This post occurs 2 weeks after the swamp adventure in Hosuth.

Valas sat by the bar reading the invitation:

You are cordially invited to attend the nuptials of  Father Nanill Vandree joining to the Lady Naminè…

Valas shook his head in disbelief.

“What do you have there?” the attractive barkeep asked. “What did the courier want with you?” only Evony could make jealous accusation sound like a melodic bards song. She leaned across the bar as if she were trying to read the script upside down.  

Parchment in one hand, the dexterous rogue slid his wine glass to the side with his other, just in time to keep it from spilling. “You did that on purpose.” he said with a grin.

“Did what?” she asked feigning innocence leaning back to her side of the counter. Evony slid the wine glass back where it was. “So what if I did?” she had a mischievous look about her.

“I prefer to drink my wine. Not wear it if it’s all the same to you.”

“You need to lighten up a little….” she jibed. “You’re much too intense sometimes.”

Valas looked up from the parchment to Evony who was making faces at him. “Sorry my love. I’ll work on it.”

She filled his glass with more wine. “See that you do” and smirked.

He took a sip of the dark, almost purple liquid and raised the glass in appreciation.

“So what does the letter say?” she asked again. ‘Who’s writing you?”

Valas answered, “It’s not a letter. It’s an invitation?”

“For what?” she demanded.

“A wedding my moon and stars.” he said affectionately.

Evony furrowed her brow, “Who’s wedding?” her tone darkened.

“My brother Nanill” Valas answered honestly. “It seems he intends to wed the human we abducted from that surface town some 10 years ago.” Valas shrugged his shoulders. “He’s always had peculiar tastes…”

“I see.” Evony replied dubiously. “And do you intend to have your Calashite whore accompany you to this event? After all if he’s marrying a human…” her accusatory tone did nothing to hide her disgust.

“My what? That thing?.” Valas scoffed. “Of course not. To be fair, I’m not quite sure where she might even be at the moment.” He paused to think for a few seconds. “Last I recall I had lent her to Nazmyr to clean his tree house. I haven’t thought about her since.”

“Is that so?” She eyed him suspiciously.

“Indeed. I’ve been in your company since we returned. I’ve sat at this bar daily and retired to our bed with you by my side. How could I know any different. Surely you trust your own eyes if not me.” 

The pixie faced barkeep wore a scowl nonetheless. “I’ll assume your intention is to accept this invitation?”

“Of course. He is my brother after all.”

“She pursed her lips and nodded slowly. “Will you be attending alone?” she leered.

“No. I think not. I believe I’ve found a suitable companion to accompany me to the affair.”

Evony’s eyes ignited, ablaze with fury.

“And who is this harlot, so much so in a hurry to see her life end…” her breaths were measured, the fire in her blood reddening her cheeks. “She must be some foreign whore then, for all in this city know you belong to me.” a spoon twirled dangerously between her fingers.

“She’s no foreigner…” Valas made a face reflecting his distaste of the idea. “And I truly hope she does not wish to die so soon. I’d like her to be around for a long time to come. My heart would be emptier without her.”

“NAME” she threatened. The spoon had stopped moving, her grip on her preferred weapon caused her knuckles to whiten with tension.

Valas chuckled, “You already know her name…Evony Fleur D’Marquis.”

Whack! Spoon struck bone. “I won’t ask again.” she menaced.

Valas gritted his teeth as he rubbed the redness from his hand. “Hey! I told you her name. Evony Fleur D’Marquis. You. Your name. I’d like you to be my lady for the evening.”

“For the evening?” one eye squinted as her head tilted.

“For that and every evening to come my love. Would you do me the honor of accompanying me to my brother’s wedding Evony Fleur D’Marquis.”

She paused for a moment as the realization that Valas had been toying with her seeped in. 

“I’ll need a new dress.” she said softly.

Valas was still nursing his wounded hand, inspecting it for swelling. “Of course. We can have a seamstress come in or if you’d prefer, I can take you out to the bazaar.”

She smiled seductively. “I think I’d enjoy a day away with you. Let me see your hand.”

Valas reached out and she took it in her own. “Tsk, tsk, tsk. Bad bruise but not broken.”

She reached under the bar producing a jar of ointment. She applied the salve gently to his hand.

“Was that really necessary?”

Evony paused and glared at him. “You think you’d know better than to taunt me…..” Evony’s voice softened. “I guess I can be a little sensitive when it comes to you.”

“Sensitive?” He said eyes moving to his swollen knuckles.

“Fine.”  She frowned . “And perhaps a tad jealous…You should be flattered that I even think of you so.” her face aloof with indignation.

“I thank the goddess for it every day.”

“And well you should.” She smiled. “There your hand is fine. Enough whining.”

Valas flexed his fingers. The swelling had gone as did the pain. The salve left his skin with a smooth feel to the touch.

She ran her hand over his. “See. I can be nice when you deserve it.” She leaned across the bar and kissed him. “Now take me shopping.”

“Elarra you have the bar.” He said motioning for Evony to join him. She sauntered around the bar and over to Valas. 

Everyone in the tavern seemed to pause their conversations and all eyes fell on the young barkeep.

She stood near her paramour and smiled. “You heard him.” She hooked his arm with hers and led him out into the city.

They walked casually through the streets making small talk. “I don’t recall ever seeing you leave the Dark Embrace.” he began.

“Why would I? All I need is there. There are servants available to run errands.”

“But don’t you get tired of being there all the time? Surely you must enjoy the city or any other sites from time to time.”

“From time to time. I get around more than you’d think.” Her eyes glanced over to Valas.

“Ah. Here we are. House of Dra.” he smiled as their eyes met. “I’ve met Madame Dra A’Darorel on several occasions while doing business for the trading company. She is the finest seamstress in the city and perhaps the underdark. Mistress Freth would wear her gowns to important occasions and many noble houses desire her designs.”

“You don’t mean to dress me in the manner of an old matron do you?”

“Never my love. Come you’ll see. The woman is magic with fashion. I believe it was she who fabricated Nazmyr’s veil….and you know how particular he can be about his attire.”

“You mean feminine?” she smirked.

“Something like that.” Valas held the door for her. They entered into a receiving room with cushioned seats and several dress designs on display. It was early in the day and the place was rather quiet. It only took a moment before an older drow, slight of build with long white hair braided back for comfort greeted them. She wore a fairly straight gown cinched at the waist. The woman had a wizened look about her yet was attractive for her age.

“How may I be of service?” She asked politely.”Lord Vandree, it is good to see you.”

Before Evony could speak, Valas answered for her. “The lady requires a dress for a most formal affair. It’s well known that you are an artist with gem work ,your tailoring skills unsurpassed. I like the idea of a sheer platinum spidersilk set with purple amethysts in the bustier and and an interweave of black spinels cascading down to the hem. I could envision something sleeveless, open back, off the shoulder and a tight fit to accent her shape but pliant for ease of movement.”

The two women stared at Valas in disbelief.

“I would have suggested something very similar.” Dra broke the silence. “The amethyst to play off her eyes and the spinels to compliment the platinum of the silk and match the dark purple of the torso stones. I must confess myself impressed Lord Vandree. Please follow me” Dra led them to a room with a platform in the center, mirrors covered the walls and there were a few couches and soft chairs for seating.

Evony whispered to Valas, “You’ve been spending far too much time with Nazmyr. Remind me to remedy that.” Sarcasm laced her words.

Madame Dra led Evony to the platform while Valas found himself in a comfortable cushioned chair. “Am I to assume my young lord, that for one who so specifically knows what he seeks in a dress that price need not be discussed?” 

“I’m certain whatever the cost, it will be worth every coin. One does not visit the House of Dra and haggle with the most renowned seamstress in the realm. It will be an honor to have you dress my lady. Expense is of no concern.”

Evony raised an eyebrow looking at him.

The old drow smiled. “As you say Lord Vandree.” Madame Dra approached Evony. “May I my dear?” 

Evony nodded apprehensively, she was uncomfortable with the close contact but allowed the woman to touch her, measuring her while feeling her shape.”You’ve a lovely figure my dear.” the seamstress commented. “The colors will accent your beautiful eyes.” She watched as Dra made notes on a piece of parchment and drew a mock design while they waited. “I’m thinking I should add some diamond chips to the bustier for a bit of sparkle.” she said looking to Valas.

“Whatever you decide. I’ve no doubt it will be nothing less than spectacular.”

The woman smiled excitedly. “Perhaps my best piece ever…and that’s saying a lot. Thank you Lord Vandree. I’m delighted to see you again. I’ll send word when your commission is ready for fitting.”

Valas reached into his belt and withdrew a pouch. “I can be reached at the Dark Embrace. How much do you require for a down payment Madame Dra.”

“Unnecessary my lord. You may pay upon your full satisfaction.”

Valas bowed respectfully. “Thank you for your time madame.”

She smiled, “My pleasure my lord.”

Evony walked out of the establishment a little dazed. “Amethysts, black spinels….diamond chips? On a dress? You should have asked for a price. Do you have any idea what this is going to cost?”

“Somewhat.” Valas said affectionately. “As I said earlier though, one does not commission Madame Dra and haggle a price.”

“Sounds excessive to me.” Evony replied.

“There is no price I wouldn’t pay for your happiness my love. The dress is a small thing. A gift to show my gratitude for your acceptance to accompany me to Nanill’s wedding. You will of course outshine the bride. Nanill probably found a dress for her at the local cemetery.” he chuckled.

Evony couldn’t help but laugh. “I hope not.” She made a face as the idea of it became a possibility in her mind. “I mean it is a wedding…you don’t think?”

Valas shrugged his shoulders. “You never know with him.” The couple walked the Dark Weaving Bazaar until they came across the jeweler who crafted the spoon he bought for Evony some time ago. 

“Welcome my friends. How might Jaredz be of service?” he asked

“We’re looking for dark purple amethyst earrings, the type that dangle, perhaps this far.” He opened his thumb and index finger for size. “I’d like to see black and white diamond accents and a touch of black spinel.”

“And the metal?” 

“Platinum with a weave of adamantine. And a choker to match if you’d be so kind.”

“Of course my lord. Well thought.”

Evony stared at Valas for a brief moment. “I had no idea you were this wealthy…remind me to start charging you for drinks at the bar..” she joked.

The jeweler scribbled a number on a scrap of leather and slid it to Valas who read it and nodded his approval. “Excellent my lord. I shall begin straight away. Perhaps a week…no more than 2.”

“Thank you Jaredz. I’ll see you soon.”

Walking back into the bazaar Evony asked, “Isn’t this a bit excessive for a single night’s affair?”

“Would you deprive me the pleasure of doting on you? After all you are the most important person in my life.” If Valas didn’t know better he’d have believed she actually blushed. “Now for boots…”

She curled his arm tight squeezing into him. “I suppose you know a grandmaster cobbler?” she teased.

“Actually no. But I’m sure we can find something suitable here.” The two laughed together and continued their shopping.

They returned to the Dark Embrace later that evening. The dinner rush had already been served and all appearances led Evony to believe her staff had performed to her expectations. Even the new girl Zesdryn seemed to have found her place among the servers. Evony winked to Elarra and made for the access to the lower levels. Valas followed her down the stairwell into the guildhouse and the apartment they shared. Evony picked up the invitation Valas had left on her dressing table and admired the calligraphy. “Ha!” she exclaimed with great amusement.

“Ha what?” Valas asked.

She leveled the parchment toward her lover.

“Did you read this?” she asked, sass coating her words.

“Of course. It’s an invitation. We’ve already discussed it. Remember?”

“I remember the invitation part.” she answered coyly. “You seem to have been remiss in mentioning the fact that your brother Nanill would like you to offer a speech in his honor. In fact he asks it of all your brothers.” she snorted. “Hmm. There’s that famous Vandree arrogance.” She held the letter out to him.

Valas took it and began to read …”Why that egotistical little shit.”  

“Why? Because the rest of you are so humble?” She thought for a moment. “Rygos perhaps…no…not even him. I see how he is around you…the gentleman assassin who owns an art gallery.”

Valas looked at her incredulously.

“Don’t look at me that way…Would you like to prove it?”

“Please do.” he challenged.

“Very well.” she began with a sardonic grin. “Nazmyr is an aloof perfumed whore who revels in women’s fashion. King consort? Ha!” she laughed. “You’re not the only one with connections you know.”

Valas blinked startled by her comment.

Alaketh stumbles around like an iron golem, banging and yelling, announcing his presence to all obviously craving the attention the rest of you fail to show him. If I have to hear it’s my house one more time his next ‘house’ may be a crypt.”

“How would you…?”

She cut him off. “And while we’re on the subject of crypts? That invitation should suffice to prove Nanill’s high opinion of himself, if not the great temple and hoard of worshippers whose fealty he swims in.”

“Yeah but.”

“But? You mean bug? The firebug brother of yours who bakes the ‘finest cakes in all the land’ with the hands of snot goblins? He certainly isn’t too full of himself. Oh wait…Isn’t he the idiot who lights up the dark with fire and cooks fish in dangerous tunnels to attract attention.”

Valas was at a loss for words.

“How about Naris? Don’t get me started on him? He really thinks so much of himself that he would dare, come here, to this place, and caution me about my treatment of you. I’d call it a threat if I in any way took it seriously. He only lives because of you.”

“Actually I wasn’t going to argue about that one.” he answered like a child being chastised.

“Now let’s talk about you.”

“Wait… what? She caught him off guard.

“I’d almost find your hubris endearing if it didn’t continue to cause more enemies to rally against you. Yes we all know you’re a talented killer. Assassin’s are quiet about it. Trust me you’ve built enough reputation. Reel it in a little.” 

She paused, “I’ll give Ishtoshen a pass. He must not think much of himself at all to have bedded an orc and joined her clan.” She shook her head in disgust.

“Ok. I concede oh great and knowledgeable keeper of the bar.” he said with a sardonic grin as he sat at the large writing table Evony had brought into the room. Valas grabbed a quill and ink then some parchment. “Care to help?”

“Nope.” she said with a smile. “I think I’m needed upstairs.” She kissed and turned to leave. “I had a lovely day Valas. Thank you.” she winked and was gone.

“A speech…great.” He touched the quill to ink and wrote.

Brother, I must confess that while I was honored to receive your invitation I was somewhat taken aback by your gratuitous need for praise and acknowledgement. I usually expect such selfish and self serving expressions from our brother Naris. However as I considered your request I was forced to recall the events that brought us to where we are today and you and your lovely bride together. But before I do permit me the opportunity to say how exceptional you look this evening Lady Naminè…. I would say even beautiful though considering the company I keep I’ll refrain from such patronage as I’d much rather see us both survive the evening. 

Valas paused. He could feel Evony’s glare and see her smirk in his mind’s eye as if it were happening now while he wrote. 

So if all of you would be so kind as to indulge me I’d like to say a few things about my brother. The brothers Vandree are a proud group. We survived torture, sacrifice, conspiracy and assassination attempts because we stood together. Shoulder to shoulder and back to back. Quite an unusual thing for our people to know such loyalty and love for one another. We’ve persevered through hardships and defeated our enemies even when the odds were insurmountably stacked against us. None of it would have been possible without Nanill, he’s called upon his faith to heal and protect us. He’s used his well practiced incantations to invigorate us. We all have our part to play in our adventures and his has often been to support those of us directly in harms way to see that no ill befalls us. And on those occasions where all hope seems lost, it is often he who turns the tide of battle with timely sorcerous intervention. If any of you doubt the truth of what I say just ask my brother Ishtoshen who would not be here to celebrate with us this day if not for Nanill. Let him tell you the story of his epic battle with a web golem. Truly a sticky situation…am I right brother? And though we may differ in our religious beliefs, never has Nanill caused disagreement. 

Valas took a deep breath to gather his thoughts. He drew fresh ink from the well and continued.

So now I’ll assume Nanill’s appetite for praise and adulation to be sufficiently sated and his ego expertly massaged. Lady Naminè…, to be fair I don’t know all too much about you. You are one of the many secrets my brother keeps. You have obviously earned his favor, no small feat as he can be particular about who allows to grow close to him. His is a complicated world and the fact you embrace it and him so fully gives me no reason to question your devotion to him. See that it remains that way. I would wish you both, health, happiness and a quiet life free from the intrigue of our people to raise your many children in peace. May your faith in each other keep you safe and content and may the gods smile upon you as all of us do now. Junisol.

He put his pen down and poured some wine from a nearby decanter. One of the benefits of living beneath an inn was that wine was always plentiful. Once the wet ink had dried to the parchment he carefully rolled it and placed it in a scroll tube. Pleased with his writing Valas went upstairs to join Evony. But he could not help but think of Naadiyah as well. Would he ever have the life his brother so successfully made for himself? Did he even want it? The only certainty he had right now was the beautiful barmaid in the tavern above would be waiting for him. He emptied the goblet and made his way to the stairs leading up. “One day..” he answered his own question…”perhaps..One day..