Ceridwyn bowed her head respectfully to Lady Rose, recognizing her as the Commander immediately based on the insignia on her lapel. It was also the logical choice being that there was only three Knights in the room and two of them she already knew. She turned and bowed her head respectfully to Trystan and Kellan as well. Though she did not belong to or take any assignments from the Knights of Solamnia they were allies in the cause and as such she responded to them in a respectful, appropriate way whenever she was with them. Turning her eyes back to Rose she spoke, “Commander Rose, I am Ceridwyn of Silvanost, this is Aeolis, Commander of the Gate and General of the Guard. It is a pleasure to meet you, Trystan and Kellan have mentioned you during our discussions in the past and their words have never been anything but respectful. Because we know and trust them we approach in the assurance that you are trustworthy as well. As Aeolis has stated, we apologize for our delay, there are so many that need aid we became caught up in the duties that called to us.”

Her face never flushed, it was obvious she was telling the truth and she looked at Rose with her soft, chestnut brown eyes. She was delicacy at its finest, a true representation of the Silvanesti Elves, every line of her face seemingly sculpted from fine porcelain. “We gladly offer our assistance, and I would be happy to give you a report of what we know.”

Ceridwyn went on to explain in detail all that she knew regarding the towers, the meeting with the council and finally that the three orders of Wizards had agreed to work together in order to combat this new evil. Even the Black Robes were on board to fight. This unification of the Orders was a unique event, having only happened one other time in Krynn’s history, during the creation of the Towers of Sanctuary. She didn’t know if Rose knew the significance of the three orders coming together, but the Commander’s slightly raised eyebrow gave a clue that she must know it was at minimum, unusual.

“As of this moment Rose, that is all we know. I am sure you are overwhelmed with the details coming in, and if I can assist you in bringing together the pieces, please let me know.”

Rose nodded respectfully as Ceridwyn introduced herself and her companion. She vaguely recalled them mentioned in the past few months. More importantly they had Trystan's backing and that made a world of difference to her. The silvanost in particular were not to keen on working with other races, but the reports she had said it was otherwise with these two.

Rose sat quietly as Ceridwyn laid out everything on the table. The uniting of the three orders was not something that was lost on her. It only brought greater concern to the for front of her mind. She motioned for Ceridwyn and Aeolis to sit as she stood finishing her tea casting the glass aside.

"We have all had our distractions as of late... as it was I had private matters to discuss with my subordinates as it was."

Rose walked to a separate table reaching for a couple pieces of parchment and started to walk back towards Ceridwyn. "I can provide you with one bit of information..."

She set the pieces down showing two hand drawn pictures of two individuals one a bald man and the other a women. "Those are the ones responsible for this... Our men fought them at the northkeep. Two mages of terrifying power and skill. They tore apart the forces at the keep and the force sent to retake it all to harvest the souls of the fallen knights in what I assume was for use to do whatever it is they have done."

She placed her hand upon the image of the man "This one the bald man with a face tattoo and eyes like mirrors wielding spells of darkness and death... he was the harvester."

Her hand shifted to the other picture "This red headed devil wielded fire like no mage I have ever seen before..."

Removing her fingers she sat down leaning back with a light smile. "I'm not sure if that will help any but being a prominent mage as you are I wonder if you might be able to tell me who they are?"

Ceridwyn’s face went pale when Rose drew out the image of the male mage. She listened but she was visibly shaken and was taking very slow, deliberate breaths until Rose finished and mentioned that Ceridwyn might know them. “Unfortunately I do…” She leaned back into Aeolis, feeling faint and light headed. Through a sob she leaned forward again and spoke, her voice was shaky and soft, “This wizard,” she pointed to the man, “He is only known as Fifth. There were at one time five magi known as ‘The Order of the Dragon’, They were direct agents of Tahkisis herself and they instrumented a reign of terror about 500 years ago that nearly brought Krynn to its knees. Three of the magi are dead, killed during a massive battle when Nim’Sul lead the charge of Silvanesti forces when the five attempted to bring our land into eternal darkness. The other two managed to escape, but they disappeared, and the knowledge of their existence was passed on through the order of wizards for the purpose of knowledge in case they resurfaced.”

She took a deep breath and started to regain some of the color in her face, “Fifth was as you might have assumed, the last member added to the order, and by all means he was the most evil and vicious of the five. No one knows his origins, which of course brought rise to rumors and speculation, however the best we were able to put together Fifth was not born but created. He is not a god, or demi-god, however he is not born of the mortals of Krynn. The details are shaky at best. One thing I can tell you is that there is no light in the man what so ever, life is not sacred to him, nor is death. He cares for nothing, and death always follows him. I can assure you that if he is involved in this situation it is for the intent of murder, he exists for no other purpose. What perplexes us all I assume, is why the towers, why here, and why the obvious structure of their design. My fear is…,” she paused a moment, “I don’t see how this fits into the movements we have witnessed of the Dark Queen’s army, based on what I have felt, and what I have seen, I think we have a wizard of Tahkisis’ army that has gone rogue.”

She looked up and stared into Rose’s eyes, she could see the contemplation occurring, it was obvious this woman got into her position less for the politics and more because of her ability to analyze and plan, but in this situation there was no sense, no purpose, no logic that could begin to glue together the pieces. To make things worse Ceridwyn offered her next statement, “As for this woman, the one of fire, I have no idea who she is, I have never seen her and couldn’t even tell you her name.”

She inhaled deeply and looked around the room, the Knights were visibly shaken, and she swallowed hard, wishing that she had the answers.



Trystan listened intently as Ceridwyn spoke and when she described Fifth he turned and looked out again at the towers, listening to her words as he studied the blight on the landscape. He focused on the shadows that swirled around the north most tower, his spirit began to seethe as he listened to the man’s description, the penchant for death, the disregard for life, the evil he brought with him. He turned as the she elf finished and watched Rose, his thoughts he kept to himself, it was not his place to offer suggestions or words unless asked, especially in front of guests. His mind was racing, but he wasn’t sure that he had answers, only more questions.

Rose regarded the two with a thoughtful expression noting how visibly shaken Ceridwyn became when she looked upon the sketch of teh wizard Fifth. Every word spoken about the wizard had a sense of familiarity laced within it. Simply talking about him made her uncomfortable. After seeing what these two did to her men she couldn't hold it against the elf. It had taken a great deal of her own will just to pen out the sketches.

Rose spoke softly after clearing her throat "It seems as though you have some personal experience in dealing with this... Fifth." she met the elf's eyes when they looked to her "It is clear as the nose on your face. However that is a different matter that is not my place to pry. As to his companion I am sorry to hear that nothing is known. To not be known by the order and wield such power makes her quite the wild card..."

Rose shifted in her seat as she contemplated her next question "What can you tell me of the Red Robes Rayann and Kali. I have been told that it may be in our best interests to seek out the aid of these two mages. While I generally trust Sir Trystan's advise I would like your expert opinion on this if you don't mind. I am also curious if we know of anyone that may have an incling of information about the other mage... I know it is a tall order but right now we need information before I go to high command."

Ceridwyn could only nod softly when Lady Rose mentioned she must have personal knowledge of Fifth, “Indeed you are in the position of the Rose because of your intuition Commander, you are correct, I have personal knowledge of this man, if you can call him that, and what he is truly capable of. I can assure you the sacking Northkeep, though a massive endeavor, is not the limit of his power. If he is responsible for that, and for the purpose you have stated, and then had a hand in creating these towers we have much more than a serious situation on our hands, we have a crisis.”

She looked across the table at Rose, the frailty that they had all just witnessed, the pale composure, the fear in her voice, it was all suddenly gone, in a mere second and what Rose saw was an Elf with conviction and determination, a strong creature of the Grey Stone staring back at her. “We strike first, and we strike hard, or I assure you the entirety of Krynn is in jeopardy.”

She leaned back when Rose mentioned Rayann and Kali. For the first time today the three Knights saw a smile cross the she elfs face and a sense of relaxation in her voice, “You could nay find two more noble women of genuine heart and mind as Rayann and her daughter. Not only are they gifted wizards, they are personal friends. If not just for their knowledge of magic you would be wise to seek their alliance in this, though I have the pledge of the head of the red order, Rayann and Kali do not necessarily subscribe to the will of the council. Their loyalty is pure and true but they also have a special gift which allows them to walk to the beat of a slightly different drum. Kali was once known as Shulamite, the Dark Lady, you may have heard the name. She has since in the last year been the physical voice of Lunitari, and I would caution you to not allow the youthful looking body to falsely lead you into thinking she is not extremely powerful. Rayann is, well she was one of ‘the bond’, a gift that was given to the world of magic, a gift that would restore the balance in the whole of Krynn, and sparing you the details she has lived up to the prophecy that had been spoke about her. Yes, the family you seek is worth the effort, and I would accompany you to speak on your behalf should it be your wish.”

Lady Rose had not posed the question but Ceridwyn had been in enough of these conversations that she could see it coming. The look on Lady Rose’s face before her statement was out inferred that should Ceridwyn say yes to getting Rayann and Kali involved, she would next be asked to accompany someone to meet them. She glanced at Aeolis, the look on her face telling Aeolis everything she was about to say before saying it, “There is one other thing you should know before you send Knights or yourself to meet them, Rayann’s husband, a Silvanesti Elf is a former agent of the Dark Queen. I only tell you not because I think it is my place, but I do not want to lead you there and trouble brew. You might or might not have met with him at one point, on opposite sides of the battlefield, and if you have I can give my personal vow that he is no longer an agent of darkness. I also bring it up because if it be the case, and for your honor you seek battle to redeem some lost war, you would end up facing the entire family. They do not bow to the aggressions that have been brought against them, and I assure you that what they have faced far outweighs anything that Knights of Solamnia could ever throw their way.”

Roses brow furrowed slightly as Ceridwyn spoke of the former agent. An elf among the dark forces was an oddity to say the least but a Sylvanesti elf was something that garnered notice. Her eyes shifted to Trystan and Kellan to see if there was recognition there. For her part Rose was very careful that her eyes did not reflect her knowledge of who it might be. There was a chance that her assumption was wrong but she could not be certain.

"Your warning is duly noted lady mage... If what you say is true then I have limited options as to whom may be sent to seek aid." She rose slowly from her seat and brushed her uniform straight. "It would appear that I shall have to see to this matter personally."

She knew this was not going to sit well with Trystan. She had men designated for such jobs but in this case the situation was going to require someone capable of not letting their honor cloud there eyes. Her chosen diplomats had seen many fights and had long memories. If she was right in her assumptions she couldn't trust anyone else to this trip. Her eyes settled upon Trystan making it clear there was a reason. She rarely made a choice like this without discussing it first."I am going to need a special detail on this.... my usual entourage of guards may not be perceived as... friendly, despite our elven friend's presence. I want two soldiers geared and ready to depart his evening."

Rose walked across the room taking up her sheathed sword. "I apologize for my lack of decorum... I have been out of sorts since the fight at the keep and I believe that time can be better spent making progress if I cut out the pomp and circumstance. If you have need of anything for this journey or have any other details to discuss please talk to Trystan and Kellan..." Slipping her blade into place at her side Rose strode towards the door "

"Now if you'll excuse me I need to go see the smith about my gear." As she slipped out the door there was a glimpse of her face. Where she seemed casual and lack luster in her decorum in their presence her face snapped to full bearing as she came within sight of her knights. It was clear in certain company she was more willing to drop the military face when the situation suited it.

Trystan shoke his head and shrugged slightly when Rose looked at him, he could not remember any confrontations with an Elf during his commands. He had heard rumors of one that was referred to as ‘Myth’, but he had no personal knowledge or experience with the fellow. When Rose made her statement that she would see to the matter personally his eyes went slightly wide. He did not break protocol or make any large gestures of surprise but Rose knew him well enough to give him her own look that spoke volumes. He could see that she had her reasons for delegating this mission back upon herself, and though he didn’t understand he did trust her command, she had never let them down before, and he left it at that. He could see Kellan was particularly disappointed by the news. Her shoulders slumped slightly and he knew she had been hoping to leave for a while. It was never spoken between them but it was clearly understood that a break from the Keep was in order. He watched as Rose crossed the room and made her farewell’s, and he excused himself a moment, following closely behind.

“Commander Rose, If I may,” Rose turned her head to look at him as they walked to the Smitty, he got to the point, “I don’t need to understand your reasons, but if I could make a request, Kellan would be an appropriate escort for you, she is well trained and capable of security detail to assist you in your journey.” He looked at Rose and dropped the formalities, “Quite frankly Ma’am, Kellan needs to be away from these walls a while. The death of her brother has hit her harder than she will allow the others to see, I think, if I may request it, that she would benefit personally and gain some good experience in diplomacy if you would allow her to accompany you to visit the Red Robes. I have no knowledge of this Elf they spoke of, so Kellan won’t either as she has been under my command her whole career. All I ask is you consider taking her with you, she is young I understand, but she has a good head on her shoulders and would be more than willing to assist you. I can take command here and make sure the Keep stays in order.”





Ceridwyn watched as the Knights discussed the details of the assignments. When Rose made the statement she would go personally, Ceridwyn smiled and nodded. They were playing a high stakes game, and to keep all the chips on the table the highest in rank SHOULD be the one to make the journey, at least that was how the Elves did it. To her this made sense but she could see the looks on the two younger Knights faces, and she turned to look at Aeolis, slight confusion in her eyes as to why they would show signs of disagreement. She shoke her head very softly and then turned back to the room and addressed Lady Rose as she was leaving. Standing Ceridwyn nodded her head and spoke, “I suggest we leave sooner than later Commander, as I said, we need to be making our moves before the other side has a chance to put all their pieces on the board.”

Ceridwyn left it at that. It was becoming clear that she was not your average Elf, she was more than just a white robed mage, she had the ability to walk the walk, she was more than a politician or a diplomat, she was a doer. “Send a runner when you are ready to depart, and we will leave at once. Aeolis and I can be ready on a moment’s notice.” She nodded respectfully and watched the Commander exit the room.

Aeolis left the talking to Ceri. After all, he wasn’t as versed in talking about such things with the finery she was. His tactics would have been more forward and less diplomatic. In most cases he would have come across rude and arrogant when in fact he was just stating the facts as they were without sugar coating them. It was an asset and a liability all at the same time. It just depended upon who he was talking to how it would be perceived. In this case he was quite certain Lady Rose would have found his manners offensive.

What made the Elf break his usual stoic appearance was when Ceri spoke about this mage called Fifth. He could feel her tremble when she back into him and he instantly reached out to support her trembling body. He’d only felt this from her one other time and that was when she was describing to him what she had suffered the last time she had fallen in love. It didn’t take a learned scholar to figure out this Fifth was the one that had taken her first love and child from her. Knowing what she had been through at this mage’s h and already made Aeolis’ arms hold her closer to him while at the same time want to rip the mage’s head from his shoulders.

As Ceri regained her composure Aeolis released his firm hold on her but kept his hand centered on the small of her back just to let her know he was still with her no matter what. When the Commander mentioned Rayann and Kali, Aeolis’ eyes looked from Trystan to Rose to Kellan then back to Rose. It was no surprise these Knights had heard of the two. But he wasn’t sure if they realized who Rayann’s husband is.

When Ceri looked at him he knew she was about to enlighten them. He studied the three faces of the Knights before him to see how they were going to take the news. He caught the slightest spark of recognition in Rose’s eyes but there was nothing to note in Trystan and Kellan’s eyes. Obviously they had never dealt with Myth. As Rose announced she would be the one to take on this task herself, Aeolis’ was not surprised by her decision. After all, it would only be right for her to do so considering the magnitude of the meeting itself. Already Aeolis’ mind was working and he knew the one Lady knight would be a good member to join Rose. With no preconceived notion or agenda, she would approach the meeting with an open mind and be less likely to be so defensive.

As Trystan excused himself and followed closely behind Rose, Aeolis glanced over at Kellan and smiled ever so slightly as he and Ceri stood with her. As Ceri asked them to send a runner, Aeolis nodded to the Lady Knight as he recognized the disappointment in her body language. His accented words were spoken with sincerity.

”Safe journeys to you, Lady Kellan. May the stars light your path.”

With that said, he turned on his heel and followed Ceri back to their room as he began gathering his things. Using their native language, he spoke to Ceri.

”Lady Kellan would be a good person to send with Rose. She does not know who Rayann’s husband is. She would have no history to cloud her judgment of him. But I will respect who ever the Commander chooses.”






Kellan smiled at the Elves when they entered the room. She could see by their interaction they were both quite taken with each other and she was glad to see they were reunited. As they sat listening to what Rose and Ceri conveyed to each other, Kellan kept her hopes high as the discussion of the Red Robes came up. But when Rose stated she would take on the task herself and have only two others with her, Kellan felt her hopes dashed upon jagged rocks.

Unable to prevent it, her shoulders slumped slightly and she cast her gaze down at the floor. While she would stay and do her duty to the fullest and then some, she was hoping to get a break from this place and perhaps a change of scenery would do her heart and mind some good.

As Rose stood and excused herself, shortly followed by Trystan, Kellan stood as well and gave a salute to both. As Rose and Trystan left the room, leaving her with Ceri and Aeolis, Kellan suddenly felt very isolated. Not that she feared for anything, but she was now alone with the Elves.

When Aeolis turned and smiled, Kellan felt her lips curl up slightly in a smile of her own. As he parted with his words, she found them strange but smiled even more all the same. Something about them brought hope back to her again. Perhaps she wouldn’t be able to accompany Lady Rose but perhaps something else will come up she could help with. As the Elves departed the room, she called after them remembering a phrase Liam taught her Elves were fond of saying to each other.

”May your ways be green and golden.”

When they left the room, she cast her eyes towards the ceiling and whispered softly.

”I’ll bring you peace, Liam. I give you my word I will.”

Nodding her head to no one in particular, she made her way out of Rose’s quarters to once more aid the citizens of Heartlund any way she could.

Almost on que she heard Trystan following behind her. She slowed her pace turning to listen to what he had to say. Her eyebrow raised slightly as he recomended Kellan join her on her trip, but the reasons that followed made a great deal of sense to her. Though young she had a way with words and she could be as diligent as her mentor. More to the point Trystan was right, she needed to get her mind off her brother and she wouldn't be able to do that here staring at those infernal towers.

"Your recomendation is duly noted then Trystan... I think that I would prefer to have you both at my side but you are needed here in my absense. Kellan will make a fine replacement. Be mindful that whoever joins her has a similar war record. I do not want someone with a history of battles under their belt. People may not agree but trust me it is in our best interest not to have someone on this trip that could complicate things."
It was clear she had a clue who the elf might be and she was taking steps to minimize confrontation.

As they approached the smithy she smiled to Trystan and gave a sharop salute "Now I believe you have preperations to make Sir Trystan... I suggest you be quick about it cause I want to leave the moment my gear is ready."

Trystan hid his smile of relief that the Commander had listened to his words. It was not so much that she was taking Kellan, in fact he would secretly miss her very much, but more that she trusted his judgement and listened to his words even though she greatly outranked him. He returned her salute and spoke, “I will inform Lady Kellan that she will be accompanying you, and I will inform the Elves, though knowing Ceridwyn and Aeolis as I do I can almost guarantee that they will be ready in the next 15 minutes.”

He released his salute and turned on his heels, heading back to the room where the group had just been meeting. He stepped in just as Kellan was preparing to leave, he nearly hit her with the door as he pushed it open and she stepped back with a look of surprise on her face. He smiled as he shut the door behind him and then suddenly realized they were alone. The curtains were still drawn and he felt himself flush slightly as the reality came over him. Leaning against the only door out he smiled warmly and spoke, “I have spoken to Lady Rose, you are to accompany her to the Glen Durel region to speak with the Red Robes. I felt you could use the break, though you will still be working you will have a two day ride to just relax and let your mind rest. I apologize that I jumped to react before speaking with you, but I felt if I didn’t speak quickly Lady Rose might find people to go and you would be left behind. This is a big assignment for you, I recommend you watch, listen, and learn all that you can. Lady Rose is a sharp negotiator, and she is a fantastic leader as you know. You will learn a lot from her in a very short time if you open yourself to the opportunity.”

He smiled warmly, she could see in his eyes that he would miss her and then she heard the latch to the door lock and would see his hand withdrawing from behind him. After having locked the door so no one would enter he took a dangerous step towards her and swallowed hard. “I am about to break protocol as well as jeopardize my command, so I suggest you step back if you don’t agree with my next maneuver…,” He grasped her strongly by the shoulders and pulled her towards him, his lips closing the gap towards her rapidly.



Ceridwyn slung her small bag over her shoulder and tucked her spell books neatly into her robes. They disappeared into the secret folds of her robes and she turned, looking at Aeolis. He was already packed as well. “I suppose we should go get some rations, though I don’t doubt we could easily find food in the forests along the way it might be easier and more restful to rely on rations instead of foraging.”

She walked forward and gently placed her hand into his, looking up at him and waiting for him to lead the way.

Kellan was ready to waylay whoever was barreling through the door and had even put her hand on the hilt of her blade when she saw Trystan’s face appear before her again. The fact the door was closed behind him didn’t go unnoticed and as he began speaking, her eyes were focused on that door over his shoulder. But when he explained to her what transpired when he left to follow Lady Rose, her eyes found his once more and she could hardly believe her ears.

She was going to accompany Lady Rose after all? By the Gods! Her prayers had been answered! And she had Lord Trystan to thank. Of that she was certain. Her face broke into a bright smile the more he talked and as he explained to her she needed to pay attention and learn from this experience, she nodded her head enthusiastically. She would gladly use this opportunity to learn more from one fo the greatest commander’s she’d ever known.

Kellan’s smile faded though when she heard the door latch behind Trystan and saw his hand retreat from his back. She heard his warning but it didn’t register or she simply refused to hear it. Either way when he grabbed her by the shoulders and brought her towards him she didn’t try to fight the kiss. Her lips touched his and she felt as though the world stopped spinning. Instinctively she melted into him and returned the kiss with her own fire.

As much as Kellan would have loved for that kiss to continue and never stop, and even share more, her mind came back to reality and as much as she didn’t want to break the contact between them, she knew, for his sake more than hers, she needed to stop things from going any further. At least at the moment. Pressing her hands against his chest, she reluctantly broke the kiss and pushed herself back away from him. She felt his resistance at first but then reality must have set in for him as well for she felt his hold on her loosen allowing her to step back away from him.

Her lips still tingled and her heart was racing. Her cheeks were flushed while her face retained a pale look. Her light brown eyes were wide and held a look to them Trystan had never seen before. One that would remind him of what a caged animal looked like. Frightened yet fierce all at the same time. Her hands now rested at her sides curled into loose fists and her chest rose and fell rapidly with her quickened breath. She didn’t say anything at first and it seemed as though she didn’t know what to do. And that was so close to the truth.

Finally Kellan took a deep breath and let it out slowly. When she spoke, her voice had changed. It now held a slight huskiness to it as she talked to Trystan. Even as she kept her voice low for his ears only in case there were others close by. He would now see, for the first time, the depths of her feelings for him she had been able to keep so well hidden for so long. While they both knew there was SOMETHING there between them, they had never acted on it. Until now.

”I’ve waited for this moment for so long and I would give anything for it to not end. What I feel for you I can’t explain. I will miss you greatly while I am away, Trys. So very much. But….I can’t let you ruin your career. You’ve worked too hard for this. Don’t throw it away because of me. Even though I want nothing more than to feel your arms around me again. One day…..I pray we will have our time for I want that more than anything. But right now…..our duties prevent us from that. Promise me you will be safe while I am gone. Please.”

She dared to step up to him and take a hold of his hand in her trembling one then quickly release it knowing if she didn’t she would say to hell with protocol and kiss him again.






Aeolis nodded in agreement with Ceri then leaned closer and kissed her forehead before pulling back and smiling.

”Finding food will not be an issue for us but I would think our Solamnic friends would appreciate your forethought. As do I.”

Closing his hand around hers, he led her out into the streets of Heartlund and waited for the commander to arrive letting them know she was ready to go.

The fires of the smithy roared and hamers beat away as Rose entered. Her eyes drifted around the room for a moment till someone called her name. She could barely here it over the hammers as the smith's apprentices worked. She smiled as a bushy bearded dwarf strode up with a grin. "Yer impatient as ever aren't ye lass... "

Rose chuckled happily as she shook her head in response. "You know me to well Flint... I feel absolutely naked without my gear when I am away from home." Her smile faded slightly "Sadly though it is duty not impatience that has brought me here. I have a line of inquery to follow about those towers and I am afraid time is of the essence. I wanted to see how close you were to being doing because I intend to leave the moment you finish."

Stroking his beard the smith Flint sighed lightly spinning on his heel. "C'mon commander... I was just finishing with the leather straps and then you'll be good to go. I don't know what kind of scrap you were in but you had one to many close calls from the looks of things. What in blazes were you fighting? gnolls? Trolls?"

Her response was quiet but clear "Mages Flint.... two mages."

The old dwarf slowed looking back at her and shook his head. "Aye I've heard the tale from your guards. They told me about it when they came in for their gear so I won't be askin fer more details." They approached a large table where Rose's armor was laid out and Flint sat reaching for pieces as he began to reassemble the verious parts. "I'll not ask ye about your business then... wouldn't be proper of me... but I will say watch yer back. Mages are right nasty business."

"A fact I have become all to familiar with I am afraid..." Rose sighed looking away from the table as Flint worked. It would only take him a short period of tie to finish reassembly of her armor. She excused herself and went to her quarters getting out of her formal attire donning instead the underlayer of her gear. As she finished there was a knock at her door and in came larrisa with Rose's finished armor.

"Your uncanny ability to be on top of things will forever astound me." Larrisa only smiled and stood waiting to help Rose get her gear on.

In all it took only an hour fromt he end of the meeting for Rose to be ready to go. She emerged from her quarters armor newly repaired and freshly polished. Flint was an amazing smith and she was ever greatful for his efficiency. Larrisa had already provisioned her horse so all she had to do now was wait for the party to assemble. Larrisa was already on her way to let the others know she was ready to leave.

Trystan felt like his body had been blown from a canon. The scent of her, the warmth of her lips and the quick breathes that were escaping her nostrils and tickling his cheek were moments that fleeted all too fast. When she broke away he did not stop her, but he regretted that he could not grab her and pull her in close once again. The sensation was like one who was starving and had stared at a delightful plate of food for days, now that the taste was in the mouth, he yearned for more.

Clearing his throat he unclasped the lock and returned her words in a soft whisper, “Kellan, my career is not in jeopardy, only you staying under my command. I cannot be busted down in rank for falling in love, but you will be removed from under my command should our feelings be known. Lady Rose already knows of the feelings between us, it was obvious the way she questioned me when I recommended you for accommodation. Her look upon me was all telling, she knows that I care for you deeply, and you for me. She is a wise commander, and she won’t do anything unless we act inappropriately, which unfortunately is all I want right now.”

He smiled with a slight flush of cheeks and continued, “I will promise to stay safe only if you return the favor, please come back, I will be waiting for your return, hopefully with a couple wizards.” He winked and opened the door, speaking in his normal voice, “That will be all Lady Kellan, report to Commander Rose when you are ready to depart.”



Ceridwyn walked with Aeolis to the mess tents and selected rations from the wooden crates, placing them methodically into her shoulder sack. She hummed softly and several of the soldiers as well as Knights looked and smiled as the tiniest shard of hope hung on the air within her tune. She was oblivious to the onlookers and moved about her business, taking enough rations to sustain them for a few days. She turned to Aeolis and spoke, “I just love the rugged, rawness of human military rations, there is something primitive in their creation, yet they can satisfy to the fullest.”

She turned and walked with him towards the Commanders quarters, she had no idea if Rose was available yet or not, but her instinct told her that was as good a place as any to be. They arrived and the two guards eyed her and Aeolis, their stone faces suspicious of anything that would approach. “Take ease soldiers of Heartlund, we are accompanying Lady Rose to Glen Durel in search of aid to this crisis.”

The two soldiers looked at one another and then back to the Elves, “Commander Rose is inside but cannot be disturbed, she is making preparations.”

Ceridwyn smiled warmly and spoke, “Of course she is, as I said, WE are the accompaniment.” Without another word she glanced and noticed two small benches off to the side, presumably for people to sit and wait when coming to have audience with Lady Rose. “Is it safe to assume we can sit there and wait for her?”

The soldiers looked at the benches and one responded, “Of course, that is what they are there for.” Ceridwyn smiled again and nodded politely, “Well then, if that is their purpose then who are we to deprive them of their functionality. I thank you gentlemen.”

She gently tugged Aeolis, feeling his tension at the men’s curt behavior, she sent him a missive, ~ “Go easy on them beloved, they have been through a lot these last few days.” ~

As they waited a young girl came with what was obviously Lady Roses armor. She entered as one of the guards opened the door for her and the door was snapped closed quickly. Ceridwyn removed one of her spell books and was reading, the constant study of magic was the life of any wizard. She did take a moment to glance up as the young girl went inside and she spoke again to Aeolis in missive, ~ “The assistant comes with the Lady’s armor, shouldn’t be too long now I suspect.” ~

She turned and smiled at Aeolis as they sat on the ornate iron bench. She sighed softly and leaned her head onto his shoulder and brought her feet up and under her, going back to the study of magic. After some time the Commander appeared and Ceridwyn stood, tucking her spell book into her robes and bowing her head respectfully, “Lady Rose, good to see you again. Your guards felt it best you not be disturbed so we waited outside and I must say, your benches are very comfortable.” There was a playful lilt in her voice, a lilt that Aeolis had come to know. It was the inner spark within her, the cheer that couldn’t be extinguished. “My escort and I are without mounts as we came here by magical means, might I request that we be lent horses to carry us along? It is a good two and a half day’s ride to Glen Durel and if half of us are walking it will most certainly take longer.”

Kellan wasn’t sure her legs would support her walking but she knew she had to at least try. If she stayed in this room, locked door or not, she’d say to hell with protocol for another moment like she just had with Trystan. Finally she nodded and gave a salute before she forced her legs to move her. Still, as she passed by him to exit the room her hand reached out and brushed his hand. She knew the silent message she sent to him would be received.

”Yes sir, Lord Trystan. I shall be ready in less than half an hour.”

Kellan maintained an unreadable look on her face until she reached her room. Once inside she closed the door behind her and leaned back against it closing her eyes and taking huge gulps of air. She was startled out of her moment when she heard a voice speaking to her.

You alright, Kellan? You look like you just had contact with that fear from the towers again.”

Kellan’s eyes flew open and she turned her head to see her fellow knight, Asria standing there looking at her concerned. Laughing nervously and giving a small smile, Kellan nodded.

”I’m fine Asria. I’m just excited I’ve been chosen to go with the Rose Commander. I guess I was just more excited than I realized.”

Asria had been affected by the fear she ran into when they went to investigate the towers and she glanced towards the window then back at Kellan with a frightened deer look.

"Oh….well….be safe. I heard rumor your going to speak to Red Robes. Knowing it was mages that caused all of this, I’d be a little leery around them from now on.”

Kellan nodded.

”I’ll be fine. From what I understand these mages are not your typical magic users. While they have extraordinary abilities, it seems they have level heads about them as well. I pray that’s the case. And the fact the commander is taking this task on herself tells me they must be something.”

Asria glanced at the window again and merely nodded again.

“Still. Watch your back.”

Kellan nodded.

”I will. Promise.”

As quickly as she could, Kellan packed for her trip. She put on her armor with Asria’s help and made sure she had a change of clothes. Packing everything neatly so she could maintain a good representation of the Knights, Kellan folded each article of clothing carefully and placed it in her traveling kit. Packing a few small blades for personal protection and placing them in different places about herself and her things, she finally decided she was good to go. With one last farewell to Asria, she left her room and walked towards the stables. Reaching Smoke’s stall, she prepared the horse for light traveling. Once the mount was ready, she led him out of the stables and walked to the mess tent to gather up some provisions for the trip, she saw the Elves were of the same mind set. Giving them both a smile and nod, she selected the food items she knew would last for the trip.

Once she had Smoke prepared and packed, she walked close to Lady Rose’s quarters to await the command to mount up and head out. Her eyes caught sight of Trystan as he walked from the opposite direction. She felt her heart skip a beat as she remembered what his kiss felt like and the way his arms felt around her. Feeling the heat rise in her cheeks, she did her best to push those thoughts away and keep them for another time when she could recall them in private. Clearing her throat softly, she maintained a normal stance and look about her face.





Aeolis was more than aware of the looks Ceri was receiving. He did his best to maintain neutrality but it was difficult when so many looked at her with….longing in their eyes. Still, he bit his tongue rather than say anything to them. After all, they were the guests of these Knights.

As they left the mess tent, after spying Kellan, he spoke quietly to Ceri in their native language.

”It appears as though the Lady Kellan will be accompanying us on our journey. A wise choice indeed.”

As they reached the commander’s quarters, Aeolis furrowed his brows as he heard the way the guards spoke to Ceri and looked at both of them. Had they not just shared the same duties after the appearance of these dreadful towers? Humans, He would never figure them out.

He was just about to say something to them when Ceri tugged him towards the iron benches to wait for Lady Rose. Her missive brought an even deeper scowl to his brow.

~It would serve them right to be reminded they are not alone in their trouble. Did we not stand in the trenches with them and assist their frightened citizens?~

He shook his head and sat down, stiff backed, next to Ceri. As she took out her spell book, Aeolis gave each guard a hard look letting them know, silently, he didn’t care for the way they had treated them and spoken to Ceri. When the assistant came by with Rose’s armor, he arched a brow and realized the same thing Ceri had sent to him in missive.

~It is only about time. My arse grows sore from sitting on this damn uncomfortable bench.~

When Rose finally emerged and he heard Ceri’s words of praise for the comfort of the bench, Aeolis rolled his eyes and nudged her gently. When she glanced back at him he was looking at Rose and not paying attention to Ceri at all.

Rose turned to greet Ceridwyn and Aeolis with a smile. Despite Ceridwyns heart felt greeting Rose could see the displeasure on Aeolis' face. Elves could be so odd sometimes and could be angered by such trivial things sometimes. Her eyes shifted to the benches for a moment before she turned looking to her guards. "I am afraid that their unwillingness to let anyone in had more to do with the fact I was changin my attire entirely. My door is generally open to all at any time save for when I am sleeping or changing. After all a lady does need her privacy."

Putting ona bright smile she stepped past Ceridwynn and Aeolis. "Now as to your request for mounts I think we can handle that easily enough." As they wouold turn to foollow her they would see Larrisa approaching with three horses. One was clearly Roses as it was obviously already packed with gear for travel. The other two had the basics and room for other items. The fact Rose had thought ahead like this should not be a surprise. How Larrisa had passed by them all unnoticed was a different matter entirely. With a slight nod Rose sent her off to attend to duties before returning her attention to the group once more.

"I believe these two should suit you well for this journey. I believe we are only lacking the presence of Kellan and whom ever else Trystan saw fit to send along for this trip. I amgine they will be here momentarily."