Crimson Cove

Preparations Made

Neytiri went to the one place she hated, the boutique. She knew the twins had been chomping at the bit waiting to get their hands on her. She made it a point that she did not want to be a feminine woman, she was strong and let that show. Her mother had told her the twins would each manage one of their attire and appearance for the evening. Tiri had decided that they needed to care for her mother instead.

Hey guys. She said casually as she emerged into the boutique.

Tiri, we have so many ideas for you and how we should style your hair and makeup. Your mother has given us explicit instructions to follow so that you might look like the queen you are.

I am no queen, but I will take my mother's position here in the cove.

You are the new Queen Tiri, whether you want to be or not. Renae interjected.

Be that as it may, I will come to tonight's dinner the way I choose, not in the way Mother has chosen for me.

She said you would say that.

Sable, you shouldn't speak of what she spoke to us about.

Oh come on Sage, we knew Tiri would already know most of what her mother told us anyway.

Ladies, this is neither the time nor the place to be discussing my mother's intentions for this evening.

Yes, mistress Tiri. Sable chuckled.

That is enough. You are both here at the queen's behest. Why do you feel it necessary to gossip during such an important transition?

I am sorry for Sable's discord. It seems she has left her common sense in bed this day. Sage lowered her eyes.

You do not speak for me, Sage. You may be my sister, but I have my own mind about things. Sable's eyes glinted with anger visibly.

Are we all about finished with this? Neytiri was growing weary.

What would you have us do Tiri? Your mother gave us specific details that she would like done with you for tonight. Sable was close to losing her temper.

First off, I would like you both to stop. I do not have enough time or energy to fight with you both over trivial issues. She was sharper-tongued than she had thought. They both looked at their feet.

Now, if you are ready to move forward, I will tell you what I would like done. Tiri was calmer.

We're sorry Neytiri. They said in unison.

Thank you both for all you've done for my mother and all the women here. We need you to help keep the women happy, even me when it is needed. I know Mother has her own ideas about what I should look like tonight. I am just not going to be your average princess taking the throne and I will not allow that. I will come as I am, all me, nothing but.

Can we at least show you what your Mother requested? Sable smiled.

If you must, I do not think it will matter much. Tiri stated.

Sage, do you mind getting the binder she gave us?

No problem, I think you are going to enjoy this one more than any we've done before Sable.

Shush, go. Sable giggled.

Sage went to the other room. When she returned, she had a binder that looked like it was as old as Neytiri herself. Sage handed the binder to Sable.

What you need to know is that this day has been planned for a very long day. Your Mother comes in every now and again to adjust your attire and the designs for your hair; makeup; and complete your look, simply to ensure tonight was your night as much as it is hers. She knows how very important it is for you to take your place in the fashion, that is, well, for lack of better words, you.

Okay, so she has been making my entire look for this night for a very long time. Nice to know, go on.

Sable looked at Sage, then back at Tiri. You don't understand. She did not come to make this for her. She used you as the model for this night in its entirety.

Okay, what do you mean?

This night has been made completely about you, Neytiri. She heard her mother's voice from behind her.

Neytiri turned around, looking into her mother's eyes once again.

Mother, why would you do that? This night is about you more than me.

No, it really isn't child. This is about you, and your future as the Queen of this cove. I am only here to pass this torch on to you.

Mother, we should not disagree now. You are Queen, I am the next. You deserve tonight to say goodbye to your people.

They are your people now and have been for a while. I merely have to let go, and I will, tonight. You, my darling daughter, will rule from now until the end of the cove. I have seen this, and have made all the preparations for facilitating this.

I do understand Mother, I just want your last night to be special. Tiri bowed her head so her mother could not see the tears flooding her eyes.

Sage and Sable know what I want, and they will help you get ready. Renae will take me back to my room, so I can rest before tonight. I will be at dinner, but you will be at the center of this night because that is what is predestined.

Yes, Mother, I will do as you ask.

Thank you, Neytiri. I can not wait to watch you take your place at the head of our cove and coven.

You're welcome, Mother. She said as Renae guided her mother to the door.

She turned to the twins, You heard Queen Saffron, you have plans, let's get this show on the road ladies.

Sable and Sage gathered their notes and the binder before heading toward the boutique's inner sanctuary.

Follow us, Queen Neytiri. They smiled.