damien rose to help Warner,Max and Kane look for treasure. She had spied the hidden wolf toy, the hidden wind chime and the fortune teller card. She grinned. As she had helped hide an item she could enjoy the antics.

Hera looked back over towards the castle there was music within. She didn?t spy Emily, Zhorn,Drake or Cadaria and smiled knowing they must be dancing already. Novella crossed to Shea and the two shared a toast. Anala stood with Salice both smiling watching the kids. Aldaya stood with Audrey the two watching Vanya lead Joshua around the garden. Kraven crossed from the castle to Radella and handed her a glass of sparkling water and Anarya a glass of red wine.

"Now there?s someone who?s gotten a bit more..what shall I call him?" Looking to Kraven. Hera grinned.

Jade followed the gaze. " He's become a father, that changes a man. Even a man like Kraven."

Hera smiled. Looked towards Lang then towards their son who was running about with the boys. "Did Shea speak to you?"

Jade nodded. "Yes. She explained what happened. Why no one came to our aide in Rhydin."

"Something stirs. Shea was mum on it."

Jade nodded. "It seems that the party comes first. Then tactics."She gave her pendant a tap. "Shea saw to all the pendants, cleansed them of what ever evil stopped us from having help."

Hera nodded. "Someone did help us, and not just Bryant. In the water, I saw it."

Jade nodded. "Water spirit. Salice didn't send it nor Anala. It was of Rhydin."

"When we go back to Rhydin, we are going to talk to Lola. And Bryant. We need more allies there. We have the sisters, and a few others. Its high past time."

Jade nodded. "I agree. I think that?s part of why Shea opened the realm to others. The other ally pendants. Something's coming, and we may not be able to stand against it. Not alone, not even as a powerful alliance."

Hera nodded then looked over at Kegan. "The fire mage promised to speak to me. Want to sit in?" Jade looked over towards Harenya and Kegan. "I would." They walked towards the fires.

To start off the night Salice would coax Etten in to a dnace. there utside int he fire light. The music came, as if from the wind. A small band appeared and the music played ever louder.

The other couples flowed on tot he dance floor and danced some of the first dances of the night.

When the music died to a low hum Salice smiled to Etten. She spun out and looked to her dancing friends and family.Lovely couples. She saw the magic, not jsut the real magc that bloomed about, but that which had no substance or form.

"I think its time for dinner." Etten grinned at her and summoned a glass of wine then gave it a tap. "Ladies, Gents. Dinner will be served soon. For those of you who wish to sit within there is space, but as you can see there are palces out here to sit and enjoy. "

Salice grinned at him. " The Main dinner items are Herb Roasted Pheasant with Blackberry sauce. Grilled Trout with dill. Or Lemon Garlic Pasta. There are a choice of sides. A side salad with choice of dressings. Freshly baked elven breads. A Rustic coleslaw. A Pesto Pasta salad. Or Quinoa Salad with spinach, apples, and pecans. And you can choose any of the items you wish and have as much as you would dare. After dinner there will be dessert. "

The guests filed towards the door, others towards the outdoor seating. Salice gave Ettena peck on the cheek and walked within. Shea followed her sister. "Pheasant, my favorite." Salice grinned, "Both of our favorites. It is a time honored classic."

Anarya walked up beside them as they headed for the dinning room. "Whats for dessert?"" Salice grinned at her, Anarya was known for her sweet tooth. "Choices of a Raspberry Parfait. Chocolate Mousse , Chocolate Chip Cr?me Puffs, simple vanilla ice cream, or fruit sorbet. Any or all in your case as it may be Gran."

Anarya grinned and gave Fae on her shoulder a little rub. "I can not help it if I enjoy sweets."

Those who ahd come inside sat down. Gents pulled out chairs for their ladies. Salice gave the head spot to Anarya. As she was the matron of the family. She sat beside her and Shea. Mila sat beside Shea and Aiden beside her grinning at his mother.

Shavyn was sitting outside with
Kulbin,Karica,Damek,Harenya,Kegan,Radella,Kraven, Jade, Aldaya, Raz,Emily Zhorn,Max,Maewen,Novella, Magus,Sira ,Damien and Hera.

Anala sat at the other end of the table with Gabe.Darkmere and Lang sat beside Willow and Ghallon. Kahn sat to her far left with Audrey.Lori and Georg down far on the right.Vanessa and Rune beside them. Cadaria and Drake on the far left neat the end of the table. As soon as everyone was seated inside or out. Waiters and waitresses filed in to take orders. They wore tones of green. Most were elven.They filed in quick and kind. Taking orders for food and drink.

Most of the geusts knew the choice of drinks that had been set out. Mnay had already enjoyed a glass of wine or champange. Some had sparkling water or even tea. With the guests seen to Salice could smile and watch. She could take up conversations and not have to worry about a thing. It was all seen to.

Jade ran giggling after Hera. The two traded thrown desserts. Then turned their skills on Shea,Shay and Salice. Sira was thick in the fight, between Max and Aiden. Damein was hidding out in the garden with those who had chsoen to flee before getting to dirty.

But many took it all in stride.Jade was suprised by Willow who danced by Ghallon putting a nice line of mousse donw his face. Then Jade snickerd as the not so old man went right back after Willow.

Kulbin seemed to be running on both sides. He would hit someone then go after another. Even his own wife.

"Traitor."Shay called out laughing. Only to get more dessert creme in the face via Victor.

"Lets sneak off to the garden and get Lori and Vae. They went and hid." Jade offered to Hera.Who was licking more creme from her lips. "Oh lets."

"Or" Cadaria grnned at them both and thewy both got a flick of chocolae to the face from the fallen angel.

Jade blinked and smirked at Hera. Cadaria giggled and turned and ran in tot he tent udner which the guys were rearming them selves. Hera and Jade followed only to get covered with creme puff filling as they walked right in to the meele.

Lori stood near three large metal buckets full of water and apples. The apples bobbed about the top. There in the light of the gardens she stood hand son her hips, hat slightly askew. "Come ye one and all to me side. Come closer and kneel to these lovely waters to pluck out the finest apples." A pirate grin.

There were a few glances given. Lori smiled. "Come now, do not tell me that even the water mages will not get a bit wet to bob for a lovely apple?" She grinned at Salice and Anala.


"I shall try it." Karica took a step forward.

"Ah a brave soul."
The lovely dryad knelt down spreading her dress out as she did. She tucked her hair back and went bobbing for an apple.

Lori smiled at Damek. "And what about you master mage? Be ye willing to try your luck?" He just chuckled. Lori smirked and lloked to Karica, who was not having much luck as of yet.

Sira walked up to the buckets. "I will do it." She bent down beside Karica and dunked her head in to the water.

"Ah that be one royal head I get to see wet, come now. Who else?"
~~~

And so it went. Lori teased and enticed and got the guests to bob for apples, half came u empty and wet other got a nice apple to eat if they so choose.

At the end of it all the water would be given to the plants the un touched apples washed once more and used. Even Lori went at it herself, getting Georg to chuckle at her when she came up apple in her mouth.


Those who did not try it had a few good laughs as other bobbed their heads in to the buckets .

Servers walked about the castle both in doors and out bringing out drinks and snacks. Bits of food and plates of it for those wishing second helpings.

When all the guests had returned from the carriage rides. Everyone gathered outside close to the gardens. Though all there were magic users or those who knew it well, Salice still planned to go forward with the magical displays.

Shea took up a center spot and looked over those gathered. "Though none of us here are unused to magic. I had hoped that perhaps we would have others here. But since we do not. I will allow our mages, to show off their fine skills. Perhaps some may even amaze." She took a bow and Anala walked forward.

She lowered her left hand towards the nearest fountain and summoned the water up from it. The water flowed up in tot he air,droplets first then a slow stream. She summoned it to flow between her fingers and towards those gathered. She formed the water in to a ball and bounced it towards Salice.

The queen caught the floating orb of water.

For those who knew her well, Salice did not often use her magic gifts. Though a skilled water mage she was better known for ehr cool head and diplomatic approach to the ruling of the kingdom. She held the orb of water in her hands then let it flow as a stream then droplets back towards the fountain.

There were a few claps. And more than one lifted eye brow. "You have been practicing." Shea offered lightly. Salice merely nodded, she had more up her sleeve than a simple trick, but would not say so now.

Anala then drew the attention of those gathered once more and slowly turned in to her water form. Fluid and made of the element. Her body had little form unless you truly looked. Hera looked on at the feat. The form looked nearly like the water spirit she had seen in Rhydin,. yet with even less form. Anala's elemental form was more free flowing. It was gentle and powerful all at once. With out a word whispered or a spell cast the water mage was back in her solid elven looking form.

There were more applause and she stepped down.

Sira then took up the spot. Now that got some brows to raise. Though she had magic from her both, magic through the druid blood in her veins, with the soil and earth like all her kin. Sira was more known for her magic with a bow and arrow than any other. But she stood there in her red and looked out at those gathered. Her eyes landed on Anarya and Fae. As the little red dragon was the only dragon here.

Sira had spent much time with the dragons of Sim'Tahl helping to raise a few broods now. She had saved them from dragon hunters and poachers. She had grown found of her dragon friends of her home. But something new had come out of it. A power that she was still discovering.

She held out her hand upraised towards the sky. She closed her eyes. She was sure everyone was waiting for her to do some sort of earth magic or perhaps summon her magical bow and do some amazing shooting.

Anarya watched her. She felt something. A stirring of power. Then she watched with some amazement as Fae rose from her shoulder and flew to Sira's. the little red dragon did not often trust others, and usually kept her distance. Sira opened her eyes and gave the little red dragon a soft pet with two fingers then to everyone?s amazement spoke to Fae in perfect Draconian.

Sira stepped down from the state and walked towards Anarya. Her brother starred on in wonder, Damien as well. He had never seen Sira do anything like that before. Fae fluttered back to Anarya.

"Seems we have much to discuss later." The elder said to Sira. Sira just nodded and re took her place with those gathered.

Shea had watched the feat with a risen dark brow. New powers rising.
Kulbin still a bit dumb founded walked up tot he strange and Damek rose and stood next to him.

Damek held out his hand and a leaf appeared long and green it floated an inch above his out spread palm. Kulbin looked to the leaf and slowly it began to glow as if the sun was shining through it. Slowly the leaf changed colors from green to orange to red. It hung there still glowing.

Karica walked up behind Damek and ran her fingers over his shoulder. Three more leaves appeared just hanging there in the air much like the leaf above his hand. Then three more and three more. All glowing red and orange leaves.

Then suddenly from the ground shot out fines, the vines were rich green and they captured the glowing leaves, taking them up. The guests looked on while a very strange tree was formed, from vines and glowing leaves.

When Aiden rose and crossed towards the newly formed tree Shea watched. Her son was not known for using the magic he was born in to. But he pressed a hand to the tree and the whole thing glowed.

Leaves started to fall one by one tot he ground disappearing as they hit the grass. When the last one fell it fell before Aiden's hand. It glowed then shone brightly. Within the leaf a cut out shown, of a tree. Then it took was gone the leave disappeared before all.

The vines remained there shot up behind them all. Slowly they wold see small bus appearing upon the fines. Those buds soon bloomed in to roses of every color. All faces turned to Shay, who just smiled. She had not even moved from where she stood.

Novella smiled and rose. Crossing towards the vines now filled with roses. She bent down and smelled one. She cupped one and plucked off one petal. She put the petal in her hand and closed it. There was a little sparkle then as she opened her hand a butterfly flew up and away.

Then she stood there before them all and held her hand out. There within her hand the air began to stir. Slowly. Like a mini whirlwind. It gathered bits of dust and flowed up from her hand. It gathered some of the smoke from the fires neat by and took on a more solid looking form. Within the smoke one might see little flashes of lightning. Smirking over at Magus Novella let the whirlwind dance up and away.

As the wind mage stepped down Kegan and Harenya walked up hand in hand. Kegan held out his hand cupped and a flicker of flame formed there. It burst forward a bit then in Harenya's out stretched hand the flames danced. Over the fingers warm and orange. In Kegan's hand his flames changed colors, taking on every color fire could be and the colors magic could give it.

He nodded softly towards Hera. Hera rose from where she sat and walked forward. She Took hold of Harenya's flame lit hand and Kegan's. The fire spread from them in to Hera over her arms. Orange flame and colored flames. They danced up over her arms through her hair. Magical, not burning. Not that it would have mattered to Hera.

The fire was warm and lovely. It dance down over her for, as she spun out to the group. Over her dress like a fire lily. Then it raced back up, back in to Harenya and Kegan. Back in to their forms and out spread hands which Hera let go of.

The lit fires about got brighter for a moment as the three stood there. Then they dimmed to the normal tones.

Willow clapping rose and walked towards the vines where the roses still bloomed. She too plucked a petal from one and cupped it in her hand. But when she opened it a small orb of color appeared, it was hollow and round, the outside filled with sparks of color. It floated above her hand and then a round the group. One orb turned to two, two to four, four to eight. Till there was one above each guests head. Then suddenly they burst raining down little sparkling star like flecks.

There were oohs and awes.

Shea took up the spot as Willow walked in to the sparkling falling flecks. She held forward her hands and a small glowing blue orb was there,it too was hallow, the blue glowed from lines like tendrils all about it. It floated up and changed color to a bright white.

Then in her other hand Shea formed another ob this one pulsed with darkness and shadow. Enough that even Jade looked side long at Darkmere who shook his head. Shea let the new orb float up to join the other. They danced above in space, soon joined by parts of each magical act that had come before. The leaves, the roses, the water, the air and lightning, the earth , fire and power of the dragons. Every part mixed in the air, swirling together. Making the alliance. Once joined the powers pulsed once then twice then like a fire work exploded over everyone.

And when they all looked back Shea was wandering off towards the gardens and more fireworks lit the sky.

The fireworks lit up the night with their vibrant colors.

Soon music was heard again.

Couples would go to dance, inside for a drink or a snack. To sit in the garden or along by the fire for stories to be told. The night was drawing closer to its end.

The walk through the gardens was slow and full of sights and smells. The night blooming roses and jasmine filled the air with their scent.

Kulbin and Shay led the way through the gardens. Sparkling with light. They were followed closely by Karica and Damek. The other who had chosen to come to the gardens followed along the path ways. Going to sit under the trees or by the fountains.

Some of the guests had retired. But many had stayed awake to enjoy the slow peaceful walk through the garden.

Shea walked drifting to the night blooming roses. She stood beside them and looked over to the eternal roses. They were closed but she knew their scent and color as well as she knew her own name. Those roses never died. Not even when cut and put in to vases. They never wilted. They lived for ever. A sign of the unity of a couple, a sign of love.

Reaching out she plucked one of the night blooming roses from the bush and tucked it up in to her hair.

She stood and watched the couples walk, together and alone. Through the garden. Slowly,walking in to the deep shade under a tree, along the paths and off them across the grass.

She walked slowly away from the roses to sit beside Aiden and Mila . She leaned gently over so her head rested on her sons shoulder.

"Everything alight Atara?" Aiden looked to his left where his mother sat.

Shea nodded softly. With her eyes closed she just listened tot he soft talk that flowed about the gardens. Talk of the dinner, the celebration. Of the dancing. Of the children asleep in their beds.

She also heard Hera and Jade who sat with the mages talking tactics. Always the warrior. They knew something was coming but not yet what. But they were preparing already.

Soon they would all have to prepare. But after the magic she had seen displayed in the show earlier. She knew they would not need much preparation.

So long ago she had sat right there, after finding out she was going to bare a son. Before Adaron was gone. She was so young then, younger than her son was now. Opening her eyes she glanced across to Mila.

She hadn't even heard Sira come up and join them. She had been swept back to a different time. A time that was perhaps it had been a simple time. A time where things were more clear cut.

There had been battles then. Loss. She gave Aiden's hand a pat then rose slowly to wander through the gardens. Many had gone inside for one last night cap, one more dance, or off to bed.

The night was over. The celebration done. In the morning there would be breakfast. Then there would come the clean up, which would take not but a whisper from any of the mages to be done.

Then once many had returned to their homes, they would all gather again. This time for a different reason. Shea looked up towards the moon and felt the wind rush past her,around her dress and through her hair. The wind whispered of the dangers.

She heard Shay and Kulbin conclude their more detailed garden knowledge with Damek and Karica. Heard those who said good night to head with in.
When Salice came to stand beside her Shea offered her sister a glance. Had she felt it too? One look told her yes. Shay wandered away from Kulbin and towards the two.

"He's in the cemetery."

Shea nodded. "Get Victor, Kulbin and Etten." Shay nodded and went off quickly to seek out each man.

"His spirit should have been long ago past. We saw it."

Shea nodded and took Salices hand. Together they walked to the far gate, soon joined by Shay ,Victor,Etten and Kublin.

As they crossed out of the garden Shea nodded to both Jade and Hera who followed behind. They walked as a small unit. Till they stood on the outskirts of the old cemetery. Shea was sure they all felt it then even before they crossed in.

There sitting on the stone was a soul. A specter or ghost. "Toror'" Shea spoke and when the specter turned to look at them they all saw its face. It was not Jinnalt, not in full. It took on a many faced form.

Victor went to step forward but Shea lay her hand on his arm. "It can not harm us. It is but a warning."

The specter floated up and around the grouping as it passed each person the face changed. To an old foe or to that which they feared most. But these were long hardened warriors, not so easily shaken.

The specter then floated away then.

Shea looked out across the graves. Nothing else stirred there.

"A warning of what is to come?" Jade asked and Shea turned to nod at her. "The night is drawn to an end. We will remember this, but not let it stop us, nor haunt us."

She smiled when Victor took her hand.

"Let us all retire within, say our good nights, then in the dawns light we can begin to speak of what is coming."Salice offered and there was a nod all about.

The group moved away from the graves. A touch colder.