Crimson Cove

Dressing a Queen

Neytiri stayed with the twins for what seemed like days, but they finished just in time for Renae to come back smiling.

You look amazing Tiri.

Thank you, Nae. I feel like Mother knew I was going to have issues with anything else. Tiri chuckled.

She does know you better than you know yourself. Sage smiled beside her.

Sable looked at them both. She should. Not only is she Neytiri's Mother, she also knows exactly how tonight is going to go. She foresaw all of this centuries ago.

Sable, no. Sage gasped.

Wait, what do you two know? Neytiri hardened slightly.

Nothing your mother would want you to know. Renae placed her hand on Tiri's arm.

Renae, if there is something I should know, you had better tell me now. I will not have any of you keeping things from me. This cove and these women are my responsibility from tonight on and I must know if it affects us all.

Neytiri, your mother has sworn us to secrecy. She bound us with blood. There is nothing more we can tell you. She put things in place for a reason. She knows things will follow the path that was predestined for all of us. I can only tell you that she knows that the cove and our coven are safe in your hands.

So am I to simply follow along, instead of being the Queen she has raised me to be?

No, you could never follow anyone. She raised you, giving you the freedom to become the warrior and Queen you are meant to be. You have everything you need inside of you to do everything that is going to happen. We will stand beside you through all of this. It is the way it is meant to be. Renae was resolved.

Thank you for your allegiance. I know you are all my Mother's closest confidants and, Nae, you are my closest. You know that.

Nae smiled. You will be a just and sound Queen. With the strength of your father and the wisdom of your mother, there will be no one who can challenge you.

I swear before the moon I will protect this Cove and our coven with my life, for all of us.

It is time. We need to get this princess dressed for her coronation. Sage was holding a garment bag, smiling directly at Neytiri.

Do I even want to know what is in that bag? Tiri looked a little concerned.

It is the perfect coronation gown for you. Renae looked into her eyes. I myself had it tailored for you.

Did Mother allow that?

She insisted. Nae smiled.

As Sable opened the zipper, Tiri was shocked to see it wasn't red.

She even approved it before deciding it was what you would want, and what is the symbol of your reign.

The fabric was thin, lightweight, and jet-black. As the item emerged fully she could see it wasn't a traditional coronation gown. It was more of a warrior-style outfit. She could see the corset was made of suede leather and black with chains hanging at the waist. The bottoms were black skin tight leggings. Where there was supposed to be a skirt there were chains laced with crimson ribbons flowing in and out of them. The lace on the shoulders added a hint of the woman she was behind the warrior she showed to the world. Renae had chosen well, something that portrayed every aspect of Neytiri.

It's beautiful Renae.

Oh s**t, one more thing. I made these for you myself, Neytiri. Sage turned to grab the box behind her.

You did not have to go to all of that trouble...Neytiri was cut short when she saw what Sage was holding.

A queen is only as good as her wardrobe. Sage smiled as she held the boots out to Neytiri. They were hand crafted from black suede, the same suede used to make the bodice of your outfit. Sage was very proud of the boots she had made, for good reason. The chains wrapping around the ankles mimicked the corset. Neytiri was impressed with the entire outfit. She stood up taking the items, admiring the quality and craftsmanship. She was ready to take her place.

She went to the changing room and dressed. Everything fit her body exactly the way it was intended too. She turned, looking into the full-length mirror, seeing a warrior; a Queen; and even a young girl anticipating a huge transition.The crimson her mother had insisted on was subtle, yet effective. She will definitely be showcasing her strengths that night. Stepping from the small room she froze at their reaction. A collective gasp escaped them. She was drop dead gorgeous. They remained silent a moment longer than she was comfortable with.

Nae, what's next? She ask.

Oh, I'm sorry, you just exude power and grace in this.

Well thank you, you all put it together.

Yes, well, it is amazing how well you embrace the embodiment of it.

Yes, I feel it makes a statement too. But now I need to know the rest of tonight.

Dinner isn't for another hour or so. Corine has everything in hand, and your mother is prepared as well. Now we simply wait. If you need to, you can take a moment for yourself. You know your mother has given you her room from this point on. You can reflect for a while and I will come get you when it is time.

Won't she be using it to rest before dinner?

She has decided she wants to be out in the fresh air. She is in the garden, that's where we are having dinner tonight. She has made it her plight to be in the open air as much as possible today. I believe it brings her closer to nature and gives her the peace she needs.

Will she need anything from me?

Neytiri, I am going to her now. I will take care of her. You need to take a moment to collect your thoughts. Go, while you still have a little time.

Thank you Renae. Turning to the twins, she smiled. Thank you both for everything you have done here today. Sage, I love the boots. Sable, you put your heart into every part of this. I am in debt to you both. Thank you all.

They all smiled back at her with deep respect for their new Queen.

Go, we will finish and come get you. Renae grasped her shoulder, turning her to the door. Neytiri allowed her gentle guidance. She left and headed for her mother's old room.