[Aynia]

Walsh bowed and scurried away, relieved to be finished with his task and anxious to return to his post and gossip. As the group approached the top of the steps they could see a set of large double doors, easily as tall as two men. Intricate stonework surrounded the doors, with Syvisan and Fae lettering and depictions of historical scenes and the elements. Standing directly in front of the castle now, and seeing it up close was astounding. The stone walls gleamed almost blinding under the sunlight, the castle itself reaching high into the sky proud and tall. Castle Bastion truly was a sight to behold, and often stunned those who visited it for the first time.

At the base of each door stood a guard, each coming to attention after spotting the group approaching. Silently they swung open each large door to let the group through to the entrance hall. Stepping through the front doors of Bastion, the group was greeted with luxurious silk curtains draping themselves over gleaming white walls and hanging from dark wood ceilings, full cushions and lounges for sitting and small tables where a few people could gather and chat together. There were doorways on all sides of the room, leading to more chambers or hallways eventually winding to the main living chambers of the Monarchy in the heart of the castle. The castle was well lit and a pleasant temperature inside. Large artworks hung on the stone walls next to tapestries, showing the royal family, notable figures of the region, as well as scenes from the history of Syvisa and Caer Sidi alike. The silvery stone floors were decorated with blue and green runners, their paths dotted with native plants in bronze planters.
 

As the doors swung open and the group passed through, a man seemed to materialize in front of them, though whether they just suddenly noticed him or whether he actually materialized out of thin air was unknown. He had dark hair and even darker eyes, the smile of a Chesire cat and the manners of the most learned gentleman. His voice was calm and soothing yet carried through out the room as he introduced himself after a deep bow.

"If I may welcome you to Bastion, my friends! We have been preparing since we received word you'd come into port. My name is Alexander, and I am at your service. If you would prefer to dismiss your retinue, I can have a housemaid see them to the dining area where we've prepared a selection of meats and cheeses. Then I can escort you to the appropriate sitting room for your meeting with Her Majesty." He signalled to a maid as the group was dismissed and led the remaining men out of the room and down a hallway before climbing a set of stairs and leading them to one last door. He swung the door open and outstretched an arm for them to enter.

"If you will just be patient a few moments more, the Queen will be with you shortly." With a final bow he shut the door to the room and the group had a chance to look around. It seemed to be a medium sized meeting room, with a large, long table in the center surrounded by chairs. There was a large hand drawn map of the Warren in the center, with various notes and symbols drawn over it in ink. Tokens were laid out representing scouting reports and areas known to be inhabited by the creatures of Chaosium. Carved pieces representing the present holdfasts were scattered across the map. Parchment was laid out next to quills and ink reservoirs for easy note taking. Several extinguished candles on pewter sticks dotted the table as well as a pitcher of wine and a collection of new cups for the guests. 
 

After a few moments the door opened once more and the Queen entered followed closely by her valet. Outwardly she looked fresh as ever, with sharp eyes and a sharp wit, ready for discussion. Inwardly she was weary, but those feelings had to wait. She knew the fleets reputation even if she had never met with them before, and quite honestly it intrigued her. Politically and militarily it was a great match, but she had a soft spot personally for wild hearts. She let her face break out in a welcoming grin and greeted her guests with a deep customary bow. "Gentlemen," she stood, "It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance, and for formality's sake, I am Seasonal Queen Aynia Moreaux. You have excellent timing, as I must leave for Chail as soon as I am able, but I have cleared time for us to talk here. I trust your time with us so far has been well?"