Two Icy Hearts

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Two weeks. It had been two weeks since the Ungmar Covenant had proposed this union to the Vroman family. And only now, two weeks later, would Lumi have the opportunity to actually interract with her would-be-bride. She felt even more anxious now because of it. Just walking towards the second branch's caught attention from every person in the near vicinity. She knew she was a curious sight indeed. Didn't help how she felt however. Her tail flicked to and from anxiously.

Her blue skin was brightening up from her pumping blood that heated her cheeks. She did not like all this staring. Her pink eyes stared straight ahead as she marched throught he crowds, hiding her hands in her jacket's pockets. Ungmar had for a long time desired a more "solid alliance" between their two nations, and the only real input Lumi seemed to have in that regard was who she would wed. She could probably have refused it outright with just a bit more resistance all things considered. But in the end, she hadn't.

After some time, she found herself before the second branch mansion. This was the family she had preferred over the other houses of this land. She didn't know quite why, but something told her this family was the ideal pick. Breathing in and out to soothe her nerves, she curled her tail behind her and delivered three simple knocks to their front door. "Please be nice." She whispered to herself.

The man who opened the door wore a uniform of black and white, the distinguished look on his face was one that would not look out of place on a noble but no, this man was clearly a butler. He looked at the girl but did not ask her any questions. "Ah, you have arrived. The mistress has been expecting you, Miss Lumi." The man said before motioning for her to follow. He led her through the main yard, past a large fountain in the center, past a large, multistory building to a more humble two-story building just off to the side of the much larger one. Awaiting in front of the door this time was a woman, crimson red hair and the robes of a scholar adorning her body. Once reaching the woman, the butler bowed and took his leave.

Leaving Lumi alone with the woman, there was a brief minute of silence between them before the woman spoke up. "I thank you for making this journey to visit us, Miss Raza. I am Alice Vroman, head of the Vroman family's main branch. It is my pleasure to finally meet you in person." Alice spoke clearly and concisely. Even when she spoke kindly there was a sharpness to her words. "Your company has been patiently awaiting your arrival with anticipation, I do hope the two of you get along. My second cousin may have a sharp tongue, but she does not bite unless provoked." Alice attempted a dry joke before opening the door for Lumi and showing her inside. The home seemed much like any other home if not just a bit bigger. The first room being a large room with pictures and portraits of relatives still living and long past adorning the walls. She led the girl up the stairs and down a hall before stopping at a door with a sign above it labeled, "Library/Study". She knocked on the door before opening it and motioning for Lumi to enter. "I will have servants here shortly with tea and snacks. I will also have maids close by should there be anything you need." Alice stated, placing what she thought would be a comforting hand on the girl's shoulder before leaving her to her own devices.

Gwen sat quietly across the room, not even looking up as the door opened. She was absorbed into a book that she was reading, her eyes staring coldly at the page with a focus that, if looks could kill, the book would be a massacre of torn leather and parchment.

Lumi followed the woman called Alice through the courtyards and hallways until they reached the more humble construction. She had not anticipated such a... what should she say? A rushed greeting? She was used to the more nigh-familial approaches of Ungmar. She went from having her jacket taken by the butler to being escorted to Alice to being put before a door and implored to step inside before hurrying away. She understood that Alice was probably a busy woman of course, but still... It left her a bit ill at ease.

She opened the door further allowing her to step inside. She noticed the woman in front of her sat alone in the study a bit of distance away. Her harsh gaze was a frightening if not a little bit fascinating one. She looked frustrated. She looks agitated... She just hoped that it wasn't because of her. Her eyes, they were like rubies shaped into eyeballs, skin like porcelain, much like her mother's and long strands of black hair. She walked up one more step, just to let it be known that she was here before speaking up: "A poor read?" She asked softly.

Gwen pushed a strand of hair behind her ear before looking up from the book, her head cocking and eyes narrowing as she looked at the girl. There was a clear surprise in her eyes, though, it quickly disappeared to once more show nothing of her inner thoughts or feelings. "No, that is not the case. I was rather engrossed in it actually, it is an old Aðalbjörgian legend." Gwen said, a smile appearing on her face. Though it was not one of joy, more like a smirk than a smile truly. But what it meant, no one but Gwen herself could answer that question. "If I may ask, who might you be? I have never seen you before and I am expecting an important meeting soon." She leaned back in her chair and crossed her leg over the other. "If Alice sent you to check on me, assure her that I am still here, and I do not intend to leave. I said I would give this a chance..." She said, her lips pursing a bit before she let out a quiet sigh, "And I intend to." She finished with a wave in the odd-looking girl's direction.

Lumi was caught by surprise. Did... Did she just dismiss her? 'How dare she? How dare-' She thought before something struck her. She curled her tail behind her back, an act she usually did when she was nervous and was actively trying to steel her nerves. 'She doesn't know...' Lumi thought. How was that even possible? How was she not aware of this arrangement? How much had they told her and how much was she in the dark on? She did not move out of the spot, custom saying that one should not intrude past someones threshold unless invited in. She curtsied gracefully before presenting herself. "I am Lumi Au Raza. I hail from the far away eastern continent Valhalla and represent Ungmar. Forgive me, my lady, I was just under the assumption that this evening had been reserved for us. I didn't know you had other arrangements too." She replied, playing oblivious to that this was probably the very meeting Gwen refered to.

Gwen had started to open her book up again when her ears twitched and she froze with the book half-open like a deer caught in the headlights. Her eyes were slowly widened, a clear look of 'Oh Shit!' creeping onto her face as she looked back up toward the girl. She recognized the names she'd said, though not her own aside from the family name. *"Perhaps it is the bastard's sister? Coming to check up on me before he arrived. Yes, that made sense. But that didn't fix what she had done. She'd spoken down to her, confused her for a servant."* Gwen got to her feet and sat the book down on her desk. She gave a bow, "Please, allow me to apologize. I am Gwen, the future head of the Vroman's branch family. I meant no disrespect to you or your family. I was just expecting someone... manlier?" She explained, her calm facade was starting to break as she tried to hold it together in the face of her critical error. "Are you... Perhaps the one I am supposed to meet today? Or are you here in the stead of a brother or other male relative?" She asked, figuring it better to ask now rather than continue to make assumptions.

And there it was. She had been under very different ideas of how and who she would meet with this day. Lumi only smiled, tilting her head ever so slightly. "No offense has been taken, and I am indeed the one you were supposed to meet today. My apologies if I didn't make some details clear. Maybe I was just a bit too nervous about this meeting to think clearly. I have no brother, or eligible relative so... yes, here we are." She said softly, her hands clutched in front of her, a graceful move to many, but one which only really served to calm her nerves once more. "I understand if I am not quite what you expected. As I understand, arrangements like these are a bit unorthodox?"

*"A girl? Her parents had set her up with a girl? How did they expect this to work? She'd never hinted toward her feelings about women. Surely someone else would have had to have told them. Was it Triss? Lyn? Maybe Alysa, or even Osmund? Damn then all... "* Gwen thought as she moved around the table. "There is no need to apologize, Miss Raza. I was the one lacking information. When this was set up, I immediately came to my own conclusion as to how things would go down." She said, pulling out a chair and offering it to the blue-skinned girl. She noticed the girl had a tail, another oddity with this one.

Once Lumi had taken her seat, Gwen moved back to her own seat, sitting down across for the girl as she tried to figure out what to say or do. Frankly, she wasn't upset with this outcome. She'd expected a dimwitted pig or a self-centered narcissist of a man to walk through those doors. Instead, it was a polite and unique looking woman. Though, she would not make her decision on how to feel about things just yet. No, she would not, there was still much to learn about this... Lumi. "While you are indeed not what I expected, I assure you that I am not left vexed by this turn of events. But I would not go so far as to say I am relieved either." She said, there was no telling if her words were meant as a compliment or an insult.

"As for the unorthodox nature of these arrangements. No, they are quite common among the noble-born. Though, it is illegal to force such things. Even so, I never expected that my parents would ask this of me..." She explained, trailing off as she tapped her fingers on the cover of her book to keep anything resembling an awkward silence from filling the room. "You are a long way from home, Miss Lumi. I pray that your journey was not an arduous one? Have you experienced anything resembling a culture shock?" She asked, figuring the best thing she could do was learn more about this mysterious girl.

Lumi nodded. "Of course. I am still and unknown factor in all of this. It is wise to be at least a little bit cautious." She replied before proceeding to the next questions. "Well... I suppose that there has been some conflicts. I mean... The drinks are a bit weird here. I tried something called "whiskey"? I thought my throat was gonna shrivel up, and I got called weak for it. I don't see how worry for one's health is considered weak. But if we go beyond drinks and the like... I guess your customs have been a bit... Shall we say exotic?" She said, hoping that her choice of words was acceptable and not offensive. "I got called a stiff just a week ago. I found this group of people in the middle of a square, dancing, laughing and yelling. They seemed to have a lot of fun however. I learned that day that you don't have many rules against non-hostile commotion in the streets. All these dancers, singers and jokesters. It is envigorating to see such things I suppose. Back home you can get arrested for such things. This is... Something to get used to." She smiled softly. "Oh! And your religions! So strange. So many practices that don't involve gods or spirits. Why is it even called a religion then? I even saw this big gaudy church not too far away."

"As for the travels? It was quite easy actually. It is much nicer and comfortable to just walk the distance rather than work around ships and caravans." She said carelessly, looking up at the ceiling.

Gwen was amused by the stories Lumi told her, her time in Ashvattha had its ups and downs. But such was to be expected when traveling to a whole new continent. She couldn't help but wonder how she could find herself in some of these situations though. Did she not have an escort, no guards? She was important, was she not? This was a political marriage, why would they risk her safety by letting her get into trouble or wander on her own? "Yes, Hylion is a melting pot of many cultures across Ashvattha. It is the home base of your primary government and it is not uncommon to find people born all over the continent and even the known world in this very city. Our culture and politics are rather complicated, but I assumed it was more or less the same everywhere in this world." She explained, leaning forward to give the girl her undivided attention so long as she kept her interest peaked. "Eh, I must ask, you say you walked here. I do not believe that's possible. There is no land bridge that connects our different continents, surely you mean you took a Bifrost, correct?" She asked, wanting to keep the story straight in her own head, figuring it was just some kind of mistake.

Lumi straightened up once more when Gwen brought up her statement on walking. *Shit! I can't go around saying things like this yet...* She thought to herself. While not lying, she would not tell the full story of it."Oh! Forgive me, I sometimes forget that it is not a common thing. I can actually traverse vast distances with a kind of spatial magic of mine. It's like... How does one describe it? It is like an alternate reality I can travel in. Its not really an exact measurement, but imagine walking one mile in that reality and then jumping back out here, then suddenly you have moved twenty miles. It is a very pretty sight to be there. Its like wandering a place made of pristine nature, hopes and dreams." Lumi replied, hoping that she had given a sufficient answer that didn't sound completely out of this world, no puns intended. "And, as a result, I haven't really needed transport by Bifrost yet."

She had Gwen's attention now, the curious and inquisitive mind that she'd adopted from Alice was firing off alarm bells in her mind. She'd never heard of something besides a Bifrost that could allow for such travel. Even if it was slower, the prospect of basically 'skipping' entire miles was an interesting one. She had a lot of questions, but she bit her tongue, now was far from the time or place for that sort of interrogation.

At that thought, there was a knock on the door, "Enter!" Gwen spoke with a clear and commanding voice before a woman in an apron and a uniform not dissimilar to the butler wheeled in a cart. One the top of the cart were two different kettles, one surely filled with tea and the other with coffee. The two other layers of the cart were filled with sweets and snacks. From cookies and brownies to tarts and mini pies ranging from cherry to peach and pecan. Gwen nearly rolled her eyes at the display, taking an offered coffee, black, but nothing else from the cart. The woman staying and offering Lumi one of the two beverages.

"You're turning out to be an interesting girl, at least as far as wanting to know more about your magic goes. But that can wait, I feel the need to ask a few more questions. Questions such as, what your exact title is in your home country? Why do they wish for this... relationship to take place? And whether or not you are okay with such a relationship in the first place? After all, I am a woman. Doesn't that seem the least bit strange to you? I mean, the head of our main branch is still unwed. Would he not have been a better suitor?" She asked, not in an interrogating way, but more out of curiosity. She wanted to know who Lumi was and why her family was interested in the Vroman family.

Lumi was enthralled with the idea that she needed to make a good impression that she never really felt the apetite for anything, but not wanting to be rude to her hosts, she accepted a cup of yasmine tea and a peach pie slice. At Gwen's continued questioning she proceeded to answer as earnestly as she could. "I have a few titles back home but my most common one is the 'Winter Princess'. The ones touched by the Loa are crowned princesses and princes back in Ungmar, and all of them combined form something of a council. Its mostly formalities these days with few Loa's being active parts of society anymore."

"And why would that be strange? I thought you said same-sex arrangements weren't that uncommon?" She replied, earnestly curious as to her reasoning for calling it strange. "I am a woman too, granted, and I am leaning towards both sexes, but honestly... I more strongly lean towards women. That is one part as to why I picked your branch above his. The other is that I heard of you from various sources and they kind of made you sound, without meaning offense, appealing. My kind can also perform a form of parthenogenesis. We can make children with our partners despite their genders, so there shouldn't be a problem on that front if that is a concern of anyone's. And they want this to happen, mostly on my end, because it is partly customary, but also because they believe it will keep your nations to turn on them so long as the marriage is in effect. To my knowledge that wouldn't bet he case, but it offers them comfort. It is also a surefire way for our nation to begin trusting yours with our own developments."

"I won't say that I am not worried about this, they do afterall ask quite a bit from us, and we don't exactly know eachother enough for most to say that it is a good step on more 'common ground'. But... Our nations need this as far as I can tell and honestly... I am okay with this. You are a beautiful woman, and so far you've been very kind and intriguing. I... I am not opposed to giving it a chance. Though correct me if I am wrong, but with you suspecting a man to arrive and suggesting the other branch... Would I be correct in assuming that you don't like women? While interested, I don't want to cause you discomfort or having you be wed to someone of a gender you do not fancy."

Gwen leaned back in her chair, bring her hand up to her chin and pinching at it with her index finger and thumb as she thought. "No, forgive me if my line of questioning has led you to draw the wrong conclusions. These sorts of marriages are most often done with the hope the two will bare children. I was unaware of your... abilities, and thus I assumed my suitor would be a man. I always knew it would eventually be my duty to bear an heir but frankly, I always hoped that one of my sisters would do it. I am not good with people, I am rash and blunt, traits considered unattractive in women. I have also been called cold on more than one occasion." She explained, picking up her coffee and taking a sip of the hot beverage. Lowering the mug from her lips, she let out a quiet but content sigh. "I am not opposed to you, I'm sorry if I made you feel as though that was the case. I am merely... cautious, for both of our sakes, this is awkward to me. But I suppose that is to be expected as you've already stated." She continued, picking up her book and looking at the front cover of the green book.

"Perhaps it might be best to talk about ourselves a little, for the sake of helping ease the gap between one another without the need for a leap of unjustified faith. "I am Gwen Vroman, aged twenty-one, I have spent the majority of my life training to one day take over the branch family when my father retires. It is not as though I do not enjoy it, but my parents always worried that it would make me a dull and boring person, not unlike miss Alice as you could probably tell when meeting her. Funny enough, sometimes I worry they may have been right." She said before shrugging. "My hobbies include reading, training my magic, calligraphy, yoga, putting together puzzles, and collecting currency from different nations. Be it old or new currency, either is fine. I dislike spicy foods and prefer early spring when it rains the most. I dislike the heat, but I enjoy hot springs." She listed off several things. "Tell me, Miss Raza. Do any of those peak your interest? Is there anything you would like to share about yourself?"

Lumi listened with interest as Gwen talked about herself and her interestes. The training of her magic didn't really strike her as anything special, thinking it rather common. But the rest were of greater interest. Once she was done, Lumi was urged to speak up, a soft smile on her lips. "Sounds very interesting. The name I introduced is Lumi Au Raza, I am nineteen years old, I became a princess at the age of fourteen and have been coveted ever since. I am kind of afraid saying it, but Au Raza is not my real name, even if I belong to that family. Technically Lumi isn't my real name either. It is not a case of me distrusting you or yours, it is just a cultural thing. Princes and Princesses hide their real names until they find someone that they absolutely love or, more importantly, trust. I hope I can tell you it someday. I enjoy autumn and winters the most, for perhaps obvious reasons. I enjoy riding, painting, botany and gardening."

Lumi's tail curled once more, hoping that her statement about her name would not drive the woman away. "There are quite a few interesting things about you, Miss Vroman. I don't really know where to begin... Lets start with your interest with yoga, as that is the one I find most fascinating. What is it about it that is appealing to you?"

Gwen was disappointed that their interests did not match up more, not even their favorite season could be shared between the two. Then there was of course, the name dilemma, how was she meant to care or fall for someone when she could not even know their true name? She did find the idea of Lumi being a princess to be an interesting one, however, she did not know if such a title held more or less weight than she expected to come with such a position. Based on the way she spoke about it, it seemed it was not as high position as such a name might let on. Gwen took another sip of her coffee before speaking up, "Ah, someone who loves plants. It would seem that you and Alice would get along quite well. As for my interest in yoga, if a river flows consistently, it will never stagnate. I feel the same way of the body and the mind. Yoga is a way for me to stay limber and capable of such feats as may be required during my training and beyond. Besides that, I have always been a flexible woman, it would be a shame to allow age to slowly rip away at something I am naturally talented in." She explained, a neigh cocky smirk on her face. "You said you enjoyed painting, tell me, do you have a favorite style or subject in which you enjoy painting? While I do not indulge in such a hobby myself, I learned quite a bit about it growing up. Part of becoming 'culturally literate' as they say."

"Maybe you can show me how to go about it sometime? I haven't tried engaging in it because of other pressing matters, but I would be happy if you would care to show me the ropes." Lumi said, her tail growing less tense for a bit, slowly but surely slacking down. "'Culturally literate?' Wonderful, then mayhaps I can impress with one or two of my works. I am well versed in expressionism, impressionism, and surrealism. However, when I am not occupied with creating 'true art', I tend to draw and paint cartoon images for the little ones. I would like to think that I am quite the artistic mind." She said while taking another sip of her tea and a small bite of her peach pie. "I make art with colors and paper, sure, but I also try to write poems and novels. I've only really managed to produce one book that I feel content with enough to be published however. Its about a more 'fantastic intepretation' of historical events in my country. It's called 'The War on The Other Side'."

*Now we're getting somewhere,* Gwen thought with a look of amusement forming on her face to replace her smirk, understanding that she might enjoy the result of Lumi's hobbies even if she held no interest in participating in them. Still, she was uncomfortable with the idea of not knowing the name of her potential betrothed. Whether it was cultural or not, it made her feel that ever truly trusting Lumi would be a far more difficult path if they were already starting out with secrets. Still, this was something she would deal with later, perhaps speak to Alice or her parents before proceeding with such a line of questioning. "I would love to see your work someday, perhaps have one displayed somewhere in the mansion. I honestly think this place could use a little more flare. Too many portraits of those long past and landscapes of places long since forgotten. This place could a bit of the surreal." She chuckled into her own hand, not wanting to see rude with anything above that. Clearing her throat, she continued, "Perhaps we can make a deal? As I stated before, I am quite into the hobby of reading. I will take the time to show you yoga and in turn, you will allow me to read your book? You see, I happen to enjoy historical fiction. It allows me to trick myself into learning when my brain is done learning for the day. Besides, it may be beneficial to learn of your people if this arrangement is to be carried out in any capacity."

Lumi was getting excited now, though she made an effort to not show it physically. Her smile simply lingered and widened enough to show that she was extra happy with this arrangement. "Sounds like an agreement. I actually have it with me now. One moment." She said as she pulled up her purse, enchanted as to be bigger on the inside. reaching inside, she pulled out a book not too much larger than the one Gwen had been reading previously. Its cover was ash-grey and the letters on it were of golden color as it read the title. "I take this with me wherever I go. I usually read this in order to get more chances to find the small errors or pieces of the book I feel I could have done better. Always a good lesson for the next project. One can always do better, right?" Lumi said, not handing the book over, instead pushing it up to Gwen halfway up the desk, allowing her to pick it up herself if she felt like it. "I really hope you will like it in some capacity. I haven't really been... that successful with it here overseas."

Gwen reached over, sliding the book the rest of the way. She took it into her hand and looked at it as she listened to Lumi speak. "Indeed, but one should always acknowledge when they have done well. Even when they could have done better." She said as she carefully looked over the book. She imagined it was the only copy on the shores of Ashvattha and if not, it was one of few. But more than that, it was a gift from a guest, or perhaps a loan. She would find out once she was done reading it. And read it she will, while it was true that Gwen had not read every book in the family library, she had read most of those that interested her. Something fresh and new was exciting to her, something that was clearly shown in her eyes as she carefully flipped through the first few pages before remembering she was with company. "Oh, yes, I too hope that I can find enjoyment within the pages of your book, Lumi. If I do, I may just be able to convince Miss Alice to help you with getting your book recognized on this continent. It would not be a difficult task, an endorsement, placing a copy in every school and library the Vroman own stock, and donate to. It wouldn't be difficult to convince her either, I am Alice's favorite cousin between my other siblings." Gwen smiled, a softer smile than before. While she was not a writer herself, Gwen could respect the struggles of an author trying to find her place in the world. "Only if that would be okay with you, of course, I wouldn't want to overstep my bounds." She continued, knowing that Lumi might want her book to fail or succeed solely on its own merits.

*Their family have favorites? How does that even work?* Lumi thought to herself while still maintaining her soft expression. *Or maybe Miss Alice was just the exception to that rule?* "I wouldn't object to the help, so long as you actually find it a good read, like you said." Lumi said, looking down at the book in Gwen's hands as if the sight of it would offer her strength. "I also hope that I will prove decent enough company for you in the times to come, Gwen." Lumi said, feeling happy with how the day had gone so far. Then a thought struck her. She hadn't been entirely honest about the name thing, and so she felt the need to give her a reason to keep going. She could feel from across the room that Gwen was a bit ill at ease regarding not knowing her real name. "I... Um... I don't want to impose on such an idea in case you don't approve of it, but... What about this? Regardless of whether you like the book or not, I can tell you my real name and all if you read it to the end?" Lumi suggested, hoping that she didn't make a mistake in saying this right now, as if she was extorting her or something of the like, her cheeks getting a slight tint if pink and her hands clenched firmly to each other. "Or maybe you would rather not?"

Gwen looked at Lumi, then back down to the book. She raised her hand to her chin to ponder the prospect. "You said that keeping your name from me was something having to do with your people and your culture. I would not ask you to break your traditions for the sake of something as trivial as reading a book I intend to read regardless. However, you did say that you could reveal your name when you found someone you truly loved. Well, more importantly, both in your own words and in general, you could also reveal your name to someone you trust. If by the time that I have finished this book, I have found myself claiming either of those two spots. Then, and only then, would I like you to reveal your name to me, Miss Raza. Let it be known to you that I do not take your hidden name as a slight against me or some sort of desire to deceive me. I only wish to know the identity of the woman I am meant to be betrothed to, however, a picture is worth one thousand words and so the flesh must be worth multiple times more. I will learn who you are by getting to know you regardless of the name you go by. First, and only if it is alright with you, as a friend?"

"A friend?" Lumi asked as if to confirm. She smiled widely at that, straightening her back. "I couldn't ask for better for our first encounter. I made this offer for the sake of being a bit accomodating to a respected woman who is not part of our customs. But with your words in mind, I think we can both agree to these conditions." Lumi finished, offering a bow of her head, wanting to show both her appreciation and respect. "Friends is what we will be, and if nothing else, hopefully remain as." She said as she looked up to the clock on the wall behind Gwen. "I think our meeting is nearing towards its end. If there is nothing else that needs to be said, maybe you would like to return to your duties?"

Gwen gave a nod, happy that Lumi was okay with accepting the title as friend. However, when Lumi mentioned the time, Gwen scowled and checked her watch to confirm the time. She let out a quiet sigh, "Yes. It does seem that duty calls. How unfortunate, I was actually beginning to enjoy our time together." She said as she stood up and gave a bow to Lumi. "I thank you for this meeting, I hope that we can do it again at a time that is appropriate for both of us." She finished, returning to her seat and looking down at the cover of the book once more.

Lumi exited the library only to be stopped by a man in a black and white suit. Another servant, one who bowed to her. "Madam Raza, you have been invited by the head of the Vroman's Branch Family to attend a meeting. I was told to inform you that you may refuse if you so desire and I am to offer you quarter in the main family mansion if you do not have other arrangements and should that be your wish."

She was hesitant about accepting the invitation for lodging, but she made the decision to attend the meeting as it might bode well to meet the current head of the household. "I will have to think on the housing but I will attend the meeting." She answered the man with a smile on her face.

"Very good, Madam Raza. Please, right this way." The man spoke before turning and walking down the hall. She was led back down the stairs and down a hall to the right of the foyer until they reached a room at the far end of the hall that was labeled as 'Meeting room'. "It may not be my place to say, Miss Raza. But the mister and misses are very good people, you have nothing to fear from them." He spoke as she opened the door.

The room was much larger than the small library she had just been in. The room was large and open to the outdoors, hundreds of flowers adorned the edge of a walk path that seemed to stretch around the outside of the room like a deck. The room was not filled with chairs or tables, rather, it looked more like a dojo than a meeting room. Cushions sat in a large rectangle stretching from one end of the room to the other. At the far end of the room were two figures, one with bright red hair and another with hair as black as a storm at sea.

The faint whispers of the figures could be heard as they spoke to each other, but what was being said could not be made out. However, it only took a moment before the two noticed the blue girl who had entered the room.

They both stood up from their cushions, the red-haired man stepped forward. He wore a suit of white, gold, and blue. None of which were Vroman colors, rather, the colors of the knights who patrolled the city. "It is a pleasure to finally meet you, Miss Au Raza. I must apologize for not seeing you before you were introduced to our daughter. We had some business to attend to before we could make it to the mansion. He said, motioning to the small child in the hands of the Raven haired woman. "I am Alistair Vroman, and this is my lovely wife, Carwen Vroman." He explained before bow gave a bow in her direction. "Please, take a seat." He said, motioning to the cushion on the floor in front of them. "Then I would like to ask how you are feeling. I hope this environment is not too uncomfortable to you."

Lumi felt slightly intimidated to now stand before the head and lady of the branch family. For but a moment she was concerned that something was wrong. She nodded and took a seat before them, crossing her legs before she began to speak. "I am feeling great, actually. The meeting with Gwen went just about as planned, save for some initial confusion." She said, trying to defuse the tension in her chest with some humor. "It is a pleasure to meet you, sir and miss Vroman. The environment is not what I am used to, but it is none the less quite appealing. Your home is lovely too and your daughter is quite the charm. It has been quite the visit!"

Alistair's features softened as he and his wife took a seat across from Lumi, feeling more at ease upon hearing the casual way in which she spoke. "That is fantastic news indeed, I admit that I had worried your meeting would be awkward given the nature of the situation you've both been placed in. I apologize for the confusion, Gwen was initially not very happy with the arrangement and though she did agree to give it a chance, she would not allow any of us to brief her on what to expect today." Alistair apologized for any confusion that had been caused due to Gwen's lack of information. "She seemed very adamant that she would know what to expect, so I'm sure her expectations were subverted heavily upon seeing you." He chuckled, enjoying a small laugh.

He then cleared his throat, "I am also glad to hear your visit to our country and to our home has gone well, it is a welcome one. The Vroman family is honored to host your stay, and equally honored to have been chosen to help strengthen relations between the people of Ungmar and those of Ashvattha. Regardless of either your or Gwen's choice, I hope that the outcome of this still results in the bonds between our two families being left all the stronger. One can never have too many allies and Valhalla is a continent still fairly new to the people of this continent." He explained, keeping a warm and friendly tone as he tried to talk business. He did not wish to put her ill at ease by being too overly formal, or to disrespect her by being too casual. "Something that was brought to my attention by the head of the main family is that you reached our estate by yourself. Did something happen on your journey? We had expected such an important diplomat to arrive with retainers, or guards at the very least."

Lumi nodded happily at his concerns. "Nothing happened. I consider myself strong enough to travel alone, even in foreign lands. Besides, they would not have been able to follow me the way I came." Lumi said with a playful shrug, thankful that their approach was not too professinal. "The road I walked is-"

"Walked?" Carwen interjected, surprise in her voice. "There is no way that you managed to walk all the way over here, is there? Or do you refer to a more 'metaphorical' road?"

"Gwen actually asked me the same. I did indeed walk here. Not across the ocean of course, but rather from an alternate realm that reflects this one. A trip of twenty meters could turn out like a four-hundred meters walk if I return here. It is quite relaxing, and an easier way to travel." Lumi explained. "The Argent Arboreali is a spectacular place. I considered maybe taking Gwen there sometime, if she is up for it." She said calmly and carelessly until she saw the look on Carwen's face. Her eyes were wide, and her skin seemed almost a bit extra pale. "Ma'am? Is everything well?"

Carwen seemed to soften at the question, smiling once more. "Yes, of course. The idea of a different realm for travel just seemed so... Out of this world that it took some time to wrap my head around it. It sounds very interesting. I really do hope that you and our dear Gwen can figure something out. You seem like quite the lady, Miss Lumi." Carwen said, still feeling uneasy in her soul. Lumi nodded happily at her praise. "Thank you, Mrs Carwen. I am leaning towards similar hopes. I can not wait to see how everything plays out, so to speak."

Alistair wished to rebut the idea of anyone being strong enough to travel alone through wholly new territory, but at her mention of simply walking through realms, he bit his tongue. He brought a finger up to cover his lip as he thought. *That sounds impossible...* He'd thought as he'd never in all his years encountered a magic that would simply allow one to walk through entire realms like a brief morning walk. It made him worry about the exact nature of Lumi's people and what power they might hold. More than that, however, he worried for Gwen's safety. She had a sharp and brutal tongue when she wanted to. *Should Lumi take offense...* He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. Clearing his throat, he spoke up, "Indeed, having someone at our daughter's side strong enough to keep her safe is a father's dream. I hope that things can go well between the two of you. Gwen can be difficult and she is slow to trust others, but I am glad to hear that your first interaction went as well as one might expect. If you do not mind my asking, how is it that you broke through her shell? It can be difficult for even myself to do at times."

Lumi put a finger to her chin as she recollected her encounter. "I think it was through our joint interest in magic, art and literature. I gave her the book of my own making to read for a while. I don't know how long it will last for her however. She seems like something of a bookworm, so it might be completed a bit quicker than I may anticipate."

"What is the book about?" Carwen asked simply, holding their son close to her as he was starting to get a bit restless.

"It's a more creatively liberate retelling of our history's events. It's called "The War on The Other Side". I feel quite proud of it. Its the only work of mine that I have felt properly content with to publish. I don't know if she'll like it, but I hope she can find some entertainment through it. She also seemed very interested in my realm travel. Maybe I just got through to her by introducing rare concepts but... I'll take it if that is what it takes to get close to her."

"Ah, that makes sense. Gwen has always been an inquisitive minded child, though, I suppose young woman would be the proper term now." He said with a melancholic smile as though a bit sad that most of his children were already so grown. "Still, that is quite impressive. Both your magic and your book. It seems that you are quite the warrior poet, I chased that title in my younger years as well." He explained before turning to his wife, "That is, until I found my princess." He stated with a warm but suppressed snicker as she gently brushed a strand of hair behind the ear of his beloved with a look that could not be described as anything but pure love and admiration. A content look on his face as he turned back to Lumi, "It does my heart good to know that you have given our daughter something to latch onto. She may only be interested in your magic and your book at the moment. But I'm sure you will grow on her for more than what you have to offer her mind." He praised the girl for piquing the interest of his daughter. "I must ask do you intend to stay with us during your trip here or will you be... uh, 'walking' home? I assure you that arrangements for your stay would not be difficult to take care of if that is what you wish. We would not be very hospitable hosts if we did not offer you lodgings."

"I would gladly acccept your offer! It's just..." Lumi trailed off as she pondered a certain prospect. "Do you think Gwen would approve? I don't want to impose on her or you if she-"

"Nonsense!" Carwen interjected. "If you are worried that she will want to keep some distance, then you've already taken one step closer to failure. If you want someone in your life, you must aspire for it and do everything to get closer to them. Its kind of you to consider her feelings as such, but it won't be like you will be moving in to her room anytime soon. Close enough to push a bit on those barriers but distant enough to show respect. Please, we insist." Carwen said softly and smiling.

"Well... When you put it like that... I'll accept!" Lumi said cheerfully. "I do want her to like me, and I'll take you up on your experienced advice. I just hope she won't be angry with this decision."

"I'm sure she won't. Maybe a bit taken back and reserved, but that wouldn't be anything new." Carwen returned. "I hope that you will enjoy your stay with us. If there is anything we can do to accomodate you during your time here, just be sure to let us all know, okay?"

"Well, I would like the chance to have a room that can get a bit more chilly. I prefer things a bit cold afterall, so I hope that you won't find issues with that? I can use an ordinary room, it is just a slight preference."

Alistair let out a huff of air from his nose at Carwen's display, not at all surprised by her passion. It was, after all, a contributing factor as to why he was initially attracted to her in the first place. "We will place you in a room with its own heating and air in it. They're normally used for some of the older members of the family when they visit, but with their temperature control, I believe they will fit your needs. We look forward to your stay with us in the Vroman household, never hesitate to tell us or our staff of anything you need." He said before getting up from his seat and taking a step toward Lumi with an extended hand. Both an offer to help her up and one to shake her hand. "It has been an immense pleasure to finally meet you in person, Miss Raza, and I thank you for meeting with us today. I only wish that we could speak longer, but I am afraid that even matters as important to my heart as this must fit within a time slot. But I'm sure that you're quite aware of that sort of thing already."

Lumi nodded. "Of course I do. You may be a bit more professional here than back at home, but it is not unfamiliar to me. I'll take my leave and not impose on you any further. I wish you a good day, Lord and Lady Vroman. If you want anything of me, please do tell. 'Tis the least I could do to return your hospitality."

"Think nothing of it, we are just glad to have you with us, Lumi." Carwen said with a bow, to which Lumi curtesied and took her leave, greeted by a maid just outside who escorted her away. "...Argent Arboreali" Carwen muttered, something which caught Alistair's notice. She turned to face him. "Argent Arboreali... I can't sense malice in her, so I don't think she means harm, but... My father spoke of that grove many times before and upon his deathbed. He refered to it as his afterlife..."

Alistair raised an eyebrow toward his wife, taking a moment to think. "That is... concerning. But how would your father and a country an entire continent apart know of the same place? Besides, your father said many things in the stories you told me. Many disturbing things. Still, I do not think we should ignore this. There's one other thing that has me a bit perplexed..." He said as he looked down at his hand, "Her skin was as cold as ice. Like a frozen corpse." He explained with a concerned tone as he looked back up to his wife.

## A Dragons lair

Gwen sat out on the back deck of the mansion, overlooking a small pond filled with fish, turtles, and plants alike. The ash gray book in her hand as she read over the pages with clear intrigue on her face. A mug of coffee on the small table beside her as the orange hue of the sun peaked over the walls that surrounded the estate.

Lumi had woken up not too long ago, quickly brushing her hair and preparing her outfit as to not appear like a lazy sleeze her first morning in the estate. The moment she had stepped out of her chilly room she was greeted by a collection of maids and butlers who inquired if there was anything she was in need of. It was clear to her that they were trying to appease her and make her feel at home, but she also felt that it was slightly overwhelming, grateful as she was.

After being served a tray of breakfast consisting of croissants, tea and jam, she took it and walked along the hallways until she eventually reached the mansion garden. Its pond and animals that roamed the waters was quite appealing and calming. Walking out into the garden grounds, she looked around for a good spot to sit down at when she caught a glance at Gwen above her. "My lady!" Lumi called out to her betrothed. "Good morning! How goes the reading?"

Were it not for the voice that she was quickly becoming familiar with, Gwen would have ignored the call as one for someone other than her. After all, the staff knew to not disturb her in the morning while she sat out on the deck. She was equal parts surprised and having expected something like this to happen but she had still been unprepared for it all the same. She looked over the railing of the deck to see none other than Lumi walking around in the gardens below her. She closed the book and got to her feet before walking down the steps into the garden. "Ah, Miss Raza, a fine morning to you as well. I must say that this meeting is pleasant, if rather unexpected. I take it Alice or my parents offered you lodgings at the estate? That's the only logical conclusion unless you used that fancy magic of yours to get past the walls and guards?" Gwen teased with a mischievous playfulness in her tone. "As for the reading, it goes well. I had to be convinced by a maid to sit it down and return to my chambers last night. I had just picked it back up when you greeted me."

The playful tone did not pass Lumi unnoticed. "Well, if I really wanted to, I suppose no guard could keep me from entering. At least at a base level. But yes, your family offered me at least a temporary home in your mansion. What's more, let me apologize for interrupting your reading session. I want to say that I didn't want to interrupt your reading, but that would be something of a lie." Lumi joked. "If it is not too much to ask, I would like to spend a bit of time with you. Maybe you would like to talk a bit about what you've read? Or maybe you'd do something else?"

Gwen considered the prospect of entertaining Lumi's desire for her time. While it was true that she preferred to spend her mornings with minimal interaction, avoiding the girl would do her no good. Besides, if Lumi was staying at the mansion for an undetermined amount of time, mornings would be the best time for the two to interact. As the majority of the afternoon was spent working on the responsibilities her father entrusted her with. Mostly in the form of paperwork and studying. "Perhaps, I am not opposed to spending this morning with you if you so desire. As for speaking of your book, yes, that does interest me. It has been a fascinating read, you said this was a historical fiction. Tell me, is the partial pantheon listed in these first couple of chapters reflective of the primary religion of your culture? Or perhaps, rather, a long lost one? Or maybe even, a creation of your own?" She asked, her speech becoming a bit faster as she continued speaking. A clear interest in the topic in her voice before she caught and recomposed herself.

"Thank you Gwen! I won't make you regret your choice." Lumi brightened up at her questioning. It was the Most response and interest she had received since coming here. "They represent the religion of Ungmar as It was and is. We dont really know what the Loa or historical figures thought of things as they progressed, so on that front for one is a thing I have more or less embelished." Lumi explained. "The Loa have not been that interractive with my people as of late, however."

"Don't mention it, and see to it that you don't." She said in reference to Lumi's first statement. Reaching up, she tightened the tie wrapped around her own neck, "You did a good job on portraying the thoughts and reasonings of these beings. I can't say I've ever cared much for the squabbles of Godly entities in fiction or in real life. However, your writing keeps them interesting even if I often find their struggles difficult to relate to. Still, it is early in the story, anything could change in any direction." She continued as they began to walk around the edge of the pond, keeping herself composed, she would not allow another outburst regardless of her intrigue. "As of late? I imagine they must have done so on a regular basis before recently then. Tell me, do you have any theories as to why they have gone silent? Or perhaps your priesthood or scholars may have an idea? Were you the last they interacted with? You did say you were touched by the Loa, yes?"

Lumi felt a bit intimidated by her request of 'see to it that you don't', but she moved on like nothing, her tail swatting the air softly as she continued to explain, happy to see that she could be a bit more energetic behind that mask of indifference. "I more or less mean 'as of late' as in perspective to our history so well as the view from a Loa's point of view. It was centuries, close to a millenia ago, that they stopped being interractive with our society anymore. They can still reach out to us from beyond and touch the people, but they cannot directly affect the world anymore." Lumi explained as she sat herself down on the grass and started to eat her breakfast in small bites as to not impede her speech too much. "The book explains it a bit further in towards the end, and I'd like to not spoil it for you. Would feel a bit rude." She said as she sipped her tea. "And yes, while touched, it wasn't like there was a conversation between the loa and the royalty. It is more that you wake up in the night feeling weird and then you just have the marks to become a princess or prince. I'd still say that I am the most important of the bunch, though. Don't tell anyone I said that, however. The other royal ones are not keen on being told they are inferior." She said as a joke. "While there also are a collection of priests, or vodouists that worship and tries to commune with their Loas, there isn't really an organization around it. Imagine that every priest from any of your religions had such different ideas and way of worship that it becomes impossible to keep a single creed to follow."

"Yes, I very much would like to avoid spoilers if possible. Though, I suppose that means I will need to continue reading to have many of my questions answered." Gwen said, looking down at the book in her hand before holding it at her side once more. "An Ah, I had imagined that being touched by the Loa was something that happened from birth. Like a birthright placed upon you. Not unlike being born the first child of a noble family, but I suppose I made my guess from a place of ignorance." She continued, her feet moving a bit as though trying to decide whether to sit down with Lumi or not. Gwen did not wish to ruin her suit with stains but she knew that some found it uncomfortable when someone stood over them. So, Gwen chose to compromise by squatting down and pulling her knees to her chest. It wasn't uncomfortable, but it was rare that she did this as it wasn't very professional or one to do. "So you're saying I got the best of the bunch?" She asked, in reference to Lumi making the joking claim to be the most important of those touched by the Loa. "That is good, I don't consider myself the type to settle for less than the best." She smirked, a partial jest.

The hesitation to sit down did not go unnoticed by Lumi. She sat herself up, making sure to see if there was any stains on her attire, to which there luckily wasn't. With a smile she waved one of her hands as she spoke: "I figured you might want that. Someone as incredible as you deserves nothing but the best." She said, and by the time the sentence was finished, she had conjured forth two chairs and a table that were seemingly made out of some sort of purple, shimmering clouds. "And the best is what I will provide." Lumi said confidently. "Is this better to your liking?" She asked as she put the tray down on the table and sat herself down on one of the chairs. "No need to spoil your wonderful attire, now is there?"

Gwen's eyes narrowed as Lumi turned to take a seat at the newly conjured table, she was unaware what the girl was doing. Whether it was flirting or flattery, she did not know. Gwen was not a fan of flattery, she'd seen more than enough of it in her time. People who wished to get close to her not because they enjoyed her company but rather to get close to her family and the status they held. She proceeded with caution, both for the sake of herself and because Lumi's spectacle was one that she did not expect. First, the ability to walk across realms like it was nothing and then, conjuring items out of thin air, what else was the girl capable of? She raised herself from her squat and took the offered seat at the table. "Thank you for your concern. I must say, you are certainly full of surprises, Miss Raza. Tell me, are there any other tricks up your sleeves that I should know about?" She asked, keeping her face nutrual as to not give away whatever the motive behind her question might be.

Lumi took a bite out of her food before answering Gwen's question. "I hope that they are pleasant surprises at least. And any other tricks?" Lumi asked aloud as she pondered the question. "Well, my Primordial Dream Magic allows me to manifest the images in my mind into reality for a short period, as you can see right now. I can create localized winters if I really want to with my Blackfrost Magic. And as someone with Loa blessings, can do things outside of my typical 'power range', as long as I strike some sort of bargain to make it happen. Example; You ask me to give you ancient knowledge. That would be beyond me. But if you make a bargain with me and give me something equally worth or better than that, I can push that to giving it to you." She explained softly, sipping on her fruit tea again. "I can also give you a pleasant dream for when you go to bed tonight if you'd like that too?" She said, a sincere and joking tone in her voice, making it as clear as possible that the suggestion was a joke. "I also have a question later when you feel your curiosity has been satisfied."

*"Primordial magic? What is that? Is it anything like my Primal light magic? I've never heard of a primal magic capable of such a feat. Only Blessings and Curses..."* Gwen thought to herself as she raised the back of her hand up to rest her chin on, her elbow sitting on the table, though, she hoped that Lumi would not mind. "Oh, no, I assure you my waking life is far better than any dream you could produce." She fired back with a joke of her own, not wanting to sour the mood as the gears in her head turned. She was still deciding what to think of Lumi, though she sensed no malice or ill intent in the girl, she couldn't very well ignore her abilities as anything but mysterious. She certainly hoped that it was simply the culture shock of meeting a new race of people. "Please, don't hesitate to ask me anything. I'm as open as a book, I would hate to make you feel as though you're being interrogated. The very fact that you felt the need to ask if you may question me at all makes me feel I have failed to be as hospitable to you as I should be as an honored guest in our household and my betrothed."

Lumi smiled warmly. "You haven't. Failed that is." She said simply. "I just consider it a kind thing to ask for permission in my own personal liking. I suppose I could have gone for a more demanding approach, but I don't think either of us would have liked that." She joked. Taking a bisquit in her hand she took a bite out of it, the crisp feeling in her mouth felt divine. "What's more... Not that I don't appreciate your words, Gwen, but I thought we agreed with your words that we would take it slow with the talks of engagements, relationships and being betrothed? We are going for friends first still, yes?"

Lumi pushed her tray further up the table, only within arms reach of Gwen in case that she fancied anything from it. "So then, since you have so kindly offered, I would like to ask a bit about your family, if I may be so crass." She asked, her tail curling as she felt unsure of whether this was a good idea or not. But she still pressed on. "More specifically on your end. You are the oldest of triplets if I remember right. Now... I won't claim to be a great people person. At least when it comes to social ques. I have leaned a bit too much on older tricks which made me progressively incompetent on that front. Your D-... Sorry, your father. I got the impression that maybe things are slightly strained between you? Or am I mistaken?" She asked cautiously. "I don't mean to intrude if you'd rather not, I was just thinking that whether friend or betrothed, that it might be a thing one could talk about for a bit, if for no other reason than to get more understanding of the other." Lumi said, her tail like a bundle of tightstrung rope now with how hard it was curled. "I can always answer something equally personal if you want later. I just... I want to know more about you, Gwen. But I understand if I am overstepping here."

"Of course, I apologize if my use of the word betrothed offended you. I meant it more as the official term for what it is that we are rather than any profession of feelings or desires. While we have the final say in whether or not we remain that, we are currently, as far as our official relationship stands, betrothed to one another. As far as within my own eyes, and hopefully your own, we are friends." Gwen stated, explaining her usage of the word despite their agreement. "However, in regards to my father..." She started but trailed off a little as she looked to their side at the purple orchids.

She then learned her throat before turning back to Lumi, "I do not think that strained is the right word. At least, not on my end that is. My father is a kind man, too kind in my eyes. I believe that he feels guilty that I have turned out the way that I am. He worries he pushed me too hard, that he didn't let me act like a child growing up, that he let me spend too much time with Alice and thus I have become more like her than either of my parents. But I do not believe that he is right in that regard. My sense of honor and duty comes from him, my sharp tongue and quick wits comes from my mother, all that I have gotten from Alice is knowledge and the ability to keep a straight and apathetic face regardless of the situation I find myself in." He said before taking a deep breath and let out a sigh. "I should not say these things to you, you have no right to hear them and I have no reason to confide in you. But yet I will with the confidence that what I say will never reach the ears of another soul because I do not believe that you would betray my trust. You seem too honest a person to stab me in the back, but perhaps I am merely seeing what I want to see..." She trailed off again before she looked Lumi directly in the eyes. "Sometimes I wonder if my father is disappointed in who I have become. Not just him, but my mother as well. I know that I may come off as cold, possibly even inhuman at times. But I am human, and I do have feelings, and I am the way I am because I do not want those feelings to see me taken advantage of." She explained, leaning back in her chair and shaking her head. "I do not know how father does it, how you can do it. How can you both so confidently show your feelings? Don't you know how important you are? How everything you say and do will reflect back onto you and your family? What if you mess up? What if you say something stupid? Would it not be easier to wear a mask of indifference?"

"No." Lumi said simply, as if it as just so obvious. "I am important. And I have messed up. I have worn that mask. A mask to shield myself from the disappointment of others, my own shame and the consequences. Then I just learned something. The consequences of my actions didn't change at all. I just shielded myself. And by shielding myself, I was never really happy with anything in my life."

"Do not get me wrong Gwen, I am not here saying that this is a reflection of you. It is just me and my experiences. How can I do it? Because I would be miserable otherwise. Maybe I wore the mask wrong or too tight, but it didn't do it for me. I have been a disappointment to those around me. I've failed. I have screwed things over both while open as now or withdrawn as back then. I just figured I could at least take some moments to be happy about myself. And on the topic of consequences, ask this; if I had been anyless me than I am, do you think I would have stayed after those initial words of yours? Probably not, but I am kind enough to understand an honest mistake when I see one. But had I been different, had it been anyone else, that deal would have been off. Our nations wouldn't have their pact, and all of that would have been on you. And I don't think you could have found any mask that would hide that shame."

"And I don't think your parents are disappointed. Frankly, I think they are proud of who you are. You have a strong character. Not everyone can boast that. They love you, and that I can say for a fact. I think they might just be a bit worried. Worried that you might not be as happy as they'd wish you'd be. And from what they told me, you don't seem that open with them about it. So if you are indeed happy, how are they to know that and stop worrying?" Lumi explained, feeling like a weight was being lifted. "Again, don't think that I am trying to put words in your mouth. I am just explaining myself as you asked about it. And as I said. You have my word. None of this will ever leave this garden. Unless the fish start learning how to speak." Lumi said, trying to defuse the tension. "I am kind of wondering why you think that people would use your openess if you were to be that way. Sounds almost like experience over paranoia. But i won't ask further about it. Regardless as friend or wife, I want to be able to help. Thats what one does isn't it? I am terribly sorry if I sound patronizing, its just... I want to help you. Even if not now, even if my words here are utterly irrelevant... I still want to help you. I still want to be part of your life and add to it."

Lumi's words bit deeply, perhaps more so than even she may have meant for them to. A clear pained expression of Gwen's face as the Princess spoke of how easily she could have ruined everything upon their first meeting. Were Gwen a more arrogant or prideful woman, she could have taken Lumi's words as a personal slight against her, an insult of the highest degree to be called out in such a way. But Gwen was no fool and she knew that Lumi spoke more truth than Gwen had heard from another person in quite a long time. However, Gwen did not sink away or try to make herself look smaller. Despite the embarrassment and shame that came from the words that Lumi spoke she sat up straight and took them head-on. Once Lumi was done speaking, a silence fell between them only broken by the croak of a frog every now and again. Gwen considered what to say, would she defend herself against Lumi's accusations? Would she agree with her estimation of the situation? She let out air from her nose, a sigh as she tried to figure out her next move. She'd never been so caught off guard by someone before, Lumi's words had cut her deep and yet they'd warmed her heart all the same. "Lumi..." She started before the sound of a grandfather clock in the distance interrupted her train of thought. "I am afraid that we are out of time for now but... You have given me much to think about." She said as she got up from the chair and turned toward the mansion. "You are a kind heart, Lumi. Frankly, I believe it is wasted on me. But it is not my place to decide what you do with your time or energy. That said, I would be honored if you joined me for dinner in the dining hall tonight at six-thirty sharp?" She asked before her breath hitched, "Oh, and thank you, for spending this morning with me. All things considered, it was not... unpleasant."

"Not at all." Lumi said in response to Gwen's statement that her kindness was wasted on her. "I believe in doing good by others, even if they don't appreciate it. As for dinner, I am surprised but also grateful for the offer. I do not want to push your hospitality, but can it be arranged that I am escorted by a maid or butler to the hall? I am not that familiar with the mansion yet to find my way without some assistance." She requested. Her tail at long last fell limp to the ground, finally feeling at ease. "Will anyone else attend the dinner beyond you? I am asking so that I know just how well I need to dress for the occasion."

"You are pushing nothing, it would do neither of us any good to avoid one another and meals just happen to be the most opportune time to see one another at the moment. I apologize if that is an inconvenience to you, but I will not be truly free until Sunday when I will have a day off from my duties." She explained, keeping her back turned to Lumi as she spoke, "as for who will be attending... I imagine it will be just the two of us. But it is not uncommon for a family member to join every now and again. I will have a maid come get you when it is time. Until then, feel free to explore the property at your leisure. If you find yourself somewhere you are not supposed to be, someone will let you know. Good day," Gwen said before walking away and back into the mansion.

## Dinner for two

Gwen sat at the head of a large dining table, far larger than any normal-sized table had any right to be. Several seats lined the table from end to end up only two places had been set. She was tired and frankly a bit exhausted, her conversation with Lumi that morning that made it difficult for her to concentrate on her duties. Before her lied what they would be having for dinner, pineapple baked salmon with white rice and a side of tomato basil, garlic soup. A cart off to the side held dessert that would later replace the dishes on the table. Gwen was not the type for such displays. Thee home she was raised in had been a humble one. But she was not opposed to this sort of treatment every now and again. Gwen looked at her watch, her eye moving between it and the door as the clock ticked toward the time Lumi was meant to arrive.

Lumi came marching down the hallway, the maid ahead of her as a guide to the dining hall. The maid had honestly been hesitant at first, not because of any doubt or similar factor, but rather that Lumi had asked to be escorted earlier than the appointed timeframe. There was two reasons for this. The first being that she had finished preparing herself ahead of time, thinking that she might be able to surprise Gwen a bit. Her hair was tied back with a selection of hair pins that the maids had helped her pick out. Her eyes were framed by her elegant lashes and her brows had been picked to nigh perfection. She had put on lip balm that was a ever so slightly darker shaded than her normal skin, putting a bit of emphasis on them.

From her ears hung a pair of emerald earrings and she was clad in a fair dress of red, much like the traditional Vroman hair and colors. She felt a bit... uneasy with this dress. The family had approached her with this as suggestion for attire in an attempt to impress her would-be-bride. The dress had been adapted to accomodate her tail and been refitted to hug her body just right, even offering a bit of extra support to her chest. She was grateful but... She worried that it might be a bit much for either of them. She just didn't have the stomach to refuse.

Now standing before the door to enter the dining hall, she took a breath of relief as she looked up at the clock, stating that it was about a minute and a half left until she was meant to be there. Thinking that she might surprise Gwen with being timely, she stepped inside to await her arrival. This more or less backfired on her as shed saw that Gwen was already present. With wide eyes she immeditately felt embarrased, hoping that she would have had some time to grow accustomed to her clothes before she came. That plan was now officially out the window. Straightening her back, which only made her feel more embarrased as her upper body became more prominent, she made a small bow to Gwen. "I am sorry! I thought I could be a bit earlier for you. Seems like I missed my shot." She jokingly said until she noticed the tired look in Gwen's eyes. Feeling that she might be overstepping with both her presence and dress now, she meekly asked: "I hope... I hope this isn't too much." She asked in reference to her attire.

"Tch" Was the first sound to escape Gwen's mouth upon seeing Lumi enter the room wearing the colors of the Vroman family. She wanted to demand what the deal was, but she bit her tongue, knowing that yelling at the girl would get them nowhere either of them wanted to be. She smiled instead, a clearly fake smile masking the frustration beneath it but it was better than putting on a scowl. "I believe it personally best to arrive at any meeting or gathering at least ten minutes before the scheduled time. But I commend you for attempting to arrive early, most others would have taken six-thirty as law since that is the way that I phrased it when inviting you." Gwen said as she rose from her seat and moved to the seat closest to her own, pulling it out and inviting Lumi to take a seat. Once the girl had taken the offered chair, Gwen pushed her in and moved back to her own chair diagonal to Lumi. It was closer than sitting across from one another but easier to talk than sitting side by side.

Gwen placed a finger atop her wine glass half filled with water, circling around it and producing a pretty sound. "I must say, you got all dolled up, very pretty. If I did not know any better, I would believe this was a date and it was I who came underdressed." Gwen complimented Lumi on her looks, a genuine compliment but one would not be faulted for thinking otherwise as her voice held a slight hiss in it as she spoke. "That said, and while I am indeed impressed by your willingness to arrive early... I must say that your choice of attire is interesting. Did you pick it out yourself?" She asked before pulling her finger off the glass and letting silence fall over the room for a moment. "Or perhaps you were told to wear it for some reason? Ma-" An accusatory tone in her voice and it was clear she had more to say but had stopped herself.

Lumi's smile faltered rather quickly. Even quicker than when Gwen had dismissed her earlier. Taking her seat, she knew fully well that there was more on Gwen's mind. After a bit of silence, Lumi steeled herself as she began to talk. "Continue..?" Lumi asked, trailing off. Catching Gwen's attention with this, Lumi kept up question. "I appreciate your compliments, but all the same, I feel that I have offended you. If I have, then I would like to know how so I can make amends. If I haven't, then I would like to know what has caused such a response from you." Lumi said.

Thinking back on the words Gwen had said earlier, as if to find a clue there, she then remembered something that might explain it. She looked down on her clothes and remembered the make-up she had put on in preparation for this. "If I may guess... I suppose I scream a bit much of, 'court me already'?" She said with a tone of humor, but it was not long lasting. "I'm... I'm sorry if that is the case. I... I did get 'help' with the attire. I accepted it in order to not appear rude and with the suspicion that more of them might come. Forgive me if I am trying too hard. I just want to make a good impression on everyone." She muttered as she took the pins in her hair and pulled them out, letting her hair fall a bit more carelessly down her shoulders, ruffling the back of it and parting her bangs.

Gwen gave the girl a side-eye, judging how to respond to her and whether or not she was telling the truth. After a moment, she let out a sigh and turned to face Lumi face to face. "Offended? Yes, but it appears that perhaps it is not you who has offended me." Gwen said, slumping back in her chair, her elbow on the armrest and her chin resting on her knuckles. "I understand the desire to make a good impression. It is one that anyone would like to make, especially in this situation. It isn't as though I think you're trying too hard, but rather that someone else wants you to try harder." Gwen explained, letting out another sigh as she looked over to Lumi. Her lips curled into a half-smile, still frustrated that someone put her up to this but happy that it was not Lumi who tried to pull some cheap trick like this. "I didn't mind the hair..." She said before pushing herself to sit back up properly in her chair. "But the dress, the earrings. I could tell that you weren't the one to pick them out, but I worried you may have been part of the plot to use them to garner my affection. I must know which of my family members asked you to wear the dress, will you tell me?" She asked, a sincere look in her ruby red eyes as she asked for the information.

Lumi understood it now. It was indeed the way she had presented herself. "Well... It is the least I can do to make amends for the... insult. I didn't mean to come here looking like a hot piece of meat. I just thought it was the right approach... I... I will admit that I don't like telling you this since I have feeling there will be conflict because of this, but... Carwen... Was the primary instigator. Your sister Triss was there to offer the dress, but how into the idea she was I can't really say. I am sure they all mean well, but I understand that you feel imposed on over this." She said as she gestured over herself. Lumi looked back at Gwen, a sincere glimmer in her eye as she spoke: "Will you forgive me?"

*"Mother?! Of course, Mother! How could she? What right does she think she has?!"* Gwen thought, her face barely holding straight as she avoided letting it scrunch into one of anger and hurt. Seeing the look and Lumi's eyes, she looked away from it, "Yes. We are both the victims of this plot. If you were unaware then there is nothing that must be forgiven. Not by you anyhow." She said, before gritting her teeth. "But mother will hear no end of this..." She murmured under her breath before turning her attention back to Lumi. "I think you misunderstand, Miss Raza. It is not that you looked like... uh, a 'hot piece of meat' as you phrased it, at least that wasn't all of it. But rather, the fact that they saw fit to interfere at all. Not only that, but they saw to dress you up in the colors of my family like that would somehow impress me? That's why I'd thought it was Alice. She's as dull as a hammer when it comes to anything like this. But mother? Triss? What sort of reaction did they expect from me? Our family isn't some piece of cloth or a duo of colors..." Gwen spoke with clear disappointment in her voice, her head shaking from side to side.

She took a deep breath, not wanting to continue to unload her feelings onto Lumi like this. "Besides, Red isn't your color. Perhaps if they'd made the dress green then yes... but not the Vroman green. Perhaps something lighter? Still, I think that white would fit you best, maybe a powder or fairy blue? Yes, I think that would fit you nicely. Wouldn't you agree?"

Lumi brightened up slightly, hampered by the knowledge that there was gonna be hell to pay for someone later down the line. "I think we can agree on that. I do have a few of those, if not a green one. White and blue are the Raza colors. Even so, I do have another dress that is peachy. Perfect for when I don't want to blend into the snowbeds." She once more finished with a joke. With a breath to her glass of water, chilling it ever so slightly, Lumi brought the liquid to her lips to drink. It was refreshing, especially now. She looked down to the meal on the table and turned back to Gwen. "I hope my display hasn't entirely killed your appetite?"

Gwen grinned at her joke, before looking at the food on the table. "No, though, had I not skipped lunch to keep up with work then I'm afraid it might have." She explained, trying to shake away the stress and exhaustion from the day to enjoy dinner. She turned her eyes back to Lumi, "Blue and white are your family's colors? Yes, fitting for the Winter Princess. I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. Shall we begin dinner? I would hate for it to go cold. Do you perhaps say grace or some other sort of thank you to the Gods before eating? I mean no disrespect by asking, only assuming based on your culture's heavy focus on their religious aspects."

"Oh! That is very considerate of you, Gwen. As for grace, um... It vastly depends on the district, family and Loa. My Loa spirit is a very... I don't know the word I am looking for, but the parting words of my Loa Spirit to my family and people was: 'Do not ask, do not beg, do not plead. You cry for strength and gifts which are already yours. Now take it. I have already given you all you need.'" Lumi quoted. "Maybe a bit strange, but my family believe that there is no need to say thanks more than once to her. While you can say grace more than once in your life, it is not something she demands. She gave us A gift, and you don't need to say thanks for a gift more than once. It can be appreciated, but not a must. So... I say we just dig in before it gets even colder!" Lumi said before taking up the untensils and starting to eat. Her movements were graceful, a bi-product of her many years of training in nobility. "Unless it is too private a thing to ask, what have you been working with today?"

Gwen nodded, "I think I like your Loa..." She said before eating. Her manners were not as refined as Lumi's not to say she at like a wild animal. But the hunger from skipping lunch gave an eagerness to her bites that not even she could hide. At Lumi's question, Gwen washed down her food with a sip of water before using a napkin to wipe her mouth. "Mostly paperwork, finances for the many organizations we do business with. However, I did attend a meeting alongside Alice today. We met with a man who wished to procure more funds for the school he was the headmaster of. The bast- The man played up a sob story about how the school children going without. But that's the thing, why were they going without? We'd just increased their budget last year according to the paperwork. We refused his plea and we'll be having the board look into where all that money is going. The pig is probably stuffing his pockets, that money has to be going somewhere other than the school." Gwen explained before taking a bite of her salmon. "What of your day, Miss Raza? Are you enjoying your time here in the estate?"

Lumi listened attentively to Gwen's story, a wide smile on her face when she had said that she approved of her spirit. "So likely a fraud then. I can only assume there will be heavy consequences for lying to you if he is found guilty of these accusations." She said, cutting up some of the salmon together with the rice and some lemon zest and popping it into her mouth to be eaten. It was delicious, as so many other things under the Vroman roof. She was glad that they were past the initial awkwardness. But something was still on her mind. "Is papework and morons usually this tiresome? Was there maybe more than the usual of it today?"

"I imagine so, one does not bite the hand that feeds them and get off lightly. Especially not in the world of business. If it comes back that he is indeed pocketing the funds then he'll be fired, fined, charged, and even if he manages to get off with a slap on the wrist the likelihood he'll ever work in this field again is beyond slim to none." Gen explained, she ignored Lumi's question for a moment, taking another sip of her water before sitting it back down onto the table. She did not know if she liked or disliked how perceptive her new friend was, it was nice that she could pick up on the little things but it made it annoying when she tried to hide something. "Have you ever dealt with morons? They're quite the tiring bunch to work with. Like trying to argue with a baboon taught only to tell lies and then cry when it is called out on it." She spoke, her voice carrying a clear annoyance in it. But she then let out a quiet sigh and shook her head. "But no, they are not the sole cause for my weariness this evening."

Gwen reached up her hand and snapped her fingers, a man immediately approaching. "Bring me a bottle of wine, the Invicta strawberry from Paradisio." She said before the man leaned down and whispered in her ear. "What of it? I'll get her a new bottle, just bring it to me." She commanded.

"Yes, Ma'am." The man said before hastily leaving the room.

"That should keep him busy for a bit." She smirked, having only ordered the wine so that the two could be truly and well alone. "Our conversation this morning got me thinking quite a bit. It made it difficult to concentrate on the tasks at hand. I do not blame you for this, but you asked what the cause of my tried appearance was and that is it." She explained, taking another bite of her food and chewing it. Wiping her mouth once more, she continued, "I still do not know what to do about your words. Should I take them to heart? Should I dismiss them? I am unsure. Of a lot of different things, but only what we spoke about this morning concerns you."

Lumi felt ill at ease with the parting comment of a lot of things being of no concern to her. In any other light, that would not be a bad thing. But the way she phrased it made her worry. She pretended like nothing however as she began to speak. Taking a piece of salmon on her fork she looked at it as she did so. "I didn't mean for it to get in the way of your daily routine. As for what you should do with them...? Well... I clearly have a preference. I wouldn't have said it like that If I didn't have an opinion on it, but in the end, you are still the one to either chose to make something of it or not. Either way..." She trailed off as she popped the salmon into her mouth. "I'll still support you. I said that I wanted to be part of your life and contribute, and I meant that." She said with a bright smile at Gwen.

A smile appeared on Gwen's face, letting air out of her nose as she was clearly amused by Lumi's final words. "I can appreciate that, and worry not, I was able to finish my duties for the day. It was I who decided to dwell on your words, whether I meant to or not." She explained, continuing with her meal. However, after a short bit of time in silence, she decided to speak up once more. "However, you did say that had I answered this morning's question I would be allowed to ask an equally personal one," Gwen said, turning her attention back to Lumi, her ruby eyes looking over the girl. "I've been curious. Do all the people of Ungmar look as you do? Not entirely, of course, more as in whether or not you all possess skin of blue and tails? I apologize if that is a rude question. I am simply curious if all of your people posses your charm?" She asked, tacking on a compliment to show that she did not think ill of Lumi's appearance.

Lumi giggled at her questions and added compliment. "Well... Yes and no? The blue skin is typical of my covenant in Ungmar, but my tail and such is just what came with the job for me. The Ungmar covenants primarily consist of humans and elves, all of whom take on some attributes of their dedicated Loa. Our covenant being blue skins and a constant state of 'hypothermia' though we are capable of regulating it." Lumi explained. "As for charm? That's a me thing." She said with an exaggerated flip of her hair to accentuate her joke. "No, but seriously, Gwen, that question hardly even passes as racially insensitive, let alone personal. Come on! We said it would be personal. Give me a hard one!" Lumi said with joking enthusiasm.

Gwen leaned back in her chair, crossing one of her legs over the other as she thought of something truly personal that she might interest her. She did not wish to push her bounds or make Lumi uncomfortable so soon after meeting the girl, but with Lumi having made the offer, she wasn't sure that she could refuse such a chance to ask whatever she pleased. Gwen sat back up, her short-lived rest having been used to think. "People are complicated creatures, Lumi. If I may be so bold as to ask, what it is that you hope to gain out of your life? Surely you want more than... well, this." She motioned to herself and then to the room around her. "Do you have any hopes? Any dreams that are solely your own? Beyond the politics and duties in your life. Perhaps you wish to become an accomplished author? Or an artist? Maybe even something that I am wholly unaware of?" She asked, there was a look of sincere curiosity in her eyes as she asked Lumi. "Is there some sort of passion that drives you?"

Lumi was caught back. Not from the question itself, but in regards to how she would answer it. She wanted to make sure to lie as little as possible, but this one might make that a bit tricky. "Well... When I was younger, I... I really wanted to become a Loa." She answered earnestly. "Becoming a Loa is a feat and goal that one can achieve, it is just very hard and rare, and you need a tight bond with one or more Loa even then to make it happen most likely... Eventually I just didn't want that anymore." She said with clear sincerity if not a bit of sadness.

"As for now...? What? Is happiness and love not good enough goals in this day and age?" Lumi went back to her typical jokes, as to defuse the tension in her own heart. "Either way, these days I would like to be a... well... I want to be an illustrator and a game designer." She said ashamedly as if the statement would cause more offense than the dress.

A genuine smile grew on Gwen's face, for the first time looking happy rather than only satisfied with the answer that Lumi gave her. However, the hint of sadness had not been lost on her. "I see, you were a very ambitious child. That is good, to aim high, admirable even." Gwen said in regards to Lumi's former goals. "However, your current goals are no less so, even if they are far more achievable than reaching Godhood." She continued, leaning forward a bit toward Lumi. "I may even go so far as to say that I find your goals commendable. In the sense that I am delighted to hear that you have a passion that I hope that you intend to work toward. I believe that such passion is important to have in the hearts of all people. If there is no fire in the heart we are no more than empty husks." She praised Lumi in her own, odd way. "But anyhow, I thank you for sharing that with me. As you have promised me, I will also support you in whatever way I can. As your friend, at the moment." She said before a knock rang out from the door.

"Ah, yes, he's returned." She said before raising her voice, "Enter!" She spoke before the man from before entered the room with a dark green colored glass bottle with a red liquid inside of it. The man offered to open it to which Gwen declined, taking the bottle with a "Thank you," Before dismissing the man. Her nails grew long and to a point before she ran her thumb and index finger across the neck of the bottle. Her claws cutting cleanly through the glass like a hot knife through butter. She popped off the glass top, finishing her water before filling her glass with the liquid. "Would you like some, Lumi? I promise it will go down smoother than whiskey. It's Strawberry wine from the country of Invicta, my parents spent their honeymoon there and have taken quite a liking to their wine. As have I," She said as she offered to pour Lumi a glass.

"Oh!" Lumi half-exclaimed in surprise. *Why I even think otherwise?They don't seem to be much like they are at home... At all...*"Sorry... I keep expecting you all to judge me like the ones at home. Ambitions beyond the court? Absurd!" She said with exaggerated flair and a smile. "I really want to make a game. Make people happy and excited for the fantastical aspects of it. I'm still on the learning ropes, but I think I am getting better all the time. I just want to bring some joy into this world. Make me feel worthwhile I guess."

She extended her glass towards Gwen to accept her offer. "Can't say that I know what a 'strawberry' is, but if it is fruity then I think I will handle it just fine" She said as Gwen poured her a glass. "Is this country known for their wines, or is it just an exception that is very good?"

*"She doesn't know of Strawberries?*" She thought, a bit surprised by the revelation. "Yes, to Ashvattha, Invicta is known for its temperate weather and marvelous vineyards on the western coast of the country. However, from my understanding it is seen to the rest of Valhalla it is a military force like no other." Gwen explained as she sat the bottle down and picked up her glass. "I'm sure that you'll enjoy it. Were I a gambling woman, I'd bet on it." She said before raising her glass up slightly. "How about a toast? To a place you can be yourself without judgement, and to our luck in all we wish to achieve?"

Lumi raised her glass in turn to meet with Gwen's. "A toast! And to prosperous futures!" Lumi replied, clinking the glasses together as she took a sip, a bright look in her eyes from the taste. "This is delicious! Even if were to need to return home for an unforeseeable future, I will buy with me at least a hundred of these bottles home." She said with a grand smile on her face. "Thank you for this. I think I've found one of my new favorites."

Gwen sipped at the wine, enjoying its flavor for a bit before ultimately swallowing it. She was delighted to hear that Lumi enjoyed the wine. It was one of her favorites as well, as well as her parent's. She chuckled a bit at Lumi's statement of buying a hundred bottles, "If that happens just be sure to leave a few for the rest of us. Wine this well made takes a lot of time to create. We may very well go through withdraws before they could get more in stock." She joked, wiping the red liquid from her lips with a napkin. "So, if it is not too personal to ask, as I feel I might have already met the quota of personal questions I may ask, what sort of game are you trying to create? A board game? A carnival game? Or perhaps one of those video games that Cousin Theo and this wife seem to enjoy so fondly?" She asked, not expecting her to know too much of Alice's brother. Unless she did her research on the family before meeting with them.

"Boardgames mostly, though I do want to make a couple of video games when I have a good enough vision for one. I think Videogames are the future of entertainment for many, so I want to indulge the demand. But I would also like to make a boardgame that people enjoy enough to take a break from the modernized and do the old school. I am thinking a card game, perhaps. A trading card game? I know they are a dime a dozen, but I hope I can make something fun out of it still."Lumi said excitedly, taking another sip of the addictive liquid. "What about you, Gwen? Do you have any aspirations beyond the family politics? I know what you enjoy, but not so much whether you are working towards something."

"Aside from furthering my family? Yes, I do have a few things in mind. That said, I do not think they are as interesting as yours. I simply wish to further the knowledge of this world. In magic, history, all things that interest me. I know that may not sound like something solely my own, as the Vroman family consists of many who have spent their lives to that same end. But it is not something I do for their sake or the sake of my legacy. Rather, I simply wish to have a better understanding of this world and the nature of it. However, I more often find myself left with more questions than I have answers for. Another thing I would like to achieve is to have my magic reach its fullest potential. As you may know if you've looked into my mother's side of the family, she is not human. Not in the way she was born at the least, as such, a part of me is not human. That is the part I wish to develop and explore, there is still so much that we do not understand about the Primal magics once wielded by the Dragons...." She said, beginning to ramble before she caught herself. "Forgive me, I'm sure my interests aren't all that interesting. But they are what they are." She explained before bringing the glass to her lips again. She sipped once more at the wine before setting it down on the table, a clear look of enjoyment upon her face as she tasted the sweet liquid.

"If I had to choose a more down to earth ambition, I would one day like to maybe learn to build models. Perhaps something along the lines of ships in bottles? I simply don't have the patience for them at the moment. Thus, the art alludes me," She said with a slight chuckle, only her knowing how many she'd already smashed after losing her patience with them.

"Both sound incredible." Lumi replied, a pondering look on her face. "Maybe you could even learn something about Loa powers if you are feeling up for it at some point? I can be your little experiment with my connection!" Lumi suggested, an intrigued and joyful look in her eye. "I understand if you'd rather take your own time in the matter, but since my Loa Spirit is that of memory and dreams, if you strike a bargain with me, I could give you some insight to the model building. You might even be able to analyze 'The Deal'?" she offered, sipping down the rest of her drink and holding it up to her, asking for more. "But like I said, I understand if these are things you would rather take your own time with."

Gwen was surprised by Lumi's intrigue regarding her interests, though, she was grateful that she was not scared off by the dullness others often found in her ambitions. She thought about Lumi's prospect, knowing that it may very well be a thing worth pursuing. But she was hesitant to use Lumi for experimental purposes, not opposed to it, but certainly leaning against it. "Perhaps, but it is something that I will need to think on." She said as she poured another glass for Lumi and topped off her own. "What sort of bargain are we talking about? From my understanding, deals with Gods tend to have costs that far outweigh the reward." She explained her hesitance to take her up on such an offer.

"Well..." Lumi playfully trailed off. "That entirely depends. Some Loa are just outright bastards, 'tis true. But some are also benevolent. Some ask low prices, some higher. The Loa Spirit I represent is one of the kinder ones. And the bargain we strike can have different costs depending on how much you would ask of us. If it is just, as an example, model building, then we can probably strike an easy bargain, though it needs to be something we actually want in return. If you want more detailed or difficult knowledge, then the price will naturally be steeper. But another detail is that you can actually become friends with a Loa, making them less inclined to take too high a price from you."

Gwen stifled a titter, "You make them sound more like merchants than Gods." She explained herself and what she found humorous. "The Loa sound like an interesting bunch, it's making me more eager to read that book of yours to learn more about them." She continued, passing for a moment to finish up her salmon. Chewing it thoroughly before swallowing and beginning to speak again. "Now, this may sound off topic but I assure you that it is not. But I often spend my mornings before attending to my duties out on the deck overlooking the garden pond as you may have observed this morning. I was wondering if you might be willing to join me there in the mornings for chats over breakfast. You may refuse, of course, but I believe that at that time and dinner like this are the best opportunities for us to speak with one another. It needn't be every day as well, but I believe that I would enjoy the company." She spoke professionally as though offering some sort of business venture. But truthfully, she just wanted more chances to speak to Lumi about different things ranging from the book she was reading, to learn more about Lumi and her culture, perhaps simply to have someone there that she could talk to in general.

Lumi's disposition didn't change in the slightest. She was still ever so happy-looking. Taking a gulp of the wine, now having started to get used to the alcohol in it enough to start chugging if she felt like it, she looked at Gwen with happiness plastered all over her. "I'd be honored!" She replied. "I'd be happy to keep you company during those times. Now to learn some additional conversation topics as well so I won't make you bored." She joked. "And in some manners, yes, I wouldn't say that you are that far off. The Loa love their bargains and deals. It helps to make them stronger and more influential. It is also kind of like being a businessman. You don't want your 'services' to be too cheap or expensive, because then no one will come to you because of the cost, or the Loa won't get anything out of it because they give it away for too little. There needs to be a 'profit', you know?"

Gwen was happy that Lumi had accepted her offer, a bit more so than she'd liked to admit. She found the woman fun to talk to, even if Lumi had a tendency to see through Gwen in ways that made her uncomfortable. Or perhaps, that was exactly the reason? Gwen did not know for sure. "Yes, I understand well how business works. Your Gods certainly seem more human than the religions often found here in Ashvattha depict their Gods. But, I suppose if what you said is true, then many of them very well may have been at some point." She explained, sipping at her wine again. She was surprised that Lumi was handling the wine so well, even she could only handle about a glass and half before she would notice the effects of the alcohol beginning to show. But Lumi was taking to it rather well, perhaps as a result of her low body temperature slowing her metabolism? In that case, the alcohol would hit her rather suddenly later in the night.

Once the two had finished their dinner, dessert was brought to them. The lid coming off to reveal dark chocolate drizzled cheesecake from which a slice was silently cut out for the both of them as to not disturb their conversation. Once the cake had been delivered, the man retreated back to the out of the way corner he had been standing in before. "Tell me Lumi, is there perhaps anything here in Unianim that you would like to see? It is a good few days away but I am free from my duties this Sunday, I have agreed to meet up with a friend to do some shopping. I doubt she would mind if you joined us? In fact, I doubt she would be anything short of delighted."

Lumi paused in her bite when Gwen approached her about maybe heading out into town. "Hm... Well, I guess I wouldn't mind it if you are both okay with it. Actually, I'd be overjoyed. I think... I think I would like to see their garden and park. I've heard that it is supposed to be beautiful. A wonderful and calm spot. With my interest in Botany alone that should be an interesting sight. I heard it is even more beautiful from above and during the night... Either way, if you would allow me, then I will happily come with you!" She said before continuing her bite.

"Ah, yes, you're referring to the walled garden. I know of the place but I haven't visited frequently. It would be nice to return, though I won't spoil why it is that people claim its beauty is shone brightest at night." She replied before taking a bite of the cake. She was glad that Lumi agreed to join her and Olivia's going into town and glad that Lumi had picked a nice and quiet spot rather than some loud or overcrowded place. "I'm sure Olivia will be thrilled to hear we have another friend joining us. In fact, you two might have some things in common. Olivia claims that her mother was blessed by a Goddess of the snow mountains. I do not know if the claim is true but Olivia sure is into the idea that it is. Her own ice magic is rather unique as well. So you might have a topic of conversation there as well," Gwen explained before taking another bite of her cake. Swallowing it and washing it down with what remained of her glass she then spoke up, "I just hope that I don't end up the third wheel on our little adventure," She joked.

"No way that I am gonna let that happen." Lumi said quite seriously, but with a hint of humor as to acknowledge the joke in Gwen's statement, both humoring the joke while also clarifying that Lumi wasn't about to do such a thing to her friend. "All the same, I am looking forward to meeting Olivia. She might-" Lumi spoke, halting herself. *Her mother is touched by a god? Could she tell then?* Lumi thought in frantic pace. Looking back up at Gwen realizing how silly she must have looked taking a pause mid sentence and then keeping quiet after. "S-Sorry. That 'god' thing caught me off guard. I didn't think other civilizations had 'princes' and 'princesses' like we do. I thought we were a bit unique like that." She said with a giggle, trying to mask her nervousness, something that was now unknowingly reflected in her curled tail.

Gwen cocked her head to the side, taken back by Lumi's sudden nervous appearance. "I certainly wouldn't call her mother a princess of any kind, not the one we're speaking of anyhow. But yes, according to Olivia, her mother was gifted with a blessing when she was a young girl. I mean, it would explain her powerful ice magic. But so would years of hard work and dedication. If you're worried that Olivia might challenge you to some sort of religious debate, worry not, she is firm in her beliefs but she does not force them onto others. She will respect your faith so long as you respect hers." Gwen tried to assure Lumi there would liekly be no conflict between them. "Not to say I don't poke fun at her from time to time." Gwen partially joked, wanting to keep the mood above a sour note.

"I-It's not that, thought it is good to know that it won't be a problem either way. Always good to know that there is good hearted fun about religion here. Not that easy a topic back home. Depending on who you talk to it can get very... messy. I wouldn't actually mind a debate of religion if it were to come to it. If something isn't challenged it is just left to deteriorate, right?" Lumi replied, trying to get around the topic a wee bit. "Besides, I think there would be few things she could bring up to 'counter' my religion that I haven't already thought of myself."

"You would be surprised, but I have great doubt that Olivia knows anything about your religion. She isn't the type to debate unprepared so I'm sure she wouldn't have much to say even if you challenged her yourself. That said, she might actually be fairly interested in your book if for no other reason than to get a brief look into your faith. She'll have to wait of course, as I believe the one you loaned me is the only copy we have in our possession. Poor Olivia." Gwen said teasingly as though Olivia were somewhere in the room with them. "But yes, Hylion is open and free when it comes to debating most subjects. That is not the case everywhere in Ashvattha but there aren't any laws against it anywhere that I am aware of. Just that in certain parts you're likely to start a fight for questioning a certain God or whatnot here or there." She went on to explain, "Such is the nature of the world. But either way, you're booth cheerful and spry. So I'm sure you'll get along." She continued before finishing up her cake. "Tell me, is there anything else you would like to ask or chat about before we call it an evening? I am rather enjoying our conversations, so I don't mind simply relaxing here food or not."

Lumi relaxed again at those words, happy to hear that Gwen actually was starting to enjoy her company. "I could think of no better way to handle the evenenig. So what do you want to talk about?" Lumi asked as they continued for a time longer for as long as Gwen was capable of and felt like. Before nightfall did they part ways for the day, Lumi feeling beyond content with the turnout of the day, feeling that she was somehow getting there.