What runs but never gets tired?

[wiseriver]

* Wise River entered the city itself. She walked to what she believed to be the courtyard. A building rose above all of the others in the town, triangular in shape it appeared to draw people to it, as it did her. This must be where I can find this Empress. The people of the town did not seem to notice the dirty outsider.*

[Arachnia of the Hour]

Resplendent Wood, 2

*as the sun lost itself slowly behind the hills, the Empress sat poised on the ledge closer to the ground on the side of the Imperial Manse. She had exchanged her black gown for one of white, the silk almost the same color as her milky skin. The underdress was sleeveless and solid white except for the hem on the bottom of the dress which reached down to her ankles where a line of silver discs had been embroidered. Over this was a netted black layer in the design of multiple interconnecting spider webs that covered her neck and slid down her arms and over her body, creating a contrast of black and white that hugged the body. Deep black eyes were fixated on a Moonsilver spider the size of her hand that was crawling about to entertain her; its mate sat silently in her lap. Her luxurious black hair lay about her shoulders and curled a little when a few of the locks met her breasts, a sultry smile playing about her lips. As the girl approached, Arachnia looked up and fixed her seductive gaze on the glowing caste mark on the new girl's forehead. It was a miracle she hadn't been grabbed yet, it looked like the elders were slipping. The vision in white (and black) stood and walked over to the new Lunar, the spiders that were in her attention retreating up her arms to rest on her shoulders before becoming inert. The widow's black gaze ran over her guest, a look of amusement and interest dancing about her features. When she spoke, her voice was low and almost husky, a voice one usually heard in the bedroom*

Evening, Moonbeam. I am told that you seek shelter here? What of your Mentor in the Silver Pact?

*she had already guessed that this one had no idea what she was talking about, but as suspicious of the other Lunars as Arachnia was, she still wanted to find out if this girl had run with the Silver Pact yet, though the still-glowing caste mark claimed her a newborn. How cute... Maybe she would keep her? The others might want to claim her, and she may or may not let them. This was a child who could be molded and given a freer view of the world around her than quite a few of the forces in a Lunar's life might allow. Assuming she really had no idea what was going on, of course...*

[wiseriver]

*A voice called to Wise River.Mentor?....Silver Pact?*

I don't know what you mean. I came here looking for a safe place to sleep for the eve. Is it safe to presume you are in fact the Empress? It is you who I ask humbly then.

[Arachnia of the Hour]

Resplendent Wood, 2

*the Empress smiled and giggled again softly, her delicate porcelain hand raising to cover her mouth*

You're so cute! A new little Moonbeam to be spun and woven into a web of Luna's favor..

*maybe she would keep her.. she could see the intelligence in her mannerisms, despite how grimy she was, and found herself curious to find what caste this girl would don. She sighed inwardly, knowing that she would have to call in the Silver Pact, it was her duty for one. But also, she had no desire to let this one fall to chimerism, those beasts were avoidable assuming someone found them soon enough..*

Of course I'm the Empress, don't I look like one?

*her full lips fell into a heart-breaking pout as she looked right at the new Lunar, the twinkle in her eyes giving off that she really wasn't upset*

I am Arachnia of the Hour, moonbeam, what are you called?

[wiseriver]

* Was the Empress laughing her? Wise River could feel herself fill with frustration. Realization struck that yes she probably was giggling quietly at her, considering Wise River looked at this point like a washed up old shoe, grimy with little use until remade. Her feelings subsided and a softness began to emulate from the grand woman before her.*

Yes ma'am you do appear to be the Empress, forgive my ignorance. I am know as Wise River. I do not have much to offer in return for any kindness you may lend me but I do with to know why do you speak of the moon? I have been hearing mumblings like this since I entered you city. What does this have to do with me?

[Arachnia of the Hour]

Resplendent Wood, 2

*the Empress's brow furrowed, creating a look of deep sadness for the moment that her concerned expression held her features*

Surely Luna has spoken to you... Nary a Lunar can agree on what our deity looks like, but every one has met the Goddess (or God, if you prefer) of the moon. Just before that light began shining from between your eyes you would meet Her. You are obviously one of Luna's Chosen, and that is all I will need to keep you

*the spider's eyes twinkled mischievously for a moment and she winked at Wise River*

That, and that I found you first. Well, it would seem, Wise River, that Luna has sent you to me at a peculiar time. I think that we can put you to use soon, though. Tell me, what sort of skills do you carry?

[wiseriver]

Resplendent Wood 2

In such case my empress I am at your service. I have good skill with the earth and clay. I have very good hands for building and crafting something from nothing.


* Wise River breathed a sigh of releaf. She need not worry. The empress would assist her. Wise River was begining to remember the meeting of Luna. She felt silly for forgetting such an overwhelming experiance.*

[Arachnia of the Hour]

Resplendent Wood, 2

*darkness was falling rapidly now and Arachnia looked up at the brightening moon*

It's getting closer to night now.

*the Empress turned to gaze to Wise River and nodded*

I will introduce you to the others and then we can have a meeting before Ress's trial. In four days the Emperor, my Solar Mate, goes on trial. Approximately one week ago arrows rained on each of the four cities, turning anyone who was hit by them into processed wheat, never to return again. This is the power of Ress's bow, however, we don't believe that Ress did this. There's absolutely no reason, nothing for him to gain by it.. However, the initial evidence points to him. Because of this we have been working to find out what really happened and deal with the consequences whatever they may be. There is more and we will fill you in when we all gather together. It's unfortunate that you have come into our Empire at such a time of turmoil, but things are how they are. You have offered your assistance, and though you have no ties to my Mate, you will. Some of our business aside, tell me, what shapes are you able to take, moonbeam?

*a single eyebrow raised as she looked at the Lunar in front of her, watching her as she processes, trying to get a feel for the girl's mindset*

[wiseriver]

You are being decieved then Empress. I will gladly assist in all that I can to make things right for Imperveress. This is not a right state for any city, a lone empress with a jailed emporer. I do not doubt your abilities I just think it must be hard to without your mate.
As for shapes, haha that is one of my most proud traits. I can take the shape of an otter. I have always loved their ability to live without worry.

[Arachnia of the Hour]

Resplendent Wood, 2


*Arachnia stared at the younger Lunar for a moment before she started into the conversation again. She wasn't sure if she had meant insult by her comment, there being no expression from Wise River's face or body*

I am perfectly capable of running this empire by myself, though to be honest I'd prefer not to. An otter? Is that all? That will definitely have to be changed, no Lunar should only have one, especially if that one can't even fly. I will teach you how to hunt for Luna, moonbeam. It will have to wait, however, until after the meeting. Tomorrow we will get you a new form or two. Come, walk with me to my Manse, since you cannot fly

*the Empress watched Wise River as she started walking in the direction of her Manse, expecting the otter to follow her*

[wiseriver]

Resplendent Wood 2

Wise River followed in the Empresses footsteps.This is when she needed to be, to learn about her future and to grow in her skills. Did the Empress say flying? The thought amazed River, the idea of soaring not only in the ocean but in the air meant a sense of freedom in life River would love to have. Following the Empress was difficult as her long legs carried her much quicker then Rivers would ever be able to. The people of the city watched as the odd couple walked through in city proper. She felt out of place in a place so large. The town was teaming with life, the square held a life of its own, all centering around the towering Empress. Rive felt that in order to know her future she must know this woman.


(still better the TO)

[Arachnia of the Hour]

Resplendent Wood, 2

*realizing that Wise River was falling behind, Arachnia slowed her pace a little and soon they were at her Manse, the huge building spread out before them. The Empress turned to the young Lunar and looked at her with serious eyes*

There will be no speaking of what goes on inside of this Manse to anyone other than Emperor Ress himself, is that understood? I greatly dislike anyone other than him and myself in here, but I feel that it is necessary in this case

*the doors opened and Arachnia stepped through, raising her hand and moving her fingers in a "follow" motion. The image of the Empress continued down the hall as she lead the dirty woman to the bath and stood at the door*

You can bathe here, please do. I will return with materials so that we can decide what you will wear and we can make a choice for your first outfit once you are clean. Any questions, moonbeam?

[wiseriver]

Resplendent Wood 2

* Wise River walked behind the empress easier as the pace had been slowed, it gave her legs a much needed break. She beckoned to the Empresses call to follow and entered the Manse. The energy from the building drew her in ever more.*

Clothes?

*Wise River looked down at her belongings, the old sailing pants and tunic had turned from a cream to a splattered green and black with mud and grass stains from her journeys in the woods surrounding. Her long two-toned hair had become more entangled with twig and leaves, a change from the usuall shell or braids.*

I do not require much Empress, a warm tunic and nonrestrictive pants will be fine, I have no preference for color but if given a choice, green would be nice.

[Arachnia of the Hour]

Resplendent Wood 2,

*Arachnia blinked at the suggestion of a pantsuit, forgetting for a moment that she had unusual taste in clothing, before shrugging mentally to herself and walking toward her stash of materials and gathering the desired bolts before setting to work. It was awhile before she finished, but when the Empress had finished, she looked at her newest creation with satisfaction. Carefully, she brought the clothing to the Unblooded and held them up for her to see*

Wise River, I have your garments here for you when you are finished. There is a towel already in the bath

*the tunic was of a deep emerald green silk that almost shimmered when the light was redirected on the fabric, the v-shaped collar and cuffs embroidered with silver thread in an intricate spiraling pattern. Given that the neckline was low, a thin silver cord criss-crossed through the bodice area and ended at the apex of the "V" where it could be tied in accordance to the chest size and desired airflow of the person who wore it. The pants were of black silk that was sewn in such a way that it billowed out around the legs to promote breathing through the fancy material. The hem of the pants also carried the silver embroidery that matched the shirt, though accompanying it was a light blue wave design with shells lining the inner waistband. All in all, Arachnia was happy with what she could accomplish on such short notice, though she would have liked time to make a pair of black and silver sandals to match. The Empress sighed internally, this was just as things were for now. It wasn't as though she could never get around to it. Hopefully their guest would be done soon, it had only been a few hours since she had left her.. though the girl had been filthy. Such was the way a lot of Lunars went through life, though that wasn't something Arachnia desired, and she did have a choice*



{{Intelligence+Craft Air difficulty 5.... 7 successes}}

{{3 motes spent on 1st Intelligence Excellency}}

[wiseriver]

Resplendent Wood, 2

*Wise River looked at what the Empress was extending to her. The clothes and silks were by far the finest she had ever seen. The green was by far her favorite with the color glistening in the light outside. She stared for a bit longer than necessary, realizing this she responded.*

Kind Empress, thank you. I truly appreciate the finery you have given me. I am almost ashamed to wear it in my condition.

* She grinned *

I imagine after the manse I will be able to find a place to clean my skin. So as to fit in a bit better in your city.

*Wise River changed quickly and followed the Empress to the Manse to find her fate within the city.*