Rio walk softly into your Suite after a doorman in the livery of the Gray Ajah opens the door.

Rio has left.

Rezna looks to his wife as Rio leaves. he does not seem particularly happy. "How anyone...dense or no, could have misplaced such an object...is quite beyond my ability to figure."

Vasimer nods politely to Rio before she disappears and then returns to watching Rezna and Maricca from his quiet spot on the wall.

Maricca shrugs "Yes I am I think something happened and it is being covered up."

The First Prince makes his exit from his chambers, seeming to still be adjusting his more official attire. The Queen's Guards around him, the four of them, are in a bit of a hurry. One dashes down the flight of stairs, the other heads to a different room within the quarters.

Mouse climbs up the spiraling staircase, from the lower levels of the Palace.

Mouse has arrived.

Twitch arrives with Mouse.

Timuri climbs up the spiraling staircase, from the lower levels of the Palace.

Timuri has arrived.

Rezna lokks to the Prince. "Trouble afoot?"

Mouse wanders up the stairs and pauses, looking around, a slight frown on her face. The person she's looking for, apparently, isn't here.

Maricca turns as her husbands comment and nods to the Prince.

Vasimer glances to Theowyn and his guards, wondering what is afoot as well but showing no outward interest in it.

Mouse pays no more attention to Theowyn than she does to anyone else. Not even so much as a polite nod, in fact. She moves silently over to crouch against a wall, waiting and petting her cat.

Timuri comes up into the room with an escort of two guards, his own countrymen. Standing by the door while he looks over those in attendance.

Theowyn shakes his head to Rezna. "Not at all, Ambassador," Theowyn responds briefly, heading forward and then coming to a near stop as he spots the man that has just entered with two foreign guards as escort. The Prince takes a deep breath, and straightens his shirt, and then steps forward toward Timuri. "Advisor, I presume? I am First Prince Theowyn Lancelyn Versyr."

Nicodemus comes from within the room behind the inconspicuous door.

Nicodemus has arrived.

Nolan steps out of Lord Nolan's chambers.

Nolan has arrived.

Rezna shrugs and looks back to his wife. "No trouble indeed."

Maricca shakes her head and looks to all the new arrivals, she leans over to her husband and whispers something.

Vasimer leans against the wall near the Cairhien ambassador's suite. His arms calmly folded over his chest he watches the gradually growing gathering.

Mouse just stays in her place, crouching against the wall. She glances at the newcomers, nodding politely to Nolan and Nicodemus both. If they notice, that is. She -is- a very little girl, crouched against a wall in a large room.

Nicodemus steps out from under the archway of a small door at the far end of the room. He pauses there and sweeps the room with his gaze as he fastens his ever-present ashandarei over a shoulder.

Rezna looks to his wife with an odd smile. "I think the Prince is trying to make a good impression for a would be father in law."

Timuri straightens to his full, unassuming height, giving the front of his jacket a snapping pull while he speaks to Theowyn. "You are correct sir, I am Advisor Timuri, come here on behalf of his Highness, King Mahal of Kandor."

Maricca squeezes her husbands leg and chuckles "You mean I was right when I spoke of he and Elyse being married?" she grins, as the mischief dances in her eyes.

Mouse's head snaps around at that, and her grey eyes study Timuri, her face expressionless and the hand on her cat's back stilled. The advisor's here? Rio wasn't kidding when she said 'soon'! She'll have to warn Kae. She thought there was more time ...

Nolan emerges from his quarters and pauses, looking at the gathering. As the Advisor introduces himself, he quirks an eyebrow. King Mahal's Advisor? Indeed?

Rezna says "I would say the possibility is looming on the horizon dear. * a thought which almost seems disturbing to Rezna for one reason or another*"

Theowyn bows in good form to the man, and indeed more then hinting at a need to make a good impression. "You are early, Advisor. A testament to Kandori timing." Theowyn takes a step to the side and raises his arm, as though offering further entrance. "The Guest chambers for your stay are ready, however. Princess Elyse, is not here," he informs next. "I assume she will return to the palace shortly."

Nicodemus does notice the girl crouched. In return he offers her an inclination of his head. When he finds himself ready, the Gaidin steps more fully into the room.

Maricca chuckles at her husband then sips at her tea. Maybe if Rezna sees a grand wedding he will want one for them, instead of that quick thing they had at home then him leaving.

And then again...maybe not.

Timuri returns Theowyn's bow with a short one of his own. One arm going to tuck behind his back. "And the Lady Kae?" Asks the advisor of Theowyn. "She will be in attendance shortly I presume." He skips over the entire matter of timing.

Mouse actually bares her teeth in the advisor's direction, though she does so silently and her position against the wall keeps the expression out of sight of most of the people present.

"Princess Elyse is with her older sister as we speak," Theowyn informs, as he steps further into the room presuming the Advisor will follow. "Princess Kae has been difficult to reach, I do believe this is the first time the two have spoken since the initial discovery of her identity."

Nicodemus takes up a position near the Queen's door where he stands silently, watching the room, and its occupants. His eyes linger on some more than others, but never is his attention called fully away from his duty.

Rezna notices the Mouse for the first time this evening. Seems the little rodent has gotten not being seen down to a science at her young age. He takes a moment to see that her teeth are not bared towards him, and then turns back to his wife.

Mouse mutters something under her breath. Considering that she never speaks above a whisper, under her breath is pretty quiet. She glares at Theown and Timuri both, clenching her fists and leaving her cat to his own devices. The cat starts cleaning his whiskers.

Vasimer glances towards Mouse, apparently catching her expression even though he only glances at her. Besides that one glance he seems to concentrate on watching the main group.

Nolan moves towards Theowyn and Timuri, but stops a discrete distance away and bows formally to the Advisor.

Timuri does indeed follow the Prince. He clears his throat just slightly. "The Lady's identity has yet to be confirmed sir. That, is after all, why I am here." He makes a cursory glance over those in the room while he speaks with the Prince.

Dain climbs up the spiraling staircase, from the lower levels of the Palace.

Dain has arrived.

Maricca sighs "Darling it is a shame so much formality goes on. It would be so much simplier if they would simply introduce us all." she sips the tea watching.

Rezna shrugs. "I am well aware of who the guy is. Listening can be a big help. WHy should I care wether or not he knows who I am? He is not here to see us afterall. Why bother with it?"

Rezna says "i suppose it all comes down to what a person needs to know. Don't give away your advantage if you can help it."

"Of course." Theowyn stops, turning to Timuri. "The Lt. Commander identified the Princess in question by a mark on her shoulder, I believe. It was an interesting event, to have the Kandori sing in praise of their discovered Princess. I do hope that her identity was not mistaken." Theowyn turns to the face the remainder of the sitting room. "Do you have time for introductions, Advisor Timuri?"

Maricca nods and strokes her husbands leg "I suppose your are correct my love."

Mouse forcibly relaxes her fists, and smooths her face back to its usual total lack of expression. Still crouched against the wall, she folds her arms across her knees. The cat extends his washing from his whiskers to his ears and ignores everyone.

The sound of heavy boots striking the hard marble stairs can be heard a few moments before Dain makes his way into the antechamber. Stopping at the top of the staircase Dain glances over the area perhaps looking for something, or someone although it is more likley he is just keeping his eyes open. Hands behind his back he purses his lips in thought for a brief moment as he takes in the scene

Vasimer lounges casually against the wall and seems not at all interested in the large gathering that is in the room, even though he does watch it passively. And from time to time he glances at Mouse where she crouches against a wall.

"We all hope the one in question is indeed the Princess. It is my place to find if the Lady's mark truly is as true." The Advisor says to Theowyn's first comment. "And yes, since the Lady's are taking their time, introductions would not be remiss."

Nobles' Sitting Room: Royal Palace of Andor, Caemlyn(#746RLM$)

You find yourself in a antechamber with a high, vaulted ceiling inset with colorful stained glass. Lush carpets of red and white lie upon the marble stone floor. Couchs and chairs are arranged in conversational groupings within the room.

The blue-gray of twilight can be seen through the long wall of glass. The evening's first stars are beginning to twinkle. The warm air of summer carries the scent of blooming roses and freshly cut grass. To the east is a wing set with doors that house the nobles who reside in the palace. To the northeast are a pair of double doors that lead to the balcony and gardens. A hallway with guests' rooms branches to the west, and the heavily guarded Queen's chambers are south. A great staircase of white stone curves down to the Entry Hall below.

Contents:

Dain

Nolan

Nicodemus

Timuri

Twitch

Mouse

Vasimer

Maricca

Rezna

Balcony Guest Quarters Nobles' Quarters

Queen's Chambers Down to Entry Hall Kamikatsu Royal Apartments

Theowyn slowly ponders where to begin, and finally decides to skip over the more contraversial figures first. "Advisor Timuri, on behalf of the Queen, I welcome you to Caemlyn and Her Palace." The voice is more meant to carry through the room, perhaps drawing attention. "Though your early arrival prevented a formal greeting, I do hope you will find this spontanious one of satisfaction." He moves to the short Cairhienin man and his wife. "I present Ambassador Rezna of Cairhien, and his wife, Maricca." He finds Nolan. "Lord Nolan, the man that had already been of honorable service to Kandor. Gaidin Nicodemus, bonded to my sister." The rest, he doesn't know, and so leaves it to themselves to be introduced.

Nolan smiles and bows to Timuri as Theowyn introduces him.

Rezna stands as he is introduced. He offers the Kandori advisor the traditional Cairhienian bow. "It is an honor sir. If there is anything Cairhien can do for you during your stay here in Andor, please do feel free to seek me out."

Vasimer doesn't make an effort to introduce himself, prefering to remain the nameless guard.

Maricca dips her head as she is introduced, she lets her husband so the speaking for both of them.

Mouse doesn't say a thing, doesn't even move. She remains where she is, a tiny girl, crouched silently agains the wall, her posture making her even smaller. She keeps those grey eyes trained on Timuri and Theowyn, her face carefully expressionless. Odd, for someone who doesn't appear to be more than six years old. The cat beside her finishes cleaning his ears and curls up on the floor to go to sleep.

Nicodemus, after being introduced inclines his head; a nod of respect given to the Advisor. He remains silent as he straitens, leaving the air open for words between nobles and statesmen.

Timuri brings on a 'court face' as the introductions begin. A prefunctionary smile on his lips as each person's name is ticked off. Rezna's bow recieves a deep nod in return. "An admirable offer sir, I will keep it in mind if the need arises." Nolan gets a nod as well as, "Your services have been appreciated sir." Sounding the offical who just might not know what Nolan actually did.

Dain nods once to himself perhaps having come to some conclusion he moves closer to the decent sized group of people. Noting the introductions he keeps quiet for a few moments but as the situation is at the moment he chooses not to offer his own name just yet, after all he would not want to interupt.

Rezna sits himself back down on the couch near the fire. The little man just shakes his head as if to ask his wife it the introduction was all she had hoped?

Carad climbs up the spiraling staircase, from the lower levels of the Palace.

Carad has arrived.

Maricca chuckles to her husband suspecting what the look is for.

"Advisor Timuri is of Kandor," Theowyn continues lightly in the general explination. He's not much into official greetings, that much can be witnesses by his tone, though he does wish to insure everyone is well greeted. "He comes on behalf of the King of Kandor."

Carad is escorted up the stairs by the guards, looking around slowly. He doesn't -look- like the type to be in a palace...despite Dain's suggestion to dress well, Carad didn't seem to have a second suit of clothes. Carad blinks as names get thrown around. Why would Dain want him present -here-?

Timuri speaks in a formal voice to the room at large, "King Mahal sends his well wishes to the people of Andor and those who," He glances towards Rezna and his wife, "Are visiting the country." Formalities have to be met some time, even if that time is with a hodge podge of people instead of the Royal Court.

Nicodemus glances toward Rezna as well. This being a good opportunity to do so. He studies the Cairhienin for a moment or two, long enough to make sure of something that's been in the back of his mind since first he met the man.

Rezna makes no respnse to that other than nodding. His attention now seems momentarily focused on this man who has been introduced as the Queen's warder. A cairhienian. In that at least, he should not be suprised.

Nolan continues to smile as Timuri greets the occupants of the room. Though he can't express it verbally, it's quite evident by his expression that he's honored to meet the Kandori King's Right Hand Man.

Rezna cocks his head to the side. Perhaps a bit bothered to find Nic staring right back at him. Has he seen the man before? If he has it certainly is not registering. Ah well. Attention goes back to his wife. Perhaps he will inquire later.

Theowyn nods in satisfaction that all primary introductions have been made. Those blue eyes catch the sight of Nicodemus and Rezna, the Warder perceptive in his manner, though he glances over quickly enough before turning to the Advisor. "Would you like a seat as we wait. I will have servants bring over some food or drink if you wish it. There might be matters you might wish to discuss?" Its a casual question, at best.

Mouse doesn't look at anyone but Timuri and Theowyn. At least, not for long. She does glance at Dain and Carad as they come into the room, but beyond that, her attention is riveted. Her face remains expressionless, but something in her posture--even crouched as she is--gives away ... something.

Tiganza has arrived.

Tiganza is a staff member and has teleported here to perform staff duties.

Raking a hand through his hair Dain glances twords Carad as he enters, offering the man a tight smile he waves him over. Currently he is standing off to the side, apparently listening to the ongoings around him although more silent than normal...

Nicodemus returns his attention to the rest of the room. If he recognized Rezna from another time, there's no way to se it in his face. Then, satisfied that his initial thoughts were correct, he goes about the business of remembering.

The door opens to admit a livieried Kandori guardsman, who pauses to scan the room before hurrying toward Timuri. He bows to the older man, fist to heart, though looking more than a little uneasy as he waits to be acknowledged.

Formalities mostly over with, Timuri nods to Theowyn. "Yes, that would be greatly appreciated. A light drink perhaps." He stays standing with the Prince until a seat is offered near the same man. The Guard arriving on the tail end of his words gets his attention just as fast as an offered seat. He nods to the guard, keeping as calm a face as is expected. "Yes?"

Theowyn turns around to face the guard as well, taking a step away as though not to intrude, though clearly not far enough to not over-hear a conversation.

Vasimer glances over at the new arrival from his place leaning against the wall.

Carad stands quietly near the stairs for a while, not sure whether he should go to Dain or not. He looks over the assembled noble-people, looking very out-of-place.

Nolan glances at the Guard curiously as he enters. Why is he so uneasy? Surely the Guards that came with the Princess would be used to being around nobility... Hmm.

The guardsman leans in to speak quietly and rather quickly to Timuri. For those not standing close enough, only a few words can be made out... soemthing to do with an attack of some sort?

Rezna cocks a brow. and mutters to his wife. "Only in Andor..."

Carad isn't a guard. He was just escorted in by one.

Carad's hand drops to his hip, where a swordhilt usually would be. He looks like he's used to having one there...and doesn't like not having it. He begins to move over toward Dain slowly.

What he hears has the Kandori advisor's face going as hard as stone. Snapping to his full height again cool blue eyes swivvel in on Theowyn, "This is Andoran hospitality?" WIth a gruff hrmph he switches back to the guardsman. "How long would it take us to get to the Ladies?" His hand going to his hip as if grabbing for a swordhilt that is not there.

Dain looks to carad and frowns slightly pursing his lips he motions to the other man agin, although he does not move his stance although his head swivles twords Timuri knowing full and well that Kae could be in trouble?. The frown that fallows his grim indeed, as it seems his hand is moving twords the sword hilt that at current.. is missing.

Theowyn's eyes go briefly wide, though that Void is fully embraced, as his expression settles to one more Warder-like. He turns back to find Nicodemus, and calls the man over, then cringes within at the Advisor's response. He turns his attention to the Guard. "Where?" is all he asks.

Rezna can't help smiling as he watces the collective group of men grab for imaginary swords. How many times has he heard the advisor's questions asked recently? Perhaps Andor should really get with the program.

Nicodemus stands stone-still by the door to the Queen's chambers. If it weren't for the steady rise and fall of his chest in metered breathing, and his eyes which shift from time to time, he'd almost seem a statue. In his mind, he'd guessed that only trouble could have followed that guard in, but there's no smile when he finds he was right, only a slow motion, redying himself for Theowyn's call. When it comes, he makes his way to the prince. "Yes Brother?"

Mouse blinks at the change in Timuri's face, and then jumps up as she hears what he says. "Kae!" she whispers, to no one in particular. Scooping up her cat, she settles him on her shoulder and glances quickly around. Which way is faster? She should hurry. It'd be hard to track a carriage in the city, but once outside, she shouldn't have a problem ...

Carad leans over to Dain as he takes a place just to the man's right. He whispers something quietly.

Nolan blinks at the Advisor's reaction to the Guard's news and tenses visibly. This does not bode well, whatever it is.

Travis climbs up the spiraling staircase, from the lower levels of the Palace.

Travis has arrived.

The guardsman shakes his head, "Uncertain... a few miles outside the city, no more..." he replies, this time in less quiet tones.

Dain looks to carad to answer the mans question, although his mood appears to be declining as the situation appears to have gone a bit sour perhaps? bloody hell he does not have enough information currently. "Because Carad... I am in need of good men at my side... and it looks like I could have good need of it as well." his tone polite, calm yet there is a heavy Tairen accent to his words. With a slight sigh he glances over the room appearing tence as ever yet not quite sure what to do as of yet.

Rezna just smiles. Seems he does not have to worry about that Kandori Andoran alliance afterall.

Travis enters arcing a brow at the words he hears not sure of the circumstances as yet. He gives the basic pleasentries required, but nothing formal, since he doesn't think this situation is able to handle it.

Carad nods slowly to Dain's reply, standing quietly at the Lord's side now, watching the procedings.

Mouse pauses, poised to dart across the room and down the stairs, waiting to hear enough that she can find the right place. However long the rest of them take, she'll be gone in a very few minutes, if she has anything to say about it.

"Gather the rest of the contingent, we leave as soon as all can gather below." Timuri speaks to his countryman. He looks over to Theowyn again, his voice lowering just a notch, but still easily heard throughout the room. "I would not like to see what will happen if the Ladies have been hurt." The cold look in the pearly eyes would not be one most people would wish on them.

The guardsman bows once more, fist to heart, before turning to hurry from the room, heading back down to where the contingent is already gathering.

Mouse doesn't even bother to snort at the Advisor's comment. If Kae's hurt, -no- one will be safe. As soon as the order is given, she's off like a shot, twisting past people as she bolts for the stairs.

Tiganza descends the white spiral, headed for the lower levels of the Palace.

Tiganza has left.

Rezna croses his fingers. If what the advisor says is true...a broken arm or so is likely all it would take to give him the negotiating leverage he needs.

Travis frowns and knew something was up but was not expecting this. His eyes look about the room with care, falling on Mouse and arcing a brow at her eagerness to leave as well. But given the circumstances he might not want to let her go, unless he wants Cronus having his head later. So he does just what he should and moves to the young lady, and squatting down beside her. "Are you okay little one?"

Nicodemus assessing the situation, what words come from whom, and the reactions to these coming from each person in the room, draws a conclusion about what might have just happened, and to whom.

Dain steps forward twords Timuri, "Perhaps you would be willing to share what information you have? The saftey of Kae is one of my Main priorities..." he offers twords the other man, that Tairen accent unmistakable....

Carad moves to step forward as Dain does, staying just a few inches behind him and to the right.

Mouse doesn't even stop as Travis squats beside her. Unless, of course, he reaches out to stop her.

Vasimer glances at Rezna and raises an eyebrow. Perhaps asking a question of his employer.

Rezna signals Vasimer to approach him for a moment

Travis frowns and knew something was up but was not expecting this. His eyes look about the room with care, falling on Mouse and arcing a brow at her eagerness to leave and catches up trying to block her path before she makes it out. Given the circumstances he might not want to let her go, unless he wants Cronus having his head later. "Hey, young lady!" light what did Cronus say her name was....mancy... moose... grr he growls and tries to stop her..

"Nicodemus, we ride out, Brother," Theowyn requests, and it is a request, as he feels for his own sword hilt. Damn weapon that's there for display only. "Guardsman, my sword," is the second request he makes to the Queen's Guardsman that is near. "And my horse," he asks the second.

Carad suddenly wants his sword, too, buts doubts a guardsman would leap to bring it to him. He glances toward Theowyn as he requests the two things, then looks back to Timuri.

Timuri, with patience that would rival the stones his face so resembles just now, replies to Dain with, "The ladies have been acosted." Short and simple are his words as he turns towards the door. Enough time has been waisted here.

Vasimer departs from his wall warming spot and approaches Rezna, leaning close as he nears and whispers something.

Nicodemus looks once over his shoulder, and then back to Theowyn, setting forth a silent question to the prince. He'll go as asked, but finding some girl, princess or not, is neither his duty nor so much as a tertiary concern, Aislynn Sedai's safety is.

Vasimer nods silently in response to whatever it is Rezna imparted to him.

Dain looks to Theowyn and back twords carad simply a frown on his face as Timuri's words sink home... ALthough he keeps his calm, and turns for the stair way his movments smooth heading in the direction of the courtyard, where his animal was left and no doubt his blade taken by the guards... As a precaution reaching out in his mind Dain trys to take grasp of the glow just over his shoulder.

Vasimer doesn't even nod this time, though it seems that Rezna did say something.

Mouse hisses at Travis, trying to sidestep him as he attempts to stop her. Oddly enough, the cat now draped across her shoulders hisses when she does. His is somewhat louder than hers, but she doesn't look much like she cares to stop, Guard or no.

Carad moves behind Dain without question, matching his pace exactly, keeping in the position he took up before. He murmurs as he goes.

Nolan slips quietly into his own quarters, returning a few moments later with his sword strapped to his hip.

Travis glares at the cat for a second... "Mouse! please." the name seeming to come suddenly to him with the hissing of the cat.

It takes some moments, though a Guardsman does come out of Theowyn's chambers with a more usable sword. The First Prince switches weapons, unsheathing the display sword not well balanced with its jewelry, and preferring the more suitable weapon crafted in the White Tower. "The Palace is on alert," is the next order of business. "Thirty men are to be gathered outside." Theowyn looks to Nicodemus, not waisting any time. A nod is provided, before Theowyn heads out.

Some moments after this, with the announcement that the palace is on alert, the Queen's Guard will flood the hallways.

Mouse doesn't bother to wait and answer. If she makes it around the guard, she'll be down the stairs in a flash. She's a fast little girl, and has been running from Guards for many years, if not inside the palace. Even her name doesn't stop her, coming from someone she doesn't know.

Timuri is right beside the Prince as the man goes out, if not a step before him. All in the room forgotten as his mind moves into 'battle' mode.

Travis curses himself for letting Cronus put him in this position and he follows suit after the girl already knowing where she will be heading... considering what he is hearing.

Vasimer makes his way towards the balcony.

Mouse descends the white spiral, headed for the lower levels of the Palace.

Mouse has left.

Twitch leaves with Mouse.

Twitch has left.

Dain strides out the door knowing full and well that he will left behind if he does not hury on his way each stride pulling him closer to the doorway until he finaly is able to leave...

Carad nods to Dain, not quite sure of the meaning of what's going on, but sure the consequences aren't going to be good. He wants his sword more.

Travis descends the white spiral, headed for the lower levels of the Palace.

Travis has left.

Nicodemus inclines his head in return, and falls in behind Prince Theowyn. What an interesting turn of events this day has brought, though nothing truly unexpected.

You descend the white stairs to the lower levels of the Palace.

Entry Hall: Royal Palace of Andor, Caemlyn

A wide, circular entry hall with a high, vaulted ceiling greets you as you enter the Royal Palace of Andor.

You can hear the sounds of the evening meal being prepared from somewhere further in the Palace, the smells of freshly baked bread and roasting meat filling the air. A few of the tall windows are opened up, to allow the fresh summer breeze to flow through the great entry hall. A grand circular staircase curves up to the higher levels of the Palace. A long, straight corridor runs to the southwest, and a winding corridor tiled in white leads off to the east. Atop a couple large steps, A great, arched doorway of gleaming white stone faces the high main doors and leads further into the palace.

Contents:

Travis(#5080JXp)

Twitch

Mouse

Obvious Exits:

Palace Courtyard Grand Hall Common Sitting Room

Servants' Wing Dining Hall Up to Nobles Sitting Room

Nicodemus descends the white spiral staircase and walks into the Entry Hall.

Nicodemus has arrived.

Timuri descends the white spiral staircase and walks into the Entry Hall.

Timuri has arrived.

Mouse darts through the doors. Fast little brat.

Mouse walks through the tall double doors that lead back to the courtyard and exits the Royal Palace.

Mouse has left.

Twitch leaves with Mouse.

Twitch has left.

You walk north through the tall double doors, toward the Palace Courtyard.

Palace Courtyard: Royal Palace of Andor, Caemlyn

A large, wide-open courtyard surrounds the breathtaking beauty of the Royal Palace of Andor. The pale beauty of the famed Ogier stonework, its high terraces and balconies and golden domes making your eye travel higher and higher to see more. The courtyard is very austere, with well-tended patches of lawn offsetting the stark white of the paving stones.

Small groups of Queen's Guards patrol the area, keeping it safe from any intrusion. The smell of delicious foods cooking fills the air. The warm breeze brings the scent of roses on the air. Their heavy scent completely permeates the air here, creating an exotic feel. The massive, double doors to the Palace are guarded by a small group of Queen's Guards. A small path paved in white stone leads off to the east towards the Queen's Gardens and flagstones lead northwest towards the guard's practice yard. A hoof-beaten path angles towards the stables to the west and the great gates lead back north out to the Queen's Plaza.

Contents:

Twitch

Mouse

Obvious Exits:

The Queen's Plaza Royal Palace The Queen's Gardens

Practice Fields Stables

Travis enters the courtyard from the Palace.

Travis has arrived.

Travis walks through the gleaming white double doors, into the Royal Palace.

Travis has left.

Nicodemus enters the courtyard from the Palace.

Nicodemus has arrived.

Dain enters the courtyard from the Palace.

Dain has arrived.

Vasimer walks into the Palace Courtyard from a white stone path to the east.

Vasimer has arrived.

Carad enters the courtyard from the Palace.

Carad has arrived.

Travis enters the courtyard from the Palace.

Travis has arrived.

Travis walks into the Royal Stables.

Travis has left.

Timuri enters the courtyard from the Palace.

Timuri has arrived.

Travis walks into the courtyard from the Royal Stables.

Travis has arrived.

Vasimer stays near the entrance to the queen's gardens, looking out into the courtyard at the party that is there.

Nolan enters the courtyard from the Palace.

Nolan has arrived.

The First Prince heads out into the courtyard, the royal horse rushly prepared and ahead of the steps. The Queen's Guard gathers, though still rushing for their positions. The Kandori Guard are already well prepared, and in obvious need for haste to lead them to the Kandori Royals.

Dain strides out and looks over the area, his frown deepening as within his mind he lunges for the glow agin...

Dain says "not if i can help it.."

Mouse's own mount is still here, having been left out so she could introduce the little pony to Kellian. As soon as she's through the doors, she darts toward the beast, off to one side where it's out of the way. Scrambling up into the saddle, rather unsteadily, she manages to turn the horse back toward the gates and the assembled guards. It only takes a few tugs of the reins, thumps of her heels, and a great deal of whispered cursing that no child her apparent age should know.

Nicodemus readies his mount quickly. So quickly in fact, one might think that Doon'dore had been prepared beforehand. He pulls himself up on the black horse then, ready to ride.

Travis exits the palace running after Mouse, "Mouse! please stop for Lt. Cronus...." he says the last more quietly as he manages to get closer to the girl... The guardsman seeming surprised as the girl mounts a horse and he catches up to her...

Carad stays just behind Dain, not letting the man get out of whispering distance. He watches everything carefully, ready to spring into action.

Timuri goes to the 20 or so Kandori men, taking the reins of the horse that was readied for him. Doing much like Theowyn did above stairs, he takes the sword a guardsmen had prepared for him and swings up into his saddle. With the sword he motions for the guard who had come upstairs to lead the way on off to whereever it is the ladies are, the rest of the people to come just assumed to be following.

Mouse glares down at Travis and gives her head a violent shake. She whispers fiercely, "Burn him! My -sister-'s in trouble!" Sister? What sister? She told Cronus she had no family. Regardless, she finally manages to get the little pony moving.

Nolan rushes into the stables and has his horse saddled as quickly as possible. Once it's saddled, he mounts up and rides to catch up to the others.

With the Queen's Guard assembling, Theowyn mounts his horse and kicks it forward toward the Kandori men. He does intend to ride beside Nicodemus, with the Queen's Guard flanking the group in escort.

Nothing. Bloody hell. Dain thinks to himself Raking a hand through his hair his Azure eyes fall on .. His horse that evidnetly has been made up, and his sword to boot. With a low growl to himself he rushes twords his Tairen steed and swings onto the animal taking his blade from one of the guards with a nod he fastens it to his side, pulling his riens in he glances to the other men... Pulling his horse in to go with the group no sence in going out on his own.

Carad moves over to Dieb, blinking as it seems to have been brought by servants who were attending to Dain's as well. Yep. It's official. Carad is one of Dain's men. But he doesn't bloody care, because now he can strap on the sword and swing into the saddle, pulling his horse up beside Dain's.

Travis motions for a guard to bring over his horse. "Mouse you may be faster riding with me... since I can't dissuade you from going?"

Forest Road: Outside Caemlyn, Andor(#6487RJ$)

The forest is somewhat dense at this point, and the well-traveled road winds through it on the way toward the as of yet distant Andoran village of Twin Oaks. Tall trees line the road here, their branches extending out over the road on both sides as though reaching out for one another. All in all, it makes for pleasant scenery.

However, all is not well on this usually quiet country road. It appears at first glance that a party befell a disturbing fate, attacked by highwaymen of some sort... more than a few from the looks of things. However, the fact that the unlooted bodies have been left sprawled where they fell might serve to indicate that robbery was not the reason for the attack. While there are no horses in sight, an unmarked carriage can be seen turned on its side near the edge of the road.

Contents:

Sohai

Eavan

Kae

Carriage

Nolan has arrived.

Mouse has arrived.

Twitch arrives with Mouse.

Timuri has arrived.

Eavan is no longer listening.

Travis has arrived.

Dain has arrived.

Carad has arrived.

Nicodemus has arrived.

Nicodemus, knowing full well that getting this party to move carefully through their next actions would be 'Shouting at the Deaf', remains silent for now. He waits to see where they will be led. If he were out to kill the First Prince, and The Queen's Gaidin, he'd set up something similar to this. It's could turn into a furball quickly. Hopefully, everything he's heard about the Kandori, and their discipline will prove true though, but he's prepared just in case.

Vasimer has arrived.

Eavan is sprawled on the ground, bleeding from multiple wounds, including a gut wound that would've spilled his insides if he hadn't already been lying down, unconscious from a blow to the head. He appears to be breathing. Barely.

At sensing the approaching thunder of the mounts' hooves, their riders coming too late to offer immediate rescue--but perhaps not too late to pursue the brigands who did this, Sohai seems almost relieved, surrendering slightly to the stress of his mortal wounds. To the observant, the commanding officer of the Kamikatsu Guard that originally arrived in Caemlyn with the ill-fated Princess Elyse would be found among the corpses, still rasping with breath--his life lingering but barely. His dark gaze slightly glazed over as he struggles to remain in this world long enough to issue final words to whomever may find him. Clinging to his strength of will and grim determination to his duty so tightly, Sohai barely registers the pain of his injuries. His mind is strong. His body, however, cannot hold out forever. Horribly gutted, what is left of his unmarked uniform is more crimson than any other color. Blood trickles out of his nose, and the corner of his mouth. He lies on his side, his arm and hand pinned in an awkward bent under him--indicating nothing short of it being broken, perhaps even out of socket at that angle. His free and functioning hand is closed in such a fist that his knuckles are white, resting against his hip. His body makes no sound, but moves with the deep measured, graceful breathing of a man about to die.

A second guardsmen seems to be breathing yet, though appearing on similar par of health as his commanding officer. He lies not far from Sohai, though not with the will of his other kinsman, and moans slightly with pain.

As they approach the scene ahead, Prince Theowyn's stallion is urged forward with the kick of his feet. He does not unsheath his blade, though his arm sets to weapon as the other hand leads his mount. The Queen's Gaurd follow ahead, and they do begin to scatter across the scene. The Warder's eyes remain alert, finding patches of blood and men as they lay, and soon finding Sohai in his state. That is the direction that he heads, dismounting from the horse some feet away in one swift motion. The momentum carries him forward. "Lt. Commander..." his voice trails in the obvious despirate plee for an answer.

Nicodemus draws back on the reins far enough away that his mount's own track will not make investigation of the scene more difficult. He looks to Theowyn as he dismounts. "This is close enough to the city to make me think that someone might well have seen something unless the one's that did this banded together quickly, and dispursed shortly after."

Travis frowns at the scene as his horse is still galloping around it and AFTER the departing figures, signaling for his trupe to fall in with, if nothing else they will give a good chase.

Timuri rides up beside the guard who is leading what might appear to be every fighting man in Andor. He draws his horse up a little, slowing down to match the pace of the Prince. "You and you, check the bodies." He counts off two of the Kandori contingent who dismount quickly going to the bodies to look for signs of life. He looks over to the other men who would best be called commanders at this time. "The ladies? Any sign of them?"

The Sound of hundering hooves lessens a bit as Dain pulls his mount about, looking over the scene his brow furrows, "bloody hell.." are the first words to his lips. After a quick moment of looking about he begins to search over the bodies looking for one familar face Kae...

Carad gallops up beside Dain, pulling back the beautiful grey mare he rides to trot beside the Tairen, not sure which face he's looking for. So the young man with the now-stoney face scans the nearby area, staying nearby Dain.

Other than the scene itself and a multitude of scattered horse tracks leading off in all directions, there is no sign of whoever it was that attacked the party. Neither is there any sign of the Princesses outside of the overturned carriage, all the bodies strewn about are men, and all Kandori but for one.

Mouse is a little longer in coming up on the scene. After all, she's only on a pony. She has, however, driven that poor little pony almost into the ground, and isn't too far behind. An odd sight to see, really, a six year old--by appearance--riding up with a large group of armed men. Or right behind them, anyway. She appears unmoved by the mass of bleeding bodies, scanning the scene with her usual lack of expression, looking for the same thing Dain is, though she doesn't know it.

Nolan gallops in closely behind Theowyn and Timuri. He dismounts quickly and begins to search for survivors. It isn't long before he finds the lone non-Kandori. And he's still breathing, if barely. He waves his arms to signal anyone nearby that he's found someone.

Sohai beckons the First Prince closer, the Guardsman's raspy breath nearly extinguished. With his fisted hand he reaches up, two blood-smeared fingers loosing from the fist to grasp tenuously at the First Prince's uniform, and lifting his head Sohai parts his lips to issue for his final words, rasping, "Succeed . . . where I . . . have failed . . . look to her . . . she was right . . ." his teeth tinged red as he shudders with the effort, and his fisted hand moves to rest on the Prince's, "They . . . took . . . them both . . . . went . ." but the final words which would give any indication of the direction the Princesses were taken are left unuttered as Sohai's last breath expells from his body, and he slumps, limp with death. His hand unclasps and laxes against Theowyn's, almost as if he gave something to the Prince in that last moment. His opened eyes turn vacant and unseeing anything of this realm as his soul drifts from his tattered form.

Darshil has arrived.

Cursing agin under Dain's breath he appears to be slightly less than calm. With a spur of his horse he moves twords the overturned carraige to see if perhaps there is any sign of anything... his mood much more frantic than before his azure eyes darting from body to body and then finaly to the overturned Carriage aware of little else.

The second guardsmen that still shows life, moans even louder still, "Oh, Light have mercy on me!" he coughs up some blood with the effort, "Light let me make amends . . . I don't want to die," the young Kandori soldier laments, "without making peace for my soul . . ."

Dain climbs into the carriage, disappearing from sight.

Dain has left.

Dain has arrived.

Travis holds up his men motioning each to take a directiong and find where these men have taken off too...

Carad pulls his horse to a stop as he hears the second guardsman, his brow furrowing. He then rides quickly to Dain, dismounting and walking over quickly.

Vasimer wanders off elsewhere for a while.

Vasimer has left.

Theowyn's eyes go wide, needing for information with each moment that Sohai sinks closer to death. With the last of his words, and the death falling, Theowyn takes the Lt. Commander's hand in his and grips at something with. The other hand clenches into a fist, his eyes spying out the remainder of the bloodied field. There is a brief nod offered to Nicodemus, though he seems trapped in his own thoughts for the moment. The love of his life, the women to be his wife, is taken from him at such expense. As Sohai drifts away, Theowyn's hand reaches out to close the man's eyes, and he sets him back to the ground. "Light Illume your soul," he whispers. Another moment, this one for him to take a deep breath in clearing his thoughts, and then he does stand. "Nicodemus, I trust your experience in commanding the Guard," is the second request that he makes, his eyes taken to the carriage.

Mouse finally slides off the poor, exhausted pony. This time she makes it without very many curses at all. Having noticed Nolan's gesture, she stumbles toward him, her usually quick and silent movements defeated by being unaccustomed to riding a pony at all, let along at a gallop for miles.

Nicodemus inclines his head toward Theowyn. He'd best find a direstion to send them off in then. He begins to inspect the sight.

Dain jumps from his mount as his large animal comes to a stop near the overrun carriage, with a growl under his breath he searches the area quickly his steps smooth, stoping he looks to Carad, "Indeed..." his tone distant as he lunges for the glow for a third time... agin nothing. "Kae .." he mutters to himself and turns to enter the carriage and see what he can find...

Other than the horses the group has brought with them, there are no others to be seen around the site, though hoofprints lead off in seemingly all directions, off into the trees as well as further down the well-travelled road.

Timuri dismounts, going over to where the Prince is beside the dead guard. The two Kandori who were set to look over the bodies coming to the man who prays for his salvation. "Lord Timuni, we got one here." One of them shouts over the short distance.

Dain climbs into the carriage, disappearing from sight.

Dain has left.

Carad looks at Dain expectantly for a long moment, then glances over at the dying or dead guard. He can't be sure from here. He then looks back to Dain, his face stone, but his eyes showing that he expects something from the Tairen, for some reason.

Nolan manages a slight smile as Mouse approaches. Once she's close enough, he uses his finger to scratch the word 'HEALER' in the dirt and points to the unconscious non-Kandori next to him. He then nods in the direction of the other men.

Carad climbs into the carriage, disappearing from sight.

Carad has left.

Mouse eyes Nolan, eyes the word, then turns to stare down at the unconscious man. Slowly, ever so slowly, her lip curls back to bare her teeth. A growl as quiet as her normal voice grumbles in her throat and she turns, stripping a knife from a nearby corpse. Healer? Not likely, the way she looks.

Turning wide-eyed the Kandori soldier still managing to breath despite his gutted wounds, moans yet again, though it is softer as he has apparently gotten some attention and doesn't need to be so loud, "I . . . I confess," he breathes, "Light help me, I confess! You hear me, Creator?" he wheezes, coughs and drools blood, "I have sworn oaths to the Dark One . . . " his hcest sinks with the admission, and his eyes close, "But I retract them . . . oh Light help me . . . a pox on the Dark One!" his eyes reopen and with his last effort is pleading to those surrounding him, "Please? Please . . . I never meant for it to come to this . . ." remorse and reget evident in this tone.

A scream of rage can be heard from the direction of the carriage, which Dain and Carad disappeared into a few moments ago.

Nolan looks at Mouse curiously and moves between her and unconscious man. He shakes his head and gives her a stern look. It's not much, but it's all he can do.

Yasuo has left.

Mouse isn't that easily deterred. She tries to push Nolan out of the way, but she isn't very strong, and isn't very successful. When she's unable to move him herself, she hisses at him. As usual, when the girl hisses, the cat joins in. Also as usual, the cat's hiss is considerably louder than the girl's.

Nolan remains in his position between Mouse and the unconscious man. Again he just shakes his head, but the stern look is replaced with a more compassioned one. He holds out a hand as if expecting her to just hand him the dagger.

Nicodemus looks over toward the dying man, and shakes his head. If only it were that easy to take it all back at the end. This only distracts him for a moment though, as he searches for signs of where any of the tracks might have led off to.

"The Kandori Princesses have been taken," Theowyn tells the few Queen's Guards that were not close enough to hear. "This area is to be searched." He might not have picked up on the scattered tracks, but he certainly did take his advise from Nicodemus on the matter. "Each of the tracks here is to be followed!" That is as much of a demand as the Prince could make, his voice straining for answers. There is an object that he grips in his hands, one that he holds without compromise. It is not a good time for a man to be talking about the Dark One, a certain rage breaks through those eyes that were earlier calm in comparison. The matter takes on a more dangerous appeal when he reaches for his sword. It is then that he pauses, taking a few steps toward the man. "Guards, question him." Theowyn will not speak to the man himself, as he turns and steps to his horse.

Dain has arrived.

Carad has arrived.

Mouse has never been one to respond to compassion. Well, rarely. And this isn't one of those times. She hisses again, the cat echoing the sound, and this time adding a threatening yowl as he comes to the conclusion that the man the girl is facing, Nolan, is a threat. The girl tightens her grip on the knife and tries to shove Nolan aside again.

Carad steps out after Dain, looking extremely grim in his motions and the set of his features. There is a certain fire in his eyes, a righteous look. His gaze sweeps the area quickly, taking in a remarkable amount for such a quick look.

Nicodemus looks once more to Theowyn. "There were enough men here to overtake these eight... Easily by the looks of it. Send enough men off with each party so that they might be able to defend themselves, and make sure they are not to do anything until they might have more men at their side... Unless..." He lets the rest go unsaid.

Timuri's face hardens all the more when the young Kandori starts spouting off about his affiliation with the Dark One. Turning his back on the boy after Theowyn orders his own men to question him, Timuri asks Theowyn, "Did he give us any clues? Any thoughts that might help us find the Ladies?" His speach clear, one who is 'down to business'.

Nolan sighs and doesn't budge as Mouse tries to shove him again. He kneels to be more on a level with Mouse and shakes his head again. If only he could make her see that the man could be useful if he were allowed to live. If only someone else had noticed his arm-waving earlier. Blast this bloody scar.

Bloodied dagger in hand Dain leaves the Carriage, and the mess within. A look of anger, hate and fear mixed on the nobles face his steps bring him quickly to his horses side, swinging onto the animal he pull in the riens with his free hand... "There was a message... " he says in a rather loud voice "Royal blood is no less red..." moving his horse twords Nicodemus Timuri and the first prince..."It would also seem that Kae LEft one of her daggers behind, " he holds up the blade in his hand, bloodied.

The Kandori Darkfriend continues to lament as the Queen's Guard approaches to question him. Woeful is he now, of that bargain he made, that evil oath he swore. "I swear my soul to the Light now. I see the error-" suddenly he convulses, eyes buldging in pain, it subsides a moment, "I'm sorry . . . this is all my fault . . ." and then he convulses once more, before slipping into a cold and uncomforting death.

Dain's words slice through Mouse's awareness, though it certainly doesn't calm her any. She's too young to see any use in a man almost dead, other than vengeance for the sister who so obviously isn't here. She waves the knife threateningly at Nolan, hissing again.

Carad moves to mount as Dain does, looking down at the tracks as he moves after the Lord, taking in each set in turn.

Nolan lifts his chin defiantly and shakes his head again. He spreads his arms as if to say 'Go ahead and cut me if you think it'll do you any good.' What's this guy thinking?

The First Prince shows the relenthless strength of his will. The way his eyes widen, the way his vessels seem to bulge from the sheer anger that takes him. It is only in action that he shows the traditional Warder calm, not moving as he hears the Darkfriend's last words. By expression he is far from it, and certainly contrasting Nicodemus. Theowyn's usual escort of two men are still near him, and when he nods, they simply do as Nicodemus suggested. "Can you asses which tracks are best followed, Brother?" Remarkly, his voice is calm. "At best guess. Standing here will give us nothing but the signs of a passing night."

Carad was trying to assess that himself...but he's not even -begun- his training. He looks up as he hears the First Prince ask the Gaidin, waiting for the man's answer.

Unless someone notices the little girl who looks to be prepared to kill Nolan in order to be able to kill the survivor he's trying to keep her from. The man on the ground lies still, but breathing. Nolan kneels between him and Mouse. Mouse raises a knife stripped from a nearby body and hisses at Nolan again, apparently ready to gut him.

Nicodemus thinks for a moment. "At best guess... Half of these tracks will lead to the dead's mounts. If they are near, that will illiminate those as possibilities. What will be left are the culprits tracks. I would assume that there would have to be atleast four or five. Enough needed to carry their prisoners... Eliminate the false trails swiftly..."

Nolan continues to kneel there, waiting for Mouse to make her move. He doesn't appear afraid of being 'gutted'. He's Ebou Dari for Light's sake.

Carad looks up at Nicodemus. "So you'll need as many men covering the trails as quickly as possible?", he inquires.

Dain 's eyes slide from the Gaidin then twords Nolan and the little girl, what in the light is she doing here? With a quick shake of his head he places Kae's dagger into his coat his gaze moving agin to Carad and the Gaidin, "I can track as well... if need be." he offers with a grim determination to Kae... With a slight sigh he closes his eyes and takes a deep breath in an atempt to calm himself so he can think more clearly, pushing himself away in his own mind keeping that glow over his shoulder, yet not reaching for it. When he opens his eyes there is a distance to them as if he was looking through the ongoings around him, but his breathing is even and he appears to have relaxed a bit more.

Nicodemus lets his eyes fall upon the man who asked him about needing men. As much as he is near impossible to give over trust in times such as these, he can't help but know he has to do so. He inclines his head. "Yes."

Theowyn reaches for the reigns of his horse. "We will do as we can." The Queen's Guard already begin to scatter into teams adequette to follow the tracks. Of course, there are not enough men on each team, though Theowyn will certainly not relieve the situation. "We need more men," he concludes faintly before mounting his horse. The teams do form, ready to ride into the night, as a handful of Queen's Guards walk through the battlefield searching for clues.

Nicodemus gives Dain a similar nod. "Find a trail not being followed, and track it to it's source." He follows this with yet another nod, one to Dain, and the other to Nolan. He turns then to follow the prince.

Mouse is standing right next to a clue. A still-breathing one. If it weren't for Nolan in her way, she'd be able to get to him with the knife in her hand. She looks far from happy, or even necessarily sane at this point, as she drives the knife toward Nolan.

Carad nods to Nicodemus. "I can track as well." He looks toward Dain. "Shall we?" He moves his horse toward a trail that seems less erratic than the others, if there is one.

Nicodemus has left.

Dain looks towords carad, then twords Mouse and the Nolan with a curt nod he spurs his horse a bit and turns a bit, "I imagen you are a better tracker than I Carad... " he frowns as The young girl lunges...

Still defending the still breathing non-Kandori, Nolan doesn't even flinch as Mouse drives the knife towards him. In one fluid motion, his left arm sweeps in and knocks the attack aside, hopefully knocking the knife out of her grip in the process.

The Kandori guardsmen brought to the scene begin to form up with the Queen's guards into larger teams to being following the various sets of tracks.

Timuri motions for his men to do the same as the Queen's Guard. Taking another chunk out of the area that has to be searched. The Kandori advisor dosn't look at all pleased with the turn of events. After all, he /did/ come here to see if a Lady who was claimed as a princess truly was. Not hunt the girl down.

Mouse isn't very strong, and the knife goes flying. When that happens, she leaps at Nolan, hissing again. Twitch, still on one shoulder and now thoroughly confused, leaps off the girl's shoulder and yowls--loudly--at Nolan.

Carad looks back at the Nolan/Mouse scene as Dain does, but looks back to the Tairen once Nolan proves himself capable of handling the six year old. "Gather a few guardsmen with us?" His horse moves forward a few steps, the mare perhaps anxious to be off. Maybe she's echoing her rider's emotions.

Dain remembers where he saw her from looking back to carad, "Wait a quick moment. " he lowers himself from the horse and *thuds* onto the ground his strides bringing him closer to the pair and the living non Kandori... "Mouse..." he eases twords the trio his brow furrowed.

Nolan slips his arms around the leaping Mouse, trying to grab her and hold her much smaller form against his chest.

Eavan bleeds some more. He's bled a lot more since people came. And he's still unconscious.

With a note of frustration, Theowyn's eyes take notice of this little haggering between Mouse and Nolan. The Queen's Guardsman near the fallen man calls for Theowyn's attention. The First Prince guides the horse the few steps, around the fueding pare, and dismounts.

And alive. And *breathing*. And *not* Kandori.

Mouse is easily caught and thumps fists and feet against Nolan, squirming to be free. Her face is far from expressionless now, full of rage and hate. -That- man! That man who isn't a Kandori! He's one of the ones who hurt Kae! She's going to -kill- him for that!

Timuri, being called over by one of the Kandori guards, goes over for a 'confrence' with the man a good distance off from the whole group.

Carad is a farm boy who'd never -seen- a Kandori before today. Well, apart from Grayce. How was he supposed to differentiate? There're disadvantages to never having been much of anywhere before. He wheels his horse to watch Dain impatiently.

Dain looks to mouse and the ongoings, unforunelty he just now notices the bleeding man on the ground, a big frown deepening on his face for some reasion why would mouse want to kill this man... then slowly but shurley he figures it out in his own mind. With a shake of his head he rakes a bloody hand through his hair and looks down at the body... still breathing. "Bloody hell..." he looks over the man in an atempt to assess the damages and if the man is awake or out cold...

Nolan tries to keep a hold on Mouse while Dain looks over the man. He sighs with relief now that someone else has finally noticed him.

Eavan is out cold. Blood is soaking onto the ground beneath his head, and a gash across his stomach almost certainly looks far worse than it is. If it were really that bad, he wouldn't still be alive, so at least some of that blood must be someone else's.

Its really too bad Theowyn had not paid more attention to Nolan from the start. The Prince was looking anywhere around but straight ahead, and as the clues come to a sudden conclusion, he dismounts and moves to the side of the men. "We need a wisdom." Yes, Nolan did say that back a while ago, or rather wrote it.

In fact, 'HEALER' is probably still written in the dirt nearby.

Mouse continues to squirm, finally getting just enough free of Nolan to bump into Dain. Another hiss, and she tries to throw herself on the wounded man again. Poor Twitch is now utterly confused.

Carad swings to the ground, wondering what all the fuss is over this one man. He moves over toward Dain.

Kaldain has arrived.

Nolan tries to get to his feet and take Mouse with him in an effort to keep her off the unconscious non-Kandori.

Mouse's pretty easily scooped up. She is not, after all, very strong. Even if she is furious. Pounding tiny fists and feet against Nolan, she struggle to get loose, her mouth stretched in what should be a scream, though little more than a breathy squeak comes out.

Carad purses his lips. He can't refuse trying to calm the little girl down, though. He always did stick his nose in where he probably shouldn't. So he walks over toward the two leans over to speak quietly to the little girl, though Nolan can probably hear too.

Nolan continues to hold the squirming Mouse in his arms as he looks pleadingly to Carad as the man approaches.

Raking his hand through his hair agin Dain purses his lips in thought before moving twords the downed man, a scowl on his lips as he moves to touch the unconsious man, and turn him over in an atempt to wake him... If he is alive, then he may know something of import after all although he may not be alive for long regardless of the severity of the wound...

Mouse snaps her teeth at Carad at first, then only glares at him, the furious hatred in her eyes not dying one tiny bit. She hangs suddenly limp in Nolan's arms.

A Queen's Guardsman, one of the two that hangs around Theowyn, steps forward and kneels before the injured man. Few would know that Theowyn holds a healer near him most of the time, though those that travelled with him on the hunting trip would certainly know. The Guardsman begins to examine the men for injuries, and soon pulls out a vial he hopes might wake the man when brought under his knose.

Carad sighs, giving Nolan a sympathetic look. The girl will only become more frustrated if held, but will kill the witness if let go. He looks her straight in the eyes. "Why do you wish to destroy that which may lead us to the Ladies?"

A soft wind whispers through the surrounding forest, swaying the trees gently from side to side. The sun is near departed, as afternoon touches evening, when the thumping of hooves echoes from down the road towards Caemlyn, travelling the winds. For those keen of hearing, it sounds like a single rider only, driving his horse at a quick trot. The clattering of the horse nears ever closer.

The vial doesn't do much. The man continues to be unconscious. He also continues to breathe. Not to mention bleeding. Rolling him over reveals the bleeding lump on the back of his head, acquired either when he fell or when someone hit him over the head. It's hard to tell. It also turns the gash on his belly into the dirt, spilling more blood.

Mouse doesn't answer Carad, only continues to stare at the ... thing in the dirt, eyes full of hatred and rage. That's right, don't let her go. She's not quite calm enough yet to understand that he's needed alive.

Nolan doesn't intend on letting Mouse go. He's going to hold her, and pet her and call her George....wait...that's...not...right....

Carad shakes his head slowly. "I hate him as much as you, surely. You didn't see the inside if that carriage. I -know- you want to kill him. I'd like nothing more than to see my blade enter each and every one of the monsters that did this. But they -can't- be found without his help." He looks at the departing sun, then at Dain. "Or in the dark, Dain. We've got to hurry."

Mouse doesn't seem to hear. Her jaw tightens. Nothing more.

Dain rakes a hand through his hair with a growl to himself, "Bloody hell..." is all he says before stalking twords his animal, a odd frustration in his eyes as if he were holding something back by force.

Carad moves quickly to his mount, swinging up into the saddle. "This one," he says, indicating one of the less erratic trails.

With the failed attempt to rise the man, Theowyn once again mounts his horse. "Have him brought back to the Palace." Of course, this takes a few men of the duty of following tracks. Theowyn doesn't like the look of any of this, but then he does nod in some final conclusion. "If this man survives, he may bring us answers. The attackers may wish to insure he does not make it to the Palace." He makes a few assumptions. "Though he may not be involved, he likely is." After a few more shared commands, he waits at the crime scene in protection of the fallen man.

The clatter of hooves nears, and for those who look can see a large form flickering between trees as the rider makes the final bend in the road and comes into full view. On a large, black and white patched horse, a figure in dark clothing sits. His head is bent low, to keep a large brimmed hat from blowing off. He pulls on the reins, and slows the trotting horse to a halt. His eyes rise and scan the scene. Hm. Looks like he caught up, finally. With a nudge of his heels, the horse steps out in a slow walk towards the large clustered group.

Nolan quirks an eyebrow curiously as he looks at Carad for a moment, then glances to Dain. Hmm.

Dain inclines his head but once, that distance still apparent in his eyes as he glances twords the noice that the apparent rider is making. With a frown and a wry smile he looks to Kaldain and his mount... Looking to Carad for a moment his eyes move to the sky gauging wha tlittle daylight they have left.

Carad nods toward the forest, eyeing Kaldain for but a moment. "Quickly. We need to cover as much ground as possible." He begins down the trail.

Down the trail of tracks, not down the road.

Theowyn leads his horse to face the man that just arrived, calmly examining him. For whatever turmoil is within him, Theowyn attempts to hold peace in the exterior now, the void allowing him to push away what will become all too obvious later in the evening.

The rider stops shy of the group, and looks around. Ah! A curious scene to find oneself in, indeed. His eyes scan those who look his way, and those who don't, to fall on one figure in particular. The edge of his lips quiver in a smile, and he turns his mare towards the man. "Lord Dain! I'm pleased to have finally caught up with you. I apologize once again for my delay, but certain things needed to be taken care of. What has happened here, my friend?" he asks, referring to the chaos of the area.

Carad turns Dieb, the grey mare he rides, to once again face Dain and Kaldain. He seems eager to be off, but this man warrants pause.

Dain nods his head once before placing his foot into the sturrup and swinging himself onto his large Grey mount. Sencing the riders urgency the large animal stamps his feet a few times. Dain's hands are bloodied quite a bit, as is his dark hair although no wounds are evident it is most likley anothers. Glancing twords Carad Dain spurs his horse slightly and moves twords The First Prince and Kaldain, "Kae has been abducted... In a rather brutal way... Regardless Myself and My good friend Carad are going to see what we can find before the hour is to late." he offers in a distant and odly grim tone, the Tairen apparently is not pleased at all. "If you wish to come... Then do but time is wasting." he says as he turns his horse about and moves in the direction that Carad had mentioned picking a trail to start with... one of so many others.

The Queen's Guard begins to move in varied of directions, assuming with the Kandori, following the tracks. They each select a man that will have the abilities to follow the track, some found within the ranks of both Kandori and the Queen's Guard.

Kaldain frowns. Abducted..? Not so good. He takes another look around. Obviously someone went to some significant trouble to accomplish such a goal. He kicks his mare up beside Dain, giving him a sidelong look. His face, as his cloak, has a film of dust from the quick ride from Caemlyn, though he appears suprisingly well rested...and almost cheerful, despite the news about his friend. Seems the road agrees with him. "Do we know by whom?"

Theowyn turns his mount around, after insuring that the unconcious man is being well handled considering the importance of the information he may have. Even witnesses are of importance. He selects a group to lead, and then kicks his horse ahead toward them. "Onward." With that, The First Prince rides into the thick of the forest in a small escort of Queen's Guards.

Carad rides up to Kaldain and Dain. "We have one of the fiends. He'll most likely be questioned once he regains consciousness." His mare stamps the ground, puffing air out through her nose in anxiousness.

Dain inclines his head but once, "Kaldain... This is carad, a good friend of mine. Carad this is Kaldain... a bard. And a man who is considering employment with me.. Or so I can hope." he offers with a grim nod to himself as he moves forward...

Carad nods. "Another entertainer." He gives Kaldain a long, appraising look. "King, High Lord, Prince?", he inquires wryly. He shakes his head. "It would be good to meet you, Kaldain, were the situation not so urgent. Shall we be off?"

The direction that is taken leads those who follow through a rather winding thicket of trees. Those with even a small amount of tracking ability would soon realize that this path was haphazard and likely made by a frightened frightened animal. Two horses are found together in a small clearing. A pair of the Kandori Soldier's mounts by the looks of it. Assuming all of you are taking the same trail. Backtracking a bit, there might be another trail of hooves leading southward . . . knowledgable trackers would eventually determine that the tracks are not similar to those of riderless mounts as before. These could very well be the tracks of the assailants . . .

The darkly clothed man turns his head towards Carad, "Excellent. Then our enemy is not completely without a face." His eyes turn back to Dain as the man introduces his name, then back to Carad. "Employment indeed." He says with a grinm, "A pleasure, sir. Although one that could have definitely been more so, considering the circumstances." He gives a grim nod. "Then lets ride forth..." But gives a moment of pause, glancing to Carad, "And how do you mean...'Another entertainer', good sir?" he asks with an amused smile.

Dain glances from carad to the bard as they move along the way, "I used to be a Gleeman... As Kae i a gleewoman. I am the son of a High lord, and it seems she a princess..." he says simply before giving his full attention to the tracking of these 'bloody bastards'...

The Queen's Guards have a few trackers that take the lead as the path proves more difficult to follow. Theowyn is rather silent, riding on his mount with features that would be difficult read, and certainly features that would suggest speaking to him at the moment is not a good thing.

Carad nods to Dain's words, though he is silent. He spurs his horse onward, following the trail as quickly as possible in the waning light.

Mouse stirs finally, twitching as Nolan holds onto her. She whispers, "Where's Dain?"

The bard laughs, as he guides his horse between trees, the hooves crackling loudly on fallen leaves. "As you say, Carad. Just another simple entertainer. But unlike the two gleeman riff-raff..." referring to Kae and Dain "...I hold no noble blood within me." He offers a sarcastic cackle, "So, who's the true riff-raff, one must wonder?"

The three men, for Mouse, have ridden off, following a trail.

Not here!

Dain smirks coldly by the look on his face, he is hardly in the mood to be jested with or around although within the void... he is far from the words like an echo in a cave to him his eyes on the ground.

Nolan has left.