It Takes a Wolf

Chapter 20: The Winter Palace

Ellen and her party had arrived at the Winter Palace before dusk and though she always admired the beauty this place held, she couldn't help but feel dread. She looked to the castles steeple, preparing herself for the fictitious prelude she was sure to become part of. When they entered the gates they were greeted by a man, wearing a golden mask. "Ah! Lady Inquisitor, Ambassador Josephine, I am pleased you have taken some time to join us at one of our little soirees." He bowed.

Ellen and her party bowed politely to him. "The pleasure is ours, Duke Gaspard." Ellen said sweetly.

Gaspard grinned. "Please, let me have one of the servants show you to your quarters." He said, turning around snapping his fingers at a young elven woman. "You! Show our guests of honor to their rooms." He ordered.

"Yes, my Lord." She replied meekly, rushing to them with a quick bow. "Follow me your graces."

They followed the maid through exquisite corridors lined with marble statues and oiled art paintings. When Ellen entered her room a small gasp left her and her eyes grew wide, it was unlike anything she had ever seen. Gold was displayed in every corner, solid vases, the wall trimmings, nobs, statuettes. The ceiling itself stood higher than most Cathedrals. Her eyes scanned over the refinery when they drifted to the bed with complete shock. It was so massive she was sure her entire party could all sleep in it without fear of touching each other.

While she continued to look around the room Josephine knocked at the door. "Lady Inquisitor may I come in?"

"Yes." Ellen said, looking up at the ceiling in awe when Josephine entered, closing the door behind her.

"Inquisitor, a moment if you please." She said with a serious expression.

"Of course, what is it?" Ellen replied curiously.

"I am sure you know how to handle most of nobility, but The Game is unlike any other political play in the world. It is no simple matter of etiquette or protocol. Everything you do or say is measured and evaluated for weakness. The Game is played to the death, you must never reveal your cards. When you socialize with the nobility, the eyes of the entire court will be on you. You would be safer in The Fade with a fear demon. So, please, just be careful." Josephine warned.

"We will be fine, but if it makes you feel any better I will warn the others as well." Ellen offered.

"No worries, already done." Josephine breathed a sigh of relief.

"Ellie it's time!" Dorian sang, bursting in the room with excitement. He was dressed in a gold velour jacket and blue streamlined slacks. His hair was the same, combed perfectly, not a strand out of place.

"You look dashing Dorian." Ellen smiled.

"Don't I always?" Dorian grinned arrogantly, holding her dress and shoes in each hand. "Now come, we must get you ready, Orleasians are anything but patient." Dorian said, shutting the door.

--*--

Fenris put on his suit and stood before the mirror, studying his reflection. He tugged slightly at the hem of the black jacket, aligning the stand collar and silver buttons lined down the front. He smoothed his hand over the satin navy blue sash worn across his torso, looking down at the firmly pressed navy slacks, wiggling his toes inside the black leather shoes on his feet. He wasn't used to seeing himself in such attire, he had never worn anything like it in his life actually. He felt...vulnerable with the lack of protection his armor always gave.

Cullen knocked quickly and entered his room. "You ready to go Fenris? He asked, closing the door. When he turned to him his brows raised in shock. "Well, well, well, looks like you can clean up nicely." Cullen teased, elbowing him in the arm.