Reality Fault - Starfall: Logs for 22June2001

A whispered request by Carroll in Matthew's ear near the end of the party soon bears fruit -- Baroness Morgana sends a note to Carroll early the next day suggesting an afternoon meeting. When he arrives, she waves him to a seat in a room he hasn't seen before, apparently her office. "Captain. What can we do for you? Ludmilla will be along soon."

Carroll smiles and says, "I appreciate your taking the time to see me, Baroness. I wanted to come by and make a suggestion; one I fear will make both yourself and Baroness Kerensky uncomfortable. I feel there are good reasons to change something, and if it is not changed there may well be strong negative repercussions... and so I must come and at least make certain I have said what I must say." He adds, "Please don't think I want to make any demands. I am merely going to make a suggestion and provide you with reasons why this could be beneficial if implemented, and damaging if not. You very well may be aware of the issues already, but I couldn't know that until I'd said something."

The mouse twitches her whiskers at that, then nods. "Certainly, if you see a problem. You have a different perspective than we do, after all. Something to do with the queen?"

Carroll nods and says, "Yes, with the Queen. You, of course, have met my sister Alexandra. Does she strike you as a fragile person who needs to be protected and coddled?"

Morganna actually chuckles at that. "Not even a little bit. I suspect she'd be offended if anyone even suggested it."

Carroll nods and says, "Probably true. Yet to protect and coddle Alex is exactly what our father tried to do. Had we not had our family crisis, and I needed her in the role of first mate, I expect he still would be. I have to wonder if he doesn't still wonder how he can get her out of that role, at least a little bit." He chuckles, adding, "Some of that, I suspect, is because Alex will always be his special little girl, and it's hard to complain too much about that. However, Alex is not one to be thwarted. Had she not been given a chance by our family, I can only see that she would have taken her own chance, and run off to answer the siren call of the sea."

Morgana listens attentively, though her expression grows troubled as Carroll continues. "I begin to see where you're going with this, don't I?"

Carroll says, "Alex has had a lifelong dream, to be the Captain of a ship. I expect she would have been, even if she had run off and worked her way up from the bottom as nobody, presuming she hadn't gotten herself killed along the way. But, I also suspect, the family would have never known."

The mouse gives Carroll a wry look. "I think she would have succeeded, and I think she would have shown up again when she had, if only long enough to say 'I told you so'..."

Carroll laughs, and says, "Yes, that's probably true. I'm quite pleased not to have driven her away, though, and to have been able to watch her realize her dream." He pauses and says, "The Queen has her own dreams and goals, your Excellency... do you really want to have to wait for her to come back?" He comments, "I presume you heard of Demeter Lascarri, who decided to run away to sea, and throw herself at our mercy? She is not that much younger, or that much more headstrong than the Queen." He smiles and adds, "According to her father, she will be going out with one of House White Haven's merchant ships to learn the trade."

Morgana's ears swivel forward and her whiskers semaphore in several patterns before settling into an incredulous look. "I don't think that's likely in Her Majesty's case. She already has a challenging career, and even if she didn't enjoy it I don't think she'd run away from it. We're hardly coddling her, after all."

Carroll says, "There is another important thing I wished to mention, before I talked about the possible negatives, Baroness. It's something I think very good and very important for a leader, be it ship's Captain or ruler of a nation. That is maturity. Since we have had to make the decision to fight back against Pravinchandra and set out as privateers, I have watched Alex learn many things, and mature a great deal. Many of the things she got to learn were uncomfortable or distasteful, and some of them were quite painful. However, she has grown up a lot in this time, from a headstrong girl with stars in her eyes to a thoughtful and intelligent young woman who has learned much of life."

Morgana's whiskers swivel down into a more accepting posture. "True. And if I understand you correctly, a good point. Arianna has, for all her understanding of intrigue and tactics... a limited understanding of how her subjects live."

Carroll says, "Not only her own subjects, but how other countries live, and how to live outside of the walls of the Palace. I can't help but think that is very important, Baroness."

The mouse looks at Carroll through narrowed eyes. "You have a possible suggestion that wouldn't put her at risk?"

Carroll says, "Put her at no risk? No. I can't make a suggestion like that. Storms sink even experienced captains with good crews. Lightning might strike from the heavens at any moment. There is always risk. That is part of why life teaches you things. And if Arianna understands tactics and intrigue, she understands risk. However, it might be possible to lessen the risk... it may appear she has many enemies, but I don't know that she does. If she traveled with her house ships as a ship owner-on-board or other respectable pose, but not as Queen, she would go and see places and things she might not otherwise."

The mouse nods. "It would give her perspective, at least. Somewhere relatively safe, I would think, at least at first." She sighs. "But not now. Not before this business is settled... and there's always another crisis after the current one..."

Carroll says, "If not now, when? Serious question, Baroness. There is, as you say, always another crisis. If you ask me, now is a relatively stable time here in Maidstone. Her people are satisfied and her dukes are not in turmoil. They might even agree to cover her absence. The time could also be used to allow her Highness, Katrina, to be more involved."

Morgana grimaces. "The business of the succession is always a problem... but she's not going to get married sitting fortified in the palace unless we arrange a dynastic alliance, and she refuses to consider it. Katrina simply isn't old enough yet... hmm. Put her Highness on the Privy Council while her Majesty is travelling? Possibly..."

Carroll says, "I would also suggest that Katrina be given the same opportunities to travel, although not at the same time. To prepare for the worst, and have her be as mature and educated and as prepared a ruler as possible can only be reassuring."

Morgana nods. "Now this is certainly a good idea. Katrina could use the experience even more than Arianna." She looks speculatively at Carroll, then shakes her head. "Hmm... no. Not to Costa Yermo."

Carroll suggests, "As far as actual travel goes, I expect that she could travel as owner-on-board with any of the Dunbarton vessels, with a known and trusted Captain. If it were not regarded as improper, I would be pleased to take the Queen to Starfall. Last year at Solstice we depended upon some of the people at one of our holdings there as a last refuge of support, and I hope we can return there this year with our father, to reward and thank them. Queen Arianna would be welcome, if she wished."

Morgana looks intrigued. "Very tempting. If we could keep it secret... no one there would know her or Ludmilla, would they?"

Carroll says, "I can't guarantee they wouldn't, Baroness, but the people on Ettore would certainly be discreet. I've already trusted my life to them a number of times, and many of them I grew up with."

"I'm sure..." Morgana scurries over to a shelf of books and pulls one out, bringing it back to her desk and opening it. "Ettore... Ettore... ah-hah..." She looks up with a grin on her face.

Carroll adds mildly, "As much as it would worry the tigress, I would suggest Baroness Kerensky not go." He adds, "The people of Ettore were our last refuge from Pravinchandra, and the family owes them everything. Returning to thank them is the least we can do, not to mention very pleasant. Many of our marines and crew came from there, and have not had a chance to see their families in a year. A homecoming to look forward to."

The door opens just at that moment, and the tigress stalks in. "Vhat? Vhere should I not be goink?"

Morgana looks up. "Ah, there you are. We've been discussing ways to get Arianna out of the palace for a while. Safely."

Carroll smiles and says, "Hello, Baroness. Thank you for taking the time to see me today. I have been talking with Baroness DuPrei about a possible problem I had noticed. I am pleased to discover that it is indeed something which had been thought of." He summarizes his reasons for the Queen and the Princess to do some travelling.

The tigress sits, the chair creaking under her weight. "Safely and vitout me?" She glowers at both the mouse and the fox. "Vhere?"

Carroll gestures to the open Atlas and says, "A village full of lumberjacks," and grins. Before Ludmilla's look can become too incredulous he says, "An island near Starfall; St. Genevieve holdings. It is they who we depended upon for support and crew before we were able to come here and begin our privateering."

The tigress pads over and peers at the map. "Not beink very close to Starfall City. Interesnaya..." She looks up. "You keep her safe, then?"

Carroll says very seriously, "I would do everything in my power to keep her safe, Baroness Kerensky."

The tigress looks at Morgana, who nods. "We were discussing this problem before. The skin-switching didn't work out, after all. He's offered to take her along when they go back for Solstice." Ludmilla nods in return and turns her attention back to Carroll. "I vould hope so. Ve send a few guards along anyvay."

Carroll says, "Of course." He smiles a little as this seems to sink in, adding, "I expected a very different reaction, I must say."

Morgana smiles, her whiskers twitching, and the tigress just huffs a sigh. "You've been talking to her Majesty? She wants to get out, and she comes up with the silliest ideas about her safety. You saw how the skin-switching worked... of course we sit on her."

Carroll nods, "I can only suggest that desperation can lead to unclear thinking. And perhaps rebellion, as with so many young people. I do hope that by feeling you trust her and letting her have some of the life experience she so desperately craves, she will not feel the need to do foolish things in the future."

Morgana nods. "I hope so, too. Thank you for the suggestion, Captain." She winks at Carroll. "Don't tell her you talked to us when you suggest it to her, though."

Carroll smiles and says, "I already promised her I would talk to you about it, Baroness, but I shall try to keep whatever element of surprise remains." He adds, "I came, fully expecting a clear rejection, because I promised her I would."

Morgana chuckles. "Fair enough. We'll act suitably obstinate about things when she brings it up, if you'd like."

Carroll asks, "Why? I think the truth, that you would be happy to let her go abroad a little if only a way to do so without putting her in undue risk could be found, and that you were happy to see her go, would be much better accepted. Especially if it's the truth." He chuckles and adds, "I doubt there is any need to build this up, either. If I don't miss my guess, the Queen will be thrilled. Enjoy her happiness and be part of it, rather than building more resentment from her."

The tigress rumbles. "Ve not beink too difficult." The mouse smiles again. "Probably not. I hope it will be enjoyable all around. It'll teach her where wood comes from, at least."

Carroll smiles and nods, saying, "True. I hope it is a good trip for everyone involved." He looks outwardly calm. Internally he is thinking, Goddess, what have I done? I never expected them to agree! and trying not to think of all the things that could go wrong. This thought is interrupted with another, I'll be able to dance with her at Solstice, and he stops worrying.

Don Carlos is able to schedule three morning practices in a row before the press of duties forces him to beg off. The first day that he misses, however, a courier brings Alex a large pot with flowers growing. They are sweet-smelling, almost like honeysuckle, but from a much different plant -- a thick bushy growth with bright green leaves and hundreds of tiny white flowers.

Alex looks a little puzzled -- someone brought her a... plant?! -but politely thanks the courier, then checks to see if there's any note or explanation. She sniffs interestedly... maybe they can plant it somewhere outside? Smells nice... there is a note accompanying the courier, who in any event is in the same livery as Don Carlos' retainers usually are. Dearest Alexandra: I am devastated that I cannot be your target this morning. Please accept this small token of my esteem for you. Carlos

Alex blinks at the card... then can't help it -- she tosses her head back with a delighted laugh! She grins, shaking her head, then pays off the courier and thanks him. After that she looks more closely at the plant. Did he send her something... 'targeting'-like? "Hey, guys? Does anyone know what sort of plant this is?"

Horatio's ears flick at Alex's call, and he comes padding over from the general direction of the dining room, nibbling upon a breakfast roll in one hand, and with a bizarrely- and disturbingly-hissing potion in a sealed glass bottle in the other. "Good morning," he says cheerfully and idly, peering at the plant. After a moment his eyes widen a little. "Is it? No, it can't be..." He leans forward a little and sniffs at one of the tiny blossoms cautiously. He looks almost about to actually taste or lick one of the leaves, but stops short, looking around and realizing he's not in his lab. "Ah... oh!" he looks up to Alex. "This is fascinating, Alex, you've been given live alyssum! It's not exactly the most common thing around!"

Alex's nose wrinkles slightly at the potion, and she grins, distracted... then she tilts her head at his news, "Uh... gosh, really... how... exciting?" She giggles, "Horry, what is it, though? What does that mean?"

Carroll comes over to see what has arrived, and smiles at the flowers, apparently pleased with the Don's selection. He says, "They are called Alyssum, Alex." When Horatio suggests they're uncommon he says, "Yes, that's probably true. I believe they are usually considered a sign of esteem or respect for your skills, abilities, or cleverness." He smells them and adds, "And, they smell nice."

Alex blinks, looking interestedly at the plant, "Really? Huh, that's nice. Um... so, why did you almost eat one, Horry? I know you're not hungry...?" She grins, then sniffs curiously at one of the flowers, "Does smell nice... where's it from?"

Carroll wordlessly and carefully takes hold of the hissing potion and gently claims it from Horatio before he forgets it. Horatio nods to Carroll, barely noticing his brother divesting him of the near-forgotten potion. "Rumors among the students at the academy said that alyssum is used in some alchemical potions to... to enhance one's abilities. Probably where it got that symbolism from, Carroll." He blinks to Alex. "I was...? Oh! Yes, I was, uhm... habit, sort of. Tasting herbs is one of the ways to identify them. Uhm, sometimes." He looks to the plant again. "Hmm... they're forest plants, actually, native to the Empire and some of the northern League members."

Carroll grins mischievously, saying, "Enhance one's abilities? What kind of abilities?"

Alex looks more interested, "Really?! Wow..." She brightens, "That's... kinda cool!" then blinks, "He... got me a northern plant? Wow, that is cool! I wonder how he found out about it, coming from the south as he does? I wonder-" without missing a beat, she cheerfully pokes at Carroll, "-if the rumors are true?" She finally straightens from her examination of the plant, and grins a little shyly, "That's... kinda sweet of him!" She looks around happily, "Where shall we put it? It smells so nice -- be a shame not to put it where we can all appreciate it!"

Carroll oofs quietly, then says, "Yes, we should." He asks Horatio, "Do you know, or can you find out, how much sun a plant like this likes, so we can find an appropriate place to plant this?"

Horatio blinks to Carroll, completely failing to understand his brother's grin. "Uhm, well, physical or mental abilities. Supposedly healing potions made in the north use it; there are similar herbs which grow down south here, which we use instead. But in the right concoction, I imagine it can enhance... well, for example, one's dexterity, or perception. It depends on the other ingredients in the potion..."

Alex's eyebrows go up, "Wow, that is a cool plant!" She giggles at Carroll cheerfully, then beams at Horatio, "If you promise not to denude it, you're welcome to pick a few leaves and flowers to experiment with, Horry!"

Horatio blinks and his ears perk sharply. "Oh! Thank you, Alex! I've never worked with alyssum before!" He looks a bit abashed, and sobers. "I won't take more than a few, Alex, I promise."

Carroll suggests quietly, "Perhaps you can take a little cutting and start another plant, which you can harvest as much as you need from, Horatio."

Alex grins and cheerfully hugs Horatio, "I know you'll be careful, Horry -- I just think it'd be a shame if we had something this unusual and I was greedy about it, y'know?" She paces around the plant, studying it interestedly from all sides, "So... where to put it for now, until Horatio says where we should plant it?"

Carroll suggests, "Perhaps in the entry, so that any visitor coming shall see it? The don wouldn't miss it if he visited, either."

Horatio looks to Carroll, looking excited, and clearly forgetting about the hissing potion in Carroll's hand. "That's a great idea, actually! Uhm... I'm not sure I know how to do that, but I think we can find someone. Thank you, Carroll! And besides..." His nose twitches a little. "It smells really nice..." He smiles, hugging Alex back. "And the same from me, in my eagerness to examine it..." Alex giggles cheerfully at her alchemical brother!

Alex hms, tilting her head regardingly at the plant... then nods happily, "That'd be nice, and it can get a little sun that way too. That'll give Horry some study time too."

Alex will, with the help of some servants, neatly tuck the plant into the entry hall -- someplace where it scents the air pleasantly and looks pretty. Once that's safely done she bounces happily back, enthusiastically hugs Horatio and Carroll again, then oh!s, "Carya, I just remembered! I thought of something important for you!"

Before Horatio can wander off, Carroll says, "Ahem. You might be looking for this in a moment," to the younger fox, and offers him his still-noxious potion. He then says, "Oh, Alex? What?"

Horatio blinks to Carroll oddly, then his eyes widen. "Oh! The sophic sulfur and nitrum mixture! Thank you!" He cheerfully takes the potion off of Carroll's hands, apparently unconcerned that it seems to spit at the both of them him from within the sealed flask.

Alex bounces cheerfully, enthusiastically burbling out her news almost as one word, "Yup! This is something I thought up 'cause I thought it was wrong that the first mate should have a steward but the captain doesn't, y'know? -so I thought I'd check if maybe Pablito or Rosita knew someone that was interested -- see, I thought Rosita might like the job -- but guess what?! She says that her sister Juanita, the seamstress, well, she's happy because she's got a good job with her sisters and they don't have to worry about their futures any more but she misses being a seamstress, y'know? -sail-making's not her favorite -- so when I asked Rosita if she thought Juanita might like the job she said she thought Juanita'd be delighted to be doing things like that again because she loves sewing, y'know? So..." She pauses to take a breath, then beams, "Wanna ask Juanita to be your steward, Carya, so she's happier?" She beams at Carroll excitedly. In fact, she's been in an exceptionally good mood for the last week or so... practically glowing with enthusiasm and joie du vivre!

Carroll looks a little startled at the very idea, asking, "Do I need a steward?" He self-consciously looks at his clothing.

Alex laughs and throws her arms around Carroll in a cheerful hug, "Oh, silly! It's so things are right, y'know? The captain should have a steward too, and it'd make Juanita so happy!" She grins a little enviously, stepping back to regard Carroll, "You always look great -- but I always need Pablito's help!" Horatio blinks a bit, looking between Alex and Carroll, somewhat aware of what Alex is talking about; he hasn't been sequestered in the little room he claimed as his local workshop all that long. Alex bounces happily on her toe tips again, "So, whatcha think, Carya?"

Carroll oofs and is hugged. He smiles and asks, "What has gotten into you lately? You've been even cheerier than usual, which is saying something." When she bounces on the balls of her feet again, he cuts her off, saying, "Yes, I'll be happy to have a steward, and will speak to her straight away. I certainly don't mind help." He smiles and adds, "New clothes are always nice."

Alex says, "Excellent!" She giggles at Carroll's question, whirling lightly and dashing off. Her reply floats back down the hallway behind her, "Ohhh, nothing! Gotta dash -- late for fighter practice!"

Horatio blinks a bit, as Alex dashes off. "She seems to have a lot more vitae than usual..."

Carroll considers Alex' retreat, murmuring, "Hmm. Interesting," to Horatio. Then he asks his brother about details of plant-care, and makes a mental-note to find Juanita.

The family spends the morning in their individual pursuits, but lunch brings them back together again. Count Timothy arrives about 1:00 PM, just as the food is being served. "Smells good!" he says. "Another one of those exotic things you learned in Hamasura, I see."

Carroll mmms, and says, "Apparently. We certainly enjoyed it there. The people are quite pleasant." Horatio waits patiently for Father, Carroll, and Alex to sit; he is no longer carrying the rather odd-looking potion he had been seen with earlier. Carroll asks his father, "How goes the ambassadorial meetings? Any progress of note?"

The count sighs as he sits down. "They go. And go. And go. Everyone has to make speeches after every witness we interview. Everyone except me and the mouse. And sometimes T'kee and Kotick don't say a whole lot, either. The rest of them babble like a bunch of overgrown children most of the time."

Alex bounces in, humming happily to herself, just barely on time for lunch. Her fur is still slicked back and darkly wet from her post-fighter practice bath, but she's taken enough time to tuck one of the pretty alyssum blossoms behind one ear. She hugs her father happily, takes a quick, thirsty gulp from Horatio's goblet, then settles down in her place, "Hiya, all!" She refills Horatio's goblet with a cheerful grin at him, then flicks one curious ear towards her father as he speaks.

Horatio blinks, used to Alex doing something like that but still letting it visibly surprise him. "You've been energetic lately, Alex," he says cheerfully, settling into his seat. He looks over to their father, frowning slightly. "Meanwhile, word of what's going on is still filtering back to Costa Yermo, and any moment Prince Iago might decide to take pre-emptive action."

Alex beams at Horatio, "Just in a real good mood, I guess!" She takes a huge bite of food and chews, looking curious. Once she's swallowed she says, "So... what are they all so afraid of?"

The Count rolls his eyes toward the ceiling. "Making a decision would be my guess. If it weren't for Solstice coming up soon, they'd probably still be wrangling next summer. To be fair, the basics are done. Alex won't have to give evidence after all. Mainly the arguments now are about who to send."

Alex grins mischievously, "If he's smart he'll just sit tight for a while and do nothing... and everyone that wants to believe he's harmless will use that time to reassure themselves that he is indeed not a worry to them!" She nods to her father, still idly curious as to what it would have been like to testify. At the comment about Solstice she says, "Oh!" then beams at her father, "You remember we promised Ettore we'd return there for Solstice, yes?"

The older fox smiles. "Wouldn't miss it for the world. I have to decide what to get them all for a gift. They deserve a big one this year. Hmm..." He starts thinking about that, a much happier look on his face than the one he got from contemplating the conference.

Carroll smiles and says, "Yes, that is something which needs our attention quite soon. I've been thinking about the trip home."

Alex plays with her food for a moment, pushing it around while she self-consciously tries to figure out how to ask her question, "Well... um, I was wondering if um... if anyone would mind if I invited Don Carlos along, if he felt like it?" She looks around the table, her ears perked up hopefully.

Carroll chuckles and says, "I wouldn't have a problem with that, Alex, considering the news I had about the trip." He looks at his father and says, "Do you think that would be a problem?"

Horatio blinks to Alex, opens his mouth... then glances curiously to Father and Carroll, since it's not really his place, really. Alex brightens, bouncing slightly in her seat with enthusiasm, "Yay! Thanks, guys!" A moment later she pauses, curiously adding, "What's your news, Carya?"

Count Timothy looks very stern. "Do you really think that's appropriate at this stage, Alexandra?"

Alex blinks a little startledly, then looks taken aback, "Er... what stage is it, Daddy?"

The old fox grins. "How should I know? He's your friend. Certainly, invite him. I'm not sure he'll be able to get away from his post for that long, though."

Alex blinks again... then grins incredulously at her father, "Oh, Daddy! You are such a tease sometimes!" She cheerfully pokes her father, stealing a roll from his plate as she does so, and sits back with a giggle to nibble on it.

Carroll smiles and says, "I think it would be fine, Father. The Don has been a perfect gentleman. As to my news... well, do you want the whole story, or just the news?"

The Count grins at his daughter and flicks his ears in Carroll's direction. "Why not start with the news?"

Carroll smiles a wry smile, "And I may have a reason with which he can persuade his leader to allow him to come." He chuckles.

Horatio lets out the breath he'd realized he'd been holding, then blinks to Carroll as well. Alex gives Carroll an interested look and nods, "All of it!"

Carroll's smile widens as he says, "All right. First the news. I have invited Queen Arianna to join us in Ettore for Solstice. She has rather happily accepted. Much to my surprise, her staff also approved. I have to say, I am rather looking forward to the trip."

Alex's eyes widen, and her ears go straight up! A moment later she sputters (spraying crumbs), "Woo, f'a'f wonerfu'!" She hastily gulps down her mouthful and tries again, "I mean wonderful!" She giggles, adding, "What'd you do, threaten to tickle the baronesses in public or something?"

Horatio blinks to Carroll, then smiles. "I can imagine, Carroll! That's great news, even more so that Morgana and Ludmilla approved!"

Carroll also smiles, "Actually, it's an odd story." He relates his promise to Arianna, and the talk with the Baronesses. He says, "When they said, 'Where would she go that would be safe?' the safest place I could think of was Ettore, and it was near the top of my mind as we're planning a trip there. I actually said it aloud, expecting to be pointedly rebuked, and was not."

The Count twitches his ears up as well. "Oh, very interesting. And yes, if they don't say where she'll be going, no one would expect that."

Alex bounces gleefully on her seat again, "Oh, this'll be such fun!" She blinks, planning, "Okay, that's going to be three ships minimum... no, wait, she can't do that and not have a state visit to Starfall... oof, so we'll have to sort of sneak her in then? Hm... we could do that on the Mare, d'you think, Cara? If we put Daddy and Horry and Sten and the don in Horry's cabin, and me and Cara in mine, then the queen could go in the captain's cabin -- d'you think that'd work?"

Carroll says, "They will want to send some guards, but Ludmilla and Morgana will not be coming. Firstly, a while away from those two mother hens might do Arianna good, and secondly, Ludmilla is rather notable. A black vixen isn't necessarily notable, but a black vixen with a giant white tigress is."

Alex grins amusedly, "Yeesh, no kidding!" Horatio blinks to Alex. Does she know -- no, of course she knows how small my cabin is. If the weather's good, I might sleep out on the deck instead. He bobs his head, remembering -- wait, his cabin is actually larger than Alex's!

Carroll smiles and says, "I don't know if Ludmilla and Morgana expect her to go anyplace but Ettore. I don't intend to disabuse them of this notion, however, should the opportunity present it's self I would be pleased to show the lady Starfall, and our family estates." He sips his drink, and adds, "I was planning on asking Bryn to skulk about Starfall for a while and see if anyone had heard anything odd. If no one had, then a trip for a nicely dressed lady to the city shouldn't be too difficult, and I think quite pleasant."

The count nods. "As long as it's sub rosa. She's a citizen of the League, of course, and doesn't actually need to check in with the Starfall Council, but if they find out..."

Alex nods gravely to her father, "That'd be bad. They'd be rightly offended, I'd think." She hms... then nods to Carroll, "You might want to help her with clothing choices, Carya... being overdressed is no more fun than being underdressed."

Count Timothy nods. "And it's a lot less comfortable." Horatio nods quietly.

Carroll smiles and says, "Subtlety is important, yes. Part of the reason for the trip is for her to get away from affairs of state for a while. Queen Arianna is not going to Starfall. Lady Arianna Dunbarton is." He nods and says to Alex, "I will make a point to make sure her wardrobe is appropriate. For getting out of Maidstone, and while on Ettore, breeches might be appropriate, and certainly no one would expect the Queen to be dressed so." He smiles and adds, "Alex, if the Don doesn't think he can get away, ask him how his prince would feel if the Queen spent a MONTH or more with just another suitor there, without someone to run interference? He'd be duty-bound to go. Naturally, he only finds out at the very last minute, and doesn't know where they're going, thus couldn't send ahead for permission."

Alex blinks in astonishment at Carroll -- then laughs delightedly! "Oh, that's priceless -- I just have to tell him that!"

Horatio blinks. "You don't suppose that whomever is watching Don Carlos now is going to get suspicious?

The count raises a finger. "But only at the last minute, mind. He doesn't need to know ahead of time."

Alex grins cheerfully, "Oh, definitely!"

Carroll concurs, "Yes. A day or less warning, if possible. And only mention the Queen if he thinks he can't get away. I believe I can take care of the rest of the details of the trip, which should let you stay focused on the ambassadorial meeting, Father."

Alex thinks a moment, then says curiously, "Daddy... why are they holding this emergency meeting, if they expect nothing to come of it?"

The count's ears twitch a bit. "Nothing? Oh, it's not nothing. It's a way of bringing everyone up to speed on the problem. We'll send an envoy, and if we can get a good one we should be able to learn something. At the very least everyone is advised of the possible problems and can take their own precautions."

Alex says, "Huh..." she thinks about that a bit, then tilts one ear curiously, "So... who's the envoy then? Are they going on the Mare?"

Carroll asks, "And at the very worst couldn't the envoy either cause more conflict, or agree to things which are not in everyone's best interests?" Alex nods thoughtfully at Carroll's comments.

Horatio murmurs, "They would need to choose the envoy carefully... and it would be unlikely that they'd get someone everyone would agree to." Alex nods again, even more thoughtfully.

Timothy grins. "He could, Carroll, but anything beyond his original mission would need to be approved by the League again. Government by committee... it keeps people from getting out of hand, but I swear, when you need something quick it's like herding cats."

Alex sighs and shakes her head, "What a waste of time." She adds exasperatedly, "Why don't these people just go home and let their nobility take proper care of them?!"

Horatio fidgets slightly. "If that's the case, Father," he asks quietly, "-then... how are we planning on actually taking care of it?" Alex nods firmly at Horatio's question.

The old fox grins and leans forward. "By sending the envoy, whoever it is, with a picked crew and guards. Someone who can sniff around while the official envoy distracts Iago and his court. Interested?"

Carroll mutters quietly, "And I don't understand why the nobility who does still take proper care of people doesn't realize what a mess these fools are making of it, and be done with it. Considering the two most powerful nations in the League are nobilities, it seems that shouldn't take much doing, especially if the others seem as ineffective as their ambassadors."

Alex replies flatly to her father, "Depends on who the envoy is. Unless my captain says I have to, I'll be damned if I'll put up with someone like that silly peasant/councilman Trask doing his best to ignore reality." Horatio blinks startledly to the Count, then glances to Alex and nods quietly.

Timothy shrugs. "Well, of course. We're the best-organized city-states in the League, but it wouldn't help us to fight with the others. We work around the problems... now, if we had someone who could be nominated as King for the whole League it would help a lot, but until then it's better to argue than fight."

Alex snorts amusedly, "Oh, like that's going to happen. Half the League members would have to be conquered before they'd admit they're incompetent. You said it yourself -- it'd be like herding cats... and an elected king isn't really a ruler -- he's just the most popular."

The Count sighs. "That's probably about what it would take. If someone conquered half the League, the general who got it all back would probably get the job, but I'd just as soon not have to do it that way."

The old fox looks speculatively at his eldest son. "Still... if we could unite Starfall and Maidstone under one crown, the rest might eventually follow."

Alex chuckles dryly, then just shakes her head, "Whatever. When pigs fly. I'll believe it when I see it." She sighs and shakes her head again, "Anyway. I have some errands to run. Does anyone need anything from town while I'm out?"

Carroll looks seriously at his father, "Regardless of what we do for our own government, this irritation with Costa Yermo needs to be settled one way or another." Alex nods quietly at Carroll's words, hastily gulping down her drink preparatory for taking off.

Horatio studies his plate for a little bit; unfortunately he completely misses the suggestion Father makes to Carroll. "Nothing, thank you, Alex." Then he blinks and nods in agreement with Carroll. "Yes, definitely. If not for the fact that we ourselves are still in danger from Prince Iago, then Hamasura and other, less capable members of the League are as well.

The Count nods. "And we'll be working on it, even if we have to herd cats to do it. Would you be interested in being our unofficial envoys, kids?"

Alex gives her father the same look as before, "You already know my equivocations, Daddy."

Carroll shakes his head and says, "No, thank you, Alex." Mulling things over, he says to his father, "If that's what needs to be done. At this moment, I don't believe we would be terribly effective, considering everything."

Timothy nods. "We'll find someone, then. Maybe Ludmilla..."

Alex gives her father another incredulous look... then just shakes her head. She rises, grabs one last roll, and trots briskly off. "Later, all!"

Horatio considers. "Father, I think we all realize that by now the Costa Yermans know us. Prince Iago ordered Alex kidnapped. They're eager for war. I hate to be a nay-sayer, Father, but if we go to Costa Yermo in a single sloop and little more than a parchment with a diplomatic seal to protect us... what will stop Prince Iago from having us killed?" He fidgets. "I know... I know it's the noble's burden to go where we must needs go, in defense of our charges, to bear arms against any danger that may come to them..." And Elements knows, if she were in danger and she needed it (not that she would, she's wicked competent), I would stand between Jessie and whatever was onrushing, and not merely because it's the noble's burden... "But walking into the lion's den..."

Timothy nods, then. "You're probably right, Horatio. We'll find someone else to do that."

Another courier arrives near dusk, this time with a bouquet of lilacs for Sir Alexandra. The purple and white flowers are heavy with fragrance. The note reads merely, Another small token. Carlos.

Alex is still in the barn, a little horsy-smelling and over-heated from her day spent testing and training horses, and the ride into town. She's just arrived back home, and gets a bemused look on her face upon receiving the bouquet from the courier, who was led down to the barn by a house servant. She studies the card, then politely pays off the courier, thanking him and sending him home. She wanders up to the house, still faintly confused looking, and finds her eldest brother. She hands him the card, looking up at him with the armful of lilacs nodding gracefully next to her small, worried face. "Why... what do these mean? Why's he sending all these flowers all of a sudden?"

Carroll smiles and leans forward, probably unnecessarily, to smell the flowers, then says, "Don't they smell nice, though?" He admires the big vase of flowers and chuckles a bit, saying, "He's courting you, Alexandra. He's sending gifts because he wants you to be thinking of him and know that he's thinking of you." He reaches out and idly caresses a bloom, saying, "Since you ask, the white lilacs symbolize innocence, and the purple symbolize love."

Alex blinks a little startledly, holding the flowers out and away from herself a little warily, "Um... okay... well, yes, they do smell nice..." She looks around, then sets the vase hastily down. She pauses... then sighs a little guiltily. She looks around and picks someplace nicer, then carefully re-sets the vase there. Then she flops in a chair, careful not to get her boots on the table, "This is... strange, Carya. Is he trying to say he's decided he loves me?" A bit worriedly she adds, "What... does that mean, if he loves me?" She studies the lilacs, chewing thoughtfully on a claw tip.

Carroll sits down by Alex, "Perhaps it means he's finally brave enough to say it to you, even obliquely. Perhaps he doesn't put as much meaning to it, and merely has a good florist."

Alex pauses... then giggles in spite of herself at Carroll's comment! She curls up against him, sighing faintly and still studying the flowers. Finally she says slowly, "I... had rather been hoping to see what his people are like, and if they liked me or no... and if our people liked him."

Carroll idly puts an arm around his easily worried sister, and says, "And if he does have these meanings, consider this; he sent respect and admiration for your skills and knowledge first, then love. Perhaps he's saying he feels he knows you enough to say he loves who you really are. You, who beat him with the sword, and is so fast and so smart."

Alex sighs again, turning her face into Carroll's chest, and mumbles a bit muffledly, "It's scary to think someone that's not family loves you..."

Carroll nods a bit and manages not to become distracted by his own issues with love, "Yes, it is a little, isn't it? To realize this person loves you, and to have to wonder how much they trust you and if you can really trust them. But, for making that effort, you might find a partner whom you can utterly depend on."

Alex sighs softly, still hiding her face against Carroll... then finally peeks warily at the flowers again, "I... guess. I just wish that... that I understood him more, y'know? I mean... well, he loves his children, that's good... but he was talking the other day about just taking his kids and fleeing. I mean... well, what about his people? Don't they depend on him? And... what about the mad prince, and his family honor, and the weird things people there think about women, and how he feels about women and jealousy and all that stuff, y'know?" She adds a little unhappily, "Am I really that awful, Carya... that only a foreigner from an insane country could possibly love me?"

Carroll says, "You don't have to be afraid of them, Alex. They're just lilacs. Enjoy them for their own beauty. As to the others, consider what he's doing here -- every little bit he can for those children and for those people. After so long, perhaps he has lost hope that he can do anything for them, and would merely take what he can of his family and escape." He begins to stroke his sister's ears, and counters with, "Perhaps you're so wonderful that you can bring hope to a man trapped in a foreign country with no way home, and no way to help those who are important to him."

Alex blinks, thinking about that... then sniffles slightly and hugs Carroll tightly. She mumbles muffledly against the lacy ruffles of Carroll's shirtfront, "That's... nice... hope it's true..."

Carroll returns Alex's hug and tells her, "You bring that kind of energy to us, Alex, and to Father, and perhaps to the crew of our ship. Why not Don Carlos?" Alex smiles a little shakily up at Carroll and rubs her small mask with one paw... then sighs and stays curled up against him for a long while, if he'll let her. She's slowly getting used to some very strange and confusing new ideas -- for her, at least... and it's reassuring to know family's there for her if she needs it.

Carroll is always happy to be there for Alex, and will let her sit and think as long as she needs or even just wants. He thinks, Silly Alex. I'm glad you'll let me help, when I can, and doesn't hurry her at all. It's not as if he minds her comfortable closeness, or even the scent of lilacs.

An invitation arrives, shortly after the arrival of Alex' lilacs, for Carroll to have an informal lunch at the palace. Carroll quickly writes an acceptance and arrives late the next morning to be met by Matthew again.

Carroll smiles, "Hello, Matthew, how are you today? Is everything well?"

Matthew smiles. "Welcome, Captain. Everything is fine. Her Majesty wishes to dine outdoors today, so we're going to do our best. If you'll follow me...?" The mouse leads Carroll into the warren and up several flights of stairs before emerging onto the open top of one of the castle towers. A table has been set up in the bright sunshine, with a tablecloth carefully and strategically weighted down with flowerpots.

The view from here is spectacular, with Maidstone Bay spread out below, the shipping marking the water with V-shaped wakes and the shores lined with wharves and docks and a forest of masts. Carroll is still admiring the view a few minutes later when the queen joins him. "Thank you, Matthew."

The mouse bows and heads back down the stairs. Arianna watches him go with a smile before turning her attention back to the view. "Beautiful, isn't it?"

Carroll smiles and turns to face the Queen, bowing, "Good afternoon, your majesty. It is certainly pleasant to see you again. Thank you for inviting me." The fox looks around the view and says, "Yes, a lovely view, of a lovely country, with a lovely Queen." His gaze returns to the vixen for the last phrase.

The vixen snorts in a bit of wry amusement. "Flattery, Captain? I have mirrors, you know. I look a great deal too much like my father to be called lovely." She pauses, looking out at the bustle of the city and the shipping in the bay that supports her realm. "But I thank you for the sentiment."

Carroll shrugs and says, "There is far more to a person than the way they look, your majesty. In the end, that is what is far more important."

Arianna smiles. "Now that is a compliment I can't argue with, Captain. Thank you." She waves in the direction of the table. "Shall we have lunch? I did invite you for a meal."

Carroll nods, "Yes, you did, and I shall be happy to partake of it with you." He moves to the table and slides her chair back, letting her be seated before he moves to sit himself.

The table is set for two, and a tasty but not extravagant meal has been provided. There is a chicken dish in a tomato sauce, sweet potatoes, and a fruit salad. "Your father and Baroness Morgana have been keeping me up to date on the conference. I hope they can decide on a reasonable envoy to send to Costa Yermo. Do you have any opinions on it, Captain?"

Carroll admires the meal for a moment, considering the question seriously before he answers, "I fear that I do not know most of the people they would suggest as envoys well enough to make a sound judgement. Father has spoken to me about it somewhat, but I do not have an excellent grasp of all the people they might send. I trust his judgement. He did not seem to think they would pick someone particularly useful to send." He adds, after a moment's consideration, "I must admit, my focus has been on some other issues, so that Father could concentrate on this uninterrupted."

Arianna smiles, just a bit coquettish. "Oh? And what issues were these?"

Carroll answers, "I made a number of important people a promise which I intend to keep, and I have been making the preparations to do so. Actually, now that I think about it, several promises, to several parties."

Arianna looks curious. "You've been refitting the Saucy Mare, I know. Are you planning to go somewhere?"

Carroll takes a bite or two of his fruit salad and chews thoughtfully. He finally explains, "Yes. A year ago, when we set out to rescue our father, we stopped at Ettore island, a family holding of ours which Pravinchandra had not yet found a way to seize. We picked up supplies, crew, and more importantly, needed moral support. We left the families of others of our crew there, hopefully safe from Pravinchandra's long reach. When we left we'd spent the Solstice with them, and we promised them we would try and come back, with Father if possible." He takes another bite of the fruit, and after finishing that adds, "Because they trusted us, the people of Ettore gave us what we needed -- in many cases, their very children as crew -- to try and recover the family honor. How could I consider breaking that promise?"

Arianna looks enlightened. "Oh, of course you have to. I was hoping to ask you to spend the Solstice here with me, but you obviously have to honor this commitment." She stabs a bit of chicken. "Maybe next year?"

Carroll says, "Your Majesty, I would be very pleased to spend the Solstice with you. However, I must be in Ettore, both because I promised and because I want to be." He grins mischievously and asks, "Would you care to join me there? I am certain there would be plenty of room aboard the Saucy Mare for you." He starts in on his own chicken, taking a tiny bite while the Queen replies.

The vixen looks wistful. "I'd love to, Captain. Even if I had to sleep on the crew deck on the way. Ludmilla would have a fit, though. Maybe I could just run away with you... the Mare could outrun just about any ship in our fleet, couldn't she?"

Carroll laughs, then says, "While there would be a certain excitement to it, your majesty, I can't help but think that would be fairly foolish." Still chuckling, he adds, "Another promise I have made recently is to a lovely vixen, with whom I had just danced a tango. I promised her that I would speak with her formidable staff, and see if there was anything that could be done to let her have a chance to get out and see the world a bit." He sips from his glass, then continues, "I have done so, as I said I would. Ludmilla and Morgana would be happy to let you travel more, if only they could find places that were safe for you to go, and apparently they concur that a lumber mill on an isolated island owned by a suitor qualifies as 'safe.' If you like, you can come to Ettore with us. I, for one, would be very pleased to have your company."

Arianna brightens at that, her ears going straight up and her tail fluffing a bit in her excitement. "Really?? Oh, that's wonderful news! I can't believe you got them to agree to something like that!" She stops and looks suspicious. "You're not telling me fibs, are you?"

Carroll laughs, then says, "Oh, no, that would be a terribly cruel thing to do! Part of the preparations I am going through are because of my promise to them that I would do my best to make sure it was, indeed, a safe trip." He smiles, and adds, "You do the same things as Alex when you're happy and surprised. It's nice. I hope to see more of it."

Arianna gets a devilish look on her face, and says "Really?" She just smiles for a moment longer, then reaches over and snitches a strawberry from Carroll's fruit salad. She munches it happily. "Hmm... maybe they do taste better when they're stolen."

Carroll laughs! He says, "Yes, it's very nice. Shall I count your happiness as a 'yes' to the invitation?" and grins cheerfully.

Arianna smiles. "You should, Captain. Oh, this will be fun! This is going to be a less formal party than we'd have here, right? I have to decide what to wear..."

Carroll chuckles and says, "Considerably less formal, your majesty. I will make a point to work with your staff to ensure you have inconspicuous and appropriate dress. I might even suggest breeches, considering where we are going." He twirls his fork about merrily, and asks, "Who would expect the Queen of Maidstone in breeches, mm? I expect that once we're free of port and the eyes of Court, Alex may well encourage you to dress more comfortably and appropriately for the ship and Ettore. I certainly wouldn't object a bit."

He smiles and adds, "On a slightly more serious note, part of what I discussed with Morgana and Ludmilla was to bring your sister in and let her be more involved with how things run, so that in the worst case she would understand the politics, and there would be less dependence on and power given to a regent. She may also do some travelling; I hope so. The world is a marvelously educating place, and nothing quite so imparts wisdom as seeing it."

Arianna giggles at the idea of wearing breeches for a visit, since she only ever gets the chance when she's riding. As Carroll continues, she nods, more serious again. "Yes, Katrina should stay here if I go somewhere, and when I get back, she should travel herself. That's a very good idea. I have been involving her in the important meetings as much as possible, you know... and Ludmilla told me she was part of the group when you were working on rescuing me."

Carroll nods and says, "She did very well there, too. I cannot help but think letting her be more informed and involved, and treated as an intelligent adult, can do anything but good. In the best case she can become an aid and adviser to you, who understands what is going on and can help with difficult issues and decisions. In the worst, she inherits but at least knows how things are going, and there is as smooth a transition as possible. While I hope very much that the latter case is never needed, it would be foolish not to plan for it."

Arianna nods. "Very true. We need to be very careful about that sort of thing, since there are only the two of us now. The succession after Katrina is... problematic at the moment."

Carroll nibbles at his luncheon daintily, and says, "I didn't have to do much convincing, either. Ludmilla and Morgana both want what is best for you, and are merely concerned for your safety. All I had to do was offer them an example of how beneficial travel and world experience is, and to suggest ways they had not considered for you to do so safely." He has another little bite, then adds, "You are very lucky to have staff who is so concerned for you as a person, and not merely interested in the power they might collect. Do not be unhappy with them for worrying. If anything, thank them." At the queen's last comment Carroll nods and says obliquely, "Hopefully, time will resolve that issue to everyone's satisfaction."

Arianna focuses on the distant bay again. "I know, Carroll. From very personal experience, I assure you. Morgana gave me very good advice while I was trying to deal with the idiot they foisted on me as Regent, and Ludmilla... she took an arrow meant for me, you know, back when she was merely a sergeant in the King's Own, and not likely to rise any higher because she was a foreigner. I respect them both and... I love them very much, and in spite of my complaints, I let them keep me safe. Ludmilla cares about me, and Morgana cares about Maidstone." She looks back at Carroll, then. "I sometimes wish I hadn't been born with this position, but... someone has to do it, and I think I'm doing a decent job so far."

Carroll nods, "I think you're doing better than that, considering the things which have tried to stop you since you began. And I, for one, am glad you were born to the position, or I might never had met you."

The next morning, it is Diego who arrives, carrying a single potted plant. The leaves are an elegantly dark green, while the five-petaled flowers are a midnight blue with an exotic fragrance. The note reads I hope you have enjoyed these small tokens of my feelings for you, Sir Alexandra. If it would not be overbold, I would be honored if you would accompany me on a ride this afternoon. Carlos.

Alex gets a distinctly startled look this time, "Good heavens!" She stares at the flowers bemusedly, then almost with resignation barks back into the house, "Horry! Carya! I need some help again!"

Carroll hears Alex's exclamation and comes in asking, "What's wrong?"

Alex looks relieved, "Oh, good -- Carroll!" She looks a little sheepishly at Diego, then whispers to Carroll, "What do these mean?!"

Carroll says, "Diego, would you like to come in? It may be a moment before Alexandra can compose an appropriate reply. We would be pleased to offer you a drink while you wait." He murmurs to his sister, "I don't know; it's nothing I've heard of before."

Alex flicks her ears back in faint embarrassment, "I'm sorry, Diego. Do please come in?"

Horatio steps out, this time sans hissing potion but with muffin, but stops short when he sees the plant from across the way. In an instant he's over by Alex, leaning over the plant attentively and peering at it excitedly, his nose twitching as he takes in the scent. He doesn't look like he needs to taste it, however. "Oh, my," he says, his ears flicking. "Alex, this is... well, the alyssum was a gift in and of itself. This, now... this is Enchanter's Nightshade!"

Alex blinks at Horatio startledly, then studies the plant with a slightly taken aback look, "Uh... Horry, isn't nightshade um... poisonous?!" She absently breaks off a bit of Horatio's muffin and nibbles it, studying the plant interestedly while she waits for her alchemically inclined brother to reply.

Horatio is peering very closely at the flowers, almost in rapture. "Well, yes," he prattles. "In general the nightshade family is. But any nightshade is also very powerful in potions and alchemy. Oh, by the Elements! This is something we heard about in the Academy; we're taught it's very rare and very valuable. It's very strong in elemental magic." He straightens slightly, grinning. "Have a look at its aura."

Carroll politely sees Diego off in the hands of one of the household servants, to sit and find a drink and perhaps gossip a little out of the hearing of the nobles, which probably makes everyone involved perfectly satisfied. He shoos his siblings into a quieter room and asks, "So, what have we here again?"

Alex glances at Horatio curiously... then regards the plant thoughtfully, trying to see its aura after it's been carefully settled in the new room. The plant is indeed high in magic potential, the aura a blazing green-blue rather than the dull red that most plants possess. The flowers are especially bright, apparently concentrations of energy. Alex steps back in startlement, "Whoa! It's glowing!"

Upon hearing this Carroll considers the plant and says, "Interesting." He looks at Alex, "I have no idea what this might mean. Perhaps he's just spending more and more at the florist's, but I kind of doubt it." He considers for a moment more, then says, "It's quite likely he's serious, Alexandra."

Alex stares at it in amazement, "Look, guys! Look how bright it is -- as bright as a person! And the flowers are even brighter!" She steps forward in fascination, gently touching a leaf to see how it reacts.

Horatio grins as he sees Alex's expression. "It's incredible, isn't it? I've never seen its aura myself, but we were told on good authority that it's very, very strong." He appears thoughtful, looking at the plant again. "I don't know what it means in the language of flowers either, Carroll. But I don't think this is the sort of thing you get at a florist. You'd be able to buy it... but only after finding a very well-traveled alchemist or herbalist with a large greenhouse willing to part with it."

Carroll asks Alex, "Do you want to go riding with the Don today, Alex? He has been a perfect gentleman, and I don't worry for your safety." He gestures at the impressive plant, adding, "You could ask him what he was thinking with such a beautiful, unusual, and even extravagant gift, perhaps."

Horatio bobs his head. "And where he got it! If it's found in Costa Yermo..." A small, mild panoply of emotions dances across his mask for a little bit, before he smiles sheepishly to Alex. "Erm... sorry... it's just exciting."

Alex says softly, "Serious... good heavens, Carroll, this would bribe a mage, from the sound of it! Where'd it come from? How'd he find it -- let alone get it here safely?!" She blinks, yanking her finger back at first touch with a startled, "*yip*!" -then pauses... then gently touches again. Her voice is awed, "It's like... it's like a tingle! Can you feel it, Horry? It feels like... like people! Like there's energy there that can be tapped if they let you, and if you're careful they just get it back naturally, you know? -like... what did you call them... storage cells! Like storage cells for aura energy..." Then she looks up at Carroll a moment later, still rather bemused looking, "Uh... what? Did you say something?"

Carroll says, "Interesting. If you can use this plant that way, it is a valuable gift indeed. We may need to see about a gardener." He chuckles and repeats himself, "Do you want to go riding with the Don today, Alex? He has been a perfect gentleman, and I wouldn't worry for your safety. You could thank him for such a beautiful, unusual, and even extravagant gift, perhaps."

Alex nods emphatically to Carroll, then looks back at the plant, still rather astonished looking, "Oh, yes, definitely! It'd be terrible if anything bad happened to it because we didn't know how to take best care of it!" She pauses, then straightens, "Oh! Oops, I forgot in the excitement -- um..." She pauses, thinking... then gives Carroll a faintly worried look, "Carya... is it um... proper, to accept such..." she glances at the plant, "-well... such amazing and extravagant gifts?"

Carroll considers, then says, "I see no reason why not. He is, after all, courting you. It should cost no more than fine jewelry which would be perfectly expected." He grins, and adds, "The Don certainly did find some unusual things to send, and hasn't gotten bogged down with clothes or other frippery."

Horatio blinks, looking to Alex, and reaches out to touch one of the petals. "I don't know if I could, Alex. I'm not sensitive, I'm just an alchemist. The only way I could tell if this was really magical -- aside from recognizing it -- is to get a precipitate of aqua vitae, heated by a sublimate of mercury dipped in the athanor for seven minutes less one, place a leaf within the mixture while- erm..." He grins softly. "Sorry. I can't tell, myself. But I can tell by your reactions that it's very strong in magic."

Alex nods several times emphatically to Horatio, "Oh, it is, it definitely is, Horry!" She smiles at the plant, adding, "It's just... it's an amazing glow!"

Horatio tilts his head to the side, looking to her. "Have you ever told the Don that you're something of a mage?"

Alex absently eats the rest of the bit of muffin she swiped from Horatio, "Nope, but I imagine he's heard about the assassination attempt? Oh, and I said I could see his aura..."

Horatio nods slowly, looking at the plant and, now, simply admiring it. "Hmm. It would be a very appropriate gift for someone sensitive to magic -- the aura sounds magnificent; it makes me wish I was sensitive -- though I imagine not many non-mages would know that."

Carroll says, "An Ambassador might, or might merely have very good staff who can find things. It hardly matters; it's certainly a well-considered gift."

Horatio grins to Carroll. "The Heavens couldn't have helped him if he had sent her a dress... unless, of course, it was a dancing dress with a cunningly-concealed rapier scabbard..."

Alex giggles at Horatio! Carroll shushes Horatio and says, "Now I can't get her one!" and grins.

Alex laughs! -then gives a mock-glare at her eldest brother, "Tease!"

Carroll smiles, and asks again, "Do you want to go riding with the Don today, Alex? We should let Diego go." He adds, "And, you might want to write a thank you note and acceptance, for Diego to take back."

Alex hms thoughtfully, staring at the plant, then looks up at Carroll and nods, "Yup, I wouldn't mind at all. I mean... well, wow! -three amazing plants in one day... either they all arrived at once, or he's got something really important he wants to te-" She cuts off suddenly, her eyes widening -- then says, "eep!" in a small voice.

Horatio laughs and nods obligingly to Carroll, looking appropriately, if jokingly, rebuked. He blinks to Alex, though, when she makes the sound. "What? What is it, Alex?"

Alex sounds a little panicky as she says, "You don't think... I mean, he certainly wouldn't uhhh... pop the question this quickly, would he?!"

Carroll nods and says, "Yes, he might. That's part of the risk of being courted."

Alex gives Carroll, then the plant, an equally horrified look, "But I don't want to be asked yet! I haven't had time to decide!!"

Horatio blinks, a little dumbfounded. 'Pop the question?' What question? To ask Alex to come visit Costa Yermo? No, that can't be it. But what other... ooooh. Horatio gets the look at first of the man enlightened, then his ears cock off-kilter. "It's... er... I mean... it's a bit early, isn't it, Carroll?"

Alex wrings her paws together, looking around as if she's about to bolt out the door and hide, "Darnit, I'm just not sure yet! I haven't met his people, or had him meet ours, or... I mean, and... and..." she pauses, straightening and adds with dignity, "-well -- I mean, darnit, it's just too soon!"

Carroll answers matter-of-factly, "If he asks, then I suggest the truth." He continues, "Start by telling him how charming he has been, and how much you have enjoyed the fighter practice, and the time you have spent with him. Then tell him that you haven't yet decided, that you are concerned about how his family might react and about the attitudes of Costa Yermo, and that it is not a decision you wish to rush in to. Let him know that you hope he understands your answer is a very firm, 'I don't know yet.'" Carroll catches his pacing sister, and adds, "You can then tell him that you need to meet his family and his people, and he should meet yours. Only when you're sure you can live and be happy with him, and he with you, could you in good conscience give him an answer of 'yes'."

Alex blinks at Carroll, her whiskers and her tail still all fluffed up in anxiety... then sighs in relief once he's done speaking, "Oh, of course! Sheesh, why didn't I think of that?" She beams at Carroll, "That's perfect, thank you!"

Horatio says matter-of-factly, "If he does ask, I think he'll be perfectly accepting of that answer." He gets an odd look on his face, then glances to Carroll. "Erm... how long -- usually -- in courting is it before, erm... the question gets asked...?"

Carroll says to Alex, "In all likelihood he merely wants to go riding and spend some more time with you, and to buy you nice things and make you happy, none of which should be scary or upsetting."

Alex listens intently to Carroll, occasionally nodding as she absently pulls her tail around in front of her and smoothes it down with one paw. When he's done, she grins in relief again, "Okay! Riding -- yeah! Be right back, guys... gotta go write something nice to say yes to the riding invite." She trots briskly off to compose a tidy and polite note to the don, informing him that she regretfully already has plans for the afternoon, but would love to go riding with him at dawn tomorrow, if he'd like?

Carroll answers Horatio, "Depends, really. Six months at minimum, probably, to a year being quite common. Nobility or people with issues to resolve may take longer."

Horatio blinks to Carroll. "A... year, you say." His ears flick, sometimes in completely different directions, frowning. "Where in the names of the Elements has the time gone..." he murmurs.

Alex is up and ready at dawn the next day, for when she and the don are to wander around and explore the new estate on horseback. She's 'cheated' slightly -- already knowing one or two pretty places on the estate means she can ask one of the servants to be there around early noonish with a nice picnic basket. However, the rest of the estate should be new to both of them -- including what she thinks might be a nice little cross-country course that can be faintly spotted in places, from the higher floors of the mansion. She's looking forward to trying out one of the lovely, long-legged thoroughbred crosses too! She's mounted up and quietly walking around the mansion as she waits.

Don Carlos arrives at sunrise with Diego and a pair of armsmen in company. He is riding a magnificent bay gelding with the feather-feet characteristic of Clydesdales, and is dressed in clothing that shows where his formal attire comes from... high boots and tight trousers, but with a heavy cloth that will resist the stress of contact with the saddle. He is wearing a ruffled shirt and the ubiquitous jacket, but without a tie this fine morning.

Alex perks up happily as the small group turns down the driveway, and waves. She's in her usual neat-but-every-day riding clothing, with the concession of a nice jacket to keep her warm in the early morning chill. She clicks softly to her leggy thoroughbred, and it canters easily over to the group. "Hello!"

Don Carlos smiles as Alex rides up. "Buenos dias, señorita." He presents her with yet another bouquet, this one of flowers consisting of a myriad of small petals, a darker center surrounded by a lighter outer ring... some are white with cream centers, some pink with dusky rose centers, still others rose with violet centers. The leaves of the flowers are a silvery-green. "And I brought these for you as well. I hope you deed not mind thees idea of mine."

Alex blinks, Is the man made of flowers?! then hastily stifles that thought and grins, "Good heavens..." She knees her tall gelding over next to the don's horse, accepting the flowers with a smile, "Thank you, señor." She sniffs thoughtfully, then grins over the flowers at him, "You'll have to tell me what these signify too, I think, yes?" Before he can answer she giggles softly, then waves towards the house, "Come around the back -- there's some wine for you there if you'd like before we ride." She nudges her horse into an easy canter again, leading the small group around to the back.

Don Carlos follows with his small retinue, his seat and his armsmens' sure, though poor Diego tends to bounce more than sit. "The xeranthemum, they tell me, ees a seembol of cheerfulness. I was fortunate that there was such an auspeecious flower of an 'x'..."

Alex glances over her shoulder and grins at the don with a flash of teeth and scarlet fur -- then turns to face where she's going, puzzling over that last comment. Then she suddenly gets it -- and tosses her head back, laughing! A moment later she grins over her shoulder again, "You never cease to amaze me!"

Carlos grins, happy with the result of his floral bombardment. "Thees ees as eet should be, for you do the same to me, Sir Alexandra."

Alex draws rein by the back stairways, still grinning cheerfully, and leans to give the bouquet of flowers to a servant to put in a nice vase. She accepts a small glass of wine from the butler with murmured thanks, and waits until the don has his before she grins, kneeing her gelding over next to his. Carefully, so there's no mishap, she gently chimes her goblet against his, smiling, "To... what shall we toast to, señor?"

The coyote looks thoughtful, considering this. "Someday I would like to dreenk to us. But for today, I theenk we should toast... to fameely." He raises his glass with a glance to watch Alex's reaction.

Alex nods thoughtfully, "That's an excellent one, yes. To family." Once again she gently chimes her glass against his, then has a sip.

Carlos smiles again, and takes a long sip of his own. "You have great fortune een your fameely, Sir Alex. Always treasure thees."

Alex's gaze travels up the back of the big mansion, picking out the windows of the rooms she knows her brothers and father are in. She says softly, her tone quietly heartfelt, "Oh, yes... with my life if necessary."

Carlos nods. "Eef need be. Steell, eet ees better to let your enemies be the ones to geeve up their lives, si?"

Alex grins, her gaze returning to the coyote, "Sounds good to me!" She sips her tiny drink a few more times, then smiles, setting it on the butler's tray, "So... let me know when you're ready, yes?"

Carlos finishes his wine as well, and follows Alex's lead with the glass. "Shall we be on our way, then?" He turns his bay in the direction of the trails, sitting easily as a horseman born.

Alex will warn the don that her big mare is a kicker, so he knows to keep his gelding back, then heads out in a long-striding walk for the trails. Once they're off the lawn and onto the actual trails, winding under the trees, she nudges her mare into a long, ground-covering trot, calling cheerfully over her shoulder, "All the jumps I've seen so far have wind-arounds if you want... and I've not seen anything over four foot or so, so it shouldn't be any problem either way!"

Don Carlos just smiles, calling back, "I do not theenk either of us weell need to use wind-arounds for such low jumps!" His feather-footed bay demonstrates his accuracy shortly afterward, easily jumping the first low fence.

Alex reassures herself with a backward glance that the don's a steady rider, then beams and turns back to enjoy herself. The one square mile estate is about 641 acres -- she knows the trails wind for miles within it, festooned with jumps, a wide stream, hundreds of acres of heavy timber, and occasional lovely little meadows like grassy emerald jewels in the thick forest. She's exploring mostly -- taking trails she's not tried before, testing out the big chestnut mare, and joyfully making the most of the gorgeous morning -- not too hot nor far along into the day yet, not too cool from the night, and just enough of a breeze to fan back her ruff as they ride.

Don Carlos rides with Alex in companionable silence for the most part, beside her when he can, and close behind when the trail narrows down to single file in the woods. Occasionally Alex will catch him gazing at her and her horse with admiration.

Alex carefully rides along the edges of the fields when the trails head out that way, not wanting to disturb the food crops and hay growing in the various sections. Mostly, however, she tends to follow the timber trails winding into the shady, thick woods -- she knows forest covers a good half or so of the estate, and she'd like to know them all, given enough time.

Alex grins a little self-consciously at the don, patting the big mare's gleaming shoulder. "Isn't she lovely? She gleams almost gold in the sunlight... she's a talented jumper, I think, despite being a bit too free with her teeth and hooves sometimes."

Carlos smiles. "Speereeted horses are rarely docile een other ways, milady. She ees lovely. Have you had her a long time, or ees she from thees estate?"

Alex shakes her head, "I'm afraid all the horses I was raised with are still on the estate in Starfall." She sighs faintly, then smiles ruefully, "I wouldn't want to risk them in a sea voyage if I didn't have to... no, she's from the estate." She giggles softly, adding, "Were it not for her name, she probably wouldn't have caught my eye, either -- the first time we met she tried to bite me!"

Carlos nods at the difficulty of transporting horses by sea, and twitches an ear at the second comment. "She seems to know you already, though. She ees called who?"

Alex grins at the don delightedly, "Noblesse Oblige. No kidding... that's what they told me her name was!"

Carlos laughs then, a rich, merry sound. "How appropreeate! For truly she ees a noble horse, milady."

Alex grins cheerfully, "Isn't she though?" She happily discusses bloodlines with the don while the horses walk to cool down a bit... at least until the trail narrows again and they pick up the pace.

Carlos is both knowledgeable and pleased to discuss horses with Alex. "Apaciblito here ees from a long line of cavalry, but he has not the requeeseete temperament for that job. He does have fine lines, though, does he not?"

Alex grins at the big, calm gelding, "What does his name mean? He does look like cavalry, yes... nice, strong, clean lines."

Carlos grins. "Gentleness, or Gentle One. He would not face the enemy even een traineeng, you see."

Alex says, "Aww, that's sweet!" She smiles, regarding the pretty gelding, then looks up at the don, still smiling, "Sometimes a gentle heart comes out of even the most martial families." She thinks of her clever, gentle brother, most content when immersed in his studies... she's glad he's thinking of asking Jessie to marry him this Solstice. She hopes Jessie agrees.

Don Carlos chuckles. "Si, but one should be able to learn to fight even eef you do not enjoy eet."

Alex glances at the don, "I... do you mean the ability to learn to fight should be available to all?"

Carlos frowns as he thinks about that. "Even one of the campesinos weell fight eef he must, even eef they do not do eet well. But a nobleman..." He stops and twitches an ear in self-amusement. "...or a noblewoman... has a duty to protect hees people, wheech eencludes learning the ways of battle, si?"

Alex nods, "Quite true. I guess I can't help but think of Horatio, though... he's not a stand-up fighter by any stretch of the imagination, but I'd gladly have him at my back in a fight -- I'd know he wouldn't run, and would do his best to defend and protect me as well. But... forcing him to learn to fight?" She thinks about that for a while, remembering how much her gentle brother had hated fighter practices... and had gladly swapped practice time to her, so their father wouldn't realize what was up. She shakes her head, "No, I wouldn't want to force him to learn how to fight. That's not his area of strength. I'd rather he learn what he's good at -- because that makes us all stronger, by covering our weaknesses." She grins a little apologetically at the don, "Sorry, didn't mean to go all metaphorical on you there..."

Carlos nods as Alex explains. "True. But... he has learned a way to help you protect your people, after all. Eet ees not as eef he ees hideeng and letteeng someone do hees job for heem."

Alex nods firmly, "Oh, definitely not that, no." She pauses, then says curiously, "Are there folks who do that in Costa Yermo? -hire someone else to do the protecting of their people, instead of doing it themselves?"

Carlos nods. "A few. Some have done eet because they have been eenjured een battle and their sons are not yet grown, and thees ees accepted, of course. Some do eet because they are cowards who hide behind their duties of the manor, and thees ees wheespered about. Eet ees more acceptable to hire a... seneschal, si, that ees eet... to run a manor than to hire a blade to protect eet. Of course, the deeference ees seemply where you are een battle, for most lords must hire some mercenaries to meet their levies."

Alex nods slowly and thoughtfully, then curiously asks, "So... if things are that unsettled in Costa Yermo, why haven't the weaker lords had their estates snapped up?"

Carlos says, "Eh? Because most of the levies are een the royal armies, of course. And most of the nobeeleety ees weeth the army as well. Leetle enough remains on the estates except to poleece banditry, not enough for one noble to war on another."

Alex looks even more thoughtful, "So... right now the prince is actually keeping the nobility from attacking each other, through the army?"

Carlos nods. "He ees not eenterested een any of the nobles consoleedateeng more power than he has personally, either. Hees father had the same beliefs, but deed not have quite the same desire to expand hees borders.

Alex hms, running her fingers idly through her mare's chestnut mane as she considers, "So... how did his father maintain the army? What did he do with it?"

Carlos says, "The King deed not maintain such a large army. Seence he has... retired from publeec life, the Preence has greatly eencreased the size of the levy."

Alex nods again, "So what would happen if the levy were decreased, and the Inquisitors dissolved? Where would all those young men go, do you know?"

Alex ponders, then essays, "The navy, maybe? To get rid of all the pirates?"

Carlos shrugs. "Most would go back to their homes... the backbone of the army ees the gauchos. Small ranchers. Some could go to the Navy, si. Some are foreign mercenaries, and would be sent home again, or at least back to their Geeld."

Carlos says, "Eet would be a better theeng for all concerned, for weethout the gauchos there has been... more frequent fameenes."

Alex hms... "So it's like most armies then -- the nobility are the officers? Sounds like it wouldn't be such a bad thing to..." She pauses, then shakes her head in bemusement, "Famines too? Good heavens... what isn't happening there?"

Carlos shrugs. "Eet ees not a fameene een the sense of people starveeng, but... more hungry than they should be, si? But weeth too many people een the army and not enough on the ranches..." He shakes himself. "But thees ees not a conversation for today, ees eet? We have you to talk about!"

Alex nods slowly... then blinks at the don a little startledly, "Er... we do?" She looks a bit worried, "Did I forget something I shouldn't have?" -then brightens at a sudden thought, "Do you have inside information on what's happening at the meeting?" Curiously she asks, "Who's the new envoy? Have they decided yet?"

Carlos smiles and nudges Apaciblito into a canter long enough to pull up alongside Alex's mount. He is just starting to lean towards her when she asks about the conference. He sighs and straightens up again. "I theenk they are steell deescusseeng eet. I was hopeeng your father could tell me when I next meet heem."

Alex gives a small snort of laughter, "Daddy says it's like herding cats! I'm going to guess they'll stall about it right up to the point that they have to leave for Solstice!"

Carlos looks quite puzzled for a long moment. "But... one cannot herd..." He coughs, trying to stifle a most un-macho giggle as the joke penetrates the language barrier. "Ah... ahem... I see. Si, eet would have some resemblance, would eet not?" He nods. "Probably. Theese Counceel of yours ees not... deciseeve, one might say."

Alex grins cheerfully at the don, delighted with both the giggle and the success of her father's joke, "Yup, one might!" -then adds a bit less delightedly, "It's a shame they won't let their nobility take care of them."

Carlos nods. "Thees ees what happens when you allow campesinos to run sometheeng. Eet ees even worse than when you have an unworthy noble, si?"

Alex says honestly, "I don't know. I've not seen first hand what it's like with unworthy nobles." Her nose wrinkles slightly in disgust as she adds, "All I've seen is how utterly hashed up it can get when you let merchants run everything."

Carlos agrees. "Wheech ees why we do not. Eef only..."

Alex smiles ruefully at the don, "Indeed... if only." She sighs softly, thinking for a bit as the horses canter easily down one of the trails... then looks up again, "Oh! Um... it's almost noon. Are you hungry at all?"

The trail opens out into a long straight stretch between fields of wheat with a five-foot jump at the far end, wide enough for three or four horses at once. "Ah-hah!" Carlos grins and points to the pond beyond the barrier, at the edge of another patch of forest where a sharp pair of eyes can see two furrs are setting up a picnic lunch. "Perhaps we should race right there?"

Alex laughs, "Sure, as long as you're sure you can stop before we hit the forest edge!" She grins, her eyes bright, and nudges the big mare into an easy, ground-covering canter -- she knows well enough the two horses will abruptly throw themselves into a mad gallop, racing each other, without any help from their riders! Carlos grins and taps his bay firmly with his heels. The big gelding breaks into a canter, then a gallop to catch up with Noblesse Oblige, who responds by breaking into a gallop herself. The two horses race on, with their riders laughing and urging them on side-by-side.

Alex leans forward, pressed tight against Noblesse, laughing as the wind flicks the big mare's mane up against her face. She sits back just enough to be sure the jump is cleared on stride, then cheerfully leans down again for the home stretch. Apaciblito clears the fence just a touch behind the mare, but the race is barely long enough for his cavalry-bred endurance to show, and Don Carlos races past the picnic lunch just a half-length in the lead. He pulls up, then, overshooting by a bit as the gelding slows and then trots back toward the lunch.

Alex peels off in a large circle to slow the big mare down, not wanting to have to haul on her mouth. Once Noblesse is walking again, Alex ambles back towards the servants with a cheerful wave, "Hi there! Thank you for setting things up!" She hops down lightly and hands the reins to one of the servants, then waits for the don to do the same before heading for lunch. Carlos lets his horse slow to a walk on the way back to the lunch, and dismounts before handing the reins to the groom. "They can have some water and graze while we have our lunch, as well. They have been very well behaved thees morning, si?"

Alex smiles and nods, "Quite... this'll be a chance for them to cool down." She waves a small paw towards the picnic lunch, "Shall we?"

Carlos bows and gestures Alex ahead. "After you, milady."

The grooms let the horses graze a bit before taking them down to drink, but are careful to stay out of immediate earshot. Alex grins and tucks her paw into his arm, "Perhaps it would be more meet for us to settle down together for lunch, mm?" She suits her actions to her words, sitting cross-legged and looking interestedly over as Don Carlos investigates the contents of the basket. "Thees looks eenteresteeng..."

Alex brightens at seeing what the cook's given them for lunch, "Mmm... looks good!"

Carlos nods. "Eet does, most certainly." He begins to open various covered dishes, seeing what is in them, and offering to fill up a plate for Alex.

Alex will cheerfully nibble lunch and enjoy both the day and the company for several minutes, until her hunger and thirst is at least somewhat slaked. Once that's taken care of, she smiles at the don, "So... I hope you're having a nice day so far?"

The don sits back and nods. "A lovely day, si. Quite possibly the nicest morneeng I have spent here een Maidstone."

Alex beams happily... then realizes a little nervously that she can't recall what exactly they were talking about before the little race -- and she's got no idea what to say to the don! She nibbles on a piece of chicken and wonders a little worriedly if the don will get along with her people... or if his will with her. Carlos remembers, but is not about to let the conversation return to politics if he can help it. "So, Sir Alex. You enjoy horses, and sheeps, and you are a most accompleeshed dancer and swordswoman, and a mage. Ees there anytheeng that I have overlooked about your accompleeshments?"

Alex blinks, her focus abruptly returning to the present, "Er, pardon?" She thinks about that, then looks a bit self-conscious again... she'll lick her fingers thoughtfully to give herself a moment to consider a reply. Finally she says, "Um... well, I'm afraid that's probably the most of it, really. I mean, Daddy made sure we all knew how to run the estate, in case the rest of us were off somewhere on family business, but that hardly counts?" She curiously asks, "What do you like doing?

Carlos nibbles on a chicken leg, waiting for Alex to get over her shyness. "Eet counts, certainly. I am glad that thees was not neglected een your education. Myself? I am but a humble emeessary of my liege the Keeng. A scholar of heestory, as ees appropreeate for an ambassador, and a horseman of some repute een my nateeve land. I thought I was an accompleeshed swordsman, but you have sadly deesabused me of such unwarranted pride." He grins at that last, actually giving her a friendly wink.

Alex grins a little sheepishly, "Um... well, I think Daddy sorta hoped I'd be the one staying at home..." She giggles softly, adding, "I guess he knows better now!" A sip of her drink later she smiles at the wink, helpfully pointing out, "Well, technically your execution of the various moves is very nice, you know?" A moment later she says curiously, "Where is the king now? Do you know?" She pauses a moment as a realization hits her, then adds slowly, "Don Carlos, you sound... well, almost... self-effacing. Is that what's polite in Costa Yermo?"

Carlos frowns in thought. "Do you know, I am not sure? He left the capeetal for reasons of health, eet was announced... but where he went, I do not know. Eet was not said..." He shrugs at Alex's second question. "Eet ees never polite to boast about oneself, Sir Alex. Eef you are respected, others weell do eet for you, and eef you are not..." He finishes up with a very lopsided grin. "There are those who do boast of themselves, of course, but even eef eet were polite, a deeplomat should be quiet and leesten, not loud and always talkeeng." The grin turns from lopsided to feral for just a moment. "You cannot learn while your mouth ees open."

Alex nods thoughtfully, "If nothing else, you learn more that way, true." She grins quietly... then sets her emptied plate aside and flops out comfortably on her stomach, booted feet crossed behind her. "So... how come you didn't find out where the king is?" Her voice is sincerely curious, and she adds, "I wasn't raised with royalty... Queen Arianna is rather new to me. It's very interesting how the balance of power changes with royalty as well as nobility."

Carlos says, "Eet ees not easy for me to do thees from here. I was already on my way to thees post when hees retirement was announced..." He nods. "She ees very conscienteeous, and weell be a good queen for her people. Eef only she could be a good queen for mine, but..." He sighs. "Your brother ees quite taken weeth her, ees he not? And I could not see her happy weeth Iago, even eef eet would be good for Costa Yermo."

Alex gives the don a rather sympathetic glance, but just nods quietly at his questions -- then points out, in an effort to cheer the don up a bit, "It's not like she'd have been allowed to be a good queen for your people either, though, right?"

Carlos shrugs. "From behind the scenes, perhaps? Thees ees how eet has been in my country. Hees majesty had advice from hees queen, after all, and my father from my mother. Eet might have been a good theeng. But eet weell not be, I know thees. The question ees truly now, how long can thees be secret from Hees Highness."

Alex smiles ruefully, "I'm surprised you didn't have more irritated and aggravated women, if you kept sticking them behind things." At the second question she sighs softly, "Well... I'd think her calling an emergency session of the League of Killimara to address his aggression would send a pretty strong message, no?"

Carlos nods. "Si. So I theenk eet ees a matter of weeks now. Eet weell be... eenteresting. I do not suppose I could persuade you to veeseet weeth me?

Alex says curiously, "Visit what?"

Carlos says, "My homeland. Punta Fuego. The desert and the mountains of Costa Yermo..."

Alex looks a little surprised... then says softly, "You expect to be recalled soon?" She pauses, considering what the don reported concerning his children's hostage status... then says even more softly, "What do you expect, if I may ask?"

Carlos nods. "Hees highness weell not be pleased at being turned down, I suspect, especeeally so abruptly. I weell probably be recalled to explain why thees has happened. Eef he ees not too angry, I may be returned to my post. Eef he ees, then I may be baneeshed to my estates, wheech ees not the worst theeng that could happen. He has not made a point of treateeng the nobeeleety weeth the same... penalties as merchants or campesinos who deesplease heem."

Alex looks a little worried, "Er... so... what's the worst then?"

Carlos snorts. "That would be eef he geeves me an appointment een the capeetal eetself. Then I remain under hees eye unteel he can theenk of sometheeng for me to do to show hees deespleasure. Perhaps appoint me as junior legate to Uljurra or Borealees." He shudders at the thought of those far-northern realms.

Alex looks a little glum, "So... you don't expect to be here for much longer, I take it?" She sighs a little disappointedly... then wonders a bit confusedly how one courts... when one is on another continent than the courted one?!

Carlos says, "I am not certain of eet, no. So... I am rusheeng theengs a leetle beet, perhaps."

Alex says, "Rushing what?" She blinks, "Surely you've not sent him the information about the queen not being interested already?"

Carlos grins mischievously. "I should have spread the flowers out over a month, not two days, for eenstance." He snorts at her next question, "No, thees I am not planneeng to tell heem any queecker than I must."

Alex says, "Oh!" Her ear tips turn a little pink... then she grins shyly at the coyote, "Umm... well, I still think they were beautiful... that reminds me! Horatio wants to know where you got the alyssum and the Enchanter's Nightshade!" She giggles, "I think he's in love with them!"

Carlos's ears go straight up and he gets the most outrageously boggled look on his face. "But I am not weesheeng your brother to be een love weeth me!"

Alex laughs! -then grins delightedly, "Nono, he's just a scientist at heart -- and all of a sudden two unusual and exotic plants turn up on his doorstep? Of course he wants to know all about them, and how you found them!" She giggles again, adding, "That's the cutest boggled look!"

Carlos settles back down to an impudent grin. "I am hopeeng that you enjoyed them as well. The alyssum ees not deefeecult, nor the lilacs or the xeranthemum, of course... I can geeve heem the name of the floreest eef he ees truly eenterested. The Enchanter's Nightshade was more challengeeng. I had to talk to the local Mage's Guild and assured them that I was geeveeng eet to you. They should be sending someone to brief you on how to care for eet tomorrow, een fact. They would have not sold eet to me even so eef I had not asked Baroness Morgana to intercede for me." He grins at the last bit. "Deed you like eet? I have practeeced eet on and off seence I first met Her Grace, Duchess White Haven."

Alex brightens interestedly at the news that someone from the mage's guild will help her keep the plant in good health -- then curiously asks, "Wait... why would they insist you give it to me? Oh, yuppers, I bet Horatio would love the name of your florist!" She pauses, considering his last statement, then laughs, "You have? Heavens, you surely don't expect it to actually work with her though?"

Carlos shrugs. "Not you een parteecular, but a mage. As for the Duchess... eet ees not a matter of eet workeeng on her. She just geeves me ample opportunity to practeece."

Alex giggles again at that image! then grins, "Er... so is it bad for the plant to be owned by a non-mage then?"

Carlos says, "Not bad, but they conseeder eet a waste. They are not easy to grow, and they have mageekal properties, I am told."

Alex nods enthusiastically, "Oh, yes! They're so pretty -- they glow, did you know?"

Carlos shrugs again. "I am told thees, and I am pleased eet ees true."

Alex adds a little wistfully, "I wish I could show it to you... how it looks. Horry too... I know he'd love to be able to see it." She pauses, thinking a bit... then nervously decides to ask the big question, "So... um... if it's okay for me to ask... what, uh, what happens in regards to, um, us, don Carlos, if you get recalled?"

Carlos looks very serious at that question, and turns to take Alex's hands in his own. "Een that case, I would ask you to accompany me. Eef you could persuade her Majesty -- or your father, for thees matter -- to grant you deeplomateec offeece, you would be safe, eef thees worries you. I would like for you to meet my niñitos and see my homeland. Do you theenk you could perhaps do thees?"

Alex blinks a bit surprisedly, her head starting up and back a little -- then she stops herself to consider the suggestion seriously, without panickedly yanking her small paws back. Finally she says carefully, "Don Carlos... I'm not sure what good your being accompanied by me would do. It might be different if my brothers were there as well... it would, after all, be good to settle the issues your prince has with Carroll once and for all. It would also be good to get rid of the prince entirely, if you ask just me -- and better for your poor people as well. However, I'm not sure your prince is rational enough to honor diplomatic immunity, if he thought just killing my brothers would solve all his problems with Arianna... and he sounds irrational enough that he might well leap to such a conclusion."

She adds thoughtfully, "Furthermore, I want to be sure you are comfortable with my people as well, and they with you. I'd like you to meet them, just as much as I'd like to meet your people." She looks up for a moment, seeing the horses grazing, the forest beyond, the two servants watching over the horses... and she smiles, then looks back to the don, still smiling, "My father taught me that greater privilege demands greater responsibilities. It's been a firm decision of mine all through my life that someday I would have people of my own to care for... and that I should do my best to care for as many as I could, as well as I could. To do otherwise would be to shirk my duty... so... I'd like to take this slow and careful, don Carlos. I hope you understand?"

Carlos looks thoughtful. "Hees highness ees not eerrationally violent, milady. Eef he was planneeng to send assasseens after anyone, they would be just as likely to attack you here as there. Eet would be more obvious in Ciudad Draco, een fact, so he might refrain even eef he had such plans. He ees not stupeed, after all." He nods at the vixen's second statement. "I would like to meet your fameely's people also. Thees ees why I asked what I deed. I know eet ees too early to ask any... more eemportant questions, si? We are, after all, from deeferent places een many ways. I hope that there can be a breedge between us, but we must beeld eet slowly and carefully so eet ees strong."

Alex looks faintly relieved that the don understands, as she nods, "I would rather go slowly and be sure, yes, please." She pauses, thinking a bit more, then says carefully, "Are you saying that you believe the prince would likely not send assassins against my family, were we in Ciudad Draco, or some other part of Costa Yermo?" She grins faintly as she adds, "Diplomatic immunity would doubtless be nice, but I bet it would rather defeat your earlier-stated desired purpose of teaching some of the more foolish young men that a women can fight just as well as they, don't you think?"

Carlos grins. "Ah, but eemuneety from arrest ees not the same as being not allowed to accept a challenge, or to make one. As for Hees Highness... I would say eet ees less likely. I would not say eet ees eemposeeble, merely that he would be more likely to try such a theeng eef you were somewhere else. There ees also the point that he may not know who Arianna's suitor ees. I have not told heem thees, and Colonel Rivera's organeezation ees een some deesarray at the moment."

Alex looks interested, "Really now... I think Carroll would definitely like to hear that." She adds, almost as an afterthought, "Er... but then why did you ask me if I wanted you to waive diplomatic immunity, so we could duel?" A moment later she blinks, then adds mischievously, "Good heavens... you expected a cakewalk with a little girl, didn't you?!"

Carlos' ears twitch a bit, and he looks a bit confused by the idiom. "Not a... cakewalk? Thees means sometheeng easy? I thought I would ween, and I am pleased I deed not have to find out the hard way. But the point ees that eef I weeshed, I could have honorably -- well, not deeshonorably -- avoided the challenge because I hold the offeece I do. I offered to let you have the duel because I thought eet was the right theeng."

Alex grins mischievously, "A cakewalk -- something so easy that it's ludicrous -- like if you were able to fence and hold a cake and not disturb it? That would be an easy opponent, right?" She giggles, then says cheerfully, "So... you don't mind my wanting to take the time to introduce you to family and my people and all? -and my meeting yours too?"

Carlos looks astonished. "Milady, I would be worried eef you deed not want thees. How else to teach me of yourself, and for you to learn of me? I could be telling stories. Eet ees my job, after all."

Alex beams, "Oh, good! Okay, I was worried you might be upset that I didn't want to just go to Costa Yermo right away." She adds happily, "Daddy was asking if we'd be willing to have the Mare be the ship the possible envoy went on to Costa Yermo -- maybe we could make a stop at Punta del Fuego? Or... oooh!" she brightens, "Maybe you could ride down there with us?!" She pauses, then says a little worriedly, "Um... what're you going to tell the prince when he asks you to explain what happened with Arianna?"

Carlos shrugs. "I weell tell heem the truth, and hope he can accept eet. Queen Arianna decided that she should ally herself weeth Starfall rather than weeth Costa Yermo, and notheeng I could say would change her mind." He grins. "The fact that she also likes Captain St. Genevieve better than Prince Iago ees sometheeng we need not mention, si?" The coyote grins at the second question. "I theenk I would like notheeng better than to ride to my home weeth you, but I am not sure I could explain thees too easily."

Alex nods, looking a bit relieved again that her brother seems to be out of trouble... then hms at the don's second statement, "So... I take it Punta del Fuego is not on the way to the capital? Or do you mean the prince would be upset if you came in a Starfall ship?"

Carlos says, "Both, I theenk. Eef you had just stolen hees eentended queen from heem? I can theenk of easier ways to conveence heem I was trustworthy. Thees would not be a good theeng." He thinks about it a bit more. "Steell... eet might depend on how urgent the summons ees. I might be able to pass through my home even eef eet ees out of the way."

Alex thinks for a moment also... then smiles and shakes her head, "Wouldn't you rather show me your estate when we have some time? A month or so, maybe, rather than a rush trip on the way to the capital?" She grins, "I take it having your ship travel with ours would be acceptable?"

Carlos smiles. "The seas are free to all, milady. One could not object to the presence of an escort sheep to ensure the safety of an honored guest returneeng from the League."

Alex grins, brightening, "Oh, that would be nice! Umm..." she hesitates, wondering if it would be too much to ask him if he'd like to ride most of the way on the Mare... then decides a little embarrassedly to not push it, "So... what ship would you be taking?"

Carlos says, "Thees would depend on the urgency, again. Eef the message came through the mages, then I would need to hire a vessel. Eef eet was brought by a sheep of our own Navy, I would of course ride home weeth her."

Alex nods and smiles, "Sounds good to me -- and it'll be excellent news for my brothers too!" She adds thoughtfully, "I wonder if he knew anything about the kidnapping attempt on me... that'd be a rather good reason to give as to why the queen decided to ally with Starfall instead of Costa Yermo." She nibbles her chicken thoughtfully, idly licking her fingers as she does so.

Carlos returns his attention to lunch as well, noting Alex's suggestion for later consideration. I can certainly point this out. I will... yes, I will tell him we were framed. If we were not, the reaction might be interesting...

The conference ends, just barely in time for most of the delegates to make their way back home for the Solstice celebrations... in fact MacGuinness and Bergen, the delegates from St. Avery and Skaergard, probably won't make it. The Count arrives direct from the final session, still in formal clothing -- he had his luggage and the gifts he's taking to Ettore loaded in advance. Arianna is already on board, sharing Carroll's cabin with the guard that Ludmilla has handpicked for the trip... the real 'Lieutenant Rana,' or more properly Lieutenant Karen Shoreham.

Don Carlos was persuaded to come along at the last minute, Alex having told him that the Queen would be going but telling him only 'north' when he asked where. He has been stuffed into Horatio's cabin with the Count, Sten, and Horatio himself.

Jared and Carroll are on deck as the little ship finally starts to move away from the dock. The gruff muskrat sailing master nods to the captain. "We should be there in a week, and have a few days to spare, sir."

Carroll smiles and says, "Good. It will be good to be home, and to have a chance to introduce everyone before Solstice is upon us." His preparations for the trip were made some time ago, and his own gifts for people are stowed in the hold safely, too. He has little to worry about now except the trip, but that's plenty to keep him busy.

Alex smiles, looking into the wind and feeling almost a sense of relief as her fur and whiskers blow gently back. About time they got back out to sea. She's impatient to get going -- she misses the feel of the deck rising under her booted feet and the ruffled hand of the wind through her fur. She wants to keep their promise to the good folk of Ettore too. Were it not for them, the siblings might well not have succeeded in their quest to redeem their family honor. She grins, glancing down on deck, where some of the Ettore marines lean on the railing. She's not surprised they're eager to return home also -- they've certainly earned the right to do so, with full honors.

It is only a little more than an hour before the Mare passes the headlands of Maidstone Harbor and the crew has set the sails for the sea passage. Once the bustle on deck has subsided, Carroll and Alex invite their passenger/guests on deck. Alex paces quietly next to Carroll, hands clasped behind her, keeping an eye on things while he's polite to their passenger/guests.

Horatio busies himself at the charts on the quarterdeck after the sails are set, carefully having two crewmembers check the sea-log every so often, and comparing that to what he knows of the Mare's capabilities, and the weather. It is a little bit before he is satisfied the course line the sloop is sailing is for true, and he looks up as Carroll begins to address the passengers.

Carroll stands on the foredeck, looking out at the ocean and back over the ship, his eyes following the now stabilizing patterns of the ship as it settles into the longer haul of ocean travel. When the passengers come up on deck he smiles and greets them correctly, then says, "Welcome aboard our ship. I hope we'll be able to reach our goal in a week, in plenty of time to prepare for Solstice." Alex grins quietly at Carroll's comment, then glances towards home. We'd better make it in time -- I'll push the Mare myself if I have to!

Carroll makes sure to introduce himself, Alex, Horatio, and Jared, and says, "I am the Captain and Alex is the First Mate. One or the other of us will be on duty at all times. If you have any difficulties, please bring them to one of us." Alex nods with grave politeness as she is introduced. She's far less ebullient here -- more tightly reined in and controlled.

Arianna smiles as she watches the water race by the fast little ship. "This is wonderful... do you know, I've not been on a ship since I became queen?"

Her raccoon guard tsks at her. "You're not supposed to be a queen, remember, Lady Dunbarton? It'll probably leak out, but at least try to remember..."

Carroll smiles and says, "I'm pleased to have you aboard, Lady Dunbarton, and I hope the trip is quick and uneventful. I hope the sea agrees with you." Alex smiles, her gaze drifting out to sea again as she listens to Carroll.

Arianna smiles. "It always did when I was a girl. I've missed this."

Carroll nods, "That's good. I don't know that I've seen much more misery than someone who is sick for an entire voyage." He continues, "I know that I'm looking forward to getting home, though, to reward the people who have done so much for us. It's been an eventful year."

The Count nods in agreement. "That it has." His own seaman's eye follows the lines of the ship and examines the weather and the sea, but he seems satisfied with Carroll's handling of things.

Alex studies the weather thoughtfully... then nods, pleased, and returns her gaze to the deck and the folk there. She studies the Ettore marines, then the queen and the don, to see how they're feeling so far. The Marines and the crew are fine, though eager to get home, and Pablito and the armadillos seem happy enough. Don Carlos looks... not unhappy, but not thrilled. The sea apparently doesn't agree with him quite as much as it does with the Killimarans. With the exception of Don Carlos (and perhaps Diego) looking back longingly toward Sanaray, it seems that every furr on board is looking anxiously ahead, searching for the first sign of Andalin.

Alex smiles quietly to herself as she notices the don's condition. She'll have a word with Diego and Cleo, to see if anything can be discreetly done to help him. She grins again, her eyes dancing with mischief for a second, as she remembers colluding with Diego ahead of time... letting him know roughly what sort of clothing he might want to pack for the don -- were there to be a sudden need for a trip, that is... Diego had been quite understanding. She hopes the don appreciates him... the jerboa's quite unflappable! -as long as there are no unclothed females around, she remembers, with an internal giggle! Then she grins quietly up at Carroll, and murmurs, "Hey, Captain... how's Juanita working out?"

Carroll says, "She is working out just fine. I hope she's enjoying the work more. I'll ask her about it one of these days when I have a minute to breathe." He grins, adding, "I'm quite relieved we're finally on our way."

Alex beams happily up at her brother, "Me too!"

Alex spends some time discussing routes with Horatio... she's curious as to whether he thinks it would be faster to swing west around Andalin Island, or take the more common route up the eastern coast of the island. Horatio considers the route with Alex, and together they decide to travel along the eastern coast of Andalin. He is already planning the route to take into Starfall Bay. Alex nods, making mental notes. She keeps both the bosun and the captain up to date on the navigator's plans. Carroll is pleased the trip goes so quietly. He spends time on the deck, enjoying the sun and talking to the passengers. He nods, approves of Horatio and Alex's plans, and eagerly awaits landing.

The trip is uneventful for the most part. The wind picks up into a light gale for a day, requiring the sailors to reef the sails for a while, but nothing carries away and only Don Carlos gets sick, in spite of the palliative that Cleo and Diego have been slipping into his food.

Alex slides easily back into shipboard routine. She enjoys the nightwatches, with the cool touch of the night wind caressing her fur and tugging at her greatcloak as she paces silently across the dark, relatively silent ship (but for the usual creaks and groans) while it scuds across the ocean, swiftly returning its precious cargo home in time for a promise well-kept, for a people that have well-earned it. She knows she should keep silent, but it's hard in the teeth of the light gale -- the joyous laughter tends to well up inside her and be hard to keep down... although she feels sorry for the poor don.

She enjoys the daily fighter practices with renewed pleasure -- she doesn't know why, but they're just more fun to her when under full sail! She grins as she watches the topfurrs in the sails, remembering how Jacko saved her from making mistakes that first time the Mare crept into the eastern entrance to Starfall Bay. How chagrined she'd been! And the bosun, so warily careful of the greenie first mate... he'd taken such good care of her. She's glad they're taking the time to commemorate their first year together as a crew on the lovely little Mare.

Carroll also works with Alex on the daggers-and-magic drill, and cheerfully chases her through the ship's rigging, quite startling her the first time he catches up to her in the midst of her acrobatic practice and tugging cheerfully on the end of her tail. Alex is, after her first moment of shock, delighted! She can catch him, too, but it takes a little doing.

Alex will courteously make sure the 'Lady Dunbarton' is comfortable during the trip. She also tends to be very easy to find when she's off duty -- she sits in the same out-of-the-way place that she and Dimitri used to sit when just off duty and observing, or cleaning weaponry... and it just happens to have space for the don to sit and chat with her also, if he'd like.

The Saucy Mare ghosts into Starfall Bay through the Western Passage early one evening, and coasts southward through the winter's night that is so much longer than the ones to the south. Don Carlos seems much more inured to the chill than 'Lady Dunbarton,' even though his homeland is even closer to the equator. The chill and the calm waters of the bay seem to have helped his stomach a bit, and he spends a long time chatting quietly with Alex. The mountain spine of Ettore Island looms in the moonlight, and the ship enters the small harbor just as the sun rises on the third day before Solstice.

Alex paces silently on the Mare, enjoying the cool night breeze that wraps her great-cloak about her and chills the tips of her ears and nose.

Although he has not spent a lot of time abovedecks during the trip, Don Carlos emerges on the last night, the smoother waters of the bay having done more to calm his stomach than Cleo's seasickness remedies. He watches Alex for a few minutes, gauging her attention to the ship, before he greets her. "Sir Alexandra. Have you a few moments?"

Alex nods politely to the don as he emerges, then glances thoughtfully along the ship's length. It's calm and quiet, and all seems well. "If you'd like to walk my watch with me, don Carlos, I'd be happy to talk with you?"

Carlos looks relieved. "I have not had much chance to talk to you thees past week. The passage... deed not agree weeth me, I fear. I should thank you for eenviteeng me along, and assure you that I understand why you deed not geeve me the chance to send a message home first."

Alex glances at the don sideways from the shadow of her cloak. Her tone is a little sheepish, "Um... thanks for not being upset, don Carlos. I just... well, I really wanted you to be able to come along, y'know?" She adds with a quiet smile, "You have my sympathies in regards to your time in the Navy, by the way... that must've been truly a difficult duty to fulfill!"

Carlos shrugs. "I was assigned to a larger vessel. Eet was not quite so... lively." Alex covers a small grin. Carlos says, "You seem to know her very well. Perhaps you are not yet as skeelled een the ways of the sea as you are weeth the sword, but you weell be. And tomorrow morneeng we are to arrive at the home of your crew, si?"

Alex grins happily at the don, "I intend to be, yes... and yes, Ettore Island is part of the family estates, and it was thanks to their help and loyalty that we were able to defeat House Pravinchandra. We promised them, a year ago on Solstice, that we'd return with Daddy for the next Solstice -- this one." She studies the quiet, dark sea ahead, smiling, "An awful lot has happened in that year... they deserve our thanks, and for us to keep our promise to them."

Carlos nods. "And one must always keep one's word eef eet ees at all posseeble. You have all done well, I theenk. And your people must theenk you are exceptional, as well. Few enough would take such a reesk for their overlords."

Alex gives the don a slightly startled glance in the darkness, "They wouldn't? Really? Gracious... how sad..." She paces silently, considering that possibility. Well, it makes sense, really... considering all I've heard of Costa Yermo. People don't flee good situations, after all.

The don shrugs. "Some loyalty, yes... but not to reesk becomeeng rebels. They have fameelies too, after all."

Alex nods thoughtfully, "Ah, I understand what you're saying. Well, we brought all the family members of our crew here... it's well-hidden, really."

The coyote grins. "Ah, thees helps. Steell, eet ees an eempresseeve theeng."

Alex smiles at the don, "I honestly don't know. In a way I think they did follow us into, er... rebel-hood. The ones that joined our marines did, at least." She smiles quietly, "How could we not care for them, when they've cared so much for us?"

Carlos nods. "I understand perfectly. But... why does the Capitán breeng the queen here? Ees thees for the same reason you have brought me?"

Alex's smile gets even more quietly introspective as she paces slowly along the deck. After a moment she turns an ear towards the don, and he can hear the smile in her voice, "Perhaps... perhaps. Why do I bring you here?"

The coyote chuckles. "Oh, to see eef I am a good sailor, perhaps?" He turns serious. "For us, eet ees to learn from each other's works. He has seen the queen's works, of course, een Maidstone. Now he shows her that he can do as well, si?"

Alex chuckles quietly, "Maybe it's not showing off... so much as he wants to be sure his people can love her as well?"

Carlos looks at Alex intently in the darkness. Finally, he exhales. "Si. Perhaps eet ees that. Though I theenk eet ees hard not to love a queen who ees young and compassionate for her people."

Alex tilts her head curiously at the don, "Is what I said such an odd idea to you? Don't you worry at all about how your people will regard me -- the new, upstart wife with peculiar foreign ideas?" Her head turns to continue her slow, careful scanning of the ship. Unless he's listening carefully he won't hear her quietly murmured, "I do..."

Carlos chuckles. "I worry about eet sometimes... but her Majesty ees not really foreign here; Starfall and Maidstone are een the same... have the same ideas, si?" If he hears the murmur, he shows no sign.

Alex nods quietly to the don, "Still... it is a chance for her and the people of St. Genevieve to meet... informally and in celebration."

Carlos nods. "Eet ees. A chance for her to relax and not have the pressures of duty for a leettle time, si? I have enjoyed theese myself, even eef I was a leettle seeck."

Alex smiles in quiet sympathy, "I'm very sorry about that, don Carlos. I'm afraid it didn't even occur to me that might happen, since you'd said you were in the Costa Yermo Navy. And... sometimes being able to shed one's worries and cares and just enjoy life for a bit is... good for the soul, I think."

Carlos grins. "I would not have thought of eet myself. I am not used to theese small sheep, and I was getteeng over eet. Not to worry."

Alex nods to the don, and continues back up onto the quarterdeck, where she'll politely invite the don to join her if he wishes. Should he do so, she'll quietly murmur, "So... is there anything else I can do right now for you?"

He looks back out over the quiet water, the waves slapping gently against the hull under the glimmering light of a rising half-moon. "I... no. Not that I should ask yet. Let us veeseet weeth your people here first, and you come to see mine. Then we can theenk about further theengs to do for each other." He turns away from the water toward her, his gaze intense. "Theese theengs can wait..." He turns back to the ocean.

Carroll has already come out of his cabin early, although he hasn't relieved Alex of her duties, so she can bring the ship in. He merely couldn't sleep, through worry or nervousness or excitement isn't clear. He beams nearly as much as the sun at the simple dock and the well-practiced grace of the crew -- his crew! -- bringing the ship in, under his sister's now steady guidance.

Horatio is comfortable watching the Mare's course-line, seeing the swift little sloop draw nearer and nearer to her destination. He looks out onto the sea, sighing softly and a little wistfully -- except, of course, when there is practice on deck and Jessie is there. Almost a year, he thinks, a little edgily. Where has the time gone, Jezebel? I haven't done for you all that I should have, all that I wanted to... there never seemed enough time, and with everything that happened... I'll make it up to you, cherished Aurum spiritas. And this solstice will not only be a celebration of the year that saw my family come back from the brink, but a celebration of having been found by you... and a year that will make my life never the same it was before, to my greatest joy.

Last modified: 2001-Jun-28 17:58:33

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