A solemn nod. His eyes dropped to look at the symbol around her neck. So much had happened. How could he possibly deny helping her feel more at home in his world? "We will see what can be done. Speaking of our younger son, was it difficult for him to get to sleep again tonight?"

"A little. Have I said that he has your curiosity?" A warm grin and wink. It was definitely a repeated phrase. She spread her senses out for a brief moment, "He is sleeping now though, and that is better than no nap at all."

"Curiosity can be a dangerous thing. But at least he has your talent to help him. I do wonder sometimes just how much grey hair I am going to gain if he has my curiosity and your talents during the adolescent years. Shall we ship him off to your father?" He teased and one hand went to pat fingers against her ribs in a tickle.

She giggled and squirmed on his lap, "Maybe, if it means saving the hair color that I love dearly. Though I am sure Avery will exhaust you to no end. I dare say that there may be no hope for you, beloved."

Affects a pathetic sigh, shoulders slumping. "Well, I never thought I would live to see grey hair, so maybe it is all for the best." And he kissed the tip of her nose.

"Well, I suppose a wife and children would change some things, yes? Who knows, perhaps I will be the cause of some premature aging. Though I will surely blame the children." Her cheek tilted to rest against his shoulder.

"Oh, quite the contrary, beloved. You keep me very much alive." He knew it deep down inside that she had softened him without corrupting who he was, accepted him, and for that he owed her so much. "Then tomorrow when we return home, we will put some thoughts to the plan and in a few days time Kiema should be able to join us. While it is good to get away for a few days, there are things to tend to for both of us in Rhydin."

A slight frown, "If we ever find a way for me to come and go to the Air Realm from your homeworld, even if it is not for the next many years, would you consider making Yransea our permanent home?"

The words entered his ears and he heard and understood them, but still he felt as though she had spoken another language. "Do you think that would be wise? Kellan and whomever follows after him would be -" he was not quite comfortable saying it, so he amended, "They may have difficulty finding friends outside of these walls."

"They may." It was a valid point and she nodding in understanding. Her children's well-being was and would be on the top of her priorities, "But they would also have family nearby, something that they do not have in Rhydin." A small shrug and she glanced away, "I was just curious to your thoughts."

"That is also a good point. Family or friends and a society that welcomes and understands them. Perhaps we should move to the Elemental realm where they would have both."

A small, sad smile, "And take you away from your duties here? I could never." And it was true, despite her mixed feelings over how strong his devotions were to Yransea over anything else. She couldn't imagine any sense of usefulness for him without it.

"Yes, it would only mean more separation for us." He nodded. A hand lifted to caress her hair, fingers playing among the kinks and curls. The feeling of her hair against his fingertips a soothing counterpart to the usual rough pommels of weaponry. "I could learn to use the roads, but that still would mean days without me with you and the family. Though it could prove the same the other way around with your duties in the Elemental realm. We come around to the same thing, and the crux of the matter being can we make it so you can reach your people with greater ease."

She closed her eyes with the comfort of his fingers through her hair and sighed quietly. Worries seemed to glide away when he was near, "Yes. We will find a way, beloved. We have made it work so far, we can take our time and make sure we do this right."

A murmuring sound of agreement, and a nod. There would be obstacles, some that he could not see a way around, but this was not his role. Kiema would be able to help, he hoped. There was something there. She had dealt with the restrictions of magic in Yransea too and other lands. Found ways to work without the power from the land. Perhaps in this, she could help. He had to trust to Storm and Kiema's talents that there was a resolution that would renew and reassure Storm's delight in their Yransea visits. For the moment, however, he was content to hold her and think on nothing more than the solace and pleasure in her nearness.

A slow nod, "But that would benefit our people; to learn how to use our gifts in an environment like Palendies. And truly, I have only tried my gifts in Yransea. It is possible not all of Paldendies is that way."

Quirked brow, he was tempted to state and absolute. In fact his mouth opened to do so, and instead he hedged. "I have not heard of a place that was not, but Kiema would likely know better than I." He shifted, drawing one knee up to support an arm, fingers played with a blade of grass. "Other than learning to use your gifts, what would you wish of Palendies in return?"

"I would have to discuss that with other Guardians." Her lips twisted slightly, "Which poses another question of who is allowed through the portal. I alone could not purify the elements in a timely manner." She watched his hands toy with the grass, before continuing, "I am not sure if there is much the community would want or need from Palendies. I could see more benefits for the Guardians and our warriors."
There was a twitch in his shoulder at the mention of warriors. "I am not sure entire groups of Elemental warriors would be looked upon too graciously by the crown. Are there to be restrictions set upon them and what are the repercussions if they do not follow those?" It was as if the matter, so simple and exciting and wondrous in its basic concept were an onion of layered complexity. "That will bring in the legal contraptions, which my best knowledge of is only how to avoid them."

"I think it would be best to only allow Guardians to pass through the portal, in the beginning. Of course, still we will have to draw a series of consequences that satisfies everyone." A hand reached out to still his, and she smiled softly.

His hand instantly stilled under her touch. The smile disrupted the riptide of thoughts threatening to drag him under. A smile of his own mirrored back to her. "Perhaps it would be best if I left the political dealings to politicians." He reached to the leftover grapes, plucked two and gave one over to Storm and the second for himself.

"Perhaps." Smiling at the offered grape, she ate it before continuing, "But your input is valuable. After all, you are in service to the King. You are someone that should be convinced of my proposal first." A twitch of a grin, "Assuming you can hold your bias, that is."

A low, brief laugh at her teasing him. "I will not deny it is difficult. Afterall, if it were not you, I would not even consider it. Not for a moment. So, I think we should allow some of my bias."

A slight raise of her brow, "Not at all? Why is that?" She didn't even give him enough time to begin a response before continuing, "Are there truly such adverse feelings towards the gifted?"

He hesitated. There were things he knew, things he could say that would take up hours of their day, but it all came down to one truth. "Yes." He looked away over the grounds that surrounded them. That here - like Rhydin - what was seen was not always what it seemed. It was a thought he fought with slow breaths before he looked back to her and simply said again. "Yes."

Her smile was slightly sad as she glanced down at the grass. It was so foreign to her. As far as she was concerned, her kind helped offer the fruitful lives that his people led. "Do you ever think that perhaps there are gifted people in Palendies? Perhaps they do not know, or can not practice for the same reason my people could not."

He cleared his throat, the memories crashing up into his thoughts. "There are those who are gifted and refuse or cannot get to the Circelus. They are called Wildings. They go mad. The Circelus deal with them when they find them." His words quickened with the swift shift of thoughts. "It is for the best."

The walk to Yearling Brook no longer seemed like quite a journey with the new home being further north, but Storm still enjoyed following the same path. It brought years of memories, each one different and unique, but still the path remained the same. A gentle breeze and warm sun brought forward the more fond memories and banished the others.

Despite Kiema's more cheerful disposition, Storm tended to turn to her during times of trouble or thought. This would be no different. Still, her smile was pleasant as she past the guards before approaching the grounds.

The weather had proved enticing that day. With her auburn hair pulled back in a simple tie, there were no shadows to hide the calm sea blue eyes. Her garments were of a more rustic nature than usual travel or performance gowns. She had been taking some time in the orchard and it was to there that the guards directed Storm. It was too early for harvest, but not for blossoms among the fruit trees. Her fingers traced the mystery of the petals.

The orchard brought a warm smile to her face and she had the sudden urge to ask Ewan to join her there later. Instead her eyes focused on the woman waiting for her, "Kiema." There was no pause in offering the woman a hug, "Wonderful to see you again."

The hug freely received and returned. "Storm, you are looking very well. How are your boys? The grown and the not so?" A grace note of green crept along the rims of the irises.

"They are all very well, thank you. Avery asks about you from time to time. I'm afraid Kellan would have a more difficult time putting a name to a face." Her smile turned teasing, "And Ewan is.. well, Ewan."

The laugh a few notes of water tripping over rocks. "Hmm, yes. And were he any other, we would not know what to do. He is as he must be. As we all are. Except, I gather, you are not able to be as much yourself as you would like when in Yransea." She gestured to the remainder of a log, worn smooth on the top where it had seen many people sit. It had taken up residence as bench at the end of the orchard closer to the woods.

"Well," she moved to sit upon the edge of the makeshift bench, "it is not so much of being who I am in Yransea. The lack of communication with my people makes my job more difficult and it keeps us... or rather me, from staying in Yransea for long visits. We have been discussing perhaps creating a portal between his world and mine."

Sympathetic to the difficulty, she nodded and with the singular roll of a few fingers, encouraged Storm to speak more of her desires, ideas, and concerns.

Her hands went together, though her fingers twitched and fidgeted. "We need something to present to the King, since building a portal on my own would cause serious problems. Ewan and I have been trying to decide where the best place to build it would be, what benefits we could present... Ewan had also mentioned.. wildings?" A look up to Kiema, "He said you would be a better person to discuss this with."

There was no compulsion to restrain her feelings. The mention of the Wildlings dimmed the blue eyes dark into brown. "The world you visit is not like others you have likely known. Magic, for lack of a universal term, is a resource not unlike coal, cotton, or silk. Some countries have it and others do not. Palendies does not. To alter the nature of yourself, others, the world around you, it all must come from within. Wildings are those of magical gifts who are born in a land without their basic needs met. They grow up always thirsty for what they do not know." Kiema drew in a slow breath. There would never be a time when she did not remember that first day. "You need to build a bridge between your world and ours, then you must do so where the world will provide you the resource."

It was a very complex response. Storm didn't hide her frown, "I am afraid I do not understand. These Wildlings.. they cannot be taught how to reach their gift from within?"

The cacophony of feelings produced an out of tune smile. "If we find them young enough, then yes. We can move them to another land. Let them drink, if you will allow the continued metaphor, until they can learn how to drink from the shallow resource inside without draining themselves completely. There is a limit. It was why I had to be bound to my Master and another, and between the two of them, reached across the distance of miles to the Circelus in order for me to have enough resources against the Sedlaral. It was dangerous and...not been done before or since."

"What a mess." A deep sigh and one hand went through her hair, "I suppose it is different with my people, since they already know how to use their gifts outside of Yransea. But being able to learn in in Yransea where our gifts are naturally suppressed would be a great opportunity."

A mess. She had never truly thought of it that way, but taking the moment to think about it, she gave a begrudging nod. "I suppose it can be seen that way. For us, it is the way of nature. I have once tried to turn a Wildling back from the edge." Full weight of the words even in the softness of her voice. "That, however, is not something that you should worry over. None of your people will turn into Wildlings. You have experienced the weight of the change and how to limit your workings within the limits of your own personal resources. It would be interesting to see how that changes if you visited Anria." The smile given in full measure. "But that is not to this purpose. So, where would you establish this conduit?"

"Ewan and I were discussing the current portal linked to RhyDin. We would not be adding another portal that way, and it would be off of the main land. Perhaps creating a small island there, to establish order and the coming and goings of others, if that would even be permitted."

The smile turned sly. Green mixed liberally with blue in her eyes. "Oh, very clever. Very clever, indeed. It is just within the established sea rights of Palendies, but on the very edge of it. It will certainly make negotiations easier. And, if you tap into the natural arcane resource of that portal, you won't have to power it all entirely yourselves." Kiema paused a moment. "And I think I know what else you can offer to the parlay table when it comes to it."

"The portal connection was Ewan's idea. I know that he will be just as strict as the King, if not more." Rubbing her hands over her knees briefly, she rose a brow at the ending comment, "Oh? And what do you have in mind?"

Kiema leaned forward a little. The orchard was empty, but it had been years since she had the opportunity to conspire with someone. "Let us hope they don't call on my to mediate, because I will have to deny it by giving over this idea. What is the one great worry always weighing upon Ewan in regards to Palendies?"

The question made her squirm a bit, "I am not sure I can come up with only one answer." Her eyes narrowed on Kiema slightly, "But clearly you have an idea."

"Protecting Palendies. What is the one place where an invasion could come without warning from a world superior in abilities than Palendies's world? At that portal. You could offer at least a first warning. Just that little more time. Ewan could not disagree with that, and it would be a great boon to the King Palendies."

Fingers drummed over her knees as she considered the words, "Not to mention that we would have the advantage with Water and Air Elementals over the portal entrance. We could easily keep others at bay until Palendies came."

Any meeting of the Guardians brought up memories of darker times. Surely they had met for more simple matters, when times were not difficult, but Storm mostly remembered strategies against the Chaotics, and times of swift and certain action. It made her mood pensive, and it was habit to look across the way to where Jeremiah would sit. Of course he was there no longer, and the pain ached deep and dull. Time may make the pain ease, but it would never go away. Instead in his chair now sat Regina, a tall and willowy woman that betrayed her element of the mountains. Storm had not personally seen the woman use her gift, but she trusted the judgment of the other Earth Guardians.

Storm idly curled a corner of her parchment as the meeting droned on with necessities: what each realm needed, who was doing what, and basic arrangements that were made at least once a year. It was better this way, with the gathering not solely focused on Storm and her proposal for Palendies. When talking to Ewan, there was so much confidence that her people would easily support her, but now when she sat amongst them, the certainty was gone. It was too late now however to worry about it ? she had to try something.

When the silence grew and Storm came to from her thoughts, most of the eyes were upon her. Clearing her throat briefly, she glanced down to her parchment, ?As most of you are aware, for the past several years I have spent time in Yransea, Palendies, a place that naturally suppresses any manipulation of gifts or magic of any kind. Roughly six months ago I discovered that manipulation of the elements is possible if the source of the element is from within, and not from external sources. This is not a practice that most Elementals are aware of, or proficient in. We know of many places similar to Palendies, in that our gifts are suppressed, and if we are able to learn how to control and use our gifts in Palendies, then it will open up many more opportunities for us.?

?I intend to make a proposal to the King to allow a selected few of us to reside in the area, and allow us to learn how to use our gifts in a safe environment. There is already a portal in the sea that we can attach our own to, and we can offer to create our own land so that we take up no natural space for the native people.? Storm?s lips quirked slightly before continuing, ?Here, we can create an embassy, training grounds, homes, and basic necessities for life. In exchange, we can offer Palendies trade, purification of their elements, and warning wards of any possible intruders through the portal. Negotiations with the King may provide for other exchanges to take place.?

With a deep breath, Storm set aside the parchment, ?Of course, this requires the full support of the Guardians, as well as other Elementals to relocate to the embassy once it is complete. If we consider mixed families, and people that would benefit from living outside the realms, it will not require much loss from our own resources.? She moved her gaze to each and every Guardian present and stilled her anxiety for the questions to come.

The ropes and sails of the Yran Lark shifted in the breeze. She was making ten knots and the smile of the pilot to the captain, they were straight on course. The sun was sinking to the starboard side and in the crossing not long off the sun would be then sinking to port side.

The men of the ship kept their distance from the guests. None spoke their suspicions or concerns to be heard. They went about their work. Ewan was at the port side railing, arms crossed on the top rail as he looked to the bow in anticipation of the shivering to come.

The Guardians handled the new people and atmosphere differently. Andrew would share sailing tales to anyone who would listen, which mostly meant Shawn. He pointed at the water, the different animals that could hardly be seen, and even though that couldn't be. Shawn was paying more attention to the people on the board, gauging if their avoidance would reflect what was to come. Still, he remained polite and mostly silent.

Rukiya however, could find no place on the boat for comfort. It took several attempts on Storm's part to keep her stowed away and away from the sight of the water. At least Rukiya did everything in her power to keep her anxiety to herself. Storm understood her discomfort perfectly.

Convinced that the other Guardians were as comfortable as could be expected, Storm finally emerged onto the deck, and turned to start towards Ewan, "Everything seems to be going well, I think." Her voice was quiet enough for their ears only.

He turned his eyes to her, the smile a had a shadow of amusement in its tightness. "I am glad to hear it. Your man of the waters seems to be softening the distress of the cabin boys and runners. I fear what will come. More than twenty minutes and they will first experience what you have come to know so very well. What then, I wonder?" He looked back to the sea. "What then?"

"I do not know." A soft sigh as she glanced down at the waters, and then across the boat to Andrew and Shawn, "I feel as though I have done everything in my power to prepare them. It is a risk they are willing to experience. There is nothing else to do."

Ewan nodded. "I cannot deny them courage. I will do what I can to help them, what little it may be. And how fair the children?" He smiled to her again and stood from his lean. He shifted his weight easily with the shifting of the ship.

"They are keeping Rukiya company. I think she will feel better once we pass. Her discomfort would only come from habit, and not the natural discord she feels now." She drummed her fingers on the rail, "I wish that there was a way I could have taught them to access their gifts within sooner. But, I suppose this will be a good test. A good way to see how the rest of the Guardians would feel."

"You cannot expect an entire reversal of their way of being so soon, beloved." His fingers brushed at her cheek just a moment. "Time as you have had. And they will have plenty of it on the road. Ah, I think we come to it." He had just felt the beginning tremors of the timbers.

"No, a reversal was not what I was expecting. It would just be reassuring for them to know that their gift is truly not gone entirely." As soon as they approached the portal, Storm could feel it to - the sensation of restriction and of absence. She turned to face the other Guardians on the deck, and knew that they could feel it too. And then the passing was over, and the Guardian's conversation fell silent. Storm nodded in their direction, "I suppose now would be a good time to keep them company, yes?"

"Yes, likely so." He gave a quick glance over the decks and then offered his arm to her to escort her back to the Elemental contingency.

Taking that offered arm, her smile was simple but conveyed so much; her appreciation, her thankfulness, but mostly her love. It wasn't until she reached the Guardians staring out on the other side of the waters that she spoke, "Anywhere near here we could create the island. Something close to the portal to make traveling more easy."

"And far, yes?" Shawn turned his head over his shoulder to glance at Ewan, "We are still a-ways from shore?"

Andrew rubbed a hand over his chest briefly, feeling the dull ache when he tried to find out that answer for himself and could not.

A quick nod, Storm glanced around for an idea as to a small-scale demonstration that wouldn't attract a lot of attention either. Carefully, she removed the precious amulet and chain from around her neck, and held it out a safe distance away from the small crowd, noticing that she was getting Avery and Andrew's attention as well. It was easier now, to touch upon the gift within her middle and guide it up to her hand. With the familiar glow in her eyes, small black bolts of lightning hugged around the platinum piece and held a distinct buzzing sound.

"Visible and black." Shawn raised a brow before frowning, "Can you change that?"

"I have not tried. It is the same as the first time." When Kellan had a curious gleam in his eye and he reached out, Storm instantly brought the bolts back into her hand and out of sight, despite his safe distance.

Ewan looked to each of the Guardians, the way they reacted to such news and the demonstration. The sailors on deck were the night crew, which were fewer and intent on their duties. Well, except the one or two with the curiosity that brought them to the sea and peered at the group gathered, gawping when they caught what they thought they saw which was Acantha's fire on an amulet.

Rukiya seemed to relax and almost visibly brighten under her copper skin, "Perfect. If you can do it, than certainly the rest of us will be able to also." Personality restored as well, she still didn't look over the edge of the railing to see the water underneath. Instead she turned Kellan closer to her front so that she could dip his upper body upside down to make him laugh.

Rukiya's confidence eased some of Andrew's concern as well. However it didn't stop him from stepping in the wrong spot and receive taunting from Avery about losing the game.

While Storm was putting the chain back on around her neck, Shawn was still watching those on deck, "Ewan, I know from what Storm has told me that your concerns over Palendies are great. But let me ask you," his eyes turned to the other man, "do you have concerns about hostility towards the Elementals?"

Ewan found the relaxation interesting, and attributed it to their entire life philosophy. Some could handle change well and others could not, but it seemed this contingency was well prepared, and for that he must credit the skill of his wife. He would praise her later. At the moment, he had a question, a grim one, to answer. "Not so greatly in Seansloe as other places, but for the most part as long as you do not use your gifts, I doubt the people would know any differently. Kiema, a friend of mine and what we call a Changeling, is able to walk among the people here as long as she conceals who she is." He grimaced. It was the truth, but the very idea someone had to "conceal" who they truly are he understood few took such things lightly. For him, it was part of who he was, that concealment. For others, it was as if they had to be ashamed of it. "If it comes to a point where you are threatened, I must ask that you leave it to the authorities here. To react with your gifts, even in self defense, would only be turned against you -- unless at the last possible option. I do not think it should come to such things."

Storm could feel the tension in the air from that answer, but knew that was not Ewan's fault. It was the truest statement that could be offered. Storm watched Rukiya's face grimace and stepped forward and reached her hands out before any words could come out, "I think it is time to lay Kellan down."

"I will do it." A deft turn as Rukiya headed back down to the rooms once more.

"Adjustment takes time. Some more than others." A faint whisper of a grin, Shawn moved from his lean and gave Ewan a nod, "I appreciate the honesty in your answers. Excuse me." He was next to follow in Rukiya's path.

Ewan gave a solemn nod. Hedging words with them was not his place at the moment. That would all change when they met with the King. His counsel would be withdrawn and to waste time couching words would serve them none at all. He trusted in their abilities to reason things through as leaders of a people -- no matter how powerful. Ewan looked to Storm, because it was there, and only there, he needed reassurance and understanding.

"I do not think I could ask more of them." A faint smile to Ewan before Storm looked over the railing and down to the dark waters, "I have had years and ulterior motivation to accept what I know of Palendies. They have neither of those. It will just take time."

Ewan nodded and set and arm about her shoulders. "And they need not understand it in truth, but they need to respect it. This world is not a place to be saved and enlightened. We will," he breathed in a long breath, "get there someday on our own."

"Of course." A slight bow of her head before she leaned against him, "It is never our way to change the society we work in. Those comments of mine," a twitch of a grin to the corner of her lips, "and do not represent my people."

Ewan kissed the top of her head and then rested his cheek there as the night went from twilight into a star spray of darkness.

The Guardians did well traveling together. It was a silent system of following directions, and sharing work for camp when needed. It wasn't until they went off of their own to test the use of their powers that their true feelings surfaced. No matter how Storm tried to demonstrate and guide, Shawn was the only one that seemed to make any progress.

It was hunger and disappointment that led the Guardians away from their temporary practice grounds and back to the inn that they had stopped at for the evening. Storm hoped that the short walk would help clear everyone's feelings, but could already tell that it would only diminish them slightly. Rukiya was frustrated, shown by the several different ways she 'hmphed' and folded her arms as they walked. At least Rukiya didn't give her anger any particular direction, and for that, Storm could handle.
Andrew looked tired, and if Storm looked closer, maybe sad. However a neutral face he was able to muster, and Storm knew that his feelings would settle much sooner than the Fire's.

Shawn, the only one that showed any bit of progress, looked the same and remained his quiet self. He was the first to reach the creaking steps and open the door for everyone.

The patron area was neither busy nor empty, but to Storm it felt quiet, though unsure if it always was or was now due to their entrance.

Ewan had chosen a table, as was his custom, that gave him a good view out of a window but did not restrict his view of the inn common's either. The innkeep, also tending the tavern at that hour, was well known to him, but that did not make them friendly. Ewan's companions on that journey had not helped. The innkeep was civil, but curt. He took their coin, gave them service, but there was no imagining there was a smile in it.

In any other time, Ewan would not have paid it mind. But the other inn occupants would be directed by his manner, and from the looks on some of the Guardians' faces as they returned, Ewan wondered just what kind of evening it was going to be.

Storm tried not to smirk as a few steps inside revealed the lack of civility in the place. Instead she tugged on the bottom of her shirt and walked over to Ewan's table. The rest of the Guardians followed and sat without difference to their features, but only Shawn offered a polite smile to Ewan.
Storm's look and lack of explanation to Ewan was probably more than enough cues for Ewan to guess on the progress of their work. Instead she asked, "Have you ate yet?"

"Not as yet. The others are seeing to the horses in the stables once more and situating the gear in the rooms graciously set aside for us. Shall I order a communal meal or are there delicate palates to consider?"

"No, communal is fine." There was a hint of tease in her smile, "I think the exercise makes us quite hungry."

"There wasn't any practicing." Rukiya muttered under her breath, but the look from Storm had her taking a deep breath and crossing her arms.

There was an inkling to irk the innkeep by hollering across the room, but instead Ewan stood and went to make the meal request at the bar with all due respect and deference. The two other guards, volunteers from the warband, came in just at that time and took seats at the table nearby, not out of rudeness, but from the sheer fact of room. They were not portly, but any person would be pressed to call them willow branches. The two guards gave their nods to the ambassadors before they sat.

Ewan returned to take his own seat. "It will be a moment, but a serving girl should be along soon to take your drink requests while we wait. This is a fine inn. We frequent it often." There is a smile there, that shares his own humor in the fact the attendance to them isn't better for that frequency.

"Indeed." Shawn nodded to guards that sat nearby, though his attention turned towards the innkeep with feigned interest.

Andrew rested his forearms on the table, and tried to release his more negative feelings, "A dry and warm place makes this place distinct for most." A cheeky grin at his 'dry' comment, "When we travel, it is not uncommon to be less comfortable than we are now."

Ewan slid Storm a look. Within it was the fact he was withholding a comment he would share later. Goading the disappointed Guardians was going to do no one any good. "Well, you will find the food palatable as well, the rooms clean, if not opulent." The serving girl arrived. Timid would be the best way to describe her, but with some courage by judging the looks of the two other serving girls who watched cautiously. She waited to hear the orders of drinks, fingers twisting in the apron.

The Guardians ordered water out of simplicity than desire, except for Rukiya, who ordered hot tea despite the warmer weather. Storm watched the other serving girls, before studying their group more closely. It wasn't difficult to see why they were out of place. Their skin tones had unusual metallic undertones that no human would have. And how many gifted people traveled out this far? Probably very few.

"Is this one of the only inns that is used for travelers in these parts?" Storm wasn't trying to suggest that she wanted to leave this place, but it was curious to think if the patrons around were mostly traveling folks as well.

"It is one of a few." Ewan looked to her, and then nodded believing he knew the purpose of her question. "There is no town nearby. Lack of a good water source able to support a populace. But this inn is a waystation for the area and we are not," he grinned, "on the main road between King's City and Seansloe. It was deemed unwise."

"Poor water supply?" A glance over to Andrew, as if to say "remember that" before nodding, "Yes, I suppose that would be unwise."

When the serving girl returned with the drinks, whatever quiet words were being exchanged with the other girls seemed to sap some of that courage away. When placing Rukiya's steaming tea before her, unsteady hands caused the full mug to spill some over and into the Fire's lap. It wasn't much, but the girl turned red and started to mutter an apology, "Terribly sorry!"

Rukiya jumped in her seat, the season of her skin able to feel the burn disbelieving, and pain that was deeper than the physical infliction was etched on her face, "Mercies!"


"Rukiya," concern and a warning laced in Storm's tone as she gently took hold of one of Rukiya's wrists, "It was just an accident." She smiled slightly and tried to ease the serving girl, but activity from the corner of her eye made her leery.

Ewan stood with great care. It lacked any predatory feeling. He smiled to the serving girl and took the remaining drinks. "Slip of the fingers. It happens to us all. I will see to the rest of these. I think the meal is ready." And the girl skittered away, high flush and tears in the corners of her eyes.

It was a quick service of the drinks, but mostly Ewan wanted to be standing. It gave the people someone else to look at, focus on, and think about while he hoped the situation would diffuse.

Shawn and Andrew watched Ewan carefully, while Storm tried to calm Rukiya down, "It is nothing. Your face probably scared her to pieces." Storm tried to make light of it, while Rukiya hissed through her teeth, "It stings!"

"Well, that is what happens." Storm kept her voice low, "Relax. We will take care it later. But you need to help calm the girl down or else we might receive unwanted treatment."

"Perhaps you two would care to retreat to one of the rooms to change attire?" And it would give Rukiya a place to experience and deal with the unexpected feeling.

"Yes." Storm didn't wait to see if Rukiya would agree or not before standing and nodding down one of the halls. At least she didn't have to grab Rukiya's hand and lead the way.

Andrew relaxed slightly when the two women were gone and out of sight, "I hope that was the worst of it." A quiet sentence as he took a long drink from his water. When the food came out, the two other serving girls were out and the previous one was no where to be seen.

"There are things yet to come, I am sure. So far we have been mostly observed," Ewan nodded to the serving girls with a smile and then began to plate out the food, a common enough stew but made with good meats and vegetables and a measurable amount of spices. It was good, simple fare. It was not the greatest thing ever. The bread sat nearby for those who wanted it. A plate with a cake of butter on it next to it. "The two men in the corner muttering together and with likely red faced from too much drink are my primary concern." Though Ewan did not look at them.

The room had been a main keep in ages past. It once held threshings and packs of dogs snarled over bones discarded from tables of rowdy soldiers, home from battles. That was centuries ago. A larger grander hall held the festivities and formal events of the King's court. Corridors and rooms had been built up around this room, tucking it off to the side and regulating its purpose to formal meetings of the King and council without the trappings of court.

Stones were irregular but soundly put together. Tapestries hung at hand's height. The large fire place along the wall was filled with herbs not fire. What once were high windows into the outer world were shut up with new stones, not so worn or so aged, but old enough in their darkening greys and browns.

King Maelgwn sat in a chair, largely unadorned except its back reached higher than others, a low single stepped dais. His council, five in all, stretched three to his right and two to his left. Tables before them held drinking goblets and pitchers of wine were at the ready by servants tucked into corners, keeping vigilant of commands to refill cups.

Likewise a table sat directly across from the king, separated by seven strides of a tall person and its chairs were empty, waiting, and comfortable in their simple upholstered seats of dark blue in oak wood framing and legs. The King did not stand, but his council did. And just to His Majesty?s back left, with his formal attire and his blades -- the only bladed man -- was Ewan.

Storm and the other Guardians spent their time quietly together, trying to pull together their remaining ideas and consider the best plan of action before their meeting. Storm felt nervous in an unfamiliar place and with a large portion of her future at stake. Her fellow Guardians did not feel the same pressure.

With Storm in the lead, the four filed a small line into the meeting room, each adorned in their robes that represented each element and symbol. Dressed in their own clothing, it seemed to buff and shine the physical differences of their elementalism.

"Your Majesty," each Guardian gave a humble bow, and Storm made introductions as each person sat down, "this is Andrew Guardian of the Lakes, Rukiya Guardian of Conflagration, Shawn Guardian of Botany, and I am Storm, Guardian of the Sky. We are a small representation of Elemental leadership." With that, she took her seat, and quietly smoothed down the small stack of parchment she had brought with her.

King Maelgwn bowed his head to each at the introduction; it was a slight inclination keeping from subservience, but not without respect. When each of the Ambassadors had taken their seat, the council did as well. "Lords and Ladies of the Elementals, We welcome you to our land and our city. We are honored you have traveled so far and under such circumstances to meet with Us." It was there in the care with which he looked to each of them. He understood their journey was not what they would have considered their most pleasant.

The man to King Maelgwn?s immediate right, a not uncomely looking man with all the age of wrinkles about pale blue eyes and the wisps of curling white hair around his head like fog, spoke. "We look forward to discussions and trade with your people, and hope we may find an equitable situation for all. May I introduce His Majesty's council. I am Duke Owen Pemsson, first council. To my right are my colleagues, Lord Parry Hywel, and Sir Yestin Sayers, who sits on this council in his wife's stead while she is unwell. To His Majesty's left, Lord Gannon Rhysson, and Lord Ivar Pembroke.

Each man inclined his head as his name was called, more deferential to the ambassadors. Lord Rhysson spoke with a smile. "I believe you have had the opportunity to meet my son, Lord Keefe Gannonsson, current protectorate of Yransea." It was a friendly opening overture, the council all reserved but warm smiles. Ewan was as a shadow, no movements but his eyes and these sometimes crossed over Storm, but he made no indication.

Each Guardian was attentive to the introductions, trying to make what little connections they could. Storm was trying not to pay too much attention to the King, but this was the only opportunity she could actually see him in a close proximity. Her eyes didn't look over to Ewan, but she wondered how their relationship was, but Storm knew that it wouldn't matter.
A hint of a smile appeared, before it grew and Storm inclined her head, "Yes, I have had the pleasure to share company with Lord Keefe on a few occasions." Storm wasn't sure if a first-name basis was acceptable, but instead of dwelling on it, she glanced down at her notes.

"The Elementals are interested in building an agreement with Palendies. The unique atmosphere that naturally suppresses our nature is something that we have rarely encountered. It would be a great benefit for us to study Palendies, and learn how to use our gifts in a safe environment. Ultimately, we would wish to create our own residing place off of the shore of Yransea, near the portal that is connected to Rhydin. We would wish to add to that portal to make our travelings easier. In exchange for this residing area, we offer trade goods that are unique to our people. Also, we offer our services as Elementals to help purify your elements, such as stubborn farming areas or fouled wells."

"There is always something new to learn, and young adults that will need to learn these new ways." Andrew finally took a turn to speak up, "I believe there are future agreements to look into. We have several families of mixed blood. Those children have different needs that can perhaps be met on our island. However, we do not see purification as a task that requires something in return. We do this everywhere we go. It is part of our existence."

Pembroke grumbled and shifted his seat. Maelgwn pointedly ignored him which was an invitation for the Ambassadors to do likewise. The other members of his council kept quiet, with passive restrained smiles and thoughtful nods. Most were more than willing to hear things out, and none folded their arms or barred their manner from being engaged by the shimmering people across from them. It was, perhaps, a curious thing to those who ruled democratically to have one man as the complete authority.

Maelgwn focused on Shawn for a long moment, then to Andrew when he said. "There are many details in this to question and consider, not the least of which, is honorable absolving of the agreement. I have a suggestion," his eyes swept away from Andrew and touched upon each of the Ambassadors as he offered. "We would like to learn more about your people before we can make a reasoned and informed decision. For the next two days, though remarkable small time to learn so much of an impressive people such as yourselves, let us share each others company. Talk of things other than this treaty. In the end of that time, we will meet again, see if our concerns remain the same or no."

Storm glanced over to her companions, but their agreement was easy read. "We believe this is a fair idea. I have had the pleasure to interact with people of Palendies for years now. You should have the time to know that we are a capable match for your people."

"Lady Storm, other than you marrying Master Corinsson, you seem a lady of impeccable sense." It was the first true jest of the meeting and spoken as Maelgwn rose and his council did likewise. "I hope you all will be able to join us in welcoming you all at a ball tonight." He went to offer his arm to Storm and escort her from the room. "The gossips of the court are all buzzing madly already."

Storm was not very familiar with the upper structure of Palendies, but she knew well enough to grin and take the offered arm, "I suppose my wits cannot be about me all of the time." Once again her eyes didn't slide over to Ewan, but her grin to Maelgwn made it clear whom she was talking about, "I am not one to enjoy the spotlight, but I have enough confidence to say that I am rather light on my feet."

"Ah, what a treat. Did you hear that, Pembroke? The lady made a jab at our good Ewan. You should like that." Maelgwn cast over his shoulder then winked to Storm. "Then I will hope for the first dance of the evening, and then you will be free to slip out of the spotlight again early on. Now," he paused as they came to a crossroads of the hallways, "I fear I must go meet with others to settle matters of the country. I look forward to see you all this evening. Master Corinsson, your attendance to me for now is done. See to our guests."

Ewan bowed formally as the council swept by and Maelgwn turned without permission or acceptance of his announcement. "Yes, Your Majesty." When the King and council were gone, Ewan turned to the Ambassadors and to Storm last of all. "To where should I escort you?"

"It would be my pleasure." Storm's smile remained in place until every last person on the council was out of sight. It didn't exactly fall, but her face settled to a more usual tone. When Ewan addressed the Guardians, they looked amongst each other momentarily, while Storm busied herself with taking the small stack of papers from Shawn's arms and making them neat.

"I think some debriefing time would be good." Shawn glanced down to Storm, "after some time to think. I suppose our rooms would be best."

"Of course," Ewan bowed to them and began to lead them to their series of rooms. He glanced to Storm, trying to read how she felt about what he had said, but in front of the others in their party, he did no more than that.

Storm was feeling her nerves finally break and calm down now that the meeting was over, and keeping herself composed took more effort than usual. She looked tired, but not forlorn or discouraged. It was a look that was shared amongst the Guardians.

When they finally reached their rooms, Shawn leaned against his doorknob, "Let's meet in the courtyard in say, two hours or so?" With bobbing heads, the three retreated to their rooms.

"They are rather beautiful, yes?" Storm came up behind Andrew to join him in looking over the blossoming orchards. Their colors were bright and vibrant with the attention from the sun and proper watering treatment.

"They are." Andrew clasped his hands behind his back and looked over to Storm, "You just missed Shawn. I do not think he is will to admit how much the gardens bother him."

Maelgwn had escaped his entourage, the hangers on, the council members, and had just seen out a window the Ambassadors walking the gardens. It was, so he surmised, an opportune time to simply speak with the people. He was without crown or cloak of state, dressed for a simple day of routine. As he walked the gardens, he called out to warn them of his approach (little did he know they likely knew of it already). "Good day to you both."

Storm was already glancing over her shoulder before Maelgwn called out and offered a warm smile, "Good day, your Majesty." She moved to the side and shifted her stance to welcome him in their viewing position. Andrew did the same, his smile polite with a hint of warmth, "We were just admiring your gardens. They are quite delightful."
"Thank you. I escape to them when I am afforded the chance. The gardeners do their best." A mild hint, a curious tilt of his head. "I thought I saw another of your party through the window."

"Shawn retired to his room for a spell, but he also was taken with your plants."

Storm nodded and further explained, "Shawn has his gifts in botany. He has some marvelous blooms that I had never seen before."

Maelgwn's smile was pinched with reserved amusement. "No doubt he has. A gift I admire, though I lack the talent myself. Though," he laughed, "I suppose one could say I lack all such talents. Is that what each of you does for your daily hobbies? Something that exercises your natural talents all the more?"

"Some to most, yes." Andrew glanced over the orchards again for a moment, "I enjoying sailing because I can feel the water part for the boat. Rarely do I change the current or winds, instead I seek the best path and follow it. But I have enjoyed my time on ships here as well, where I cannot feel those sort of things."

Storm tried to think of her hobbies, and found that most of them included her family. Still she offered her input, "Most Airs spend their time outside where they can see the sky and feel a breeze. Some Fires are gifted with sand glass."

"Hmm," he nodded, hands clasping behind his back as he began to walk the gardens. Perhaps it was a conceit, or just the natural inclination of many years in a court, but he merely assumed they would join him in the stroll. "You mentioned something of blended families -- I gather you meant like yours, Lady Storm. Are there many of these?"

"Yes." A brief glance shared with each other, Andrew and Storm took to walking on either side of Maelgwn, "We are not very many in numbers, but I would say that those of mixed blood add an additional quarter to our numbers?" Storm glanced over to Andrew to see if she was somewhat correct, and he nodded.

"And your people have no issues with these families? There is no disdain for those who are less than they are and could, possibly do, also diminish their numbers bearing children who are just human or whatever race?" He looked up at the sky when he asked the question. There was no mistake he was listening keenly to their words, but also the tone of the voice, hesitations, carefulness in response -- it all meant something.

"There was a time before when it was thought that Elementals could not mix with other races. It was not until Elementals start to breach their own realms and work with other creation that blood was mixed. It would be unwise to assume that during those first early times, there were many mixed feelings towards mixed Elementals, most of curiosity and distrust. However, I think over time and with Elementals choosing their own living locations, this has become integrated into our society; though I know that there are those that are proud of their pure bloodlines." Storm offered a single shoulder shrug, "We like humans or most races, are still individuals within a working society."

Andrew also added, "Also, not all Elementals are born in the way humans are; conceived, that is. Some are born out of the elemental they are. I have parents that conceived me, but Storm's father was not a part in her creation to existence."

Rukiya had a hard time telling which room was which. Her tour wasn't long enough, and her attention span wasn't keen enough the first time around. Usually she wasn't left alone to have to deal with finding her way around. However, now everyone had found a place to spend their waiting time - except for her. So she wandered around until she found something of comfort; a fireplace. It might have been a library with all the books, or a parlor with all the comfy couches gathered around. However she walked past those and sat on the edge of the fireplace. It was black and empty and the bricks were cold, but looking into a place that was comforting gave an echo of what she was looking for.

Lord Ivar Pembroke was determined. The Royal mind was not being persuaded as swiftly as he would like, and if he had to hunt all day and into the night and next day, well -- well, he had servants to help do that, but he was at least going to start the work. There had to be some old ancient code, tradition, something that would nip this catastrophe in the making in the bud. The library, just a nook where the Great Archives let the King place his borrowings, was as good a place to start as any. A nook in comparison to the Great Archives it might be, but it was still sufficiently stocked with worthy materials. He bustled in and straight to a shelf where he last saw the teachings of the Twelve placed.

With her peaceful solitude loudly disturbed, Rukiya turned and peered her head to see who had come to join her. Perhaps they were looking for her. However her hopes deflated slightly when her eyes recognized the man, "Good afternoon, Lord Pembroke."

Child caught reaching for a sweetmeat, that was what Pembroke looked like. He started, shoved the book back into place and then sputtered when he saw who it was. "Oh," he cleared his throat and reached for the book again, "Yes, yes, good afternoon Ambassador." He saw where she sat, looked at the empty fireplace, back to her, then back to the book and then all the books around. He frowned. "Rather ridiculous place to have a fireplace with these books around." The mumble heard well enough, but evidently his own council he was keeping. Of course, there was little choice in the matter as the fireplace did come first.

"Only if the fire is given too much fuel and gets out of hand. Otherwise I think it's the perfect place." She looked back into the empty fireplace, "Fire does more than warm the room. It raises spirits and adds comfort."

Pembroke frowned and searched the woman, holding up the book, "Have you been reading our works? You need not school me in the teachings of the Twelve. I take part in the first lightings at Winter Festival like others. Fire, however, has its place." A firm nod, he sniffed a little and felt quite secure in that statement.

Rukiya wrinkled her brow and nose briefly, "I haven't touched any books. I'll leave that for Shawn and Storm." She noticed his stern nod and shrugged it off with one shoulder, "Everything has it's place. That is nothing new."

"Ah, but your people wish to change that. This land has been going well enough, I thank you, and it works in a fine harmony for centuries and more now. I should think you, well, you look unhappy to be here as well. Why don't you convince your fellows this is not a wise choice?"

"Truly? Everything in your place is harmonious?" The slight curve of her smile told that Rukiya wouldn't believe that at all, "I would do no such thing. We can offer benefits that even a.. harmonious land, could use. We have been doing this for centuries, and we work in fine harmony where we go."

"You change things to suit your sense of right. You promise to purify our elements? Who are you to say these things are corrupted to begin?" His jaw slowly slid forward as his fingers gripped the shelf where he had place the book back once more. "Clean our streams, will you? Nature has determined that course, and a stream can be bracken choked for a reason. Forests burn and they come back richer and stronger than before. What then? Will you clean each stream, stop each fire? You to be the arbiters of what ruin comes our way and what does not?"

Rukiya watched him carefully, and her smile to him was sharp, "I believe you are speaking about matters in which you do not understand. The corruption, the good? All of it - that is who we are. For you to say that I cannot recognize the difference would be the same as you being blind. Of *course* we understand the balance of nature." The tone was almost sarcastic and she might have rolled her eyes. "Some ruin will happen - this place is too big and we are too few to stop everything. But as you pointed out, sometime the ruin is for the better. We will make sure that the land can flourish to it's potential."

He grinned as if he had won, and the slapped his hand against the wall. "Exactly. You--YOU will decide. The King does not see it, but I do. You will control whether an area sees famine or drought, who will live and who will die-- you will set yourself up as demi-gods letting one tragedy go and staying another all in your eyes of a balance. Flourish? Flourish," he scoffed and shook his head, "you will weaken the King and his kingdom all from your cozy little island out at sea." And with that smiled too broad, he turned for the door.

She stood now, her face barely showing a flush of red under the copper tone, "You think that is why we're here? To play gods and create fate for people?" She laughed - openly laughed, "That is pathetic. Why would we bother coming here, if that is the case? Or better yet, why not just let Storm run her gift rampant, and wait to reap the benefits?" Another puff of laughter, "Surely you do not advise on strategy, do you? We do not operate that way. But instead of asking how we do things, you create accusations out of nothing."

He turned in the incremental motion of a second hand on a clock. When he faced her. "I do not make accusations out of nothing. It is there in your proposal -- to purify our elements. You said yourself you can not stop all the tragedies, but you will stop some. It is you who say these things. I only say them so you hear your own words outside of your oh so pretentious and perfect bubble of superiority. You know all. Of course you know how to balance, you say. As to why you are coming here? Why indeed? Surely there are other places to struggle with the limitations to your craft. And I am not as foolish as you seem to think. It only speaks to your narrow point of view. Have Storm run her gift rampant? And what would you have to reap? Even now you speak not of balances, but the great swaths of destruction you could wreck. I spoke of the little changes you wish to make having greater consequences. As to what I advise, it is no matter to you. Only to His Majesty."

With a careless flick of her wrist, Rukiya sat down once more by the empty fireplace, "You do not know the consequences of what you speak of. We have plenty of places that would be more than happy to share the true news of what we do. Wells that can be discovered and used, crops that can last through winter. There can be destruction yes, but that is not why we are here. I can tell you that till I'm out of air and it wouldn't matter. It will be up to His Majesty, regardless of your opinion."

"We will see." He gave no gesture of leave to one who flicked a hand at him. He had not found his book on tradition or ancient law, but he had come away with what he needed after all. And he felt all too secure in that as he hurried his way down the hall.

Rukiya waited till he was out of out sight, before smirking, "Pompous old windbag." Folding her arms over her chest, she stared off again into the empty fireplace, unashamed of the destruction it could take.

Left alone in the room, Storm glanced around for a moment, before looking to Ewan, "Do you have.. matters to attend to?" She looked to the door the council just left through, and then back to him.

"Only the safety and security of the ambassadors in my care," he bowed his head formally. "When I am relieved of those duties, my matters for the day are done."

"I am not sure if you will ever truly be relieved of that." A slight curl from the corner of her lip, "Will you walk with me?"

"Of course," he nodded and opened the door for her. "And I can hope you will tell me of what you are thinking on this walk."

"I will, though.." she followed him out the door, and there, her smile was evident, "I am not sure if my mind can put together any thoughts. I am slightly overwhelmed."

"What is that saying around Rhydin? Be careful what you wish for?" Ewan smiled at her and then continued. "This is just the beginning, beloved. The greater challenge and troubles are still ahead."

"I know." His remark eased her smile, "But it is still a difficult step that we accomplished. I feel more comfortable executing the agreement than proposing it."

"Good." There was a moment's contact, the tip of his fingers along her near arm and then drawn away again.

The brief touch made her want to reach out and hold his hand, or alter their course for a more private location, so she rubbed the arm he touched with her other hand, "And what are your opinions of the outcome?"

A fine line formed between his brows. It was not a frown, but he considered the outcome and with it still leading on to so many possibilities, he finally just shook his head. "I do not know. I am happy for you and our youngest. I am glad that your people have this change to explore and for my people to reach just a bit further beyond their understanding.?

It would be enough. With that she nodded and placed her hands behind her back. She considered the long road ahead for this new journey, "I miss our boys."

This time, his hand did claim hers, trying to remove one from its companion to lace with his own. "As do I. Do you think the others will wish to remain long?"

Her hand fit snug in his and she shook her head, "No, I do not think so. I think the journey back home will stifle any lingering thoughts of staying."

"Would it be rude of me to be happy about that?" He smiled. "Perhaps I should let you go speak with the others then, so as not to delay our return any longer than necessary. Then you and I can have the rest of the time before our departure for...talking."

She laughed warmly and paused so that she could wrap her arms around him. Her hard work would have been too little if he had not helped. His stern requirements made for a good proposal. Without his support, she was sure that her plan would have failed, "Do we not need to stay for the final arrangements?"

"Those are made with Keefe and," he smirked, "Cian, and their council in Yransea. All we require at this point, is the sealed document decreeing Yransea as his Majesty's voice in the matter and details the three requirements you agreed to."

"Then we will wait for the document. Things may be discussed then. For now," she raised up on her feet slightly, but otherwise didn't close any distance between them, "My time is yours."

"And what am I to do with such a valuable gift? I am overwhelmed." From another man, perhaps, it would have sounded as jest. But to him, at some keen moments of the day, when he felt his life and what had become of it like a large tapestry before him, he realized what a gift the woman who stood near him was. It near crushed him, the power of that realization.

"I.." she paused and studied his face, "is everything okay?"

His hand reached to caress her cheek, and he nodded. "Yes, everything is fine." And his hand dropped away as they walked on.

"Very well." Her concern eased as she reached for his hand again before leading them to their room, "What do you suppose the boys have done, well we have been away?"

"Rearranged the furniture and taught Whisper how to climb trees." He joked.

A roll of her eyes and a puff of laughter, "Your sons to the very end."

"Mine? Mine!" He laughed as well, not that brief, low one that he maintained for the public, but the broad one only his family heard. "I am sure Kellan is having his hand at the rearranging with your gift, my dear."

She twitched her nose before turning her attention to the door to their room, "And just what is it that you are suggesting?"

"That they are our sons." He opened the door and drew her in after him. "And I think we can agree they are just the children for us."

"Yes." She followed him into their room, "And do you suppose that one more would fit in as well?"

It was one of those dainty trick questions women employed without even realizing it. "I do not suppose. I know that if our family grows, it will be just the family we need as the family we have now. Wonderful thing about the heart, it holds all the lives it should in it, no matter how many are added or not."

His words brought pause as she studied him thoughtfully. Then, she rose on her toes to kiss him warmly, "I love you, Ewan."

The kiss shared, he reasserted one of the absolute truths of his life. "I love you, Storm."