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[Infernal Hearts]

OOC: You guys know the rules.. If anyone else wants to join, please go to the 'BRAINSTORM SESSIONS' OOC thread first. I hope you guys liked the name/description. ;_


The sun was just peeking over the horizon, spreading its light across the rolling hills of Sazarin. Waking birds chirping, crickets singing their repetitive song just as the thick white fog grew, spreading it’s hazy fingers around the huts and homes of the villagers who were readying themselves for the day ahead of them.

This new day would bring much more than any of them knew. The King had called for the best Warriors across ALL lands and they were to come and gather, today. These warriors had a very special mission, a secret mission. And this secret, the King had kept from everyone. He had no choice, it was for the good of the Kingdom, of the Empire.

And now? This secret would no longer… be a secret.

The King stood slowly, stepping away from his bed. He placed his hands on the cold stone that lined the window. The sun had risen, he thought to himself. He inhaled deeply. With sunrise came the warriors and they brought a frightening sense of vulnerability.

Vulnerability? Oh, how he hated such a word. He had reigned over this Great Kingdom for a very long time, and he never once let himself fall to such a weak and pathetic state. Vulnerability, he again thought to himself. He did not like feeling this way but how could he stop it? How could he fix it? That’s the problem, he couldn’t.

What if they did not come? He asked himself. What worried him more was if they did. He would have to tell them. Yes, perhaps not everything. He would never tell them everything… but he’d have to tell them about her. Palpitations overcame his heart and he placed his hand to his chest. Vulnerability. Weakness. Fear.

He was reduced to this? Sazarin was once a great Kingdom, but many things have changed. When he came into power, there was chaos and all provinces were on the edge of War, but he pulled them back from that edge. He helped them, all of them. But through the many years of his reign, the disputes and family hatreds have become prominent, more apparent… worse. Many of the past treaties had been broken, even though some still held true.

He had called the best warriors of those Provinces. Hopefully, they’d be just enough.

He turned away from the window and continued out of his chambers. He must visit her. He must say goodbye.

Seraphina looked at herself in the mirror and sighed. She reached up, stringing her fingers through her pristine, white hair. She looked into her own ice blue eyes and breathed slowly. The dreams were growing worse. She woke up screaming this morning; frightening the servants trying to get to her. She had just stopped crying but her cheeks were still a little red.

Her fingers traced through her hair. It was, once, long and was now the shortest it had ever been, barely covering the lobes of her ears. They had even told her she must change the color to a putrid brown, but she refused. Never, she told them. Such an ugly color.

She sighed heavily and looked away from her eyes. It was a shocking change and her father ordered more. Why? Why was he doing this? She snapped her head around as her bedroom door opened.

She stood and walked towards him slowly. “Why have you ordered such changes? Is my appearance not to your liking? Is there something wrong, Father?” Her voice was soft, quiet.

He gently placed his hands on her shoulders. “Seraphina,” he whispered. “I know you do not enjoy these changes, but it must be done.” His fingers raked through her hair. “Plus,” he kissed her forehead. “You are still beautiful. There are still many changes that need to be --”

“I will not change the color of my hair, Father.” She said firmly.

He sighed, looking down into her eyes. “Alright, but all the others must be done. Understand?”

She nodded. “Yes, Father. Will you at least tell me why we are doing this?” She looked up into his eyes. She wondered if he noticed the redness… she wondered if he had heard her screaming?

He shook his head. “You will find out soon. I will not leave you in the dark forever.” He smiled. “Trust me, Seraphina. Everything will be alright. I must leave you now. I have many things to take care of.”

Seraphina obediently stepped away and bowed her head. “Yes, Father.” She turned and walked back to where the servants were waiting.

He watched her. He had heard her screaming, and as much as it frightened him, it made him wonder. Why was she having such nightmares? Why were they growing worse? He turned away. He hoped she would understand why he was doing this.

Edited by Infernal Hearts, 17 September 2010 - 11:45 PM.

[Gothicbloodygem]

Nyree was a wonderful place of cold and ice. Their winters lasted virtually all year round except for a few lighter months of fall type weather and one month when the snow on the ground almost melted completely. Almost. The tall mountains never lost their snow capped summits and some streams were always frozen. Confer
 
Everything was in a perpetual state of sleep, quiet, and cold. Blue’s, white’s, silvers and pale color’s were the preferred shade of houses and decoration. Wood was white washed or a particular blend of common white/blue stones, which was mined only in Nyree, was used for the formation of houses. It was their protection: one could almost walk past towns and villages because they blended in with their natural surroundings. That is, if one even wanted to attempt attacking a winter town who knew how to survive for three fourths of the year off the cold, harsh, unyielding ground.
 
Dark eyes, dark hair, and pale skin are the hallmark of Nyreese culture. It was only the rare soul that had pale eyes or hair. Normally those would only come from a highborn family. In some cases, that is the soul mark that can tip the scale and be the inheriting factor. A bastard child could claim his father’s lineage if his eyes matched his sires . In one extreme case a bastard son of the King came to be in power just because he had the legendary silver eyes that ran through the royal line. It helped quite a bit that he was a military, economic, and logistical genius. If he’d not the eyes, it would have taken longer for him to assume power in a time of great need when there were no heirs to the Nyreese throne.  Silver eyes translated best through female to sons so any combination of silver/blue/green/ or violet in a female is potentially a selling point when looking for a spouse.  Great marriages have been made, and dissolved, on the basis of this.
 
Several prominent families of Nyree’s coat of arms identify with the Wolf in any of its guises, whether be dire wolf or dog-its more common for a dog to have silver eyes than a human in Nyree-, because of its silver eyes. Their sincere belief is that they descended from the wolf. One of the highest in valor, honor, nobility, and closest to the king, as well as classified in the royal family and in the line of royal succession, is that of the Wolfe family. Their crest is of the Dire Wolf.

The Dire Wolf is the most powerful and biggest wolf in all Nyree. Capable of taking down bears, ogres, and –supposedly– full sized dragons. They are considered incarnations of the great Goddess Vivian… and -if they were lucky, really lucky- her true mate: the unnameable, unreachable Moon itself. True heirs of the Wolfe family are one of the few who can train this particular beast to hand. A worthy man, or woman, may try but many have failed and, more often than naught, have a ‘weaker’ wolf as a companion. Each of the members within the Wolfe family is given a Dire Wolf at birth. The wolves live longer than any other known animal as a gift from the goddess… they die shortly after their bond mate has passed on. It is claimed that only matching pairs of human’s and wolves are destined to be together. There is some leeway considering different breeds of wolves can made and, on some occasions, there will be a wolf/dog pairing.

There were also the occasions when the animal doesn't move on to the next world... Instead they stay next to the side of the closest kin until they feel they can let them move on...



~~~



She could feel them out there, just beyond the forest thicket. Alaina always felt her parents wolves as she prepared for a hunt. Her wolf life-companion, Fàel, could feel her own parents just beyond the edge of perception. Cuàn and Conrí were always just there. A steady presence in place of Alaina's murdered parents.

“They wait for you on the other side... we shall never know why their lives were cut so short...” She murmured, touching the ice edged window. Closing eyes the color of icicles as they reflected sunlight she tried to see her mother, her father. She tried to see anything past the Winter Palace that she now lived in. See past the many inhabitants that became her second family... past Lord Ferial's children. She tried to see past what her life was now to what it could have been... and failed.

A rapping at the door had her turning. “Enter,” she told the person and smiled as Lord Ferial entered her sitting room. “Grandfather,”she said moving over to kiss his cheek. “What brings you to my chambers? You should have just sent for me!” Alaina told him, scolding him for moving so much through the castle. Even though she was family Alaina was still half way across the Palace in separate chambers from his next of kin.

“Child, I need you to do a task for me...”

Those words were all it took for her to change her hunting preparations for a further sort of travel.

'You must travel to Sazarin at the kings bequest and fulfill the quest he puts to you. I cannot have Derval going and leaving Nyree's seat of succession empty in case something happens to me. Do this last thing for me and you will have your family's seat. A you know it was always yours. Only a regent has been sitting as place holder until you were old enough, and wise enough, to rule in your own stead.'

The words ran in her ear's even after her lord had left her. They continued on a loop ad infinitum as she packed a few more saddle bags and listened, half eared, to her bard friend Roxa. She didn't even protest much when a dress was snuck into the preciously little space she allowed herself.

“Don't push it,” she murmured to her friend when she attempted to add in several accessories. “And don’t pack more than could fit on your horse.” She admonished sternly.

With the packing nigh on done Alaina slipped out of her room and to the barracks in order to choose then men that would accompany them. 'Only enough for added protection... and small enough not to make to much notice...' she thought entering the dark quarters. She knew who she was after and chose four single, differently skilled men. They accepted the summons and she left them to pack their own things and wait by the large Quaking Aspen just outside the Palace wall's.

Returning to her rooms she grabbed suited up. Instead of her chain-mail, for now, she wore light weight clothes of a fabulous deep blue color with a set of good quality boots that laced up to a little under her knee and heavy fur fringed skins of lesser quality that would help hide her face and lead anyone to believe she was of the minor nobility class. It wouldn’t do to leave a large trail and have Derval find her. Finishing her outfit with her mother’s necklace, a few smaller weapons as well as her two swords, Arctic and Ice, she grabbed her bags, set the note on her neatly made bed, and picked up Roxa's bags. “Time to go Roxa,” Alaina said gesturing to the bard to continue in front of her as they made their way out of the Palace and on to the King's throne...

Edited by Gothicbloodygem, 18 September 2010 - 12:31 AM.

[Felenari]

OOC: *Is kinda dissapointed the thread's not called magic ape shit*


IC: Felix awoke to the soft chirping of birds He pried his face from his saddle and sat up scratching his chin. He wiped the little puddle of drool from the saddle and yawned loudly waking the rest of his men up. "Wake up you lazybones! We're going to be late!" Despite his loud comments he felt quite at ease. The first warm rays of sun had only just peeked over the horizon and the castle was already within view. Felix drew his sword and did some morning excercises.

"Nice mark..." Said his second in command. Felix pulled a small mirror from his saddlebag and his eyes widened when he saw the impression of the buckle he'd been sleeping on pushed deeply into the flesh of his cheek. He rolled his eyes and sighed. "Really? This is the last thing I need when meeting the King of the realm. He told his men to get ready and soon after they were on the road to the castle. Riding at an easy canter a fresh wind stirred Felix's hair and his red Sudenland wool cloak. A hawk flew by overhead and for a second he yearned like most humans do that he could fly and soar over the land. The party was in a heroic mood by the time they reached the city walls. They drew to a halt infront of the massive doors carved into the likeness of the great blue dragons of the north. Felix dismounted and put his hands to his mouth. "Ho there! We wish to speak to the gatekeeper!" A few seconds passed and a small door opened in the massive gate. A tall burly figure stepped out and walked over casually. When the figure got within earshot Felix walked over to meet him.
"Greetings Felix of Altdorf." Said the man to the surprise of Felix. "How do you know my name good sir?" Asked Felix.
"You think we wouldn't know the name and face of a man with an invitation to the court." He waved to the tower that peered out above the gate.

With a long and creaky groan, the entwined dragons on the gate released themselves from each others embrace and swung open to reveal a long wide street that led up to the palace.
"C'mon lads, let's go see the king." He bowed to the gatekeeper and the troupe led their horses up towards the palace.

Edited by Jue-Eldir Arowane, 18 September 2010 - 09:48 PM.

[Straife]

Standing at the window he looked out to the ocean, the sun picking off the crest of every wave. In the distance the sky met the sea as the two shades of blue clashed, small boats on the horizon drifted from view. As the ever lasting song of the sea gulls picked at the silence, the wind whipped at his mane as the scent of salt drifted on the warm breeze.

Lifting the document out of the tube he read the order from his father, he was to go at once to the kingdoms aide. The parchment stopped short of any further detail, and so he rolled it back into the tube and threw it at his desk. So many things required his attention here, the border lands were at constant watch for invasion. The fleet had returned to harbour and repair, but the province remained strong.

Staff were already collecting his staff and sword, he had dispatched his forces to the border in case he needed them. Food could be hunted in the forest en route, and water was always in supply if you were willing to look. And so he travelled from his room across the fine stone corridors, each one a reflection of the last. That was three days ago and he had been travelling now across enemy lands for a while, finally he hit the forest and vanished from the track.

Now pounding the ground on all fours, his staff tilted in line with his head. The sword strapped to his back and the document tucked into his waist, he ran at full speed until his body could take no more. For him it was a matter of pride that he trained on the journey, he stopped and smelled the air for a moment leading him to a fresh stream.

As he entered the clearing squirrels took up the trees, and dropped no end of sticks in an effort to scare him away. He licked at the cold water as it soaked his lower jaw, the day still had plenty of light remaining as he set back into a stroll. His muscles no longer ached from the long run, but the castle began to show from the top of trees. Other people had walked through the track, he could see the fresh prints and cracked twigs of people walking towards his destination.

[Caitiff]

It would have been wise to have taken Alaina's advice to pack only the necessary things. Roxa's chosen horse was now panting from having to carry not only her, but also both her over packed saddlebags. All she had was necessary, she swore. She had her metal accessories,-- like her favorite metal headband with the Sapphire jewel--- the extra treats she knew she had to lie about or Alaina would have never let her take them along, and all her bard equip and her precise flute. Along with her secret other thing….

"Gah!"The hunched figure underneath the pale monk cloak groaned uncomfortably on top of her horse. "Compared to Nyree this place is soooo hot." A gentle breeze passed over the troops, causing Roxa to yank off her hood and take in a deep breath. She had finally gotten over the harsh cold in the high mountains of Nyree and her electricity pumping through her veins had kept her body extra warm during her stay, but now the extra heat was draining her senseless. Her horse nayed again, annoyed of its rider’s consist movement. "Oh shush. This is why animals shouldn't ride other animals." she whispered, poking the horse on the top of its head. Hearing some snickering, Roxa narrowed her eyes over to Alaina.

The surroundings had obviously begun to change from the frosty snow to a more colorful world. "I forgot the world is more than whites and blues." Her hot pink eyes scanned the ground and the nature painted in their multiple fall colors. At one point she had to turn and recheck the ice they were leaving far behind to make sure she hadn't been making Nyree up. The horse whined after another annoying rearrangement. Pulling the reins, Roxa flipped her leg over attempting to climb down against the Amazon's orders to not be playing around with their destination just in view.

"We've been riding for hours and my body is numb." She stated matter-of-fact. She had never liked riding, but that wasn't something you would announce back at the palace. She had pretended to understand the do and don’ts back at the palace...but they weren't at the palace, now were they? Pulling off the cloak, she placed it in front of the saddle revealing her white and green Tavern Maid Dress and stroked each leather greaves and their metal polka dots. Combing her hand through her dark brown shoulder length hair, Roxa undid the buckle to her bag to check on that one thing. Alaina rode up beside the bard causing her to quick pull out the slingshot and the headband. As she put the accessory on, the woman muttered a tease about the silly cat would put out her own eye. In response, she stuck out her tongue and quickly stated it had only happened once before.

They reached the city wall no sooner after Roxa had got off her horse. Ironically enough she had complained that sitting on the horse would have made it hard for her to write on her scrolls or draw in her books, but stubbornly she refused to give in to how much harder it would be to do such things while jogging. On their way back to Nyree, after all the boring business was over, she would have to beg Alaina to let her sketch the surrounding before departure. The wall expanded as they grew close and a person was already out from behind a small door to meet them. Roxa returned the slingshot, rechecked her stiletto, attached to her outer thigh, and her morning star which was wrapped in a bluish cloth in the opposite sack before they got any closer.

"Welcome Sir Lady Wolfe. We have been expecting your arrival."

Roxa spotted the almost invisible twitch in Alaina's eye. She naturally would have stood by her side, but at this point it wouldn't be appropriate to do such silly things in front of her men. Watching the woman escort her horse forward, Roxa turned her much needed attention to the details hidden in the wall. She knew this wasn't the time to be overtaken by the amazing story her hyperactive brain was creating, but it would be against her very nature not to. Everything from the symbol on the gate to the tower that stood looking down upon them was soon imprinted in her mind. Maybe she wouldn't need the extra time after all. With the sudden impulse erupting with the gates being drawn open, Roxa resaddled upon her horse at the call of her name and shouted for them to wait as they started to leave her behind.

[Swan]

Slowly the sun began to peak over the distant mountains and through dense forest that surround Galorian. Birds began to chirp their morning songs and the small woodland creatures ventured from their homes searching for breakfast. It was the sound of the bird’s singing that stirred Rhoslyn from her sleep. Long lean muscles stretched beneath the thin fabric of her sheet; parts of her bare skin already began to show signs of perspiration as the temperatures rose with the sun. The only relief was that of the cool breeze that came down from the mountains signaling the coming change of seasons. As the air moved over Rhoslyn’s exposed flesh, the contrast to the warm temperatures caused chills to race along her spine. This made Rhoslyn smile and finally she opened her eyes.

Crystal blue orbs peered out of her bedroom window, watching in the distance a pair of squirrels chasing each other around the trunk of one of the enormous trees that grew all over Galorian. The smile on Rhoslyn’s lips faded slightly while watching the two youngsters play. She remembered the dream she had three nights ago of her stolen sister Seraphina. She could see her as clearly as she could see the animals playing before her. Rhoslyn wondered what it would have been like to have grown up with a younger sibling. Sera had only just begun walking when she was taken from them so there were very few memories of being chased by the youngest of King Darren’s children.

Even after all these years, the loss of Sera still stung deep within Rhoslyn. It was the dream that gave her hope again that Sera would be found and it was her determination and hope that made her father agree to send one last search party out to look for his missing daughter. The past three days had been extremely eventful. First there was the calling of warriors to join the mission. It was no surprise to either King Darren or Rhoslyn when first in line was Leonora O’Faolsin. Leonora was the closest thing to a sibling that Rhoslyn had after Seraphina was taken and the two spent many nights lying out under the stars dreaming about their futures. King Darren decided to appoint Leonora as the commander of the group of warriors that would accompany Rhoslyn to find Sera.

A grand banquet had been planned for that evening to wish the party off. Even after all these years, Rhoslyn still did not care for the lavish gatherings that were customary of the royal families and those called to court of her father, but she endured them for her father’s sake. As Rhoslyn entered womanhood, the need to please her father increased tremendously. Not only was he without a wife, but she was his only child and therefore heir to the throne of Galorian. How terrible would it appear if the own King’s daughter couldn’t be bothered by those that would some day call her Queen?

This type of thinking was always so typical of Rhoslyn, always thinking of others and putting other’s needs before her own desires. She would much rather be off riding through the forests or dueling with the men she grew up with, or even better yet, hidden away in her last teacher’s study with her nose buried in a book of spells. But those moments were so few and far between. Life as a Princess had its advantages as well as disadvantages.

Realizing that there was still much to do before her departure tomorrow, Rhoslyn slipped from her enormous bed and right on cue, the side door that led to her ladies-in-waiting’s room opened. Two women quickly entered the room, one rushing to pull the drapery over the opened window, the other rushing to Rhoslyn’s side with a thin robe. Rhoslyn sighed, “Must we block out the morning’s glory?”

The first and youngest of the two ladies turned and bowed, “But My Lady, we cannot let the world gaze upon your beauty with no clothes on, can we?”
Rhoslyn laughed and slipped her arms into the silk robe, “I guess not Lady Clarke. It’s just that it’s such a beautiful morning that I hate that we cannot enjoy it freely.”
The other woman smiled up at Rhoslyn, “There will be plenty of time to enjoy nature when you venture off on your journey. Now we must ready you for the banquet that your gracious father has planned for you and your group of warriors. Come… let’s get you washed.”
“Mary Gregory, you are no fun,” Rhoslyn said with a fake pout and then smiled down to the eldest of her ladies.
Lady Gregory looked up at the young Princess, “Oh hush now… and don’t give me that pout missy. I’ll turn you…”
“You’ll do what?” Rhoslyn asked playfully, arching a brow. “I’m not 10 years old any longer Mary. I doubt you’d be able to turn me over you leg no sooner than you would be able to catch me.”
“Don’t underestimate me deary,” the plump woman said. “Isn’t that what you’re always telling those boys that you whip into shape on a regular basis with that sword of yours?”
Rhoslyn just laughed, “Yes Lady Gregory, you’re right.” Slowly she followed the two ladies into an adjoining room, “But I’d still like to be able to see outside.” The stifled giggle from Lady Clarke only fueled Rhoslyn’s mood but she decided it best not to test Mary much further for fear that she would actually try to turn her over her knee.

After Rhoslyn was bathed and a thin gown was pulled over her body, two other ladies joined Lady Clarke and Gregory. Rhoslyn sat patiently as they all buzzed around her, one polishing her nails, one applying sweet smelling lotions on her arms and legs and the other two fixing her long blonde hair in an elegant up-do. The whole ordeal took hours to complete, especially when they had to stop to eat breakfast. Before she knew it, it was already noon by the time Lady Gregory finally pulled out a dress for Rhoslyn to wear.

Rhoslyn smiled at her Lady’s choice for the evening. It was one of her favorite and most prized dresses; it had once belonged to her mother. The warm golden color of the fabric had not faded with time because it had been shielded from the elements for years, stored tightly away in a hope chest at the bottom of Rhoslyn’s armoire. She had only worn it one other time and that was for her 21st birthday. There were very little adjustments made to the garment as Rhoslyn was built very much like her mother. She remembered vividly the look on her father’s face when she came down the grand staircase; tears filled his eyes and he hugged her tightly to his chest before whispering how much her mother would have loved to see her in the dress. Tonight would be equally as special and warranted it’s use once more.

Once she was dressed, hair complete and little make-up applied to her already flawless face, Rhoslyn exited her room and made her way to her father’s study. His servant quickly turned and opened the door before announcing her arrival to the King. Just as King Darren looked up from the many papers spilled out on the oak table before him, Rhoslyn entered the room. All the men in the room with the exception of her father bowed towards her. When Rhoslyn’s eyes met her father’s she bowed and then stood straight, her head held high.

Holding out his hands towards her King Darren spoke, “My child.” He rose from his seat and maneuvered around to the front of the table awaiting his daughter’s embrace. “You are a vision.”
Rhoslyn hugged her father close and then placed a tender kiss upon his cheek, “You are so kind father.”
“I am not,” he boasted, looking around the room, “I just speak the truth.” All those around him laughed and agreed. Rhoslyn blushed slightly. “But alas, I still have matters to attend to here before we can enjoy each other’s company. You might wish to take a stroll in the gardens to occupy your time until I can call upon you?”
It was more of a request rather than a question but Rhoslyn did not mind. She had grown used to being at her father’s beck-and-call, as did many of those that were privy to the King. Rhoslyn bowed her head, “As you wish father,” and then exited the room to leave her father to his work.

While walking along the hedges and large pond just outside the palace walls Rhoslyn turned to Lady Gregory, “Mary, have you heard from Lady Leonora? I expected to see her by now.”
“I sent word for her early this morning. I’m sure she will be here shortly.”
“I certainly hope so. I wish to speak to her about our plans for tomorrow morning before the dinner tonight,” Rhoslyn said, her pale blue eyes scanning the garden, looking as if Leonora would pop out from behind one of the bushes.

Rhoslyn, with Lady Gregory at her side and the rest of her ladies walking a few paces behind, continued to walk further into the garden. She paused only for a short while to admire the roses before continuing her walk. Many things flooded her mind but she did her best to put them at bay and enjoy her last day in the security of her father’s walls for starting tomorrow she would be putting her trust and safety in the hands of Leonora and a select few on her journey to find her missing sister Sera.

[Draco_Evlone]

The last year had been the worse on his heart, he heard the screaming of the princess on a constant and over turning measure of nights and even at points he had suffered scars upon his arms and face when he had stormed in thinking a foe was within the room only to see the struggling girl trying to bash away her dreams. The night before had been no different, but this time he had barred the door and prevented the servants from entering. He stood in the corner and played his flute with slow delicate tune in hopes the magic of a tune would ease her mind. Playing for a few hours he has seen her relax and return to a sleep he was confident would last through the morning. Unbarring the door he stepped out side only to get a hard slap to his face from the mistress's tailor. "An what are you thinking keeping me away from Sera!" the woman growled low as her hand came back up only the curess against Fang's cheek. Within the kingdom there was only two people he would let them assault him with out payback, that was the princess and the Tailoress known as Kitrina. "She is sleeping" he said firmly, his voice soft but a hint of tire.

Kitrina looked within his eyes and knew that his heart had been bothering him, and she wished the king would dismiss him from his duties. But little she knew, the king tried and Fang refused. Kitrina was 5'2 with red ruby hair, and jade green eyes. Her body was petite in nature but her breast where a nice size for the hands of Fang. Their love was never shared due to the point it couldn't go anywhere. Slowly her arms wrapped around his frame and her ear pressed against his tunic. Hearing the misplaced beats of his heart, she wept slightly knowing he would die within the service of the King. "Shhh woman, I heard enough crying this night.. and you didn't hurt me." he said softly as his hand ran through her hair. Pushing her away he lifted her chin and let out a sly grin "Get back to bed" he said softly before letting his lips trail over hers. Kitrina took his lips and smiled as the kiss broke and turned and walked seductively away knowing his eyes were upon her. Sighing softly as Kitrina went out of sight, Fang placed his back towards the door and stood guard. Two short swords, one on each hip, on the back of his belt held his regen and scroll case. On his back was the two handed war axe that was handed down to him by his father. He wore the armor of Soldier, black leather boots, chain mail pants, chain mail tunic with plate arms.

When the king came in the morning to visit his daughter, Fang didn't say a thing and simple saluted him and stood aside. He knew the feelings of the princess about the changing the color of her hair, even more so the confusion that ran through her mind. Fang knew a lot but somethings he didn't understand and even more so it hurt him not able to tell the princess the truth about a great many of things.He stood silent as the King talked to his daughter, the smell of breakfest from the mess hall made his stomach roar in detest. It wasn't uncommon for Fang to miss meals, or even go days without rest, there was very few if none he trusted with his own duty of protecting the princess. Sighing softly he started to think of the recent orders that went out of the castle in search of the warriors who would take the protection of the princess as their own. He would bash all of them across the skull but the King wouldn't allow it, what ever mission this was he wouldn't be left out, where the princess went, he went.


As the King would depart he would stand at attenson then once the man was out of sight he would see that the servants were brought in. As the Princess was getting ready for her day, he would turn and walk to the mess hall. His stride was slow but not to cause people to walk behind him, his limp in his left left was still strong and from time to time it would hurt. Some of the more new guards withing the castle would think the man weak and unable to protect the princess, and a few have suffered broken limbs and bloodied faces in turn for questioning Fang's physical health. As he entered the kitchens he looked at Kit who held a plate of food to him. "Meat, eggs, bread, porage.. a breakfest for champions!" she said with glee, even tho she cooked it her self and it looked over done. Sitting down at a private table he ate and was glad he had a iron stomach. Kit sat across from him and stared at him with love in her eyes. Fang knew the relationship couldn't go any where, but he played it out as best as he could allow it. "Your getting better.." he said softly as he held the napkin over his mouth, spitting a egg shell out.

[Ices]

Leonora was out riding Goliath before dawn. She had watched the sun rise as she road him about Galorian to make sure everything was all right. Goliath was her black and white paint clydesdale. He had been the colt of her father's horse and refused any horse but him. Goliath was the only think left of her father. Leonora had her ebony hair pulled up in a pony tail tied with a peice of worn leather. She kept her muscles tense and back straight ready for a surprise attack of any sort. She wore a brown leather corset that clung tightly to her lightly tanned skin, brown leather pants, brown leather boots that laced up above her knees just a bit. She wore a shirt of chain mail over her corset then a vest over the chain mail to cover most of it. Her hazel eyes were fierce and piercing. "Tomarrow Goliath we begin our mission to find Princess Seraphina." She spoke softly to the horse. "We have to find her Golaith or something bad will happen. I can feel it."

Leonora smiled as she listened to the birds churp and sing of morning. The sun's rays touched over the land reaching over to Galorian. She turned Goliath around to watch the sun rise on the kingdom. "Look how beautiful." She whispered. "We better head back old boy. I'm sure they've already sent word for me." She urged the huge clydesdale forward to the kingdom. She listened to his heavy hooves beating into the ground. Goliath indeed lived up to the name in being huge but he was just as swift as the smaller horses. Leonora let him have the freedom of his head by loosening her grip on the reins. Sometimes , Leonora felt like Goliath could really fly.

'I hope to not fail you Rhoslyn.' Leonora thought. 'We will find your sister.' She closed her eyes letting the beating hoves carry her off in her memories of learning to fight along side Rhoslyn. She new her friendship with Rhoslyn would would end the day they were both considered women. She didn't expect it to be so soon though. The chance to prove her worth had come may she succeed or fail she was considered a worrior now. Rhoslyn's life came before her own. She wouldn't allow the king to lose another daughter if they couldn't find Seraphina. 'We'll find her though. I promise Rhoslyn. You'll have your sister back then you and your father will be happy.'

Leonora pulled in on Goliath's reins as she reached the stables. She removed his saddle and bridle to give him a good brush down after being road for so long. She smiled once his coat felt smooth, clean and cool, tot he touch. She pulled his head down towards her kissing his nose. "Don't scare the stablemaster today ok Goliath." She laughed when the horse snorted. She saw a guard approching her off to her side. She turned to meet him head on. "Leonora, Rhoslyn wishes to see you. She's in the garden." He bowed and Leonora nodded to him.

Leonora had become Rhoslyn's warrior as her father Dorian had been to Rhoslyn's father King Darren. Dorian how ever met with his end when he tried to protect Princess Seraphina. Leonora's mother had too died in giving birth to her. She was taken in by Rhoslyn's father in hope of her turning out like her father a great warrior.

Leonora pulled off her vest and chain mail shirt laying it over Goliath's saddle. She ventured off into the garden to seek out Rhoslyn and her maids. She found them wondering about in the gardens. "You called for me M'lady Rhoslyn?" She spoke softly and bowed to Rhoslyn then stood up right awaiting for her to speak.

[Felenari]

Felix rode his horse up to the palace and dismounted before it's gate. "You lads go and find some lodgings for us and the horses and please keep it cheap this time." His men took his horse and started back down the hill. Throwing his red cloak over his shoulder so his emblem showed he strode up to the door and went to knock on its smooth ebony surface. The door opened however before his armored knuckles could mar its delicate surface.
"Enter" Said an ominous voice. Felix did as he was told and stepped through into a brightly lit hallway. Large suits of bronze armor stood proudly in service to their king and faerie fire gleamed from the blades on their spears and halberds. Enormous tapestries depicting, what Felix assumed to be the king fighting demons and other enemies of the kingdom, hung from the walls between stainglass windows easily 20 feet tall. The marble pillars supporting the ceiling were engraved with dragons in the image of the front gate and embossed with gold leaf. An intricately woven carpet of the finest silk Felix had ever laid his eyes on made him wish he'd checked his boots for dirt before entering, yet as he walked the silk wasn't stained or dirtied in any way. "Fancy..." He muttered to himself. He progressed through the hallway and admired the tapestries as he walked almost bumping into a surly servant at the end. "Terribly sorry my good fellow. Didn't quite see you there."
"Myes I bet you didn't." Said the short man holding a rolled up piece of parchment. "You are to go see the king at once my good fellow." He said with a sneer and handed him the parchment. Felix shrugged and walked through another set of ebony doors.

"Oh damn..." He said as the door closed behind him. The ceiling was so high he felt the muscles in his neck strain when he looked up. Tapestries from kingdoms near and far hung poudly from the rafters between pillars ten men across. He could read the creeds and oaths of kingdoms proclaiming their allegiance to the king in more languages he could count on his hands. Two enormous spiraling stairs came down into the middle of the room from the second floor where he assumed the king was. Guards lined the steps all the way up and more guards stood before the silver door at the top. Servants and the like hustled and bustled through the room, coming and going to their respective doors on both sides. "This place must be built like a maze." He said to himself as he crossed the black and silver mosaic tile floor. He weaved in and out of the foot traffic and even managed to grab an apple from a passing cooks cart while he made his way across the room. "They should build a bridge here." He thought as he took a bite from the sweet fruit. When he reached the stairs they were even more ominous than he first imagined. "I hate stairs..." He grumbled and started his way up. A few beads of sweat had appeared on his forehead when he reached the top to the amusement of the guards. "This is for you." He panted and skewered the core of his apple on the man's spear. Before the guard could react he knocked loudly on the ebony doors and smiled as it echoed through the room. "Someday your smugness will be the death of you Felix." He thought.


OOC: Anyone playing the king?

[Infernal Hearts]

(Me. )

"Your Majesty," one of the servants called. The King was staring out the window, arms locked across his chest. They were here, at least most of them were. He turned back towards the servant. "They are--"

"Yes, I know," he spoke. There was a ping of sadness and perhaps regret in his voice. He hoped he would not regret this. He turned, following the servant out to the throne room and sat. Even before he had a chance, a knock rang at the door. Hm, he thought to himself. They were eager, weren't they? "Bring all of them here," he told the servant. "I want you to get them everything and anything they need or wish. Do not annoy them, do not pester them either. I want these people to leave happy and well. If they leave unhappy, who knows what will truly happen. Also," he gripped the servants arm as he passed him, looking into his eyes. "...Get Seraphina."

The servant nodded and hurried out of the room as the King stood. "You may enter." His voice thundered through the walls. He immediately masked the hundreds of emotions glowing out of his eyes. He didn't want to seem even more desperate or even more vulnerable then he already was. The guards on both sides of the throne straightened up, holding their battle axes and their swords tighter.

[Swan]

Rhoslyn’s eyes lit up as she lifted her gaze from the flowers growing along the path she had taken to see Leonora standing before her. ”Leonora,” she said softly, her smile warm and inviting, “I was just speaking to Lady Gregory about how I wished to speak of our journey that begins tomorrow.”

Rhoslyn took several steps towards Leonora taking note of her attire and coming to the conclusion that she must have been riding all morning, something that she wished she could have been doing rather than getting ready for the banquet. ”Walk with me. We have much to discuss.”

Lady Gregory fell back in stride with the other ladies-in-waiting as Leonora took her place next to the Princess. Rhoslyn turned to smile at her once closest confidant. ”Are the men ready for the ride? Are they in good spirits?” Rhoslyn’s crystal blue eyes moved back over the garden and out onto the horizon as if searching for her words before they left her lips. ”I do not want them to think this is just another careless attempt to find Sera.

Rhoslyn stopped and took Leonora’s hand, gripping it tightly, which caught her by surprise; she stared deeply into her eyes, ”I know that she is out there Nora. I can feel it. I can feel it here.” Carefully Rhoslyn placed the palm of her other hand against her chest.

The two women stood staring at each other for a moment, no words spoken aloud but an understanding that Leonora knew that Rhoslyn’s words were true. Rhoslyn smiled and they began walking once more. They spoke of their journey and the easiest way to trek north towards colder territories. The reason for this route was because in Rhoslyn’s dream she saw mountains of snow and ice covered trees. Winters in Galorian were never that harsh so she could only explain it as that was where Sera was at or was heading to.

They agreed to meet mid-morning at the castle’s entrance and went over all the arrangements that needed to be made for the men. Before ascending the stone steps that led towards the back entrance of King Darren’s home, Rhoslyn turned to Leonora, ”You will be joining us tonight, correct?” Although the banquet was held in her honor, Rhoslyn felt that all those that were taking this journey with her deserved to be honored for their courage and support of finding Seraphina. When there was a slight hesitation Rhoslyn turned to Lady Clarke, ”You will accompany Leonora home and ready her for tonight.” The young lady bowed in understanding. She redirected her attention to Leonora, ”And please, I’m not asking you to dress extravagantly, but could you please don something other than your warrior leathers?” Rhoslyn smirked and then shot a wink towards her and then made her way up to the castle, her Ladies not far behind.

[Zarek]

The walk from the Empire to these new lands hand been a tedious one, even more so when one was a blind man. The hot rays on his back a reminder to him that the sun was still high, the day just beginning. Scowling, the man continued to tap his cane around on the ground, moving well enough on his own that passerby wouldn't be able to tell that he was blind on first glance. At least until they got close enough to see the scar that marred his face, his eyes closed.

The mere memory of the Emperor summoning him was enough to ignite his temper.

***

He had been training in the gardens of the Emperor, a tribute to his father as well his past ancestors. A garden that seemed almost as vast as the sea, no other kingdom could proclaim such a profound beauty of nature, or so he'd been told. In his training robe, his blade had moved swiftly as he went through forms of his Xinshi, a technique based on false movements to create openings for the true movements, when he'd suddenly heard the rustling of cloth. One, two, three. One approached him while the other two shadowed him closely, from the excess movement of the robes and the confidence of the stride, he could already tell who it was. Bringing his legs together and placing his sword behind him, he brought his left hand over his chest in a 'mock' salute.

"Emperor..." He breathed out in a low voice.

Pausing, he could hear the two behind the Emperor shuffling behind him, anxious. Furrowing his eyebrow further, Dai Hijikata looked toward the general direction of where the movement was coming from.

"Hijikata, Dai." The Emperor replied in acknowledgment, another rustle of movement as the Emperor retrieved something from his clothing. With a quick snap, a small waving motion could be heard as the Emperor began to fan himself.

"To what do I owe the honor, my Emperor?" The sarcasm in his voice was near unmistakable, yet the Emperor ignored it as the two behind him snorted indignantly. His head turning to the sound of snort, Dai opened his eyes to reveal the gray of blindness, the Emperor's adviser taking a step back in fear as Dai closed his eyes once again.

Closing the fan with a loud snap, the Emperor smiled, catching himself as he realized it was a wasted effort on a blind man. "We have received a summons for aid from a Kingdom near the center of the country. The King, whom we owe a blood oath to, is seeking help of our strongest warriors."

The adviser on the other side of the Emperor spoke up, "It is a matter of utmost importance that we hold up our end of the pact. Otherwise we will honor and face amongst the other countries." He began, "But as I'm sure you know, elegance and subtlety our things we treasure most in our culture. So rather then send an army, or a legion of our troops, we've decided rather then taking away from our own troops. It would be far more worth it to send in someone just as well worth an army, someone with experience, someone..." the adviser trailed off.

Just as expendable.

Dai knew more then anyone how much his presence threatened the base of power in the Emperor's kingdom, even blind he was still a threat. And rather then simply get rid of him, they opted to send him off in an exile of sorts, under the pretense of serving the family. He had to admit, the Emperor and his advisers were truly crafty, not only were they getting rid of him, they were doing so in such a way that the Empire as a whole benefited from it. It made his stomach wrench at the mere thought of it. Relaxing his stance, Dai turned his head to face the emperor, now openly wearing a scowl before the man. "If my Emperor wishes it...?" He asked with a mock-bow.

"I do, Hijikata." He replied in an amused voice. "You'll be escorted via carriage to the borders of our lands. From there, you'll leave by horseback, it shall be as I command." He said with a sense of finality, as he turned away from the blind man, his advisers once again trailing behind him. The same adviser whom had snorted before, turned his nose up at the man, muttering about the wretch in a low tone that he thought no one else could hear.

But he could hear. You could hear many things when you suddenly had to rely on your other senses. If he ever returned to this land, he'd make sure the man received a painful greeting.

***

Perhaps it was because he was something of a bitter man, but something about his memory of the Emperor set something off within the warrior. It didn't help that the horse they'd provided Dai had killed over not even half a day's journey away from the nearest province. His dark hair was disheveled somewhat, his clothing ruffled, but he was still presentable overall. Or at least he hoped.

Rubbing the whiskers on his face, he suddenly noticed a buzzing sound. Scowling he approached the sound until he noticed that it was the sound of talking, laughter, and movement. The movement one would expect from a large castle. Grinning snidely, the blind warrior continued to feel out the path of the road ahead with greater urgency, his cane reaching out further and further. Was he at last at the gates of the castle?

[Ices]

Leonora smiled when she saw Rhoslyn brighten at her arrival. "Yes we should discuss out journey." Leonora agreed. If they were to lead they had to have a plan. "I do hope you enjoyed the garden and I appologize for taking so long. " She said walking beside Rhoslyn in the garden. "Goliath and I went for a early morning ride and all is well." She said noticing Rhoslyn looking her over andprobably already guessed she'd been out riding all morning.

Leonora didn't much care for the ladys-in-waiting as it was easy to tune them out while they followed in step behind her and Rhoslyn. "Yes M'Lady. the men are quiet excited for this rise to find Seraphina especially since they'll get to see land that they never laid eyes on. Their spirts are quiet high in finding Seraphina. I doubt they would turn back until they find her. Even Goliath's spirt is high he's probably tormenting the stable master as we speak." She chuckled lightly at the thought. Leonora frowned as Rhoslyn took her hand noticing how desperate Rhoslyn's voice sounded. "Rhoslyn... no one thinks this is a usless attempt at finding Seraphina. The men believe in you. I believe in you. We are determined not to come back till we find her. All hope is not lost Rhoslyn. Have faith in us because we sure have it in you."

Leonora placed her hand on Rhoslyn's shoulder to ensure her that things were fine and to quit worrying her. "Everything is ready. We could have even left today if youe father hadn'ted been so determined for this banquet in your honor today." She confirmed. A sly smik slipped onto her lips. "Who knows maybe you'll even find someoen tonight for your hand in marrige." She teased Rhoslyn. Leonora quickly frowned when Rhoshlyn asked if she were going to the banquet as well. She gave a quick sly glance away from Rhoslyn that told her Leonora had planned to skip out on it.

She grumbled when Rhoslyn sicked one of her ladies-in-waiting, Lady Clarke, on her to get her ready for the banquet. Leonora clanced Rhoslyn over again. "It would be hard to dress extravagantly compared to you, I'd still look as if I wore peasent clothes." She teased Rhoslyn again. She knew Rhoslyn wasn't really into gatherings like banquets but did it for apperances to her people that she cared. "Alright M'Lady Rhoslyn I'll quit y teasing of you." She smiled playfully at her. "Oh M'lady, careful not to get engaged while Lady Clarke dresses me like a baby." She grinned hearing Lady Clarke scoff but smile at Leonora's personality. She watched Rhoslyn leave her with her ladies-in-waiting except Lady Clarke who stayed behind with her.

Leonora sighed deciding she wasn't getting out of it as Lady Clarke followed her home in close persuite. Leonora lived now in her old home she had lived in with her father as a child since she came of age to be on her own. It was close to the stables where Goliath stayed and close to Rhoslyn. She had it all to herself after she decided she didn't want to live in the castle but in her old house that King Darren had built for her father in where more of the garden used to be. It was a quaint little place and beautiful too with the castle's garden goign around it and a little pond in her front yard.
She watched Lady Clarke go though her closet looking for a dress for her.

'Ugh a dress.' Was all Leonora could think of being she didn't much care to show her feminine side. Lady Clarke picked out a pale green dress that used to be Leonora's mother's dress. Lady Clarke helped Leonora slip into the dress after a bath. The pale green of the dress brought out the green in Leonora's hazel eyes. She sat down as Lady Clarke began to take LEonora's hair down and brush the ebony hair. She made sure all the tangles and waves were out of LEonora's hair. Leonor's ebony hair reached down to her waist. She put on her mother's small pearl necklace and earrings. Lady Clarke handed her the heels that went witht he dress. Leonora looked at Lady Clarke like she was crazy but put on the heels. 'I'm going to kill myself in these.' She thought. She knew why Lady Clarke picked heels though instead of flats of some sort. Leonora only stood 5'4". The heels made LEonora about 5'6". She she didn't look to short agaisnt the other women unless someone happened to notice she wore heels instead of flats. Most women in Galorian were about 5'7" or so. Lady Clarke did Leonor's make up then they both headed their way to the castle. She tried not to pay her men any mind when they teased her by whistling at her.

[Felenari]

Felix pushed the doors open when he heard the king's voice boom from within. The guard with the applecore on his spear frowned at him but Felix just smiled and strode through the doors. The floor was tiled with massive slabs of black and grey marble with tiny veins of gold through them. It seemed like naturally occurring gold veins except for the fact that they continued seamlessly from tile to tile and they seemed to converge towards the Kings throne. The doors closed soundlessly behind him as he was announced to the king by a tall man with white hair and a diamond topped cane, which he tapped on the ground making the gold in the floor pulse with a soft blue light.
"Felix Jaeger of Altdorf, No mentionable titles, Son of Herr Jaeger of the Jaeger family in Altdorf."

Although Felix kept his pace swift his confidence was a bit bashed. What if his father knew he was here. Would he come with the house knights? "No matter." He thought and continued to cross the vast hall, his boots clacking louder and louder as he approached the throne with his cloak flowing gracefully behind him. He stopped a good twenty paces away from the throne and a man to the kings right stepped down from the gold and silver dias upon which the throne rested. The man was clad in armor of the purest silver and held a magnificent spear in his right hand. He spoke with a voice that demanded authority.
"Present your arms to the king and pledge allegiance to the kingdom. No promise is required to hear about the task at hand. Only your allegiance and your word not to spread the information given to you in spoken word, writing or any magical means. To break this promise is considered treason and will be punished by death. Do you understand Felix Jaeger?" The man hadn't looked at Felix until he stopped talking. When he did make eyecontact Felix felt the mans icy gaze sweep through him as if every mistake he'd evere made was being judged.

Felix slowly drew his sword as blue flames errupted from the blade and surrounded his right arm. When he kneeled before the king fiery wings unfurled from underneath his cloak and spread out 10 feet to each side, filling the room with an eerie blue glow.
"I Swear upon my immortal soul no word transpiring here today will ever be shared to neither man nor beast in any form as long as my soul, actions and consequences are mine to bear."

[Straife]

Resting against a tree he closed his eyes for a moment, the area was safe enough and he had long ago left the beaten track to the kingdom. Various muscles told of their complaints about his pace, but he could afford a little pain in order to keep his body finely honed. The huge bulk of his height now stretched on the ground, as he took in the brief burst of sun light through the tree canopy.

Taking his sword in one giant hand he ran a finger down the blade, each time running it off against the edge to check it's sharpness. The staff remained planted in the ground, as he lay the sword down by his side and continued to stretch. Of all the races his was possibly one of the largest, but often considered to be one of the thickest.

It was due to his nature within his own pride, that he had found the muscle between his ears. He could out think his brothers and sisters, even his father had come to fear the silent man. Standing up he retrieved his sword and staff, once more setting off in the direction of the castle. The tube containing his orders swung as he ran, the massive form of his body bouncing from tree to tree and pounding at the ground.

As the castle loomed on the horizon he watched as he approached from the west wall, the guards on the turret aimed at him he could hear the tension in their bow strings. Pulling a small material from around his neck, he unfurled it to reveal the Provinces flag. The phoenix rising against a setting sun, he listened as they argued on the turret. His huge hand now beating at the door, he pulled the cylinder from around his neck and waited for the door to open.

[Draco_Evlone]

Removed by Swan

Edited by Swan, 25 September 2010 - 08:02 PM.
Per request of writer.

[Gothicbloodygem]

She took the steady trudge with an air of one that was use to days of hunting on horseback. There was almost no other recourse within Nyree and the best Warriors become the best Horsemen. Alaina also knew that Roxa wasn't as well prepared... While the bard traveled with Alaina a lot on hunts and wrote tails about the amazing beasts she'd killed, or plants they'd seen, Alaina normally restricted the hyperactive girl to shorter marches. Frankly it was because of her tendency to...

Get off her horse.

Looking down at her friend askance she simply shook her head. There was no point trying to reason with the girl. She would manage to keep up and eventually get back on her horse but she was as changing as the water she so despised. Rolling her shoulders to loosen their stiffness she neglected to tell the Neko that they were close to the King's Court. Thus, there was no reason to fight this time.

Alaina twitched just ever so slightly as someone hailed welcome to her group. Forcing the distaste of her title away she composed her face. Smiling kindly, if frigidly, to the man who welcomed her she nodded her head regally and let him lead the way. Passing through the larger circumference of the outer castle walls Alaina had time to notice the flourishing of Sazarin. There was a real population boom and economic growth. As they passed by the central market's walls Alaina noticed various interesting items for trade. 'We'll have to stop here on our way home...' she thought seeing various enchanted items being bandied about as well as various wares.

When the approached the smaller inner gates of the castle they were welcomed again and handed off from one guide to another. With another gracious smile Alaina carefully dismounted and handed her reigns to one of the many pages waiting to take care of her mens horses. Petting the silver haired beauty she whispered in his ear to be a good boy and let him go.

Murmuring instructions to her men she heard where they would be put up and nodded. Unhooking her saddle bags she handed them to another page who followed behind as they were led to their rooms. Alaina was early for the meeting. She liked being early it gave her time to change as well as stretch and cool down from a long ride.

Once to their chambers she shook her head once more as she saw the bed tip under Roxa's bags. “Told you to only bring essentials,” she said in a level voice, turning her eyes away from the offending items. She knew her friend wouldn’t take offense at the frigid exterior of her words. Her companion knew better that she was like molten under a fine layer of ice. It was the difference between how she showed the world according to a mixture of status, birth, and gender verse her own spitfire snippety personality. She was kind of tired and a nap would serve her well... it would thicken the ice so that maybe it wouldn't crack as quickly when she finally had to deal and work with other people. Pure Ice didn't run in her vein's as most people thought. She just never emotionally dealt, or cared, with people.

Stripping off a blue animal skin jacket and then her deep blue over tunic she pushing off her boots to lay on the bed as Roxa fussed around the room. . . .

To soon a knock came at the door and Roxa was ecclesiastically shaking her awake. Groaning she rubbed her eyes and sat. 'We're going to be late!' the bard said to her in her particular sing song voice and Alaina grumbled. Pushing black hair from her eyes she forced it back into some semblance of order. Confirming that it was still dead straight -as she wanted and forced it to be- she didn't fuss much with the long mass besides to affix it with higher on her head. Standing from the bed she pulled on her dyed blue boots and laced the front. Sheving a pair of large nasty looking hunting knives in the boots she donned her fine and practical deep blue tunic once more. Looking around the room she found her dual sword belt and fastened it neatly on her hips. The weight of the two swords sung it slightly off center. Smoothing the fabric she and Roxa opened the door and followed the man waiting for them.

The man opened the door and jumped back with a yelp as fire seemed to lick the surface everywhere in the chamber. Alaina lifted a brow and walked in anyway even hearing Roxa's protests. Reaching behind her she touched Roxa reassuringly and urged her to follow. The fire died around her and her companion as she walked further into the chamber. When it tried to enter the sphere of her influence it was met by a sliver of sliver frost that effectively put it within it's place. The power was more a natural unceasing thing that she felt at all times than something she controlled. Her blood always seemed to run colder than everyone else and everyone commented that the shift in her temperament effected the temperature.

Seeing the king's eyes turn to her he called to her as well.

You have me allegiance and my word not to spread any of the information given to me today in spoken word, writing, or any magical means.” She repeated almost verbatim. “I also understand that to break this promise is considered treason and I will be punished by death,” she said walking forward and kneeling next to the other figure. Touching the hilt of Arctic and Ice with her right hand she touched her other to the ground. “I swear on my honor and name as a member of the royal family in Nyree. I also swear on my sword and on the knowledge of what would happen to me as a knight of the realm pledged to the King, if I failed.” As she spoke the oath the sapphires within her sword glowed and the sound of ice crackling as it formed underneath her hand at her intense focus could be heard. “My my arm whither and my soul rot if I do not adhere to my oath.”

Edited by Gothicbloodygem, 24 September 2010 - 10:41 PM.

[Draco_Evlone]

((OOC - Yah delete my previous post if you can Swan, if not thats fine ignore it I couldn't edit it when I noticed my mistakes ))

The word came to the mess hall as it traveled through most of the castle in the morning. Standing up he looked at Kit and smiled softly "Duty Calls" he said softly before turning on his heel and was fixing to make his way to the throne room when a hand stopped his stride. Looking over his shoulder he looked into the jaden eyes of Kitrina, for the first time he noticed the love behind them. Her words came softly "The shield you bare has always been for the good of the king, your sword will still stand for what you really are... You will always be my champion" she slowly lifted her small frame up and kissed his lips slowly before baking away with her head down. Fang didn't know what to say or think, the horn blasted again and his attention was drew back to his duty. Walking with a firm stride he made his way to the thrown room, to take this place next to the rest of the warriors.

As Fang was out of sight she slumped down to her knees and placed her hands over her face. Slowly she started to cry knowing what was going to happen. "Fang please forgive me.." she said softly before closing her eyes and letting out the tears that were held within. She knew Fang from when she first came into the palace, and it was he who had took the blame for her first mistake in dropping a glass of wine on to the Queen's favored dress. Fang stood up and took the blame and paid for the dress which cost him three months salary. When the assassin had stabbed Fang, and he suffered the poisons bite. She never left his side, and even now she wouldn't. Fang's mind was not in the place he thought he was, and even in his slumber he would shout out in the mist of night trying to reach some figure within his dreams. At times Kit would awaken only to see that his magic flared out of him and caused things to wither and die or sprout and give life. She didn't share his bed, but she shared the room next to his own, and for this reason was cause of the king. The king knew what she mean to Fang, and Fang to her.. Love was a powerful tool and in this moment when Fang lost control of his mind, talked to people long gone, or had seen what no one else seen, the King was hard pressed and admitted to his council that Fang should be Retired from Active duty...

Crying softly she remembered what the Assassin's blade did to Fang....


Loud cries of pain could be heard coming from the infirmary as a blond haired warrior that was stabbed in the leg by the blade of a assassin struggled to release himself against the straps that held him. The poison was slow reacting and even more so slow to burn off. Magi as well those of the top physicians in the lands worked to save this man's life. Many of them suggested to the King to end his misery.. but the king refused and simply stated "He is a Warrior and Hero of the Crown, he is to live..." and the warrior did live. Months passed before the poison and fever broke, but the poison had its affects on the man's body. His mind was shattered, and his leg was crippled beyond means naturally to repair. When the poison broke the straps of the table were broken apart and when they found the man, he was standing guard outside the door of princess's room, in the armor that grew to big for his sickly body. The Warrior's Name who stood to his duty... "The Feared Fang, Champion of the Sword, High Captain of the King's Personal guard"..... Fang was lost within his own mind and time...

The great doors of the throne room opened as the tall and yet powerful warrior strode through. His stride as best as he could manage with a limp came strong and steady. As he came before the king he drew his swords and crossed them over his chest in the Salute of a Duel wielding warrior. "My blood, and soul to your orders my king" were the words that came out before. The guards in the room looked upon the aged warrior not with contempt, or even envy. They looked upon a man who was seen as a hero, a champion in his own right if not in his own mind. Fang stood saluting the king before sheathing his blades, the words of Kitrina still radiated upon his thoughts as he tried to figure out what she meant.

[Felenari]

Felix sheathed his blade and the fire dissipated. He stood up from kneeling and bowed to the king. "Apologies my lord. Onuthra seems to have a bit of a rowdy temper as of late." He said patting the sword on his hip. He looked the newcomer up and down and he felt his eyes linger in all the right areas on her slender figure. "I can see this trip working out already..." He thought to himself. He waited patiently for her and Fang to finish their oaths and Decided to introduce himself. "Felix, Felix Jaeger from Altdorf." He said holding out his hand. She seemed very familiar for some reason. "Did I run from this one's authority at some point? Barfight maybe? Bah she wouldn't remember this sly fox anyway." He thought to himself and flashed her his patented troublemaker smile.

[Gothicbloodygem]

Finishing her oath she heard Roxa as she said her own, though in her unique manner, right after Alaina. Hearing another voice commit his “blood, and soul to the king her eyes glanced his way. A brow lifted as she saw the double swords. 'I want to beat him...' she thought immediately. She'd never gone up against another warrior specially skilled in the art of dual sword's. Alaina had learn it by being guided by a very wise old man who'd lost the sight in his left eye.

She lifted her hand from off her double hilts and moved her fist within the ice that had formed around her fist. The sharp cracking echoed through the room as she broke her hand free. Finally doing so, she stood. Adjusting her family swords she looked closer at the men, roughly, on either side of her. Lowering her eyes carefully and quickly she glanced down to discern with leg caused the extra shuffling movement from the newest man. 'Old injury... or new?' she thought critically.

Her mind was turned away from analyzing what that would mean for their group as the first man preemptively introduced himself. Forcing a graceful smile befitting that of a lady she inclined her head. She was about to give him her hand when she looked him fully in the face.

It was the smile that did it. That same cat that got the cream she'd seen a few years back after she'd failed protecting a small village's richer assets. The bandit had made off with the loot and announced “No honor, no Glory!” with the same reckless smile before riding away. She tried looking into him only to find a string of unrelated happenings and no way to find him. The man had just disappeared! He was the only task, though it was one of her firsts, she'd failed in all her six years formally serving her Lord Ferial. This 'Felix' was the second man to confound her in all her five and twenty years as well. It irked her to say the least.

Her arm drew back and she really wanted to plant him a faser. She felt the slight jolt of electricity as Roxa intervened. Alaina shifted her eyes and met the cat's for a brief moment before looking back to the merc. “Sir Lady Alaina Wolfe,” she said slowly, reaching out her hand to give him a firm -if cold- handshake. “Pleased to meet you,” she finished, the niceties coming form her lips strained.