In another place, Neria might have blended in well, and for a time, she would here. But the people here were sensitive to magic, and some of them, some scattered few, could feel that something was different, even if they couldn't pinpoint it.

As Neria drew closer to the palace, she'd see that the immaculate, crimson-clad guards were all beautifully armored and carried swords at their sides, shining blades whose steel was chased with what initially seemed to be decorative engraving, but quickly resolved into a string of runic magic -- specifically designed to break and dampen it.

The castle gates were well-watched, and as Neria approached, she caught the assessing eyes of one of the armored guardsmen. With a friendly and open expression, he approached her with what sounded like a greeting.

"Avan," he said pleasantly. "As esher tan ves."