503-03-06 Menagerie Opening
From Crossroads Wiki
It's March 6th, 503
The doors of Aileana's long awaited menagerie were opening, and all were invited to come have a look at what she built there.
The contingent of guards that surround the Emperor and Empress are an effective barrier of privacy, in some ways. They can at least pretend that they are alone, and are doing so.
"Do I have to stay long?" Rourke asks his wife as they walk, her arm linked with his.
Mena smiles an affectionately patient smile to the Emperor, giving her head a shake. "No, you don't have to stay long. I think it is great that you are present at least a little while."
Stepping out from the Embassy, and just ahead of the Emperor and Empress, is the strange visual of the shimmering-color-clothinged figure of Ryland. He moves with a slow pace, unhurried in his venture to get wherever it is he's going. But, that direction does seem to be towards where the flow of traffic is; to the College, and the gathering to the animals.
Isolde enters the area with a freakishly well figured out waddle. We describe it as such because she toddles, she waddles, she vamps. There are four Claremont guards around her as she lowers as she sees those of station in her presence.
Rourke and Mena are passing through the area, guards about them. Rourke does glance towards those who are present, but it's more of a passing acknowledgment than showing any sign of slowing.
Ashlan Menagerie - Gateway University - Plaza del Arte
Though the outside of the building has a barn facade, walking into the menagerie looks nothing like the traditional Green Fields stable. The most surprising fact may be that it doesn't stink at all like animal -- an assumption that magic had to be involved to pull that off. The floor is cobblestone save for a curved staircase of polished cherry wood that goes up to a second level of animal displays and the wooden flooring on that level.
On either side of the long hallway of the bottom level are large stalls made of cherry wood though the top half is protected from human touch with glass panels that allow easy viewing of the animals in each cage. Attempts at natural habits have been made and each stall has a back door that allows handlers to enter away from any crowds that may gather.
The top portion of the menagerie has much smaller cages in the same style for smaller animals, rodents, reptiles. The second level circles the top of the building, but the walkway is much smaller so that the center of the entire building is open and airy from floor to ceiling. Sky lights at the very top help add to the feeling of being outdoors, but saved from inclement weather.
At the end of the long hallway is a door that leads back to the feed and tack rooms as well as the passageways for trained handlers to take care of the creatures. A guard is always on post at these doors to only allow those with authority to access this area.
Annabella takes her mug of ale, sipping it lightly, as she starts to wander around the exhibits. "A purple lamb?" she asks Aileana, "OH! And look at these... horse flies? They are so cute!"
The Imperial Couple enter with their knights, Rourke and Mena talking quietly at the center of their group. Inside, the knights disperse a bit so that the pair are more freely accessible.
There is a table up with drinks of ale and wine for the evening's events, and Aileana is near it gesturing Annabella down the hallway, "Yes, just down in one of those stalls." She then drops into a curtsey upon royal arrival, "Good evening! I'm so glad you could come! Please feel free to look around. It's fantastic."
Isolde walks with her vampish waddle, you know if a waddle could vamp. Her blue-green eyes move about the distance and the area as she finds a place to stand. The Ever-Trusty (TM) Claremont guards quartet follow.
Mena glances around a bit as she chats with the Emperor quietly, inclining her head to those she makes eye contact with. "Well, this is quite well done," she opines quietly, taking in the surroundings as well. She looks to Rourke, then, and smiles. "I know."
Annabella looks up from the exhibit she's at, seeing the royal couple enter. She dips into a low curtsey, bowing her head, and trying to keep her backpack from sliding off her shoulder.
Phoebe gives a curtsey for Mena and Rourke, watching the Imperial couple as she murmurs, "Your Majesties.." and then a glance at Isolde, watching the waddling woman with an eye of skepticism, chilling gaze for a moment as her stormy, blue-grey eyes sweep back around the menagerie.
Despite his leaving before, the Emperor and Empress have arrived before the stranger. Ryland follows briefly after, his bare feet touching the floor in thoughtful strides. And, in that same diligent fashion he meanders towards the animals cages, without so much as greeting anyone, gold eyes flecked with open curiousity. His clothing continues to change shape and shift in the light, casting a neverending array of everchanging colors.
Duchess Asha is braving the menagerie. And, to judge by her expression as she enters, she's surprised by the lack of general chaos. She takes a cautious look around, just to make sure it isn't hiding anywhere, then finally takes in the human sights, bowing politely toward the Emperor and Empress, and dipping her chin in a nod to the others.
Rourke gives a bit of a hmph to his wife, casting a look about with interest. A cordial nod is delivered to those present before he focuses upon one of the odd creatures, heading for a cage with interest.
As Rourke goes to examine one of the creatures, Mena breaks off from him and moves in Aileana's direction. "Everything turned out so wonderful," she says with a bright smile. "I didn't realize how many creatures you were keeping in that tower of yours."
Annabella rises from her curtsey as the Emporer walks past her. She seems fascinated with the 'horseflies', and almost has her nose pressed against the display, watching them intently.
Isolde turns her eyes upon Annabella as she feels them on her. A brow is arched slowly, "Miss?" Though the guards move about her like a helicopter blade. VRRROOOOM. Her eyes fall on Phoebe's icy stare(TM) and she smiles pleasantly to the woman. She then starts to look at the displays
Ryland moves in front of the monkey's cage, and tilts his head towards the creature, a fond expression creasing his features. He muses, softly to it, "You, my friend, are quite far from home." His hands move behind his back, linking there in comfortable fashion. He almost seems to disregard that anyone else is here.
Mogur Imperius arrives, an amused look on his face as he takes in the sights, sounds, and smells of all the animals. He looks in particular for Mistian creatures.
Aileana laughs a bit now, "Well, there were plenty of them, yes. I'm going to have the llamas sent back from Green Fields now. I think people would enjoy them, or so I hope. If you have any questions, I can try to answer them."
Annabella looks up as Isolde addresses her. Giving the Baroness a warm smile and a curtsey, she says, "Good evening, Excellency. Quite the menagerie the Duchess has assembled, dont you think?"
Phoebe slides her hands out from behind her back, placing her hands in front of her as she remarks, chillingly, "Baroness Destine.." Phoebe murmurs, giving a glance at Isolde before moving slowly around the menagerie. The entrance of the Mogur Imperius causes her to stop her steps, watching the man silently for now, her lips pressed together quietly.
"Oh, I don't have any questions," Mena tells Aileana. "I just wanted to say how wonderful it turned out. Congratulations," she adds with a warm smile. "I'll let you get to greeting everyone else. Enjoy the opening!"
Asha moves toward one of the...stall display thingies, though she hangs well back from it. Rather than watching the animals, she watches...more interesting animals. Like Isolde and Phoebe.
"Really, I'm just hoping that more animals from all over Ikol can be brought here, so the people of Gateway can get a local taste of what's out there. I think it would be fascinating!" Aileana beams with excitement at the very thought of all of it, "And even some of the rare creatures of Mists would be very welcome here. I've heard they have six legged cows."
Isolde smiles warmly towards Annabella as she lowers her lashes, "It is interesting, I so love the creatures of Duchess Green Fields." She feels the fingers of chill down her spine. Normally associated with a demon, this time associated with.. "Lady Phoebe, it is good to see you are in pleasant spirits today. Why your smile is almost bewitching. We must talk whtn this is over." She moves towards Aileana and lowers a bit, "Your animals are exquisite, Your Grace."
"I heard the cows eat people," Mena says with a chuckle. "I don't know whether to believe it or not."
Annabella takes a small notebook and a pencil out of her backpack, and starts to do a detailed sketch of the horseflies. What girl doesn't love horses, after all, even miniature ones with wings? She has set her mug of ale down on the floor beside her.
Phoebe murmurs, softly, "Duchess Aileana, I still don't think it is a fair idea to house one of the six-legged cows here.." Her tone carries gently as she turns slowly towards the sweet voice of the Oh So Fat, and wonderfully Bun-In-The-Oven, Baroness Destine. Her eyes sweeping over Isolde for a moment, "Perhaps we shall.."
Rourke gives a fond wave towards Aileana from a spot by a cage, without approaching her. He glances over the recent arrivals, considering, and focuses on the Mogur.
Aileana returns the wave of the Emperor, "If you have any questions, do let me know! If you want a good show, we can send an untreated chair to Finnacity. He will eat it. Can you believe it? A furniture eating tortoise?" This question she really asks of everyone.
A single guard has accompanied the Duchess of Guardians this eve. He stands behind her, seemingly more intrigued by the animals than the women. He sticks his stump in a cage, waggles it about for a moment, and withdrawls it swiftly, chortling. He gives his head a shake and then turns to make sure no one's eyeing his charge.
Mena meanders back toward Rourke's direction, inclining her head to Asha with a friendly smile. "Good to see you, Your Grace. Are you enjoying the animals?"
Ryland makes an odd sound, perhaps lost in the conversations about, to the monkey. His head then tilts to mirror the creatures own curiousity, and the thing stops to make faces at him, and begins to jump up and down, in almost excited anticipation. That earns a smile upon his features, and he makes another odd, chittering sound. Then, he rises, and turns to the others present, as if for the first time realizing there are, indeed, others here. "Good evening, Emperor Rourke of Gateway," he greets, in jovial fashion. He bows, bonelessly to the Emperor.
Rourke holds out a hand towards Mena, though he's squinting at Aileana. "Alright, I want to see that. Throw a chair in there, Duchess Green Fields." He looks over as he's greeted by Ryland, a bit of humor retained in his smile. "And to you, Master Ryland. Enjoying the menagerie?"
"Don't stick your hand in there, Gawain," Asha rolls her eyes at the guard, reaching out to push at his shoulder with one fist. "Or your lack of a hand, you know what I mean," she adds dryly, turning towards Mena's greeting to bow. "Your majesty," she says politely. "It's quite...interesting."
Mogur Imperius senses eyes on him, and meets the Emperor's gaze, offering a deep bow to the man, then moving toward him to offer some more quiet words.
Annabella seems to be oblivious to the fact that the Emporer and Empress are standing practically right next to her. She is really intent on sketching this horsefly, it seems.
Aileana laughs and heads towards the back of the menagerie to open a door and whisper the instructions to one of the handlers. It's not too long before said handler does appear through the stall back door and leaves a chair in the same place as the tortoise.
Mena's hand joins that of Rourke's. "It certainly is," she agrees with Asha before looking toward the form of Rylane. "Good evening to you," she says, smiling at the new arrival to the land.
Isolde smiles as she moves towards the Ice Princess. "Dear Lady Phoebe, I would love to have you over for tea sometime." There is a pause as her eyes skim the woman, "Or perhaps we could meet for lunch." She moves to view those around the area, falling silent.
The tortoise, better known as Finnacity, looks at the chair and slooowly begins to crawl over it, the gigantic beast peeking its beak out at one of the chair legs and suddenly CHOMPING on the leg of the chair. Munch Munch num num.
Rourke smiels at Mena and Ryland, but there is one who rivets his attention for the moment, the Mogur Imperius. "Mena, that's Master Ryland. Master Ryland, my wife," he murmurs absently, releasing Mena's hand to listen to the Motur.
Phoebe gives a carefully schooled smile, before speaking slowly, "Baroness, with all due respect, I wouldn't be caught dead, or alive, drinking any tea from you. Perhaps, though, if you are so inclined to have meal and beverage, we shall meet at one of the places within the village.."
Aileana does stop her return from the back of the menagerie to watch the tortoise actually doing as she said it would, "Fascinating. He ate one of my favorite chairs the first day he came to the tower. I wasn't expecting it, truly."
"You take all the fun out of life," Gawain says with a heavy sigh, assuming a more proper position for a guard. He stands straight, stiff, and proud. At attention. He looks very imposing, professional... and bored.
Annabella finally finishes her sketch of the horsefly and moves on to the small purple lamb. She takes her mug of ale with her, sipping at it a bit, before setting it down on the floor. The young midwife then sits on the floor beside it, crossing her legs 'indian-style' beneath her skirts, and starts to sketch again.
Ryland ah's, in a knowing fashion. In one practiced motion, he bows in that same boneless grace, his arm sweeping forwards with a dancer's grace, to ensnare, gently, the Empress' hand if he is so permitted. A gentleman's kiss, given then. Still slung low, his golden eyes lift up to consider the Empress. "And so few on the face of Ikol could claim such beauty as the Empress of Gateway," says he. "It is my pleasure and honor to be graced by your presence, Your Majesty." Slowly, he rises, smiling warmly.
"Okay, we could go for something between stick up your ass and sticking your stump in the cages," Asha points out to Gawain with a touch of amusement. "You could end up like the chair," she notes, pointing toward where the turtle is munching away on that chair.
"Oh, our new guest," Mena recalls at Rourke's introduction, offering her hand out in greeting to Ryland. "Philomena Caprios," she offers in way of greeting. "It is a pleasure to meet you, and you are /much/ too kind. Welcome to Gateway. I do hope I get the opportunity to get to speak with you more in depth sometime?"
Chomp! The tortoise looks rather content with that chair leg, chomping at it and pushing his bulky body against the wooden treat, beady, turtle eyes looking rather hungrily at the wood.
Mogur Imperius offers another partial bow as he arrives in front of the Emperor and Empress. "Your Majesties. My erstwhile predecessor has managed to stop further incidences of the... accidents, and is working on a method to reverse them. I do hope to have good news to report on that front within a few days." A pause, and then. "I apologize for the lack of pleasantries, but I sensed that is what you wanted to hear from me."
The priest enters this menagerie with no small amount of curiosity, for it is clear from the look in his eyes he possessed a great love for live, both animal and other. He regards some of the guests, a little bedazzled by the array of importance laid out before him.
Aileana finally moves back to the beverage table, "Please, everyone have a drink. It's some of Green Field's finest! If anyone would like to hold or pet one of the animals, we can have a handler bring them out. None of them are really dangerous..yet." The way she verbally caresses that last word indicates that she hopes she can get some of the more spicy variety of animals brought here soon.
Phoebe watches the quiet gathering of Emperor, Empress, Ryland, and Mogur, her blue-grey eyes keen on the associated quartet, before her gaze wanders over to the chair chomping spectacle of turtle and furniture. Her voice, smooth as she murmurs, "Duchess, do be careful with what you desire on the regime of your specimens.."
There is a slight quirk of Rourke's lips. "You are most perceptive, good Mogur. It is the rather most pressing detail in my mind at the moment," the Emperor observes, nodding. "We haven't been able to talk much, lately, but I would not wish to distract you from your important duties. Perhaps when things have been removed to normal, we may have a longer conversation."
Mena's attention is briefly drawn to the Mogur at his news. "Thank you for seeing to the stopping of the anomalies, Mogur. That is a great relief." Her gaze then shifts again toward Ryland.
Isolde moves over to Phoebe and lowers her voice.
"Is there a rule book somewhere?" Gawain asks Asha through the side of his mouth. "'cause no one ever showed it to me." He watches everyone carefully, his black-eyed gaze lingering no longer than a moment or two upon each party.
Phoebe oh so slowly begins to pull off the right glove from her right hand as her gaze sweeps back to Isolde, her lips smoothly and effortlessly melting into the smallest of smiles. "Oh?" Phoebe asks, as the glove reveals the fair flesh beneath.
Ryland muses gently to the Empress, releasing her hand, "Ever would that please me, Your Majesty. You have but to ask," he assures her, in his soft voice. Then, his gaze slowly shifts to Aileana, curiously; moreso than the furniture eating tortoise. He asks, with some curiousity, "There are some lands that have gatherings of animals far greater than this, covering many streets within the city of various animals about the world of Ikol. They seek the same goals as you; a worthy venture, to be sure." He pauses, "But, so is freedom," he adds in a respectful tone. And that's all he feels he needs to say on the subject.
Bastien wanders aimlessly, though he does make it a point to avail himself of a goblet of wine. He finds himself before the parrot and toucan, gazing upon them with wonderment and a bemused smile.
Annabella takes a sip of her ale, before continuing to sketch the purple lamb. She looks up from time to time, making sure no one's about to step on her as she sits on the floor in front of the lamb's cage.
Aileana looks over to Phoebe and smiles, "We'll only accept animals that we have someone that knows how to care for them, of course." She smiles pleasantly, giving a wave of greeting to Bastien, "Thank you for coming! Take a look around. Have a drink." Her gaze does shift to Ryland then, her brows drawing together a bit though she just ends up giving a polite smile, "I don't think we've met."
Isolde studies the removal of the gloves for a moment. Then she shifts her weight. Her eyes fall on the Mogur before her voice drops again.
Mena nods to Ryland. "Perhaps later this week," she suggests. "Until then, I hope you find Gateway to your liking." She glances around the room again, then, though remains at Rourke's side.
Mogur Imperius nods to the royal couple, and as they take up conversation with Ryland, he slowly backs away from them to turn his attention to others in the room. Phoebe is next to catch his attention.
"You're lucky you're good at what you do," Asha informs Gawain in a good-natured drawl, glancing to Ryland at his comment. A slight dip of her chin registers her own thoughts on the matter, before she moves to look into another enclosure, tugging absently on one ear.
Phoebe holds out her hand to Isolde, lightly, "Perhaps, Baroness.." Phoebe begins, "Perhaps we could go for a stroll.. I could lead the way..?" Her stormy, blue-grey eyes fixed on Isolde for the moment as her fingers extend invitingly, welcoming Isolde to take her hand. Nothing suspicious here!
Ryland observes, humor touching the gold depths of his eyes and twitching to the upturned corners of his mouth, "No, m'Lady," he assures Aileana. "You have not." His hands again slip behind his back, as he considers her further.
"Well, I'm glad you came. I'm Duchess Aileana Ashlan of Green Fields." And then the very young Duchess smiles warmly, "And you are?"
Isolde smiles softly as she studies the woman, "I am quite sure my wonderful guards could lead the way, Milady." She does not take the extended hand. Her eyes fall across the room, "It does appear that you.. The Mogur is looking for you, Milady. I should leave you to him."
Rourke slips his arm about his wife's waist, a sort of distance in his eyes as he gazes off for a moment.
There's not even the slightest pause before the Stranger beings to offer, "Rylandishariander Cappadoiciousous Fillanderthar Alandandray Delarouge," he insists to the Duchess, his smile broader. Then, with a certain solemness, he concludes, "The Fifth. Though, to be truthful, that is only the first part of my name. To give you the entirety of my moniker would take much more of your time than you would be willing to give me," he teases. "Ryland will suffice, easily enough. It warms my heart to meet a woman whose heart is graced with an affinity for life."
After a few minutes spent regarding the magnificent birds, the priest takes another sip of his wine and turns, his grey eyes scanning the gathering for one face in particular. He moves toward the Emperor, making certain he glances to the knights as well, so that they realize he is aware of their presence. Silently, he attempts to attract the attention of the Keeper before approaching further.
Mena glances around, comfortable with Rourke's arm around her. Noting the priest, her head tilts toward her distracted husband, murmuring quietly to him.
Aileana seems relieved at the shortened name, "Well, it's nice to meet you. What a fascinating name. Perhaps you can come to dinner sometime and tell me the full thing?" Her eyes light a bit, "Is that just a family name then? And I do love most forms of life, yes."
Phoebe gives the smallest of smiles to Isolde, looking at her for a moment, before her gaze sweeps around to Mogur, looking at him as his gaze settles upon her, and she gives a low curtsey in acknowledgement of the man.
Annabella continues to make her way around the exhibits, sketching each one quickly but carefully. All this nobility and royalty in one room might be making the plain midwife a tad nervous, perhaps. She pushes her glasses up her nose with one finger, before leaning in and trying to find the chameleon.
Rourke takes a moment to look at his wife. "Who?" he asks her, before turning his attention about and noticing the form of Bastien. "Ah." His gaze considers the figure before himself, and he inclines his head in a welcoming fashion.
Tezca's entrance into the menagerie is quiet, curious, as she takes a look at the rows of enclosures. Shadow paces close at her side, looking around with just as much interest as the ambassador.
"I am named after every one of my descendants," remarks Ryland, gently. "The first, is of my own choosing. And mine is - a long, long line. I would be pleased to take dinner with you, Duchess Aileana." He bows, low, and boneless again, the smile rarely leaving his face. As he rises, he catches Tezca, and Shadow's entrance. And it is to that pair his interest is swept.
The priest accepts this as an invitation and moves forward a bit, less smoothly that he might normally, for he looks quite a bit older than he was just a week ago. He holds a cane of polished bloodwood and leans ever so slightly upon it. "Good evening, Your Imperial Majesties. I do hope I am not intruding upon some private conversation. I confess to a bit of excitement at seeing you at at last."
Mena smiles at Bastien as he approaches, inclining her head as the man bows. "You're not interrupting at all," she assures, then glances toward Rourke.
Duchess Asha pauses in front of the horseflies, still tugging absently at her ear. "They look fairly safe," she muses to Gawain. "Mists," she adds. "Full of...interesting things."
"Lady Phoebe," Mogur intones as he approaches and offers a bow. "A pleasure to see you again. You are looking well... the years have been kind to you." Of course, since he looks a decade younger than he did before, his smirk is a knowing one.
"Fantastic." Aileana replies cheerfully then, "I can't wait to have such a dinner then." She then gestures to the kegs, "Ale? It's something you might enjoy." Who wouldn't? In fact, now that she's not pregnant, she grabs a mug for herself.
Annabella looks up as she senses a nonhuman motion coming in the door. Her eyes widen as she sees the lady with the jaguar by her side. "I hope he isn't hungry," she says to herself, looking over to the lamb's cage for a moment. When she looks back to the chameleon exhibit, she FINALLY sees it. "Aha! There you are," she says to the chameleon.
There's a marginal narrowing of Rourke's eyes as he contemplates, then there's a burst of awareness and he inclines his head. "I can only apologize for the overwhelming and pressing matters of state of late, and pray your pardon. You have the advantage of us, I do believe, as the Empress and myself are apparently known."
After a brief glance around, Tezca tips her chin up to search for Aileana among the crowd, her own trace echoed by the movement of the large cat at her side. Whichever of them notices the duchess first, the pair moves toward her. "Your grace," the ambassador greets with a swift smile.
Phoebe happens to look almost half a decade younger herself, giving a bit of a nod and a faint smile, "Mogur Imperius.. always a pleasure." Phoebe remarks, watching him for a moment. "How are you?" She queries, before continuing, "How is the Old Mogur?" as she brushes back a length of flaxen hair.
Aileana smiles immediately to Tezca as she arrives, "Good evening! I'm so glad you could come. The llamas are being sent for so that everyone can enjoy them too."
Isolde studies the people silently as she walks along looking at the exhibits.
"He is quite busy, and quite disappointed," the Mogur replies to Phoebe. "As would anyone be who did not achieve the results they set out to do. He wanted to come to this party but I wouldn't let him..."
"I'm glad you appreciate them, your grace," Tezca says with a wry smile, looking slowly around the menagerie again. "Do you have access to fields on the isle, for them to graze?" she asks curiously, a hand resting lightly between Shadow's shoulders. "This is a lovely menagerie, especially when it's so cold here, but they'll look for green as spring arrives."
Ryland murmurs gently to Tezca, "Lady," and he bows some, "And, Sir." To Shadow, with the utmost respect given to the great cat. His smile grows warmer, "I am pleased to see Tolek's representatives here. It speaks much for this young Empire." Very pleased, in fact, he seems. His mood turned up a notch, a glance is returned to Aileana, "As with the Empress, Duchess Aileana, I am at your disposal. You have but to ask."
The priest inclines his head. "I am Bastien Lamprey, head of the Order of Providence and Prior of the Monstery of Lux Aeternum, Majesty. I have sought an audience to make you aware of my presence on Gateway Isle, though I know better than to assume that you would have remained ignorant of such things with such a gathering of advisors and guards around you." He smiles, and in the grey eyes there is neither guile nor malice.
Phoebe cocks her head, "Oh?" she queries, her voice quiet, "Why would you not let him?" Phoebe presses the matter, giving a sweeping gaze over the area, her hand extending in a very display-like fashion. "To see the sights that Green Fields' can put together when dealing with animal-kind?" Her voice holds a hint of cold, dry amusement.
Annabella finishes the sketch of the chameleon, then goes on to the parrot and toucan exhibit. She looks over at the jaguar from time to time, but it seems to be behaving itself, so she relaxes a bit. She sketches the birds, watching them with a soft smile at their beauty.
Aileana does nod to Tezca, "True..very true. I suppose I should likely leave them there then. Maybe I'll just have them come for a visit now and again. I do love the llamas." She gives a bit of a sigh then, "I only wish Russip could see this day." She takes a sip of her ale then, "Here's to Russip."
Mena studies the features of Bastien quietly at the Emperor's side, a pleasant smile remaining upon her features. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Master Lamprey," she murmurs.
"He has more important matters to attend to," the Mogur replies to Phoebe. "As do we, I recall. When this temporal accident has been rectified, we must resume our earlier plans, no?"
"Should we be calling you Prior Lamprey? Is there a title that your.. order.. has which would be appropriate?" Rourke asks of Bastien on the heels of his wife's cordial greeting.
Tezca twists a wry smile to Aileana. "They are easily led, if you can fence a pasture nearby," she assures, then turns to look toward Ryland, smile spreading at his greeting to Shadow. "As we are pleased to be here, sir," she replies with a polite dip of her chin. "But I'm afraid we've not met. I am Tezca Yupanqui, Princess of Tolek and ambassador to Gateway, and this is my partner, Shadow." Who looks toward the greeting with a low, coughing rumble of his own. "You are?"
Lazarus enters the doorway with his hair still wet from a bath, his clothes clean and pressed. He steps inside, bowing to the emperor et all, then goes about looking at the animals."
As the talk of the anomaly reaches Asha's ears, the duchess seems to sober a bit, glancing toward the Mogur and Phoebe. After a moment, and a full lap of the menagerie, she slips out.
Isolde turns her eyes towards Lazarus but doesn't recognize him in the least. She looks at a few different displays and then covers her yawn.
Bastien smiles back levelly. "Actually, my title is an unfortunate necessity within our brotherhood. Else who might be termed the one in charge? I prefer to be addressed simply as Bastien, for I am but a simple man with an even simpler mission, and I am humble servant of Providence, and of yourself, Keeper, as you are her plenipotentiary here in Gateway."
"One who knows your people and your ways well, Princess Tezca Yupanqui. Shadow." Another nod of Ryland's head, politely, to Shadow as if he were as every bit important as the person he was with. Then, he offers, "I fear I will bore the people gathered should I give my name again; Ryland suffices well enough. I am merely a visitor here, for the moment."
"It is a pleasure," Tezca says to Ryland, smile easing further as she looks to the man. "We see so few even outside of Gateway who know us well. Shadow in particular appreciates it," she adds with a glance down to the jaguar.
Mena gives another smile to Bastien and tips her head to the priest. "What is your mission, then?" she asks curiously.
Phoebe gives a slow nod, "We should." Phoebe says quietly, her gaze sweeping over the man for a moment, pondering, "I heard you plan to reverse the effects. That will be a relief to some, and a regret to just as many, I believe." comes her chilling words, her gaze upon the Mogur and little else for the moment.
Annabella seems to have sketched all the exhibits, and she tucks her notepad and pencil back into her backpack. She finishes her ale, and starts to make her way out, brushing by Lazarus in the process. "Pardon me," she says, not recognizing him.
"Bastien, then," Rourke says agreeably, growing at least somewhat comfortable in the conversation with the priest. "I am much more accustomed to titles. You will find me pinning one on your name at most points, I fear, so if it is Master Bastien, that is well, and if there's something else, you have but to speak it."
Aileana takes a good healthy drink of ale, rather content at how fast the stuff hits her considering her thirteen-year-old size, "So...does anyone want to see an animal up close? I can have them led out? Though not Finnacity. He's heavy."
Bastien inclines his head. "Prior then, if a title need be named, for now." He looks deeply for a moment into the Emperor's eyes, as if seeking something there. You are young, for a Keeper, but I see within you the potential for even more greatness. Providence has blessed you in manifold ways, though you sometimes feel she bears you ill-will. Hardships forge excellence, Your Majesty..."
Mogur Imperius tilts his head. "Alas, I do not think it would be ethical to choose to do anything other than put things back the way Providence intended."
Mena glances between Bastien and Rourke as the two speak, remaining quietly observant for now.
Lazarus smiles at the woman who has bumped his shoulder. In a very familiar voice he replies, "That is quite alright, Lady Annabella. No harm done."
Phoebe gives the faintest movement of her lips into a small smile, "Yes, that would be what should be done." she muses, giving a slow nod, "Thank Providence that a reversal is in sight." Phoebe says softly.
The Emperor's political smile slips for a moment, a trace of sorrow abruptly edging through before it returns. "By that token, Bastien, I would be the most excellent man ever born," he says, but the laugh is clearly and truly joking. "I thank you. We'll see how Providence lays out the future. And as my wife asks, what would you call your misison?"
Mogur Imperius nods toward Phoebe, then offers a quick smile before turning to look at some of the animals.
Annabella lets out a little gasp, as she recognizes the voice, but not the man. "Your Grace... Lazarus? Is that you?" she asks, looking at you the much younger-than-expected man rather intently. "How are you doing? I have been meaning to come see you. I hope you've been doing well."
Phoebe murmurs faintly to the Mogur Imperius, before she slowly steps away, taking a wayward glance around the menagerie.
Ryland suggests to Tezca, quietly, "It is hard to not find a people such as yours who have such a unity with life, Princess Tezca, or be impressed by that forged faith. Your people have, indeed, left their mark upon the world, and shall not be forgotten in the spanse of time." He looks to both Princess, and Companion, before nodding, and, with that, he begins to make his way out. Again, slowly. Unhurried. He offers, as parting, "May the stars shine upon you all, and light the paths before your feet."
Bastien doesn't hesitate. "My mission, and that of the brothers under my care, and under the care of brother Gregor, is to give solace to those in need, do good to those whose hearts may be turned to good, and to give hope to those without it. We serve Providence and seek only the fulfillment of her grand plan for us all."
Aileana continues to look over the crowd, pleased that so many joined her in the celebration, "I'll take this time to shamelessly remind people to participate in the good deed game too!"
Mogur Imperius chuckles at Phoebe's words. "Perhaps," is his one word reply.
"And you, Ryland," Tezca replies to the man's farewell, bemused as she watches him out. A brow is arched down to Shadow, a question met with a cat's aloof lack of concern, to all appearances. The jaguar, it seems, is much more interested in exploring the menagerie, and his ambassador follows along quickly, to make sure there are no...diplomatic misunderstandings.
Isolde hears the word 'Lazarus' and turns in that direction. Her eyes fall on Phoebe as she approaches the young man pretending to be Lazarus.
"Such is a noble mission, indeed," Mena says with another smile toward the priest. "I am sure you will receive a warm welcome."
Phoebe turns her gaze at the mention of Lazarus, looking at him keenly for a moment before she watches Isolde approaching. A skeptical brow arches upon her features, as the duo come together.
Rourke tucks Mena's hand around his arm. "There are few who pay attention to those who may be in need. That it is the mission of you and yours to do so is very encouraging. We should speak about the particulars of it, and how we may assist. It is good to have those devoted to Her will working among the people."
Lazarus laughs softly. "Yes, it's me. In need of a haircut, I'd say, but doing far better than before, thank you. I appreicate your concern, Lady Annabella, truely." his sparkling dark eyes glance around, seeing others approaching him "hello Iz.." his eyes are truely only for one woman when she comes in his sight. "Lady Forester. It is a pleasure to meet you once again." It is upon her golden visage that his eyes remain
Bastien nods to the Emperor. "Brother Gregor fulfills that role well. Our clergy have been divided into a monastic brotherhood and a priesthood. I govern the later, leading the study of Providence and her will as it relates to the times we live in, and presiding over our ceremonies and prayers, even as Gregor goes about the humbler, but more important work of our brotherhood. I would very much like for you to meet him when the opportunity arises, for he and I have practically built the order from our youngest years."
Aileana's gaze turns on Bastien as he speaks, her brows drawing together a bit as she drinks her ale. So long as everyone is interacting, she seems content.
Mena takes a small step closer to Rourke, casting a brief smile at him before nodding again to Bastien. "We look forward to meeting him as well, Prior Bastien."
"So how do you pursue the study of Providence, and the discernment of Her will?" Rourke queries of Bastien, his brow furrowing just slightly. "But wait, this might not be the venue for such a discussion, I suppose. Will you join me for tea tomorrow?"
Isolde smiles to Lazarus as she lowers her voice to his ear, studying Phoebe as well. Then she turns her eyes to Laz and takes a step back, "You are looking....young."
Annabella looks relieved to see Lazarus looking so well, and smiles affectionately at him. "I'm glad to hear it, Lazarus. I hope your good health continues," she says, in a sincere tone. She looks around as Isolde approaches, and steps aside so that the Baroness can speak to the Dowager Duke.
Bastien nods slowly. "I would be delighted and honored to drink with you, Majesties. And I shall bring Brother Gregor with me if I can locate him. He tends to wander a bit in his work. Especially of late..."
Shadow looks terribly interested in Her Baajesty, crouching just outside the enclosure, before Tezca pushes him with one foot. "We'll go out," she promises the jaguar, who then turns his attention on the tortoise. If nothing else, it presents an intellectual challenge, right?
Phoebe gives a curtsey to Lazarus, "Your Grace.." she muses out in soft undertones, her mismatched eyes regarding the once-Duke with a diligent gaze until she rises back up, slipping her blue velvet glove back onto her soft, fair skinned hand.
"Then good luck to you in locating him," Mena says toward Bastien with a smile. "It proves to be a most enjoyable conversation."
Lazarus shoots a look to Isolde, something she said shakes him for a moment. "I am feeling younger, Isolde." he looks again to Annabella "Thank you again, Lady." his eyes turn once again to Phoebe, but his face has lost its expression. It is now a placid mask of indifference. "Your excellency. You are looking well tonight. I trust your evening has been going well?"
Bastien leans a bit more on his cane as he offers a bow to the monarchs. "That said, I thank you for your indulgence, Your Majesties, and I will let you return to your fellowship." He smiles. The man practically oozes gentle serenity. The's almost a palpable sense of non-aggression about him as he turns and moves off back into the gathered guests.
Isolde lowers her voice again. Then she nods to Phoebe before starting to move off and leave them alone.
Annabella slips away from Lazarus and the two noble women, the young midwife feeling a bit overwhelmed with all the nobility about. "Have a good evening," she says to Lazarus, before making her way out of the menagerie.
"Good eve, Prior Bastien," Rourke bids, watching the man withdraw with a thoughtful set to his countenance. "Good eve indeed."
Phoebe looks plainly at Isolde as she slowly begins to walk back towards the duo, walking slowly in Isolde's direction, primarily, more so than Lazarus, her steps moving with the quiet grace held to them as her hands clutch lightly in front of her.
Mena inclines her head to Bastien. "It was a pleasure meeting you."
Aileana drinks a little more ale as she watches people slip out and mingle. Her lips stay in a slight smile, pleased that people turned out.
Rourke looks back at the tortoise, and the demolished furniture. There's a few long moments of silence as he considers the tortoise.
Mena watches Bastien back away for a moment, then turns toward Rourke, murmuring softly.
Mogur Imperius finishes observing the assortment of animals, especially the tortoise, and with a smirk quietly makes his way toward the exit.
Isolde pauses with her four guards to study Phoebe. She waits as the woman comes towards her.
Rourke glances towards Mena, his smile sort of odd. "Yes, likely, but all the same." He looks about. "We're busy here." He tugs her toward Aileana.
Shadow is still watching the tortoise. The question of whether or not he could crack into that shell is so very obvious in the lash of his tail, though Tezca looks amused as she keeps an eye on him, as though engaged in a private conversation.
Mena moves along with Rourke in whatever direction he leads her in.
Aileana is just finishing her first ale, the smile staying soft on her lips as chuckles at some thought running through her mind. She does give a small wave to Mogur as he leaves.
Phoebe draws near to Isolde, ignoring the guards as she places her hands behind her back and murmurs smoothly, "I would like so very much to have that tea, Baroness. Sometime very, very soon." comes the chilling words of the woman, as she turns, just as quietly, to make her way, not intending to give much time to reply.
The Emperor notes the Mogur's departure, and he inclines his head towards the mage, if the Mogur should happen to see it. Then he considers the youthful Aileana. "Very nice display, Duchess."
Isolde smiles pleasantly towards Phoebe, "Of course, Lady Forester. I would be glad to meet with you." She looks towards Lazarus and then towards Phoebe. Then she studies the Mogur leaving.
Aileana smiles immediately, "Thank you for coming. I hope this will give you freedom to come to the tower to visit more often." She chuckles then.
Mena's lips quirk at Aileana's words. "Perhaps we can come for dinner some time soon?" Now that all the animals are gone. "I am so glad the menagerie turned out so well."
"Of course. You're always welcome. Bring the kids." Aileana beams as she looks between the Imperial pair, "And I love it too. I guess if I ever turn up missing from the castle, look here first."
"We can have that dinner with the Minister of Trade," Rourke says in agreement with Mena, but doesn't say anything about visiting more often.
"That sounds wonderful," Mena agrees with Rourke, then nods to Aileana. "I'll bring the kids by some afternoon this week. Does that sound alright?"
Phoebe is making her way, slowly towards Lazarus, her features schooled into neutrality as she watches the man, her eyes, those blue-grey eyes that speak of the calm before the arctic storm, fixed upon the facial features of Lazarus as she draws nearer to him.
Lazarus looks to Phoebe and then to Isolde, noting also that the Mogur had gone. Still, he waits for Phoebe, his eyes trained upon her face.
Tezca finally draws Shadow away from the tortoise with a soft sound, the pair turning to approach the Imperial couple and Aileana. "Your majesties," she bows politely. "Your grace. It has been a pleasure to see your menagerie," she says with a small smile.
Aileana nods, "Of course. It's your tower more than mine. You're always welcome."
And then the young Duchess smiles to Tezca, "Thank you for coming!"
Phoebe holds her hand towards Lazarus as she murmurs softly, "Your Grace, how are you?" she inquires to the man, giving a slow curtsey, her chilling gaze watching him keenly.
"Then I shall do so," Mena tells Aileana, then inclines her head to Tezca. "Ambassador. It is so good to see you again," she says with a welcoming smile. "I hope you have been well?"
Rourke looks over toward the arrival of Tezca (and Shadow), inclining his head to the pair of them. "Ambassador. Is something like this utterly contrary to all of Tolek's traditions?"
Mogur Imperius leaves the Ashlan Menagerie to return to Plaza del Arte.
Lazarus says, "I am feeling as if I am in need of fresh air. Would you care to accompany me, please?" The shimmer in his eyes have dulled a bit, he looks a bit confused perhaps. "I find the crowd too much."
"We have been, thank you," Tezca assures Mena with an easy smile and polite nod. "If cold. We're not accustomed to winters like this. Shadow adapts better than I do, as always," she chuckles ruefully. Rourke's question meets a diplomatic smile. "Your land is not ours, your majesty, not your animals. To place a greater beast in such an enclosure would be a crime beyond imagining, but the lessers...Not all creatures are equally suited to life in the wild. So long as they are well-cared for, it is well."
Coming along to join that crowd, Annabelle arrives with two Knights in tow, carrying little Lysander in her arms. She looks to see who's about and dips a curtsey on seeing Rourke and Mena here. "Good evening, Majesties, Your Graces, and everyone." She smiles.
Aileana dips into a curtsey for Annabelle, "So glad you could make it!" She waves and then heads over to refill her ale, her steps swaying a little as she walks in that direction.
"I find the transition to the cold still difficult," Mena tells Tezca with another smile. "It is never this cold on the Fields." She lifts a hand briefly, a graceful wave toward Annabelle as she arrives.
Phoebe gives a smooth, effortless nod, before preparing to follow Lazarus.
Lazarus looks to the others in the room and heads for the door with calm, steady steps.
"It is, indeed, never cold on the Fields," Rourke agrees with his wife, lapsing to silence after the whole discussion of animals in cages. He does get drawn from his silent contemplation by Annabelle's arrival, and he inclines his head in her directin.
"But Shadow is already chafing," Tezca apologizes to the gathering with a small smile. "And I promised him a chance to hunt outside the walls. Your majesties, your grace," she adds a nod as Annabelle arrives, "Your highness. Please excuse us. A lovely event, your grace," she murmurs warmly to Aileana before turning to step out.
"I didn't want to miss it," Annabelle replies with warmth in her tone, "it's wonderful to see this place open now, your Grace. I'm just sorry that I'm a little late, between the university opening and seeing to Lysander, if you'll forgive me." She looks to Tezca as she prepares to leave also, saying, "Oh, have a good hunt!" then moves across to have a look at a few of the animals, "Look Lysander... look at the animals, aren't they wonderful?"
Mena inclines her head toward Tezca and Shadow. "Good evening to you both."
"Good eve, Ambassador," Rourke says warmly to Tezca. His eyes follow her a few moments before turning toward the youthened sister-in-law. "I feel obnoxiously old lately."
"Of course. I'm glad you could make it. Come have an ale." Aileana replies as she returns to stand with the Imperials, her new ale in hand, "Then have a few drinks. It'll make you feel better. Can you believe I was ever this skinny?"
Mena's lips quirk a bit at Rourke's observation. "Strange, isn't it all?"
"That's because, from our perspective you are obnoxiously old now, Majesty," Annabelle teases brightly, giving a wink. She turns to Aileana then and grins, "Ale? You know, I think I might, thank you. How have things gone so far? This is wonderful in here... you've done magnificently, your Grace." She moves to hold Lysander in the crook of one arm so that she can more easily hold an ale with her other hand.
"Oh, it was easy for me. I hired someone to come here with the instructions to make it grand and make it not stink." Aileana laughs now, "And they did just that."
Rourke laughs once at Annabelle's teasing, but only once, and he falls silent to listen to the conversation of others (i.e. tune out). He rocks on his feet a bit.
"I do believe it's time for me to get back to tuck in my children," Mena says, then looks to Rourke. "Can you escort me home? Or must you stay longer?"
"What are those? Moths?" Annabelle murmurs after taking a sip of the ale, turning to look at the horseflies, to examine them better... and only then does she realise that they literally are horse flies. Her eyes open wide at this realisation. "Are those... really... flying horses??" At Mena's announcement, Anna turns to her and dips a curtsey, "You're going also? Have a great evening, Majesty, my love to the little ones."
"Thank you both for coming." Aileana replies to Rourke and Mena before Annabelle catches her attention, "Aren't they fabulous? They are from Mists!"
"You like the horses? Mena had some of those, but they're in the labyrinth now. Or are those they?" Rourke asks, coming out of his haze abruptly at some point. He glances to Mena and smiles, the expression a bit of a private one. "Certainly, Mena. Duchess, I best take my wife, so I do bid you good night. Princess Anna, I'm certainly not running out on you, and still need our conversation."
"No, there are some in the maze," Mena affirms as she takes Rourke's arm in preparation for the departure. "Have a good evening, all! And thank you, Duchess Ashlan. It was a very pleasant evening."
Aileana waves again, "By all means! Thank you so much for coming. It means a great deal that you would." She beams and then drinks a little more ale, "I'll see you later this week, Mena."
"I've... never seen anything like them before," Annabelle replies, looking back to them to see if they really are real, even now. "They're amazing..." then a smile, as Anna dips another curtsey for Rourke as he takes his leave as well. "I'm sure I'll see you soon, Majesty." Her smile is genuine.
Mena lifts her hand in another general wave before ducking out with Rourke and the entourage of knights following them.
Rourke winks toward Annabelle. "Princess and Chancellor, you are an incredible success," he declares, some measure of warmth answering her smile. "Alright, alright, let's go."
Emperor Rourke leaves the Ashlan Menagerie to return to Plaza del Arte.
