Roleplay Choosing the Princess Bride to be RP

[Husky_Khan]

"Everyone does seem to be wearing clothes of good quality," Squire Ladd mused to the sharp eyed guard standing beside the City Gates with him. Though wearing the heraldry and armor of King Magnus, the Bosmer soldier to the Squires side looked out of place nonetheless with her bronzed skin and of course, pointed ears. She wasn't even wearing a helmet, her unconventional haircut standing out even more as her head panned over the constantly steady flow of travelers passing through.

"Mmm..." Dollinith, the Bosmer replied with barely a grunt. "Good thing Skyrim has more than one tailor or my job would be harder," she then spat with a bit of disdain, as she looked at the lack of variation in the dress of the commoners. Clothes of good quality certainly. And every one of the lowborn was wearing variations of the same outfit it seemed.

"Almost looks like uniformity. Like an Army," Ladd observed.

The Bosmer grinned, bearing her teeth a bit. "Many of the commoners of Skyrim are like warriors born, that much is certain. Be a fool to attempt to besiege this ceremony," she then said, perhaps a bit approvingly. "Cost a fair bit of coin this Wedding though. Out of the High King's own personal treasury. Our Tomb Raiding Princess never unearthed a suitable dowry as far as I know."

They both stiffened up a bit then as Squire Ladd made another observation. "The gifts that are forthcoming may... make up for it." Both of them set their eyes on an oncoming wagon being pulled by oxen, escorted by a pair of mounted yeomen and a fat peasant in the seat of the wagon beside the driver himself. The smell alone indicated they weren't from Skyrim if the odd bearing of the wagon and their escorts wasn't enough indication.

"Bretonnia. Couronne," Squire Ladd then said, inferring identity from the basic heraldry on the Yeomans' shields and the wagon itself.

"The mighty King of Bretonnia sends only peasants to the wedding of King Magnus' son?" the Bosmer Guard asked in disbelief. The two waved for the Wagon to approach their position. They Wagoner dutifully obeyed and as Dollinith searched under the canvas cover of the wagon, Squire Ladd inquired with the Merchant.

"Welcome to Solitude sons of Bretonnia," Squire Ladd said.

The Fat Merchant smiled. "Thank you. We come bearing gifts from Couronne for Prince Kadlak's Wedding!"

"The Ambassador or-," Squire Ladd started to speak.

The Merchant glanced at the procession of commonfolk passing through the city gates. "Our Lords regret their absence. They unfortunately heard about how the Wedding Ceremony will be open to even the lowborn and thus were unable to attend. As a gesture of the ongoing friendship between our peoples though, they hope that this wagon of excellent vintages from the finest vineyards of Couronne and all of fair Bretonnia."

Squire Ladd glanced over at Dollinith who in turn was also being gawked at by one of the Yeoman. "Arroua nelf?" the Yeoman asked in a slackened tone that she almost seemed offended by.

"We're good," the Bosmer practically hissed back, taking a whiff over some of the corked bottles. "Good vintages indeed!" she added with a nod and another fierce grin as she signaled for the wagon to proceed within. The Merchant nodded with a smile and headed inside as the Yeoman continued to gawk at Dollinith while trotting away, his hand sliding through the dirty mess that was his own hair while apparently gawking at the Bosmer's mohawk.

She continued to ignore the slacked jawed Yeoman as she returned to Squire Ladd's side. "How can Bretons and Bretonnians have almost the same name but seem to be the exact opposite in every way?" Dollinith asked.

"Bretons got a little elf in them right?" Squire Ladd asked.

"Speaking of a little elf..." the Bosmer then said, raising a curious eyebrow at the next arrival.

---

Princess Eldyra glanced over at the young Squire as he trotted after her and as soon as his eyes met hers, he averted his gaze again. Like he did everytime he looked in her direction as they approached the Blue Palace. "You can look Sir Ladd," the Princess of Tiranoc finally said. "What is the point of choosing to wear some finery if not to attract the occasional gaze," she added with a bit of bemusement. She did like the attention to a certain degree after all.

It's why she had the dress sent for.

It took some gall, or at least a bit of effort to wear such a dress while riding a White charger through the streets of Solitude. The seahawk and eagle feathers were interwoven across her longcoat, the sunlight catching every waxed light colored feather and causing an almost luminous glow to shimmer across her body like a feint golden aura. It was catching the sunlight and gave off the impression that she herself was basked in a hue that radiated off of her body in a visible manner. And it was catching many a gaze now as she passed through.

"Why not a dress?" the Squire asked.

"I wouldn't want to take away from the Bride," the Princess said softly as they reached the Palace entrance itself. Here another set of far more discerning guards were present, helping separate the commoners from those with proper invitations. One of the Thanes was taking their horses as they dismounted. Lydia, the Housecarl, briskly approached the two smiling.

"Princess Eldyra rescued you from the scornful gaze of Dollinith at the City Gates did she?" Lydia asked Sir Ladd with a playful jest before turning to Eldyra herself. "Looking lovely My Lady."

Eldyra nodded. "I have to give into my vanity on occasion," the Elven Princess replied as the radiant glow her feathered longcoat gave her did actually dim considerably as soon as she stepped inside.

Lydia gestured towards a small cluster of foreign noble born guests assembling in one of the nearby waiting rooms and announced the two. "Princess Eldyra of Tiranoc and Sir Ladd of Ivalice," Lydia managed to say with as much formality as she could muster, before gesturing they could join the other nobles.

As palace maids and servants were serving the nobles light refreshments, Princess Eldyra and Sir Ladd waded into the group, the Elven Princess relieved the Squire was here and able to introduce her to the assorted Human nobles that came into attendance. First and foremost was Princess Margaery Tyrell and her brother Sir Loras Tyrell who managed to travel here from Westeros. They were accompanied by only a Handmaiden and a Squire. Eldyra was struck by the formers grace and the latters bearing. Both seemed exceptional.

Then there was the opposite end of the spectrum. Another suitor had arrived just in time as well. Princess Merida of Dun Broch and she was accompanied by her Mother, both of them wearing fine blue dresses though Merida's seemed a bit less constraining. And no servant was even accompanying them. Having heard of Merida from the Prince mostly, Eldyra could readily see how the flame haired Clan Princess made such an impression on Kaldak.

Then there were others. Regretfully Queen Anna couldn't attend but sent her Steward Kai in her place. Then there were dignitaries from the nearby Kingdoms of Kislev and Lordaeron. And fellow provinces of the Empire like Hammerfell, Cormyr and the Reikland. The Emperor of course wasn't in attendance but even he sent a delegation to one of the most influential Courts of the Empire. Eldyra was actually taken aback a bit as she realized she was taking some eyes off of everyone. Meeting a noble of Ulthaun was rare for even Human nobles and soon she found her own ego being fueled as people were drawn to talking to her. She didn't want to indulge in her newfound popularity but it was so dramatically different from her treatment in the Elven courts that soon, she realized she had to guard herself against falling for the attention too much.

---

The soon to be Princess Aubrey gazed out the window at the main chamber and could see the Housecarls arranging the gifts. More treasures just willingly falling into her lap and sighed wispfully. There was some sort of meaning here... or an irony. Getting hitched to a Princess on the face of it seemed so much easier then risking ones life delving into dungeons and pillaging ancient tombs after all. And yet the treasures being laid out before her... just as lucrative... but with just as many strings attached perhaps.

The servants were running out of places to arrange the bottles of wine sent from the absent guests of Bretonnia. It looked like an entire cellar had been sent. No expense spared except when it came to attending the ceremony itself. The Tyrells of the Reach sent a beautiful arrangement of flowers and garlands, enough to adorn dozens of guests when the time was right. She couldn't identify most of the things being brought in though. Arms and armor, ceremonial most likely. Pieces of art, jewels and baubles. All future family heirlooms perhaps. And more then a few interesting bits of paperwork. Deeds and the like.

"It is bad luck to look upon your gifts prior to the wedding My Lady," one of her personal servants, her own handmaidens then said as Aubrey shook her head, still grappling with this all. "It's okay to be nervous My Lady," the handmaiden then said. "Did you want to rehearse the vows?"

Aubrey shook her head. A few months ago women like the handmaidens waiting on her wouldn't be given a second glance by Aubrey except perhaps as potential targets or vulnerabilities for a planned pilfering. Their lives and occupations seemed so shallow and stuffy compared to her own life. But now... she was being as gracious and courteous as possible, impressing herself with her patience and poise as the Maids lightly coaxed her into more and more formalities to be schooled in.

Or reintroduced to.

As one of the maids continued to twist her long golden hair into a long braid just as she asked, another was busy pressing her wedding dress free of wrinkles as Aubrey took a polite step away from the window. "As you wish," Aubrey then said as she raised her arms to her side to be fitted with a corset. "Not too tight..." Aubrey then said to the Maid fitting her, the tone in her voice so grave that the Servant paused, looking up at the Bride to be with a bit of uncertainty.

Aubrey just smiled and the Servant, her movements more tentative than before, continued her fitting. She could be a Lady. But she was still Lady Aubrey...

 

[KilroywasNOTHere]

Magnus was still running around making sure things remained organized. He himself was surprised about the sheer number of gifts that were spewing forth and there will still some major guests that had yet to arrive. His thoughts were interrupted when Lydia came rushing in.

"My Lord our scouts report ships from the Jade Empire."

Magnus smiled. "Finally, she's here." he thought.

Spoiler: The Fleet of Chinese Treasure Ships

Magnus watched as the ships came. He couldn't help but note how insanely large as they entered Solitude's port. each one had to have measured at least 330 ft in length the lead one was near 500 ft. As the ships docked the drawbridge extended forth
The emperor seemingly descended from ship behind him was Fa Mulan and her closest allies Yao, Ling, and Chien Po.

both the emperor and Magnus had a look of stoicism about them as they stared at each other. Mulan wanted to say something that might cut this seemingly thick tension but dared not possibly speak on the emperor. Finally, Magnus spoke.

"Shi Huang..."

"Dragonborn..."

The two continued to look at each other before smiles erupted on both of their faces followed by laughter.

"It's good to see you old friend," Mangus spoke.

"Haha it's good to see you too."

Mulan and her trio breathed a sigh of relief only to find themselves slack-jawed as the Dragonborn embraced the Emperor, an odd sight given that touching the emperor without permission was considered a very inappropriate taboo, the emperor however seemed perfectly ok with the act and even embraced the dragonborn in kind.

"is he allowed to do that?" Yao whispered to his companions.

"It is said that the Dragonborn is one of the Sons of The Great Dragon and his history actually ties close with the emperor and the emperor views him as an equal....in short, yes he is allowed to do that."

The two rulers happily chatted with each other. before Magnus finally said.

"I did not expect you would come personally I just assumed you would have Mulan come in your stead."

"It would be a great dishonor of me to miss the wedding of a Dragon Bride....or fail to bring gifts worthy of her new title." Magnus's jaw dropped in sheer awe . Chests upon chest filled to the brim of Gold, Silver, and Copper coins as well as jewels and small sculptors made of jade , cabinets of fine spices, wardrobes of finely made silk dresses caskets, and storage chest of fine foods and drinks of fine drink, an armory's worth of finely crafted arms and armor. The Emperor even gifted Aubrey with a small army of servants all of the various skills that would answer her Becken call.

"All of this for my kingdom?" Magnus asked in disbelief.

"It is my duty as a servent of the great Dragon to give such alms. Consider it my tribute."

"I'm not certain there would be enough room in the Blue Palace."

"in that case, you may have these ships. It is but a small portion of my fleet. I give them freely to the Son of The Great Dragon."

Magnus was not one to be awestruck or be moved to tears unless he heard beautiful music. This was one of those cases where music was not required.

"I don't know what to say. Thank you. Is there anything I can do to repay you for this gift?"

"I require nothing. "The emperor cracked a grin. "But...I would be glad if you considered my offer and in us forming an alliance, so you would no longer be bound to that... other empires."

Magnus smiled. "That would be something I would need my family's input on as well as that of my new royal tutor."

"Well in that case I would very much like to see The Dragon Bride for myself. I would like to know for myself if my gifts are...of her liking."

In truth, Magnus wanted to see Aubrey's reaction himself. Simply presenting her with a fraction of the gifts would not do justice. He then looked at two of his couriers.

"Rakus, Helga ...I need you to Fetch Princess Aubrey and my son and tell them to come to the docks. Tell her The emperor of China himself brings a great tribute and he wants to meet them personally to make sure the tribute is to their satisfaction. If any of the handmaidens protest about bad luck or something tell them that...this is a tribute that needs to be seen to be believed the king Commands, it."

Magnus looked to the emperor's fleet...or rather Aubrey's and Kodlak's new fleet. Needless to say he'd be able to keep his promise to Aubrey about wanting for nothing. However, he couldn't help but chuckle and shake his head. He wasn't sure if this was opulence or decadence.

 

[Husky_Khan]

"How is that My Lady?" Erdi, Aubrey's personal handmaiden then asked, tying off the last of the straps for Aubrey's corset that caused the slender womans torso to appear even more streamlined while pushing up her bosom for the undoubtedly low cut dress she would be wearing.

Aubrey frowned. "I'm not a fan... sorry... It's cramping me," Aubrey then said. "I can breathe but what if I eat a bite of food? There's going to be wine and mead..."

"My Lady, you are not going to drink. You are with child!" Erdi gasped in shock.

"Yes. I'll have to fill my mouth with something if I can't have a liquid lunch," Aubrey then replied, delighted at her overreaction whilst already straining against the corset as Erdi untied it. "Perhaps we can go with the chemise first, then a leather bodice over it? It should have a similar effect, and allow you to partake of the fine repast being prepared."

Aubrey's eyes lit up. "A bodice you say?" she said, already intrigued.

"My Lady, you will be wearing your wedding gown over it and the Bliaut over that until the ceremony begins," Erdi explained as Aubrey tried to process all of these words. The Wedding Gown was actually quite nice... and simple in its elegance. Soft and silken, all White with a simple flowery embellishment sewn in patterns across the thin but opaque garment. All manners of opulence had been proposed but she's save that for her overgarment.

The bliaut in question was made of very fine wool, combed and treated to the point it was as soft as wool fluff itself on the inside lining. The dyes were red and white patterned, with black accents, the banner of Solitude, with the wolfs head emblazoned across its backside and on each breast. The edges of the overgarment were trimmed with black fur on the edges including the sleeves and collar and despite its size, it felt far lighter than it looked. And most importantly, Aubrey seemed to find it bearable.

Erdi have just finished fastening the fine leather bodice around Aubrey's torso as the Bride to be nodded appreciatively. She had worn similar garments before and from the display of her loudly inhaling and exhaling, Erdi knew she was not so subtly showing how pleased she was. "How is that My Lady?"

"Much bet-," Aubrey started to say before turning to the door, sensing someone was coming.

A few moments later those doors did open up as she recognized Helga, one of the Royal servants, address her after a bow. "The King requests your presence at the Docks. Prince Kadlak is to be there as well," Helga practically stammered, her face looking bright and exasperated, piquing Aubrey's curiosity. "Is this a secret?"

"No but it should be a surprise. Believe me My Lady," Helga replied with another bow.

"It's bad luck to see your Betrothed before the vows My Lady," Erdi then offered up, her advice running contrary to a King's Request. Aubrey smirked, pleased her Handmaiden was so bold as to offer her opinion even in a situation like this. Aubrey turned to her Handmaiden and saw Erdi's face pale slightly.

"No worries Erdi. Prince Kadlak and I make our own luck," Aubrey then said with a smile before glancing at the gown and the bliaut. "Prepare the Overgarment for me. We can don the gown later on," Aubrey then said. "I got a sense this might be something good. If I swoon I wouldn't want to mar my wedding gown."

"I'll catch you before you fall My Lady," Erdi replied, grabbing the Bliaut and then sliding the large sleeved overgarment over her one arm at a time as it slid over her slender frame, fitting perfectly, the bottom edge of black fur trim waving just bare centimeters above the floor itself.

Aubrey smiled and then nodded for Erdi to accompany her. "Come. You always talk of adventure, let's see what we'll encounter," the Bride then said. Before her, a pair of Housecarls flanked either side of her, as Helga led the quartet out of the palace down a side passage to avoid the crowds. There were still plenty of witnesses murmuring as to what was happening as they saw her pass but she paid them no mind, curious as to why the King would summon them to the Docks of all places. Clearly it had to be some far off dignitary or visitor she surmised.

Not that it narrowed down the list. Between the two of them they had encountered a great many foreigners with maritime preferences. Though Aubrey struck the Pirate Queen of Sartosa off of the list. She highly doubted she'd be attending, and if she had arrived, she doubted the King would announce her presence by sending Helga with a cryptic request.

---

"You literally are a Knight in Shining Armor," Dismas said with a laugh. Prince Kadlak couldn't help but shake his head and wished he had his helm on, so he could slap his visor down and hide from the reformed Highwayman's mocking. "If only Reynauld could see you now. He'd be green with envy."

Kadlak smiled, though it was faltering a bit as they both recalled the veteran Paladin that had shared in many of their adventures. "I..." he struggled to say. Dismas winced a bit, wishing suddenly he didn't mention his name.

"He'd be happy for you. He was a Crusader first, not a husband," Dismas then said flatly.

"Think he'd show up here?" Prince Kadlak asked.

Dismas just laughed and shook his head in doubt. "I... Well..." Dismas then reasoned with a shrug. "I'm surprised I showed up here," he said, rubbing the palms of his scarred and burnt hands against the fine fur trimmed leather longcoat he was wearing.

"You look well friend," Kadlak then said.

"I'm wealthy enough from our adventures I can focus on contrition instead of my condition," Dismas then said glancing down at his coat. "I actually bought this you know," he then said. "Overpaid even. I might be the one in the carriage someday."

"Well I am glad you are here, this Wedding Ceremony is good practice for when you start rubbing elbows at the court," Kadlak then joked as Dismas chuckled and then rolled his eyes before shaking his head. "Thanks for the invitation by the way. I made sure to do my best to find the others, but they've scattered. Barristan is on campaign in some Godforsaken land. Margaret is in Hochland. She's an instructor there if you can believe it. I'm sure she sent her regards."

"And I heard from Baldwin," Kadlak replied.

"Oh what did he send you?" Dismas asked.

"His last will and testament," Kadlak replied matter-of-factly. "I am to be the Executor of his Estate when he passes."

Dismas blinked, digesting that Kadlak was actually serious. "Hard to top that as a gift," Dismas then said before patting his hips instinctively before realizing nothing was there. It was almost a habit now.

"Where are your pistols?" Prince Kadlak then asked, noticing the habitual gesture already but finally deciding to point it out.

"They were secured at the Gates. No bows, crossbows, hand crossbows, slings, pistols, muskets, arbalests or bolt throwers I imagine," Dismas then said. "I actually came here with Millicent but I had to leave the poor lass at the Gates, she still won't part from her Arbalest."

Kadlak's eyes widened a bit. "Still...?"

Dismas nodded slowly when they both turned, noticing one of the King's Courtiers approach.

---

The two Housecarls didn't seem pleased at having the two armed strangers so close to the Prince, but respected him enough to follow the three of them as they headed out of a side exit to the palace, one that provided a more direct route to Solitude's protected harbor. The Prince himself couldn't think of two better guardians personally besides Millicent and Dismas, at least at thirty paces or more. Though Dismas still didn't have his pistols back. Still it was fortunate that he got one of the servants to fetch Millicent from wherever she was moping nearby.

Not that she was a hard person to find. Dark skinned Lady with dreadlocks, a massive Arbalest, adorned with various packs and clad in a munition smithed breastplate.

The Prince glanced at Millicent. She immediately sensed his eyes on her and turned to face him. Her bright brown eyes stared back at him. So full of life yet her face looked almost expressionless until she put a smile on it. "I'm happy for you Kadlak," the skilled Crossbow woman said, trying to sound as sincere as she actually was. "Prince Kadlak," she then corrected herself.

Kadlak smiled back at her and nodded. "Thank you."

"I think you already thanked him," Dismas commented amusingly, as Millicent shrunk in her shoulders a bit, realizing she had. "I'm just teasing you Lass," he then added. The apology made her shirk even more.

"There's a group of High Elves from Tiranoc here Millicent. They don't like talking to Humans either," the Prince then said. "But they like shooting bows. Maybe I can introduce you," the Prince then offered.

"Oh...." Millicent said, her dark lips parting into another gleaming smile. "I mean... I'd be far too embarrassed."

"Remember when you shouted Bullseye when you fired an arrow down that Siren's throat midscream?" Dismas countered sharply. As Millicent grinned, unable to come up with a counter, or thinking she needed one, they emerged from a doorway onto a ramp overlooking the bay, the salty spray of the Northern Sea washing over their faces and briefly shrouding their vision as they took a few steps onto the harbor before realizing what they were looking down upon.

Prince Kadlak moved his hand to his back, before realizing there was no sword there. He had a smaller one in a scabbard on his hip, not a large one strapped across his back. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Dismas doing the same for his nonexistent pistols before both of them realized the bay wasn't filled with an invasion fleet.

It took another moment for him to realize it was a Treasure Fleet.

A glance down at the main dock made him realize the Treasure Fleet came from China.

"Well... Baldwin leaving you in his will apparently is going to be eclipsed today," Dismas then said, noticing literal casks and cases of just stuff being offloaded. "If you need any help offloading any of those goods my Prince," Dismas then said.

"Excuse me. That job is taken Sir Dismas," came a voice behind them as they all turned, recognizing Aubrey's voice as they came up from the side, having taken a similar route to the harbor.

She approached Dismas for a handshake, neither of them daring hug each other before Millicent coyly stepped forward and the two warrior women quickly embraced, with Aubrey kissing Millicent on both cheeks just to see her blush as they parted. "I'm so glad you two are here..." Aubrey then said.

"Oh?" Millicent asked, a half smile curling up her face a moment later.

"Yeah. I was literally standing just over there staring at the treasure fleet for five minutes straight. My Handmaiden Erdi almost had to fetch my snuff box," Lady Aubrey then said, gesturing towards the well dressed servant beside her.

"Tis true," Erdi then chimed in agreement softly as she tried to keep a straight face while giving Kadlak and Aubrey's former adventuring companions a measuring glance. Certainly an eclectic bunch, much like the Prince's rumored suitors.

"I like your Cloak. It's very pretty," Millicent then said in compliment of Aubrey.

"Oh... thank you," Aubrey replied, the Arbalests timing awkward as always as she smiled at her, before turning to her husband and extending a hand. "Come husband, walk with me," she then said and as he took her hand, she rushed him forward a few quick steps and then leaned in close to him and turned her head, to whisper into his ear while also making sure their entourage was out of earshot.

"I feel sick Kadlak," she said, squeezing his hand tightly. "This is too much," she then said, her chest heaving a bit, though she was thankful she wasn't in the corset anymore. The leather bodice allowed her to breath a lot more. Or hyperventilate. "This is too much. What are we going to do with this?"

Kadlak exhaled slowly. "It's... Skyrim is a big Kingdom. This is unexpected but welcome," Kadlak replied.

"I don't know how to handle this. Do I just say... thank you thank you thank you a million times over?" Aubrey replied. "It feels like a debt... I'm feeling sick," Aubrey replied, her voice dry.

"Millicent a Surgeon. She could give you something," Kadlak replied, cracking jokes just so he could deal with the impact of what he was witnessing. It certainly was a lot. But he could take it in stride, growing up as the firstborn in a King's court. Aubrey though, he glanced over and could see she was looking legitimately pale. "Listen. You haven't met Fa Mulan yet. I'm going to introduce you to her and I'm sure the two of you will hit it off."

"If I don't vomit on her," Aubrey replied.

"Actually she'd be the best one to vomit on. She could relate," Kadlak said before leaning in and kissing her on the top of her head as they approached... his Father... and the actual Dragon Emperor Shi Huang himself. Thankfully beside them was Fa Mulan and the entourage accompanying her was likely her battle brothers she often spoke of while she was in the Army. "Jut a few words with them and I'll usher you off okay. Just say thank you. Or break down crying in gratitude. Both are acceptable."

"I'm not going to cry..." Aubrey replied, recomposing herself through sheer force of will as they approached the Dragon Sovereigns.

 

[KilroywasNOTHere]

The two Housecarls didn't seem pleased at having the two armed strangers so close to the Prince, but respected him enough to follow the three of them as they headed out of a side exit to the palace, one that provided a more direct route to Solitude's protected harbor. The Prince himself couldn't think of two better guardians personally besides Millicent and Dismas, at least at thirty paces or more. Though Dismas still didn't have his pistols back. Still it was fortunate that he got one of the servants to fetch Millicent from wherever she was moping nearby.

Not that she was a hard person to find. Dark skinned Lady with dreadlocks, a massive Arbalest, adorned with various packs and clad in a munition smithed breastplate.

The Prince glanced at Millicent. She immediately sensed his eyes on her and turned to face him. Her bright brown eyes stared back at him. So full of life yet her face looked almost expressionless until she put a smile on it. "I'm happy for you Kadlak," the skilled Crossbow woman said, trying to sound as sincere as she actually was. "Prince Kadlak," she then corrected herself.

Kadlak smiled back at her and nodded. "Thank you."

"I think you already thanked him," Dismas commented amusingly, as Millicent shrunk in her shoulders a bit, realizing she had. "I'm just teasing you Lass," he then added. The apology made her shirk even more.

"There's a group of High Elves from Tiranoc here Millicent. They don't like talking to Humans either," the Prince then said. "But they like shooting bows. Maybe I can introduce you," the Prince then offered.

"Oh...." Millicent said, her dark lips parting into another gleaming smile. "I mean... I'd be far too embarrassed."

"Remember when you shouted Bullseye when you fired an arrow down that Siren's throat midscream?" Dismas countered sharply. As Millicent grinned, unable to come up with a counter, or thinking she needed one, they emerged from a doorway onto a ramp overlooking the bay, the salty spray of the Northern Sea washing over their faces and briefly shrouding their vision as they took a few steps onto the harbor before realizing what they were looking down upon.

Prince Kadlak moved his hand to his back, before realizing there was no sword there. He had a smaller one in a scabbard on his hip, not a large one strapped across his back. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Dismas doing the same for his nonexistent pistols before both of them realized the bay wasn't filled with an invasion fleet.

It took another moment for him to realize it was a Treasure Fleet.

A glance down at the main dock made him realize the Treasure Fleet came from China.

"Well... Baldwin leaving you in his will apparently is going to be eclipsed today," Dismas then said, noticing literal casks and cases of just stuff being offloaded. "If you need any help offloading any of those goods my Prince," Dismas then said.

"Excuse me. That job is taken Sir Dismas," came a voice behind them as they all turned, recognizing Aubrey's voice as they came up from the side, having taken a similar route to the harbor.

She approached Dismas for a handshake, neither of them daring hug each other before Millicent coyly stepped forward and the two warrior women quickly embraced, with Aubrey kissing Millicent on both cheeks just to see her blush as they parted. "I'm so glad you two are here..." Aubrey then said.

"Oh?" Millicent asked, a half smile curling up her face a moment later.

"Yeah. I was literally standing just over there staring at the treasure fleet for five minutes straight. My Handmaiden Erdi almost had to fetch my snuff box," Lady Aubrey then said, gesturing towards the well dressed servant beside her.

"Tis true," Erdi then chimed in agreement softly as she tried to keep a straight face while giving Kadlak and Aubrey's former adventuring companions a measuring glance. Certainly an eclectic bunch, much like the Prince's rumored suitors.

"I like your Cloak. It's very pretty," Millicent then said in compliment of Aubrey.

"Oh... thank you," Aubrey replied, the Arbalests timing awkward as always as she smiled at her, before turning to her husband and extending a hand. "Come husband, walk with me," she then said and as he took her hand, she rushed him forward a few quick steps and then leaned in close to him and turned her head, to whisper into his ear while also making sure their entourage was out of earshot.

"I feel sick Kadlak," she said, squeezing his hand tightly. "This is too much," she then said, her chest heaving a bit, though she was thankful she wasn't in the corset anymore. The leather bodice allowed her to breath a lot more. Or hyperventilate. "This is too much. What are we going to do with this?"

Kadlak exhaled slowly. "It's... Skyrim is a big Kingdom. This is unexpected but welcome," Kadlak replied.

"I don't know how to handle this. Do I just say... thank you thank you thank you a million times over?" Aubrey replied. "It feels like a debt... I'm feeling sick," Aubrey replied, her voice dry.

"Millicent a Surgeon. She could give you something," Kadlak replied, cracking jokes just so he could deal with the impact of what he was witnessing. It certainly was a lot. But he could take it in stride, growing up as the firstborn in a King's court. Aubrey though, he glanced over and could see she was looking legitimately pale. "Listen. You haven't met Fa Mulan yet. I'm going to introduce you to her and I'm sure the two of you will hit it off."

"If I don't vomit on her," Aubrey replied.

"Actually she'd be the best one to vomit on. She could relate," Kadlak said before leaning in and kissing her on the top of her head as they approached... his Father... and the actual Dragon Emperor Shi Huang himself. Thankfully beside them was Fa Mulan and the entourage accompanying her was likely her battle brothers she often spoke of while she was in the Army. "Jut a few words with them and I'll usher you off okay. Just say thank you. Or break down crying in gratitude. Both are acceptable."

"I'm not going to cry..." Aubrey replied, recomposing herself through sheer force of will as they approached the Dragon Sovereigns.

Shi Huang, Fa Mulan, and her three battle-brothers bowed with respect. "Greetings Dragon-Prince & Dragon-Bride I am Shi Huang of China, I'm sure you know of Fa Mulan. I hope my tribute is to your satisfaction. I also bring you 300 Eunuchs all of which are masters in a variety of task."

Fa Mulan spoke. "It's nice to finally get to see you in person Kadlak."

 

[King Arts]

Looking a bit forlorn, the Prince wasn't sure how to deal with the issue. Surely she wasn't the first to be impregnated out of wedlock by a Noble. Though he also hoped she and their potential offspring would be taken care of. "It would still be a while for me to have another child. The betrothal and marriage to Princess Merida, if she agrees, would still take sometime. By then arrangements can be made for Lady Aubrey and what would be best for her and the child?" the Prince asked.

"The child is of noble lineage. The line would have to renounce any claim of legitimacy to the Throne even if they could retain the status of nobility," the Chamberlain then stated sagely. "It is a common enough practice when dealing with confirmed bastards," he added with a nod.

OOC: I want to apologize for not responding so long. I just had hectic things happen in real life.
IC: "That seems to be the best route, my son is the mother willing to renounce on behalf of the child any claims to the throne?"
I turn to the chamberlain
"However there is the question, what if my son does die before he has a child with Princess Merida, would it be legal to void the prior renunciation? After all I do consider making sure that someone of my blood sit on the throne a priority."

The Chamberlain nodded in agreement. "The Fire Nation is powerful militarily. So much so they could be a threat to the Empire in totality potentially. So yes, I imagine attempting to secure an alliance through marriage would have rippling effects on our relations with the other Electors. And the Fire Nation is a considerable distance away. Certainly not insurmountable, but our longtime Imperial allies and neighbors dominate the local seas... and our extensive land borders if trouble was ever to brew. What would be most concerning would be that we are tied to them to the point they could almost dictate our foreign policy simply through hostile belligerency," the Chamberlain reasoned, working off of what his King had already said and finding himself in agreement with him.

I nod my head
"It is good that everyone is in agreement on the risks that aligned with the fire nation poses. Still let us turn to other thoughts. The wedding, besides the other electors of our empire, and his Imperial Majesty himself. Who else should we invite to my son's wedding. I admit I am not the greatest at social graces, I find myself more at home leading an army and purging those despicable undead vampires. So I am unsure if it would be offensive to offer an invitation to the others we considered, some would not be able to come because of vast distances, but some of them our neighbors and princess Eldyria is a guest staying with us right here.

"Me too Father," the Prince then said before a flash of somberness crossed his face. "I would like word to be sent to Dun Broch as soon as possible but... I also wish to resolve the issue with Lady Aubrey as well. But I should have something ready to say to her before I see her again and inform her of... our choice," he added with a bit of hesitation, clearly not looking forward to that unenviable task.

"She seems resilient," the Chamberlain said with a bit of nod. "I am sure she will recognize the good fortune that already fell into her... lap," he then added, unsure of a more delicate word to use. "Take care of her needs and excise the issue of the offsprings issue as quickly as possible and we can avoid entanglements later due to lack of prudence." The Chamberlain then paused, knowing both the King and Prince apparently wanted the latter to be involved in the raising of the potential bastard.

"Spending some time with Aubrey's issue maybe unavoidable and certainly a positive influence on them. And perhaps when they are of age, they could serve the Household. And depending on the title granted, they could become an asset in time for the Kingdom as long as they remain well away from the line of succession," the Chamberlain further explained, his rationality clearly not improving the Prince's mood even as tht Chamberlain tried to at least speak in a respectful tone, softening his voice as he offered his opinion of the issue.

"It seems like the path forward is set. Now I know son you are going to have to do a difficult thing, so you don't have to go right this minute take a little bit of time to steel yourself, but also remember that putting this off longer than necessary will not help you and will just make it more difficult and torment you more. The faster you can go through with this the better you will feel after."

 

[Husky_Khan]

Shi Huang, Fa Mulan, and her three battle-brothers bowed with respect. "Greetings Dragon-Prince & Dragon-Bride I am Shi Huang of China, I'm sure you know of Fa Mulan. I hope my tribute is to your satisfaction. I also bring you 300 Eunuchs all of which are masters in a variety of task."

Fa Mulan spoke. "It's nice to finally get to see you in person Kadlak."

"Lord Emperor," Prince Kadlak then said, falling to his knees, with Audrey following a moment later.

"Dragon Emperor," Chi-Fu, the Emperors Consul then corrected, as he watched the betrothed couple already kneeling before teh Emperor and feeling satisfied.

"No need to prostrate yourselves, young Dragon," the Emperor then said, clearly not wanting the two of them to actually kowtow before him right on the docks, especially since he was the one being hosted.

Fa Mulan then spoke up a moment later, further rescuing the duo as they rose from their knees. "Princess Mulan," Kadlak then said, his eyes lighting up as he turned to Audrey, who simply smiled at him and turned to face Emperor Shi Huang himself. By now the Housecarls escorted the young couple had injected themselves between the assembled royals and the other onlookers, including the young couples eccentric adventuring companions as soon MIllicent and Dismas found themselves on the periphery of the meeting alongside Yao, Ling and Chien Po.

"Words do not do justice to your presence Prince Kadlak," Fa Mulan then said, lightly resting her hands on the Prince's as they shook before the young Prince leaned forward, kissing the top of her hand before taking a step back beside his bride.

"Thank you," Prince Kadlak then said, positively glowing before gently drawing Audrey from the presence of the two Dragon Sovereigns to introduce her to Fa Mulan. "This is my Bride to be, Lady Audrey."

"Pleased to meet you Princess," Audrey said, still looking a little pale, even a bit distraught. Fa Mulan seemed to pick up on it as they shook hands briefly and bowed their heads to each other.

"Prince Kadlak told me a great deal about you actually, and your mutual adventures," Fa Mulan then explained before looking past the two of them and noticing Millicent and Dismas standing awkwardly nearby. "And those two must be some of your other companions. From the Estates Dungeon he speaks so much of?"

Nearby, Lydia barked at the Housecarls and guards to open up, letting the two strangers into the group as Kadlak nodded towards the Yao, Ling and Chien Po. "And that must be the Gang of Three that helped you save China," Kadlak then said, as a moment later Yao pushed his way past a mortified Chi-Fu and injected himself into the discussion amongst the group, with plenty of firm handshakes and slaps on the shoulder and back while his two slightly more shy companions introduced themselves soonafter.

It was while Ling was making Millicent laugh awkwardly as he stuck a pair of chopsticks up his nose and began speaking and Yao and Dismas were trading barbs that Emperor Si Huang spoke up.

"And does the Dragon Bride feel satisfied with my tribute?" the Emperor asked Lady Audrey directly, knowing that she seemed a bit overwhelmed by everything and thus apparently desiring to confront it head on in order to put her at ease.

Audrey, who had danced around the Emperor up to this point, stammered momentarily as she felt more then a few eyes on her before finally finding the words to say. "Thank you," Audrey started to say, before glancing at a glowering Chi-Fu, "Dragon Emperor. But I don't know how I could ever find use for three hundred eunuchs."

"What's a Eunuch?" Millicent then asked, clearly out of order. Ling leaned over, whispering the answer into the Crossbow-womans ear as she dropped her jaw a moment later. "Truly?" she said in a hushed tone. One of her hands moved to instinctively squeeze a teddy bear dangling from her belt.

"Skyrim is one of the great Northern Kingdoms of the Empire, if not thee greatest," Prince Kadlak then stated. "Our Royal Court will have to match its rising grandeur with a Sovereign Household that can match it."

Nearby several of the Thanes and Housecarls were nodding, as even Audrey seemed impressed by his very political response, both dignified and evasive as well as ambitious and praising his homeland. As Mulan nodded and smiled, Yao couldn't help but mutter something else aloud.

"Wow, he'd of been a perfect Husband for Fa Mulan," the bearded Warrior mused before being lightly rapped upon the head by Chien Po for his improper statement.

"Indeed. Do not think of this as excess. These are not baubles to be gifted upon anyone, but privileges only accorded to those who have proven their worth and can bear the responsibility. Fa Mulan has spoken highly of you Dragon Prince and I know even the pettiest bauble will not go to waste if he or his Dragon Bride have anything to say about it."

"My Emperor, the Dragon Bride, with all due respect, previously held an occupation of low moral-," Chi-Fu felt compelled to interject when the Emperor simply raised a hand to silence him.

"I think I have enough shiny things to last several lifetimes. Thank you Dragon Emperor Shi Huang," Lady Audrey then said with another bow

 

[KilroywasNOTHere]

"Lord Emperor," Prince Kadlak then said, falling to his knees, with Audrey following a moment later.

"Dragon Emperor," Chi-Fu, the Emperors Consul then corrected, as he watched the betrothed couple already kneeling before teh Emperor and feeling satisfied.

"No need to prostrate yourselves, young Dragon," the Emperor then said, clearly not wanting the two of them to actually kowtow before him right on the docks, especially since he was the one being hosted.

Fa Mulan then spoke up a moment later, further rescuing the duo as they rose from their knees. "Princess Mulan," Kadlak then said, his eyes lighting up as he turned to Audrey, who simply smiled at him and turned to face Emperor Shi Huang himself. By now the Housecarls escorted the young couple had injected themselves between the assembled royals and the other onlookers, including the young couples eccentric adventuring companions as soon MIllicent and Dismas found themselves on the periphery of the meeting alongside Yao, Ling and Chien Po.

"Words do not do justice to your presence Prince Kadlak," Fa Mulan then said, lightly resting her hands on the Prince's as they shook before the young Prince leaned forward, kissing the top of her hand before taking a step back beside his bride.

"Thank you," Prince Kadlak then said, positively glowing before gently drawing Audrey from the presence of the two Dragon Sovereigns to introduce her to Fa Mulan. "This is my Bride to be, Lady Audrey."

"Pleased to meet you Princess," Audrey said, still looking a little pale, even a bit distraught. Fa Mulan seemed to pick up on it as they shook hands briefly and bowed their heads to each other.

"Prince Kadlak told me a great deal about you actually, and your mutual adventures," Fa Mulan then explained before looking past the two of them and noticing Millicent and Dismas standing awkwardly nearby. "And those two must be some of your other companions. From the Estates Dungeon he speaks so much of?"

Nearby, Lydia barked at the Housecarls and guards to open up, letting the two strangers into the group as Kadlak nodded towards the Yao, Ling and Chien Po. "And that must be the Gang of Three that helped you save China," Kadlak then said, as a moment later Yao pushed his way past a mortified Chi-Fu and injected himself into the discussion amongst the group, with plenty of firm handshakes and slaps on the shoulder and back while his two slightly more shy companions introduced themselves soonafter.

It was while Ling was making Millicent laugh awkwardly as he stuck a pair of chopsticks up his nose and began speaking and Yao and Dismas were trading barbs that Emperor Si Huang spoke up.

"And does the Dragon Bride feel satisfied with my tribute?" the Emperor asked Lady Audrey directly, knowing that she seemed a bit overwhelmed by everything and thus apparently desiring to confront it head on in order to put her at ease.

Audrey, who had danced around the Emperor up to this point, stammered momentarily as she felt more then a few eyes on her before finally finding the words to say. "Thank you," Audrey started to say, before glancing at a glowering Chi-Fu, "Dragon Emperor. But I don't know how I could ever find use for three hundred eunuchs."

"What's a Eunuch?" Millicent then asked, clearly out of order. Ling leaned over, whispering the answer into the Crossbow-womans ear as she dropped her jaw a moment later. "Truly?" she said in a hushed tone. One of her hands moved to instinctively squeeze a teddy bear dangling from her belt.

"Skyrim is one of the great Northern Kingdoms of the Empire, if not thee greatest," Prince Kadlak then stated. "Our Royal Court will have to match its rising grandeur with a Sovereign Household that can match it."

Nearby several of the Thanes and Housecarls were nodding, as even Audrey seemed impressed by his very political response, both dignified and evasive as well as ambitious and praising his homeland. As Mulan nodded and smiled, Yao couldn't help but mutter something else aloud.

"Wow, he'd of been a perfect Husband for Fa Mulan," the bearded Warrior mused before being lightly rapped upon the head by Chien Po for his improper statement.

"Indeed. Do not think of this as excess. These are not baubles to be gifted upon anyone, but privileges only accorded to those who have proven their worth and can bear the responsibility. Fa Mulan has spoken highly of you Dragon Prince and I know even the pettiest bauble will not go to waste if he or his Dragon Bride have anything to say about it."

"My Emperor, the Dragon Bride, with all due respect, previously held an occupation of low moral-," Chi-Fu felt compelled to interject when the Emperor simply raised a hand to silence him.

"I think I have enough shiny things to last several lifetimes. Thank you Dragon Emperor Shi Huang," Lady Audrey then said with another bow

"I'm sure we'll find some use for the Eunuchs."

Magnus soon came into the conversation. To put bluntly he did not like Chi-Fu in the least and was eager to get him away from everyone else.

"Lydia, why don't you show our most honored diplomat Chi-Fu around Solitude eh? I'm sure he'll make many friends amoung the nobles."

The emperor held back a grin. "I believe that is a good idea. Be sure to write a report about your findings."

Lydia nodded and proceeded to escort Chi-Fu before he had a chance to protest despite clear attempts to do so. "B-B-But she's a... she's..."

"Oh quit your blabbering and follow me."

"Why I never..."

As Chi-Fu's and Lydia's voices faded Into the distance, Magnus The Emperor and Mulan were all left giggling.

"Hopefully Chi-Fu will not show disrespect towards your housecarl." The Emperor said in a surprisingly apologetic tone.

"Oh don't worry. If he gives her lip she'll counter twice as hard. It's why I like her so much....why do you put up with him anyway?"

"Some dogs are better kept on a tight leash for their own safety and his family lineage has done a great many things for China." The emperor said.

"He may come from a great lineage, but he himself is still a milk-drinker though."

"Why else do you think I secretly gave Mulan his job?"

Magnus smiled and looked to Mulan. "You both grace me with your presence. I hope I've not dishonored you by not having you betrothed to my son."

Mulan giggled. "Oh no apologies necessary. I figured based on his letters his heart was pretty much spoken for. Besides, I kinda had my eyes on someone else."

Magnus noticed Mulan had her eyes on Chein Po as he and the trio were talking with the others.

"Oh, why Chien Po?"

Mulan shrugged. "He likes my cooking. That and he helped me get through the point whenI was at my lowest."

"He's also my strongest warrior and the most spiritually minded." The emperor added. "I'm glad you find my gifts worthy Dragon Bride. The Dragonborn told me you had a dragon's appetite for treasure. So I hoped to saite it."

"I think you did more than saite it." Magnus teased as he ribbed his soon to be Daughter -in law. "I think you just about made her head explode. Hahaha."

The emperor smiled. "Just remember, not to forget where you came from. Those who forget where they started are often the ones most lost.

"Advice worthy of Parthanaux himself. So how long will you be staying?"

"Only a short time I'm afraid. My duties lay with China. However I do propose that Mulan and her battle brothers stay and serve as my am ambassadors, perhaps even settle here should they be fortunate enough. I think you'll find they integrate well amoung your people."

Magnus beamed but was a little surprised. "I mean I would be honored but what about your family mulan?"

Mulan sighed in sadness as she remembered said lowest point she mentioned earlier. "My family was murdered and my home was destroyed by a group of Surviving Huns in retaliation for me killing thier leader. My battle brothers are the only family I have left."

"Oh."magnus said. "I'm sorry, I understand. I'd personally be honored if you and your battle brothers stayed. However the decision is not up to me alone."

He then looked to his son and future daughter -in law.

 

[Husky_Khan]

Prince Kadlak noticed the recent somber tone in Mulan's recent writings but didn't press the issue, especially since upcoming nuptials were in portent then. "I have no issue with it," the Prince then said as Audrey just shrugged, clearly having no problem with it either to the point she didn't even feel it needed a vocal response.

Nevertheless she decided to state it a moment later, just to make sure it was obvious. "I agree with my Husband," she then said with a waggle of her eyebrows before gripping his arm and leaning in, resting her head on his bicep as she did so. "If you require servants while here, we have Eunuchs to spare!" she then added jokingly.

Prince Kadlak locked eyes with Mulan momentarily, the unsaid intent showing he might've had more words to share with her in a relatively more private setting as the King's Chamberlain, Falkbryn Firebeard stepped forward.

"Pardon the interruption My King," he then said to Magnus before turning to nod to the Shi Huang. "Dragon Emperor." He turned to the two soon to be weds. "We should return to the Blue Palace if we do not wish to delay the Wedding Ceremony my Prince and Lady," he then said before nodding to Lady Audrey's Handmaiden Erdi, hoping she'd follow his lead as well to expedite things.

Truthfully enough the scene on the harborside was attracting a crowd and combined with all of the dignitaries from near and abroad moving to the Blue Palace, the large numbers of individuals crammed into a very linearly laid out city could prove a bit congested even for foot traffic if they tarried too long.

Offering their momentary farewells to the Chinese delegation and friends, Prince Kadlak and Lady Audrey were soon being hustled back to the Blue Palace and soon enough split up once again to prepare for the Wedding Ceremony itself.

---

"What kind of flower is that?" Millicent asked.

"Oh... it's a brooch actually," Ser Loras Tyrell then replied, wondering who this strange dusky skinned girl was and why she was allowed to bring a heavy crossbow into the Palace since ranged weapons were forbidden... though admittedly it appeared she had no quarrels with her as well thus making her heavy crossbow a rather impotent weapon in regards. "But I mean... it's ah... shaped like a flower I suppose."

"Do you like flowers?" the woman then asked, her dark eyes widening as she drank up the sight of the leanly built, long haired Southern knight.

Loras meanwhile frowned briefly, awkwardly and then glanced over to see where her sister was, before turning back to the strange woman, wanting to be nice to the odd stranger. "Yes well... I am from Highgarden. We are known for our flowers." Millicent's eyes lit up even more at the mention of something so sweet when another beautiful individual suddenly stepped in and laid her hands on Sir Loras.

"In fact you are talking to the Knight of Flowers himself, Loras Tyrell!" Princess Margaery Tyrell then said, injecting herself in an attempt to rescue her brother from what appeared to be a hapless romancing attempt from some random exotic noblewoman who clearly had no sense of proper decorum in this part of the world. "And you must be Elena of Jafari?"

"Huh?" Millicent asked, a look of confusion easily etching on her face as she had no idea what Margaery was talking about.

Margaery's face paled slightly. "Oh... dear... dreadful. My mistake. I made an improper assumption. My apologies. Fare thee well My Lady," Margaery then said, grabbing Loras by his shoulders and whisking him away from the strange foreign Woman with all haste.

"It was nice-," Millicent started to fumble in a flustered response, wondering if she had blown her shot and not realizing she never even had a chance of hitting the target.

"Lovely crossbow," Loras shot back, trying to be polite as his sister dragged her off. "What was that Sister? Was she not a noblewoman?"

"Lot of queer folk here to be fair. Stay close to me and I can see about protecting you from any potential embarrassment," Margaery then said. "Half of the Empire and further along are here. If one of us doesn't find any prospects here, Grandmother will have us racked over the coals," Margaery chided sarcastically.

Loras rolled his eyes. "There are some Elves here I noticed," Loras then replied.

"True and you are a bit Elven yourself I feel sometimes but I doubt any Elf Maiden who came here looking for a Husband is looking for one as Libertine as yourself," Maegaery then stated bemusingly.

"Could be they want a Man whose not too far afield from what they could pluck from Ulthaun," Loras replied in half jest as his Sister just shook her head at his wit. Loras then nodded over to where two Elves were accompanying one of the Nord nobles into the reception hall. "Oh there's Jarl Siddgeir!" Loras then said, noticing his arrival.

"Pass," Margaery replied immediately. "Ambition without motivation is a curse I would rather not inflict upon our family, at any price." She scanned the crowd some more, looking for suitable husbands or wives alike. "Legate Rikke," she then said, pausing momentarily before shaking her head. "Might not be highborn enough unfortunately. Would've been a good match for you I believe though."

"Oh really?" Loras asked whimsically.

"Maybe if she had a beard..."Margaery then said mockingly under breath, as Loras just chortled, rolling his eyes at another of her jokes at his expense.

---

"So it's actually the Bonds of Matrimony are quite a simple ceremony. The Pomp and Pageantry is something that you'll be surrounded by, not necessarily a part of," Erdi explained.

"So the vows are said by the Priest of Mara and we exchange the Rings... sorry... Bonds of Matrimony and accept said vows," Audrey said, already knowing that is the case but saying it aloud just to stiffen her resolve as the Handmaidens finished donning her dress.

"A vow... but also a pledge," Erdi clarified.

Audrey nodded, somewhat understanding the distinction.

"Do you not worship the Nine My Lady? I was under the impression you did," Erdi then probed gently as Audrey shrugged.

"Rhya. Mara. I gave prayers and offerings so rarely that I couldn't say I profess fealty to any pantheon of deities even when I was a Lady before. It is mostly Ranald and Mask who watched over me during my times of troubles and pledges to them were mostly whispers for good fortune. But not to wrry, I should have no problems with the Ritual of Mara," Audrey explained matter of factly.

Erdi smiled when a Servant knocked on the door stating the guests were being seated in the Main Hall. They would be making their vows soon.

 

[KilroywasNOTHere]

Prince Kadlak noticed the recent somber tone in Mulan's recent writings but didn't press the issue, especially since upcoming nuptials were in portent then. "I have no issue with it," the Prince then said as Audrey just shrugged, clearly having no problem with it either to the point she didn't even feel it needed a vocal response.

Nevertheless she decided to state it a moment later, just to make sure it was obvious. "I agree with my Husband," she then said with a waggle of her eyebrows before gripping his arm and leaning in, resting her head on his bicep as she did so. "If you require servants while here, we have Eunuchs to spare!" she then added jokingly.

Prince Kadlak locked eyes with Mulan momentarily, the unsaid intent showing he might've had more words to share with her in a relatively more private setting as the King's Chamberlain, Falkbryn Firebeard stepped forward.

"Pardon the interruption My King," he then said to Magnus before turning to nod to the Shi Huang. "Dragon Emperor." He turned to the two soon to be weds. "We should return to the Blue Palace if we do not wish to delay the Wedding Ceremony my Prince and Lady," he then said before nodding to Lady Audrey's Handmaiden Erdi, hoping she'd follow his lead as well to expedite things.

Truthfully enough the scene on the harborside was attracting a crowd and combined with all of the dignitaries from near and abroad moving to the Blue Palace, the large numbers of individuals crammed into a very linearly laid out city could prove a bit congested even for foot traffic if they tarried too long.

Offering their momentary farewells to the Chinese delegation and friends, Prince Kadlak and Lady Audrey were soon being hustled back to the Blue Palace and soon enough split up once again to prepare for the Wedding Ceremony itself.

---

"What kind of flower is that?" Millicent asked.

"Oh... it's a brooch actually," Ser Loras Tyrell then replied, wondering who this strange dusky skinned girl was and why she was allowed to bring a heavy crossbow into the Palace since ranged weapons were forbidden... though admittedly it appeared she had no quarrels with her as well thus making her heavy crossbow a rather impotent weapon in regards. "But I mean... it's ah... shaped like a flower I suppose."

"Do you like flowers?" the woman then asked, her dark eyes widening as she drank up the sight of the leanly built, long haired Southern knight.

Loras meanwhile frowned briefly, awkwardly and then glanced over to see where her sister was, before turning back to the strange woman, wanting to be nice to the odd stranger. "Yes well... I am from Highgarden. We are known for our flowers." Millicent's eyes lit up even more at the mention of something so sweet when another beautiful individual suddenly stepped in and laid her hands on Sir Loras.

"In fact you are talking to the Knight of Flowers himself, Loras Tyrell!" Princess Margaery Tyrell then said, injecting herself in an attempt to rescue her brother from what appeared to be a hapless romancing attempt from some random exotic noblewoman who clearly had no sense of proper decorum in this part of the world. "And you must be Elena of Jafari?"

"Huh?" Millicent asked, a look of confusion easily etching on her face as she had no idea what Margaery was talking about.

Margaery's face paled slightly. "Oh... dear... dreadful. My mistake. I made an improper assumption. My apologies. Fare thee well My Lady," Margaery then said, grabbing Loras by his shoulders and whisking him away from the strange foreign Woman with all haste.

"It was nice-," Millicent started to fumble in a flustered response, wondering if she had blown her shot and not realizing she never even had a chance of hitting the target.

"Lovely crossbow," Loras shot back, trying to be polite as his sister dragged her off. "What was that Sister? Was she not a noblewoman?"

"Lot of queer folk here to be fair. Stay close to me and I can see about protecting you from any potential embarrassment," Margaery then said. "Half of the Empire and further along are here. If one of us doesn't find any prospects here, Grandmother will have us racked over the coals," Margaery chided sarcastically.

Loras rolled his eyes. "There are some Elves here I noticed," Loras then replied.

"True and you are a bit Elven yourself I feel sometimes but I doubt any Elf Maiden who came here looking for a Husband is looking for one as Libertine as yourself," Maegaery then stated bemusingly.

"Could be they want a Man whose not too far afield from what they could pluck from Ulthaun," Loras replied in half jest as his Sister just shook her head at his wit. Loras then nodded over to where two Elves were accompanying one of the Nord nobles into the reception hall. "Oh there's Jarl Siddgeir!" Loras then said, noticing his arrival.

"Pass," Margaery replied immediately. "Ambition without motivation is a curse I would rather not inflict upon our family, at any price." She scanned the crowd some more, looking for suitable husbands or wives alike. "Legate Rikke," she then said, pausing momentarily before shaking her head. "Might not be highborn enough unfortunately. Would've been a good match for you I believe though."

"Oh really?" Loras asked whimsically.

"Maybe if she had a beard..."Margaery then said mockingly under breath, as Loras just chortled, rolling his eyes at another of her jokes at his expense.

---

"So it's actually the Bonds of Matrimony are quite a simple ceremony. The Pomp and Pageantry is something that you'll be surrounded by, not necessarily a part of," Erdi explained.

"So the vows are said by the Priest of Mara and we exchange the Rings... sorry... Bonds of Matrimony and accept said vows," Audrey said, already knowing that is the case but saying it aloud just to stiffen her resolve as the Handmaidens finished donning her dress.

"A vow... but also a pledge," Erdi clarified.

Audrey nodded, somewhat understanding the distinction.

"Do you not worship the Nine My Lady? I was under the impression you did," Erdi then probed gently as Audrey shrugged.

"Rhya. Mara. I gave prayers and offerings so rarely that I couldn't say I profess fealty to any pantheon of deities even when I was a Lady before. It is mostly Ranald and Mask who watched over me during my times of troubles and pledges to them were mostly whispers for good fortune. But not to wrry, I should have no problems with the Ritual of Mara," Audrey explained matter of factly.

Erdi smiled when a Servant knocked on the door stating the guests were being seated in the Main Hall. They would be making their vows soon.

some of the ships from DunBroch managed to squeeze into the port of Solitude. King Fergus and his family jumped out only to find the square was not all that crowded, something odd given the nature of the occasion.

"Where is everyone?" he called out not having much of an indoor voice.

"the prince and princess will be reciting thier vows soon." One of the gaurds said. "Most have already gone to the Courtyard."

King Fergus cursed. "I hope we aren't too late." his wife gave him a dirty look.

"I told you we should have left earlier." Princess Merideia said with a slight grin.

"How was I supposed to know that we'd run into a sea monster? I hope we have not offended the king." he then looked to the guard. "I bring tribute to the prince and his bride. May I present it to them after the Ceremony?"

"Of course, the wedding feast will last an entire week, you'll have plenty of time to present your gifts then. Now, you should hurry there should be some room to observe the taking of the vows.

-----

Maramal was excited to be marrying the prince just as he had married his father twenty years ago. He looked upon all the people in the courtyard with a joyous smile on his face. once the noise died down and the royal couple came forward he started to recite his part.

"Ah here is the proud couple now. Let us begin the ceremony. It was mara that first gave birth to all of creation and pledged to watch over us as her children, it was from her love of us that we learned to love one another. it was from this love that we learned that a life lived alone is no life at all. We gather here today under Mara's loving gaze to bear witness to the union of two souls in eternal companionship may they journey forth in this life and the next. in prosperity and poverty in joy and hardship.

he then looked to the royal couple.

"Do you agree to be bound together in love now and forever?"

 

[Husky_Khan]

Taking each others in one hand, the respective Rings, the Bands of Matrimony, in the other, it was Audrey who spoke first, as per tradition from her homeland and after much trepidation and buildup, the betrothed Bride was able to say those simple words. "I Accept."

It was such a simple two words to utter and she had a brief swell in her throat even managing to speak those in such a large Hall, with so many honored and wealthy Guests in attendance as well as Common-folk that she was relieved her voice had carried enough beyond a whisper as she almost expected. The smile rising from both her intended Husband and the Priest Maramal soothed her a bit more as she seemed to fulfill her small part in such a big ceremony as the eyes within the Palace quickly shifted to Prince Kaldak.

He immediately knelt before her, as one would when initially proposing as she realized, there was never an initial proposition for marriage considering their circumstances.

"By the Love of Rhya, who nurtured your body and soul, for the Luck of Ranald, who touched my heart when you enthralled me, and by the Sword of Myrmidens who will keep our foes at bay, I promise before The Nine that above all else I will be good to you and accept this Bond of Matrimony," he then said, watching Audrey's eyes growing larger and larger as he invoked the names of the foreign, at least to Skyrim, Gods that she barely worshiped before invoking the primary faith of is Kingdom and began to slip the ring upon her finger.

She was struck speechless both by his display of piety as well as submission that she paused for a moment there, standing before him, over him as he slipped the Band upon her finger when Maramal simply gestured to her open hand. Gently coaxed into movement, she tugged on his hand, bidding her Husband to rise up and then did the same, applying her Ring to his finger as well whilst once again mouthing she accepted the vows, thoroughly flustered as she had already said the vows a moment prior.

 

[KilroywasNOTHere]

Taking each others in one hand, the respective Rings, the Bands of Matrimony, in the other, it was Audrey who spoke first, as per tradition from her homeland and after much trepidation and buildup, the betrothed Bride was able to say those simple words. "I Accept."

It was such a simple two words to utter and she had a brief swell in her throat even managing to speak those in such a large Hall, with so many honored and wealthy Guests in attendance as well as Common-folk that she was relieved her voice had carried enough beyond a whisper as she almost expected. The smile rising from both her intended Husband and the Priest Maramal soothed her a bit more as she seemed to fulfill her small part in such a big ceremony as the eyes within the Palace quickly shifted to Prince Kaldak.

He immediately knelt before her, as one would when initially proposing as she realized, there was never an initial proposition for marriage considering their circumstances.

"By the Love of Rhya, who nurtured your body and soul, for the Luck of Ranald, who touched my heart when you enthralled me, and by the Sword of Myrmidens who will keep our foes at bay, I promise before The Nine that above all else I will be good to you and accept this Bond of Matrimony," he then said, watching Audrey's eyes growing larger and larger as he invoked the names of the foreign, at least to Skyrim, Gods that she barely worshiped before invoking the primary faith of is Kingdom and began to slip the ring upon her finger.

She was struck speechless both by his display of piety as well as submission that she paused for a moment there, standing before him, over him as he slipped the Band upon her finger when Maramal simply gestured to her open hand. Gently coaxed into movement, she tugged on his hand, bidding her Husband to rise up and then did the same, applying her Ring to his finger as well whilst once again mouthing she accepted the vows, thoroughly flustered as she had already said the vows a moment prior.

The crowd erupted in cheers and roars. Magnus then raised his hand and the crowd quickly turned silent. There was one last thing that had to be done. After the civil war. Magnus made a promise that he would pass down his kingdom to his firstborn heir before he died but only if said firstborn could be shown to be able to best him in combat. That way there would be no doubt among the people of the worthiness of the king.

This was mainly for prestige sake, with the life of a Dragonborn being several times longer than that of a normal human, there was a more than likely chance that the bride or groom would never get to experience the prestige of being High Queen or King if The Dragonborn waited till death to pass on the title and he wanted Audrey to experience the prestige and weight of that title...that is if his son proved to be strong enough to leave and rule. Elisif agreed to this for the simple fact that she never wanted another situation like the stormcloaks to happen again He had prepared his son for this since he was old enough to draw a sword. Magnus only hoped the training would be enough.

He parted the crowd, stood before his son, and gently placed a gauntlet down in front of him "Kodlak Dragonborn, Son of High Queen Elisif the Fair and Solitude and fruit of my loins. I challenge you in a duel of arms, not to the death but in a challenge of strength and skill, for the right to the throne. We do this not with Shouts, just strength, Skill, and steel alone. Prove to me you are strong enough to take my title and guide our people as High King."

 

[KilroywasNOTHere]

(Cutscene)
The two battled back and forth Kodlak was younger and faster but Magnus was older and more experienced possibly even stronger. Neither one used shouts and used skill on skill alone. Eventually, however, Magnus felt himself fall to one knee. Kodlak had won. Magnus got up and raised his son's arm. "All hail the king!"