Family Brunch ( Lucinda, Aria )

[Noku Noru]

It had been a full turn of a day. The outburst Noku had in the court among the noble's and un-expected arrival of his cousin lucinda. Was now a past memory in the King's thoughts. Alone in the garden he sat under a white, stone gazebo. Hidden within the center of the elaborately decorative maze of roses and flowers, even climbing roses weaved and tangled their way up the gazebo's column's.

The grass kept and a stone walkway lead up to the beautiful sight. Even a fountain of two statue angles could be seen just on the other side of the gazebo, a silhouette beyond where Noku sat relaxed at a carved white oak round dining table. Where three more chairs could be seen left empty, however the table was decorated in the finest of glass dish-ware. Small sweet rolls were placed on a plate at the center of the table, along with a pitcher of water, a glass vase with two roses of different colors. One rose red, the other a blue violet. A beautiful and simple center piece, with crystal bowls of fruit placed at each seat.

Leaned back against his wooden chair, Noku's gaze had not left the book he was holding in his hands. A old book, that was warn and stained from countless of times he had glanced through the pages. His golden eyes not leaving the page until it needed to be flipped. His hand leaving the leather binding only to brush back what strains of hair that did fall out from behind his ear. The crown doing little help to keep his hair out of his face with each little gentle breeze.

Such an annoyance, he grumbled to himself. Lifting his gaze for a moment to take in the scenery around him. A guard posted around every corner of the castle, the security bumped up sense the break in yesterday. Another burden and pain in the ass, the king thought to himself once again. Which brought another troublesome thought to the forefront of his mind. The now weighing truth of the troublesome fated guest brought before him. Plus the arrival of Lucinda Noru, was still some what unsettling with the current events taking place within his kingdom. He had received the letter from her brother, the King of Palico, however she had arrived sooner than he had expected.

A sigh escaping the kings lips as he leaned back further into his chair and rested his head against the back lip of his chair. His body more relaxed in his kingly silk robes and decorative torso vest. His legs crossed as he kept the book, open, and within his lap. His eyes slowly closing out of the stillness of the garden.

[Lucinda Noru]

Lucinda arrived in the garden right on time. She had dressed in a style she hoped that the King would approve of, similar to his own. The dress/robe was asian in style, made of a light silk, consisting of two layers. The top layer was light blue, almost white at the edges with a dark blue flowered design. It covered her chest, tied in at the waist, extended down to make the sleeves, and then flowed over the back of the skirt. The second layer was a light, bright orange which primarily made up the skirt and edged the sleeves, which were flared. It was form fitting over her chest and waist with the skirt being very loose. Her blonde hair was up in bun tied with matching blue ribbon, with a single peach colored rose stuck through in stylish manner. She left her bangs down to frame her face.

As she walked through the garden and made her way to the gazebo, Lucinda couldn't help but take in the beauty of the place. It was so peaceful and really perfect for a brunch. She was very excited, for many reasons. First, it'd been awhile since she'd spent any amount of time around Uncle Noku and second, she generally loved events and parties of any sort. Unless they turned out like yesterday's event. That was still very confusing for her and slightly scary. It worried her that someone like Severine was the adviser to the throne but that wasn't really her business.

She shook her lightly, clearing the thoughts and taking a few deep breaths of the flower scented air before approaching the gazebo where she could see King Noku sitting. He looked very comfortable with his silk robes and the book resting on his lap. Lucinda made sure to create some noise with her step, so she didn't startle him, and stopped just short of the actual building, giving a proper curtsy and then waiting.

[Deleted]

Aria fallowed behind Lucinda quietly, her footsteps naturally not making a sound on the rocky pathway. Her large blue green eyes took in the sites; while memorizing the turns throughout the rose maze. Her slightly tapered ears picking up the sounds of the garden. She could hear birds, and the babbling of fountains and of course their light footsteps falling softly on the stone pathway. Aria let her mind extend out to the creatures of the garden; they too could feel the tension in the air recently around the castle. She sent out feelings of calm with her thoughts to soothe their nerves.

Aria had taken Lucinda’s kind offer of making sure she was appropriately attired for brunch with his majesty. She felt out of place in the expensive garment, she was sure more gold went into it then what it took to feed her for a few months straight. Aria chose to wear a style similar to Lucinda’s, being a foreign Princess it would be in bad taste to let her walk around in something that wasn’t quite in style; at least not alone. Aria rather liked the style, it wasn’t as tight or restricting as some of Nova’s normal attire. Aria’s dress although elegant beyond words was slightly more simple then Lucindas. While Lucinda’s outer chiffon layer was delicately embroidered with deep blue flowers the only embodiment on Arias gown was along the stiff collar and thick belt that formed tightly around her waist. The belt and collar was made with silk dyed in a sage green with a cream cord embroidering the edges. On the belt and the collar a phoenix’s were depicted in cream while roses were depicted in dark forest green. The rest of the outfit was made out of a chiffon material of light cream with a stark white under layer. It had long loose flowing sleeves that were slightly form fitting at the top but opened up into a soft bell shape at the elbow. The skirt was long and flowing made out of a cream chiffon with a white satin under layer that traveled to her cream slipper clad feet. Aria got quite the make over from the Princess, her nails were well manicured, no dirt and scrubbed to perfection. Her hair had been straightened; so it now fell down to her upper thighs, while half of it was pulled up and woven around a single cream colored rose. Arias eyes had been outlined with kohl making there blue green pop all the more; while her lips had been painted with a light pink. Her scar was still prominent; however the smoothness and porcelain like quality of her unmarred skin gleamed in comparison.

As they entered in view of the gazebo Aria took in what was around them; fallowing quietly behind Lucinda. When her eyes graced the center piece a small smile graced her lips; it was appropriate given the circumstances. It would seem his majesty was very fond of roses…Ironic since her given last name meant rose….hopefully that would bring her luck going forward. Least she knew he wouldn’t think she smelt bad. When Lucinda curtsied Aria fallowed with a bow, much like Garrett had done during the court proceedings the previous morning. While Lucinda may have dressed her like a princess, she was certainly not of that status. Copying Lucinda in this moment would be presumptuous.

[Noku Noru]

The soft pit-pat of leather shoes on the stone path caught Noku off guard. He had fallen asleep in the warm summer light of the mid-morning sun. His head shot up as he fully came back around. His vibrant gold eyes forcing open as he took a deep breath to compose himself. Now slightly embarrassed that he had dozed off long enough for his dear cousin to arrive and be standing before him. Even more so when he noticed the little red head woman standing directly behind. One brow raised in amusement as he shifted in his seat to address Lucinda and the 'Troublesome Woman' with a come hither gesture with his hand.

" Forgive me for dozing off. Come in and take a seat, both of you." he smiled, his tone rather pleasant as he finished waving them in with his right hand. Noku's hand returning back down to the book in his lap and closing it shut. The cover a dark burnt leather brown, with gold embroidered lettering of what looked like a Large 'N' the rest covered by his hand outer robe sleeve.

" Lucinda, you are looking radiant as always. It has been awhile sense we last spoke casually, has it not? You must tell me how you have been and of course of what brings you all the way out here to my glorious kingdom? Is it for Business or perhaps even pleasure?" Noku jest to his darling cousin, he snapped his fingers to summon a servant to quietly slid past Aria. The servant approached the King, quickly and diligently preparing the majesties cup and the rest of the empty glasses around the table. The servant pouring into each glass a delicious sweet white grape juice, not a wine, but a juice brought in by the Royal Vineyards this morning freshly squeezed and pressed.

" I apologize that you had to see me take such actions yesterday at your arrival. I hope you can forgive me for not welcoming you in a kinder manner dear Princess Luci." He smirked while his eyes trailed over to Aria. His eyes scanning over her figure and frame. Even taking in the beauty of an obviously borrowed dress, but his search would end at her shoulder, the same one that he was injured on. Now fully healed, except with a slight scar.

" Tell me.. Aria is it? The truth behind, well… You. These past few days have been rather, difficult I can imagine. However, you just keep surprising me every time I have encountered you. " He spoke in a more serious tone, taking the cup the servant had poured and placing it up against his lips, Taking a sip before setting it back down onto the table.

" Lucinda, I don't wish to confuse you, but how aware are you on the situation with this woman next to you? " Noku asked, turning his gaze to his cousin in a curious manner.

[Lucinda Noru]

Lucinda smiled gently as Noku came awake and nods as he motions them in to a seat. She held her dress carefully as she took her seat and looked to Aria, smiling again with a hint of pride this time. The woman cleaned up quite nicely and the dress suited her well. Lucinda blushed lightly at the compliment, her color deepening with Noku's implication in his question. "Thank you. You're looking very regal yourself but how's your shoulder?," she replied, before continuing to answer his questions. "I was sent here as an ambassador, officially. Unofficially? Silas thought perhaps some time away from Palico would do me good, considering our recent...losses,"she explained, working to keep her composure but for the grief in her eyes. "Perhaps I'll find a suitor here in my spare time," she joked, forcing a smile.

As she listened to his apology, Lucinda sipped on the fresh grape juice which was delicious and surprisingly refreshing. "There's no need to apologize, Uncle Noku, but thank you" she said politely. She continued to sip the juice occasionally as he questioned Aria. Then set it down upon his next question for her. "Aria? I know some from yesterday's events. I questioned some of the servants for the latest in castle gossip and news. Then I heard some from Aria herself after I invited her to my room this morning," she answered carefully, "What more would you have learn?" she questioned, keeping her tone polite and casual.

[Deleted]

Aria’s gaze slid from the flowers to the book that he had been reading; she stared at the book….she really hoped that wasn’t what she thought it was. She fallowed and took a seat beside Lucinda; sitting only after she was seated. Her hands folding neatly in her lap. Aria watched the interaction between Noku and Lucinda with interest; her eyes softening considerably when a familiar emotion flinted across Lucinda’s eyes. Aria lifted a hand and rested it on the girls shoulder and gave it a comforting squeeze. After which her hand returned to her lap. She didn’t have any knowledge of what these losses where…but she was no stranger to grief. Whatever it was she admired the girls ability to stay perky in spite of what it would seem like a heavy burden.

Aria perked up at the smell of fresh juice; amusement sparkling in her eyes as she noticed it was WHITE grape. The dress was safe! Aria murmured a small thank you to the servant who served them and waited until Lucinda had gotten a sip before enjoying it herself. Aria’s face was pure bliss, she always did like sweet things. That and it was nonalcoholic. Very much her preferred type of beverage. She froze in mid sip when she realized Noku happened to turn his attention back on her. She slowly lowered her cup back to the table with a small smile and a tilt of her head.

”Surprising your Majesty? Is that a good thing…or a bad thing? But yes, it is Aria, Aria Wisteria Wurud. These past few days have been difficult on everyone I’m sure. This fruit juice certainly makes things brighter, I’m very fond of sweet things, thank you”

She wasn’t going to complain about the situation she had been put in. It was done and over with, she had been through worse….and frankly it was like skipping through daisy’s and farting rainbows compared to the complicated cleanup it was going to take to somewhat fix the mess that the situation had brought. Aria looked over at Lucida when Noku asked if she knew of her situation. She nodded confirming that was pretty much accurate.

”The Princess has been very kind to me; I though it only fair to inform her on my situation being both fated, and the reasons for my imprisonment regarding contact with the woman who seems fond of projectiles to the head. I am aware associating with me has some implications as it is with the situation, I wanted the Princess to be fully aware of the social consequences. I’m entirely grateful for yours and her kindness towards me...but going back to your previous question, the truth behind me? What exactly would you like to know?”

[Deleted]

As Jeon was visiting the castle he felt obligated to attend the brunch that Noku was hosting. He cautiously walked through the garden; his feet stepping gently on the ground and going at a slothful pace. He wore the same outfit he had on that morning. A traditional outfit with a wrapped inner shirt and pants covered by a large white robe.

He had never been impressed by the gardens here. It wasn't anything like the flower gardens in his home. It was to be expected though: his father had been the greatest plant mage in recent history. His eyes glanced back and forth at all the different species of plants. They lucked a true luster. He would need to talk to the gardener in charge. It needed to be fixed! The region was perfect for many plants and the soil was rich with an abundance of nutrients. The plants here were sucking them up just like any second rate petunia does! Why petunias?! Why so many colored petunias in one section of the garden!? This was infuriating?! Who planned this out?! He looked down both sides of the aisle he was currently in. A scowling glare was dominant on his face. When he found he was alone a mischievous expression replaced it. He bent over, touching the ground, and whispering chants. The row of petunias all turned into a soft shade of violet that glistened gently under the sunlight. It was a nice contrast to the pink bushes. Wait. Pink bushes? Why were the bushes....pink? Jeon was in shock. He looked all around him. All of the green leaves and plants had become an icky shade of pasty pink. He began to panic.

Jeon could hear a gasp of shock coming from a few gardeners a few rows over. He touched the ground with his hands again and began chanting. All the plants in the vicinity began to go through an array of colors. Any person within fifty yards would have marveled at this unnatural incident. The bushes went through all the colors of the spectrum before they returned to a more natural green. It was a more lovely shade of green that Jeon preferred. He breathed heavily out of his nose with his eyes wide and began to walk away trying to avoid the incidence. One gardener saw him and tried to speak, but Jeon skedaddled down another row.

"That was a DISASTER!"He spoke loudly to himself as he past another row. He shook both of his hands in front of his face as his eyes seemed to get bigger and bigger. He had spoken just in time. He had just turned toward two ladies and a king enjoying a nice brunch. His eyes glazed over in embarrassment as he faced the group of individuals.

"Hello cousins. How are you this fine...day?"he sheepishly walked forward waiting for Noku's approval to join the group.

[Noku Noru]

Noku became very grave as Lucinda divulged what little she and Aria seemed to know between eachother. It seemed that even the Fated woman knew too little of herself to understand what was going on in front of her. Noku spoke:

"Lucinda. I watched this woman throw herself in front of my Civilian Guard, Sir Garrett, at which time, as you have heard, she was struck through the shoulder by a bolt launched by one of the assailants, who routed our guards, causing immense damage to the area, and then escaping by an unknown magic to a remote location. That same night, the very minute of that event, the wound I have shown appeared on my flesh, without pain, and it matches hers exactly."

He dropped his voice as he finished speaking, and locked eyes with Lucinda. He held her gaze a moment, then shared the same with Aria. Picking up a spoon and digging listlessly at a small pudding artfully decorated, he continued:

"For posterity sake, I will share all of my thoughts on the matter with you two now. You are of Noru blood. Though you are not from this realm, you bear the dynasty of Cain, and the curse that comes along with it. You were marked to be executed; by whom, precisely, it is unclear, but for what, is obvious" --Noku leaned forward, his elbows casually resting on the table, and held the spoon, with its pudding, outwards towards the two ladies before him-- "someone wanted me, dead. Had you borne the executioner's sword that night, this kingdom would be leaderless this day. That was an order I gave to be carried out, at the suggestion of one of my adviisorss, who is being 'dealt with' at present. Whomever has the audacity and foresight to make an attempt on my life so elegantly not only knows of the Fated, yes, but moreover, their origin, which we do not yet know, at present. This proves the situation at hand to be more than a little, complicated. While knowledge of the origins of the Fated has heretofore been largely guessed at, we now know that the Fated-this woman, at least-have arrived in our world from another plane which bears not only the Noru family lineage, but its infamous curse as well. I dare not hazard a guess as to how, why, or even if such a thing is possible, but here, we are, aren't we?"

Noku straightened himself in his chair, his gold eyes roaming the faces of the two before him. His expression was now somber, without malice or grief, and he remained silent awaiting the thoughts of his cousin and this most interesting redhead. A diminutive voice broke the silence, from the side, and a young male timidly began approaching the gazebo. Noku surveyed the newcomer, rolled his eyes, and emitted a sound of agitation and disgust. He did not speak, though, and turned his attention back to his female guests.

[Lucinda Noru]

Aria's explanation left much to be desired as she answered Noku's question with a question of her own. Lucinda was about to point this out when she stopped as a sudden flurry of color caught her eye. Turning her attention to the garden, she watched as quite a few of the plants suddenly changed colors, several times, and she marveled at the sight. When Jeon came into view, a welcome grin settled on her face. "That was a beautiful display, Jeon, though would I be correct in assuming it was not intentional?" she commented, then waited to see if Noku would allow him to join them.

The princess listened carefully as His Majesty explained his views and what he knew of the situation, a slight frown on her face. She didn't like the idea that someone might be trying to kill her family members by using knowledge of the Fated against them. "This is a grave situation indeed, Uncle. I am aware of the curse that, unfortunately, is born by your branch of our family. I'm very glad that whoever thought of this plan did not succeed but I'm also concerned this means that they will try again. Until then, it sounds like Aria is best kept close at hand, here in the castle. I have a new dragonlet that I need her help with as well," she said, pausing to sip her juice again.

After a moment of thinking, Lucinda continued. "I'm even less familiar with the Fated and their situation than you and your kingdom. Perhaps there is something you could do to try and gain more information about them, what they're capable of, and where they come from. A special banquet or something in their honor to try and gain their trust, perhaps, because I'm going to assume that they don't trust the crown after the events of late," she commented, digging into her own pudding. "If I may, your highness, how exactly are you dealing with your troublesome advisor?" she asked, curiously.

[Deleted]

Aria sat in silence as both Noku and Lucinda said their piece; she leaned back in her chair with the glass of grape juice resting in the palm of her hand. Quietly contemplating her answer to both parties. Calmly she swirled the liquid inside of her glass; her blue green gaze somberly watched as the liquid spun around. There was a silence that lasted for a few moments, even after the last words were said. Aria at last took her gaze from her cup and turned her attention to Lucinda, whom had suggested she stay locked up in this gilded cage.

”I both agree and disagree with your thoughts; why I will explain shortly.”

Aria turned her gaze and locked on to Noku’s; he had answered her question in a very round about manner. But he wanted the truth regarding her heritage.

”First before I begin I want to clarify, that socializing with nobility is not my forte…. I’m likely to put my foot in my mouth several times during this conversation and I apologize in advance…Moving on I cannot claim to know for a fact that I am of your father’s blood; until I was fated here the curse was not around by the time I was born…the overwhelming nature of the curse I experienced for the first time the night of the blossom festival. My beginnings in my time are not of a happy nature; I will not ruin this lovely meal with details.”

Nor did she seek pity for it.

”The decedents of the Noru line are none existent to common knowledge in my time. Furthermore I was a street rat for the majority of my life. I was thought to be a demon in my time and the general consensus was extermination…However I’m fortunate enough to have a very high luck streak when it comes to survival.”
Really she could relate to the feeling of people planning her death and attempting to carry it out. Which quite frankly explained why she had been so calm when the news it was happening here was told.

”I finally met my father when I was sixteen; he was a very sad and lonely man…he owned the library. His name was Sand; while we formed a family bond in the eight years before I was fated here, he was a very secretive man. Talking about family or past family was a taboo subject… I was content to be with my father and an adoptive family of sorts, of people whom I became attached to.”

A deep set sadness permeated her gaze, as it was cast downward to her cup. She had loved her family dearly. It hurt to be parted with them; and to be alone again. She closed her eyes for a moment and when she opened them her eyes had refocused.

”The only information I have on my heritage is my mother was a phioric angel created by Saden. The rest I never got the chance to learn before being pulled here.”

Aria looked back up at Noru and placed her glass on the table, and turned her focus on to more current problems.

”I share a curse with you that much you’ve announced, I will continue to rely and abide on your judgment on whom is to know about this and how to proceed. I do not have knowledge to how well known your curse is, or what details have been shared….to be completely honest. I did not expect to be claimed as a Noru; I’m aware that such claims have…complications due to the current situation.”

She clasped her hands in front of her; and let her gaze wander…..fully aware that she had just made the understatement of the century. Her gaze returned to Noku as she formed a question that she had been wanting to ask.

”I had been hoping your highness, that we could discuss what you would like to do regarding this situation. Regardless of how we proceed, you and your kin, are important to me. I take family’s wellbeing very seriously. I agree with Princess Lucinda that the odds of this attempt on our lives occurring again is quite possible; I’m also concerned with your advisor. She was made aware of my connection with you during the events at the gallows by Captain Walker. Her disrespect towards you, and her obvious hatred of the fated are concerning. I do not doubt I will be targeted again with words and circumstances being twisted to drag my name through the mud. I do not want my situation to reflect badly on the Noru line…”

Aria being a champion as of late had little to no protection when it came to slander from Severine. While she had conducted herself honorably during this whole situation, it was the archduchess word against hers when it came to events. She would not be able to combat any slander made against her, without showing disrespect to Noku’s court. Aria turned her attention back to Lucinda.

”In regards to keeping me in the castle Princess, while personally I’m loathed against being put in a gilded cage…. it also may not be viewed in a positive manner if I am kept here; there has to be some semblance of freedom…despite my non combative way of obtaining championship….I can indeed protect myself. I do after all call the forever forest home, and have survived there since being fated over….Frankly after half the stuff I have come up against, I find it humiliating I was almost taken out by an archer... However…I do recognize that if I am kept an eye on; it helps buffer any slander that could be made up against me. It would mean giving up my freedom of privacy but frankly my own wishes and personal feelings in this situation are necessary to put aside. But I still have duties outside of the castle. While some of my other fellow champions are slacking on their duties I will not.”

Aria took a sip from her juice.

”But Princess, I will be more than happy to offer you my services in helping raise your dragon. I have a soft spot for children; and your dragon seems like it will be a handful judging from its actions right out of its egg.”

As Jeon made his magical appearance Aria could not help but visibly face palm. When her palm was removed her gaze was directed towards Jeon, one brow arched in a silent question of ‘was that really necessary.’ She looked back at Noku as he visibly looked disgusted by the display.

”Is it safe to assume you’re not fond of magic your majesty”

She had noted Jeon had only greeted Noku, and Lucinda. She wondered if he was going to be like he was this morning. But that reminded her of something…

”OH! Jeon, you forgot to take the rest of these back before leaving this morning. I only used one seed.”

Aria then pulled a very Aria like habit, reaching into the front folds of her dress and pulling out the packet of seeds. She had only used one this morning to make the four flowers she had given out. She smiled sweetly as she held out the packet to Jeon. If he didn’t take it she would just place it on the table and turned back to their conversation.

”As of right not the majority of fated have not acted in a way the grants any favor…..in any situation when visiting another kingdom or other place you show respect for the local customs and laws. Some have out right disrespected the laws and customs, while others are struggling to adapt. They stick with other fated people… the saying birds of a feather comes to mind. This morning when you asked me to explain the fated’s situation better, remember how I said that the fated are displacing native Novanians? If the fated are shown favor, specifically after these events, the negative effects would greatly out way the positive.”

Aria looked back over at the king.

”Your Majesty, can I ask how much you know about the fated? Where the come from, who is bringing them, ect.”

[Noku Noru]

Noku's hands remained clasped on the table while Lucinda and Aria dialogued, a disconcerted expression forming on his face. After Aria had finished, He stared at the tablecloth, rapt in thought. Suddenly, as though jostled by an unseen hand, he roused himself and frowned toward Jeon, standing in the open near the gazebo. "Well, come along then, cousin. Since this topic is a family affair, you may as well be present. You also, should have a glimpse at the work of your elders, which you must soon carry out on your own." His voice was stern, but his demeanor relaxed a bit, and he took a long draught from the glass before him, and a few small bites of the pudding he had been toying with. Then, he placed the book he had been reading into the folds of his robe quickly, but still betraying the gold lettering spelling out "Noru" on its cover.

"I am of the same opinion with both of you," he began, "Aria certainly cannot be left to her own means, and overt favor toward the Fated would create a great discord in my kingdom." Here, he paused and drew several preoccupied breaths, his mind milling over the difficulties of this decision. "It is inadvisable for her to remain in my court, given the attitude toward her prominence as a Fated. It is imprudent to allow her to go into hiding, outside of our protection. Therefore, I propose that her care and protection fall to you, cousin. You seem to have taken a liking to the girl, and it would mean a gesture of good faith toward Palico. Maybe it could even loosen up that recluse of a brother of yours, maybe get a letter or a gift basket out of the bastard..." Noku half-groaned the last phrase to himself, drawing rapidly back to the conversation. "And, it would allow you to leave the palace, young lady. If that is agreeable to you, cousin, I believe it would provide a more secure arrangement to our current situation."

Noku reached to a basket of fruit sitting on a side table and plucked a small handful of grapes, as well as a fresh peach from the cornucopia. He sat some moments enjoying his selection, taking notice of the hue of his garden. Halfway through the peach, he turns to Jeon. "You should learn to control your magic, cousin, especially where it might not be welcomed." He frowned, and finished his peach, placing the pit onto the table, then began again. "As to my advisor, Severine, I cannot exactly say what is being done to remedy her attitude, specifically; however, my Regent Breton has proven most...effective...in these matters heretofore, and I have no doubt of his capacity with such an important mark. With his involvement, we may rest assured that Severine will no longer pose an obstacle to my goals. As to my knowledge of the Fated, your court is most nearly as aware of their origins and purposes as mine. However, we may now infer, by Aria's account, that neither time nor dimension separate their lands of origin from ours. If this woman came to us from a place where the Cain lineage dispersed into ignominy, she must needs be from some future time either in our own line-a most discouraging sentiment-or that of another world's, in which case, we may need to seek the gods for their direction."

[Deleted]

Jeon froze in his place. Noku's disconcerted attitude made him wary. This is why he hated the capital.

He smiled sheepishly at the compliments that he was given from his cousin and Aria. He paid close attention to the conversation, but lacked any real opinion on the matter. Noku's reaction to his presence had forced him still. He knew not whether to approach, stay in place, or leave. He never quite knew where he stood with Noku, but he knew it was a sour standing.

When he was called forward he swiftly made his way to a chair that was provided him by a servant a little before. He sat down, sitting formally and straight, acting his part in the conversation: as a listener,"I will do my best to control my magic, cousin. It was an accident that caused the display of color, but I fixed it,"he picked up the seed that Aria had placed while he said this. He went right back to his stiff posture.

Now, he was a little confused about how Aria may be related to the Noru family, but he assumed it had to do with the Fated that have been implanted in the kingdom. There was small talk of the Fated in the Arch about what kind of portal it could have been to make it possible, but other than that they weren't discussed much. The Fated mustn't have a huge inquiry on magic; except for Miss Aria sitting close by.

Jeon glanced over at Lucinda and Aria,"Lucinda and Aria do get along well. I think it would be a great idea to have Lucinda in charge of this Fated woman,"he had small experience with politics and royal decisions.

[Lucinda Noru]

Lucinda listened as Aria explained her views and a little more about herself, slowing working on her own pudding and occasionally sipping the juice. The two paired well together, though that wasn’t surprising. As Aria offered her help with the tiny dragon, the princess smiled and nodded, not wanting to interrupt just yet as she was still thinking. She knew Aria’s association with them could cause problems if people continued to treat her as they had been. She also knew the Fated’s plight was not one easily dealt with. Aria was right that any positive treatment might make things worse and confusing. She also had a good point when it came to some of them not fitting in on purpose. Lucinda thought the same could probably be said for non Fated but they had a spotlight on them that made it worse.

Uncle Noku’s decision on the matter caught her off guard and she looked at him in surprise for a moment. He wanted to give Aria to her court? As he mentioned loosening up her brother, she had to laugh. “I am honored by your generosity, Uncle and I shall send word to my brother on the matter. We’ll take her in and give her a proper title. It would help with her reputation and show that the Fated are welcome in our kingdom as well. We’ll work out the details, but I agree that this is a viable solution. As for loosening, good luck. He’s still as reclusive as ever though the kingdom runs smoothly, so I don’t complain,” she answered, smiling. She nodded as he explained about Severine, not saying anything but simply trusting that his methods would correct her problem.

As he continues and mentions what little they know of the Fated, her smile faded. “There has to be something else we can do about the Fated. I understand they are a strain on the economy and they displace our native residents but they didn’t ask to come here either. Some of them may rebel, may be thieves, and those we can’t help except to treat them the same as we would native criminals. But, I feel like lumping them all in is unfair. There might be some good ones amongst the group in general and the discrimination is not appropriate,” she said, carefully and at times obviously working to make sure she worded how she felt into understandable sentences. “I will pray for guidance on their behalf,” Lucinda added.

Jeon was allowed to join them after Noku chastised him on his magic. The princess smiled as he sat down and agreed with the decision, laughing a little at his explanation on the flowers. “Accidents do happen but at least that one was easily fixed and pleasant enough to watch,” she commented lightly.

[Deleted]

Aria’s eyes fallowed the book as he was hidden in his robes….she really did hope that wasn’t Cain’s Journal...Since both the princess and the king were eating now, Aria picked up a small pastry, she did have a fondness for sweets and had been eyeing it. She delicately nibbled on the pastry looking back and forth between Noku and Lucinda as they talked. When Lucinda decided that she was to be taken in and given a title she choked on her pastry. She grabbed her cup and washed it down with the grape juice and stared at Lucinda like she had two heads….She had NOT been expecting that….quickly asked to pretend to be a servant yes….given a title no….

”Thank you Princess, you once again honor me.”

She was still sticking with titles for now. After the initial surprise wore off she turned to the King when he made the quiet comment about his cousin. She couldn’t help but let out a small chuckle, her blue green eyes glittering in amusement. She did like the sound of being able to leave the castle; that and it sounded like the Princess planned on giving her more freedom.

”I would hope you would get a letter soon….your birthday is coming up is it not your Majesty?”

She tilted her head to the side in the question; she knew Cores was coming up…and they were twins. She assumed it was safe to assume…

”Also thank you, your Majesty, this solution sounds lovely it’s much more then I had dared to hope for.”

She genuinely beamed up at him; he had probably given her as much freedom as he could in this situation. She appreciated it. Really she had been expecting to be placed as a servant at best. Aria gave a sympathetic smile towards Jeon as he was corrected on the control of his magic. At least his accidents didn’t harm anyone….or get people killed. When he agreed with the decision and then decided to refer to her as fated woman when he very well knew her name, she leaned forward placing her elbows on the table and resting her chin on laced fingers. A big dopey grin growing on her face as she fluttered her eyelashes at him.

”Don’t be so formal, call me cousin!”

She flashed a toothy grin towards him. As the King went on to explain the extent of their knowledge Arias eyebrows arched. Had they not asked any fated how they got there? By what means? Even she knew they were taken from different worlds, not all matched their own. Her light hearted nature melting away to a more somber one as he went on to explain his concerns.

”Rest assured this timeline already differs from my own; key points in my world’s history already differ here. While many things are the same, others are not. Since I was pulled to my world the why, how, and who, questions have been bothering me. So I have done digging of my own for the past couple of months. I can confirm not all fated are from my timeline. Others are from different worlds completely. From my investigations we’ve all shown up in the moon temple in the room with an odd crystal. It stings like a bitch if you poke it…There’s chaos magic in it….made my head swim. I can confirm that it doesn’t matter where or when in time we are pulled. So the people who are fated over are greatly diverse. That crystal I will bet anything is the how…what I don’t have a lead on is the why.”

Aria looked on with a thoughtful expression placed on her features.

”You both pray but, there has been the little problem of the gods getting angered by the clear disrespect shown to them as of late. Particularly by that advisor, while I may be fated and the slander against me can be somewhat understood. I have knowledge that she also had lashed out at Mylees champion. Diamond, from my knowledge isn’t fated. That was after she received warning from the gods upon my being arrested….then the moon temple being destroyed.”

Aria listed the things off with a grimace…Mylee by now…had to be pisssssseddd.

”I will be doing what I can to do damage control in this area, which reminds me I would like permission from your majesty to commission one of your guards to help me repair the moon temple. She’s fated, and happen to assist in the capture of your first attempted assassin during the winter’s ball. I believe the more positive influences we fated have, the better.”

Aria turned her thoughts back to the fated as a whole.

”…I may have an idea for a long term solution; that may address both problems. However it would be exceedingly difficult and I do not know whether it would be practical. Much problems with the fated that you mentioned Lucinda stems from a lack of knowledge on the society around them. Many fated lack the basic skills needed in order to successfully survive and thrive in this world. They are brought into this world already at an age in which one is expected to already know these skills. They have no parents or family to teach them. The same can be said for some non fated. I purpose we introduce an institution for knowledge; open for all classes. Educate Teair; history, language, culture’s not just Teairs but all of Novas, trade skills, ect. You already have a wonderful library, but so few can use its great halls due to the fact the majority of the kingdom can’t read their own names. The institution could be considered a new monument in honor of the gods, knowledge building a better future for generations; inspiring a passion and love for the place they will now be calling home. While also being beneficial for both the none fated and fated of this kingdom…anyone who joins would be required file personal information of course, wonderful time to register fated would it not? Then again the fated will eventually become other kingdoms problems as well, especially now that they are facing such prejudice here. They will be spreading out. I suggest if possible proposing this idea to other neighboring kingdoms as well”

She scratched the bridge of her nose.

”Like I said it’s just an idea, and probably is not very practical; and it would be a long term solution. In my time we started a much smaller version of this idea, I owned a tavern in my time and we educated our employees. They lived better lives for it.”

[Noku Noru]

Noku chewed fastidiously upon the flesh of a peach while Aria, Lucinda, and Jeon gave their accounts, pausing intermittently to nervously tap at his temple, assuming a vacant gaze as though disengaged. Aria having terminated her discourse on remediating the public, a sudden glint flashed into his eyes, and he placed the remainder of the peach, with the pit exposed, on the table before him.

"It is as you say, Miss Wurud." He began, slowly. "The Fated cannot exist peacefully within our borders if they are ignorant of our customs and laws. Yeesss..." Noku glanced about for a few moments, then regained himself and continued: "As long as these Fated are in our country, their presence must bear homage to the crown, and to the general welfare. They must, of course, be counted in the Census, and the means of maintaining them socially must be provided for. And of course, jobs, as always, mean more coin for the vault, and more goods in the market." He rubbed his chin awhile, Milling it over in his head. He reached down toward the peach, turning it over with his index finger. Then, turning to Lucinda, he spoke quickly: "We will await notice from your brother, and confer what must be done after he has been made aware of our situation. Without Palico, Teair will be in a grave state. We must not falter before those who would oppose us. Lucinda, will you remain in the constant care of my Guard, and see that our...cousin...befalls no harm? I am sure your judgement is sufficient for this task."


Noku lifted the peach, holding it casually and looking into it as though trying to pierce beyond it with his gaze. He addressed Jeon without looking at him: "These are the conditions of the kingdom, Jeon. Our family is under the scrutiny of history, and needs bear the test of time faithfully. Do you think yourself equal to the task?" Noku turned his eyes to Jeon sidelong, and held his gaze for some time in silence. He plucked the pit from the tender meat of the peach, and tossed it at Jeon, playfully. "Add that to your collection. I've done with it." He turned back to Lucinda. "Now, enough of the affairs of state. Shall we divert ourselves for the afternoon over Rich Man, Poor man? Servant, bring a deck! I fancy myself as sharp as in my youth."