As Rosalia walked up the many steps towards the main door of the Castle, her heart felt heavy. During her many travels, Yarfell had become one of her favorite cities to entertain. King Zeremedes had reminded her much of her own father as his court reminded her of another that existed so long ago... She mourned Zeremedes' death and was sorry that the current situation within the City had become so dire. She did not relish what would become of it if at the end of the week, surrender to Venger was the outcome.
"It all depends on the Princess," she murmured softly. She sighed deep and lifted her head as she strode towards the entrance where two armed guards stood.
One of the guards shouted out, "Hold!" perhaps a bit more loud than needed. He brandished a long spear and held it in front of her, barring her way.
"What business brings you here?" he demanded.
The other guard struck at the spear with his own.
"Taylan! Cul, what's wrong with you? This be the Storyteller! You dun't go barring the way against her, you oaf!" he admonished.
Taylan managed to look a might sheepish and muttered a few words about holding all who would pass.
Rosalia relaxed her stance and hooked her thumbs in the belt of her tunic. She gave an easy smile to the guard and said, "That's alright. You wouldn't be doing your job otherwise."
Taylan nodded and returned her smile a bit. The other guard grinned at her and said, "In you go, Rose. I'll be looking forward ta yer show this ev'nin'."
Rosalia gave them a dramatic bow and walked past them with an easy stride. Once through, she regained her straight-backed posture and walked forward. The one she needed to speak with was just inside. He was apparently waiting for someone.
Glancing back over her shoulder, she saw the Young Ones and their guests that she had glimpsed earlier. She was surprised that they had just made it to the entrance. 'Something must have kept them,' she thought. Looking a bit closer, she smiled to herself. 'They do make up something of a motley crew. I wonder what brings them and in the favorable company of the Young Ones at that?'
Turning back, she met the Councilor who once well advised Zeremedes, and now had the task of advising the Princess. Catching her eye, he walked forward.
"Ah, Storyteller. Have you come to perform?" he asked.
"I have come to see if the Princess desires my services this evening, as I see she will have more guests. Do you know her will in the matter?" Rosalia asked him.
The Councilor heaved a big sigh and shook his head. "Alas," he said, "as in so many matters of late, it will most likely depend on her mood."
The Storyteller nodded. "Then I shall await her pleasure in the room so generously given me. She knows she has but to summon. The Councilor gave a small smile and nodded. Rosalia smiled in return and giving a small bow, left to prepare herself for the possible summons.
As she left the entranceway, she cast one last sidelong glance at the large group the Young Ones were escorting in and introducing to the Councilor. Again she wondered what story theirs was to tell...
