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Ryn struggled with the binding around his wrists as he glared at Luferius.

"I did what I had to, to save her! Your Lord killed himself in attempt to kill Nyx! I came here to save Ari from death, but it seems I have failed in that as well.." he said, turning to Ari.

"At least now you can live forever."

The vampire kept a firm grip on the girl, looking down at the blood crystal that was supposedly hers. "I'm afraid that it is too late, my Queen. You are no longer mortal. The pendant that has chosen you has already drained away the last of your humanity and given you the great honor of an immortal existence." Letting go, he gestured to a nearby looking glass. "See for yourself if you wish." Pulling Ryn to his feet, Luferius sneered at the prisoner. "However noble your intentions were, they only worsened at the end." He snapped the finger of his right hand as two guards entered the room. "Immediately escort him to the dungeon to await his execution." The guards bowed and dragged the prisoner away.

Luferius was quick to block the girl's path as he led her back into the room with a firm hand. "I'm afraid that I cannot allow you to associate with such criminals, my Lady." He set her in a nearby chair and gave a low bow. "I apologize that you had to witness such a scene so early in your reign. I am Luferius, Captain of the Royal Guards and your most humble servant." Standing upright, he placed a thoughtful hand to his chin. "This is a most unusual occurrence. For the past thousand years the ruler of Rosencroix Kingdom has been a very powerful vampire king. They have all known our way of life and have had much experience in the ways of royalty." Circling around the girl, he continued. "You are very fair and will make a lovely Queen, but there is still the matter of learning how royalty behaves and a full study of our history. I will take it upon myself to aid you in this, as will the others."

In one rapid movement Luferius was in front of her, lifting her chin up to look him in the eyes. "First rule of being in a position of power: Do not lower your gaze when conversing with anyone, be it close friend or powerful foe. This 'Ryn' was a member of the Council of Darkness, enemies of the Kingdom."
Removing his hand, he paused to rest it reverently on the pendant. "Anyone who is associated with Nyx will most assuredly make attempts on your life. You have my solemn oath that I will keep all harm from you, my Queen."

Seeing that his words were beginning to sink into the girl's mind, the vampire gave one more slight bow. "I know that this has been a very exhausting day for you. I suggest that you get some rest. I must return to my duties and double the guards throughout the castle grounds. If you require anything at all, please do not hesitate to call. Rest well, my Queen."
Excusing himself, Luferius closed the chamber doors and summoned two more guards. "Watch this room closely. No one enters or leaves, understood?" The two guards saluted, taking positions on each side of the doors as Luferius left to secure the Great Hall.

Upon approaching the chamber doors, Luferius dismissed the guards that he had set in place. He reached a hand and unlocked the magical barrier on the door before entering. The room was very much as it had been when he left, save that the Queen was now sleeping silently on the large bed. Soundlessly the vampire crossed over to further examine the sleeping form, taking a seat on the edge of the mattress. It puzzled him how such a frail human could have so quickly risen to such a high standing in the realm of vampires. Even now as his penetrative gaze sought out the answer, he could not begin to fathom it.

A dark energy wisped into the room, unhindered by door or any magical barriers. Gliding up next to Luferius, Nyx's familiar voice whispered into his head. Confused? I don't blame you...after all, you have served here for so much longer. It seems unfair for such a weakling to have a higher position than you. Think about it...you would make a much better ruler...

The small voice giggled. It was only a thought..of course, you would never be able to do anything without my help. You have darkness, but not enough...If you ever grow tired of such a low position, just let me know... The last of the voice faded into an eerie echo before all was silent.