Lilliana decided that, with the dawn approaching soon, it would be imprudent to change her dress to meet the gentleman.  But she did, however, clean it up a little and straighten out the unwanted creases before opening the door.  Her hair had been re-coiled around her head, her lips repainted and her jewels re-adjusted.  Clearly she'd dressed to impress.  Afterall, it wasn't often she'd meet anyone from outside Europe, let alone someone with such regal qualities and noble qualifications.  If her mother's teachings had left her with anything, it was that you can never surround yourself with enough positive influence.  As long as you were at the center and could pull the strings from there.<br/><br/>To his bow, she replied with a curtsey, spreading her many skirts wide to be able to dip as deeply as possible.  Before rising, she spoke in a soft, sweet and apologetic voice.  "Please excuse my tardiness, my lord.  I was met with a... minor difficulty that needed immediate attention.  Had it not required quick action, I would not have kept you waiting.  Please," she beckoned back to the chair. "sit.  I'm sure your long journey has left you with great fatigue."<br/><br/>She too sat on the edge of the seat accross from him alongside the fire, allowing herself to gaze into it for just a moment, as though asking it to be a silent witness and ambassador of blessings from the higher powers.  "I'm so glad your charming sisters could convince you to join me, even for a moment."  She smiled, her tiny pinkened lips forming what looked like a little rose petal  just bellow her nose.  This was obviously intentional, as she'd chosen the color spacifically for that effect.  She had indeed learned from one of the best in regards to careful flirtation.<br/><br/>___________<br/>With a sigh and a bow, Eurich bade Ijemaru good-day as they parted ways again.  He slowly passed from his sister's doorway, careful to shut it behind him (though a lot of good that would do if they decided to test the lock) and moved on toward his cozy catacombs and the companionship of his dear Winnefred, who would most likely be waiting up for him like a faithful fisherman's wife.  She would probably have something for him to "eat" as well, though he never partook of anything she caught.  This never seemed to discourage her, as she continued to catch and deliver her prey to his adoring feet.