A Unique Wedding

[Shin]

The stranger and her guard weren’t the only individuals interested in the not so humble abode situated in the forest. The large building was well off of the beaten path but certainly not difficult to find, something that surprised D’Angelo a little. Personally, he thought the two would have been more careful. He had circled the home and its grounds twice already, surveying the area the best he could and using all his skill and talent in hiding to remain undetected.

It wasn’t until the strangers approached the door that D’Angelo decided it was time to make himself known. He wasn’t sure how Thorin and Nimue would act to his appearance, there was some bad blood between them, however, in a strange twist D’Angelo held himself personally responsible for their meeting. After all, he knew that he could of still had Nimue under his control, but he didn’t second guess that decision, it had been the right one.

As silent as a specter D’Angelo stepped out of the undergrowth of the forest, he came onto the path behind the female and her guard, several dozen feet from the house as well. There was no need to hide himself further and so he pulled the cowl of his greenish grey cloak back, revealing shoulder length brown hair parted down the center, a 5’o clock shadow and perhaps the most disturbing aspect of D’Angelo, his solid black eyes that seemed to drink the light around them.

“Good day.” Nicoli spoke to the two standing before the door, he carried a package under one arm and strode towards the two of them. “Beautiful day is it not?” D’Angelo said with a smile, obviously either ignoring or oblivious to the fact they were both well armed. “Come to congratulate the newly weds also?” He asked, lifting his own box under his arm slightly.

[Thorin]

Thorin barely had time to wash and dress himself, when he heard company at the door. Tying his long black hair, he readied himself to introduce Chizuru to Nimue. He didn't know what to expect from her, only that she had past experience with his family. She had been close to his nephew and he had met her enough to remember her name. There were few people he could directly contact and trust.

Hurrying downstairs, he noted Nimue's absence, but he couldn't blame her. Expecting a scolding later, he made the best of the situation and greeted the phantom guest. “Amariel, you will want to add more to the stew. It seems our guest has arrived earlier than expected...” Amariel huffed, but did as she was instructed.

Opening the door, he was shocked to find not one, but three men at his door. The young man had a regal affair about him and a haughtiness that Thorin found amusing. The guard accompanying him looked rough around the edges, but he was sure that he could be reasoned with. Shaking his head, the third person baffled him most: D'Angelo. They had crossed paths before and Nimue would not be pleased to have him in her company.

Regardless, he motioned for them to step inside. “I'm afraid you have the wrong address and I can only guess why you are here...” He said the last words to D'Angelo, addressing the young man first. The guard never left his side, which made Thorin assume they were here for other reasons.

That was when he noticed the walking staff, that the young man possessed. The staff was not something one found on the road, but it was handcrafted, with an obvious Vuri craftsmanship. In order to possess such workmanship, one would have to kill a Vuri, or be invited into their household. Since not many were welcomed, he doubted the latter was the cause.

“I would ask that you would all remove your weapons. The wife is expecting and I don't need anything upsetting her nerves.” If they did not comply, he feared that a brawl would start out and that was something he was attempting to prevent. Looking D'Angelo over, he could only guess how many weapons he carried, but he wouldn't judge the man.

His curiosity went back to the young man, who held the Vuri staff as if it were their own. “The last person to own that, was my nephew Soren, but he is dead....how do possess it?” Thorin didn't expect a blunt answer, considering the young man had come well prepared.

Sighing inwardly, he wondered how he would explain the new arrivals to Nimue. He hadn't counted on D'Angelo making an appearance, or this strange new man with their personal guard.

Looking toward D'Angelo, he shared a steely glance, daring him to move without placing his weapons on the table. He remembered him from before, he had been the man to give him the locket, which was still worn securely around his neck. Thorin silently wondered if he were here to fetch it. The man would be sorely disappointed. Thorin wasn't about to give it up so easily.

[Kirin]

Tamotsu immediately moved between Chizuru and the other man. Tamotsu's hand moved to his shortsword, but just watched the other man's movements. He, obviously, had no idea what D'Angelo was saying. The thought processes within Tamotsu were just those of feeling generally foolish for not noticing D'Angelo at all. Of course, D'Angelo would be greeted with a blank stare.

"What is he saying? Is he insulting me?" Tamotsu asked Chizuru, using his native tongue.

Chizuru placed a hand on Tamotsu's shoulder, she responded in the same language. "No, he's not. It's fine, but keep an eye on him." She just had those womanly instincts.

"I'm sorry. My guard is very tired. He'll calm down. And I wasn't aware they had just been married. Actually, I was just here for a visit." Chizuru explained to D'Angelo. Now, she felt rather foolish for not having a gift prepared for Thorin.

Her attention turned to the door. She gasped lightly. The guard and Chizuru both just gave a cursory bow. ~That's not Soren. If it is, he definitely did not age well. ~ Once he heard Thorin's explanation, her cheeks turned red and she grew flustered. Her thin pale hand reached up and she untied the topknot, letting her hair fall across her shoulders.

"I'm sorry to hear about Soren's death. It's truly a miracle that he signed this letter that was addressed to me." Her lips pursed together. "I am Chizuru. And how did I get this?" She held up the flowering staff. "Well, Soren gave this to me a long time ago. Oh, and this is Tamotsu, my guard. He does not speak your language nor does he understand it."

Chizuru walked to the table and placed her bow and arrows on the table. She placed a knife on the table as well. Tamotsu placed both of his swords on the table and just began rifling through his clothing and armor, pulling out various blades.

It was only proper to respect their host's request.

[Shin]

D’Angelo noted the blank stare that Tamotsu gave him when he spoke, however, since the women Chizuru seemed to be in charge or at least the one speaking he simply kept his smile friendly and non-threatening. He was about to explain that the two had gotten married and a few other pieces of information when the man he was looking for opened the door, Thorin. Perfect D’Angelo thought and stepped inside the door when he was invited.

“Certainly, I believe we both know how delicate a woman can be when she’s expecting.” The smile never faded and D’Angelo took both magnificent enchanted blades from his belt loop and set them on the table, as well as a chain whip and several daggers he was carrying. Had he been expecting combat he would have carried more items, this was all he carried on peaceful terms however. In normal circumstances he would have never agreed to disarming himself, but this was far from normal.

In most circumstance D’Angelo wouldn’t have to disarm himself either, as a member of the Queens personal guard he carried some privileges. And as an ally he had some small diplomatic immunities as well, nothing so extreme has to protect him from the basic laws, but enough to allow him wiggle room should he have ever needed it. In this situation though, with a pregnant women in the house, it was not worth the confrontation over something so trivial.

Unless D’Angelo was mistaken he swore the two individuals were Cizokian, a land he was very familiar and a language he had mastered in his travels. “Domo arigato Chizuro-san.” He said flawlessly, bowing slightly as if to an equal before turning his attention back to Thorin.

“I was away on business while you and Nimue had your ceremony, and I thought it best to come bring you my gift in person.” As D’Angelo spoke he let his smile reach his eyes, though it did nothing to hide the pure blackness that they were. D’Angelo set the box down on the table next to the weapons.

“It could be considered a weapon, but I believe you will find more use for it in your forge.” He explained before taking a moment to be silent so that the others could also speak, it would do him no good to dominate the conversation.

[Igraine]

“Amariel, dear, is Thorin washed up?” Nimue spoke as she rounded the corner to see all of the weapons on the table. She let out a small gasp and frowned. “No weapons on the table! Amariel, have one of the boys from the veil come and help you.” When Amariel walked away, Nimue stepped up to the stove and stirred the soup that was cooking. She then turned to take a good look at the guests.

“Oh, I didn’t know you had invited guests, Thorin.” Nimue smiled and walked to Chizuru and greeted her with a bow of her head reserved for royals. She wasn’t sure if the woman was a royal or not but it was a nice gesture all the same. Her eyes took in the serious and quiet guard and she bowed her head again. When she spied D’Angelo all of the warmth and happiness fled her face.

“What is he doing here?” Nimue pushed her bright red hair over her shoulder, twisting the hair with both of her hands as if needing to distract herself from the table of weapons nearby. “Thorin, I…”

The sound of Amariel distracted her as she excused herself from Chizuru’s presence and returned to the kitchen to direct the people that had come to help with the new visitors. Two tall elvish men with delicately pointed ears and bright hazel eyes listened quietly to what was expected of them. Amariel was sent to prepare three bedrooms out of the six that were in the home. Nimue disappeared into the master bedroom to change her sooty and plant stained clothes. She cleaned herself up and put a simple blue gown on. It was a soft corset that brought the gown together but also allowed the soft distention of her belly to grow. Even now she was beginning to show – where she was flat before there was a gentle roundness beginning to form. Soon she wouldn’t be capable of walking without waddling – which would amuse Thorin she was certain.

With a deep breath Nimue shook her shoulders and forced herself to relax. Her thoughts were squarely on the plants in her greenhouse as she rounded the corner once more and laid eyes on D’Angelo. There were a number that, if brewed appropriately, could make a person sick. She wouldn’t kill him, no, but what she could do if given the chance…

“Thorin darling, please see that all of these weapons are placed somewhere safe. All of you are being given rooms in the house to sleep in for however long you think you might be staying.” The way she looked at D’Angelo said that she had fought with herself not to put him in the Barn with the goats – and that he had better not be staying with them for long. If looks could kill it was safe to say that D’Angelo would be dead and ground to dust by this point.

Once the table was cleared Nimue gestured toward it.

“Please, everyone take a seat. Dinner is ready.” Nimue took her place at the far end of the table as one of the elvish men brought in some fresh bread and greens of some sort. The other brought in wine and water and a special jug that he sat at Nimue’s left elbow. She poured herself some berry juice and sipped it carefully. Amariel brought in the soup next and the first elf brought in parts of what looked to be a suckling pig already carved.

“Well, everyone dig in.” Nimue smiled graciously as she sipped her juice, her thoughts somewhere else for the moment and not on food.

[Thorin]

Thorin secured the weapons and watched Nimue's mood grow beyond frustration. Even though she wasn't verbally saying she was upset, he could tell by her body language and the way she interacted with him. She avoided direct eye contact with him and other guests. He couldn't blame her, but it wasn't as if he had invited D'Angelo to their home. Thorin was naturally wary of the man, but he was willing to give him a second chance. They would all receive their weapons the next morning, provided everyone behaved themselves.

The foreigners amused him and the serving elves amused him even more. At this point, he was too nervous to eat, his eyes watching the guests carefully. Thorin almost forgot about the gift from D'Angelo, but he pulled the box toward him. Opening it carefully, he was shocked to find a forging hammer. The design was clean, simple and everything he expected in such a tool. He immediately thanked D'Angelo, feeling compelled to test its ability.

Sensing the hot glare from Nimue, he put the hammer back in its case. If she was upset over weapons being on the table, she wouldn't appreciate him swinging a hammer around at the table- especially in front of guests. Whem the elves brought their meals, he was hesitant on “digging in” to their hearty dinner. Considering Nimue was adept with her greenhouse, he wondered if she hadn't given him, or D'Angelo a special spice. Toying with the soup, he simply waited to catch her eye, in hopes that she had in fact forgiven him.

No such luck.

Sighing, he looked to Chizuru, who appeared more feminine than a few moments ago. Her traveling partner looked apprehensive about their meal, which amused him. He didn't understand the language they spoke, so he was thankful for D'Angelo and his translation skills. At least he wouldn't look too ignorant, but the language barrier could be a problem later.

“I suppose you are wondering how the dead can summon you here...I forged his signature. I don't exactly have a stellar reputation where I come from. I am pleased that you have decided to stay and I hope you accept the position as nanny.” Thorin hadn't exactly stressed what the job would entail in the letter. It would be amusing to see her reaction, but she obviously agreed with the price tag attached, or she wouldn't have shown up at their door in the first place. “I am not proud of my action, but it was the only way to ensure that someone would receive my request.”

Chizuru and her company would have questions for him, which is why he planned on meeting with her and D'Angelo privately. Without the wife glaring daggers in their direction, they would feel more comfortable discussing business matters. “I will speak to each of you privately after our meal. If you have any questions, I would suggest you think of them now. If neither of you mind, I would prefer to speak with Chizuru first, considering her position here.” Thorin wasn't the type to throw a man out in the cold, but he had a feeling that Nimue didn't want D'Angelo under their roof. Truth be told, he'd rather watch the man closely, than allow him that sort of freedom.

His eyes met his wife, who returned a seemingly genuine smile. Thorin knew otherwise, feeling the cold attitude radiating from her. He would have to convince her, that he was sane when he made these decisions and that would be difficult with her current mood.

He as grateful for D'Angelo's ability to speak Chizuru's language. Without someone skilled, he would have been lost. The man might have had a bad history with Nimue, but he could prove his worth and redeem himself. Given the context of his character, he wondered if the man even had that desire.
“I apologize, but I don't recall your name. I only know that you were in the presence of Queen Igraine and that you were the one to give me the locket.” Thorin supposed that he owed the man for that blessing, but he doubted that Nimue would see anything positive. It was obvious that D'Angelo wasn't here to reclaim it, or he would have threatened him by now.

Right now, they needed more allies than enemies. He had enough of those. Thorin was weary of the fighting, something he had endured not too long ago. Unlike his father, he wanted to make peace before war.

[Kirin]

Chizuru glanced at D'Angelo with a raised eyebrow. He was smiling like a madman towards her. She tried to be polite by returning his smile with one of her own. Shyly, her lips curved upwards in that seemingly fox-like smile.

"I know nothing about what pregnancy is like." She said with a wink towards D'Angelo, which would have been considered awkward. She was not known for sticking to the social "norms" of her society anyway.

Her fingers traveled to her lips in thought as she heard D'Angelo speak almost flawlessly in her language. Her thought process was interrupted by Tamotsu, who had finally put the last of his kunai on the table.

"He speaks our language. He has an accent." Tamotsu made a face.

"You have an accent, but I do appreciate your grasp of our language. It seems that you have my name, but I have not yet had your name."

But the pleasantries ended with Nimue's entrance. Chizuru bowed to Nimue. She found herself blushing in Nimue's presence. Nimue showed her more respect than D'Angelo when Chizuru was not expecting it. As suddenly as Nimue's warmth flattered her, Nimue became very cold due to the presence of D'Angelo. His case was not getting much stronger.

Chizuru and Tamotsu sat down next to one another. She waited for the soup to be served, then watched everyone else before she ate. Tamotsu stared down at his stew, confused at first. He had never been to a foreigner's table and used such strange eating implements. Chizuru showed him quickly how to use them. She was blushing again. Once Tamotsu got the hang of it, he began to eat. It was clumsy, but effective. She relaxed a bit and decided to just let the show unfold.

Her own shaking hand lifted the spoon to her lips. She had generally tuned everyone out until Thorin spoke to her. Thorin had her attention then she heard the words, "Accepted", "Position" and "Nanny". Chizuru almost choked on her food, but quickly recovered, blotting her face with the napkin.

What did she know about taking care of children? She had never had to take care of them before. This was a surprise. No, a challenge.

"Hai. I guess that is what I have come to accept. Excuse the reaction. I was just, er, surprised. We can discuss this after dinner." She said with a nod.

The meal had fallen to an awkward silence. Tamotsu smirked in his Empress' direction. It would be a nice test of her patience.

[Shin]

If there was one word to describe Nicoli, it would be Rogue. The man has a plethora of skills and speaking languages was only one of them, though he was slightly annoyed at himself with his slight accent, something only someone native to the country would pick up. Still, it was unacceptable by his standards and he made a mental note to work on it later.

“Ahh yes, I spent a couple of years in Cizok but that was some time ago, I must be out of practice. You know what they say, if you don’t use it you lose it.” D’Angelo kept his friendly smile and turned his attention to Thorin as he pulled the simple looking hammer from the simple box.

“The best gifts are always the simplest ones. That hammer, despite its appearance has a unique property.” He explained. “The stronger the will and conviction of its wielder the more magnificent the item crafted with it is.”

Despite Nimue’s efforts D’Angelo could read the women body reactions quite well, she was furious at his appearance, but edict demanded that he at least be entertained. D’Angelo was now a player in the political powers of this land, if only because of his connection to the Queen and the services with which he supplied. He wasn’t foolish enough to outright test the boundaries of that relationship, in fact he had focused his organization in doing nothing but gathering information for the Queen and keeping her safe from the sort of lowly underground individuals that D’Angelo often associated with.

“I am D’Angelo.” He said, still smiling and flashing those pearly whites. “I am an advisor to the Queen and a member of her personal guard.” That was a true but vague answer, one acceptable for those at the table yet hinted that there might be more to the ‘advisor’ role than met the eye.

“This looks splendid.” He commented as the food was brought before him, he waited for the others to receive their food before eating. If the silence bothered him at all he didn’t show it, in fact, he wasn’t the type to let the silence go on for too long.

“Thorin, I hear you are a very skilled craftsmen. What sort of items have you crafted and do you plan too? I’d love to see some of your work, I spent a year with a Cizokian craftsmen and learned a bit of their techniques, after of which I traveled to Xexoria and spent another year with a craftsmen there.” He explained between bites, though truthfully the craftsmen had been weapon smiths, that little fact need not be mentioned.

[Thorin]

Thorin grimaced upon hearing D'Angelo mention his position with Queen Igraine. He had not spoken to her in some time, but with Nimue present, it would not be wise to ask about her condition. They had split on bad terms, for that he was sure. When D'Angelo asked him about his profession, he was more than eager for that distraction. Abruptly leaving the table, he returned with two boxes. One box contained the bracelet meant for Queen Mab and the other meant for Nimue.

Opening the boxes, he let the work show itself. He waited for D'Angelo to critique his workmanship, not fearing the harsh judgement.

“I am to deliver the bracelet to Queen Mab, but the necklace is for my wife. You may inspect the pieces all you like.” Looking back to the hammer, he wondered if the properties really did exist. Thorin wasn't the type of man to care about magic, but he certainly wouldn't turn such a gift down. “As for future plans, since finishing the jewelry, I have none at the moment.”

Noting Chizuru's shock, he felt slightly embarrassed himself. He hadn't meant to put her in an awkward position, but there was little he could do now, except make her comfortable. “I requested someone who would provide discipline and strength for my children...I do not doubt your ability to provide that.”

“My wife is a nymph and they only give birth to girls. You will watch over my daughter, like a second mother. I do not care if you teach her your native tongue, or your culture. You will have full reign over her schooling, unless her mother says otherwise. However, I will be in charge of teaching her how to handle a weapon and forge her own.” Thorin said, waiting for Nimue to interrupt him. Her lips were pursed, regardless that she tried to hide her anger with a smile now and then. He still didn't understand Nymphs, except that they were delicate creatures and tied to elements.

Turning his attention back to D'Angelo he shared a dark glance with him. “Your title means nothing to me- not while you are in my home. As for the Queen, she is not to be further mentioned in this household. I would rather not relive certain memories.” Thorin paused, waiting for the man to interrupt.

“I am sure you know my history with her, since you are her personal guard and advisor.” His emotions calmed. After all, D'Angelo had only answered his question, yet he felt as though the man shielded himself. His past with Queen Igraine didn't need to be shared between their new guests. He wanted D'Angelo to understand the warning behind his words. “If she calls for your service, I will not keep you from your duty to her.” Thorin began to eat the stew, feeling his hunger return. He would be exhausted for the trip to Queen Mab's realm. “Tomorrow morning, you will gain your weapons and you will be free to come and go as you please.”

They had all gained his trust, in one strange way or another. Even if Nimue couldn't understand, Thorin didn't think that D'Angelo was truly a bad soul. Chizuru, had to do very little to prove herself, since she displayed most of her qualities in her character- even her guard showed promise. Eying Chizuru, he didn't doubt her ability to watch over Nimue during his absence. While D'Angelo had his trust, he still acknowledged the past he shared with Nimue.

Pushing the empty bowl aside, he thought quietly to himself, before speaking again. “D'Angelo, I would like for you to accompany me to Queen Mab.” The man could be useful and at least provide company during the trek. Leaning back in the chair, he waited for his response. "I learned my skill from the fae. There might be something of interest for you there." Even if there wasn't, he would at least be watched and away from Nimue.

[Igraine]

Amariel floated in and out of the room, but she paused near Nimue and bent to give her an ear full of rebuke for not eating. When Nimue expressed her inability to stomach the meat, a platter of fruit was set before her in short order. To humor the fussy maid the nymph picked up what looked like a strawberry and bit into it and smiled before returning her attention to the guests. Her gaze slipped over D’Angelo, still begrudging the fact she hadn’t known of his arrival.

Nightshade would have been an agreeable ingredient in his wine mug.

Nimue’s eyes floated over the guard attendant on Chizuru and she nearly choked when Thorin revealed the job she was to commit to. A rebuke was fresh on her lips at the sight of the woman’s obvious surprise, but she swallowed it when Chizuru spoke with a grace beyond her years. Nimue settled into a rhythm of nibbling fruit and sipping juice, feeling like she was going to turn into a berry before everything was done.

Thorin’s obvious discomfort at the mention of Igraine amused her. Her eyes found Chizuru’s and she smiled warmly, all the warmth of before without the taint of D’Angelo’s presence.

“My husband is half-brother to the Queen of Ulster, the country in which we reside now. Her name is Queen Igraine Lothair, and she is the heir apparent to my homeland.” Nimue didn’t elaborate on who or what she was or where she came from. That would come later when Chizuru had time alone with Nimue. It was appropriate and courteous to at least tell the visitors that didn’t know the culture of the land who was the ruling monarch – she would have to discuss hospitality with her husband later – that was obvious.

When Thorin extended an invitation to D’Angelo with regards to entering the Faery Realm, Nimue almost lost her manners. Thorin didn’t know the manner in which D’Angelo had created the situation where Nimue plunged a jagged piece of mirror into her belly in order to kill herself. He had been grilling her about her home, about her life, about what it was to be a Fae. He also didn’t understand what that meant, to be compelled into answering a man with eyes as black as coal. It was a testament to her age and her ability to keep a cool head in most situations that Nimue didn’t reach across the table and strangle D’Angelo at that moment.

“Yes, I think that would be advantageous for a man such as you, D’Angelo.” Nimue smiled, but the smile didn’t reach her eyes. In fact, if it had been anyone but the heartless D’Angelo – the smile might make their skin crawl. “I think Queen Mab would be very interested in making your acquaintance. She enjoys meeting humans, they intrigue her greatly.” Her voice was calm and even, almost too much so. There was no telling what Mab actually already knew about D’Angelo or the situation surrounding the Nymph. Nothing would amuse the pregnant nymph more than D’Angelo rotting in a Faery jail, or so the look in her eyes seemed to say.

She pushed her plate away, most of the fruit cleared and the first genuinely warm smile she’d had all evening gracing her lips, save for those directed at Chizuru. She was lifting the cup of juice to her lips when she blacked out. The cup would fall from her hands as she instinctively backed away from the table. Her back would arch clear of the chair as if something were pulling her from the chair by an invisible tether straight from her belly button. When she regained consciousness she couldn’t breathe for the span of a few heartbeats – her hands clawing ineffectively at her chest. When she was able to finally breathe again she sucked the air into her lungs and collapsed back into her chair, her head fell into her hands as her hair spread around her like a curtain to shield her face.

“The Unseelie veil has broken.” The voice that spoke was very quiet and felt raw. Amariel was there as were both of the elvish men. The elvish men flanked her as Amariel refilled her cup, cleaning up the spattering of juice that had spread across the floor during her ordeal. Nimue looked up with her fierce blue eyes that looked so much like the depths of a limestone lake, piercing Thorin with her gaze.

“D’Angelo wouldn’t know where the Queen has been this past month and a half. It would seem that she has been taken to wife – the only way to breech the veil is to marry into the Summer Court. She is not my Queen, yet, but I do not envy the Queen her current dilemma or position.”

[Kirin]

Chizuru's friendly demeanor seemed to fade as she was disappointed in how truly ignorant D'Angelo was. She just shook her head quickly. Tamotsu grabbed the hand that Chizuru was using to hold her spoon as if to signal that she should calm down before she did something brash. Being brash and losing her temper was not beyond the young woman. Tamotsu's simple gesture seemed to do the trick.

The harbors of the empire were closed for too long while her "father", the Emperor Byakko, and his naval forces defended the empire from an invading onslaught of undead soldiers. Chizuru had lived, travelling the seas before she was taken in by the Emperor. She had proven herself above all the other idiots she was put up against. As she spent time in one of the temples, learning the healing arts that the priestesses learned from the House of the Kirin, things had spiralled into chaos from the advancement of the undead and the halt of trading.

A slight head tilt and she turned to D'Angelo thoughtfully. "Where is Cizok? I am from the continent of Yisrael. I will have to explore this Cizok at some point."

Lately, exploring had become conquering, but she left that unsaid.

Tamotsu let go of Chizuru's hand and started to eat. He spoke softly to Chizuru. "What is this Cizok? Do you think it would be beneficial to send someone over there? Of course, Your Majesty, I assume that you wish to see this place for yourself."

Chizuru only nodded. Her eyes met Nimue's once more and she smiled. Again, mentally, she was flustered. "Oh! That is quite interesting. And he's a smith, too. Smiths are considered to be very important to our empire. You are quite-"

She stood slowly, unsure of what to do. Tamotsu's eyes were widened and he actually turned to Thorin as though he was confused.

"Foreign magics.." Tamotsu actually spoke the common language with a very thick accent.

[Shin]

“I do not pretend to understand the Queens ways. But in my short tenure I have learned that she is incredibly adept and skilled.” He spoke honestly, having been impressed more than once by the Queens stature. “She is an incredibly individual, with very powerful allies.” He looked to Thorin as he spoke, and then let his eyes linger down to the two boxes that he had fetched.

“Wonderful. Both of them.” He picked up the bracelet and turned it over, his hungry eyes taking in every detail. “Your craftsmanship is far greater than that of myself.” He professed before setting it down and picking up the second item. “I know enough to get buy, and find weaknesses in the armor and weapons of those I often cross blades with, but I could never duplicate such work.” He set the second item down. “Her Majesty would be more than pleased I am sure. It is not always the gift itself that one comes to appreciate, but the meaning behind said gift.”

Turning his attention back to Chizoru he looked at her, honestly confused. “Really? Now, that is interesting, that explains my accent, it is Cizokian in nature and not of Yisrael. I have never been to your Yisrael, but now I am fascinated. I’m sure your two countries have to both stem from the same origin, if only because you are so similar.” Nicoli leaned back in his chair, stroking his chin while letting those same dark abyss like eyes soak in Chizoru and her companion in a completely different light.

“Actually, I know exactly where the Queen is, and what has transpired. However, I have to admit that I didn’t completely understand the ramifications of such a….” D’Angelo paused, searching for the world. Though, is tone was completely conversational and his smile never faltered or faded. “..pairing.” He shrugged as if it hardly mattered. “I may not always be with the Queen, but my eyes are always watching her.”

“It is done then.” He said barely above a whisper. With all the attention now on Nimue, he continued to smile almost too innocently and answered her statement from earlier. “I would love to meet Queen Mab, I also believe that my duty demands it.” He didn’t miss that not so subtle undertone of Nimue’s voice, but he hardly paid it any heed. “In light of our past, I believe it would be a perfect idea to clear the air as well. Start fresh. It is my ignorance that caused such a disasterous event…. Even if it did bring you two together.” His smile turned into a sly smirk, and settled back, deeper into his chair, his finger steepeled before him with the elbows resting on the arms of the chair. Nicoli was back into deep thought.

[Thorin]

Thorin listened to Nimue's explanation and let her cast her icy glare. He deserved it, but part of him was focusing on the many ways he would torture and kill King Pendaran. It wasn't as if he'd have that chance, given the abilities of the bastard. No, he wouldn't even come close to getting past the entryway.

If he couldn't fight the bastard head on, he could at least create weapons for the ones who would. He needed to talk to Queen Mab, not just have his work critiqued. “Amariel, make sure she rests in her bed the rest of the day. Chizuru will watch over her.” In his mind, he cursed the existence of King Pendaran, realizing that he did have his fathers anger. If Nimue glared at his sudden decision, he would be too distracted to notice.

Taking hold of Queen Mab's bracelet, he eyed D'Angelo momentarily. The man would be a fool to cross him in the future. “It isn't a gift. She commissioned me.” Thorin wouldn't understand the importance of Queen Mab favoring him. He was still learning how the fae culture worked. “Get your weapons, they're in the chest.” Motioning toward the living room, the chest would be hard to miss. Chizuru and her guard, would also be included in retrieving their gear.

Thorin left them for a moment and returned in his armor. It was the same armor that Nimue had bled on- the discoloration obvious- but it would enable him to cross. He didn't let Nimue's eyes meet with his, his mind on how he would present himself to Queen Mab.

Securing the hammer to his side, it would hang much like a mace would. He'd be damned if he left something like that behind. Rest could wait, considering the events that had transpired. In essence, he had caused Igraine to fall into King Pendaran's hands. His Vuri sword would also rest against his back, figuring it best to be as prepared as possible

“You are forgiven, provided you do not cause harm to my family in the future.” Thorin wished that he could create a clean slate with some, but that was much more difficult. Nimue had spoken about him needing an escort, but he wondered if they could call upon one so quickly.

“I'm ready to leave if you are. If an escort isn't summoned, I'm sure I can find my way.” The Xanathi stubborn gene was apparent in his tone and demeanor. Nimue hadn't yet left for their room, so he was sure she would have something to say. If they left now, they would be in the Queen's presence by morning.

[Igraine]

Nimue felt drained as she was helped to her feet by Amariel. She turned and said something in an archaic language to the two elvish men. They bowed and walked to Thorin, flanking him with a quiet ease. Neither had weapons that were visible, but both had an air about them that said neither required material weapons in order to defend themselves.

“Aodh and Mahon will escort you to the Queen’s presence. No one will try to lead you astray because you wear my locket, but you can still get lost without an escort.” Nimue walked to Thorin. She was small in comparison to him, and yet she could command a room with a gesture. She kissed her hand and pressed her fingers to his lips. It was an endearing gesture.

“Aodh and Mahon are both soldiers from her Majesty’s army. They were sent to help in any way they can. They understand our language but prefer to speak only under necessity. Go see what Queen Mab has to say. Make sure she understands that I am pregnant; otherwise I will be compelled to join her. She would use my powers for the war efforts, but she will not make herself responsible for the loss of a child. She has had no child of her own, which is why the war will begin for Igraine.” Nimue spoke more for the benefit of Chizuru than anyone else.

“Be careful, Thorin. The Unseelie, the dangerous ones, are free to roam as they please. The night is no longer safe for anyone. Some of the creatures are capable of roaming through the day, but none are looking for me – none of them even know I exist or that I am your wife. We are safe close to the veil, but it would help my nerves to stay with Chizuru and Amariel.” Nimue smiled and motioned for Chizuru to follow her to the expansive bedroom that she shared with Thorin. A fire was crackling merrily in the stone fireplace and Amariel was already closing all of the curtains.

What the night couldn’t see, it couldn’t touch. Nimue had already placed some safeguards along the perimeter of their property some time ago. They were anchored to Thorin’s presence, and if he left they would flare to life. They were relatively difficult cloaking charms and protection charms, and when he left the homestead would melt completely into the woods. Anyone that wasn’t Thorin or part of the Seelie cause – well the mess that would be left behind would be happily foraged by the animals of the forest. Thorin would always find his way home, would always see the home, and would never be hurt by the charms and protective spells woven by his wife. Anyone that meant harm, or was looking for either of them with malicious intent, they would be fodder for the carrion animals.

Nimue didn’t play with her life or the life of her new family. Her powers were beyond the typical scope of a Nymph, and that made her input valuable to Queen Mab. Thorin had, inadvertently, created the very situation that would deter the Queen from incorporating his wife into war.

“I do wish you had been called under better circumstances.” Nimue said as she settled into a chair close to the fire. “Would you like anything while we wait?” She spoke calmly and quietly to Chizuru, as if there were no reason to worry for most of the men leaving the house. Truly, there wasn’t, all three of the women in the house were quite possibly more capable of protecting themselves than all of the men combined.

[Kirin]

After a moment of pause, Chizuru stood and retrieved her bow, arrows and knife. She motioned for Tamotsu to retrieve all of his kunai and his swords. She turned to Nimue and smiled, nodding.

"Good luck to the both of you. I hope your journey is safe. I am very pleased to make your acquaintances." Chizuru and Tamotsu bowed respectfully.

Chizuru followed Nimue, not wanting to keep her waiting. She wasn't sure of what to think at first. She felt the use of magic. In fact, there was magic all over, but pin pointing anything was a challenge to her. Before settling down in front of the fire, she disarmed herself, placing her arrows and bow near the chair. Once she sat down, contentment filled her gaze and she relaxed in front of Nimue.

"I had no idea of what was going on honestly. But it's fine. You are a gracious hostess and I am very privileged to be staying here." Chizuru folded her hands across her lap. "I am quite comfortable. The stew was delicious. Very, ah, hearty."

Some words were hard to come by. She was still learning the common languages. Her vocabulary was still infinitely more expansive than her guard's. His vocabulary mostly consisted of very simple phrases and was colored by the profanity that most of the sailors used in the ports of Kikita. Luckily for Chizuru, Tamotsu had the common sense to not use his colorful vocabulary while Chizuru was out in public.

"I have very little knowledge of your people and I am curious. I feel it is important to at least attempt understanding of another's customs. In my home, I am the Empress. I came to the throne after fending off our home from the onslaught of an army of the reanimated ancestors of our soldiers that had been raised by a necromancer. She had retreated, but the damage caused was enough so that my father closed the ports to anyone foreign. One of the things I did was reopen the ports and continue to explore foreign lands. Normally, I do not go out on my own. It is dangerous, but this was an exception."

Chizuru thought for a moment, remember her first meeting with Soren with a soft sigh. He had been so awkward to her. Awkward and barbaric. She was only a teenager, and she had met him on her very first voyage on a ship. This was long before the undead infiltrated the outer islands.

"I truly was curious to see how Soren was doing, but I am still, eh.. interested in the task that has been proposed."

She wasn't sure of what to expect. Of course, until a certain point of her life, she had to watch over her little sister, Susumu. Susumu ended up owning an apothecary in Kikita. Chizuru forced herself to learn all that she could about the herbs that grew in the Empire before she was summoned to the capitol.

What is it about Nimue that made her feel at ease?