A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Extreme =&gt; Extreme Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Wistful Dream on 03-01-2010, 22:33:40</h2>
		<dl id="posts">
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>03-01-2010, 22:33:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The Seelie Suite is a set of opulent rooms provided for the Princess Cerridwyn of the Seelie in the Goddess made sithern for the Betlane Ball. It has one massively large bedroom, clearly meant for the Princess with the things held within it, vanities, beauty products and scores of dresses, decorated in shades that would flatter the Princess; that of soft cream and gold and pale frosty blue. Attached to it is a luxurious bathroom. <br><br>That room though is the furthest back from the entrance to the suite, instead there is a sitting area, and a formal receiving room first to welcome those who might come to see her. Then come the rooms for her routine, many holding more then one bed, usually two and enough to house twelve male guards comfortably for all that at the moment she has only three. The two rooms closest to her own though, flanked on either side, are clearly for her handmaidens. The suite as a whole is tastefully, elegantly decorated, neat, classical lines with none of the over top taste that often fills the Seelie Court sithern. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>03-01-2010, 22:33:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was a relief to leave the ball, and she thought a statement of her trust in her guards that she had left them behind to follow as they would. Dawn didn't need a large group of people dancing in attendance upon her, but she was glad to have Lyranna with her, and to have a moment alone with her friend for once. "It is, to be in a quiet place, at least for a little while..." she confessed, letting some of the strain from the ball show in her midnight sky eyes as she and her friend made their way to the suite of rooms provided for her and her people in the new sithern.<br><br>At the question from Lyra the blond sighed and shrugged her shoulders, happy they were nearly to her rooms already, in that magical way a sithern had of rearranging itself to be helpful, most of the time anyway. "Honestly, yes, it is wise politically, savy even. Everyone will expect the Slaugh and the Goblins to give their support to Aria for High Queen; after all the Unseelie have held their loyalties for so long."<br><br>A rueful smile touched her lips, she was revealing just how much she had learned about politics both in the human world and in the fey one. "Fionn likely lost me any good chance at the Goblins, at least for the moment with the little show he put on in the garden, sadly. Fennris isn't likely to respect me much or believe I can back my words or promises of a alliance if one of my own guards acts so badly. So that leaves the Host, the Slaugh, even more fearsome then the Goblins in some ways." Dawn tilted her head, one hand going up to brush her curls over a shoulder, and then she smiled, when she realized they had reached her rooms already, the door opening in welcome as she and her handmaiden glided in and headed for her bedroom, a female sanctuary.<br><br>"But...I think it is wise also for my own reasons. It will show the guards that I am in charge, that I must be, a few of them seem to have forgotten that and I do not...dislike Cernunnos, he was a lovely dance partner and very polite. I expect to enjoy my evening and perhaps do something productive." She smiled and leaned over to softly peck her friends cheek. "Does that make you feel more at ease now?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>08-01-2010, 04:19:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lyranna desperately tried to get into the mind of the royalty.&nbsp; Of course, it was nearly impossible for a simple handmaiden to understand such complexities.&nbsp; But, she had to understand what the Princess was truly thinking in her choice for the Slaugh King.&nbsp; All of her words sounded so politically correct that Lyranna was surprised Dawn spoke them.&nbsp; She had apparently grown so much that she was not the little girl that she once knew.<br><br>Her words spoke of a wise woman who knew exactly what her decisions and actions would do.&nbsp; Dawn knew how she would be perceived and what would be the ramifications.&nbsp; But, as they ventured into her bedroom, more of Lyra's guard began to fall.&nbsp; The formal guise had fallen into shambles as Lyra became the trusting friend of Dawn.&nbsp; Yes, the decision she was making was the logical and the sound one for her.&nbsp; It fit perfectly for her and was completely political.&nbsp; But, that is not what Lyra cared for.&nbsp; No, she had other intentions on her mind.<br><br>"Princess, you have grown in a wise and intelligent young lady over the years.&nbsp; There is no doubt in my mind that you will make the right decision.&nbsp; I just pray that you allow your heart to have a voice.&nbsp; I just hope you allow yourself the opportunity to do what you feel is right."<br><br>Lyra's shimmering eyes looked into Dawn's as she spoke to the Princess.&nbsp; More than anything, Lyra trusted and hoped that she would follow her heart.&nbsp; She began to untangle herself from her touch as they would begin the process of preparing her for the evening's activities.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>09-01-2010, 07:24:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was a relief to have Lyra her friend, not the handmaiden peek out; after all Dawn was thoroughly sick of being a Princess most of the time. But she did understand that Lyranna had to please her father, had to make him think that she was entirely a proper lady's maid of sorts to keep the position, and dancing on attendance to her father's will was not something Dawn envied anyone. And the words her friend spoke reached inside to the Dawn that was simply a twenty eight year old woman thrust into a situation she hardly knew what to do in and was grasping for how to handle it. <br><br>The blond moved toward the bed, kicking off her heels with a grateful sigh even as she shifted, trying to reach to undo the buttons of her gown and of course not being able to reach them even as she considered Lyra's words carefully. "I grew as a modern woman, and my choices then help me now, I thank the Lord...er Goddess that I chose to be a political reporter, it stands me in good stead now, at least I'm not lost by all the politics." <br><br>She moved in whatever way her companion gestured for her to, to help get herself out of the glamorous dress. "What I feel is right? That is what I am doing, what is right for the Seelie, what I think the Goddess wants me to do, not that I'm all too sure on that, and what I think will see me safe and living, along with all of you...yes I'm doing that. Father has warned me over and over if I mess up it could cost a lot of lives, I know what's at stake." Her shoulders slumped slightly then, eyes fluttering shut as she finally truly let her will relax and admitted to herself what her heart wanted. <br><br>"What my heart wants? That's completely different, sometimes I just want to run back to the modern world, back to D.C., or Maine, to try and fine my human dad. I want Connal to relax and let me be me, I want Gywdion to honestly answer my questions sometimes, I want Roarke to ...be himself and not make me feel like I'm made of glass, I want Fionn to trust me...I want...I want...." she sighed, trailing off. "But the heart doesn't always matter, and even though it may hurt and sting, what the men do, the fact Pa is missing...I can't do anything about that, I'm all too aware of it." She laughed then, soft, bitter "Its funny, I would say I am all too aware of how human I am but I'm not even that."<br><br>Dawn moved her arms to aid with the removal of her gown, allowing Lyra to help her step out of it and then paused, clad only in the plain white undergarments that had lain beneath. A lacy bra trimmed with little bows here and there, thin panties and of course, a requirement it seemed since she had come to the sithern, a garter belt with stockings. She glanced at herself in the mirror, frowning as she turned her thoughts to the man she would be going to spend the evening with. What sort of outfit should she wear for him? Somehow the pristine white of her lacy underthings, which would have likely delighted Fionn or Connal, did not seem right. "What does one wear to a...assignation?" She mused outloud.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>21-01-2010, 22:39:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lyranna's instincts as a handmaiden were absolutely uncontrollable.&nbsp; The moment that Dawn began to undress, Lyra followed her without even a second thought.&nbsp; She immediately took her heels and placed them neatly against the wall so that they will not be stepped on by either of them.&nbsp; Her busy hands began to move behind the young Princess and help with the undressing of her gown.&nbsp; Lyra's training was in full effect as she waited on Dawn for her every need.<br><br>But, more importantly, she played the part of the trusting and loving friend.&nbsp; Lyra listened to her words as she went on about the troubles of her life.&nbsp; Her warm touch caressed her skin while she removed the intricate gown that she was wearing.&nbsp; Gentle feel of her fingers to remind the Princess that she was not alone and that she would always have somebody near by.&nbsp; Taking the gown in her arms, she retreated for just a moment to hang it up properly and for the garment not to be ruined.&nbsp; When she returned, she saw the Princess looking at herself in the mirror and Lyra came up behind her.&nbsp; Touching her bare shoulder, she smiled through the shroud of her lace handmaiden clothing.&nbsp; Smiling sweetly, she knew that the Princess was doing what was right.&nbsp; It may have been against her heart, but she had to think beyond such selfish desires.<br><br>"Princess, you are beauty beyond either world.&nbsp; I do believe your courtesan would agree with all of his heart.&nbsp; A woman of your elegance has many facets.&nbsp; Maybe you could show him that you are not the...innocent Princess that others would believe?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>22-01-2010, 00:34:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dawn felt her tension easing as Lyra soothed her and touched her shoulder, offering silent reassurance, their eyes meeting in the mirror before the princess turned to face her handmaiden. The blond hugged her friend and then pulled away to think, trailing toward the large walk through closet that was attached to the room, worrying her lower lip as she thought about what Lyranna had said. <br><br>"Not so innocent...black wouldn't look good with my coloring, at least not stark black." she mused outloud, her hands tugging open a drawer that held undergarments of all designs and colors a young woman could want. Splashes of pink and orange and yellow, the latter two making her wrinkle her nose, she would never wear canary yellow nor true orange, depths of black, crimson, hunter and navy, her hands danced over the satin and lace and silk garments. What colors were particular to the slaugh? Gray, the color of between. <br><br>It took a bit of searching but she plucked out a pair of dove gray panties, accented with the deepest shade of navy, nearly black. The material was sheer, teasing at showing skin, silky to the touch as well thankfully. It was a bikini thong cut, one that was both modest in the front and playful in the back, a narrow band of the navy running along the top of it and gathered ruffles just above to tickle at her stomach. A bow sat at the midpoint, below where her navel would be and she turned to flash both the underwear and a smile at her friend. "Think these state that well enough? Not innocent, but not...without class. Edged like a present..." she laughed, rummaging to find the matching bra. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>25-01-2010, 22:53:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lyranna hugged Dawn with all of her might as she desperately tried to reassure the young Princess.&nbsp; She knew there was not much she could say to ease and quiet all of the doubts inside of her head.&nbsp; Lyra just hoped and prayed that her mere presence would be enough to help her through the evening.&nbsp; She felt nervous for the Princess as she could not understand what it would be like to go to such an elicit meeting.&nbsp; Nibbling on her bottom lip, she follow Dawn to the drawer to watch the Royal go through her lingerie.<br><br>Picking up the stray items, Lyra's feminine curiosity got the best of her as she looked at the silky panties.&nbsp; She had never seen anything so revealing in her life as it caused a deep blush to rise up her cheeks.&nbsp; The innocent handmaiden was obviously out of her league as these types of garments did not fit her class in any form.&nbsp; She was much too simple to ever deserve such treasures.&nbsp; Putting the stray pair of panties back with the others, she looked at the one that Dawn had chosen.<br><br>"I do believe that he will have a near impossible time from averting his gaze, my lady.&nbsp; It shows just enough to make him want more, but not enough to see it all.&nbsp; You have excellent tastes, Princess.&nbsp; Even if you are a bit more...wilder than myself."<br><br>With a wink and a playful smile, the young handmaiden nudged Dawn with her hip as they stood before the lingerie drawer.&nbsp; Lyra was clearly the more old fashioned of the two of them along with being the less experience, so seeing all of these beautiful garments was something she was not used too.&nbsp; In her case, she would gladly accept the 'old maid' role.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>29-01-2010, 00:49:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The blond found a smile tugging on her lips as Lyra responded and she hugged her handmaiden tightly, shaking her head. "I don't get Seelie customs keeping you all pinned up so properly in place, if we ever get out of the sitherns I'm going to give you a make over. I see no reason you couldn't wear things like I do, and trust me, I'm not wild."<br><br>Dawn laughed then, wondering what Lyranna would make of some of the mortal young women she remembered from college at Columbia, or even the ones she saw in the streets of New York City. It was a whole other world, truly and one she think would be good for not only her friend Lyranna but also her guards. Let them see how she handled the mortal modern world, she was not at all lost there. She heard a knock on the door then, and the familiar voice of the Harpist sounded through it. "Princess Dawn?"<br><br>"I'll be out in a minute, let the rest know I want a escort ready once Lyranna gets back." She called out in response, plucking up the bra that went with the panties and worrying her lower lip as she tried to think if she had a robe that would go with them. But for now the Seelie princess turned her attention to her handmaiden. <br><br>"I know you dislike drawing attention to yourself but I need to ask you for something dearest, I can't go and find where he is, so if you would go and tell the Slaugh King that I am ready to see him and ask where it would be a great help. I would ask one of the men but I fear....well you know."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>03-02-2010, 20:54:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Princess....I...."<br><br>The nerves of the young handmaiden shot through her veins like a jolt of electricity.&nbsp; It ran through her arms and then grabbed a hold of her poor stomach.&nbsp; She blushed furiously which contrasted with the extreme pristine white lace of her long dress.&nbsp; She could never imagine herself wearing anything remotely close to Dawn nor would she appear attractive in that way.&nbsp; She was much too modest and no man would ever be interested in Lyranna in such a state of undress.&nbsp; Quickly and for the best, she let the thought escape her mind as her scared reverie was shattered by the knock on the door.<br><br>Lyra's shimmering eyes became as wide as the moon as Dawn's request left her lips.&nbsp; Lyra knew that she had to obey the Princess as it was an order, but that was just simply too much to ask for her.&nbsp; Feeling her knees begin to quiver in fear, Lyra grabbed the wrists of her friend as the fear took over any thoughts of embarrassment.&nbsp; Being alone with the Slaugh King was way too intimidating for the young girl as her soft and shaking voice left her lips.<br><br>"Princess, please!&nbsp; There must be somebody else.&nbsp; I must stay here with you.&nbsp; I.......I.....I just can't....."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>04-02-2010, 00:56:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fionn skidded to a halt outside of the Princess' chambers just as the door opened and Lyra appeared. The Seelie's eyes widened and then darkened, and his gaze fell on the floor. <br><br>"She is ready, isn't she?" he said, not needing an answer. Were it not for the fact that he cared deeply for Dawn, he would gather his belongings immediately and depart the Sithern without a word to anyone. He knew the Slaugh King could not be trusted, knew this was all a terrible idea, knew it because something in the pit of his chest was twisting and knotting as he stood there. "Sometimes, I wonder why I bothered to come back at all." <br><br>As Lyra departed to fetch the Slaugh King, Fionn knocked on Dawn's door. It was something he knew was a severe breach in etiquette, interrupting the Princess when she was expecting a male caller, but in his slightly inebriated state, he figured he was already in enough trouble to last a lifetime, and the worst she could do would be to ban him from the Sithern, where he didn't particularly want to be in this moment anyway. Opening the door slightly, he closed his eyes, opting not to enter. <br><br>"I'm not here to tell you this is a mistake, despite my feelings that it is just that," Fionn said, his voice clear but gentle. "You are the Princess, and I a mere guard; not even commander of the guards. When I spoke earlier, I acted in a way that was detrimental to your leadership, and I cannot do more than ask forgiveness for that. I am humbly in your service, and will do what you require of me. But please, as a friend, I ask you to be careful tonight."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>19-02-2010, 07:56:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dawn nearly had to fight the urge to flinch at the expression that crossed her friend's face; yet she truly did not understand the fear for the Slaugh. Yes, they were dark and wild, but then to her all of the fey was to an extent, and they at least were more honest about what they wanted and how they went about it then the Seelie were at times. Not that any of her guards or ladies would be overly happy to hear that sentiment leave her lips, and so she kept that belief to herself. Instead she steeled herself inside and put sincere need and pleading in her eyes, because she could not ask anyone but Lyra to do this for her. <br><br>"He will not hurt you, I swear that on my own name may the Goddess strike me if I lie. He wouldn't dare, after all you are <em>my</em> handmaiden and he wants this meeting just as I do, otherwise he wouldn't have agreed to it. I need you to go, if one of the men did it would only cause a fight or worse and I need a alliance. Please Lyra, my cousin already has advantages, I need all the help I can get to keep myself ahead in this game of politics."<br><br>"Please...I do not ask this lightly...." She murmured again, her tone pleading and she let some of her own nerves and fear show in her expression, breaking the smooth facade that she so often presented to everyone else. Only to have it vanished when the door opened and Fionn appeared in the gap. <br><br>Her midnight gem eyes narrowed and she stood straight and stiff, unsure of what this would mean. His opening words had a sharp retort forming on her lips, after all he should understand what it meant to play to the whims of Kings, but then he was male and male's weapons of choice were never this. "I will be careful Fionn, but I bargain for us all, not just myself lest you forget that. You think Aria will be wasting her time? Would you see her crowned? Think before you speak, for all that I care deeply for you I have to keep us all safe and this is part of it."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>22-02-2010, 19:46:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fionn winced; she was right once again, and he knew it. <br><br>"I understand that," he murmured, fighting to keep the pain out of his voice, "I just felt I should ask. You asked me to become your guard to protect you, which is all I was trying to do. I'm not going to try to stop you; we both know that would do much more harm than good. But should things turn in a way that you do not like, please, simply call and your trio of faithful guards will be to your side in moments."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>26-02-2010, 17:20:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lyra watched the brief moment of relapse in her true friend's face and realized that she was now firm in her decision.&nbsp; Despite her personal opinions on the matter, Lyra became very aware of her position.&nbsp; She had no power.&nbsp; She was just a simple handmaiden and she was refusing an order by royalty that she was supposed to watch.&nbsp; Surely, if the elders ever caught wind of her reluctance, she would be relieved of her position in a very quick and painless order.&nbsp; Swallowing the large lump in her throat, Lyra knew what she had to do.&nbsp; It may have gone against every fiber of her being, but a request had been made and she must comply.<br><br>"Yes, Princess.&nbsp; I will depart this instant..."<br><br>The white lace of her veil covered her face slightly as she lowered it to the floor.&nbsp; Bending her knees slightly in a small curtsy, the handmaiden fluttered past the knight in a flurry of her flowing dress.&nbsp; Thankfully, the fear tried to hide on her face as her skin grew to match the color of her dress.&nbsp; Feeling her heart jump into her throat, Lyra left the suite and went in search of the Slaugh King.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>06-03-2010, 19:17:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It hurt her, to press Lyranna into this, to make her friend do something she so feared but who else did she have to trust? Not the men, no not them except perhaps Gwyidon and even he outsider of both courts that he was to an extent was needed closer to her. And sending a man to bid the attention of the King of the Slaugh? No, that would never do, nor a warrior, which her Harpist was though he would deny it. Roarke might have done, for he was not a warrior and of the Unseelie, who knows mayhap he would have even been friends with the King. But he was obviously otherwise occupied. Anger filled her at that but she shoved it away, know the reason for it was the hurt that lingered beneath it. <br><br>Men. <br><br>Her eyes tracked Lyra's departure, silent as the handmaiden vanished and her expression was drawn when she looked at Fionn again, midnight sky eyes heavy with thoughts and duty. They had asked this of her, all those who had sworn themselves to her, to be the Princess and yet they now discovered that that might entail more then they wanted, giving more then they thought. She wanted to shut them all out and just go back to being a reporter, but she couldn't.<br><br>"I will call if I have need but I will not force you to this burden that is mine to bear. I am the Princess, I must do what is good for all of us and...as much as you may hate me for saying it I do not think I will hate or dislike what happens this evening."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>09-03-2010, 21:30:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I do not hate you," he said, "It is a necessary evil; I merely wanted to make you aware of the dangers, as my job would require me to do. I bid you the best of luck in your endeavors this evening." With that, Fionn had departed, her door closed softly behind him. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>17-03-2010, 22:15:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lyra had to get back to safety.&nbsp; She needed to be away from prying eyes and all of the eyes that were now living in darkness.&nbsp; The Slaugh King lived in the darkness and she was certain that his minions were following her as she ran back to the suite.&nbsp; Desperately, she needed to shield herself from their eyes and to find comfort once again.&nbsp; She had to tell Dawn what she had seen and what she had felt.<br><br>It was when she reached the door that she finally stopped.&nbsp; Suddenly, all of her training came back to her as she was reminded that her personal feelings were of no matter to the Princess.&nbsp; Lyra must not scare Dawn anymore than she already had felt.&nbsp; What had happened to her was of no consequence to the Princess as her decision had already been made.&nbsp; Her experience would only make her unnecessarily uneasy and that is something that Lyra could not do.&nbsp; Swallowing all of her pride and emotions, Lyra rearranged herself before presenting herself to the Princess.&nbsp; She moved the lace of her shroud around her neck to desperately cover the red mark on her neck, even though she was certain it could be clearly seen.&nbsp; With one last breath, Lyra opened the door and finally returned to the friendly confines of the suite.<br><br>"Princess?&nbsp; Princess, I have returned..."<br><br>Her voice was frail and shaking as she could not cover up the fear at all.&nbsp; In fact, she felt more fragile now than ever before.&nbsp; Cursed that Slaugh King and how he took away all of her strength.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>18-03-2010, 05:46:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dawn sank down onto the edge of her large bed, trembling with the force of her hurt and anger. It welled in her almost like a living thing and she wanted to weep or scream or throw something; but those were not things that Princesses did, no, not for her anymore. God, or rather, Goddess, she wished she could just let go and curse, to tell people exactly what she thought, how she felt. Damn politics, they were not that interesting when one had to live their life by them. Suddenly she had a fit of empathy for all the people she had once reported on. It was a wonder that most leader's didn't go fucking insane. <br><br>The blond just focused on her breathing, on trying to find some well of calm and peace within herself to cling to because she just couldn't go to the King of the Slaugh like this. He deserved more then that, and she would have to give her best if she wanted anything to come from the night outside of some frisky fun. And he would give her fun, because for once it wouldn't be her having to tip toe around people's emotions, agreeing to see him had already been the worst she could do. Now her guards lingered, unsure, shaky. Gwyidon knocked and entered, coming to her side silently and she threw herself into the red haired man's arms, shaking. He held her, singing softly as his Harpist's voice soothed her down and he rocked her, giving her the only peace he could give her. The other men wouldn't listen to him, after all he was here only for her, not of either court, having forsaken them long ago for the mortal world. Her rockstar. Her fingers buried themselves in the richness of his flame colored hair, the texture still that surreal one, finer then silk itself, that it had been all those years ago when they had first met, when she was five. He had been the first sidhe she met, her first lover, her first in so many things. <br><br>And yet Connal was the one she had dreamed of. And Fionn was the one to make her laugh. And Roarke was the one that made her...so many things. What would Cernunnos&nbsp; do to her? What gift would he give her that other men had yet to?<br><br>"Dawn, what you do is what needs to be done, you can't change that. Anymore then you can change the fact that their disapproval hurts or the fact that they can't understand you." She tilted her head back, gazing up at him, at his eyes that reminded her of lightning storms. One of his hands touched the side of her cheek and she turned her face into her, midnight eyes fixed upon him as she spoke in response. <br><br>"No...I can't but I can wish it was other then it is. That's all I can do, that and what I know is right, is best for us all." He smiled then and she felt it touch something inside her which summoned a wan smile to her own lips. Then the door was opened and Lyra slipped inside. Dawn stilled, not withdrawing from Gwydion's arms, she needed his reassurance too badly to do so. At least until she saw how her friend was feeling, the shakes and the voice that seemed to whisper and break upon fear. She went to her, straight to the other woman's side and hugged her tightly. <br><br>"I'm so sorry Lyra...please forgive me for asking you to do something like this but I had no one else." She plead with her voice, hoping her friend would believe her. Hoping she would know the empathy that lay in Dawn's own heart, for wasn't Cerridwyn doing something she feared and resented nearly every moment of the court politics? And her game was so much more risky, it was upon her head that the fates of all of them rested. "I can never thank you enough for what you have done."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>22-03-2010, 22:48:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As much as Lyra tried, she could not hide the fear that was tingling inside of her young body.&nbsp; Her heart was still beating constantly inside of her chest and she was certain it would explode at any moment.&nbsp; The fear had zapped any color away from her skin as it made the red mark on her neck even more prevalent as it was shrouded against the delicate lace.&nbsp; Lyra wanted so hard to put on a smiling face and a comforting smile for the Princess.&nbsp; She was the handmaiden and she was supposed to help her out in anyway possible.&nbsp; She was supposed to be the strong one and the pillar of strength.&nbsp; She wasn't supposed to show emotion or even cause worry to the Princess.<br><br>Hiding her emotions, she hugged the royal lady tightly in her embrace as her touch soothed her beating heart.&nbsp; Her touch was comforting and felt like home to the scared handmaiden.&nbsp; Swallowing the lump in her throat, she held onto her as she made sure that she would never let her go.&nbsp; It was imperative that she show that she is the rock and that the Princess would no longer have to worry about her.<br><br>"Princess, there is no need for your concern.&nbsp; I apologize for I should have been more willing to accept my duties.&nbsp; I understand what had to be done and I am sorry for my reluctance."<br><br>Her voice got a little bit more calm and she was able to speak without it shaking.&nbsp; Holding the Princess tightly, she smiled warmly again and nodded her head to her.<br><br>"He is ready to see you.&nbsp; I will show you the path to his Suite whenever you are ready..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>29-03-2010, 22:36:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She did not deserve the people who were loyal to her, who cared for her, like Lyra. But she would be worthy of them, she would be the Princess they needed as they gave of themselves to make her life in this strange world even a little better, it was all she could do. The blond hugged her handmaiden tightly before pulling away, touching gently upon the other girl's cheek with a ghost of a smile tugging her lips. "It is always my concern dearest, for that is what a good leader is, the concern that watches over those that follow them. I may be new at this but I won't shirk my duties nor what I owe you. I can not say how grateful I am that you did this for me."<br><br>Dawn sighed as Lyra said she would show her the way, her own heart picking up a beat as she pulled away from her friend to go to the mirror, to stare at the cascade of her starlight curls, at the brightness of the gems of her eyes and the luminosity of her skin. Her whole appearance screamed sidhe. Her hands lifted, carefully undoing the pins that held her hair up for the ball, letting it free, but leaving the tiara that twinkled amid the splendor of her hair. She was a princess. She needed to remember that, as did the others. Goddess help them all. For a moment she lingered, Gwydion came to her, touching her shoulder, their eyes meeting in the mirror, his blue eyes searching hers and she summoned a smile to her lips.<br><br>"Let us go. Gwydion, please fetch Connal." The Harpist nodded and moved off to do so, even as Dawn carefully slid her feet into dove gray heels, matching nearly her undergarments and pulled a loose silk robe around herself to cover her skin. She couldn't walk through the corridors half nude after all. She focused on her breathing, on her purpose, trying not to over think.<br><br>"Lead the way Lyra, I'm as ready as I'll ever be."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>06-04-2010, 22:20:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Looking towards Dawn, Lyra had to swallow the large lump in her throat.&nbsp; The burning red mark on her neck from the Slaugh King branded her body and was only a precursor of what he was capable of.&nbsp; Lyra had a mount of doubts of what the young princess was getting herself into with him.&nbsp; Surely, she had no idea of the depths that he could easily inflict onto her.&nbsp; Lyra had already experience just a taste of him and she was terribly afraid of Dawn getting the main course.&nbsp; But, she was only a handmaiden and it would be terribly wrong for her to speak up her opinions to her grace.&nbsp; She had to keep mouth shut and play the course.<br><br>Dawn looked so perfect and beautiful in Lyra's eyes.&nbsp; She would be amazed if any man could reject her as she radiated a beauty that transcended the ages.&nbsp; She could almost imagine the Slaugh King's licking his lips at the meal that was about to be presented to him.&nbsp; With a cautious nod, Lyra began to lead Dawn outside of the room.&nbsp; However, before she could only make a step, she couldn't let her friend go in so blindly.&nbsp; Making sure that the two girls were all alone, Lyra stopped suddenly and turned to Dawn.&nbsp; With the wide eyes that showcased the burning red, she took the Princess' hand and began to almost plead with her.<br><br>"Dawn, your highness, my dear, please be careful.&nbsp; He is a dangerous man and one that cannot be trusted.&nbsp; Do not let your guard down when you are with him...."<br><br>Lyra let go of the Princess' hand and slowly began to push the shroud away from her neck to reveal the large red mark that had been left by the Slaugh King.&nbsp; The imprint of his teeth was clear as day as the bright red mark showed like a blemish on her beautiful skin.&nbsp; Swallowing the lump in her throat, she looked down to the floor in front of her.<br><br>"He......He....He gave me.......this key....."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>09-04-2010, 20:43:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When they left the room she felt her purpose settle around her, trusting that the Harper would gather the other men before they made their way completely to the Slaugh King, they couldn't truly be so upset that they left her to go by herself could they? She was doing this for them, for all of them. And perhaps for herself too to a point, to prove that she could make choices without them, that she was the one in charge. And well, she wasn't terrified of him, at least not in a bad way; her thoughts moved to the dance she had shared with the King, how helpful and insightful he had been, and how handsome. His darkling power summoned something from within her that she would not deny. But then Lyra turned to her, to plead and she blinked, in surprise. <br><br>"I..." she bit her lower lip as her friend spoke, trying to warn her. He was dangerous but one had to trust, it was lack of trust that had the sidhe were they were now, to an extent she thought. Lack of trust even in the Goddess herself. When her eyes found the red mark on her friend's skin she reached to touch it softly, eyes softening. "I am sorry then, for asking you to go to him. But I place my trust in the Goddess, she will hold me safe."<br><br>Dawn smiled softly and then started walking, toward the garden's, no one was supporting this choice, but it would be done.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>14-04-2010, 19:39:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fionn wandered in a sort of daze through the halls and corridors near Dawn's chambers. His mind had blurred; in many ways, he felt as though he had failed the princess; he had, after all, been asked to protect her from harm, and that harm was certain to befall her at some point in the evening, whether Cernunnos meant for it to happen or not. He leaned against a wall, as the voices of his princess and her handmaiden could be heard in a distant hallway. He sank slowly to the floor, head in his hands until well after their voices had drifted out of earshot. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>22-04-2010, 23:17:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The mark on Lyra's neck was still warm to the touch of the sweet Princess.&nbsp; Watching her turn and go, Lyra realized that her decision had already been made.&nbsp; There was nothing left for her to do as she had already pleaded her case.&nbsp; The handmaiden could not force the royal to change her mind as it was her duty to support her decision no longer the consequence.&nbsp; So, with all of the power inside of her, Lyra swallowed the fear inside of her throat and followed the Princess away from the safety and sanctity of their suite.&nbsp; It was time for Dawn to meet her fate.<br><br>Leading Dawn across the nearly empty Hall, she lead her to the exact spot that had been pointed out by him.&nbsp; The wind rustled softly against the lace of her gown as she stood ready for whatever were to happen.&nbsp; She pointed to the darkest shadows of the forest and gave her the instructions that were left by her.<br><br>"Go towards the shadows, Princess.&nbsp; Speak his name and he shall appear..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>24-04-2010, 04:14:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				No one liked this idea, no one supported her but she could not turn back, and no did she want to. By this point she was starting to wonder how much of this was because this did need to be done and how much was because she was being her normal, stubborn self. Dawn had grown up a willful child, doing what she thought was right, regardless of what others said and often because they said she shouldn't or couldn't do something. Part of her just had the need to prove that her way was indeed the right way. And her people would just have to get use to it, they would have to trust her. Maybe one day.<br><br>Her footsteps were confident, something she wasn't completely inside but half of feeling confident was a facade, a bravo, as a journalist she had learned how to bluff with the best and all with a face as sweet as an angel. Her chin came up as they left the main part of the building for the gardens that seemed full of a wild beauty. Her eyes followed the direction of her handmaiden's finger, pointing to the darkness of the forest. The princess nodded at the instructions Lyra gave her, reaching to squeeze the young sidhe's hand softly. "Try not to worry too much dear, and if you can find Connal and the others let them know where I went, I promise I'll see you in the morning." <br><br>She tried to be reassuring, to be regal before she started walking again, this time alone, through the grass of the garden, toward the darkest, deepest and wildest part of it that seemed almost like forest, her heart hammering in her breast and a nervous excitement stealing through her bones. She was really going to do this. And enjoy it. That made the smile spread, quirk her lips and she came to a halt before the darkest shadows, inhaling deeply and sensing the magic of the area like a living thing almost. <br><br>"Cernunnos" His name dropped from her lips like a gem to sparkle in the night, a breath, a sigh, his name said the way a lover would say it, though she was not his lover yet. Part of her had felt the need to say something more like 'King Cernunnos, I am here', but that was too formal, too over the top for what this was, for the basic magic that it would call. So simple, deep, she waited, in those shadows, her hair gleaming and eyes bright. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>29-04-2010, 21:04:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lyra could not move an inch from her spot in front of the darkness.&nbsp; The red mark on her neck still burned in her mind of a reminder of the dangers inside that were hiding in the blackness.&nbsp; The young handmaiden also knew of her place as she could not stop the Princess from going forwards any longer.&nbsp; She had spoken her mind, but it was obvious not enough to change the royal's mind.&nbsp; Keeping her bright eyes, she slowly watched as the Princess fade into the blackness.<br><br>"Be Safe...My Friend..."<br><br>Lyra spoke quietly and more to herself as she stood in the empty gardens.&nbsp; In a blink of time, it appeared as if she had been the only one out here.&nbsp; In a few brief moments, Lyra was all alone.&nbsp; Turning around, Lyra pulled the shroud close to her as she went back towards the Suite alone.&nbsp; The night was growing thick and she was much too tired from today's actions.&nbsp; Lyra needed to rest and keep her mind off of what was happening to Dawn.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>05-05-2010, 01:04:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fionn could hear the soft clap of footsteps on the stone floor, and rose to his feet, eyes darkened. <br><br>"Time to go back," he muttered, and managed to beat the footsteps to the suite. When it was Lyra, and Lyra alone who opened the door into the sitting room, Fionn sighed heavily. <br><br>"She went alone," he said, in a tone that sounded more resigned than accusatory, "Didn't she? Oh well, I suppose there was no stopping her, after all."<br><br>It was then Fionn noticed the large red bite mark on Lyra's neck. "You're hurt!" he exclaimed, jumping to his feet, hands already beginning to glow. "Here, let me help you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>09-05-2010, 20:37:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lyra almost jumped out of her white silk dress when she heard somebody show up behind her.&nbsp; Certainly, she thought it was one of the King's minions to try and protect his new prize.&nbsp; However, a sigh of relief came over the handmaiden when she saw that it was just one of the knights.&nbsp; Turning her head away from him and back to the stone floor, she muttered her soft and disappointing words.<br><br>"The Princess would not heed my advice..."<br><br>Sighing for a moment, she closed her eyes as she was desperately trying to forget what was happening to Dawn at this very moment.&nbsp; However, the knight's movements shook her again as her hand instantly went up to the bright red mark that the Slaugh King gave her on her neck.<br><br>"It's fine!&nbsp; What are you going to do??"<br><br>Nervously, Lyra's red eyes began to swirl in fear as she took a few steps away from the approaching knight.&nbsp; Her fear and untrustworthy nature began to show her true fear.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>18-05-2010, 04:44:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Relax," he said softly, his eyes soft and friendly. "I'm certainly not going to hurt you; I'm simply going to heal that awful bite on your neck."<br><br>He smiled gently at her, lowering his hands as the glow dimmed somewhat. "Unless, of course," he said, "You'd rather I didn't, in which case I shall leave you to your own devices."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>24-05-2010, 21:09:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				For a moment, the scared handmaiden thought about trusting the knight.&nbsp; He seemed like a decent and trustworthy fellow, plus with his stature as a reference to his nobility.&nbsp; But, Lyra's defenses could not be swayed away that easily.&nbsp; He was still a stranger to her and the Slaugh King had raised her walls to new heights.&nbsp; Pulling the lace shroud close to her face, she looked away from him and his offer towards her.<br><br>"You don't have to help me.&nbsp; It is no bother and you should save your energy for somebody...with more stature..."<br><br>Lyra was and always will be just a handmaiden.&nbsp; Shyly, she moved away from him and deeper into the suite towards her room as she continued her notion of turning in for the night.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>01-06-2010, 01:36:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Please," Fionn exclaimed, reaching towards her, "I'm only trying to help you. I assure you it won't hurt in the slightest, if that is your concern." There was concern visible in his eyes; and a hint of pain from an era long since passed. "If you do not trust me because you do not know me, allow me to introduce myself. I am Fionn, second in command of Dawn's guard, and I mean you no harm, m'lady."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>10-06-2010, 21:32:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>'M'Lady?'</em><br><br>Surely, Lyra thought that this knight had taken way too many strikes to his head.&nbsp; Why would he treat a simple handmaiden with such respect and dignity?&nbsp; Her stature was below his and he should be shameful to speak with pride to a servant.&nbsp; With the sincerity burrowing into her ear, Lyra paused in her steps.&nbsp; He had destroyed any doubt in her mind as she knew that a protector of Dawn could not be evil.&nbsp; With a final breath, her hands reached up to the lace and pulled it back to reveal the full extent of her bite mark.<br><br>"If it is your desire, then I will not stop you, Sir Fionn."<br><br>Lyra couldn't speak her name or her title to him.&nbsp; She didn't want him to know that she was just a lowly handmaiden.&nbsp; At least not until he performed his healing...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>17-06-2010, 00:26:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Have a seat," Fionn said kindly, gesturing towards one of the overstuffed lounge chairs that were scattered about the room. "And please, it's just Fionn, save the formalities for the arrogant, pompous members of court who relish such things."<br><br>His hands glowed softly, the white light slowly engulfing his forearms before stopping. He took a seat directly in front of her, smiling reassuringly.<br><br>"This won't hurt," he said softly, his face mere inches from hers. "I never did get your name, miss..." He placed his hands on the wound, and closed his eyes concentrating on what needed to be done. The glow spread from Fionn's hands to Lyra's neck, slowly engulfing the bright red marks on her pale skin.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>21-06-2010, 22:08:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Nodding softly, Lyra moved towards the extravagant chair and had herself a seat.&nbsp; Sitting on the edge as the plush and expensive piece of furniture was not her style, she desperately tried to keep her nerves in tact.&nbsp; A part of her felt strange to be in Dawn's suite while she is with the Slaugh King.&nbsp; Also, conversing with her personal knight when he should be occupied with more important activities.&nbsp; However, the stinging of her mark refused to die and she would like it to disappear.<br><br>"I am.....Lyra.&nbsp; I am....Dawn's personal handmaiden..."<br><br>She had to be honest with him.&nbsp; She also remembered meeting him earlier for just a moment, so she couldn't really hide herself from him.&nbsp; Folding her hands on top of her chattering knees, she desperately tried to calm herself.&nbsp; With her bottom lip quivering, she closed her eyes so tightly that nothing could escape from their lids.&nbsp; Holding her breath, she quickly waited for the moment to end as she suddenly felt his hand touch her normally pale skin.&nbsp; Preparing for a jolt of shock or pain, Lyra was certain that she would break right there in front of him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>28-06-2010, 18:16:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fionn was entirely focused on his task, eyes barely closed. He could feel the light focusing on each specific tooth mark, filling them withe the purifying light. After several minutes, he opened his eyes, the light receding to reveal her clean neck, with visible marks nowhere to be seen.<br><br>"There," he said, smiling softly at her, "That didn't hurt at all, now did it, Lyra?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>03-07-2010, 20:41:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				For the few minutes, Lyra did not breathe.&nbsp; Her entire body paused and she tried to contain her trembling.&nbsp; Her skin felt slightly numb and warm at the same time as the bright light permeated against her skin.&nbsp; Counting in her head and waiting for the pain to stop, the heat seemed to stop in a sudden and brief moment.&nbsp; Quickly, she pressed her hand against her warm skin to feel all of the marks have disappeared.&nbsp; Feeling around her neck, she could only feel the smoothness and a slight warmth from the healing.<br><br>Her soft eyes went wide as a smile crept across her lips.&nbsp; Looking up to him, she was amazed that it had worked and that it didn't cause an ounce of pain.<br><br>"Thank you..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All - The Seelie Suite</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>06-07-2010, 21:28:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"My pleasure, m'lady," he said with a soft smile, eyes bright. "I cannot fathom why he would harm one as beautiful as yourself, though." He reached up, brushing a strand of hair from her cheek. <br><br>"I trust it wasn't painful?" he murmured, fingers tracing her neck lightly. 
			</dd>
		</dl>
		<div id="footer" class="smalltext">
			
			<span class="smalltext" style="display: inline; visibility: visible; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?action=credits" title="Simple Machines Forum" target="_blank" class="new_win">SMF 2.0.19</a> |
 <a href="https://www.simplemachines.org/about/smf/license.php" title="License" target="_blank" class="new_win">SMF © 2021</a>, <a href="https://www.simplemachines.org" title="Simple Machines" target="_blank" class="new_win">Simple Machines</a>
			</span>
		</div>