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 Posted: Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:59 am
 Kingdom and Title:Veritas; head of staff (butler)
Location and Situation: Starting to try to "fix things"In culture after culture, people believe that the soul lives on after death,
that rituals can change the physical world and divine the truth,
and that illness and misfortune are caused and alleviated by spirits, ghosts, saints ... and gods.
~Steven Pinker
It took a few minutes to concentrate, though it wasn’t the brutality that awed him. He had seen such displays before, both when alive and as a spirit. But it was rather all the commotion about him from the living that was such a distraction. He felt someone brush by his form, and realized he had no solidity to it. Frowning at his lack of propriety, Kirkis willed himself to be fully substantial, not wanting to further make the guests uncomfortable by reminding them he was a spectre. Many believed he was perfectly human (well, perhaps a little special), but it was a guise he preferred to keep if he could.
He still had a heart, though not in the strictest living sense, but it hurt to watch the Princess Naedira attempt to heal Prince Lucien. The butler watched as Heir Ryan, being a noble brother, tried to spare his sister this path of madness, and ended up only dirtying himself by pulling the body away from Naedira, perhaps in an attempt to snap her out of it. The Prince, it seemed, could bare it no longer, and after looking towards the table for Avarice (Kirkis could not see the glare from his angle; nor did he notice any looks from that direction), he got up and left, obviously very much bereft though he had wanted to help his sister.
Kirkis moved towards Naedira, and placed his hands on her upper arms, squeezing slightly. The touch would feel cool, but not the ice-cold shock of ghost hands since he was wearing his white gloves. “Princess,” he whispered to her, wishing he could save her this pain, but it was not his place at all. “Princess, he is gone. There is nothing you can do but to bring harm to yourself, and that would do no good to anyone.” He tried to pull her up, if she would permit him. “I will clean this up, and make sure that Prince Lucien and Heire--Princess Dorian will be prepared for a proper funeral. Their bodies will not be disrespected by anyone, I promise.”
Whether or not he was able to get through Naedira’s mind, he let go of her now, and focused his god-gifted powers on removing the corpses. It took a lot of concentration to do so, as well as remove any of the stains. The scent of blood was another matter, but was at least gone enough for a good portion of the guests to no longer smell it. However, they would have a hard time forgetting the visual memories that had been engraved in their brains, and even though Naedira’s dress was spotlessly cleaned, she would probably long remember the warm and wet sensation of it under her knees and legs.
The effort took a lot out of the ghost butler, though he was unable to clean things such as Ryan’s attire because he had left the dining hall. He even seemed to shimmer for a second, until he was able to reground himself, becoming as solid as any of the living. He motioned to one of the servants to begin serving the main course of dinner, his look indicating yes, he was quite serious. It would not matter that some persons might end up leaving soon, but it was his duty, and he took to it loyally. He wished to escort Naedira to her place (or even her room, or elsewhere, if she wished), in order to continue his duties. But he would not rush her, only place his cool hand at her elbow, and whisper once more, “Princess Naedira, I am your servant while you are here, please permit me to escort you where you will.”
He had not seen Evony and Altonair near the entryway, but at least they had each other, as he had pledged to help this princess, for there was only so much a butler could do, even if he was a ghost.Behind every man now alive stand 30 ghosts, for that is the ratio by which the dead outnumber the living.
~Arthur C. Clarke[Art is once more by Maniac. Click on image for larger pic. Please do not copy; I commissioned artist for this art.]
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Posted: Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:41 pm
 
It seemed, with each passage he wrote to those aiding in conquering the kings, that it grew colder, foreboding of a war that none may readily win. The debate swelling within his breast had been building for three fortnights – should the Creed fail, all would be lost to the tyranny of their lords. And should they win.... he shuddered, closing his coal hued eyes as the images painted themselves across his conscience. Neither was an ideal scenario; both spelled disaster for the commoners, whether they could see the uprising on the horizon or not.
The church wanted the land, wanted to send their men onto the Holy Lands; but the King had viciously taken a crusade against those in Hubris against their wishes because they refused to absolve him of his adultery. And the war tore across the country in retaliation was still at a stalemate. Each had their wins; each had their losses. That Justice was not reduced to a desolate wasteland with the two different types of war foraging within its borders said a lot of the will of its people. That the king had not yet sent a son to the castle for safekeeping said more.
But the political unrest was building all the same, Relky knew that. What had once been whispers to the wind were now exclaimed to the hills with the utmost passion. The King had no right at all to denounce the Church of Justice; that he was the supreme ruler of the kingdom, and did not have to answer to the voices of the Gods. Relky released another long breath from his lungs – the words of the decree forever etched in his memory. “A king of any sort of sovereignty should nor ever will again, be reduced to that of a puppet for the church's whims. While many a good men have been elected to the higher positions to act as the voice of the Gods, many more could be deemed corrupt, greedy clergy men. All of those within that chamber of life are of common blood – not fit to sit upon the seat of the throne. From this day onward, the King of Justice shall, in all endeavors of the state, be his own ruler as well as for the rest of the kingdom.”
Many, many were against the sentiment, the very grain of the declaration, when for so long Justice had tried to stay within the graces of the church. Some kings had done it out of superstition, believing if the church became angered with the monarchs that they'd be cursed, that the entire country would suffer; other kings had listened to the church's council because of their devotion to the Gods. But none had ever dared defy the church in such a way – to remove all of their power would be the inevitable fall of the kingdom!
Truly, Relky thought, that this would be Justice's undoing...
Perhaps it was best that they ever remove the stain of the Cromwell legacy from Justice's high seat.
But he'd served as chancellor for Edmund Cromwell III for nigh on fourteen years; if only he could commit with such arduous passion to the idea of killing the man. Yes, he'd had his faults – a tempest's
temper not the least of them – but he'd been a fair king. Until now.
All this, over a mere woman. There was a reason they didn't plant much stock in women; they were oft the weakness of men, who lost themselves to a lady fair – Edmund had done the same, and the dichotomy that the choice left his country in, was hardly one to be proud of. Those in his cabinet had been coerced into pledging an oath to support the king's decision to strip the church's leader of his power. And those who could not in their hearts, swear to this allegiance, had been 'removed.' From burning at the stake in hopes of cleansing them of their evil spirits, to hangings to beheadings... it'd not taken the kingdom long to decide to back the king in his decision, else they be next to see the gallows.
The highest warrant out was for that of the church's favored man – the one they intended to crown when all of the Cromwell sons had been removed, was unpaid... for they'd been prudent enough to seek Veritas' protection. Valas Enteri, a devout man, an earl... was the best candidate for the throne.
But Relky only had to guess when the hiding place for the man was revealed to the King. With all his heart, he hoped it wouldn't be. For Justice needed someone new, someone not sired from Edmund Cromwell.. because he had little faith in any of the king's stock – the eldest sons no doubt as ruthless as their father, and likely as skilled in tactics as their father.
No... what they needed now was one who the church would support, one that wouldn't bring a curse to darken the grassy knolls of Justice..... and it was that thought, that hope, Relky drifted to sleep to, praying that Edmund wouldn't learn of his involvement to kill him, or his sons. For if he did, Relky's last breaths would be coming much too soon.
***
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Posted: Thu Dec 15, 2011 7:04 pm
Kingdom: Patience Status: Heir Location: Castle - Maelona's room Doing: Well, at least one of us looks good.
xxxI'm blessed yet damned At the heir’s words, the princess nodded. "I understand. It must be rather difficult growing up with one name and now being expected to answer to another." She hesitated slightly before continuing. "If it is truly what you wish me to call you, I shall, but only if it is comfortable for you." He nodded himself to her words. He would have to get used to it he supposed, even if he didn’t like it. Thantos was not the name of a prince; merely a no-name thief from the back of Patience.
Even if he missed that life with all his heart, it was behind him now. Wasn’t it?
He smiled as his sister agreed with his comment about the safety of the world in which they were staying. "Yes, I do have to agree with you. I sometimes think that it would have been easier to stay in the borders of Patience." There had been far too many deaths within these walls, and how many of them were merely because all these royals from warring kingdoms were sandwiched in together.
He thought of Evony, and how sweet she was. She was an Envian, and he got along well with her when they were in the catacombs. But not all of the other royals were as nice as that princess. Her brother, Altonair, was a nasty piece of work.
At his casual lamentation of his new position in life, the princess smiled gently. "All of that can be learned. No one can expect you to find your heritage and be ready to accept it in such a short amount of time." But the thing was, he was supposed to have some memory of his parents and siblings. He had lived for years with his parents before he had been taken, and he could remember none of it. His first memories were of forests and caves, not castles and gems. If he were to be a real prince, he would have to recover that past. Somehow.
Maelona seemed slightly taken aback at the heir’s stumbling invitation. She blinked a few times – it must have been the accent – before nodding regally. She smiled warmly, and curtsied. "I would be delighted. It would be nice to spend time with you, and I am sure they will have something left for those of us who are late."
She moved into the hallway, silk dress whispering as she moved across the stony floor. She closed the door to her bedroom, and then looked at Thantos. "Are you adjusting well to the thought of being heir?" Of all the questions to ask, she had to ask that one.
Thantos smiled, or tried to smile – the expression turned out more like a grimace than anything else. He schooled his expression before answering.
“Oh, yes. It’s an ‘onour, bein’ heir ta Patience.” He lied, his tone, if not his expression, as warm as it should be. He hadn’t spent over ten years as a thief without being able to lie convincingly. “Oi’m lookin’ forward ta seein’ our parents again.” His parents. What would they think, if they could see him now?
Instead, he offered his arm. That was the right thing to do, wasn’t it?
“Shall we?”
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxI'm all of nothing  {{Oval Orange Cats:}}
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Posted: Thu Dec 15, 2011 10:46 pm
 Corrine Brooke Masterson Kingdom: Wrath ✩ Rank: Arch Duchess ✩ Location: Her Old Chambers || Outside the Dining Hall ✩ Never a Dull Moment  She was tired enough from the events of the last few hours that she inadvertently ignored the bard's request for more information concerning the dream she'd mentioned in passing. Instead, her attention was consumed with making sure that Sokar was properly attired now so that they could put these events behind them and she could get some rest to ease the pounding of her head. He found something to his liking within the bard's knapsack, the brunette relieved to see that their adventure together was almost at it's end. Kirios was proving to be ever the gentleman, offering the gardener more of his own clothes should his transformation be more permanent that he desired.
Corrine nodded in agreement with Lorelei as she voiced her hopes that their lord would get down to the bottom of all this soon enough. The siren was truly a kind heart, offering to make the afflicted Sokar some breeches to fit his size when she had time. Sewing was a skill the the Arch Duchess herself possessed, at the insistence of her father, but not one that she often employed. After all, her interests had always lay in swordplay and battle strategy as opposed to needlework and embroidery. Despite her fatigue, she perked up slightly when the princess insisted that they head to the dining hall, claiming that something was occurring. If it required their immediate attention, she could only assume that it was sinister, the thought of an impending battle putting a tint of mischief into her green eyes.
"Then to the dining hall we'll adjourn," she said simply, a sweep of her hand towards Sokar indicating that she would follow him as the princess suggested. The last thing they needed was to get lost in the hallways once more. As they made their way out into the hallways, Sasha once more approached her, again inquiring as to the nature of the dream she'd mentioned earlier. Her eyes wandered over to him, as if searching him over for a moment before turning her gaze forwards once more.
"It was nothing to really concern yourself with, Sir," she said simply, though he then went on to describe many of the same sights and all-to-real smells she'd been subjected to in this dream hell. She was ever too aware of Kirios's close proximity to the conversation, and his apparent interest in the substance of her dreams as well. Had he also been granted a glimpse into the whorish visions that had played through the Arch-Duchess' mind? Perhaps the magic that had changed Sokar from beast to man had allowed them access to her dreams. That was a discomforting notion, indeed. Did he see everything that she'd done in the dream? And who she'd done it with? Those thoughts were unacceptable for even the lowest of being in the Wrathian hierarchy.
"I don't know how you saw into my dreams, Sir, but I assure you, a lady of Wrath would never act in such a manner. Breathe a word, your throat will meet my blade with little delay." Her voice was low, an unmistakable tone of dangerousness in it that she hoped the others would not be able to hear. The tone did not match the calm expression on her face despite the fact that her mind was racing a mile a minute. If anything, it'd probably make her seem even more dangerous - she was a woman that had killed before, likely for much less - if they knew what was good for them, they would not utter a syllable of what she'd experienced in the nightmarish world she'd encountered. Thankfully, they soon reached the dining hall, Corrine immediately taking note of Sokar's slight change in mood. His broken English left her with a sense of foreboding, her hand gently trailing down to brush against the hilt of the kukri hidden beneath the folds of her skirt. Her eyes followed the gardener as he broke away from them towards the grounds outside, she could only imagine.
The princess of Lust seemed very hesitant to enter the dining hall, Corrine stepping forward and laying a gentle hand on her shoulder.
"If there is danger, you must tell us what you know, my lady. I'll do everything in my power to make sure nothing happens to you, but I must ensure that none of my kin-." Before COrrine should finish her sentence, Ryan came through the door, her green eyes immediately drawn to the deep red stains on his shirt, splattered across his visage. That was not wine. He looked of a man that had just seen death, and his words confirmed it, Corrine's expression hardening. He stared intently at Lorelei, the Arch Duchess momentarily wondering if there was more between the two nobles than friendship. Sasha suggested that they turn their sights on another destination, the news that someone had died now creating an overwhelming desire for the brunette to find her family and ensure their safety.
Approaching Ryan, her voice became uncharacteristically soft, though she dared not touch him. She did not know him near well enough to comfort him with physical contact.
"My lord, I suggest you retire to your chambers. Change your clothes and wash the blood from your face. I'm sure the princess and her bard would accompany you, and make sure you're delivered there safely. Her eyes moved to the two individuals in question, as if silently asking them to accompany the heir elsewhere until he calmed down from what he had seen. It was inevitable that she would now be on her guard, moreso than before - inter-kingdom politics always made her nervous.
"I must find Lincoln. If he doesn't know about these events already, he'll want to." She seemed to be speaking to no one but herself, words softly spoken before she suddenly became aware of everyone else's presence once more. Clearing her throat softly, she turned to Kirios, one hand moving to her temple as she gave a soft shake of her head.
"I'm sorry our meeting couldn't be under less stressful circumstances, but I need to find my cousin. You're welcome to tag along, if you'd like, but I understand if you have more pressing matters to attend to, General."Perhaps he had his own people who would need to be informed of these events - either way, she was not opposed to spending a bit more time with him. Those explicit thoughts would remain guarded behind more important things. ((Oodles Of Carrots: )
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Posted: Thu Dec 15, 2011 11:15 pm
 Pic by vishstudio; click for larger shot
Location/Situation and Form: Leaving friends, finding persons among the gardens; still human, but at least with pants.All things truly wicked start from an innocence.
~Ernest Hemingway
Sokar felt more than a little grateful at the kindness offered to him even by the other man, and wondered if perhaps they all saw something wrong with the pants he’d borrowed from Sasha. He did not think in terms that they were perhaps too polite to say something directly, but rather they just weren’t blunt like wolves with more common sense. Or perhaps it was merely another human thing, another puzzle he did not have the patience at the moment to try to figure out.
He was not sure they’d understand, but he was sure there was nothing else to be done, so he did not want to burden them with his presence. If they heard of good news for him, surely they’d find him and tell him. Until then, they had human things to do, and he had observed that not many kept in groups with the servants like himself. That made sense to him, no alpha would be around an omega unless they wanted to pick on them, or were just feeling very generous. It was nothing he was bothered by at all, not like some of the humans in the castle, at least.
Leaving his companions without any unnecessary words, Sokar headed outside and managed to get there without much trouble from the castle hallways this time around. On the grounds, he tried to remember what he had been working on before that woman-witch had doubly cursed him. He did recall he had to check on some newly planted roses, which should have been handled by now. As the head gardener, he did have several others manage similar jobs, but he was the one who oversaw everything, and either approved it or not.
Missing the easy movements that could be made by a wolf body, he ambled towards where he had expected this job done, and was slightly surprised to see two servant girls (Ella and Aoife) near the area to be used, though nothing seemed to have been finished yet, or even started. He was not very happy to see no work had been done, but he was not a harsh taskmaster. He had never met them, even as his wolf or werehuman self, so he figured he needed to make an introduction. Of course, a greeting of the wolf variety would be out of the question, but he could make do with the few things he had learned from his newly made human friends.
“Good evening,” his gruff voice announced his presence from behind the two young women. There, he’d used a human greeting. One thing down, at least, though he was not sure how many others he would have to use. It was natural to want to please females, even if he had no interest in them at all consciously. “I am Sokar. Gardener. Who you?” All right, names, those were useful too, since exchanging scents was not an option.
He looked at the basket one of the females held, and saw the rosebuds that needed to be planted. “Those good. Go there, yes.” He didn’t wish to make them uncomfortable, but he wanted to make sure they made a good start on these, so he wouldn’t have to correct them when it was too late for the flowers.
We are each our own devil, and we make this world our hell.
~Plutarch (46 AD - 120 AD)
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Posted: Fri Dec 16, 2011 7:39 pm
Location~ Dining Hall: Observing room, then approaching Dominique Blending in to the surroundings was an easy thing for Petyr, so watching as the Avarician princess decimated her rivals in front of all the other prominent citizens, and barely being noted (aside from a few of the castle servants), was a usual situation for him. He’d entered the dining hall just before the announcement of Dorian and Lucian’s treason echoed off the walls. He knew of the their situation. As he knew of almost everyone’s situations when it came to their homeland struggles. War and peace were always public discussions. Private affairs however, are a little more difficult to find out, unless you know the right people, or have the right means to acquire it. Petyr never really cared to know about the sleeping habits of others, let alone the manners in which they presented themselves in court. He only cared when he was told to care, and his father had a way of making him do just that when it came to the other royal houses. So it was no surprise that the d’Aquitaine beauty did what she did and how. To show mercy and weakness now was a sure way to open the door for more contention.
He had felt bad for the surrounding people that had to witness the brutality of her methods. He sipped his tea while he watched as a young girl lost the spark of an increasingly rare innocence from her eyes. Petyr had learned all the names of the royals long ago, but until tonight many of them remained faceless. Hers still needed a name, but the man who eventually ran to her aid gave him some idea. A Wood, probably Evony. He had overheard Altonair’s name, as well as the others in his company. King Riley being of primary interest. The man was how his father had described him, not having ever seen him himself. Naedira was the beauty that many back home, those that had the luxury of seeing her once before, described her to be. He thought he had observed looks between her and the man standing next to the Avarician princess, but couldn’t be certain from his angle. The simple idea of it brought many possibilities of hidden allegiances to mind, until the more apparent stare from the man seemed rather ugly. There was no friendship in that glare.
He put his fork down softly when Naedira ordered for an undertaker, when an apparition eventually entered the room and moved towards the bodies. Soon after, the Shield Maiden followed suite, and by the look of her actions she seemed to have been close to the fallen, and was now touching one of them while praying. A slight twinge of remorse for her loss coursed through him. Sorrow was a simpler pain in his mind, and would soon heal, unlike her friends. The glow from her hands led him to believe that she was trying to do just that. The maiden’s brother tried to stop her endeavors by pulling the body away, only soiling himself in blood. Petyr’s eyes fell upon the Woods once more, observing the little lady’s struggle with sanity and her older brother’s attempts at consoling her, before turning to the Avarician again. She was demanding more wine, no longer showing any interest in the picture she had just painted for everyone. A large beast entered, only to then nestle down near its master. Another man entered (Theoran), and Petyr assumed he wasn’t a servant by his dress and by the way he took in the scenery and nonchalantly gazed towards the Heiress.
Petyr had come to Veritas’ castle on his father’s order, and only because it was so. Otherwise he never would have come of his own volition. He was his father’s shield and should be with him this very moment, but the struggle Justice was going through led his father to make the decision he was currently following. Petyr had understood that there was another reason for his being here, and would follow through with it as soon as he could. He hadn’t wanted to make himself known, hoping the dinner would have gone smoothly. But now was one of the opportunities his father would so often discuss with him. Taking one last swig, he watched Ryan Riley leave the hall then slowly rose from his chair. He made his way easily, mindful to keep his distance from anyone until he worked his way closer to his target.
As he moved nearer to the Avarician Heiress, once she had finished her private conversation with the man that accompanied her, Petyr poised himself as a dutiful prince, and while remaining several feet from her he began his courtesy. “Your Grace.” Tilting his head ever so slightly he continued, “I am Petyr Cromwell, a prince of Justice. I wish to congratulate you and your family on your victory in recovering what was rightfully yours. I do not wish to interrupt your meal, but I would be greatly honored if we could share a drink of wine together.” He wasn’t sure if this was being too forward, but perhaps she was aware of Justice’s similar situation and wouldn’t mind the intrusion.
Justice means minding one's own business and not meddling with other men's concerns.
Plato
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Posted: Sat Dec 17, 2011 1:17 pm
Ɉϕɧɳ Ӎiҫɧɑϵɭ Gɍϵϵɳϵ Kingdom: Fortitude Rank: Prince Location: Hallway with Tao, that presence seems strangely familiar... White walls surround us
As we sleep among the dead ((I didn’t know exactly where Stefen and Alex were. So, if I messed it up, let me know and I’ll edit it.)) A small mental sigh slipped through the mental channel. “It would not surprise me either. But, it would still be quite unpleasant.” Getting lost was never a pleasant thing. It was a mere inconvenience, and sometimes took away time needed for important things. But, for some reason, the castle didn’t seem to understand that. Though, John should probably not be putting the blame on the castle itself. For if the castle was enchanted, and it wasn’t their minds becoming delusional, then who else would find getting lost funny but their host? The God, Veritas. “I do wonder if they have repaired that area of the castle.” The angel could only assume so. However, with the recent deaths in the dining hall, the concerns of the staff would likely not be on the damaged property. At least, for now. “But, I would not be surprised if they haven’t, unless magic has been used to repair it. After all, their main concern right now will likely be the cleanup of the mess in the dining hall.”
It was not like war was within sight or war taking place near the castle. Thus, there was no reason to be immediately in a hissy fit over repairing it. However, John was sure the royals wouldn’t like to be staring a big gaping hole in the wall…“Nothing like staring at a gaping hole in the wall after a couple of murders though.” If John had been just a bit more twisted, he might have actually sounded like he was joking. However, his voice came off more as solemn with a hint of trying to lighten up the mood. But, how could anyone brighten up the day after learning such knowledge? Though, his attempt would have probably been worse if he had seen the dead bodies with his own eyes…
Then, the angel would probably found himself too solemn to even try to brighten up the mood. After all, John had been taught to at least be respectful of the dead. Thus, joking about their deaths? It was just something he would find hard to do whole-heartedly anyway. ”Most can’t say they have done that.” There really wasn’t any way to get his mind to a better state huh? Sure he could act like he hadn’t learned the knowledge. But, that would make him seem delusional and even more disrespectful of the dead. Maybe some rest will do me some good as well. After all, today has been a very interesting day. Those strange images not included.
Another strange image flowed through his head, causing him to rub his temple. This time, he could vaguely make out food in front of him. It looked delicious whatever it was. Though, the thing that caught his eyes was the people he was eating with. Their faces were a bit blurry, but something about them seemed familiar to the angel. It was almost like he had seen them before. From where though? As John looked at Tao, he couldn’t tell which was worse. Seeing vaguely familiar faces or people he did not know. However, a sense of deju vu went through him as he noticed a spark of energy hit Tao’s neck. Why do I feel like we just ate? That is odd.
He shook his head as he couldn’t tell from here what the spark of energy had done. But, if it had done what the energy had done earlier to Tao, it wasn’t good. Yet, the fact the energy was there….didn’t that mean Tao was gaining some energy back? The angel couldn’t tell rather or not to be relieved…or worried. Thus, the angel stuck with just plain neutrality as he kept moving forward. His plan was to get them back to his room, or to some place they could rest. After all, John wasn’t sure how far Tao would be able to walk in his current state. For now though, the angel would have to play it by ear. Coincidentally though, John heard Tao ask him where they were going. Ironic considering what John was just thinking about. “I was thinking my room. But, if you find yourself becoming too weak, we will just go back to the room you were in before. After all, I do believe it is closer.”
As they walked though, John would occasionally try seeing if there were any minds nearby he was familiar with. It was to keep them from being snuck up on. Though, it wouldn’t help if there were any unfamiliar minds. He would have to establish a connection with them first. Until he did, they were like barriers when he hit them, unexpected ones at that. As the two of them got near a staircase, John’s mind felt itself brush against a mind that was familiar to him. It was familiar due to the fact he definitely had established mental contact with this one before. But, by how the mental barrier felt, John hadn’t used his telepathy on this person in a while. Admittedly, that was quite strange considering he had only talked to Haven earlier. He had also talked to his parents earlier too. Could the mind have been Gabriel’s? The two hadn’t talked in a bit. However, that didn’t explain how the mind felt…different.
He couldn’t quite place why it didn’t feel the same. However, it made him extremely curious. The angel could only hope the intrusion would not cause the person(Alex) to be scared…too badly. Thus, John stopped briefly in front of the staircase, his eyes looking up at the stairs, not able to see who was on top of the stairs. “I am sorry to intrude like this. But, strange as it sounds…I feel like I know you, for my telepathy is unable to find a mind familiar unless I have established mental connection with them….Yet…it feels like ages since I have talked to you…” A vague idea started forming in his mind as to who might be at the top of those stairs. But, he shook it off, knowing that was highly unlikely…. “But, I am sorry to say I am unable to come up the stairs and see for myself who are you….for someone I know is not in good condition….” The angel looked over at Tao before looking back at the stairs. “And I need to get him to my room so he can rest and recover from his injuries.”
The angel was still waiting for a bad reaction. After all, he knew he shouldn’t have just reestablished a mental connection without warning like that. However, it was possible this would be the only time their paths would cross, him and the person who felt familiar(Alex). Thus, John felt the risk was well worth the consequences. “If you are someone I know, I am at the bottom of the stairs and shall be heading towards the rooms. If not…then please forgive my intrusion, and may you have a good day.” The angel looked back at Tao before starting to move down the hallway again.
“Sorry about that…” That was all John felt like saying to Tao at that moment as he noticed the room he had found Tao sleeping in. He looked over at Tao again, his silver blues looking over the thief to see if they needed to stop. The thief still looked in bad shape, and made John think they should rest here. However, it was not bad to ask. Also, a small part of him was trying to extend time just a little. After all, if the person(Alex) was someone he knew, he didn’t want to get too far and make it impossible for the person to find him. That would be rude on his part. Not that what he did to talk to them wasn’t rude either… “What do you think? You want to go ahead and stop in here, or do you want to go to my room? I do not want to make you have to go further if you feel you cannot make it.” Now was the time to wait and see what would happen first…..the person(Alex) showing themselves, or if Tao dictating their next move. We can chase the dark together
As the sky returns to grey
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Posted: Mon Dec 19, 2011 9:17 pm
  Necromancer of JusticeLocation: Hallways She did not have to "see" him to notice the jump that resulted from her voice. She hadn't meant to startle him, though she was used to that reaction given the rumors that circulated about her powers and how she used them. There was a delay between her question and the man's response, though it was not the response she was hoping to get. How was it that no one was able to locate the heirs of one of the most important realms of the land? It was hard to hide the disappointment in her features as a hand pressed against the side of her head, though her exposed lips offered him a small smile. " I understand. Forgive my fatigue, I am just a bit worn from my journey. Apparently, my wards are more difficult to come by than I'd have hoped." He did not treat her as a royal, and she was glad to see that he was at least perceptive. Livia was ancient, and wise, but she was no royal. Her skills lay in support and protection, guiding souls across the realms as they needed. It was a role she had filled for a great many years, thanks to her powers that allowed her to extend her stay in the realm of light and life. One day, she would make the journey she'd helped so many with herself. At least one blessing of this exhausting day was the fact that her newest companion shared her fatigue, suggesting that they find someone to give them rooms, offering to help her look for the heirs while they searched for a ward of the castle. " You are most kind, Sir. I would love to take advantage of your company and extra set of eyes since you're so quick to offer them." He was clearly as fatigued as she was, so hopefully they would find someone soon that would be able to help them find a place to rest and recover from their separate journeys to the same destination. A sweep of her staff indicated that he should take the lead, Livia falling into step next to him as the pair set off down the hallways together. However, she only took a few steps when her secondary vision suddenly flashed, effectively whiting everything out. A sharp intake of breath escaped her as her staff fell to the ground, hands curling around the leather wrap obscuring her natural vision from view. There were several, sudden deaths in the area - she could sense them, feel them. Unwrapping her head wrap to expose her golden eyes, she blinked a few times, beads and bones clacking against each other as she stooped to pick up her staff once more. The balance of life and death had been momentarily upset, and for now, she'd need to rely on her earthly sight. " Pardon me, I just…unexpected souls, released into death's realm can be taxing when my body is this worn. I'll try not to fall behind." She gave him an apologetic smile, tattooed hands brushing thick, disheveled hair from her visage as she glanced up at him. He seemed so familiar to her somehow - how could that be? It was then that a Jester made his way towards them, his mask causing the Necromancer to tilt her head ever so slightly. He too seemed familiar, yet these were the firsts dwellers of the realm she had encountered since reaching the castle. This phenomenon was all too strange - the feelings of magic in the air suggested to her that something had happened - something she wasn't sure she would be too pleased with had she learned the truth. His words were amusing and flattering, all at the same time, though she had a feeling she'd already had this conversation with him before? It all seemed to….de ja vu. " You flatter me, Jester. My companion and I were seeking lodging to rest after our long journeys. I was also seeking the heirs of Justice - perhaps you know where they might be? After all, the Jester of such a castle likely knows the inhabitants quite well, if he is as entertaining as you." She couldn't help but smile in an amused way at his tone of speaking, tossing chestnut brown hair over her shoulders to reveal the series of tattoos down her neck as well. Still, she looked tired, only half as enthused as she might have been otherwise. While she reveled in death, Livia enjoyed meeting the living - it made following their journey that much more interesting. (( OOC: Sorry I missed Claus! Editted. ))
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Posted: Tue Dec 20, 2011 3:31 pm
▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄ ▄▄▄▄▄ ▄▄ Princess of Humility || In the dining room || Wearing This Dress || Weapon ▄▄ ▄▄▄▄▄ ▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄ Madelyne was not surprised in the least when her father told Indigo that she would not be separated from her family. She hadn't expected that, nor truly wished for him to take her away. While it was true that she was fearful, she was far too concerned with the matters of her sister, as well as her brother and father, to want to leave them, especially with the gaze of the assassin still lingering on Naedira. She was a bit surprised, however, when her father told Indigo that he could stay with her if he was truly worried for her. She glanced over at Indigo then, a thought suddenly striking her. Why was the Astral Walker so concerned for her well-being? It wasn't like they had known each other for very long... Perhaps this was a budding friendship? Madelyne had to admit that she hadn't had a true friend since she was very young. Yes, she had her sister now, but this was entirely different...
She noticed too Ryan's enraged expression to Indigo's request. She could understand why he would feel that way though. Indigo had chosen a rather bad time to introduce himself to her father. Not only that, but he hadn't honestly expected her father to agree, did he? Indigo's reaction to her father's words were rather calm though, as if he had anticipated his words. That is, until her father allowed him to stay. He quickly jumped to properly introduce himself... He even inquired if he could drop the formalities! Madelyne couldn't help letting her lips part with shock. What would her father think of such a question?
It was then that Indigo headed toward her direction and sat near her. "It is nice to see you as well, Indigo," Madelyne said, glancing quickly up to her father. She didn't know whether he was listening, or whether he cared at all about their discussion. She knew they had to be polite and modest in their topic choices, of course. Then again, Indigo had decided to drop formalities... As it so happened, Indigo chose to speak of the recent viewing of the executions. "It cannot be unseen, I'm afraid," she whispered solemnly. "How could I possibly take it from my mind when the evidence lies not ten feet from us?" She shook her head thoughtfully. "I am no child, Indigo," she said suddenly, her voice still quiet. "Though past events may have made me seem weak, I am able to pull through this without any assistance..." Her voice returned to her normal volume. "I must thank you for you kindness, however. I admit that it is great distraction after such horrid events."
At his mention of a date, strange memories, if they truly were such, filled her again... A kiss on the hand... A revealing dress... The Astral's eyes wandering to her legs...?! Madelyne's face flushed. It cannot be that... that they're real? She wondered, unconsciously tightening her fist. ... How else could they be so vivid though? And, if that is the case, then Indigo and I have been on this date that I 'owe' him... But does he know that? Looking at Indigo gave no hint to what he knew, or didn't know. Madelyne didn't know what to say either way. She remembered how he had looked at her before, as to when that was she had no idea, and that only made her remember the conversation brought up at dinner earlier, of whether Veritas had picked a suitor for her. Madelyne was, and still was, sure that he would eventually. Naedira's voice, so sweet and collected had said, “Though…A selfish part of me hopes that our gracious host takes his time. I am in no hurry to lose you so soon, little love.” She felt the same, of course. So much time had been lost between them...
... Why was it that she thought of those things? Not only did she not see Indigo as a suitor, as of yet, she couldn't even image becoming someones fiancée. Not only that, but Veritas was sure to pick a man who she didn't know or cared for... Yet... She glanced over at Naedira, suddenly reminded of her and her betrothed, Altonair. They seemed perfectly compatible, if still learning about each other. Perhaps Veritas would bestow some small kindness toward Madelyne in that regard...?
Madelyne cast those things from her mind. What am I doing? She wondered. Indigo must think I'm distracted! She turned attention back to him only to be drawn to Naedira and Ryan. Her brother was trying to get their sister's attention, but her face was so covered with shock that she seemed unable to get a hold of herself. She grabbed his hand after a moment and let out almost an inaudible, "No". Madelyne felt herself tense up, ready to go to her sister in an instant. And then Naedira began to cry. "Naedira..." Madelyne whispered. As if remembering out of the blue that Indigo was still near her, she quickly said, "Please forgive me, but perhaps that conversation should wait... I must attend to my sister. Excuse me." Before the princess could reach her sister, however, Naedira had moved from her seat and demanded attention from the servants surrounding the room. Madelyne did not question this action. Clearly it was not appropriate to keep the dead individuals laying on the ground, especially in the middle of a dinner, though that latter fact could hardly be recalled by anyone except the murderers.
As if in a trance, Naedira then went to one of the dead, Lucien. She knelt beside him, bloodying her dress, and placed her hand on his head. Whispering something softly, a light then came from her palm. Madelyne knew immediately what she was doing. She can't save him, not in her state, she thought sadly. I could have, possibly, had I gone to him sooner. I'm afraid Dominique d’Aquitaine might have set her assassin on me if I had been successful... They must know Naedira has no strength right now... Ryan quickly went to Naedira's side, telling her to stop, but she still kept at it. The shock was overwhelming her, in front of everybody. By the time Ryan pulled Lucien's body away from her, Madelyne had gone to Naedira's side. She whispered calmly, making sure only her sister could hear, "Naedira, please, come back to us... It is over, dear sister." She took her arm gently. "... Here, hold on to me. Let us get you standing." Slowly helping Naedira up, Madelyne decided it was best for her to get some fresh air. She needed to get away from this room, from the people in it, from the death. It was obvious her sister had been closer to the two than Madelyne thought, and she knew that once she was removed from this room that Naedira would return to her senses, slowly perhaps, but surely... She wondered suddenly how their father was taking all this. Madelyne glanced over to him just as her brother walked toward the door. It was too much for Ryan as well, she mused, looking back to her sister.
Walking Naedira slowly over to their father, Madelyne asked him calmly, "If you don't mind, father, I think Naedira and I should go for a walk. I'll be sure to ask Monsieur Orizanko if he would be willing to accompany us as well." King Riley nodded, his expression hard to read. "Yes, it would be wise not to wander by yourselves. You may go." Madelyne curtsied, thankful, then she lead her sister over to Indigo. "I must apologize again for my behavior earlier," she said quietly. "... Perhaps you would be interested in accompanying Naedira and I? I think we both could use a walk outside." After he answered, Madelyne lead Naedira to the doorway, where they arrived just as Altonair said to Evony, "I'll need your help to uphold the Envy name and impress my betrothed's family." At this, Madelyne took a good look at Altonair's sister, at least, she assumed they were siblings. She was quite young... Too young, the princess thought, to have seen such a scene. To her surprise, however, Evony appeared to be in a relatively good mood. Regardless of whether she's fine or not, it would be best if she didn't have to watch the servants cleans up the floor, Madelyne thought, a slight shiver trailing down her spine as the images of the dead faces crossed her mind.
"Excuse me, Lord Altonair," Madelyne greeted him. "I hope I am not intruding, but my sister and I were just about to head out to the garden to get some fresh air. We would be delighted if both of you joined us." She turned to the young girl, not wanting to exclude her. "Forgive me. I am Princess Madelyne of Humility. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
{o.c.c. I was given permission to move Naedira/write for King Riley.~}
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Posted: Wed Dec 21, 2011 6:23 am
 
Chattering could be heard amongst the large mass of citizens, some heads bowed in silent whispering while others spoke openly with indignation. Fear was not permitted amongst the meetings, for trepidation was nothing but a sign of weakness and they had to be proud of the cause as any Hubrian would be.
Amongst the stilled feet came another form – much different than any ordinary human. It slithered between the crevices, moving towards the front of the room before pausing. Some of the men took notice while others continued to chat – quite oblivious to their leader’s presence. Once at the forefront of the crowd it began to change, shifting from the form of a serpent to something more akin to that of his brothers. With clothes magicked to fit him in both forms, he straightened out from his crouched position, smoothing out of the wrinkles in his attire as he stared out blankly.
He could hear them speaking clearly, though most of them had gone quiet at his arrival. ”Silence,” his voice was stern, followed by the hard knock of his gavel against the rickety table he stood before. This alone caused the remaining men to turn their attention to him, eyes glazed with an obvious interest for what he had to say. ”I’ve called this meeting because the time to act is approaching,” despite his diminished eyesight, he knew that every set of eyes in the room were focused on him. ”We must be prepared for the inevitable, and for what may happen if we carry out this plan,” his men knew the consequences of their actions well; they knew the risks they were taking by even congregating with such intentions to overthrow the crown.
Gage moved to press his palms against the table, leaning forward a bit as his eyes flitted around the dimly lit room. ”You mustn’t forget your purpose. Rodric’s downfall is far overdue,” it wasn’t the first time that he had referred to the king in such a lax manner and it wouldn’t be the last. Such lack of respect usually called for severe punishment but he was amongst allies, and neglecting the king’s title was the least of their worries as far as crimes went.
”He must be disposed of, and we must ensure that his children disappear alongside him,” the crowd stirred a bit, and each man exchanged glances casually. ”Rodric is far too unstable to command a kingdom – he cares far too much about chasing skirts instead of the good of his people; his children are no better. Spoiled brats, far too sheltered to be potential heirs – it is time to end this,” his lips pressed into a hard line, glancing to the side as one of his men stepped forward.
”Aye, I couldn’t agree with you more. I’m sure I speak for everyone here when I say that we will follow you until the very end,” a wave of nods and agreements erupted from the others as they stared up at their faithful leader. And the end would soon come. [[ooc: brought to you by one of the lovely mods]] 
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Posted: Wed Dec 28, 2011 9:09 am
Location: Dining Hall- Where is my mind?  ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Her forget-me-not eyes were in an odd state, indeed; pushed so wide by the vehemence of her shock that, if they were to grow any larger, one might posit they’d spill out of their sockets entirely! The poor princess was quite a mess, still, her mind seemingly gone to some far away place, a safe haven of its own, wherein the travesties of the Dining Hall might not reach it. So it should have been of no surprise to anyone that, when Evony’s brother spoke to her yet again, the child merely stared blankly. Comprehension on any deepened level was momentarily beyond her; he could have said anything and she would have given him no better reaction than to look onward with that same, empty stare.
The state would prove temporary, yes, but hadn’t quite run its course at this point. Words from her brother, albeit unintelligible to her now. A slow blink, a nod, in reaction. It was the most Altonair would get from his sister for now, and he’d likely glean at her current inability to even understand what he’d asked of her. Still, he could take her hand and, albeit mechanically and without thought, the girl would go wherever he led her.
Evony showed no deeper sentiment towards Madelyne when she approached, recognizing only that the women’s voice was docile and sweet. Idly, she stared onward through her introduction though, having only the sense about her to move closer to Altonair, to fasten her hand in his if he’d allow it, but not yet to string together any words of her own. When Evony’s senses would finally return to her, she’d feel embarrassed for many of her blunders on this particular evening, not excluding the failure to properly introduce herself to another princess.
And that clarity would come soon enough, but not just yet; not while they lingered in a room which had only recently housed so many horrors.
((OOC: sorry for the wait. The holidays have kept me really really busy. Didn’t have much to do with evony because shes still in shock and stuff. Feel free to move her around wherever though. :] ))
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Posted: Fri Jan 06, 2012 1:40 am
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ Ӄῐηɠɖѻɱ: Avarice
Ƚѻҫӓʈΐѻη: Veritas Kingdom - Dining Hall
Ɍӓηҟ: Heiress ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━  The carnage she’d caused in the dining hall was slowly fading from her mind. All that remained were visions of blood and darkness dancing in head like sugar plums and fairy’s… A macabre children’s story. Glittering aquamarine orbs watched her Vice Marshal with subdued interest…Much the way a man or woman of science would watch a creature scurry about in a maze, to which there was no end. He watched the Shield Maiden of Humility far too intently… Had they met somewhere before?
It seemed highly unlikely to her…But what were the odds of their paths crossing again, after so long, and becoming so hopelessly intertwined. She didn’t blink, red painted lips and pale powdered face seeming perfectly doll like…Innocent, in all things. But Fandral would know, of he remembered her at all from her younger years, what her temper was capable of. She could appear a calm, serene sea one moment…But the next a violent, crushing storm.
Any infraction on his part would incur her ire. This was a delicate time… And all present needed to understand that aside from her Father, the returned King of Avarice, and her Dowager-Lady-Queens… Her words were law. Her family held it’s heiress just as responsible for the actions and decrees from the crown. If she was old enough to be revered—They saw her fit enough to take responsibility for her own affairs.
Not that they did so willingly… She was still but a child to her parents—To her people. A mere slip of a girl-child…In human society, watching her take the power of her lineage into her own hands would be akin to watching a toddler take their first few steps.
Fandral’s renewed vow to her caused her firm expression to soften… Though not by much. The servants had done as she had requested and had brought new goblets for her half of the table…One’s that would not carry a splatter of Cambion blood—Or another, meatier chunk. Her guardian and friend leaned towards her and whispered soft things in her ear…To some it may have seen intimate—Behind her gilded fan… But it was practicality, and nothing more.
The Heiress of Avarice smirked daintily behind her fan as he explained his fixation on Naedira Riley… Her brilliant blue-green orbs lit up, seeming to sparkle like perfectly cut gems. “Scarlet memories?”
“Are you sure they are of…The virgin princess?”, Dominique questioned softly, unable to keep the disbelief and laughter out of her tone. Anyone that knew anything about Humilitian royalty knew that their Shield Maiden was chaste until marriage… It would have been against everything she had ever read about Humility, past or present.
Her humor died, just as quickly as it came. If the woman truly had cast a spell on her Marshal…There would be hell to pay. Once again, her ever changing mood and ire fell away when she recalled her own…Odd visions. Living in some kind of…Prison for the mentally disturbed. Being denied her freedom… “While I do suspect some kind of witchcraft…I am not completely convinced that it came from my fathers new allies. I too experienced a strange… Patchwork of memories.”
“However…I require you to remain vigilant, my Marshal. I’ll not have the wool pulled over our eyes by some fey witch… But I cannot condone a course of action that will lead us to more open war. You may…Interrogate her, at your leisure. But do so with a nobleman’s caution and grace. Father would not approve of inciting an incident with an excuse of a very…Creative imagination.”, Dominiqe returned thoughtfully, closing her fan as someone else approached their table, she slid it back into a hidden pocket in her flowing golden brocade.
Looking out of the dining hall, she was pleasantly surprised to see that the remains of Dorian and Lucien Black had somehow…Miraculously disappeared. Her eyes flickered to Kirkis…How the Head of Staff had managed to remove the signs of absolute slaughter so quickly were beyond her. It even amused her.
Her concern with the House of Humility passed. She meant no harm to the King—Nor his progeny. So long as the middle child hadn’t placed some kind of curse on her guardian…Her goals for the night were accomplished. She’d removed the Cambion threat. Ended the line of the Malcanthet. That was all that mattered. Hearing an honorific in her direction she stilled…Seeming to become more like a statue, and less like a living, breathing, work of art.
“Bonne journée {Good Day}, Prince of Justice.”, Dominique responded with equal formality…Her tone was light…Almost playful, sweet and soft as a newly blooming rose. But beneath it all there was an edge of steel…Of unwavering confidence and backbone. It was not simply the poise of a princess…She was a petite-reine in the making. An Heiress, in her own right. She bowed to no one, cowered before no one…Even if they hailed from the all mighty Justice. The royal introduced himself, and the woman offered a respective incline of her head—Acknowledging him as an equal to her station. This was not to be taken for subservience, in any shape of the word. “I suspect that you already know my name…”
Considering she’d just announced it to the entire hall.
“But for propriety’s sake… I am Dominique Arielle D’Aquitaine. Heiress of Avarice…At my right is my Guardian—My Vice Marshal.”, she spoke gently, dark eyelashes seeming to shield her eyes in such a way that only secrets remained…They flickered between colors, ever moving…Mysterious and alluring in a way no mere mortal woman could be. Her hair shifted on its own accord from deep gold to a sun kissed blonde. Dazzling eyes slid over his form…Some might have considered it appreciative…But the Jewel of the d’Aquitaine was only looking for obvious weapons. “It’s a pleasure, my Prince.”
Her crimson painted lips formed a perfectly demure smile, her expression almost…Amused. Indulgent.
“…Sit… s'il vous plait {If it pleases you}.”
She signaled for the servants to bring another setting. They were still a little dumbstruck…And if possible, it made them slower than usual. Avarice truly had the market on timely, well trained domestics. Perhaps because they were so well paid. Good help was so hard to find. Wine was poured, and they wasted no time leaving the Avarician table...Leaving a new tray of fruits and dried meats behind…
They all feared that her wrath had yet to end. They were also, of course, correct to fear her.
“If I may speak plainly… It’s quite the political heresy for you to come to me now—While the blood of my enemy has proverbially…Yet to dry.”, the lovely woman trailed off, her words deliberately quiet. There were so many ears and eyes still trained in her direction… She dared not actually say what she was thinking. Aquamarine eyes flickered then as she smiled once more, raising her goblet to toast…”Though I cannot say I disapprove.”
How could she? A Royal of Justice seated calmly at her table mere minutes after a public execution at her hand? By her orders? It implied to those in the hall that her connections ran deeper than they did… It would keep retaliation towards her to a minimum. In truth, she ought to thank this attractively blue blooded Petyr Cromwell.
His congratulations was something she had yet to decide to respond to…They’d had many large victories…But the War was not yet won. There would be uprising in her family’s lands…Not everyone would enjoy the social changes her family would no doubt make. “I appreciate your words…But the D’Aquitaine do not see the end of the Malcanthet as a victory…It is a mere restoration of balance. The return to the natural order of things. They abused a stolen position of power…Mistreated our people and our land…Desecrated our most sacred of rites and treaties. Such things were destined to come to an end.”
She paused, taking a sip of the honey-mead in her goblet…No more than a delicate taste. “Is Justice fairing well in their…Endeavor, for a similar balance?”  
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Posted: Fri Jan 06, 2012 9:40 am
 Ӄɨɍɨϙȿ Ďɍɇɨȿȿɇὴ ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━✠ Ӄingdom: Justice
Ɍank: General
Ƚocation: Halls
Ⱦhoughts: One of the very few times I’d not like to be caught with my pants down… ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━✠ Kirios waved his hands over his chest as if to ward away some invisible offensive magic that stood in front of him once the Wrathian royal began with her threats. His expression was a mix of amusement and bewilderment, for he honestly had no idea of what she spoke. His own strange visions had nothing to do with the woman, even if they were rather incriminating in their own right. ”Milady, much as I’d exceedingly welcome a chance to cross swords with your highness, I highly doubt that your visions were indeed my own.” He inadvertently cast a quick glance over the siren in their presence and brought his attention back to the Wrathian arch duchess just as quickly. ”Even if my own were equally unspeakable, and shared similar characteristics,” he added with a slight smirk. Much as it was a serious matter(an intrusion of the mind was an intrusion nonetheless, after all), the general could not help but be the slightest bit amused by the situation.
Personally, Kirios had chosen not to dwell on the strange thoughts that seemed to pop into his head every few seconds. Instead he chose to focus on finding the source of this dismay to better lay it to rest. From the women’s words there seemed to be a rogue witch about. Most interesting. He’d dealt with witches before, but nothing this seemingly powerful. The witches he’d dealt with were bit players, often tasked to hex certain important members of his army. Such was often quickly corrected by both his own magic, and the use of extreme force. But this was something far different. A witch that can cast magic so powerful on so many people at once? He’d only heard of such feats in legend. The only person he ever believed could do such a thing was perhaps M, the mysterious wizard whom left him his journal and indirectly tutored the general in his skills.
Eventually the group just about reached the dining hall and stopped at their guide’s sudden mood change. The barbaric man let out some brief words before taking his leave of the group. The message was clear, that the path before them would likely lead to a dangerous situation. Kirios was ready for battle just about any time, even if he was ill-clothed for it. It was his duty to be ready to fight at all times, no matter the circumstance. Even if he wore no armor and held no blade, a pair of unbreakable chains were ready to spawn from his arms at a moment’s notice; his soldiers had seen just how creative and brutal he could be with something so simple as a chain. It was one of many reasons he was known to his enemies as the Golden Demon of Justice.
He was about to nod in agreement with Corrine before she was interrupted mid-sentence by the sudden appearance of a man rather bathed in blood. Kirios’s eyes narrowed as he listened to the bloodied man’s words intently. Odd that the Avaricians had chosen to display such gore so openly; and yet it was not even one of its true rulers, but the child ruler. Very strange indeed that it would be the heir that deals in the execution of the deposed party’s own, but it was not his kingdom to say what was allowed and what wasn’t. All he could do was voice his displeasure at such heinous acts, but even then he could not really make any complaints against those who would destroy the previous regime.
Corrine began speaking once more, and eventually came to address him. ”I assure you I’ve nothing more important to attend to,” he responded with a nod. He assumed she meant he would need to tend to his own kingdom’s resident royals, in which case his position was doubly reinforced. ”You’ll forgive me if I have little patience for the spoiled royals of my kingdom. Warfare, chaos, anarchy, and genocide I can deal with; the young princes’ mouths I have utterly no stomach for.” Either way he’d much rather spend time with a woman as lovely as Corrine any day. He followed as she led the way.
After a minute or so he spoke. ”Milady, do you mind if we take a moment to pass by my quarters for a moment?” Before she could say anything he rose his hand as if proclaiming his innocence. ”I merely want to put away my clothes, since they are of no use to me now.” He motioned toward the breeches and shirt that rest over his shoulder. ”Along the way I should like to change as well. Something tells me the day’s excitement is not over yet, and if I absolutely must address my kingdom’s royals it would be inappropriate to do so in common attire.” He shrugged. ”In either case I’d like to be in my armor, if only so my helm can mask the utter boredom when I must face my princes.”
The Wrathian decided to go with Kirios’s request and, after a bit of walking, made it to his room. He stepped in with no delay, excusing himself for a moment but not making any effort to stop the girl if she wished to follow. Fortunately for him, the servants managed to bring up the trunk where he kept his more precious belongings in his absence. He quickly opened the trunk and moved his hands through it, dressing himself rather quickly in the uniform as well as the various pieces of armor that went over it, and finally the cape that attached to his pauldrons. He chose to keep his helmet off, holding it under his now plated right arm. The armor itself was a slight brassy hue, with a rather demonic look to it(much of the source of his nickname on the battlefield). The plates were rather ornate, with intricate designs littered throughout the suit, the helm itself masking much of the face and horned so as to encourage the rumors that the dreaded general was indeed something other than human. The sword at his waist was purely ceremonial, as he rarely used it other than to shout his commands and rally his men. It was forged by one of the royal blacksmiths specifically for him, with the idea that he appear terrifying to his enemies, but heroic to his loyal soldiers.
In this garb he truly looked the station he was so fond of boasting, particularly around those of the opposite sex. He stepped toward the door and the awaiting woman, already used to the weight of the armor over his body as well the sounds the sabatons and greaves made as he took his steps. His eyes stopped at the woman that awaited him. ”Well then, milady, please lead the way.”  A million miles from home, I'm walking ahead. I'm frozen to the bones, I am...
A soldier on my own, I don't know the way. I'm riding up the heights of shame.
I'm waiting for the call, the hand on the chest. I'm ready for the fight, and fate.
The sound of iron shots is stuck in my head, the thunder of the drums dictates
The rhythm of the falls, the number of deaths, the rising of the horns ahead.
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Posted: Sat Jan 07, 2012 3:18 pm
 Micah knew her sister would be angered by the link that the eldest sought out but she didn't care. She accepted her sisters anger. Maybe one day they'd med their relationship that had been so fragile to begin with.
With her never being around her siblings, being groomed to be the next Queen of Lust. Part of her believed her father placed her in such a position to keep her far from home so that his infidelity would never be discovered. Or that her biological mother was an Angel. She didn't know but either way, her father was a snake and a warped twisted man. The only thing that she was ever happy about when it came to her father was that he took her in. Other than that Micah could careless about him.
The princess continued to move forward, trying her best to find Lorelei. Maybe there was some shred of a bond between the two that she could rely on. Some unseen connection that would lead her to the siren princess--because that would be the only way to find her if Lorelei did not answer her call. Then the call came. Micah felt her footing falter as she stumbled forward, hands blindly going out and grabbing the nearest thing to her (which happened to be a statue) and putting her weight on it to help hold herself up.
She'd been so sure that her sister would not answer. So to realize that she'd been wrong and that her sister's voice now slipped into her mind, caught her off guard completely. The princess's silver pools flickered down the hallway as she listed to her siblings not so friendly tone. She wanted to roll her eyes, but then again the seeds of bitterness had been planted and now it was something she would have to deal with.
Micah shook her head as if her sister could see her. - Tis not a game sister.- She replied, stressing that she was serious and prayed it would do the trick. Had she not been so worried and distressed after seeing the event in the dinning hall she would have came up with something witty or something that would ooze with sarcasm. But now was not the time, especially if she really did want her sister to tell her where she was, or even to med their brittle relationship. Yet when she revealed her location a sigh of relief passed from the silver haired woman's lips.
-Thank you. Please hold tight till I arrive.- She murmured and quickly began to move once more. Pushing off of the statue as she moved. Not running, merely a brisk walk, with her skirts billowing behind her. Micah knew not whether her youngest sister would listen to her and stay where she was till she arrived. But she hoped that she would and if not she would not venture to the dinning hall. She would not wish that sight upon anyone, least of all someone of her family considering that Avarius and Lust had been allies for a time.
Now that relationship had fallen as the former family had. She shook her head trying to push the images from her mind of the body crumbling in to the floor as her life's essence left Dorian. She closed her eyes for a small moment before realizing then that she had no idea where Corrine's room was. The princess cursed silently under her breath as she sought out the link with her sister once more. Only to hear her sister's voice for a second time, letting her know that her party was moving. A string of curses left her lips, un-befitting a well bread woman as she curled her fingers tightly into fists.
The urge to shout at her sister to demand that she stay put overwhelmed her, but she held her tongue and took a deep breath. Calming her anger before she spoke. -All I ask is that you do not enter the dinning hall.- She uttered and then turned around and began to retrace her steps. If that was at all possible. With the ever changing hallways there was no way of knowing if she would reach her destination with ease. She hoped. She was sure that it would be utter chaos by now. Royals in a room filled with blood? Probably not the best area for her to be headed. But the desire to see to her sisters welfare overwhelmed her senses. It was her biggest downfall she knew.
Well that and her inability to distinguish between love and lust. Her life was filled with so much darkness that at times she couldn’t believe that she was part angel. Micah sighed heavily as she moved quickly through the halls soon finding her way back to the main hall in front of the dinning hall.
She bit her lip and halted. Her pools taking in her sister and the group there. Around her sister were three males (Dante, Sasha and Ryan). One was spattered with blood and she was sure came from inside the hall, obviously by his condition very much rattled by what had happened. She bit her lower lip and looked to the others. Unsure of what to do, the silver haired princess moved closer. Remaining silent, completely unsure of what to say. What does one say in a moment like this? Her hand extends to her sister, placing it upon her shoulder. “Lorelei…” She trails off her tongue feel like leather as she lets her hand fall to her side. There was nothing she could say. To any of them.
ooc// sorry not the best post in the world. sweatdrop
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Posted: Sun Jan 08, 2012 9:02 pm
Location: Vale Luscion Tavern, Kingdom of Envy
The tavern was filled with a large amount of guests, all either happily drunk or chatting amongst themselves. The air was thick with an unmistakable scent of ale and musk fresh off the backs of the sweaty patrons. Nothing too different from another day in the tavern, at least not immediately noticeable.
7 men in ragged brown cloaks entered the tavern, all eerily silent as they made their way to the bar. "Looking for something?" asked the bartender, lending a curious eye to the cloaked individuals. One of them stepped forward and brought out a parchment of paper, with a word written on it. The bartender's eyes narrowed, understanding the message. "Where is he?" one of the other cloaked men gruffly asked, his impatience evident in his voice. The bartender gestured to a door. "Knock six times." the bartender said simply, before attending to another customer quickly.
The cloaked men followed the instructions given by the bartender and proceeded to the indicated door, knocking six times in rapid succession. The door promptly opened, a raspy voice beckoning the 7 men inside quickly.
Inside the private chamber, the seven men quickly spotted the blue-clad figure of a white-haired elf sitting on a lounge chair, carrying a foreign looking sword in his left hand, a book in his right hand, and a blonde elven woman sitting on his lap who planted soft kisses upon his cheek and cooed lustfully into his ear.
The seven cloaked men stood patiently in an uneven order, a few of them murmuring amongst themselves. One of the cloaked men coughed loudly to get the blue elf's attention. The woman in his lap turned a hazy eye to them, her attention caught slightly by the sudden noise. It did not last long, as she quickly buried her head in the crook of the white haired elf's neck.
"Something I could help you with, gentlemen?" he asked, his eyes still not averting their gaze from his book. One of the cloaked men spoke out. "Have you come to a conclusion, Rigvel? It's been nearly a week since our last encounter."
The now identified assassin's stoic look did not budge, still reading his book. "What do you intend to do once the royal family is dealt with? I can't imagine you'd just allow Envy to go without a ruling party." His voice was bland and questioning, a hint that he was at least slightly interested in the motives of these gathered men.
The appointed leader of the group removed his hood, looking at the woman in the assassin's lap. "Are these matters you wish to discuss in this wench's presence?" he asked Rigvel, a sneer creeping on his face. The woman must not have heard this remark or did not care, as she did not give any indication of reacting to it.
Rigvel, however, pushed the hilt of his sword with his thumb, exposing a bit of the blade from it's scabbard. A dangerous glare met the group leader's eyes, now no longer occupied with the book in Rigvel's hand. "My wife is entitled to hear whatever she wants, and I suggest that you keep your sharp tongue tied or it'll meet my much sharper blade." he spoke venomously, a few of the group members taking a step back at the sudden hostility. The leader lowered his head slightly, acknowledging the assassin's threat. "Of course..." he grudgingly spat out. Rigvel's blade sunk back completely in it's sheath. "Much better."
Rigvel shut his book and tossed it aside, his free arm now snaking around his wife's waist. "Now...to my original question...?" he said, a silver eyebrow rising to provoke an answer out of the men.
The leader was silent for a moment, then spoke. "The war with Patience has been going far too long. Every day that passes, soldiers in the Envian military risk their life for this fruitless war. If our military is really the mightiest in all the land, why has this war not been won already? I know the answer: because the King and Queen have no bloody idea what to do with their power! A threat comes to them and their first act is to send away a few of their children to some daft god's kingdom, while our kingdom still plays these games with the enemy! A righteous King and Queen would end the war quickly and prove our might, not drag out the war!"
A particularly old member of the cloaked group spoke out, a pained wheeze escaping his aged lips. "We had come to the conclusion that if the King and Queen cannot do their jobs of proving the military's might, then they must be disposed of and replaced with a much more competent ruling party. So we sought out an assassin that we deemed skilled enough to help us accomplish this task..."
Rigvel tilted his head to the side, a deadpan expression on his face. "I'm flattered." The leader nodded to the aged member of the group and continued to speak. "When the royal family is knocked off the throne, I'll shall assume the empty throne and lead Envy to a new age of prosperity and power. Satisfied with our reasons?"
The assassin began to chuckle lowly, shaking his head at the group. "Since you're so eager to make this all happen...I guess I'll have to go along with the plan then." he drawled out, earning a murmur of appreciation rise up from the cloaked group of men. Rigvel held up a finger to silence them. "On one condition though. I demand that you do not pay me with money." The leader furrowed his brow in confusion. "Then what would you like to be payed with?"
A malicious smile crept onto the assassin's face, his wife donning one as well. "Pay me...with the throne. I'll become the new king of Envy." The leader leapt up with anger, appalled with the proposition. The rest of his group joined in suit with disapproving shouts. "Are you mad?! Why would I agr-"
Rigvel drew his blade suddenly, pointing it at the leader's throat. Silence fell. "I don't care what you have planned for this kingdom as king: the idea of replacing the royal family is something that I understand is far too delicate to leave in the hands of a few mad theorists. I have listened to your plan before, and in the days you left me to ponder your little proposal, I came to realize that you had left far too many errors in your little scheme. However, the result was certainly promising. Replacing the King and lead Envy into a new age? It's far too good of a outcome to ignore."
Rigvel lowered his blade to the ground, it's tip gently rapping against the wooden floor. "So I took your plan, modified it to perfection, and propose a new deal to you. Instead of some disillusioned political theorist that can hardly grasp the gravity of his situation, allow me and my wife to rule over Envy. This may come as a surprise to you, but my lovely little Amethyst-" he snuggled closer to his wife at this point, who giggled at his touch. "-she's quite the schemer herself, you see. She used to be a noble of Envy, that she did. In fact, she helped me modify your plan, assuring that no mistakes would be made over a detail missed, as well as earning the following of quite a few people that are willing to help us already."
"Of course, it would be nice if you seven could help out with our new plan, seeing how it was originally yours. So, I extend an invitation to you. Join us, and we could put you up for some royal duties when the throne is ours. What do you say?" he concluded his plans with a tilt of his head, his wife's giggle once again filling the room.
The cloaked group murmured amongst themselves, in disbelief of the proposal brought forth. Rigvel had twisted their own plan and made it to something to fit his own agenda, then had the audacity to ask them to join him. Their leader was the only one to form a response, who took a deep breath.
"You...and your wife..." he spat murderously, Rigvel's eyebrows rising in amusement. "...can go
Rigvel shook his head and sighed, nudging his wife off him. "Excuse me dear, I have vermin to exterminate." he said aloud, to which the group halted immediately. The sound of a drawn blade sent shivers up their spines. "I apologize if I get blood on your dress, dear."
Approximately 2 minutes later, directly outside Vale Luscion Tavern
"Well, that's seven less people we have to worry about. And with them out of them way, we can finally make some progress."
Rigvel embraced his wife, planting a loving kiss on her forehead. "I'll head around the kingdom and gather as many followers as I can." Amethyst cooed to him, melting in his arms. "And I'll find this 'Veritas' and take care of the Envy Children held there. Once that's done, I'll come back finish the rest of the royal family off." The left each other's embrace, shared one last kiss together, and left in opposite directions with words of caution to each other.
Rigvel grinned as he disappeared into the night, searching for the whereabouts of Kingdom Veritas and the Envy Children. "Soon the royal family will fall at my blade, their power shall be mine. And then...a new age of Envy."
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