RP:Mesdoram & Brennia Qu'isto
Part of the Mearcstapa Arc
Summary: Brennia is the only one to know of Mesdoram’s possible fate at the final act of his play. Their dreams have woven their paths together and in this short time, kept at the palace along with him being recruited to be her bodyguard, has brought them closer. The avian asked him to marry her no matter what the future brings, but at least he will know he is loved before his potential dying day.
(OOC | This takes place two days before Mesdoram's brilliant play, Two Sides of the Same Coin.)
Exquisite Ballroom
A rather large room is what you find yourself immersed into. The furniture in this room is quite expensive looking, though it consists of mere chairs that line the walls. The flooring has only a thin layer of water upon it, completely void of any impurities as it appears to be a solid rock floor. Archways open to the east and west into different parts of the castle. To your north lies the fountain and gardens through the main entrance/exit of this castle.
Brennia | The ballroom has been transformed into a wonderland of flowers with shades of white, ivory and little accents of a navy color. Gold painted chairs with white cushions face an altar of sorts with an arch made out of lush green vines and beautifully blooming flowers. Distinguished guests are ushered to their seats on either side of the room by the palace service employees whose torsos are dressed in gold uniforms. The color scheme of the night is white, gold and navy blue. Tall candelabras along with priceless chandeliers illuminate the space romantically and even little lotus flower candles float delicately along the thin layer of water covering the stone floors. Naga slither along delightfully toward their seats and guests not from Alithrya during their extended stay have decided to go barefoot for the evening, letting their feet splash in the water. A string quartet plays a serene melody while everyone is getting situated and there is a hushed murmur flowing about because the illustrious Queen looks absolutely regal tonight, but it is quite rare when she graces such an event to officiate nonetheless! This must be a special person to the Queen for her to afford such a privilege. The music shifts and everyone turns to look as the groom enters. Some confusion is to be had because why is a drow in Alithrya, but everyone keeps a pleasant and respectful expression upon their face.
Mesdoram | The man surveys all the decor and the diverse gathering of people inside the luxurious ballroom; much like Mesdoram’s physical stature, his time in Alithrya has been quite diminutive but has bolster himself quite the reputation amongst the natives here for the wedding. While many guests are here to see the exceptional beauty of Brennia, Mesdoram sports a sapphire travelers suit equipped with all the accessories and supplemental attire that came: long white button down shirt that matches his flowing long alabaster hair; a navy dress tie swaying freely as the dapper drow marches confidently towards the altar; to match to golden pallet themes of decoration, all of Mesdoram’s cufflinks are forged with this precious gold metal; his massive muscles threaten to burst especially his biceps, garnering a few impressive stares from both the jealous males and the awestruck females (sorry ladies - this drow is spoken for). Mesdoram rhythmically walks insync with the music playing for his grand entrance; striding with ridiculous swagger, Mes winks in jest and nods respectfully to those he recognizes in the crowd and secures his proper positioning for the ceremony to continue. The elated drow dawns a perfect poker face concealing the swells of excitement and flutters inside his body; however, should someone place two fingers near the base of his wrist, one could feel his heart pumping pure euphoria through his veins a mile a minute. There are no thoughts racing though his mind about the future - only the anticipation of elation as he waits to marry the woman of his dreams.
Reginae had been first to grace the altar as was custom. She’s gone to great lengths to help afford and man the wedding with palace staff. It was planned rather quickly so the non-Naga guests are limited to other visitors brought by the queen to join their little family. Reginae had also spared no expense for Brennia’s care or clothing. When the beautiful bride appears, as they all know she will, every one of Brennia’s dreams that Reginae can see fulfilled will be. She’d been near tears when her lovely songbird asked her to officiate. At the altar, the Queen stands in a smart white suit, a golden shirt peeking out between the crisp lapels. Her crown sits neatly in her tribal braided hair to remind those of her station and ability to pronounce the two. Their marriage would be recognized by all other realms because of her station. As the music announcing Mes starts to fade, all eyes turn down the aisle as they slip into silence, waiting for the bride’s entrance.
Brennia | A peaceful moment of silence settles over the ballroom and some would swear the world stood still for this moment in time as anticipation comes to an all time high when the grand doors are being pulled open to reveal Brennia. Dressed in a pristine white dress that flatters her tall slender frame and a lace overlay to give the garment a textured look, but best of all is the backless aspect for her wings to comfortably fit and the buttons at her lower back holding the dress secure. Her tattooed dark skin seems to glow and there is a renewed luster to her black wings along with her hair. Nadia outdid herself as she had styled the avian’s hair in deep waves that cascade down one of her shoulders because it had been pinned off to that side. She sees the dapper man she calls Sapphire waiting for her and that soft smile spreads across her lightly glossed lush lips because she feels that wonderful nervousness mixed with excitement. As much as it would make sense for Brennia to take stock in this moment given how little she knows Mesdoram and her list of failed relationships (even running out on her own arranged marriage), the second their eyes meet down that aisle, she can only think of her future with him. Her bare feet gracefully begin their journey along the white silk aisle covered in an inch of water. The little train to her dress ripples beautifully over the water covered aisle as she continues confidently and securely toward the arc of flowers. She doesn’t care to even notice how the naga guests look confused further, but are still slightly taken aback by the blushing bride and her natural beauty. Giving a little squeeze to the bouquet of white, ivory and the pop of blue flowers in her hands as she anticipates the type of look her husband to be is currently giving her. Finally reaching the altar with Mesdoram and Queen Reginae, her smile brightens as the music tapers off. Nadia is standing just off to the side, being Brennia’s maid of honor and accepts the bouquet from the avian so she may hold both of Mesdoram’s hands. She looks to the Queen, patiently waiting for her to begin while also trying to give her an appreciative expression for this lavish event.
Mesdoram is perplexed as the quiet fills the illustrious ballroom; never attending so sophisticated before, someone forgot to mention to Mes the order of operations for wedding ceremonies. As the grand doors open, the awestruck drow loving stares at the grand reveal of this wonderful service; Mes no longer masks his inner thoughts as a simple smile forms across his face - soaking in every moment, Mesdoram watches his much better looking future wife stride elegantly down the aisle while the congregation respectfully watch Brennia’s journey to the altar. For such a ruthless man possessing a cruel vocabulary, Mesdoram will never convey the proper words to express what he feels watching Brennia smiling that sweet smile in this moment… such wonderful bliss envelopes his tiny body. As Brennia exchanges her beautiful bouquet to her maid of honor, Nadia, Mesdoram graciously accepts his wife’s hands into his own and stares lovingly up into her teal beauties. The initial clasp sends a soothing chill radiates from Mesdoram’s fingertips that travels through his muscly shoulders and downward throughout his entire body: this man is tired of not being married to this woman and ready for their matrimony to become official. Patiently waiting for the union to be announced by the Queen, Mesdoram soaks in Brennia’s presence; though her beauty is second to none, how she makes has made him feel every moment of their relationship is all that flashes in his mind… followed by a playful wink - the man can’t help himself.
Reginae | Once Brennia’s glided to the altar on the watery floors, Regi can’t stop her eyes from watering. The loveliest creature in all of creation stands before her, with this odd drow. Maybe the Queen would come to love him in her own way one day. As both bride and groom come before her, Reginae steps forward to kiss Brennia’s cheek as if she’s the person responsible for giving the avian away. Another hush falls over the room as Reginae starts the ceremony. “We are gathered today to witness the Union of Brennia and Mesdoram. Though their time together has been short, their love is anything but.” Regi regards them both before continuing. “The Gods and history tomes teach us all how short time is. Like the glory of battle, our lives are a flash of brilliance in the dark of eternity. These two souls have decided to commit their flash of time together, making their light brighter and bolder than it would be alone.” She stretched out her hand, asking Nadia for the rose gold rings the couple meant to exchange. “Now, Mesdoram, kneel in the blessed waters below and share your eternal vows to your betrothed.” She hands him Brennia’s ring and will watch with patient love as Mes gives his vows before Aramoth. When it’s complete, she turns to Brennia and gently rests Mesdoram’s ring in her palm. “Please kneel to do the same little songbird.” Reginae will offer Brennia her hand to help the avian kneel in the water without difficulty. Nadia wipes tears away from her eyes at their beautiful promises to each other. Thedez watches from the crowd, shaking his head. Once Brennia has spoken her peace, Regi raises a hand over each of their heads before moving both hands to meet in the middle over them. “ and by time’s command and Aramoth’s blessing, you shall bind yourselves as one.” This is the naga version of ‘You may kiss the bride.’
Mesdoram listens to Queen Reginae’s instructions to the letter and kneels down on both knees… then one… then gauges Brennia’s reaction who smiles at his indecisiveness… but this is all so novel for the drow and does not want to offend anyone. Hoping to be in the correct position, Mesdoram decides one knee should be good enough and gently receives the golden wedding band offered by Nadia. Vows… what words could possibly echo into this throne room that could convey Mesdoram’s absolute feelings for his soon to be wife… The harsh reputation of this drow certainly will be lessened after these words, but Mesdoram cares not: “My Angel… my Brennia… my love… You have captured my dreams and taken my heart from my chest… These moments with you have simply been the greatest gift time has given me… without you I am nothing more than a lost soul wandering aimlessly without purpose… you have given me peace in a lifetime of anguish. I vow to you, my angel, that I will always be yours to hold and I will always love you… through sickness and health, I want to live the rest of my life with you… if you were to ever become lost, I would search to my dying breath for you… and most of all…I vow that you will be cherished by me forever… in this lifetime and the next. I love you, Brennia.” The not-so-very sentimental man speaks poetically from his heart and stares kindly up at Brennia and nervously plays with her rose golden ring before placing the wedding band on her left ring finger - sneaking in a kind kiss onto her hand before allowing her to put his ring on.
Brennia tries her best not to make eye contact with Queen Reginae for too long because seeing her teary eyed is going to make Brennia teary eyed and it will mess up the little bit of makeup she is wearing! She smiles sweetly to Reginae and accepts such a gesture as she has long accepted being a willing captive here in Alithrya. Her cheeks are starting to hurt because she simply cannot stop smiling as the Queen begins to officiate and her heart feels as if it may leap from her chest, but those solid teal hues are fixed on Mesdoram's silvery ones. The words she speaks alone are so beautiful and touching that Brennia does lift a hand to dab her fingertip in the corner of her eyes. The avian has been to a couple of weddings and even ran out of her own many years ago, but the naga customs are new and exciting as they are also all the more welcome. She gives Medoram all of her attention as he lowers down on one knee, then both and then one again, but she also doesn't know the correct etiquette here, so she shares an understanding little secret smile with him. When he begins talking, many of these themes she already knows, but strung all together before some strangers means so much more somehow. Brennia offers her hand down to Mesdoram as she can tell he is not entirely sure what to do with the ring and when he takes her hand, she ever so slightly wiggles her ring finger as a hint. Once the ring is secure on her left ring finger, she accepts Queen Reginae's help and kneels down, wondering how she is going to top that with her heart lodged in her throat. It begins similar to her protector, "my Sapphire. My Mesdoram… My love. I have nestled into a home I have found in you and I believe that wherever we are, as long as I am with you, I am home. I have never experienced such a sense of security and been shown such devotion that at first you took my breath away, but then breathed a whole new life into me. I vow to you that I will always help pull you from the darker parts whenever you feel down and give you nothing but kindness when you need it most… even when you don't need it most," she giggles softly and she even earns a subtle murmur of chuckles from the guests. "I vow to heal your scrapes or bruises and stitch your cuts. I vow to hum a lullaby when sleep seems impossible and I vow to make you feel the way you so effortlessly make me feel by simply being near me." She blinks and a couple of happy tears trickle down her cheeks before Nadia hands off Mesdoram's ring. His is also rose gold, but thicker than her own and then she gently glides it onto the ring finger of his left hand. She smiles sweetly over to him as they are both still knelt in the water.
Mesdoram smiles with every word Brennia speaks to him; his lovely angel speaks directly to his heart and swells with comfort knowing how devoted his wife is to him… hearing how she will sing him to sleep with her angelic voice feels his tiny body with so much happiness. He offers his left ring finger with no resistance and instinctually brushes away a single tear with his right hand from Brennia’s cheek. The two stare lovingly into one another… like they are the only two in this room; time slows down for Mesdoram as he soaks in every single second of this wonderful moment. Allowing the two of them enough time to exchange their vows, Reginae raises her hands and announces both of them formally as husband and wife with Aramoth’s blessing echoing in the ballroom. As if on cue, Mesdoram stands up to meet Brennia at eye level, wraps her sweetly into his arms, and places an affectionate and passionate kiss unto his new wife’s lips; his right hand snuggly and securely holds onto her left cheek with his thumb instinctually whipping away the remainder of tears trailing down from her eyes. As they end their first kiss as newlyweds, Mesdoram places a final kiss on Brennia’s forehead as he whispers softly… “I adore you, my angel…” Mesdoram would help his loving wife to her feet and stand proudly next to her, hand in hand, as they begin their journey together to the Formal Dining Room where the celebration will continue into the night.
Brennia can feel this crystallizing moment as they stare far off onto one another's eyes when it is time for their first kiss as one. This overwhelming sense of peace and happiness fills her, it is obvious by her brilliant smile brightening up her whole face because for the first time since her death, she truly feels happiness touch her soul. It is like she can finally take a deep breath once more. Brennia may be taller than Medoram, but not that much taller. When he stands and leaves her kneeling, she still must look up at him slightly from her position. Then he wraps his arms around her and those wings curve enough to envelope them, but still leave their faces unobstructed so people can 'awww' at their loving lip lock. Her lashes flutter to a close as their lips touch and she simply melts into him like butter on toast. With their lips perfectly folded together she can barely hear the clapping and cheering from the guests. She decides to keep her eyes closed as he so affectionately kisses her forehead and then her eyes open to look up at him with another smile, "and now I am officially your angel. I cherish you, my Sapphire," she replies as he helps her back to her feet. As soon as they stand, the Queen is announcing that there is a dinner ready in the room to the east. Most of the guests move along ahead of the bride and groom, but Brennia doesn't mind because she can take this opportunity to mouth an ever grateful and teary eyed 'thank you' to Queen Reginae.
Formal Dining Room
A large wooden table, darkly finished, makes up the center of this room. It sits upon a fine rug, though covered in water, it is still quite clear and magnificent to behold. Chairs surround the table, at least a dozen as other furniture lines the outside of this room. Fine tapestries are draped upon the walls as well as some odd paintings and pictures of various scenes throughout the history of this city and land. To your west lies the ballroom as the doorway to the south appears to lead to a bustling room that emanates quite a bit of noise, kitchen-esque noise.
Brennia | After the ceremony all the guests are encouraged to join the happy newlyweds and the Queen for dinner. The string quartet are the first in the dining room so they may add some peaceful ambiance as the guests follow the scent of freshly baking bread. It seems there is a bread making station where people are encouraged to knead their own dough, add bits of chocolate, honey, oils or spices, but there are even sharp tools to score designs in their bread before placing their creations in a large brick wood burning oven. More gold painted chairs with white cushions surround circular tables which have elaborate centerpieces and navy colored tablecloths which hover just above that inch of water on the floor. Guests are finding their assigned seats as they are being served a decadent meal of their choosing and of course there is a large pitcher of Alithrya’s famous naga-ritas at every table. The bride, groom, (possibly the Queen) and the wedding party have a table all to themselves at the head of the room. Speaking of the happy new couple, an emcee announces their entrance after everyone is sitting with their dinner, “Let us welcome for the very first time as husband and wife, Mesdoram and Brennia Qu'isto! Please give them your heartfelt applause!” Pure delight spreads across her whole face and her wings subtly flutter at hearing her new last name announced like so. She looks from the welcoming crowd of guests down to Mesdoram with her fingers laced with his as they enter the dining hall as one so they may take their seats.
Mesdoram strides in confidently with his new wife hand-in-hand as the crowd stare in awe at the drow’s elegance and pure class… okay, most of the applause and cheering is for Brennia; nevertheless, when the emcee announces their arrival, Mesdoram is absolutely thrilled to be here with Bre. Catching her gaze as she looks down to him, the drow smiles sweetly and gives her a playful wink – however, he sticks out his tongue while winking showing off his silly lighthearted mood. Looking around at the marvelous decorations and color schemes, something catches his eye: a bread making station?!? What a delightful treat to bake deliciousness out of! Has Mesdoram gone to the afterlife? Marrying the woman of his dreams and… did she arrange their wedding to have such a setup just for him? Before the night is over, Mesdoram shall have his baked goods and/or steal the entire setup for his room… whatever option is less illegal. Staving off his desire for doughness for now, Mesdoram sees where Brennia and him are to be seated and guides Brennia where the wedding party has congregated Pulling out her seat for Bre, the drow says, “For you, Mrs. Qu’isto!” Allowing her plenty of time to get settled, Mesdoram will sit next to Brennia to enjoy the celebration near the head of the room; though Queen Reginae may rule all of Alithrya, this lucky drow feels like the king tonight… but elects not to tease Queen Reginae with this comparison wanting to not seem overly cocky – Mesdoram is just delighted to be here with Brennia among her friends; seeing her happy makes this drow feel accomplished and ready for anything.
Reginae is still holding her humanoid form for the celebration. Her white suit mimics her snowy scales as she moves to her place among the wedding party (Nadia included). She takes her seat next to the healer with a wide grin. Reginae nudges Nadia with an elbow with a look suggestive enough to make the shy naga blush. “You looked good up there. What if that’s you sometime soon?” Has Nadia been hiding a secret bae?! Brennia would be the avian to ask. Nadia’d become so close to Brennia, she must share all her secrets with her. Nadia just shakes her head before placing her order for dinner. Reginae’s order, of course, came before hers and the rest of the guests gathered to celebrate. The Queen faces the entrance to applaud the happy newlyweds, realizing for the first time she had no idea what Mesdoram’s last name was. Did people discuss last names anymore? Brennia looks like she’s walking on air; her bright smile radiating while the crowd cheers and claps. Some of the naga guests still look confused, wasn’t Brennia the Queen’s lover? Did the Queen share her bedmates with others? Afraid of Reginae’s retribution if they failed to join in the festivities in a believable way, those who don’t quite understand the purpose of this union add their voices to the cheers. Once the couple takes their seats at the table, Reginae will reach over to Brennia and squeeze her hand lightly. “You look beautiful darling.” Her azurite eyes flick to Mes, trying to summon a compliment for the man with an uncomfortable smile. “And such a distinguished husband.” Distinguished enough to disembowel someone on meeting the Queen. Yes, very distinguished. Then the Queen pulls back to let the pair chat happily (she assumes) about their upcoming plans and their feelings about the ceremony and celebration thus far.
Brennia is blushing and in a tiny fit of giggles at Mesdoram's flirting antics. The excitement from all the guests is gracefully welcomed as she smiles and waves to the strangers even though she knows they are only here because the Queen commands it. "Why thank you my doting husband," she chooses to reply with instead of Mr. Qu'isto because that part isn't new for him, but being someone's husband is. She takes the Queen's hand in her own, offering an appreciative little squeeze while blushing anew at the compliments. "I cannot begin thanking you enough my Queen. The turn out is simply breathtaking," but she knows Reginae has always had impeccable taste. The pair spend the rest of the night sharing cute whispers, having the first dance, cutting the first piece of cake and of course making plenty of their own fresh bread with crinkly, crunchy crusts. Guests have started thinning out, filled with food, alcohol and cheer. It was an absolute rager! Brennia shyly approaches the Queen on her own, while Mesdoram is making one last homemade bread, "I was wondering, my illustrious Queen... Would it be too much to ask if Mesdoram and I share a room now that we are wed?" Even though they have been sharing each other's rooms since he arrived. No one seems the wiser, so she won't admit to it, but it would be wonderful if they didn't have to sneak around the issue anymore.
Mesdoram would indulge and carbo-load all his bready desires in a moment; but for now, the tiny drow is content with sharing a meal with Brennia, the Queen, and all the guests come to honor the happy couple. Upon Queen Reganie’s amazing compliment to Mesdoram, the man feigns shock as he’s never heard such kind words from the Naga Queen. “Why thank you, Queen Reginae! We Qu’isto pride ourselves on our awesomeness!” Such vernaculars have never been uttered from Mesdoram’s mouth as he finds his finest compliment to Reginae. “You are simply the best Queen I have ever had the privilege of serving; may your reign last thousands of years.” Of course, Mesdoram strongly dislikes the matriarchy society structure of his drow brethren, but the naga Queen has captured his small heart. Mesdoram and Brennia share their first dance as the string quartet plays a wonderful melody, find themselves with cake, and whisper sweet nothings all night – and of course… BREAD MAKER!!!! Finding himself wanted to bake one more scrumptious set of bready goodness, he sees the Queen and Brennia in conversation; he cannot hear the nature of the discussion but offers a wave to the lovely ladies in his life, blowing both of them a kiss (bread may not have been the only thing he’s consumed tonight… *cough whiskey cough*). Mesdoram definitely isn’t belligerent like he is know to be, but right at that ‘feeling good’ tipsy; after the completion of his baked goods, he gets his order to go and begins walking to Brennia and Reginae – gifting them the pleasure of his mighty presence, Mesdoram allows the ladies to finish their girl talk and patiently waits with his bread in hand.
Reginae hides her discomfort at Mes' words with grace until he comments on her spectacular leadership flattery. Then her smile grows wider, most honest, as her ego inflates exponentially. She spends the rest of the evening relaxing on the side lines. She's left Nadia to handle any issues with the help, but the healer returns on occasion to keep Reginae company. She watches Brennia and Mesdoram dance and exchange all manner of loving glances and smiles and smugly the Queen blames herself for their love affair. She had bid him to be her bodyguard. Such a thing was bound to happen with someone as lovely as the avian. A hollow thing tries to tick to life in her chest. Her left hand presses against her sternum; she just looks moved by the festivities. This whisper of pain grows into an ache that radiates through her bones. Physical pain. That's quite odd. Was this due to Callus or the leviathan? Brennia's walking in her direction so Reginae pulls herself together imperceptibly. "My darling dove." She replies with soft affection, greeting Brennia. Her question is met with a raised brow and knowing smirk. "I meant to discuss that with you." Reginae starts, "but, a moment. I'll be right back."
Due to her exit, she misses Mes' whiskied affection. The Queen is gone for roughly five minutes before her white suit strolls in. However, the person in the suit is no longer Reginae. Nicolau, looking more healthy and stable then when they last met, approaches Brennia with wide arms to pull her into a hug. He whispers a quick apology to her for missing the ceremony, letting Brennia go after placing a kiss on her cheek. "I guess I got you something, judging by this box." He reaches into his white suit pocket and extracts a box smaller than the length of his hand. A small, azurite bow ties it closed. "Ouvrir," he encourages her to open it. Inside the box sits a carefully crafted key, made of polished bronze. The key's handle has been shaped into the shape of a silhouetted dove. Presumably Mes arrives around the time Nico's hugging Brennia and he's politely ignored. Nadia, seeing all this, rushes over to touch Brennia's shoulder.
"Oh dear," Nadia chimes, looking at Nico, who is looking back at her in confusion. Nadia flags down Yozenra who squints at Nico's appearance. Nico, this poor human with inky black hair and hazel eyes, stands by blinking awkwardly. He's trying to give Brennia a gift he doesn't remember getting her. Why are there so many people?
"Don't worry," Nadia says to Nico. Then to Brennia, "Right this way!" Nadia grins while Nico and Yozenra step in line behind the happy couple. Nadia weaves them out of the ballroom, eventually coming to a stop in the Royal gardens. This section is full of gigantic flowers. She's stopped them just outside a bush of giant roses, the stems devoid of thorns. Nico and Yozenra stand by as Nadia parts the bush to reveal a tiny cottage tucked away inside. It's latticed windows shine out a warm light. The interior is already furnished with Brennia's bedroom furniture with matching decor for the rest of the rooms. For obvious reasons, they couldn't move any of Mes' things but his room looked untouched. The key in Brennia's hand would open the front door and once anyone stepped into the house they might notice that the inside is impossibly roomy for the small building they've just stepped into. An engraved plaque sits above the knocker on the front door reading 'Qu'isto'. The plaque is from Nadia.
Nico looks at the cottage and grows a smug smirk. "Damn, I'm an excellent gift giver." Yozenra rolls her eyes and sighs.
Brennia looks across the hall at Mesdoram with a look she has not given the drow yet due to her one glass of champagne, but it is a very good type of look. Avian's typically have a stronger constitution, but after a few years of no alcohol until she fully recovered from her surgery, it is severely out of whack and one drink gets her perfectly tipsy these days. "Of course my beauteous Queen," she says out loud to no one, apparently, seeing as the Queen has already snuck off. What is she up to? Just as she is watching her husband approaching, something else catches her eye as a rogue in a while suit is nearing. Her words are stuck as he comes to her with open arms for a hug, maybe she glances to his hands for a dagger as flashes of her first memory arriving to Alithrya are resurfaced. She accepts his hug with a smile, nonetheless. It is strange how far away their last encounter feels at this moment, but she is ecstatic to see Nicolau and whispers in reply that it is truly nice to see him.
By now Mesdoram has joined them and with grace, she introduces the pair, "Mesdoram, please meet Nicolau." She gestures from one man to the other as she continues, "Nico, meet my husband, Mesdoram." Then she informs her husband by saying, "Nico is another guest who works closely with Queen Reginae." Of course they are one in the same, but that isn't Brennia's secret to tell… at least Nico and Reginae -used- to be one in the same. With the Queen's delicate mental state, it seems to those closest to the odd situation that Reginae's alter ego has branched off into his own personality. Many thoughts buzz around in her head, but now her attention is stolen by the box in the rogue's hands, "oh?" The azurite ribbon is a dead giveaway that this is actually from the Queen. Brennia won't be pointing that out now. "You really think of everything, don't you?" She can only assume this key leads to a couple's suite in the guest wing, but it is a lovely gesture all the same.
The avian wants to worry that this might be a step backwards, but she must put that in the back of her mind for now for this is her wedding celebration. Nadia and Yozenra take over for Brennia in the worry department as they assist the three of them with whatever predicament this is. She can see the confusion on Nico's face, but luckily Nadia and Yozenra take things over from here. Happy to follow Nadia, Brennia finds her smile again and takes Mesdoram's hand in her own, gently caressing her thumb over the back of his hand while they walk. It doesn't take long for Brennia to realize they are not headed to the guest wing and then she shares a slightly perplexed look with Mesdoram, but she trusts the process. Once the cozy cottage is revealed in the depths of the peaceful royal gardens, she is left looking astonished for a moment before finally walking up to the door to caress her fingertips over the plaque on the door.
"This is," happy tears threaten her eyes as she looks back at Nadia, Yozenra and the smug Nico with a smile of her own. "This is just perfect and I do not deserve such kindness," she turns fully to the three to approach them. First she hugs Yozenra who has never fully warmed to the avian, but that doesn't matter at this moment because she is just so overwhelmed by gratitude. Then she tightly hugs Nadia and kisses the sweet healer's cheek. She reaches Nico and also gives him a tight hug and whispers, "remember this moment," before giving a little quick peck to the apple of his cheek. Then she takes her husband's hand, a new smile spreading across her lips that advertises absolute joy in her whole face while saying, "goodnight everyone." They slip behind the door to enjoy their new home within a home that is just theirs.
Mesdoram bobs and sways to the music as everyone politely talks amongst themselves; not needing to be the center of attention today, the drow is quite content with his wrapped-up bread treats as the ladies talk – he side-eyes the bread maker though… plotting when he can ‘legally’ move this wonderful station to his room. Suddenly, Mes quirks his head toward the human named Nicolau as Brennia introduces the two men to one another; the drow squints his eyes at the human and choice of attire… thinking it’s in bad taste to wear the same outfit as the Queen. “Nice to meet you, Nicolau…” Mesdoram greets the human properly with some skepticism lingering in his eyes as Brennia hugs Nico. Mesdoram is very oblivious to naga’s shapeshifting ways and his tiny mind would explode if someone explained this innate ability to him. “… apparently you work too close with the Queen… does she know you stole her wardrobe? Queen Reginae looks much better in it than you, Nicolau…” Did he say this out loud? He said this out loud despite thinking he merely kept the thought in his mind.
More people are coming! Nadia and Yozenra randomly appear in Mesdoram’s vision- where did they come from… a whiskeyed up drow may never know. Not knowing if it was Brennia’s guiding touch or Nadia, Yozerna, and Nico getting into formation, Mesdoram takes his place next to his wife and accepts her hand openly – returning the affection she gives him as Nadia navigates everyone through the lingering crowd still celebrating. As they are… escorted away from Mesdoram’s room, his instincts start perking up… ‘Oh no… they know I’m going to steal the bread maker!!’ This time, Mesdoram does keep this thought to himself; his face, however, conveys confusion just like Brennia (but for very different reasons). When Brennia and Mesdoram arrive in the rose garden and the greenery parts ways to reveal the cottage, Mesdoram sighs in relief… ‘They don’t know…’ His eyes darted left and right seeing no one was wise to his plans… you sneaky little devil drow.
Mesdoram admires the custom Quisto plaque hanging above the door knocker while Brennia gives her thanks to Nadia, Nico, and Yozerna. “Aww they do love me.” Mesdoram musters up seeing his family’s name proudly displayed for the world to see. Feeling Brennia approaching and instinctually reaches for her hand before she stands side by side together at the cottage’s doorstep. “I am going to bake you sooooo much bread.” A still tipsy drow ‘whispers’ loudly to Brennia as he holds his treats in his other hand; Brennia opens the door and the two walk in together to retire for the night… but not before waving his goodbyes to Nadia, Nico, and Yozerna. “Sleep tight everyone!” Are Mesdoram’s parting words before closing the door… the three then hear an audible “WOW!” from inside the cottage… they look at each other with confused expressions before one of them breaks the silence… “Why the drow though?? He’s so… quirky? Weird?” If Mes could interject, he would correct them. “Fools, I’m adorable!!” But alas… Mesdoram cannot correct them… yet.