Tana
It wasn't too terribly long before the doors within the dining hall would breathe life once more to greet its second guest. While the guards listed off the arrival of what they *Thought* Would be the Khisfire queen herself, both the king and prince would be greeted with a much more younger face. But one that held maturity and poise nonetheless. Nala Samir, the youngest within her family tree, was strutting into the scene with her head held high- donning a very elegant black slip dress that swayed along with golden clipped shoulder silks; almost like that of a cape. Embroidered with respective Khisfire emblems, this newly found adolescence looked as if she was far beyond her years. Instead of keeping her *Very* Long hair down and braided, the half elf opted for a much more neat bun that was relaxed on the back of her head. Low enough to brush the back of her neck but elegant enough to be seen within the royal's eyes. Atop her raven hair sat a slim and decorative crown fit for that of a princess.

Nala was a fairly small girl. Of course that was only because of her age, but looks can be deceiving. Because although Samir had carried herself highly into the room- allowing her atmosphere to be strongly known- There was an internal struggle she had with herself. It hadn't even been three whole days before the exile of her only guard, Hark. And Nala was sure that the news of an assassin within the kingdom would have been spread to all the others by now. Which not only made *Her* Look bad, but her kingdom as well. Even so, the young girl's heart was nowhere close to healing. However she musnt show any signs of weakness. At least, that's what her mother told her. 
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Those bright emerald eyes rested methodically within her skull, and soon, a sweet smile pursed between her dimpled cheek as the princess gave a gracious bow. "Greetings, Your majesty. I apologize for my sudden arrival. My mother insisted I go in her place to gain experience and knowledge in royal encounters..." Locking her eyes with the King, Nala lifted her chin in sincerity, "... Though I promise this has not been my first, and I hope you will treat me with the same expectations as the other guests coming tonight." Before the princess could finish her statement, the low sound of reverberating growls rang the ears of all present within the room. Emerging from the door, were two **Massive** Tigers that soon fled to each side of Samir. These were no normal animals, as their size was unnaturally larger than that of a normal tiger. But one in particular stood out from the other given its odd markings. A crescent shaped moon cupped the forehead of the white and chocolate brown female, and once through the doors, magic shimmered within her fur- causing the doors to gently close behind them. 
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"Oh- And these... Are my stand in guards. Kashi and Qamar." Nala said, resting each of her hands upon their heads as she offered a weary smile. "I promise they are well behaved, your majesty, you won't even know they are here." Trying not to ramble on, the princess silently dipped her head and made her way over towards the dinner table. As she passed Prince Asalios, Nala was sure to greet him too. And did so much more hushly when she found a palace to sit by his side- though left a chair between them for good measure. Qamar on the other hand, found herself sniffing around the royals armor before letting out a quiet "*Hfff* Of noisey greeting. She was quite the explorer, and sociable pet. Yet still made her way next to her princess and lied down with no more than a loud huff. Nala trained her eyes around the table, taking in all the beautiful decor and plethora of dishes scattered neatly along the blue trim. It as *Alot* To say the least. However, nothing Nala herself wasn't used to in her own kingdom. 



"This place is very beautiful, King Zarreus. Thank you again for being so welcoming..." Folding her hands gracefully within her lap, Samir hesitated a moment before asking, "Do you know who all is coming? If I may ask, that is..."
Tyler
*There is a red and black castle that sits high on stone walls. Inside is a tempest that defies and rules all. With his battleax and army, he will conquer everything. Be afraid, obey, and bow to the Bear King.*

Yet again, the massive doors to the castle's dining hall opened once more, but rather than a man, a massive white bear standing on two legs stood beneath the frame of the doorway. A black and red crown with gold filigree adorned his furry white head, and before fully stepping into the hall, the bear king allowed the announcer to speak his name and title. "*Now presenting his majesty, King Alyus Archaius of Gantrick.*" Stepping into the hall, Alyus glanced over the decorations of the castle, his nose moving gently to get a good smell and listen to his surroundings. No guards accompanied the king, but a massive black and red battleax rested along his back, an obvious sign that he was more than prepared to defend himself should the need arise.

Dressed in Gantrick's colors, the king wore armor rather than a classy outfit. Black and red, like everything else, a massive and enchanted breastplate stretched to fit his 10 foot tall figure, at least while in his polar bear form. The sigil of his kingdom adorned the breastplate, a bear with a golden crown. Stomping his way along, it was obvious his form was a show of strength and pride, as he was proud of what he was; a bear king. Following behind Alyus was a second massive form; his pet chimera Vetur. Three heads and a snake-like tail peered out behind the king, its own noses smelling the air and each head glancing around at each present individual. One a polar bear just like Alyus, and the other two an owl and white panther of sorts. Stomping along, Vetur found a nice corner to sit in and laid down, just as the princesses tigers had done.
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As Alyus neared the table, he glanced over the three already sat at the table, his eyes first landing on King Zarreus. Noting the horns and figure of the king, Alyus did nothing more than dip his head in respect, while swallowing the harsh words he wished to spew at each of them for mistakes they didn't even make. Eyeing the two younger individuals in the middle of the large table, Alyus raised a brow. Neither were a king or queen, as Alyus knew their parents all too well. He offered neither the same dip of his head, but instead fixated his eyes back onto King Zarreus. Alyus waited to speak for a long moment, as he was mentally preparing for the inevitable struggle with his own anger and hatred toward each of the other kingdoms.

So long ago, his mother had perished at the hands of his father and former king, King Alaric Archaius, alongside his own brother Godwin. The two had gone mad and ruined the life Alyus had been living, and rushed him into the throne without nearly any preparation, as Godwin was first in line and had received all the training Alyus had not. Of course, while his mother was on her deathbed, Alyus had reached out to each of the kingdoms and royal families, meaning the parents of each of the other royals present at this dinner. Astalios's mother and father, Nala's mother and father, and even Zarreus's ignored Alyus' cries for help. A sour taste was left in the bear king's mouth, but he couldn't be angry at any of them, no matter how much he wished to. Alaric Archaius had broken ties with the other kingdoms, making it impossible to fix in such a dire time of need when his mother was dying.
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With a huff, Alyus took a seat, though there was a slight worry it'd break beneath his monstrous weight. Ensuring it wouldn't, he rested in the chair and once again eyed the prince and princess sitting near him, though his words carried across the table in a large boom toward King Zarreus. "Thank you for the invitation your majesty, though I thought it would be king and queens, not princes and princesses I'd be dining with." While it wasn't a direct jab, it was obvious Alyus was a bit confused at Nala and Astalios's presence. Things happen, he understood that, but part of him wished to hear each of Khisfire and Alynthi's royals to apologize to him for his mother's death, even if it wasn't truly their fault she was dying in the first place. Damn his father to hell, where Alyus knew in his heart the bastard resides to this day, alongside Godwin. Call it a vendetta or even a childish way of thinking, but someone needed to answer for it all, at least in Alyus's mind they did.

"I am curious, King Zarreus, why of all people you'd ask me to help you in the death of King and Queen Meshoon. I'm sure I'm not the only one who's mulled over the possibility of the blame being thrown my way. It was after all they who turned their backs on me, alongside others not present here today." Alyus's pointed question was a bit insincere, but he had every reason and right to ask. It made more than basic sense to point fingers at him. He was a vengeful individual, and rumors of the vicious bear king were neverending. Alyus was an iron fisted ruler, and an unforgiving one at that. Though if Zarreus did blame Gantrick, he doubted he'd invite other royal to witness their *Attempted* Arrest of King Alyus. Scoffing a bit at his thoughts, a smirk rested on his lips at the thought of them even trying to come close to him, let alone arresting him.
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Running a paw-like hand beneath his chin, Alyus waited for the fellow king's response, and took a moment to look over Nala and Astalios once more. The first word that came to mind when looking over the princess was 'puny'. As for Astalios, his strong look made Alyus think of nothing more than 'cocky'. Both had never met Alyus and vice versa, but had no doubt heard the same stories of him and his family's history of being cruel and vicious. Alyus's crystal blue eyes peered back over to Zarreus, before a large paw came up and rested beneath his chin, a patient look on his face. *This would be interesting, indeed.*
Chong
Zarreus felt a wave of confidence surge through himself as his royal guard declared the name of his first arrival. The impatience and anxiety washed away in but a moment as all uncertainty left his expression, and gave to for stern calculation. Those bright yellow eyes felt almost piercing with such a focused expression, as though he were a demon attempting to peer into ones very soul. An image accented by the large, waved horns and ash-red skin. A look that his father Mavreus always told him made him look just like his mother. Though, he would never state which.

As Astalios entered the room, that prodding stare fell upon him. Reading everything he could upon the Prince's posture and expression. *Rugged... Built. Perhaps a to- no. Personality, Zarreus, read his _character_.* The Mystic King's internal monologue mused, as he refocused. The man walked stiffly. Attempting a show of militaristic might, perhaps? Send the young warrior prince in his prime, alone. Clever. He certainly did well to present an air of power. A smirk found itself crawling along the corner of his mouth. His smooth and elegant tone filled the hall after the prince's greetings were spoken. "Thank *You*, your highness, for gracing my court with Alynthi's representation. Please, have a seat."
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It wasn't but a moment later that the next announcement began. He had not seen the Queen of Khisfire in over a decade. The prospect of her getting to see him fully grown after all this time was exciting. Though the excitement was expertly concealed under his well-practiced 'kingly' look. Imagine his shock, however, when instead of the queen of Khisfire, the *Princess* Nala emerged through his doors. As much as this caught him off guard, what really caused him to break was the emergence of two massive tigers that accompanied her. Just behind them, a bunch of very embarrassed looking royal guards stood wide-eyed. Hoping this would not lose them their jobs. Zarreus was visibly flustered at the sight, and sensing her master's discomfort, Cinder stood at attention on his shoulders. Staring down the beasts as they approached the table alongside the Khisfire royal.


When she finished her greeting, and much needed explanation, the King found a moment to compose himself, and his intense yellow orbs focused right in on Nala. "I understand you are young and learning, *Princess Nala*." Intentionally, he left some formality out of his wording, looking to bring light to the gravity of what had been done. "But these are the kind of changes that I should be **Notified of.** What if one of my guards had panicked and struck you? What if one of your animals had assaulted my men?" He furrowed his brow and leaned forward. Emphasizing his displeasure. "Formality is in place for a *Reason*, your Highness. Wars have been started for less. At the very least, ensure that I am aware you'll be bringing massive beasts into my **Dining hall**. This will be written off as youthful misguidedness this once, so please, be seated, and absorb what I have told you."
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He sighed softly. Zarreus was thankful that hadn't gone poorly. As the princess found her seat, and asked him of who else was arriving, he responded quickly. Wishing to get on to other subjects. "One more will be arriving to join us. You'll simply have to wait for the surprise."


He did not speak again for a while. Choosing to rest his focus on what was sure to be the most grandiose entrance yet. He had not yet met King Alyus, but he'd heard plenty of his intimidating nature, and was very well acquainted with his family history. He figured it may be a long shot, but establishing a decent relation with Gantrick via this dinner would most certainly be a bonus. As the royal guard stated the name and title, Zarreus kept his attention on the large doors as they opened to reveal a hulking figure. A polar bear Shapeshifter, and an iron fisted ruler. Much like Astalios, he seemed here to make his presence known. Not entirely unexpected.


King Zarreus did not react this time when the beast entered the door. Though many of the guards present in the room were getting nervous at the growing presence of large magical animals. The arrival was anticipated, however, and there was no additional shock for the poor soldiers. Only whispers were exchanged to one another as the Bear King made his way forward and greeted Zarreus.
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"I thank you for answering my call, your Majesty. I know it may be a bit awkward with royals in training, but the next generation must be taught *Somehow*." He flicked a look to Nala before recentering his eyes with Alyus'. "Please, take a seat of your choice."


The King of Ganktrick's next question was certainly down to business, that much was true. Even though it was years ago, the subject of his parent's deaths was still not a comfortable one for the tiefling King. Somberness grew on his face for a moment before he choked it back to answer Alyus with a clear tone.


"Far be it for me to drop the sins of the elders on the current king just because he bears the same name. King Alyus, I reached out to you to prove that I don't share those same preconceived notions. I think you never got given a fair shot due to your birthright, and I do hope you'll take this as a sign that names mean nothing to me. Actions do." He leaned back in his seat, and looked to one of the knights lining the wall. "Sir Ver, please let the cooks know all guests are accounted for, and we're ready for the meals."


*"Right away, your Majesty"* The guard stated, before leaving in a hurry through a side door, presumably leading toward the kitchen.
Tamara
*The visage of Zarreus was quite different than reports would otherwise have indicated. At the table, he was deadly serious - at least, for a moment. Astalios's eyes caught the smirk making its way across his face, and confirmed that at least for the moment, he was amused. It was easy to see what he intended to project, and perhaps that was being received differently than he would have liked. There was more than military power to Alynthi, surely - and his father and mother were living proof. 

He did, however, feel a little out of his depth, though that was shown in no discernible way but in his thoughts. His face remained calm, and his steps remained confident and steady as he made his way to the table and took his place near the head. Conversation, after all, was impossible when one had to shout over the length of a festhall. Much better to actually be able to hear each other.* "My thanks." *He replied as he positioned himself for the next arrival.*

*Strutting with head held high into the room was the princess of Khisfire, with two animals. There was a lack of decorum in the appearance of a princess as opposed to a queen that Astalios thought to himself would be picked up on - especially when a queen was announced in her place. The animals, as well, were unusual, and perhaps she had misplayed her hand in admitting a lack of experience with political situations - Astalios's own inexperience in diplomacy was carefully hidden. All it took was a word or two before respect was lost, and perhaps she had done so.*

"Your highness." *He acknowledged her as she came in through the door, as was proper, and ignored the tiger that was sniffing around at his armor. For all intents and purposes, it might not have even been there. He was not at the table to dine with tigers, and though they might have been the princess's guards, he was not there to converse with any of King Zarreus's guards, either. He did rather like the guards in most cases...*

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*But this was a dinner, and not a barracks. Certain protocol had to be observed - and perhaps he'd talk to the soldiers later, after the diplomacy was finished. The measure of a man was often in how others saw him, especially those close enough to see his conduct day in and day out. The Findaran guards would be very helpful to talk to, he mused, very helpful indeed.*

*His thoughts were interrupted by the appearance of King Alyus, whose temperament was perhaps unsurprisingly as bitterly cold as his kingdom. He betrayed no change in expression, and only an observant eye from the prince to the king was any indication of curiosity. His words dripped with venom and tragedy, and he might have perhaps been more aptly named the Adder King for the way he spoke. Lip service to protocol, none of the respect that was appropriate to display. He was used to getting his way with no opposition. That was no reason to give him an excuse to lash out, however, and while Astalios's head did not dip, he did speak.*

"Your Majesties, this meeting is quite likely to be the norm in the future. Experience with us will serve you well for the years to come." *His voice was deep, confident, and measured, every word carefully placed. There was steel behind his speech. Muddy brown eyes stared back into crystal blue and deep yellow, a reminder that flash was not needed for substance. It was a polite reminder that they were not simply to be dismissed because their station was not yet quite equal to Zarreus or Alyus's own. The fact remained that they were going to be the leaders of their kingdoms, and with that came the weight of diplomacy.*
Tyler
"I agree with that. Actions speak much louder than any words. I am sorry for your loss nonetheless, as I can sympathize with you more than anyone I'm sure you know. My father was a bastard and I know in my heart he's where he belongs. Whether your mother and father did the right thing is not for me to decide. Findara is a prosperous and beautiful kingdom, and as hard as it is for me to swallow I cannot judge a soul off a single action, no matter how much I want to." With a pause, Alyus let out a gentle sigh and ran a paw over his chin, scratching it lightly. There was weight behind his words, as he was essentially offering peace between Findara and Gantrick. His heart ached, and wished to lash out at everyone present, but he couldn't afford it. Alyus would have to get over it soon. "Nevertheless, I am here to listen and extend a hand should I be in a position to offer it. All things considered, I can't see why I wouldn't be."

Watching as Astalios and Nala remained quiet for the majority of the conversation, Alyus perked his ears toward the prince when he finally opened his mouth. While the king's expression remained rather empty, Alyus had a rising feeling in his chest that Astalios would prove to be a hard one to crack. He knew of his campaigning and experience on the field, something Alyus truly lacked. No one had been at war with Gantrick in a long time, long before his station as king. It felt like a thorn in his side, and while Astalios was a year younger than Alyus, all the bear king could see in the prince was his late older brother Godwin. Cocky and sure of himself. The future would be interesting, especially when Astalios would inevitably be named king. "I heard of the announcement, prince. Looking for a future queen is no small feat."
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Alyus himself had yet to find a queen, something his court reminded him of at each meeting. Each time, Alyus brushed the notion aside. Of course, that came the discussion of producing an heir, but there was fear in finding a woman and having a child. What if he ended up like his father, mad with power and murder his family? It was quite the irrational fear, but trauma is a bitch. Shaking the thought from his mind, Alyus noticed the princesses' silence. Choosing not to comment, King Alyus had no interest in Khisfire anyways. While an ally in between two potential enemies may be quite beneficial, Khisfire was filled with thieves, murderers and liars. At least Gantrick was more public about its atrocities. Khisfire only seemed to cover theirs up. Noticing not only Thyseer's royals were absent, it didn't come as a surprise that the dark elves in Lazaroth weren't present either.

*Damned dark elves.* A selfish bunch, in Alyus's eyes. Choosing not to comment too much on it, Alyus rested back in his chair. There was an expression of deep thought on the bear king's face, almost as if he were dying to know King Zarreus's plan of action to solve the murder of his parents. Many thoughts had come into Alyus's mind, one being the Sisterhood. Murder of a king and queen both was nothing to scoff at, and not many could pull something so dangerous and public off. No one but the Sisterhood of Salvation. No one knew of their location or who was a member, making them impossible to pin down. Before suggesting potential suspects however, Alyus would allow Zarreus to speak on the subject.