Cheick held his breath as the carriage pulled up to the great stone steps of the palace. His sister Arya stood at his left side, dressed in the traditional headdress and robe of a royal sorceress - at his right was his brother Ajak, in an ill-fitting cape and breastplate. Behind him, Cheick's father rested a hand on his shoulder and smiled, old and wise and sad.

The Honor Guard of Bosanda flanked the staircase, thirty warriors armed with greatswords and dressed in steel greaves. In unison, they fell to one knee as Cheick stepped forward, his arms stretching wide as the carriage door opened.

"[color=khaki]Lady Ariella Laventis, House Phoenix of Crescent Bay,[/color]" the foreign coachman announced. 

Cheick's voice boomed out his well-rehearsed speech. [color=fff200]"My lady Phoenix, of frost and flame. Your arrival in our lands brings the people of Bosanda great joy. I am Cheick, commander of these armies and heir to the glory of my house, and by my decree you shall be welcome in these lands."[/color]

She looked him in the eyes - good. This one was not intimitated by grandiose displays. "[color=LightSeaGreen]Pleased to be here,[/color]" she said, and a wry grin appeared on his face. She was lying - they had that much in common, at least.

Cheick lowered his arms, and his soldiers rose. [color=fff200]"Your possessions will be brought to your quarters - if you would please follow my sister, she will show you to them. You may ask her any questions you like - our home is open to you. I have business I must attend to, but it is my hope that you will join my family for a meal within the next hour."[/color]