The Countess and The Lady

As Elizabeth did so often she was up with the sunrise. First, it was a meditation in her room with the quiet and the sun beaming into the room from the window.. Then into some clothes to train in. The training room for a short time, bath, and get into something far more appropriate for her venture out today.

Her hair was put in a tight braid with help from her personal maid, Claire. Then downstairs to greet the others and have breakfast. Some tea, a croissant, fresh fruit, and some sausage. She ensured everyone who needed one had a ward to take with them.

Her senses seemed up every time Dumont came near her. She watched the man for a few moments but figured out fairly quickly what was probably going on. It was something to think on later, perhaps speak to Sung regarding it. Not now, too much to do for everyone.

Before everyone left, Elizabeth told them she would be at the magic guild for several hours. While non-guild members could not go past the reception area, they could let someone know to get her but really the Eldren was hoping nothing bad enough to warrant her attention would happen today.

—---
Stepping out of the steam coach the building on the corner beckoned to her. The Guild of London was bigger than this, in an old keep building. but this Magic Guild with its’s stone exterior was secretly Elizabeth’s favorite. It didn’t feel like a maze walking into it. Both mages were friendly, but the Paris guild had a different feel about it.

She had spent most of her life at the guild in London, Paris was like a second home to her so a great deal of time had been spent here as well. She had also traveled to Russia, the guild in St. Petersburg was exquisite. Not to mention the one at the finishing school she attended in Switzerland.

Walking through the front doors and towards the wooden desks with elaborate carvings, the woman looked up from the desk. “Lady Ellington, it’s so good to see you again.” The woman with striking dark hair and deep violet eyes said with a smile. The woman looked around for a moment. “Is it just you today? That handsome Mr. Shi, where has he gotten off to?.”

“Good day, Sadie. It is nice to have some time here.” Elizabeth smiled at the question about Sung. Sadie was human, French, and in her mid 40’s. When Elizabeth spoke to Sadie it was always in French. “He is out for the day, had some business to take care of.”

“Well, do give him my regards. Now, how can I help you?’ Sadie inquired.

“Is there a section on Arunda artifacts? Maybe, one other than the small area on the third floor?” Elizabeth had been through all those books several times and knew what she was looking for was not in them.

“Ahh..curious about the artifact that was stolen. What was it again… the Visage of something.” Sadie responded as if she had figured out some great mystery.

“You know about the theft?” Elizabeth inquired.

Sadie held up a paper. It was not a guild paper but a non-magical one. Splatter across the front page. It read: Ancien artefact d'Araundan (ancient Araundan artifact) volé à l'exposition (stolen from The Exposition)
The article went on to say the time the theft occurred. The police had no suspects as to who was behind it. They had caught two of the robbers who weren’t saying anything. If anyone had any information contact the police.

Elizabeth read that as they had no real information and she was certain that London would get the news soon enough as well. She was not going to contact her father, he left her in charge, for a reason. See how things play out first.

“I am afraid though you are out of luck,’ Sadie said. “I believe that is all the information we have. Araunda’s are not big on magic.”

Elizabeth nodded, wondering what else she could look under when the sound of an almost lyrical woman’s voice caught her attention. “Why Lady Ellington, you look practically puzzled.”

There she was, Leader of the Magic Guild of Paris, Empirical mage, Eldren, and someone Elizabeth greatly admired. Countess Constance Charboneau. The older Eldren was a rarity and considered a great woman. Not only had she achieved a lot, but at 150 years old, the Countess was one of the Eldren left alive from when the Fauker’s disease had ravaged their kind.

“Greetings Countess Charboneau. I am in need of information and just am wondering where to acquire such.” Elizabeth respectfully responded.

The Countess was known as being kind, especially to younger Eldren and she had a fondness for Elizabeth’s inquisitive nature. “Well, I may be able to help you.” Constance’s eyes met Elizabeth’s for a brief moment. “The Arunda? Yes, I just may be able to help you. First, though, how are your parents, The Duke and Dutchess?” The older Eldren smiled kindly.

“Oh, they are quite well, thank you,” Elizabeth responded. “I would greatly appreciate any help.”

“Sadie, tell everyone I’m in a conference.” The Countess spoke lightly. “I do believe this might be fun.”

“Yes, Countess,” Sadie responded.

The Countess Charbonneu turned to Elizabeth. “Lady Ellington, please follow me.”

Elizabeth did as was requested, not sure exactly where she was being led.