Mana Wells

"So why aren't we just telling the truth to Luther again," Kurt whispered to Talia.

"You really want him to know how the dragon was reacting to you?"

"What do you mean?"

"If the rest of the nobles find out that the dragon was acting subservient to you, it would threaten his rule. Playing it off like you had no idea what you just did?"

"I'm not playing that part, I have no idea what you're talking about."

Talia took a low gasp, "we need to get somewhere more private, that should be easy now my fiancée." She may have smiled a little too much on that last line.

Luther had invited them to a dinner as a congratulations for their engagement. Attendance was mandatory. But they had found a place that was a little more private. Talia hugged close to Kurt.

"So what's happening? Really?"

"Okay, like Darien really is protecting us. There are migrations that would normally take hold in our area. The creatures we probably could stop ourselves but the trains, everything we built could be at risk without it."

"And what does that have to do with me?"

"If the other lords find out you can practically command Darien somehow, why would they continue to follow Luther who really is just their communication."

"But he has the blessing too."

"But that's more of the bond for the alliance, a symbol of it from the dragon, sure it definitely a real power but, the reality is it's the dragon protection that matters. So that makes you a threat to his throne. Just continue to act clueless. Don't worry about it, my blessing is going to be enough to cause problems, but I wouldn't have been able to hide my eyes."

"So they can see me."

"Yeah…that's a loose end, but no one really knows."

"So what happens when Luther asks Darien?"

"So you want to stand up in the middle of the baking dinner and say yeah for some reason Darien will listen to me, and do what I say. I really think he would have flown you back to Wellspring."

"Why can't anything be simple? And doesn't this make you a target?"

"A bit I guess, but it won't do it out in the open, remember they basically told us to meet the dragon. And that little lie about wanting to bring a spirit with some eleven lore was quick thinking."

"Yeah, that sort of happened recently in a way."

"Huh?"

"We have a Kitsune now."

They talked about the Minotaur's and the political differences now that with the dragon's blessing it would give Talia a lot more sway among the rest of the clan. The engagement also would solidify the alliance as expected.

The dinner that was prepared for their engagement from the King was grand. The room had huge tables and buffets for many of the people there. Kurt and Talia sat next to King Luther, the spot of honor below him. There was a lot of wine to go around as well.

"So this charm, can you make another?" asked Luther.

"I don't know, the elves we have are sort of outcasts. They didn't come with much, they heard about my planning, and I'd have to ask them but it seemed particularly special, something I couldn't get everyday."

"Please do, or if they have something similar, if Darien can be happy, the kingdom usually does well. As well as any, at least."

"But what do you think of our Kingdom, not many have seen both, myself included."

"I have to say I'm most impressed by the trains."

"Ahh yes, those are a great help, we can help with that, there is something I think is especially useful you have."

"And what is that?"

"The goblins you have, they have a spell that allows you to talk to other species, this seems like one of your more special techniques."

"What are you saying?"

"I think it's as simple as an exchange of personnel, we help you set up some rails, maybe make a deal on a car and engine, we get some of the goblins helping us make some allies. There are few species across the borders that have some sort of encampments," said Luther, taking another bite of his meal. "And I hear they can at least tame some animals for mounts if nothing else."

"You'd be welcome to a crew of goblins, here?" said Kurt.

"I think we might have to start more with Talia's castle, it's near a border. And since you two are now engaged it wouldn't be unheard of to have some of your men there, as well as some of hers at yours," said Luther.

"That might be possible," said Kurt, "I actually don't see why not, I'd have to find some willing but I don't think it will be much of a problem."

The dinner kept going. Talia and Kurt made some small talk about the food. And the atmosphere. After a bit King Luther stood up and tapped a glass getting everyone's attention.

"Everyone, Welcome! We are here to celebrate the joining of two houses, clans, and peoples. Our own Countess Talia, and Lord Kurt of the Wellspring. Even with such ahhhh unorthodox proposal," the audience laughed, "I think we should all raise our glasses. And wish for a long happy life together. One that might bring us all a little bit more together, and a bit more prosperity. So, to you both, I raise my glass and may the gods bless your union and future. I wish the best for you."

The crowd gave a shout and a toasting of cups around the hall was made. Kurt and Talia came a little closer to each other, and had an embarrassed look upon their faces. There was obviously a bit of a question about how political the marriage actually was. But no one was being rude about it.

Though formal the dinner went like anyone would expect. They were able to find some time in private.

"So that went well," said Talia, looking up at Kurt.

Kurt took the moment to create an embrace and an over indulgent kiss. Talia wasn't arguing much. But after a moment they separated. "Calm down, there is a whole wedding and such," she blushed.

They had gotten through it, they would spend the night at the castle Valentine then continue their tour before Kurt would go back. Talia would have to figure out if she was staying or not, but that was for another day. On the morning they got on an ordinary train, not the