Spirits of the Earth

Thomas was standing in front of the window in his office. His face was occasionally illuminated by flashes of lightning that streaked across the stormy, night sky. He was waiting for his guest to arrive at his mansion. He hoped SHE would come.

He sat on his chair, sipping his wine, wondering what was holding her. He sent two men to escort her, to keep her safe. Hopping that she was safe, he started reading his favorite book.

It was the stormy weather that had made the travel long. The road was muddy and the presence of a pack of wolves had made the horses uneasy.

Aluria was seated sideways on a big black steed. Her cloak was drenched, just like a dark purple dress she was wearing. It was not often that Aluria had left woods. But after helping a homeless child by healing his bare cut open feet and giving him bread, he had aproached her. And now, responding to Lord Heinfield's invitation, she was almost there. The first time as well for her to visit nobility. She comforted the horse by leaning forward and whispering some sweet words in his ear.

The storm was raging and the thunder was roaring.Thomas stood up, hearing over the storm a horse. Could they be finally here?

He went out of the office, running through the hall, going down the stair case. He opened the door and let his men followed by... Her!

Aluria finally came. "Welcome! Come inside quickly, I don't want you to catch a cold." He said with a smile. "You look drenched, I thought I told Ronny and Waldo to bring the cart with them!" He looked at the two men with a mean look. "I told you that rain was coming boys! Anyway... That not the matter for now!" He turned towards his guest again. "Come with me, my dear, you need to change your clothes."

''Originally there was a cart but it broke due a hole in the road'' Aluria explained. ''We had to leave before the wolves arrived but do not worry. Your men protected me well.'' She lowered her hood and unhooked her cloak. Indeed she was drenched and changing into something dry was inevitable. By removing her cloak and hood it was visable she was wearing a silver comb adorned with charms of a sun, moon and some stars. On her left wrist was a bracelet with fairies with a chain linked to a ring that was on her ring finger. Her dress was in the same shade as her purple eyes with a black mesh scarf tied around her waist. The topcut low revealing a bit of her bossem but not to much for it to be indecent.

''Lord Heinfield, thank you for inviting me. Do forgive me it is the first time I have been invited by someone of nobility. I hope that the uses of my people will not strike as strange'' she spoke. Her bags were drenched as well meaning that her spare clothes in it most likely were too.

Thomas took a good look at Aluria. "Dear Gods! It's worst then what I expected! Even your bag is soaked. Come, I'll lend you some of Lilicka's cloths." He said with a warm smile.

He gave his thanks to his men and took Aluria's arm gently. She was about the height of her sister, the dresses should be of her size. "Lilicka is my sister. She is in the capital for the month, dealing with troublesome merchant."

He guided her to Lilicka's room. The room was large, white and pink. The king sized bed was resting against the back wall, a painting of a beautiful woman with bright red hair. Diverse furniture was scattered across the room in a way that made the room made it look like the room of the The Queen.

"Take anything you want! And please, call me Thomas." He said with his most charming smile.

Aluria was suprised by the size of the room. In the forest she and her kin called home there were no rooms as large as this. ''I hope your sister will not mind. '' her eyes lingered on the painting and the furniture. Hesitant she walked to the wardrope and looked at the various dresses before looking at Thomas.

''Could you give me a moment? I will not need long.'' she assured with a smile. But she would not undress with him watching and the door still open. But to indicate she did untie the mesh scarf around her waist

"She would be more then please to see who is wearing her dress!" He said with another of his charming smile. "I will be on the other side of the door. If you need anything just ask."

Thomas bowed slightly, excusing himself and walking out and closing the door behind him. He sat on a chair, humming a song on the rhythm created by the lightning storm outside.

Thomas was dressed with his usual shirt that he keeps untied at his neck, his born trousers and black boots. But he threw something more just for her, his sylvan set of silver bracelets and golden ring. Though he didn't personally like jewelry, his sister always said it was looking good on him.

After Thomas had left, Aluria picked out a soft white corset dress which she placed on the bed after making sure it was not made of material from animals. She let her own garments slide off her white skin and let them form a puddle of wet clothing on the floor. As good as naked and her skin wet from the rain, she could not help but feeling a little cold but she got in the other dress regardless.

She did keep on her normal boots; they were not dirty and were comfortable. And the light shade of brown they were, was not a bad match with the dress. After braiding her hair she opened the door. ''I am done Lord Thomas.'' she said to him. ''What should I do with my wet clothing?''

Thomas stood up as the door opened. He gasped as he saw Aluria, magnificent in the white dress he offered to his sister. Lilicka never wore that dress though, so Thomas was now thinking to give it to his guest.

"Let them there for Edward, he will pick them up and take them to dry." He said ringing a bell besides the door, "you are magnificent! This dress was gifted to my sister by me. She never wears it though." He sighed. "And she has so many more, as you saw. I don't think she will mind if I offer it to you."

He offered his arm to Aluria.

Aluria cluckled and hooked her arm in Thomas'. ''Lord Thomas, despite it is a lovely dress, I would feel bad to receive it without additional permission from your sister. It is after all, still her dress.'' she replied. ''After all. Perhaps she does not wear it because she wants to be extra careful with it.'' with amazement and smiles she looked at the hall they walked through. It was of course way different then any other building she had ever entered.

''I am honored you invited me. But I can not help but wonder why someone of your status would invite a Moon Elf over. I am just a normal priestess after all.''

"It is simple, my dear. I wanted to personally meet the one who help the child of my serf." He said with a thankful smile. "I never heard of someone that could heal that type of wound, though I am as well a magic user. Oh and gave him enough food for a decent meal."He marked a pause. "Is the child back with his family by the way?"

He walked Aluria throughout the mansion, showing her around and time to time showing a souvenir he took back from one of his numerous trip. The room where the tour stopped was his office. The office was a room about 30 feet long and wide, a fire burning on the east side and another on the west side, two windows on the north wall. The black double door by which they came in was on the south. The wall were covered with orange-red paint on the upper half and black woodwork on the lowest. The floor was covered with a Thanatian (Arabian), dark green rug with gold details. A large black wood desk with many books on it was resting near the eastern mantle, a couch near the western one. The couch was made in black velvet and ironwood. A coffee table matching the couch was in front of it. On the western mantle was a painting of Thomas maybe 3 years younger, the eastern one was bearing a family portrait. Thomas was only 8 years old and Lilicka was about 13. There was a second floor, with large bookshelves going up to the roof.

"This is where I usually work or read. This office was for my father, he never got to use it though. He died in a fire. May he rest in peace." He remained silent and then asked "Have you already eaten? Marie-Ann made diner for us tonight. Don't worry, I specified that my guest wasn't fond of animals in her plate."

He then guided her to the couch, inviting her to sit. Ringing another bell, he ask for tea when a maid came to inquire about his demand.

Aluria told Thomas during their walk that the boy was homeless but had brought him to an orpanage that could take him in after him refusing the offer to temporarily live with her people.

She had looked at the paintings, eyeing each of them with a serene gaze. ''I am sorry to hear about your father.'' she said as she sat on the couch. ''I have not eaten since breakfast Lord Thomas. But eating a meal together with you sounds inviting.'' she chuckled at his words considering dead animals. ''True. We do not eat or wear anything that comes from dead animals. I am suprised you remembered. Most after all do not. Or do not care. Have you encountered or spoke with others of my kin?''

"Only once. I met him on a journey in the part of the forest you live in, four years ago. I wanted to learn more about your people, that I thought all my life were only a myth. You might think that it was foolish of me to try and chase after legends. I wanted to see if you were actually existing and now, four years later, I have the chance to eat diner with one and the most beautiful of them all, " He said in a chuckle.

He sat in front of her. Running his hand in his hair, he sighed. "I ordered some of the finest tea from Yoreiq. I hope you like it as much as I do."

He crossed his legs, his arms resting at the back of the couch he was sitting on.

''I am sure I will. I love tea. Also love brewing it myself. Collecting the herbs, gathing and mixing flavours. It is a sort of meditation for me.'' Aluria explained. Talking about it alone revealed easily it was an activity she loved doing. She did not respond to Thomas' words about being beautiful however. She simply did not know how to. Surely elves in general usually were more attractive looking then humans. But amongst her own people she was normal. Even so, the words made her blush a little.

''I do understand that not many believe MoonElves are alive. We barely show ourselves after all and live away from busy places. If you have questions about my kin feel free to ask of course.'' she looked at him intrigued. ''I am sorry for asking but as a nobleman, how does your day look like? It is the first time I have actually been so close to one. Normally I only go to cities and outposts to trade or help where I can like with that boy.''

"As a nobleman, double with a businessman, I actually have a lot to do. I have to see that my land is well managed, distribute the overstock of food, pay taxes, stop fighting between two grumpy farmers. I also need to take care of my family business. When I get time off I try to read or travel, depending on the time available."

The maid came on, with the tea. Thomas thanked her with a smile.

"Annie is the best tea brewer I ever met in Serendipity... Except you, I guess" he said with his most charming smile.

''As long as there is love poured in the brewing, it can not fail. But if you wish to compare I would not mind brewing for you some day'' Aluria assured and thanked Annie as well.  ''But I am sure I can learn a lot from Annie.''

She gently took her cup and took in the fragrance before looking at the cup in her hands. Unlike the cups she used to drink from at home, thisone felt lighter. Whilest tea drunk at home was mostly presented in dark glazed cups or small bowls. ''For example, this tea not only is one of the finest from Yoreiq, it also has the kindness and dedication of Annie in it. Would I make tea with the same leaves and present it to you it shall taste different. Which one you'd like more would depend on what kind of affection you like best that has been put extra in it'' she gave Annie a warm and thankfull smile before looking at Thomas. ''Are you doing all these tasks by yourself? Is there not a Lady Heinfield?'' There were no paintings to indicate there was but also not nessesarily that there wasn't.

Thomas took his cup. "Well if you really need to compare, I suggest we end this pot and you could make the other one." He couldn't stop a giggle, "But tea made by someone like you must be something that only the gods should drink!"

At the mention of a potential Lady Heinfield, Thomas blushed a little. "No,no! My god no! I never met someone who could fit my rather picky standards... Well not until recently." He said, not wanting to give his interest for her at their first rendezvous. "I hope that everything will turn well, I don't think I could find anyone like her ever again! What about you? Do you have a... I don't know if you have the same rites as us... A husband or something like that?" He asked, a bit embarrassed about his lack of knowledge.

''I do not have a partner yet. Neither someone I harbor special feelings for'' Aluria replied. ''I am still nineteen after all. Although age is rather a deceptive point when it comes to Elfkin. We have no forced marriages since it are the feelings that matter. When someone of my kin has a deep feelings for someone they ask wether it is mutual. If it is, then they find out together what the deep feeling is which usually is responding to their feelings through touch and a light form of intimacy. If the feelings for one another result in becoming one, the two marry regardless of gender.'' she explained. ''But if the light intimate touches already feel even just a little awkward or wrong it already indicates the two are not lovers. They do tend to be very close friends instead.'' It was not difficult for her to speak about the ways of her people. Love and sexuality were special and occasionally discussed openly with her kin too at their baths.

She took a sip of her tea and a warm smile formed on her lips as she closed her eyes. ''It tastes good'' she whispered. ''I can really taste the refined dedication Annie has to you. When we finish this tea and I brew the next pot I hope you will like it just as much''

"I don't want to look weird by saying this but it's quite interesting and wonderful way. I mean, you don't have to play through shenanigans and to argue. It feels more natural. I hope it is too, since your kin is more connected to the nature."

When Aluria complimented Annie's tea, Thomas let a smile appear on his face. " A hint of something that can relate to sisterly affection, I think. Annie and I met when we were 8 years old. She is the daughter of Marie-Ann, the cook. Annie and I played together until I had to take over the business and assist my sister." He sighed and stood up, walking toward the fireplace.

His hand ran on top of the mantle. "My father wasn't very fond of my affection for her and forbid me to approach her. She's too fragile, he was saying. He was right... When Annie's boyfriend died, she cried for a month straight. I never thought seeing her stop. My sister told me, last time I came back from a trip in Connlaoth, that she cried when she saw my wound on my back. I also learned that day that Annie was peeking into my room when I was changing." He shivered. "I need someone strong, someone that is able to stand up, like my sister."

He turned around looking at Aluria. "Sorry! I got carried away." His hand ran in his hair again." He smiled shyly. "So about this tea of yours? Let me call for some hot water."

He make the bell sing again.

''I will need more then hot water. I had a box in my bag which contained some my materials for making tea but did not bring it with me to these quarters.'' And the box was wet, she had forgotten to check wether the contends were dry or were no longer able to be used.

She looked at Thomas. ''Someone strong... there are many forms of strength. Despite going on after experiencing loss is seen as strength, crying is a strength too.'' she paused. ''The wound... did it heal properly?'' she asked. She did look a little concerned thistime. How often had she not encountered battlewounds that had not healed properly. Sure it took a toll from her. But scartissue did had its downsides. Irritation, easier for it to tear. Even could reduce mobility.

"We could go fetch them. I think every maid and butler I have are occupied." Said Thomas, standing up and offering his hand to Aluria.

"You are right. Strength comes in so many ways." He sighted. "And for my wound, it reopened twice. I almost died on the second time. But it's completely healed now. If I get to stretch it too much, I fear it would open again though."

Walking Aluria back to the lobby,with a bit vage stare. He was trouble to his foundation by what she said.

She laid her her hand in his with a gentle smile.''If it can tear open still, I woukd not mind to take a look at it.'' She said as she got on her feet.

''Something on your mind? I hope I did not say anything that was out of my place'' Aluria asked as they walked. The mansion was still something that amazed her. And what was in it too considering carpets, tapestries, paintings and furiture. It took her a little bit of effort to not dash over to some pretty paintings and portrets to ask whom or where it was.

Thomas looked at Aluria, his head tilted a bit and a small smile on his face, "No! Not at all. I was thinking about what you said about strength earlier. You are seeing things a way that I don't. Its something that I like in others. So many are too afraid of me to argue though." He sighed again.

"For my injury, i would be glad to healed by someone with your kind of powers. And I heard that elvish medicine is the best in all Le'ranaa!" He said I the most charming smile he could give.

The bag had been hanged on a hatstand. "The you go sweetheart." Said Thomas taking the bag off the hook. "I hope the content is not damaged by the rain. I could offer to replace them though."

''There is no need to replace them'' Aluria assured. ''After the tea and dinner, if you'll allow me I could take a look at the echoes of the wound and see if I can mend it.'' the concern seemed to have gone and the fact that she could most likely help him was something that softened her expression in a caring one. She took over the bag and knelt down for a bit to take the box out to see ints contends. ''The contends are still good'' she said before closing the box and put it in the bag again which she would take along; it was easier to carry the bag around then just the box.

"There is no such thing as a guest carrying his own bag in this house!" Said Thomas, "Allow me." He offers his arm to Aluria and the other hand to take her bag.

"I don't want to force you to check on a minor injury. You must have so many things to do already, I don't want to importunate you with it." A charming tone coming in his voice.

"I cannot wait to taste your tea!" He giggled.

Why was she so set on his injury was making him smile. Nobody else then his sister (and Annie) ever really cared about him. He was really flattered.

For him, Aluria was more then wonderful. Her smile and her eyes were filling him with joy. A little fire of joy started to glow deep in his eyes.

He blushed a bit.

Aluria had a blush as well when realising Thomas looked at her. She had eyes of people on her before and normally she'd say she was used to it but this was different.

She knew healing severe wounds had effect on her but since he had almost died of it merely reopening she would be more eased if she could look at it and perhaps treat it. And if it was nothing big she at the least could fix it with ease.

--

When back in the other room she noticed that the hot water and new cups had been brought.
This was where she did take over her bag to take out the box. Joy blossomed in her eyes like flowers more and more as she got exited. She opened the box which was divided in multiple 3 layers. The first being herbs and blossoms such as chamomile, jasmin, roses, orangeblossom and mint. The second layer contained sections of various dried fruits and there was the third layer that had a variety of tea leaves. Black, green,  and even a lighter one used for white tea. For Thomas and herself she picked out the light tea and put some in the cups, humming a happy tune while doing so. She then added some jasmin petals, dried lemon and dried orange. The water however for this blend was still a little to hot so she had to wait a little until she could gently pour the water in the cups. She did not know or check how long the entire process had taken her but she seemed to smile even brighter when the tea was done and ready to be presented.

''I made us a white tea. The leaves are not roasted but dried in the sun instead making its taste less heavy then black tea is. I hope you like it.'' she said to him

Thomas observed her way to make tea. Her choices seemed to be calculated and perfect. He smiled again, from admiration this time. The instant Aluria poured the water, a sweet smell filled the air. If he had worries and troubled thoughts, the sent soothed his mind and made him relax.

He sat next to the elf, taking his cup carefully. The warmth of the cup was just perfect. Did she even thought of that? A sigh of happiness came out with a smile. A sip of tea... Thomas eyes widen and he froze.

Aluria looked at Thomas.''Do you like it?'' She asked. Perhaps she should have made a black tea after all. This tea usually was her personal favourite in evenings or rainy days. But she was well aware too everyone had different tastes. It applued to tea, and everything else. A thought struck her. What if he did not like it?

Thomas never had something to drink that tasty. He put his cup back on it's plate and took the elf's hand. "This tea is perfect! Else the the excellent flavors, you can taste something else. Is it the passion and the dedication you have when you make tea?"

He stood up and kneeled before Aluria, still holding Aluria's hand."Could you please come back again, just for tea? I don't think I will ever drink something that good again if you go away!" He then realized what he was doing. Thomas stood up, cleared his throat, blushed and sat back next to Aluria. "I mean... Ahem... Eumh..." He was embarrassed. He took some more tea and enjoyed every drop.

A few minutes later, the diner was ready.

Aluria was first suprised by Thomas' actions but could giggle and laugh about his reaction afterwards.  ''Just for the tea?'' She asked teasingly with a quick wink.''Every cup of tea I make is made with these feelings. But is a little different with their purpose. If I like to comfort someone I will not make mint tea.''

(OoC: sometimes errors slip in the text because I use my phone most of the time when I'm not home and the auto-correct is correcting words that don't need to... Sorry about that)

Thomas invited Aluria to follow him, guiding her to the diner hall. They entered a room a bit smaller than the office. A very long table was set with 40 chairs. A silver chandelier was hanging over it, shining with warm light. Porcelain and silverware were waiting for them at an end of the table. The windows were covered by beautiful drapes made of pure white velvet.

Thomas went and helped Aluria with her blackwood chair. He sat in front of her. "I wonder... How is your village? Last time I went there, it was beautiful. I hope it wasn't damaged, it would be a lost for living beings." He said in a admiration smile, locking his eyes deep inside the elf's.

(( OoC no worries I know that problem xD))

Aluria had looked amazed at the size of the hall and the size of the table and basicly everyone else in this room. She was actually so amazed that she almost felt like when she was little and had been brought to the capital for the first time at the age of eight. Only having known the village in the woods she lived in. ''The village has been fine.'' She assured. We actually slowly, very slowly, dare to expand. More people know about us after all. But every time our buildings are damaged, we repair it.'' she said softly as she looked at Thomas and smiled sweetly. ''Some of my kin were actually against me coming here.'' she admitted. ''They were afraid I'd mess up.'' she chuckled.

"Mess up? You are doing just fine! I am the one who should be scared to mess up actually. The relation between your people and me could be damaged." He said with a wink. "I would also like to offer the help of my house to your people. If you need anything, you can come and ask."

The chef, Marie-Ann, entered the room, two plates covered by a bell in her hands. "Ratatouille Heinfield style with a Thanaty salad."

''It already sounds good'' Aluria said delighted. There were no really fancy named meals in her village and out of slight fear that they would get meat after all, which was something that did happen a few times as a joke, most of her kin did not dare to eat elsewhere like in a tavern or in.

A thought struck her. ''Heinfield style... does that indicate that it is a family special? Or actually lady Marie-Ann's special exclusive for this household?'' she asked.

"The 'Heinfield style' is the way my grand-mother made Ratatouille before all of this... This house and the fame I mean. And don't worry, no meat was put in this vegetable 'stew'. " he explained, his most charming grin on his face.

"May I offer you some wine from Adela?" Asked Marie-Ann to Aluria, presenting a bottle.

''Yes please'' Aluria replied to Marie-Ann with the most gentle kind of smiles.

The food tasted exquisite and it was clear that the MoonElf enjoyed every bite she took. During dinner she did ask a variety of questions and the Heinfield history. When and whom had given it the position of nobility. Also some of this encounters in life while on her turn she told some stories from her side. Also one about a group of bandits whom attempted to find the village to take the women, silver, gold and jewels but that due illusion magic her kin posessed they wondered through the woods for days until their provisions ran out and nearly got insane. Appearantly it had been criminals that had been wanted for various crimes and had been delivered to the guards of the capital. Despite they had received the death penalty their crimes were so severe even some of her kin could turn a blind eye. Though prayed to the Moon and Sun that their potentional next life would be one where they could find the guidance of the stars.

When dinner was done Aluria thanked Marie-Ann once more for preparing such a good tasting meal.

Thomas went on answering every question his quest asked. The family Heinfield became nobility when 
Lilicka took over the family business. She was only 16 but she was already a genius and with the help of a tutor, she made the little trader company an empire. That tutor was the ancient lord. When he died, he gave to Lilicka and Thomas the title of lords and the land that came with it. the only son he had died in a war he never spoke of and saw in the siblings a way to continue his dynasty.

"I traveled across most of Le'raana. I went north to south then east to west. I saw the most beautiful sceneries the world had, I met beautiful people. Some of them still writes me time to time, of they can write." A mysterious smile appeared on his face. "There is one I would never forget though. She is in Serendipity. Long black hair, beautiful purple eyes and the cutest face I ever saw in my life. She brews the best tea I ever had the chance to drink."

Thomas blushed, hoping that last detail didn't gave it off.

(OoC: sorry if this post is too long)

((OoC lets make a deal to never apologise for long posts :P ))

Aluria was no idiot and she knew Thomas did not see her as such. A smile was on her face as he spoke. She knew darn well he meant her and it was hard to hide how she'd usually respond if someone called anything about her cute. But she managed somehow since she wanted to play along.

''Hearing such things about her... I am sure she'd appreciate it if you visit her.'' she said with a calm smile which turned into a teasing one. ''You should introduce me to her. I always like to learn more about brewing teas and learning about flavours. Perhaps I could brew a second one for you to try out before I will work my little magic on you.'' she had not forgotten about Thomas' back. And she would not give it a rest until it had been dealt with either.

Thomas smiled shyly. He noticed by the way she talked that he was busted. One of his hand ran into his hair nervously. He kept playing. "You could meet her tonight, she's around... I think." He said looking over his shoulder and faked to gaze in a hallway like he was searching for someone.

The main course eaten, Marie-Ann came back. She offered desert. "Tonight, it is my special Strawberry shortcake."

Dan smiled. He planned himself the dinner and hoped that Aluria was loving it. He thanked Marie-Ann as she went back to the kitchens to prepare the plates.

''If I did not know better I'd  say you peeked in my head.'' Aluria said with a chuckle. ''I am glad to see the love and dedication your staff has for you. I often see nobility or rich people who treat their staff like trash. It is something that breaks my heart over and over again.'' she admitted although turned the subject into something different right away. ''Strawberries are one of my favourite fruits. Did you know they are family of the rose?'' she asked. The blue rose being her favourite but she kept that as a secret.

"My mom was a servant. I remember her coming home crying. I hated it, I don't want to give it back to my own since I love them as a family." He said with a smile.

He sat comfortably in his chair, cross in one of his leg over the other knee. He took his glass of wine and enjoyed the last sips slowly. His eyes were scanning discretely Aluria.

"Strawberries were a lucky guess, they are my favorite too. I thought that a fine lady like you, considering your kin diet, would love them as I do." He giggled.

''It does tends to be dangerous, guessing someones likes through the diet the whole kin shares. There are fruits and vegetables I'd rather not have although that does not mean I will not eat them if I get them. Our diet is already strict enough and has to be compensated by eating other foods. She looked atthe wine and gently swirled it in her glass before taking a sip. ''If you and your staff are interested I could perhaps make a very special tea from a teaflower. I do need a glass teapot for it though'' she said. ''Otherwise I will bring the pot with me next time I am here.''

Intrigued, Thomas rose an eyebrow. "What kind of tea?" He asked with a smile. "I ask because of the specific pot you need, regular tea isn't that picky."

Marie-Ann entered the room with two small plate, a triangular piece of white cake on them. White frosting and cutted strawberries were decorating it. Annie was fallowing her mother, carying the nessessary for tea on a cart. "Thank you ladies, I'm glad to have you!" He said with joy, "stay around and call Edward, Mademoiselle Aluria would like to make tea for us. I can tell you, it's the best tea you'll ever drink!"

Annie went in the kitchen and called Edward.

A man came in. He had snow white skin and had deep blue eyes. His black hair was kept to his jaw lenght. Edward was around the mid thirties.  "Edward, meet my guest Aluria. She will brew us some tea. Isn't it kind of her?" Asked Thomas to Edward.

"Indeed Sir." Answered Edward with a warm smile.

The sight of the cake alone was enough to make Aluria smile. And she greeted each of the staff in the room once more before she elaborated to Thomas why the specifications were there.

''A couple of months ago I learned how to make teaflowers. It is a combination of white tea, herbs, blossom and flowers gently being put together as a sphere and dried. When exposed to hot water that has been boiled, it can give a very pretty result. But in order to see, you need a glass teapot. I can not make them small enough yet for cupsizes.''

Thomas smile and stood up. He walked around the table and sat back next to the elf. "We have everything you need my dear."

Annie, Marie-Ann and Edward were all sitting next to each other, in front of Tomas and Aluria. They suddenly looked like a family. "I want you to meet the the family that has been working for me all those years, more formally this time." He said, adoration for his servants in his eyes.

As Aluria made the tea, Thomas studied her every movement. He wanted to make her tea one day, maybe even the one she made for him earlier. He wanted to impress her too. Not now but maybe when they would get to know each other better.

Aluria looked at them before bowing her head, thanking them for having done such a good job looking after Thomas. Almost making it sound as if she knew them her whole life.

When everything was prepared, and the water was at its right temperature, Aluria put the greenish grey sphere in the pot and it sank to the bottem. Slowly, it started to open like a bud and a couple of small white flowers popped out. A little while later a red one from the middle. Some of the outer leaves had let go however but Aluria did not seemed bothered by it. It was hard to make them and they had not fallen apart like many others before. ''Not bad if I may say so myself.'' she said.

Thomas smile of amazement. The flowers were well conserved and opened perfectly. "This is better then many people I know could do, though I'm sure Annie will be pleased to learn this from you!" He said, nodding.

He took his cup and enjoyed the flavors the tea offered. "I can tell that you like using white tea. It's less heavy too, so I agree with this choice." Said Annie, admiration shining deep in her eyes.

"This tea is excisite." Agreed Edward. Marie-Ann simply noded with her usual big, warm smile.

''It depends a little. Now it is storming outside, it is evening and dinner has been eaten. White tea is not so heavy and can be drunk after a meal without gaining the feeling of being overfull. Also it brightens moods. Since its accents are with  blossoms, flowers and fruit. While black tea on its term generally can be used to calm someone down in a different manner or when serious subjects are discussed. I would not mind teaching you how to make these flowers if you wish.'' Aluria said and looked at Annie. But tea, be it green, black or white... the one making it and added flavours also decide a lot.''

Thomas nodded. She was really good at this. He briefly thought of marrying her only for the tea. He blushed. Only for the tea? As she said earlier. No, she was kind and caring. She had the beautifulest smile he ever saw. Did he finally found her? Maybe but only the future would tell.

When tea was over, he invited her to follow him back to the study. "I have many things to discuss and some gifts for you." He then turned to Edward and asked kindly "Would you please bring the boxes to my office?"

"With pleasure Sire!" Replied the butler.

Aluria nodded but wondered what kinds of things Thomas wanted to discuss. Also. Gifts? It did peek her interest but also more with the question, why. It was the second time they had met one another so why, would he have gifts for her. Furthermore. Boxes. She decided to wait and see what this would turn into. In the way of her people there were only a few occasions on which presents or gifts were given. Birthdays yearly for the first 25 years and every 5 or 10 years after that. Weddings, gaining a title, but all gifts were linked to the kind of occasion. And the gifts were usually clothing, jewelery, or charms to be put on the jewelery. With a littlebit of MoonElf knowledge it was easy to see whom was what and even their age.

She followed him back to the study after getting on her feet and bowing for Edward, Annie and Marie-Ann

"I hope it won't be to big for you, though I have a solution for the problem of the bag." He said. "But I wouldn't spoil the surprise. They are gifts after all."

He opened the for and held it for Aluria. Lightning could be heard, muffled by the walls of the mansion.

The desk had three white wooden boxes. Thomas took one (about the size of a baseball) and offered its content to Aluria. A gold bracelet linked to a gold ring by a chain. The second contained a necklace. The last one, a bag. "A bag of holding" quoted Thomas.

''Bag of... holding?'' Aluria asked. She looked at the bracelet, necklace and the bag. Actually she was not yet 'qualified' to wear golden jewelery. At least not that of her own kin but did say that they were beautiful and took off her own bracelet with ring to fit the golden one. ''I can not say I have heard about a bag of holding before.'' she admitted with a weak embarresment blush on her cheeks.

"It is simple. A bag of holding can carry a thousand pounds in it as if it was only ten. To grab something in it you must think about it, the bag will put it on top of everything.i personally chose the materials to make it waterproof. Don't worry, it's totally natural and no animals were injured during the making of this bag.  One thing though... Never put another bag of holding in it of you don't want to explode." He smile. "If you exceed it capacity, the bag will rip apart and everything will spill around you. The enchantment would also disappear."

He looked at Aluria while she was putting her new jewelry on. "They suit you better then expected. Those were made by dwarves when I visited them. I asked them to make something for my sister, who they knew, and they made this. I feel bad because I lied to them and lured them to make those beautiful things for you." He blushed. "Hope that you like your gifts."

''I am sure I will remember that. I did not know such convenient magic exited.'' she said as she look''Will you not be in trouble if the dwarves asked her if she liked the jewelery?'' Aluria asked with a chuckle. ''I may need some help with the necklace though. Can you lend me a hand?'' there almost seemed to be something temptive to her request as she moved her long hair out of the way and turned around.

"Sure!" He exclaimed.

Thomas tied the neckclace gently. Once done, his hand gently stroke Aluria's neck. He felt his heart beat faster. His hand went and stopped on Aluria's shoulder. He bent his neck slightly and kissed the back of Aluria's neck gently.

He blushed and backed away, not wanting to be often use nor 'aggressive'. "I-... I'm sorry. Please give me a minute."

He got out of the room and sat in the hallway, against the white marble floor. His eyes went misty. "What have I done.." He whispered to himself.

Aluria watched him leave the room. The kiss had made her shiver and was suprised not knowing what to do. She got a hold to herself and went to the door finding Thomas on the ground. ''You know...'' she said silently as she knelt down in front of him. ''You can not just kiss a woman and then walk away.'' she had that smile again. She was not angry by the looks of it and held out her hands. ''come. There is no need to sit on the floor now is there.''

Thomas looked at Aluria. "I'm sorry... I didn't mean to..."he smiled shyly, "No you're right, I can't just bail out like that." He wiped his eyes and took the elf's hands.

"I guess there isn't, indeed." He stood up and offered her help to stand up as well.

Aluria accepted his help to get on her feet before cupping his face and gently used her thumbs to softly rub Thomas' cheeks. ''There is no need to say sorry either.'' she assured. She was used of her own kin that they acted to the way they felt or better said litterly following instincts but in an appropiate manner. And now she would follow her own. She stood on her toes a little so it was easier for her to reach and placed a soft kiss on Thomas' forhead. ''Come. Lets get back in the study.'' she suggested. There were still things he wanted to discuss he said earlier and she was curious what it could be.

The kiss on his forehead made him shiver. Was that forgiveness he saw in her eye? She was so kind. He giggled.

He fallowed her back in the office. "I forgot, I wanted to talk with you."

He sat on one of the couch, crossing one of his leg over the other's knee.

"I wanted to invite you to stay here for a week or so, if you have the time."

Aluria pondered. ''I will not be able to stay a whole week..'' she admitted. ''We have an important festival coming up. Me being a priestess am required to be there. I can stay for about 4 days though.'' she said. ''If you like I can arrange for you to be permitted to visit the festival though.''

"I would be happy to learn more about you and your kin. And being at a festival would be a wonderful thing!" He said with a smile.

Edward came in. And asked if someone needed something. "I will like a glass of my favoritewine please!" He then looked at Aluria, his eyes inviting her to asked whatever she wanted.

The butler came back with the order. "Please, enjoy sire! Miss." He bowed and left.

He stood up again and took his shirt off. His skin was covered with small scares and his back was crossed by one shaped like the letter 'X'. "I want you to attend to my scar please, as you suggested earlier. Sorry if it's sudden but the soar and ache just came back."

''It would be easier if you laid down on your bed but laying down on the couch should be alright enough.''

After Thomas had laid down with his back up, she positioned herself on top of him, making sure she was sitting stable. Gently she started touching his skin and scars her hands emitting a weak pale glow. ''What gave you these wounds?'' she asked as she continued gently pressing the skin as if looking for something. ''Whatever it is as if it had been something with magic. I can cure it though, and make you as good as new... but if the magic traces come free it could hurt a little. It is basicly what is causing the current pain too'' it would ask quite a lot from her she knew but afterwards he should be fine. She leant forward and placed a kiss on Thomas's spine. Relax. Keep breathing... those are the two things you should focus on.

She started to mutter some words as if in a trance. No not mutter. It was more like a chant. The scartissue seemed to bubble and melt away. Not just the outer scartissue from the skin but also all that lingered in the flesh. But there was no blood. Aluria remained chanting even when it started to sound as if she were in pain or having difficulty. After all of the damaged and scartissue was gone the flesh slowly started to mend and bloodvessels formed itself as well in the process. As final, the skin started to close. The scar was gone but there was a littlebit of difference in skincolor due the new skin not being tanned.

It was silent. It had taken her ten minutes at least. ''It should be ok now...'' she said. Whatever the pressure was, Aluria had fought it and won. But it had indeed strained her a little to much and a moment later she collapsed on top of him. ''Let me rest a little...'' she whispered

His skin was sensitive where she was touching. "I got in a fight with a blade Mage... He tried to get a piece of me while I was looking away. Today, that mongrel don't have hands anymore." He chuckled.

Thomas turned around as she collapse and caught her in his arms. He held her close, stroking her hair gently.  "Rest now, my little elf. I am grateful for what you did for me." He kissed her on the forehead. She was adorable as she slept. After a few minutes he fell asleep to.

Aluria did not sleep long. Perhaps half an hour. She looked at Thomas sleeping beneath her and her face turned red. Realising Thomas held her made her decide it was better not to move so instead rested her head against his chest listening to the calm rythm of his heartbeat. It felt warm and comfortable. Not like a burning fire but something else she could not quite place. Her fatigue was gone and in the end had not asked as much of her as she thought it would while she was healing him.

She moved a little again so she could look at his face and studied the sleeping Thomas for a moment. He was handsome, she had seen that already the day they met. His personality was not bad either alrigh a few actions struck her as strange. But hers perhaps were too to him. She caressed his face with one of her hands before kissing his forhead and let herself rest against him again but did not fall asleep. She would simply wait for him to wake.

Thomas slept for an hour or so. He woke up feeling a weight on his chest and look at the little elf. He almost forgot about her. Thinking she was still asleep, he stroke gently her hair and whispered: "wake up my love. I have a bed for you if you need to rest more." He kissed her forehead again.

Thomas felt her move slightly. He wrapped his arms around her shoulders and gently pressed her against him.

''I've been a wake for a while'' Aluria whispered. ''I just did not want to wake you so I stayed like this.'' she was not sure why Thomas had called her 'my love'. Was it because he just woke? ''I have rested enough though.'' she assured. ''If it is possible however I do think I could use a bath.'' she had arrived wet and cold and was not dry when she had put on the dress she was currently wearing. Having a hot bath before heading to bed would be a good plan.

Gently stroking Aluria's hair, Thomas thought for a few seconds. "Fair enough. I'll get you to the bath hall."

He took her in his arms, holding her tight. He brought her to a room where most of the floor was a tub. The air was humid and comfortably warm. It felt like a warm ocean.

"Welcome to my bathroom. Towels and gowns can be found in that closet over there." He said, pointing at it. " if you need anything, ring the bell on the side of door."

He kissed her cheek and walk to the door. Deep inside him, he didn't wanted to leave her.

For a moment ALuria wanted to tell Thomas to wait. His actions. To her it was as if he'd known her for ages. Sort of like a brother and sister relationship yet not quite that. He treated her as if they were a couple.

She looked at the bath. If it werent for being indoors it would be like back home. She took off the dress and neatly put it aside once Thomas had left.

She stepped in the long water and smiled. It felt good. It did not take long for her long black hair to follow the water either like a sheet of black silk. The bath was different from home; quiet. Normally there were other woman to talk too and with full moons it sometimes was a mixed bath even. She sighed and closed her eyes. Her thoughts quickly making her relive the words Thomas told her. The way he stroked her hair and his lips on her skin.

Abruptly she awoke from her thoughts with red cheeks.

Thomas sat in his study, on the couch, And took his favorite book. The thunder and the rain outside came to a stop. The man went and looked outside. "I could make a surprise for her" he thought. He walked back to the bathroom, but instead of entering he went in a small room next to it. A lever and big chain.

He activated the lever. Movement could be heard in the bathroom.
--
The roof had started moving, it opened right above Aluria. The candles were blown by the wind. Moonlight came and illuminated the room instead.
--

Thomas knocked at the bathroom door. "Are you all right? Can I come in?"

Aluria had been suprised by the roof moving and welcomed the silent sky with a smile. Due the aftereffects of the storm though it was a little cold but nothing the bath could not fix.

''You can come in'' Aluria replied having forgotten the fact she was actually naked, but quickly thought about using one of the larger towels to conceal herself when the second thought struck her that it was better to be naked and leave nothing to the imagination then having something wrapped around you barely concealing what the chest and inner thighs had to offer.

She had more perfect attributs then he could ever imagine. He came near her and kneeled. Thomas' eyes scanned Aluria's body, he blushed heavily but didn't look away.

"How do you like my little surprise?"

He reaches for her face and fallowed her jaw line with the tip of his finger. He bent to close the gap between their faces and kissed Aluria with passion.

He stepped back and waited for a response, a small smile on his tinted by blush, red face.

She was suprised by the kiss and then again, after giving it a quick thought, she wasn't; there had been enough signs. She smiled though. ''I love it'' she said and stood up before stepping out of the bath. Her long wet hair following her like sheets of silk. It was chilly with the roof open and the hot water she had just been in cooling on her skin. She reached Thomas. Placing one of her hands on his chest and held his face with the other. ''I told you before right? About not to kiss a woman and then walk away...'' she whispered and leaned in a little closer so their lips almost touched. ''It counts for backing off as well.'' speaking so close allowed their lips to brush against one another until she finally closed the bit of space and kissed him back.

Thomas smiled while being kissed by Aluria. His heart raced. The only temptation he had was to never let her go. One of his hand held her waist and the other cupped her face. "I guess i should say that I'm sorry then." He said with a charming smile, when the kiss was over. "You should either dress or go back in the water. I don't want you to get cold." One of his hands stroke the skin of her elbow.

He blushed and said "I'll be dammed by the gods but you are a sight for soar eyes."

''Damned by Gods? Why. Do yours already punish you for looking at a naked woman?'' she asked and slowly took a few steps back towards the pool before stepping in to engulf herself again in the hot water. ''You could join me. If you like'' she suggested. ''Although I do not think I will remain in the bath long.'' the journey here already had been a rather long one. And all the new things despite fun also were exhausting. ''As for the festival... I will need to send a letter to Astoraea so they know you will be there too.''

Thomas laughed shyly as Aluria went back into the bath. "Looking at a such beautiful creature, only gods should look at you." Looking at Aluria's back as she got back in the water, Thomas smiled. "I will partly accept your invitation and stay, though I won't get in the bath."

"Ink and paper will be at your disposal and a courier will be ready to go when you are."

He went and rang the bell, calling for Edward.

Edward: "Sire?"

"Please prepare the courier and the writing kit."

Edward: "My pleasure, Sire." He bowed and went to complete his new task.

As Thomas turned around and closed the door, he smiled awkwardly. "My dear? I realized that I only own feathers for handwriting, I hope you won't mind using one."

''It can't be helped then. I do not know the conditions of the bird whom lost the feather. But I will use it thistime.'' she said. Back home they either used feathers a bird had lost itself, or pens made out of glass that had to be dipped in the ink the same way like a quill.

"It is no bird you could find in normal conditions. We inherited it from the last lord, a phoenix feather. The way he got it is a mystery. I hope it will pardon for the only choice I have to offer."

Edward came back and knocked on the door. "The ink and paper you asked for. The courier is almost read to go, the horse is feeding as we speak."

"Thank you Edward." Thomas bowed and gave a gold coin to his butler.

The kit was set on a table, ready to be used by Aluria. "There you go, do you need something to eat or drink?" asked Thomas to Aluria, Edward by his side. The butler wasn't looking directly at her and had a little pink on his face.

''I am fine the way I am now thank you.'' Aluria replied considering the drink. She got out of the water although thistime took one of the larger towels to wrap it around her naked frame and dried herself before she put on a gown.

She took the feather in her hands and observed it a little before she started writing. ''Phoenix feathers... can't say I have ever seen one before yet alone hearing someone received one other then in rather old stories. But the only thing that the stories have in common is that it is a token of appreciation or friendship.''

The letter was not written in common tongue but elegant looking runes which was most likely the writing of her kin. Although the one whom it was to be given too, was Thwendel. ''Thwendel is my brother. We do not look that much alike though. But it is best he receives it.''

"I heard that the lord before me bought it from a taxman of Connlaoth. The way that man had his hands on such a treasure is unknown. The only thing we know is that the feather was used to pay taxes."

Edward took the letter. "The courier will now be on its departure. Excuse me." He said as he walked out.

"Good old Edward, he will never change and I hope he won't!" Sighed Thomas before given Aluria his full attention. "Are you ready to proceed to your room?"

Aluria nodded and took his arm allowing Thomar to guide her to her room.

''If you like, before going to sleep I could tell you a little legend about my people.'' she suggested as she braided her moist her so it would not get messy whilest sleeping. ''Lunaria and Solos are not only the Goddess and God of my people but also our ancestors.'' it was legend wise anyway but it was still a story she loved herself.

"I would love to hear a legend from you. I could stay all night to listen to the tales of your kin." he smile.

The room assigned to Aluria was the one in front of Thomas'. The room looked exactly like Lilicka's without the painting and the wardrobe full of dresses and other clothing. Aluria's bag and her now dried cloths were neatly resting on a coffee-table at the foot of the bed.

Thomas guided the young lady to her bad and sat next to her. "This room as never been used. I could keep it clean and ready for you. Whenever you are in town you could drop by and rest here."

''Might bring tears to the owner of the local inn I usually sleep in.'' she said with a wink. Still amazed with the size of the room. Perhaps though, with the balcony and private baths included it could fit in one and a half times for sure.

''The story I will tell you, is about the first children from Solos and Lunaria. Lovers as they are, Solos and Lunaria can only meet one another during a solar or lunar Eclipse. Those periods of time were the only moments their bodies would materialise and every time they met, they tried to make a child. But it never worked. Then, Lunaria suggested that, would someone pray upon them to have a child they'd infuse the person with a littlebit of their radiance and have children that way. Solos agreed under the terms they needed to guide the children to meet and have children of their own.

The first to pray, was a man whom prayed to the sun. He was not capable of impregnating his elven wife and asked for the blessing. Solos agreed with the terms that he'd give the man fertility in exchange for the first child he'd have with his wife. And the mans wife became pregnant. Giving birth to a son. With golden eyes and hair like the softest Spring Sunshine.

The second to pray was an Elven woman. Praying to Lunaria who wanted nothing more then a child. Lunaria agreed under the terms that the first child would be hers. For the one who wanted a child of someone no matter whom for just having a child would not deserve it.  She lead the woman to a man and the elven woman became pregnant.

The man whom received Solos' gift had shared his deal with his wife. Despite sad she'd have to give up their first child, she understood and respected him. The woman praying to Lunaria however, had not spoken to her man. A baby girl was born with hair black as a starless night. And her mate thought he'd been deceived. Demanding to know whose child it was. Since neither he or she had that dark hair and pale skin. Out of rage, he mortally wounded her and left the baby in the woods. The baby however was found. By the same who were blessed by Solos. Raising both her and their son. But remarkably, neither of the children were picked up like they had expected. More men and women were blessed in the meantime. By both Solos and Lunaria. Those by Solos always giving birth to a boy. Those by Lunaria always giving birth to a daughter. Always they found one another through the guidance of the stars creating children of their own. Whom are the MoonElves who live today. As for the first woman blessed by Lunaria. A beam of white moonlight touched her dying body. Before she eroded and became what my kin calls the Grieving Star. Which is the star closest to the moon on the womans death day, the day when on the Earth the night is longest.''

Thomas wiped a year on the corner of his eye. Why was he crying? The last time he hear a story that good he didn't. Maybe it was the way Aluria added emotion and suspense to her voice as she yelled the tale.

"This story is wonderful. So the myth of creation of your people is directly linked to the moon and sun and to the eclipses? I wonder what kind of celebration must take place when they meet. Is that why the festival is happening soon?" Thomas wanted to learn everything that Moon elves could teach him. "Please tell me more!" He asked with a smile before realizing what time it was. "Dear Gods! I kept you awake for so long. Should I let you rest and we could talk again about your kin tomorrow?"

He stood up and took her hand to get her up as well. He held her close to him, his face near hers. Looking in her eyes, he brushed behind her ear a strand of hair that went in front of her eyes, those marvelous jewels. Fallowing slowly and gently her jaw line with his finger, he wasn't able to find words to express how he felt at that moment.

''Sure we can talk more about my kin tomorrow.'' Aluria whispered. Looking at him with her purple eyes. ''As for the upcoming festival, one of the priestesses is being promoted to High Priestess. But lunar and solar eclipses... they are celebrated well.'' she said and smiled. It was actually a rather intimate festival as well but she would leave that out for now. She shivered lightly under his touch and her cheeks reddened. Some places were very sensitive with MoonElves although it depended a little on the person, this was one of them. ''She let her head rest against Thomas'. ''You are making my heart race...'' she whispered with a bit of a husky voice but still held back a lot. It did not take her a lot of effort. Not yet anyway. She caressed his face before placing a soft kiss on Thomas' lips. ''We should get some rest.'' she said eventually.

"Good night darling." Said Thomas before kissing her slightly and going to bed.

As he stared at the Moon from his bed, he thought all night about his guest, the beautiful elf. He will always think about her when he will look at the Moon and Sun. He blushed and thanked the gods for introducing her in his life. That night, he had dreams about her.

Aluria and him were on top of a hill, bathed by warm and beautiful sunlight. She was wearing a white dress and him, a white tuxedo. They were holding hands and facing each other. he felt his heart burst with joy and love. He saw her lips move but he wasn't able to hear what she wanted to say. He then realized that he couldn't hear anything.
Despite the general happiness of the scene and the joy and love filling the dream, he woke up in fright.

The Sun wasn't up when he got out of bed that morning but, unable to go back to sleep, he went to take a bath.

In the bath, cleansing his mind, he washed himself and prepared asked for Edward to prepare two horses, wanting to ride with his guest in a few hours.

Once clean and dry, he walked to Aluria's room and entered. She was still asleep. Taking his boots of to not wake her up, he walked to her bed and laid down beside her, wrapping one of his arms around her shoulders. He stroke her hair gently and whispered "Wake up beautiful, I miss you!"

Aluria made a little movement but opened her purple eyes. ''Good morning Thomas'' she whispered before a smile formed on her lips. ''Did you sleep well?'' she could hear the sound of dawn with the birds whistling but her focus was with the man laying in the same bed as  her

"Not to bad. What about you? Is my bed comfortable?" Said Thomas with a large smile. "Marie-Ann prepared a special breakfast just for you. She said it was a surprise though." He winked and sat up. Readjusting his collar and sleeves, he looked at Aluria with a look that only someone in love could do.

''I would not want to keep her waiting then'' Aluria said as she smiled at him. Her gaze stuck to him warmly before she got out of bed. Her own clothes were dry and with ease she got herself into a simple deep purple dress with a few silver embroided leaves and brances. She was not sure wether Thomas saw her change. She had not requested him to turn away after all while she was changing.

Thomas waited a few seconds, if Aluria would ask him to turn around. As she didn't, he kept looking at her, TRYING to only look when she was turning her back to him. Enjoying the view, he leaned back on the bed, smiling. His cheek were slightly red from a small blush and he felt like his pants were maybe thigher.

"You are a sight for soar eyes , sweetheart. I could look at you at you everyday and still find something new to make me... ermh..." He blushed as he cleared his throat. He stood up and walked around the room quickly before passing by Aluria and opening the door for her. "Shall we? I wouldn't make such a good breakfast wait. Edward prepared us a couple of horses for us so we could go ride afterward."

Aluria giggled a little when Thomas did not finish his scentence. 'cute' she thought to herself as she smiled at him lovingly but also she was exited. Something that easily showed in her eyes. She exited the room and hooked her arm around Thomas' when he had too.

''Going for a ride sounds fun'' she said. Unlike the day before, todays weather was nice and inviting.

''What locations would be nice to visit around here?'' she asked. She had studied the map a little before coming here but that did not mean she knew what places were nice to visit.

"The village and the beach of course!" Answered Thomas in a smile. "I know a few people down there, good people indeed, they make the best pie in this part of the county. Françoise is her name, and the man who she's married with is called William. Great people I tell you. 'Bill' owns a small woodshop downtown and made me some of my favorites pieces in this manor." He kept talking about William and Françoise until they reached the main hall. "I hope Marie-Ann won't mind is being a little late, I know she's been mad at me for being late of five minutes only, I had to starve until souper to get some food!" He smiled warmly.

Edward opened the dining room door and led them to the table, sitting them closer then last night. "Is Monsieur alright with the lack of decorum this morning? I thought you could be more intimate this way, Sir."

Thomas looked at his butler with a surprised face. "Lack of decorum? Edward! You know me better then that! You thought well, as usual."

"Thank you, Sir." Answered Edward while bowing, a bit shyly.

"No, Edward... Ugh... Don't ... Don't do that! I should be the one thanking you! For all those years of loyal services and friendship, and much more!" He said while standing up and then bowing to Edward. "Thank you my friend. You are accomplishing a fine job!" Finally said Thomas, shaking his butler hand before sitting down.

Marie-Ann entered the room on this last note, laughing as she carried two covered plates to his master and guest. "It's rare hearing a master thanking his servants, but it's even rarer seeing one bow and shake hands with them. Only master Heinfield does it so openly and willingly. I'm grateful to be working for him and not anyone else." She said as she passed behind Aluria and gave her her plate.

"Breakfast is served!"

The plates were revealed. The sunlight struck on the beautiful plate of fruits and pancakes, turning red as sunbeams gutted strawberries, yellow as they hitted pineapple and all other great colors a plate cook by the great Marie-Ann herself could give. Thomas had an amazed look on his face, giving a childish look to his smile.

''It looks lovely'' Aluria said delighted. And looked at marie-Ann with a smile. ''I am pleased as well to witness someone who is kind to their households staff. I heard many stories of it being otherwise. Thank you.'' She said. Perhaps thanking them for this was a bit odd but it was the way she felt.

''It is so pretty it is almost a waste to eat but you made it to be eaten after all.'' She said with a chuckle. With a knife and fork she courtly sliced off a piece of the pancake and put it in her mouth. Soon a blush appeared on her face.''it tastes delicious'' she said exitedly.''I think I have a new favourite dish''

Marie-Ann smiled gratefully, as Thomas and Edward, who was watching from the kitchen door.

"I made them just for you sweetheart!" Answered the cook, " Master Heinfield begged me to give him some. Just to tell you how much they are good, that's why he hired me at first. He said I made the best breakfast in all Serendipity." She then went back to the kitchen and to her own business.

"I think Marie-Ann likes you quite a lot already." Thomas was looking at Aluria with a piercing but warm gaze. After a few seconds, he went back to his plate and started to engulf what was left of the pancakes and fruits.

After the breakfast, Thomas took Aluria to the stables. Two horses were waiting in front of them, already saddled and ready for departure. One of them was Jet black a pure white mane. The other one was snow white with a pitch black mane.

Thomas stepped forward and rested his hand on the black horse's collar. "This is Sage, And the white one is called Winter, sisters. But I think you already met them, since you rode on Sage's back last night."

''They are beautiful in heart and soul.'' Aluria spoke half dreamily as she caressed both horses. ''In my village they would be sacred. Nearly worshipped. Like messengers from Solos and Lunaria.'' she put one arm around the neck of each horse gently and whispered a few soft words before letting go. ''Which one would you like to allow you to take you to our destinations for today?'' she asked

"I'm sure you'll be glad to hear that even here, in my manor, they are both highly respected animals. Many times, I took them out for a ride and they actually saved me when I was in dire situations. You know robbers, wolfs and stuff like that." Explained Thomas, a bit embarrassed by what he was saying. "I would like Sage to allow me to ride her today, I think Winter would be glad to have you on her back."

He held his hand and offered his help to Aluria. "They are dray horses. The largest you will find in the world. Sturdy and hard working. I cannot say how nor why I wanted their parents when I bought them but... I don't know... I felt connected to them somehow."

''Some ofm y kin can communicate with horses. Some also with wolves but that is more of a rarity. And something I should work on improving at some point.'' she said as she with Thomas' help mounted Winter. ''But animals always protect their family.''

"Seen that way, it's true that I was young when they became part of this land." He thought out loud as he mounted Sage. "Where do you want to go first? The beach or the village?" He asked with a warm smile.

He guided Sage towards the exit and then towards the great gate of the manor.

Edward was waiting for them, holding a sheared sword in his hands. "Sir, please take care out there master Heinfield! Culprits could be waiting for someone like you out there."

Aluria had kept her own blades and whip in her room and wondered if she quickly had to pick them up. ''We will be fine. If someone shady comes forward I can create illusions. Moonelves can seem a little defenceless but we are strong too.'' Aluria said after she joined beside Thomas. Then again. Perhaps, just in case. A limited few were less sensitive for illusions after all.

Thomas tied the sword to his waist. "Thank you Edward, I will keep an eye opened, just in case you are right." He turned toward Aluria, "Illusions? Oh right, your people is gifted with that kind of magic! I learned a few tricks from them, last time I talked with one of your kin." His smile bloomed agin on his face. "Let's start with the beach, it's been ages since I went there."

Thanking his butler one last time, Thomas guided Sage on the path running from the beach, passing by the village and directly connected his mansion to everything.

Aluria seemed to give no directions to the horse and it comfortably took her steps next to her sister. The noonelf though greeted everything with a radiant smile and expression. The beach had been several years for her and she wondered if everything still was the same.

''I wonder what tricks you learned though from my kin.'' She said.''Since then it does seem you have an affinity for it. I could teach you a lot more.''

Holding loosely the leach of his steed in one hand, Thomas ran his hand through his hair while looking at Aluria. A small grin appeared on his face. "I'll show you when we will reach the beach, I don't want anyone else then you to see it, I made some enemies over the years. Secrets aren't supposed to cross the gate of my land, just so you know. Order of Lilicka."

As he pronounced his sister's name, a small blush appeared on his cheek and he sighed. When he realized what just happened, Thomas quickly shook his head and ran his hand in his hair again.

''Enemies? Seriously?'' Aluria asked. Sounding very suprised by that. ''But do not worry I will not speak of anything to anyone about my visit other then the most rough details that it would seem that it was nothing more then a dull business visit involving you wanting to purchase special Woonelf woven cloth.'' she said with a wink.

Thomas answered to Aluria with a wink of his own. "I'm sorry but you'll have to stick to that story, no bragging will be allowed. I don't want something bad happening to you because of me."

As he finished speaking, the couple of horses arrived at the beach. The sky and sea were the same color, making Thomas wonder what it would be like to explore the end of the world. The sand of the beach was purely white, like snow. The sound of the gulls and waves crashing on the bank, the salt I the hair... Everything on this beach was making Thomas remember his childhood, when he used to play with his sister. "Lilicka..." He whispered.

Thomas dismounted Sage and guided Winter as well toward a dried tree stump. He only hug the leads on a branch and helped Aluria dismounted her steed.

After she had dismounted Winter Aluria closed her eyes. The seawinds making her black hair dance and stand out at the blue sky and white beach. ''I remember the scent of the sea... it feels so free'' she said dreamingly

''Also. No need to worry. I can protect myself rather well and become scary if I have too.'' she assured him as she opened her eyes. A smile of enjoyment on her face before she took Thomas's hand and ran with him towards the water until they were in ankle deep. It was there she put her hands by her mouth. ''U-RE-I-AAAA!'' she called and giggled. it meant ocean in her own language and was simply something she did when she was a kid.

Curtis giggle with her. He soaked his left hand in the salt water and ran ifmt through his hair, finally managing to keep the revel strands of hair stay out of his face. Admiring the horizon, Thomas raised his hand and gestured in mid air in front of him.

"One of the tricks I learned from your people." He said mysteriously.

The water at his feet, started shimmering. After a few second, from the shiner rose a bunch of butterflies in all the rainbow colors. They flew around Aluria and Thomas, one even landed on her hair and another on her hand.

A delighted laugh escaped her lips and she started to do a bit of a twirly dance between the butterflies. She loved illusions like this. They brought smiles on faces although it was kid stuff. She created some illusions of herself as well formed by various flowers washing on the beach and releasing small fairies and fairy dragons as they opened

She seemed so carefree without a worry in the world like this.

As Thomas was preparing another spell. A whistle could be heard around them. The whistle was followed by a few more. Thomas looked around and an arrow simply dug it's way in the sand in from of him.

"Aluria, take cover behind me!" He said to her "Seems like we aren't alone."

As he said so, a rather fat man came out of the bushes that were growing on the beach. He was followed by three more. The fat one was clearly their leader.  He clearly had an Irish accent. "Hahaha! Thomas Heinfield!" Started to laugh the ugly man, "I told you not to come out your castle again, or I would burry an arrow deep inside your skull!"

"I can see that your aim improved, Jonas! Maybe a few more years of practicing on poor kitten and puppies will make you finally hit my toes!" Answered Thomas, fire burning inside his eyes. Unseating his rapier, Thomas faked a laugh. That Jonas clearly bought.

"It's over lord Heinfiled, I've grown tired of your continuous departure, my people need a landlord who will be able to keep things together! And from what I can tell you are non-stop traveling instead of working with us!"

"It's because my sister is taking of things better then I, if you want to complain to her... Maybe you should try to get an audience!" Yelled Thomas with a laugh, a real one this time.

Aluria had taken cover behind Thomas as he told her. Jonas. She heard the name before somewhere but could not recall. She picked an arrow before taking a step aside. Sortoff anyway. After all they were armed and she had no weapons on her herself.

''For your information, Lord Heinfield and I have actually been discussing business about a trade of goods from my people. We worked very hard and he wanted to show me around a little before we resume. You may want to consider that before judging quietly in the bushes like some, no offense, a frightened schoolgirl.'' she spoke calmly and moved the arrow between her fingers. The calm attitude was perhaps something that gave her a bit of a darker aura as well.

''If you were truely a worthy man you would have been here alone. Or actually not disturbing us at all. If you have issues, write them in a neat letter. If you are not alone in this, set up the letter with others requesting an audience without suddenly firing arrows at two people conversing.'' she threw the arrow on the sand. Buying a little time with conversing was not bad.

''Also... by firing these arrows you actually attacked a Moonelf priestess. My own guards are not really fond of that. They are waiting on my command or one of you even making the slightest of a wrong move. And you will hit the ground before even making it.''

Jonas stared at the elf with his tiny pig eyes. "And who are you, miss pointy ears? Do you really think you could tell me what to do? ... " he listened to what Aluria said about her status. "Oy, boys! Look at this! Master hein girls is having a nook for little pointy things with a frail built!" They all laughed. "Sorry miss, I never thought you were SO important!" He bowed with exaggeration.

Thomas had enough. "Jonas! Stop it right now! It's something that is between you and I and no one else! If there is a grudge and that you chose to settle it with violence, then fine! But leave the lady alone!"

He whipped the air with his sword, while walking towards the fat man. "Draw your sword Jonas, and settle everything with me... NOW!" Yelled Thomas.

''Fenrir..'' Aluria whispered with a firm look on her face which was directed behind the men. Ignoring the insults. A large black wolf bared its large sharp teeth with a deep growl. Was it an illusion? With the shadow, pawprints and the sounds it made it would be a very convincing one.

Was it a mistake of her to say something? Should she have stayed behind Thomas? ''Looks like a dual is inevitable...'' she muttered to herself. ''Since that is the case it should be an honest one. Keep the others down Fenrir. Do not wound or kill them''

The wolf growled again and leapt to the first man with a bark snapping in the clothes before leaping to the second. throwing the first against him before he went to the third. Laying them half over one another before laying on top of them like a dog. Indicating that the beast was actually no illusion.

Other then this, Aluria thought she actually should not do anything else.

Jonas finally drew his own sword, a very long rapier. "I'll cut you to pieces, Hienfield!" He yelled as he sent an assault.

Thomas dodged it with ease, sending a hit with the flat of his blade in the back of the culprit. "Too slow, Jonas! I could've killed you right now and right here, but I won't unless you force me to!"

Jonas' face was distorted with hatred and his eyes were blinded with anger. "Just wait until I spill your guts on the sand!" He said while sending a high downward slash to Thomas elbow. Thomas blocked the assault without any difficulty.

"Come on, Jonas, you can do better then that!" Said Thomas while reaching for his dagger hidden in his boot.

Aluria said not a word. Instead she had her hands together. Like a prayer. ''Lunaria... Solos... please let no harm befall on Thomas... and may death not come here today'' she pleaded in her mind. Fenrir stood ready however to move from his spot.

It was not that Aluria doubted Thomas' skill. But Jonas seemed like a person who would sneak his way to victory. And she felt as well that this was something she should not interfer with.

The sound of the steel over the crashing waves of the sea, the smell of fear and sweat mixed with the salty mist that was slowly rising. Everything around them was setting the battleground.

"See that, 'lord' Heinfield? Even the gods don't want to see whats going to happen!" Yelled Jonas,  swinging his sword close to Thomas face, who just escaped the hit by moving his torso backward.

"I understand them, I'm about to end you once and for all!" Said Thomas, fire burning in his eye.  Usually he looked so calm and composed, now he looked totally different, like a wolf hunting his prey.

''.. Bless Thomas' sword with your radiant light of your hearts...'' she continued the prayer in thought and her eyes were closed. Would a fatal blow fall she did not want to see it. What was the point to this fight anyway. Jonas' words had not harmed or insulted her. But the fact that they shot arrows without warning... was this not all wrong? Had it been a mistake coming here perhaps? No. It was just a bad turn on events. She opened her eyes. Actually suprised Jonas had not fallen and rollen downwards to the water. Or got some sort of seisure due his size.

''..Solos... blind him through Thomas' blade..'' she thought. She knew though that her Gods rarely answered the prayers if at all. Or it was more the actual fact her people did not rely on their gods to much. But for now she hoped that her words were heard.

Thomas skillfully dodged and skipped around Jonas, waiting for an opening to strike. "You can't run away forever, scumbag!" said the fat man.

"I could do this all day, Jonas!..."

Through the mist, a single ray of light pierced and stroke Thomas blade, making is refract the light and set the air around it look like it was on fire. Thomas raised his sword and sent a a horizontal swing of his blade toward Jonas face.

Blood was drawn and a head rolled.

"...The thing is, I don't have all day!"

She had turned away but still could hear the head fall on the sand. She trembled but was not sure why. It was not fear. It was simply that she hated death or actually, killing.

Fenrir got up and took a few steps to Aluria. ''I'm fine... Fenrir...'' she said silently.
The wolf hearing the other men getting up turned around and bared his fangs.

She took a deep breath. ''What will have to be done with them?'' she asked Thomas

"I'll get the militia to feed him to the pigs... He isn't worthy of a proper burial... He tried to murder my whole family one day. And tried again last time I was travelling! Remember the wound you healed yesterday? It was him... I was sure I removed one of his hands last time we fought."

A sad and grim look on his face, Thomas stumbled to the sea, walking until the water reached half of his calf, then fell on his knees. He dropped the sword he was holding and started to cry. "Why did I had to do that?..." He whispered in a broken voice. After a few minutes of crying, he walked out of the water and went towards the bushes and vomit.

He walked back to the water and sat in it, letting the sea wash him as the tide rose slowly.

''He was a horrible person... it may not seem like it now but... I am sure that if it had not happened he would have hurt more people.'' she dropped on her knees behind him placing one hand on his forhead. ''and your blade shone with the radiance of the sun. What is done is done and can not be reversed. We can only hope it never has to be like that again.'' she put her other arm under his so she could place it on his chest.

He felt her hand on his head and the other one on his torso. Thomas even grabbed the hand she was resting on his chest and held it gently. "I hope already... And I pray for his soul to meet with whom he was praying."

He remained silent, listening to the soothing sound of the waves and the cries of the seagulls. He wasn't able to think about anything... else then the face Jonas did when he felt the blade penetrate in the flesh of his neck. Thomas was nauseous but his stomach was empty. "Aluria.... I'm sorry..."

''It's alright.'' she whispered. ''Like I said. It may be bad now but I'm sure it prevented something worse.'' she used the hand on his head to gently brush through his hair.

''What about us..'' one of the other men grunted. ''Get this wolf off us.''

''Just be glad he has not yet snapped off your necks which he would have if I had not stopped him.'' she replied to them with an expression to them that made them actually whimper a little.

Raising his voice though caused Fenrir to growl aggresivly but did not do anything. He did get off them eventually walking around them a few times before barking enthousiastic.

''What do you wish for us to see Fenrir...'' Aluria asked as she looked in the wolf's direction noticing the creature lifted his paw and emptied his bladder over the three now whining men.

Thomas looked over his shoulder, just him time to see Fenrir pee on the henchmen. A weak smile formed on his face, his eyes got their usual sparkling back. He approached Aluria's hand from his lips and dropped a kiss on them. Standing up again, he picked up his sword and proposed his hand to Aluria to help her stand up.

"Let's go home, enough emotions for one day... Don't you think?"

Aluria nodded and accepted his hand. ''We should re-do this again though. ok?'' she asked as she got on her feet. She could not help but to chuckle at Fenrirs actions especially as he like a spoiled cat dug some sand over them. It was not until now though she noticed something was wrapped around his neck and called the Wolf over whom tailwagging aproached.

Around his neck was a woven scarf holding a type of package which Aluria took. A box with what seemed a letter. ''Blaze?'' she asked regocnising the handwriting and opened the letter.

After reading it she smiled. ''He sends his regards... and something in case the weather gets poor.'' she opened the box revealing several shimmering jewels that looked like pure starlight.

"Yes and next time, I hope we will be alone. I want to share this place with you and only you, Aluria." He said distracted by the sound of her laugh.

He walked around and took Jonas head with disgust and went to the horses. He took a random bag and stuffed the head inside. He spat on the ground next to the bush Jonas came out from and came back to Aluria.

"Who is Blaze?" He asked before noticing the jewels. "Wow, they are wonderful! What are they?" He asked, his eyes locked in the glimmer they emitted.

''Blaze is my older brother. As for these crystals, we use them to store sun and moonlight. If our body runs out of the energy we get from the sun and moon we die. And sometimes when it is to cloudy it is to hard to get that precious light. These gems can store the energy as well and we use them when we need the energy.'' Aluria explained before looking at Fenrir. The letter could not gave arriced yet.''Blaze must have figured I would stay a little longer.''

"We should hit the road tomorrow, to get you where you belong. I'll come with you, I got to see your village, and being with you fills me with peace." He said to her, dragging her into a warm embrace. He held her like that for a couple of minutes before sliding his finger from the base of her ear, following her jaw line. He then bent his neck slightly to kiss her.

Tomorrow? Wasn't she supposed to stay a little longer? Or was it because of Jonas. Were there more people like him? She could not think about it longer as she felt Thomas's lips against hers.

The box falling from her hands into the sand causing the crystals to make a gentle sound. She was not sure what it was. Or perhaps she did and did not want to admit it. But this kind of affection... she had not known it before. Her eyes closed bebfore she gave in to what she felt and answered the kiss

Thomas broke the kiss first, after a couple of minutes of it. He had a small blush on his face and a rather stupid look. He kneeled and gathered what Aluria had let go of. "We should get home before we get attacked by someone else, even though I don't think anyone will come for another year or so. Unless Jonas had started something underground."
     He walked Aluria to Winter and helped her getting on board. Once he was riding Sage himself, he proposed to accelerate the pace they had earlier, he didn't wanted to be there when the wolves and coyotes.

Once back at the manor, Thomas called Edward. "You were right! Someone did came for me!"

"Who was it, Sir?" Inquirered the old butler.

"Jonas...!"Yelled Heinfield across end the hall way. "I shall prepare my luggage, I'm going tomorrow, at sunrise. I'll be in my room Edward! Please take care of Aluria for me, unless she want to stay around me."

Fenrir had walked along and had waited by the gate a little and seemed like he was guarding the place.

Aluria looked at Thomas for a moment. ''I will stay with you.'' she said to him. Not wanting him to be alone at the moment.

Thomas stormed in his room, kicked a chair and sensed it fly in a corner of the room. "Why Jonas, why?" He said angrily. He took his suit case from under his bad and started packing quickly the essential for the trip of the next day.
    "Aluria, my love, would you be a dear and take that book on the dresser and put it in my case please? Thank you." He asked without looking, his head deep inside a closet.

If Aluria was to pay attention to the book Thomas was pointing at, she could see that I was his travel journal.

''..Thomas... why are you leaving... are you running away?...'' she asked. Would he leave and Jonas indeed was alone would it not be this estate or even his sister that would be in peril when he left? And his staff as well. It just did not feel right.

Thomas turned around to look at his guest. " I am not running away and I never will! Maybe it doesn't seems like it but my town is actually a garrison. I know a few men who would like to protect my homestead just for a favor and a handful of gold. Good men I tell you!" He said, jamming shirts and pants in his luggage. "I just want to get out of here, to let things calm down and blow steam out a bit."
    The poor man was clearly in still in shock, rumors were saying that he would never walk away not run. But it was actually what he was doing. A gentle knock could be heard on the mahogany door. "Come in!" Called out Heinfield. Annie stormed in, walked straight to Heinfield with fiery eyes, something burning inside of her. Thomas barely looked at the torpedo that was heading for him.

"Thomas! Thomas, look at me! " she begged, trying to make him face her. The man was ignoring her. Annie raised her hand and...

Thomas had a red mark up face and had been thrown to the ground, since Annie was stronger then she made it look like from being built with a feline silhouette. "Thomas, I asked you to look at me! I expect you to do so when I ask!" Said the maid with a calm voice that contrasted with her eyes.

"I'm sorry Annie..." Simply said Thomas, his hand cupping were he had been smacked.

Aluria had released a shriek.''Thomas... please... its enough... what is done is done... so... please...'' her voice sounded different as she was actually on the edge of crying.

Thomas starred at nothing, a blank expression on his face. Forming thoughts was hard and requested a big deal of concentration, which he was lacking horribly at that moment. He could eat Aluria and Annie calling out for him, even trying to comfort him. He sat there, on the floor, a tear slowly rolling of his face.
      He looked at the elf and the maid. "You are right Aluria, I can't run from this. I'll stay." He walk up to her and held her in his arms. "I'm sorry. Like you said, what is done is done, it's to late to go back." He dropped a kiss on her head.
      Annie slowly walked to them and held them in her arms as well, making a group hug.

Aluria felt a bit more soothed.''I took some of their arrows they fired. If we tell what happened people might understand. But we first need to find out if Jonas acted alobe or not. Should have asked Fenrir to take one or at least should have searched their minds...'' she exhaled deeply

"Come and sit" asked Thomas to Aluria, "you to Annie. I will tell you both why Jonas did what he did." He invited the two women to sit on the bed. He climbed and sat while resting his back against the head of the bed.
    "Jonas and I had a deal, a long time ago. He would keep the roads around the town and the homestead safe and I would pay him and is militia with top notch equipment and gold. A fair deal, knowing my sister and I were orphans. But, one day, he came with all his men and asked for a raise. I declined, telling then I could afford paying them double and keep giving them all the equipment thy asked for. My pay was really generous as it was, they had built for themselves a big tower for their HQ, enlarged their houses and bought more land. They had everything they wanted. Alas, they keep coming asking for ravenous quantities of gold and draconic raises.
     I had to disband the militia and to request the crown assistance to keep this town safe. Jonas and his men disrupted the peace of this land for days, bringing riots and uprising to my door, requesting to make the crown hand go away. I had to give it to them, so I made the guard go back to the capital. That's when Jonas some to me and propose to make the militia again. I listened to him but I gave the brigadier-general post to someone else, someone who I could trust. Jonas was mad and hellbent on getting his old way of living back."

Thomas sighed and let the two women compute what he just told them. After an minute or two of silence, went again.

"Jonas assassinated the brigadier-general and with the help of his friends, the three men you saw on the beach today, took over the militia. They started to ransack the town, saying it was my orders. I finally drove him out by calling the military for help. Lilicka was so scared the day the invested the town that she locked herself in the wine cellar, thinking that during the fight, someone would come in and rape her or something." He laughed faintly as he remembered the reasons Lilicka gave him before locking the cellar door. That the military were only violent dogs coming to town to take what she and Thomas had built. That the crown was angry at them for making this town a better place. "It took me three days to make her come out of the basement. Anyway... Since then, Jonas was roaming the woods and fields around town, stealin food and money to survive. I'm actually surprised he didn't died eaten by a wolf or something."

He finaly took all that weight of his shoulders, he looked more calm. He even got his composed and mysterious look back. His gaze was sharp and investigative again.

''Will it not be best to report this to the crown before Jonas's goonies make up a different story?'' Aluria asked. ''Together with them we can find a solution for this I'm sure. It has to stop.'' Aluria said. She was actually kind of shocked at the story as well.

Thomas pondered on the question before finally coming to a conclusion. "No it's not. For the simple reason that the crown intervened a lot during the last year, I don't think they would show up. And even though they would, the threat died along with Jonas. truth to be told, i was paying the men that were with him to be his friend and spy on him, reporting to me once in a while." He said with a grin of satisfaction.

Aluria was confused. First he said those three took over the militia and sansacked the town on 'Thomas' orders. But in the end he had paid them?

''I do not think they took it kindly then that Fenrir decided to empty his bladder over them... heck if I had not intervened he would not have kept them alive..''

Thomas caught the confusion in Aluria's eyes. "I paid their information and whatch full eye. I never expected them to attack with Jonas. Anyway... Enough said about that."

He stood up and walked to his window. Thomas open the door and walked straight toward the edge of the balcony. He stood there looking in the distance at his village.

''Your people deserve an explenation perhaps.'' Aluria said and pondered. ''How would organising a small party sound? Or are there to many people. Or we go there, rally them up. One way or another I think they will have to know. They must have suffered as well after all.''

"I should throw a party and everyone will be invited. Yes, in a few days! Aluria, you are a genius." He said, kissing the elf on her forehead and walking out the room. "I must find Edward, he will be able to distribute the invitation in one afternoon!"

He walked around the house, talking and explaining his plan for the rest of the morning to all of his people.

Aluria looked at Annie.''Willl... he be alright?'' She asked. Hopefulky though the vilkagers woukd listen and things woukd turn out alright. But something told her it was not so easy. Her gaze went to the floor. Still having to realise that someone was killed right in front of her. Wether the person deserved it or not.

Annie  smiled softly. "Master Hei... ermh... Thomas is stronger then he looks. He was the one to cheer Lilicka up when their family disappeared. I'm sure that he will be able to get over this fight too."

Thomas came back, half an hour later, with a smile up his face. He ran his hand through his messy hair, and walked up to the two girls. "Ladies!..." HE started, kissing them both on their cheeks, "I've been planning things and if I had things correctly, everyone in the village will be able to come."

His breath smelled a bit of brandy.

''You are not drunk are you? Aluria asked although judging by the smell, he most likely was.

''Thomas what on earth are you doing to yourself... is this how you truely are?'' She asked. This did not seem like the man she had met at the market back then

"I had only one glass and the other one got spilled on my shirt. Marie-Ann, poor her, she needs help in the kitchen... I never saw her run in there before! Annie you should go see what's up. The party is tonight!" Annie nodded and walked out, going back to the kitchen. Thomas then gave all his attention to Aluria. "I won't leave you alone anymore, promise."
    He held her in his arms before going back to the head of his bed, resting his back against it. He sighed as he ran his hand through his hair. "My god, this will be a good party."

''Tonight... seriously Thomas those poor girls. At the least you could have let it be later this week.'' Aluria replied with a sigh. ''I think I should help them too. I suggested it after all...''

Why were things going so fast. Not to long ago he decapitated someone and tonight a party? It was to late to turn back on the decision of a party and when it would be held. But she wondered why Thomas was acting so quickly on everything now.

''Remember what I said though. The party is also to explain things to your people. And hopefully have the bad things over with.'' depending on the peoples suffering perhaps compensation of some sort would have to be made as well. With Jonas dead the one who caused the trouble would not be able to attone for his crimes either.