» Sat Oct 15, 2011 10:11 pm
Here is a snip from Episode 69 of Buffy’s Journal that opens with an article from the Courier -
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Black Horse Courier
DINNER PARTY MARRED BY PRANKSTER!
Leyawiin - - Countess Alessia Caro held another of her formal dinner parties recently. We have often reported these events as somewhat dull, somber affairs. This one however was revealingly different.
At some point well into the evening, an unknown assailant cast a spell that literally stripped the event of its dreary predictability. In fact, the mischievous magic quite removed every bit of clothing from the lovely Countess and her fellow diners. The guest list included the Invels, well known members of high society from The Imperial City. Other nobles traveled from as far away as the City of the Great Oak to attend. Even one of Leyawiin's own knights, who was a guest at the dinner, fell victim to the spell.
Speculation is rife regarding possible motivation for the assault. Leyawiin is a city well- known for tension between Argonians and Khajiit. Rumors even exist of the Countess' own dislike for the beast races. When asked about a possible connection, a spokesman for the castle flatly denied any such rumors as idle and malicious gossip.
The commander of the Leywiin Guard, Captain Caelia Draconis, has ordered increased patrols, and launched an investigation in the wake of this grave breach of castle security. Given the lack of any evidence to identify the perpetrator, no arrest has yet been made.
Hildara Mothril, the Countess' personal assistant and advisor, made a brief statement confirming that Lady Leyawiin has no dinner parties planned for the near future. The Countess herself was unavailable for comment.
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"Captain, give me your report," demanded Marius Caro. "Have you caught the criminal?"
"Not yet, Your Lordship." The Imperial's mail was adorned by the white stallion-emblazened surcoat of a Leyawiin guard. Her dark blond hair was severely drawn back into a tidy bun affixed to the back of her head. A Legion blade, with silver crossguard and pommel hung from her sword belt. "My men have interviewed the entire staff and have yet to turn up any leads. The only unusual person in the castle last night was that reporter. His credentials and noninvolvement have been confirmed."
"Bah! Reporters." The Count snatched up a copy of the Black Horse Courier from the empty throne next to his own and angrily waved it. "No doubt responsible for this!" He then noticed my presence. "I wish I could say good afternoon, Buffy, but this is a dark day indeed. Forgive my manners. Dame Buffy, this is Caelia Draconis, Captain of the Leyawiin Guard."
Captain Draconis and I nodded to each other. The Count then addressed those assembled in his throne room, "I would have a word privately with Dame Buffy. Please excuse us for a moment." The small entourage moved into the great hall, leaving the Count and I alone with a sole bodyguard, who melted discretely just out of earshot.
Marius Caro's face softened somewhat as he gestured toward the vacant throne beside him. "Sit."
My eyes flew open wide. "Milord?"
"I'm not promoting you. Just sit."
With a soft jingle of mail, I did as ordered.
"Buffy, I'm sorry for the embarrassment this fiasco caused you last night. I might find naked nobles humorous, but such an assault to the dignity of one of my knights is another matter. As you can see, we are doing everything we can to identify and bring the perpetrator to justice. The Countess and I will, of course, compensate you for the loss of your gown. Alessia is humiliated and refuses to leave our bedchambers. Her guests all left Leyawiin in a huff."
"My condolences to Her Ladyship," I lied sympathetically. "Please do not worry yourself on my account, Milord. I'm a wood elf and quite used to wearing only my skin."
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