Exton

As they ride Inaris thoughts are interrupted by her horses nickering. Around another bend and the palace came into view. It was an imposing structure, tall turrets and several flags waving in the wind. Oberons flag on the highest point and Titanias brightly colored flag at a point just below that.

The gates open for her amid salutes and a few called out hellos. She dismounts and a groom takes her and Twillons horses. As she watches the horses being led away her eye is drawn to a soldier, holding the reins to his stallion while a groom checks the animal's shoes. She could tell from his dress that he was one of the Nighthawks that was usually sent out to fight on the borders. She wonders briefly why he was here since they usually dont swear allegiance to either court, working on their own for the good of both realms. Another glance and her thoughts turn to his rugged but handsome face, the muscles of his arms firmly defined as he holds his horse still. He lifts his gaze to her face and she lowers hers.

The court looks to be busy with many people coming and going. Inari is glad that she sent a message ahead, telling the Queen of her companions and the seriousness of their visit. A page approaches them and explains that the Queen would receive them now, in private.

Inari leans close to Twillons shoulder, “Weebit, dont be nervous. You dont need to hide. You are under the Queens protection here, none will harm you.”

Weebit moves on Twillons shoulder so that she can see. Her eyes are wide and taking in everything around her and she smiles gratefully at Inari.

“Lets go then. The Queen does not like to be kept waiting.” And Inari and her companions head for the palace.

“Who was that?” the soldier asks, watching her walk quickly away.

“Inari,” the groom replies.

“Really? That was her? I suppose I should have bowed or something...” the soldier says in an almost sarcastic tone, still not quite sure if he believed the groom. The girl that just got off her horse didnt look big enough to lift a sword let alone do anything with it.

“Yes, that was her. And you dont have to bow, although many do. She doesnt expect it, she is... more humble than that. She and her companions seemed in a hurry, the Queen must be expecting her...”