NationStates Jolt Archive

The imperial family of the Resurgent Dream is throwing a grand ball to mark the coming of age of Her Imperial Majesty's oldest daughter, Aiwyn ni Gwydion. Princess Aiwyn is expected to choose a husband, or have one choosen by her mother at this ball. Nobility and royalty from all nations are cordially invited.

Lord William Helmb III arrived at the ball, accompanied by his mother, Lady Melinda, and his father, Lord William Helmb Jr.

Emperor Roland XIV entered the ball and couldn't hide that he was impressed. Everything was perfect. He had wondered if all his preparation had been for nothing. He carried himself quickly through the doors on black boots like mirrors and looked around, smoothing out his snowy white military uniform and looking forward to a good evening.

*A letter was sent to the goverment, with a flourishing and neat script*

To whom it may concern,

Although it is highly rare that I should concern myself with such events, this is a rare occasion where I wish to honor all involved. If you do not know who I am, please allow me to introduce myself. I am Kain Shentavo, a recently appointed ruler of Velmora. I would wish to attend if I might be able to, but I do not know your nation's policy upon my kind. I would ask that you be open minded, just the the same way that I can appreciate your concern. I am a vampire, and a strange one at that. My flesh is green and leathery, and my appearance can be slightly alarming to those not accustomed to it. If you decline due to safety reasons, I understand completely. Not many nations can trust my kind.

But I would wish to attend if I could, only as an individual who brings his goodwill to your nation and Aiwyn ni Gwydion, and to your health I do wish great things. I would simply wish to say and prove my good intentions in person.

Awaiting your reply,


Kain Shentavo

Prince Walter D. Anderson entered the ballroom with a grim expression on his face. He had never liked royal engagements much. He was dressed simpily, in an almost all-black outfit complete with boots, overcoat, and circular glasses. He wore white gloves to contrast the black. His chin was covered by a thin beard, and he stood at about 6 feet tall. he was about 33 years old.

A Bayonet-Sword hung at each side of his waist, and a Katana was strapped to his back. He never went anywhere unarmed.

The prince, although he would not have admitted it, was slightly eager to see Princess Aiwyn and wondered when she would appear.

The ballroom is splendidly decorated for the occassion, with red, gold, and green bunting, crystal bowls, and the most elegant music. The notables of the Resurgent Dream move about the room, all of the nation's many races or kiths are represented, fey as well as the humans who make up the bulk of the population. The attention of the entering party, as in any room anywhere, can't help but focus on the noble sidhe. Looking largely like elves, the slender men and women are tall and superhumanly beautiful, seeming to literally shine with regal beauty. Elegantly pointed ears rise from their soft, flowing hair. The finery they wear represents all the noble Houses of Resurgent Dream: the red, gold, and green of Gwydion ad Leanhaun; the black, red, and gold of Dougal; the red and silver of Fiona; the black and silver of Eiluned and Ailil; the black, gold, red, and purple of Balor and even the lesser known colors of many minor houses. Princess Aiwyn is, as of yet, nowhere to be seen. A blonde sidhe in a low-cut, gossamer gown of black with silver lining gravitates towards the newcomers. Kain Shentavo is notified that he may come.

Kain entered rather humbly, wearing no jewelery of any kind, or noble robes or cloth. He wore his formal dress, a pure white suit which was custom made for him. He had a crimson tie which seemed like a bloodstain in the middle of his large chest. Upon where his heart was, a small symbol resided. A heart with a sword in...the heart was bleeding slightly in the symbol. It was the clan symbol of the Shentavos.

He walked in, his green flesh attracting attention as it always did. He knew that it would, as did his fangs. But he simply smilied slightly when they did, in a kind of a warm smile. Kain did not do well in these events, but he supposed that if he was to become a good ruler of his new people, he should at least try harder to socialise.

The vampire had no weapons on him, only his hands and arcane abilities. His hands where now cloven three talons, two talons replacing the fingers, and one to the thumb. It made certain actions more difficult, but Kain overcame them with ingenity and magic. Writing he had overcome with a pen that he had created which wouldn't be crushed when he held it. However, he did never figure out how to play the piano again...something he always did enjoy doing as a mortal.

Kain had green leathery skin, and a white-silver hair which was tied at the back. It shone in the lights wonderfullly, and was full of life. His eyes were brown, and seemed rather serious and full of history.

"Don't worry, I am hardly a suitor for the princess." Kain said rather light-heartedly to Walter who was standing beside him. The blonde who was approaching was about to speak to the two of them.

http://lair.echidnoyle.org/lok/images/Kainopening.jpg

(OOC Him in different clothes. Bearing in mind Kain has just walked up very quietly, and said that. Your character I am sure was not expecting a vampire :) )

When the large man saw the vampire walk in, he knew he was in the right place. His current employers wanted him to extract every piece of information he could from Kain Shentavo, before he put him down like the blood-sucking leech he was. Darius Steele was up to the task, having dealt with vampires and their ilk on a regular basis. His company, Heros for Hire, was primarily an executive security firm, providing services to the rich and famous. A sideline of his business, one that was not advertised, involved Black Ops operations against those who would seek to disturb the fragile peace that had grown throughout the known universe.

His commlink flared in his ear, and Steele listened closely.

"Sir, the target is on site...unarmed, but still dangerous as hell."

"Tell me something I don't know, Rafe" replied Steele, watching the vampire from the corner of his eye."What I need to know is did he come alone?"

"Sir, our scans indicate that he is solo. You gonna take him out now?"

"Patience Rafe, patience. This is a party, not an alley. I'll take him down when the moment presents itself. Lemme talk to the Doc..." Steele waited as the commlink was switched to sick bay.

"Yes, Darius? I'm very busy you know..." came the voice of Dr. Wendell Roquer, known (behind his back) as 'Doc Rock'.

"Doc, I just want to make sure I don't get caught with my pants down...are you sure the toxin works against ALL vampires? This schlub doesn't look like any vamp I've ever seen before..."

"We have tested the virus on a dozen specimens, all with positive results. Direct injection will induce paralysis in seconds." replied the Doc.

"Seconds huh?", stated Steele, "That's all the time a vamp needs to snap my neck."

"Then make sure he is occupied when you inject him...you still haven't signed my paycheque for this week..."

"Write an angry letter to someone who cares, Doc." said Steele, terminating the connection.

At that moment, Darius felt the eyes of the vampire upon him. They felt hungry. He returned the stare, and smiled in a noncommittal way.

Thanks for the invite old boy, but dates clash unfortunately! Got this 'do' at the Dorchester with the local rowing club. Can't miss it as old Phil will be there, with Lizzy of course, and I want to collar him to lend me his poney and carriage, whatever he calls the darn thing. Sorry and all that, give the bride a big smacker for me!

Charles

Walter jumped slightly as he heard Kain speak. They looked like polar opposites, him in his jet black outfit, and kain with his green skin and white suit. He knew the name Kain from somewhere, he just couldnt place it.....

"I myself do not consider myself a very good suitor either, but let us just wait and see....."

A large convoy pulled up to the Imperial Palace of "The Resurgent Dream",
Reluctantly a young man stepped out, this man was Prince Yossarian Bhaton, of wwa.
The prince was a young man, only aged 21, he had very short black hair, slightly spiked, and a short stubble beard around his face. Yossarian was a good looking man, he was around 6ft tall and had dark green eyes. He wore a very expensive black suit, white shirt and black tie, this reflected his mysteriousness.
The prince reluctantly stepped out of the limo, he hated these events, but once again his father made him go to this noble event.
A crowd of armed bodyguards surrounded him, and they quickly marched into the beautiful ballroom, they were late as usual.

"I myself do not consider myself a very good suitor either, but let us just wait and see....."

Kain smiled slightly and said softly to him rather pleasantly, "Well, I am glad that you are more open minded than some, some people are just rude when it comes to my kind. But nevermind me, you enjoy yourself."

Walking away, he looked around at the other guests. Quite a selection of people Kain thought.

How is going? Are there many interesting people? Has she turned up? Tell me all the details Master Kain! The happy and childish voice of D'tok came though mentally to Kain. It was Kain's recently made construct, who was still innocent and infantile. It was refreshing to Kain, and D'tok made him laugh sometimes. Quite the odd family, Kain the serious and more quiet vampire, and D'tok the happy and exuberant construct. Both very strange to the eye of a "normal" being.

I will tell you all about it when I get home D'tok, don't you worry. Kain replied pleasantly, and D'tok said nothing more, knowing better to pester Kain. Kain was very much the parent to D'tok.

Kain walked over to a quiet corner of the room where he placed his back to the wall. He did not like these social events, and wanted to look over the other guests. Also, he fancied a cigar. Although, not the normal kind.

He reached within his pocket for a elegent cigar with the Shentavo symbol upon it. Placing it upon his thin lips, and slowly lighting it with a thought, he inhaled slowly the blood. It was in a gaseous form in his mouth....and slowly evaporated with a very unique and pleasurable taste. Not that Kain needed the blood to sustain himself, not with the bloodstone around his neck and under his shirt, away from view, a gift from his sire, Ravelyn Shentavo.

Noticing the huge group of bodyguards, Kain chuckled slightly to himself. He regarded those who had huge amounts of bodyguards with ridicule. During his mortal years he had never had bodyguards. But he supposed that different nations had different takes on thier rulers. Velmora's rulers where pretty much normal people, they could walk around thier nation without much fuss or danger.

Continuing to smoke slowly on his strange cigar, with no blood smoke coming from it at all, Kain looked at the guests which slowly trickled in.

Holy Prince Leonidas XXII entered, garbed in a crimson military uniform lined with gold fabric on its edges- dressed just like his father always did. He did not share his father's views, but he believed in the first impression, and was determined to make a good one on every person he saw. It was intriguing to him that even national leaders could be so- human. They were ordinary people, and yet some could soar to the stars or reach out and touch any nation anywhere. It was unbelievable how national leaders could relax and just hang around. He realized most of them weren't relaxed, but were as nervous as he was- but still, it was amazing. On the surface, they looked so calm and collected, but he could notice the small things- twitches, tiny beads of sweat, taking deep gulps when they thought nobody was looking. He prided himself on being observative.

Through a miniscule implant in his head, he could hear his most trusted advisor, going over proper etiquette again and again. The advisor was excited as a schoolboy. Leonidas knew that his advisor was twice his age, and he knew that his advisor was usually as cool and collected as all of the national leaders he saw, but he couldn't help being happy that his usually-depressed right hand man was so glad. Leonidas was like a son to the advisor, and a party like this seemed to be the prince's coming of age, though it was a party for the princess's.

Emperor Roland XIV looked around for someone he knew and found no one at first. His mood had changed over the course of the party. The only person he had seen so far that didn't look sinister was a fanged man with green skin. He had thought about talking to the man, who actually appeared to be quite likeable, but knew he would screw it up by saying the wrong thing. Yes, his mood had changed as it always did during parties. At first, he would be reluctant, then filled with surprise, and then he would come once again to the conclusion that politicians comprised the biggest nest of vipers that ever was, and that if vipers knew what they were being compred to, they'd be mad as hell. Happy occasions were always spoiled by masses of secret service agents wandering around and forgetting who they were guarding because all of them were so identical.

Scanning the crowds, he spotted the prince of Mahenmia talking to thin air and strolled quickly over to him, wondering if he had been drinking underage. Did they even have alcohol in Mahenmia?

Darius Steele observed the vampire closely as it...HE...engaged in quiet conversations with the officials around him. Steele was amazed at the grace and quiet power that seemed to emanate from the vampire, and he reminded himself to be very, very careful. Other guests were arriving now, and Steele scanned them all and awaited any intel that Rafe could find on them.

Feeling reckless yet wanting to know his quarry more, Steele walked towards Shentavo as the latter lit a large cigar. Drawing his own hand-rolled cheroot from a slim, silver case, Steele approached the vampire. Looking him in the eye, he smiled:

"Got a light?" he asked, indicating his unlit cigar.

"Be my guest." Kain stated, not even looking at him. He spoke politely, and without malice of any kind.

He extended his palm, and a small flame sprouted in mid air from it. Kain needed no word to summon such a flame, it was a very simple cantrip. After the cigar was lit...Kain put his hands by his side and continued to smoke the cigar.

"May I have the honor of knowing your name, and who you might be in the political world? I am disadvantaged as not to have such an updated record of who is the world these days, my goverment is newly founded, although my rule is hardly new." Kain asked softly and with the same disarming civil tone that he had used before. It was strange. Kain did indeed have a deep voice, but it was strange to hear the demonic appearance vampire speak so...elequently and with such civility.

Kain could have simply read his mind, but he certainly did not want to. It would have been highly and intruding and rude. And also, it would have seemed alarming when Kain knew things that he should not.

The blonde sidhe curtsies graciously to the guest. She doesn't seem that surprised by the vampire. It isn't as though she's human. Just another exotic kith, ultimately no different than a pooka or a troll. She speaks calmly. "Welcome to the Empire. My name is Lady Tatiana. Her Highness should be joining us shortly."

"Thank you, we look forward to it." Kain said politely, and went back to his conversation.

Tatiana arched a slender brow of so faintly at Kain. "Of course." she murmured as she surveyed the crowd, drifting graciously towards Emperor Roland XIV. "I do not believe I have had the honor, my lord."

Steele took a long draw from his cigar, unimpressed by the small magicks that the vampire displayed. He knew that his real power was yet to be revealed, and would be much more than a simple parlor trick. He put his hand out to Shentavo.

"Darius Steele at your service. President of a little backwater planet named "Gawdly", but I guess they sent out invitations to everyone...and I do love a good party."

Steele played the role of innocent fool very well, but his size and manners gave him away as military. Knowing that he could not get caught in an obvious lie, Steele continued on.

"I also have a small security firm you might have heard of...Heroes for Hire?"

The vampire watched him without responding, his eyes giving away nothing. Darius tried another tack.

"Listen, why don't we get out of the doorway and go hang near the bar a bit...I'll buy you a drink while we wait for the main course to arrive..."

Rafes voice burst into Steeles ear."Boss, don't get to close - we're not sure whether Kain's a telepath or not...proximity could trigger a meld."

Steele was aware of this already, and prepared. He had developped strong mental shields while living with the Bator Monks of Vellus, and it would take a true master to get past them. Kain may not get past them, but he WOULD notice them. Nonetheless, he took a small step back and gestured towards the bar.

"Looks like the best seat in the house...shall we?" he asked the vampire.

Prince Leonidas XXII spotted the emperor of Monumenta and went towards him, still speaking to his advisor through the implant. Keeping a firm stride and warmly greeting anyone he noticed, he pressed through the crowds, repeating: "Excuse me, pardon me," several times. Still awestruck by the guest that created flame from his palms, he made his way towards the emperor and shook hands with the family friend.
"Good lord, Roland, did you see what the green-skinned man just did?"

The emperor was beginning to think himself drunk. He had seen magic tricks like that before, but rarely on the spurn of the moment. While not as impressed as the prince he was talking to was, he was still intrigued.
"Yes, he seems to be the focus of a lot of conversations."
Roland XIV heard a low series of hums and gibberish and realized it was an implant. Well, at least the boy wasn't talking to himself.
"So, who's on the other end of the line?" he asked with a small grin, but the boy couldn't hear him. The emperor figured that if he could hear the device as a whisper, then it must be quite loud inside the prince's head. He waited with an interested look, and eventually began softly humming to himself and looking around the party, trying not to appear racist when guests of other species noticed him staring rudely, though unintentionally. I remember when cell phones were like this. At least these implants can't ring at movie theaters... he thought to himself, and waited patiently for the boy to finish listening to the device.

"Alright then. I would shake your hand, but I fear my hands would render yours rather....well, you get the idea." Kain said rather pleasantly. His cloven talons where extremely sharp and menacing, but Kain seemed highly dexterous with them.

He walked behind Steele. Kain, as always, had highly complex mental sheild around himself, although he did have natural defences available. Nothing too major though.

As Kain walked, his taloned feet made no noise at all. He had the same kind of feet as he did hands, so in essance, he could use all four as hands. It came useful in the many combats which he had been in.

Sitting down at the bar, Kain asked for a glass and reached again for his pocket. He pulled out a very small silver hip-flask, and poured a small amount of liquid into the glass. It seemed to have a life of it's own, it swirled around in the delicate glass.

"I am sure they do not cater for my drinking tastes, although I do prefer my own years in comparison to what you can when they do tailor for vampires. This particular....person was over three thousand years old. Wonderful aroma, but highly dangerous if consumed in large amounts, not that anyone could get large amounts of the stuff if they did not have a large wallet....or wide travels into more dangerous realms." Kain said candidly.

"President eh? Hmmm. Enjoying yourself?" Kain asked strangely, it was indeed a very strange question indeed.

"I soon hope to be," replied Steele, noticing the faint, rusty smell of Kain's libation. "3000 years old, you say? I would love to hear the story of how it was acquired..."

Steele knew HOW: the same way vampires ALWAYS got their nourishment - the death of a living soul. He felt a rush of anger fill his head, and for a moment, he almost acted rashly. His chance would come, and he needed to wait.

"If I can be so forward, I can't help but notice how different you are from every other vampire I have met...and in my line of business, I've met a few."

Steele waited as his statement settled in. He was surprised to find out that he was truly interested in the answer, and not just making small talk. This unique creature was fascinating, and Darius had to remind himself why he was here.

Walter arched his eyebrows slightly as Kain lit a small fire with his mind almost without effort. That was a nice trick; Walter decided he might learn it sometime. But, then again, using magic always made him slightly queasy. He did particulary like summoning, however, and was quite good at summoning mind bending creatures.

It was clear that Kain was a powerful person, even by vampire standards. Walter decided that he would stick close to him during th party. This Steele fellow that was talking to Kain, however.......Walter didn't like the look of him. Walter decided to go to the bar and evesdrop a little. He wouldn't buy any drinks; he perferred to stay sober at all times.

"Well I was sired by an angelic vampire, and exposed to high amounts of demonic energies during my times. Such experiances does leave one with certain attributes which can be advantagous but visually shocking. And also, the forced consumption of demonic blood does give a vampire certain attributes over the time. Such days are gone now, and I still drink demonic blood from time to time. It is highly invigorating, and does not affect me in this small amount." Kain said rather normally, as if he was talking about an everyday occourance. He said it smoothly and without delay or hesitation.

"I am quite happy to answer any other questions, please, carry on. I do enjoy people who are blunt and to the point, social avoidance annoys me no end, where people want to ask or say something but cannot speak out. I often shock and startle people when I speak my mind. I suppose it goes with the initial visual impression that I give, don't you think?"

Kain sipped on his drink, and he savoured it all. he closed his eyes when he did, and his movements where slow. His eyelips fluttered slightly as the sensation overtook his body, pure energy buzzing through him. He did not let a drop fall at all, it would be very dangerous if he did.

As Kain spoke with a a soft yet commanding voice, Darius Steele noticed the approach of a dignitary he had seen earlier when he first arrived. He noticed simply because the dignitary was trying hard NOT to be noticed, and was obviously not a covert operations expert. He was also armed to the teeth with bladed weapons, and Steele noticed the familiar curve of a Katana strapped to his back. He smiled slightly when Rafe spoke in his ear.

"We saw you staring Boss, so we got intel on this guy. His name is Prince Walter Anderson of Ravea...and thats all we got. Our system locked up shortly afterwards...we're looking into it." Rafe sounded apologetic.

Steele paused, well aware that with the ships system offline, he was now deaf, dumb and blind. He decided to watch the newcomer carefully. He returned his gaze to Kain.

"I appreciate your honesty, Mr.Shentavo...much like you, I prefer to "cut to the chase" so to speak." Steele raised his glass to the vampire.

"A toast then: to honesty, and to new friends!" Steele drained his glass, and motioned to the bartender for a refill. He saw that Prince Anderson had moved close enough to overhear their conversation.

"In the spirit of honesty, let me ask you this: are you interested in winning the hand of Princess Aiwyn?"

Kain followed the toast and sipped again on his drink.

On his question on if he was a suitor, Kain laughed out loud darkly and softly.

"By the gods no....my vampiric state would make it hard for her to become attracted to me, and I do not wish to marry. I have had my love, and she has left this world now. And come to think of it...I met her under similar circumstances....."

Kain voice now softened in memory. He obviously remembered it well and spoke of her well and in quiet rememberance, "Her name was Daniella, a human. I was a vampire at the time, much as you see me now. I granted her freedom. I showed her the door, she opened it. But the rest of that story is painful and complex." Kain said quietly and drank the rest of his drink.

"What about you?" he asked in reply, turning to look at him. It was noticable that his eyes where highly unique, his brown spheres seemed to suck one into thier ocean contents.

Steele was strangely touched by the vampires honesty, and for a moment he could see a glimpse of the man within the monster...but only for a moment. He needed to remind himself why he was here, and that the creature in front of him was his quarry, not something to pity.

Still, when Kain mouthed the name 'Daniella", Steele could hear respect and honor in his tone...and regret. The big security man sipped his drink, and took a long draw from his cigar. Steele loved his hand-rolled cheroots, and cigars in general, and was considering asking Shentavo about the big stogie he was enjoying earlier...but that was small talk: Kain had asked a BIG question.

"Well, she IS a marvelous young woman, and easy on the eye. I'm not even sure what "winning her hand" entails...a contest of sorts? Perhaps a battle to the death?? Wooing her in 5 minutes???" Steele was smiling now. "I guess I wouldnt be here if I wasn't somewhat intrigued, but I think I'll wait before fully committing myself."

Steele had seen the opening earlier, and decided to press his luck.

"I have to ask you...you claim no interest in the Princess, yet you came here nonetheless. Do you have other business with the Kingdom or did you just come looking for a free meal??" Darius said the last with a friendly smile, the innocence of his humor concealing the truth of his words.

Prince Leonidas XXII looked up in shock. His friend, now restless, took notice quickly. The information that the prince had received blew his mind. He was an observant man, but he didn't see everything. He went over what he had heard. Someone at your party could be an assassin. He didn't know how his private team had figured it out. He didn't care at the time being. He began in a loud tone and then dulled it to a whisper when he remembered he was in a large crowd.
"What are you talking about? Who is it and who's the target?"
He felt his suspicions drawn to the vampire and mentally scolded himself for doing so. But he knew it wasn't racist. It was human. It was natural. And if it was natural, there was a reason. There was a lot of evolution going into him that told him a fanged bloodsucker needed to be met with a healthy degree of suspicion. And yet, the green-skinned humanoid at the bar didn't seem evil, in fact he was a bit less shifty than most of the other people in the party. There was something wrong with him being an assassin. Immediately, suspicion fell on the armed man in black. A katana, a dark suit? He drew attention, and it was obvious that he was dangerous. Sure, he might just have been seeking attention. Or it might be genuine, and what then? What if that's who he really is? What if he's a killer? Who is he trying to kill? It all came and went in a split second. Suspicions flooded his mind and then vanished completely.
His question was answered through a little static. He winced. Static was only irritating on normal communicators. Static in a person's brain was a thousand migraines until it left. At least the reception was good, though...
"It's just a suspicion. Look over the people at the bar."
So it is one of them. Which one, though? Which one of them is it?
"You know the two most suspicious ones?"
"Yeah?"
"Disregard them. They might be threats, but the man speaking to the vampire is the one you're looking for. We think that the vampire and the man in black may be here together, we don't know, but the man in black is looking out for him. The man talking to the vampire, though? Take a look at his face. Our security advisors say that it's a mental shield. Something a sect of monks used to practice. None of our assassins practiced it themselves, but they've heard stories. Word gets around, you know how things are-"
"Don't stray, stay focused. I need to know more."
"Yes, lord prince. We have psychoanalysts here that can spot a murderer by the degree to which he flares his nostrils during interrogation- polygraphs are useless with their help. They've seen this guy. He's trying damn hard not to be read. But they say they noticed him for a moment trying to resist something else. They said they saw indications of pity, followed by forced coldness. He's numbing himself. He's trying not to sympathize with his victim. We've theorized several places in his suit where he could be hiding a small weapon, and lipreaders here can make out a bit of what he's saying. He's trying to extract information from the vampire. It might just be innocent questions, but it might be subtle interrogation. One way or another, he's looking around. He's analyzing things. He's looking for threats, and he's looking for problems- dear God, no, don't duck away from him Leo, be normal, he'll see you- he noticed the the man with the katana. We saw it, too- it would take a fairly experienced covert operative to notice someone like that. The man in black is trying not to be noticed, and we think he's trying to eavesdrop, but we're not sure."
Prince Leonidas was growing more and more nervous by the second. His advisors were security freaks. They chatted about governments covering up alien landings. They randomly chose strangers on the street fo follow and see if they were murderers. They were conspiracy freaks, and they were paranoid. Of course, that was why they were security advisors. They had probably seen hundreds of poisons in the wine. They were probably murmuring to each other about how the overweight queen in the golden dress was probably concealing new strains of anthrax. But they were still professionals. The assassins were only slightly paranoid. The fact that they should actually point someone out made Leonidas suspect the man himself. But the evidence was flimsy. No matter how well-presented it was, no matter who assembled it, it wasn't damning stuff. It was just vague suspicion. The man was worth keeping an eye on, but that was probably it. Leonidas regained his composure and told his advisors to calm down, despite their protests, and then turned to the emperor and apologized.

OOC: Monumenta, did you mean to ignore Lady Tatiana or just miss the post?

Kain turned to Prince Leonidas XXII, and smiled for some reason. It was a small smile, but a smile which meant so much. The vampire seemed to know something they both knew...or did he? He tried to figure out if Kain knew about the assassin...but if Kain knew about the assassin, why the hell was he still remaining so calm?

Kain carried on as normal it seemed, until Steele asked that question. That made Kain pause for a moment. He turned his head, with infinate slowness it seemed, to looked at Steele. Thier eyes stared at one another, not in harshness or in challenge, Kain just looked at Steele.

Steele would have thought if Kain had found him out...a small smile came from Kain, the same polite smile as he had done before. It was eerie....but Kain reached for his neck, and pulled on a chain which was hanging around his neck. It was a silver chain, and as Kain pulled on it to reveal what was on the end of it....he revealed it.

A bloodstone. An extremely rare arcane jewel.

"Do you know what this is? This is a bloodstone......a final gift.....from my mentor and sire. It sustains me always, I have no need for blood anymore. I still feel much pleasure when I do feed of course, but now I have no need to prey on the innocent. Not that I ever did, not that vampire hunters listen. They continuously hunt me everywhere, and I have have dealt with countless numbers of those prejudiced humans just as I have demons. I have been captured by both....those where dark days. I hate the demons....but I do not hate the vampire hunters." Kain spoke softly, in slight pity of the situation. A resigned remorse about the situation. He looked at the bar again, as he used his right hand to etch a rune into the bar absent mindedly.

I can understand thier hating, because, I was human. I understand the passion of hatred, because I have felt it, and I still do to one individual. But.....I...try to forgive...what that....bastard did." Kain said, with obvious difficulty. His voice darkened and Kain had no humor about that subject it was evident. He slipped the ancient stone under his shirt again.

Kain looked at Steele again and spoke in a tutorly and wise way, a way which had taught and broken his adverseries though words.

"Understand that not all vampires are beasts, and not all humans are humane. Such I have learned and learned, and learned. Prejudice can cost highly, no matter who you are dealing with. Vampire, human, angel, demon, god. *Kain chuckled slightly as he mentioned god, in rememberance of that awful day*. It doesn't matter who it is, you have to judge everyone for themselves."

Kain remained silent on that note, and his rune sprang into life. It created a small flower, a rose which flowered into being. Kain looked at it and smiled at it, appreciating it's beauty. He now appreciated all beauty, seeing as what that bastard took away...

Once again, Steele was taken aback by the force of emotion in the vampire's words. Darius considered himself an expert at reading people, and all his mental alarms were now going off...could this be true? This blood-sucker no longer kills innocents, and in fact, claims to have NEVER killed one? Steele checked his mental blocks, and saw that Kain had not atempted to break them.

Steele gazed at the bloodstone, the deep red drawing him in. He watched as Kain created a flower of utmost beauty from thin air. He felt the sadness in Kains voice, and Steele made a decision. Standing up, he excused himself from the companionship of Kain, claiming a need to visit the facilities and relieve himself.

The moment he had stepped around a large column and away from prying eyes, Steele activated his commlink.

"Rafe, special request: I need you to find out where this contract came from, and why...I have a strange feeling that we may be chasing a clean target."

"Clean? Boss, yer losing it! He's a fraggin' VAMPIRE for chrissakes..." Rafe replied, obviously exasperated.

"Well, trust me on this...this whole deal doesn't feel right. Get me some answers boyo, and fast."

"Yes Sir," said Rafe, "oh, and one other thing: we have been picking up some sort of narrow-band alphawave transmission....someone close to you is in contact with an outside source. They have great scramblers, because I can't trace the receiver...should I try jamming?"

Steele thought for a moment. "No, don't do anything except monitor for now...do you know what they are talking about?"

"No Sir, not as yet...we're just picking up random chatter, and Berry is doing his magic even as we speak." Berry was the computer that was dedicated to code-breaking. "I'll let you know when we get something."

With a grunt, Steele cut the connection. Looking around, he saw more dignitaries arriving, yet no sign of the Princess herself. He began walking towards where he had left Shentavo, conflicting thoughts and emotions running through his head. Assuming for an instant that Kain was NOT the evil monster that he was being paid to terminate caused Steele to ask himself WHY someone would want the vampire dead? Simply because he was a vampire?? Or was there some other plot afoot, one where Steele was simply a pawn? This angered him suddenly.

Even pawns can achieve a check-mate.

OOC: Monumenta, did you mean to ignore Lady Tatiana or just miss the post?

OOC: Pardon me there, I didn't see. I might have to bend the chronology on things a little bit here.

Emperor Roland XIV was too worried by his friend's strange talk to notice the woman that had approached gracefully to his side. He noticed her just as his friend ceased to speak and murmured apology. He assured the prince it was nothing, but needed to know what his friend had heard.
Of course, Lady Tatiana didn't tap on his shoulder, she was much too polite for that, but she was persistent enough to catch his eye. Maybe more than that caught his eye, but if that was the case, he disregarded it. Whenever other politicians are around, showing something like that would be like luring a snake to your jugular. And besides, he was above that now. He had someone. Not a wife yet, but someone important enough not to be thinking about other people. Particularly other people he met in important places such as this.
"Deepest apologies, my lady, and the honor is all mine," he said, performing a bow that instructors had trained him long ago to use in times of apology and greeting. Behind him, he could hear murmurs of conversation: "...a bloodstone... a final gift from my mentor and sire..."

The suspect assassin said something about having to use the facilities, but the prince of Mahenmia was no longer thinking about him. The stone had him spellbound. Kain spoke words in a voice that could be heard and not heard, a voice that went beyond Leonidas' range of senses. As he stared into the center of the gem, he understood perfectly every word that came from Kain's mouth. He was not like the vampires Leonidas had known in fairy tales and novels. He was not the demonized enemy of mankind Leonidas had thought vampires were. Leonidas couldn't help wondering if "demonized" was racist, but it was beside the point. If a being that enjoyed drinking blood could understand the value of human life, the importance of tolerance, why should it be difficult for humans? He knew that there were some in his own nation that would have tried to kill the vampire a long time ago. They would have failed, but the fact that they would try- that he knew they would try- made him feel horrible. This was not a monster. This was a man. This was more a man than many men had been. And suddenly, curiousity overcame the strange remorse.
"How did you become this way? What... what happened to you?"
He had many questions he was afraid to ask, but, he knew that, even should he choose to ask them, he would never get enough answers.

Tatiana smiles, giving the Emperor a full curtsey and holding it for a three count. "Your Imperial Majesty, you hardly need to bow to a humble Baroness such as myself."

"How did you become this way? What... what happened to you?"He had many questions he was afraid to ask, but, he knew that, even should he choose to ask them, he would never get enough answers.

"That story is elaborate and would require a few hours. And it is a story which I would prefer not to get into right now. Trust me, my history is highly complex and one which is very very long." Kain said simply.

Steele returned the way he left, stopping only to say hello to an old friend. While he was exchanging pleasantries, he noticed that Kain had found a new friend at the bar. Excusing himself, Steele stepped into a small alcove and opened communications with his ship.

"Rafe, I'm disappointed: where's my sitrep on the schlub sitting with my target?"

"Sorry Boss, but the main systems are still down. Secondary's are holding, but I still can't access the mainframe..." Rafe's frustration was evident in his voice. "Right now, I can barely keep the commlink up...so no visuals, scans or exo-juice...Boss, yer really on yer own."

"What else is new..." Steele cut the contact, and looked towards the bar. Kain did not seem to be very interested by the newcomer, but he decided not to interupt their conversation just yet. A lovely serving-girl walked by, and Steele spent the next few minutes munching canapes, flirting outrageously and keeping a wary eye on the creature that he had come here to kill.

Any sidhe is hard to miss. Their race is renowned for its literally superhuman beauty, grace, and leadership skills. But far beyond the normal beauty of her species, the crown princess of the Resurgent Dream is impossible not to notice. She is not announced by any herald. She doesn't need to be. Her very seems to glow with the radiant light of nobility. Her figure is a perfect hour glass, emphasized by the cut and line of her verdent gown with an imperial cut. Her skirt is split, revealing underskirts of gold, purple, and white. Her gown is made of soft gossamer, the cloth seeming as light as air. A diamond necklace hangs around her elegant neck, resting on her supple bussom. Hair like a blazing fire blows gently though there is no breeze, revealing finely tapered pointed ears as green eyes move quietly around the crowd, lingering almost intimately on each honored guest in turn. Her tiny, delicate lips of deep crimson break into a smile as warm as the summer sun, heartmelting. The room fills with the smell of fresh spring flowers upon her entrance. Princess Aiwyn arrives.

Walter pausd from taking in anything Kain said. He could feel a massive, and very beautiful aura enter the room. He turned and layed his eyes on Aiwyn for the first time. Even Walter, a seasoned bachloer, had never seen anything as remotely amazing as the princess. Walter felt her eyes scan over him, the green orbs pierceing his very soul. Then, Walter shook out of it. He had seemingly forgotten himself for a moment.

As Steele slipped his personal card to the lovely serving-girl, he noticed many heads, mostly male, turning towards the entrance. The creature that stood there was radiant, beyond beauty, defying description. He called her creature, simply because she was more than a beautiful woman...and because she was very obviously not human. Darius had seen Elves before, in fact his navigator Tanis had Elfling blood herself...but none like the one who glided into the ballroom as if she was Queen of this Realm. One day, she would be.

So THIS was Princess Aiwyn, thought Steele as he picked his jaw off the floor, and walked back towards the bar. Kain had yet to notice the arrival of the stunning Elf, and Darius was curious as to what his reaction would be. He may not be here to win her hand, but the vampire may have a change of heart upon viewing her. He approached Shentavo, physically imposing himself between the vampire and the man he had been speaking with earlier, obviously a dignitary of some sort. The man was busy staring at the Princess, and did not notice Steeles arrival.

Darius smiled at Kain. "You look a little down in the dumps, my new friend...perhaps THAT will bring your smile back?" Steele pointed in the direction of the Princess, and awaited Kain's reaction.

Kain turned to view the princess. She was indeed, beautiful. A beauty which was innocent and pure. Kain smiled slightly, but was far from spell-bound.

"Well, she certainly is pleasing to the eye, but hardly my...type, if that is the term that people use around here. Aren't you going to speak to her? Isn't that your purpose here?" Kain said quietly.

(OOC I will be out for around three days on a camping trip, so Kain will be by the bar thinking abut things for a while.)

"Perhaps I should," mused Steele, "though I was truly enjoying our conversation. Perhaps we can continue at a later time?"

With that, Steele excused himself from Shentavo, stepping on the foot of the dignitary who had been speaking with the vampire.

"My apologies..." smiled Steele, not feeling particularly apologetic. He strode confidently towards the glowing Princess.

Now look here, we've already been to her wedding once already! How many weddings are normally required in her custom? I believe there's a racket in wedding presents going-on here, and I am going to find-out about what's goin-on! Things are rotten in the house of Denmark!

As he strode towards the Princess, Darius stopped suddenly, his ear-comm crackling to life.

"Sir...we found the problem: some sort of virus has been shoved into our datastream...one we've never seen before. We've shunted most of the active files to the secondary's though, so we're back at full power."

Steele considered this for a moment: a virus? How?? His firewalls and security were top-notch...Rafe continued on.

"Sir, about the strange comm signal we were picking up before. Boss, it's Prince Leonidas...the schlub who's foot you just stepped on. Heheh, good work!" Steele could hear Rafe and the crew chuckling.

"I'm glad you guys are being entertained...who is he talking to, and about what?"

Rafe paused before replying. "Sir, I'm not sure who, but they seem pretty sharp...and they know why yer there...sorta..."

"Sorta? Explain."

"Ummm...well, they think that yer there to kill someone...they just don't know WHO."

"Jam 'em: NOW." Steele was seething. This could really put a crimp in his plans. He decided that he and Leonidas would need to have a little talk.

Barely noticed, as the Princess makes her entrance, a petite, buxom woman with an hourglass figure, emerald green eyes and flame red hair that cascades down her back ending only an inch above the ground enters the room. She is wearing a powder blue gown that she tugs at periodically as though unused to it. Long, white satin gloves end just below her elbows and her hair glitters with strings of diamonds that are interwoven through the flaming red strands. The most remarkable thing is a large jade amulet bordered in platinum resembling a an oakleaf and glittered in diamond dust so as to appear silver. In the center of the leaf is a ball of flame made of rubies, in which is a fist made of diamonds and black pearls. Below the fireball on the the leaf is the word DEFENDERS. She carries a staff of jet black wood on top of which is a claw clutching a huge diamond. Her skin is unusually pale and she looks very young by human standards, though the arched eyebrows give away her elven heritage.
When she enters the room her eyes scan the assembled guests, lingering a moment on Shentavo, her eyes narrowing, before passing on and resting for several seconds on the Princess and Tatiana. After a moment she scans the room again, looks behind her and then moves to a corner, placing her back to the wall and glancing about at all the entrances and exits. Seeming content with her postion she watches the affair. As she watches she smiles and politely refuses food and drink from the passing servants.

He saw the opening, so he made his move.

Steele moved quickly into a gap in the reception line, smiling politely to the diplomat behind him, who decided it was in his best interests to not object to the large man cutting in front of him. Seeing the Princess at close range confirmed what Darius had seen from far: Aiwyn was an extrordinary creature.

Waiting to greet the Princess, Steele scanned the room. A flash of bright color caught his eye, and Steele saw a beautiful red-haired woman of Elvish lineage, standing in a corner. Her manner was suspicious to the experienced security man...why was such a well-bred woman skulking in a dark corner? As Steele watched her, Rafe's voice crackled in his ear.

"Yum, yum, yum Boss! Another hottie!! Man, its nights like this that I love my work..." Steele had no choice but to let his young lieutenant ramble, because there were too many party-goers around for him to reply.

"Sir, no positive ID on this cutie yet, but we're running her through the main right now...and Tanis said that the amulet she's wearing looks familiar to her. We'll check that out too." Tanis was Steele's navigator, friend and sometime lover. She was also of Elvish descent, so Steele knew that the amulet the redhead wore was an important clue.

Steele was next in line to greet Aiwyn. He waited patiently as the rotund and sweaty diplomat ahead of him tried to impress the Princess.

Why are we here?

Kain was kind of startled by the voice which spoke mentally in his ears, although it was a familiar one. A female voice of the cloak he wore. It was underneth his suit, due to it's invaluable nature. A magical entity which bore intellegence and loyality.

Because I fancied some company, and I need some interest.

Getting up from the bar with a silent grace which Kain held around his well honed and unique character, he walked around the room slowly, looking around. He was absorbing the sights like a fine wine, sampling and savouring them. A smile of two new found friends, a trick of the light of a chandalere, a chuckle at a well placed joke, or the trickling of wine upon glistening glasses.

Your new child is progressing well I see.

Is that what he is in your perception? My child?

Is that not what you consider him Kain? You forget my abilties of empathy and perception.

Kain did not reply, but left the question remain for the moment.

He looked at the new arrival, he looked from behind. She had DEFENDERS on her gloves....he wondered what it meant.

"Excuse me, but I could not help to wonder why the word "defenders" is upon your gloves. Care to enlighten me?" Kain said softly and pleasantly.

A 1969 Impala with a dazzling silver paint job rolled into the parking lot, its owner tossing the keyes to the valet...

"Careful with it... That thing's worth more than J-Lo's ass..."

The owner of the decked out pimp-sled was Jackson Bray, mercenary & self-styled playboy. Jack stood at about 6'0", with light skin, and weighed around 195 lbs. He was solidly built, his silk t-shirt showcased a set of toned abdominals. As usual, he was clad in an expensive black leather trenchcoat lined with crimson silk. A pair of designer black cargo pants & a pair of black & white Lugz-brand boots completed the ensamble.

The outline of a Heckler & Koch USP was visible at the small of his back...

A platinum chain with an equally flashy letter 'J' hung around his neck...

(To Shentavo - DEFENDERS is on her amulet, not her gloves. I'll assume he said amulet as it would be obvious)
(To Steele - Info available:
Name: Lauralin Silverlief
Occupation: Former founder and leader of the adventuring group defenders. Fought in several campaigns in the region of Callahorn. Last known campaign, 3 years ago against an undead force led by the demon lord Orcus. Known for wandering the lands and defending people against tyranny and evil where they couldn't defend themselves (Thus her groups name). Last three years - Queen of Dragonsreach at her fathers behest (King of Highport and Holy Knight).
Info: Skilled swordswoman, innate sorcerous, relies on cunning and intellect over brute force, recently appointed U.N. delegate of region of Callahorn, has kept largely to the confines of her mansion estate since the last war and recent appointment, Various figures in key positions of her kingdom are all former associates.)

She didn't seem surprised by the voice and stepped back and to one side to get him beside her and still be able to watch the room.
"I would not expect to be known here" she replied in a voice that was thickly accented with elvish but musical and pleasant. "Defenders was my group once, before I got saddled with the burden of ruling a nation."
She politely refused refreshment from another servant before continuing, "Simply put, we defended those who could not defend themselves."
She looked up at Shentavo and quirked and eyebrow. "My turn" she said with a half smile, "I am not familiar with your race but I know you are Vampyric in nature. What is your originating species?"

"An honorable group it would seem if the aim was carried out as well as it was said I am sure." Kain said

"Psi is what I was when I was mortal. A human offshoot, different in slight variations for hair and eye colour, but most notably for thier deep rooted abilities in the arcane. A people I once lead as a mortal, now sadly scattered and hate my new found form." Kain said, informing this stranger of who he was before.

"My name is Kain Shentavo, of the Shentavo clan. Not that anyone honestly cares for the vampire clans. Who might you be, if I may inquire?" Kain asked poiltely and smoothly, his words elequent and most civil.

(PS to Steele: Tanis, being of elvish blood, might also know that recently in the region of Callahorn the elvish king was overthrown. The new king declared war on Dragonsreach and it was fought to a stand still. Dragonsreach was unable to breach the elven forest while the elvish forces couldn't gain ground in the open against the elite fighting force of Dragonsreach known as the black dragons. Of curious note is that there is a second force in dragonsreach comprised of criminals who had been sentanced to life imprisonment or death but was given a second chance to reclaim their lives by fighting for the Queendom in a force called the free corp. The war ended when Turquine Buccannah, her father and King of Highport rallied his own forces to her aid and placed the rightful king of the elves back on the throne.

wow,this is a really good Idea.Nice Idea,really,whoever wrote this thing.Its ingenius.love it.

She chuckled, "Honor and justice, like history, is written by the victors. In the eyes of those I fought for I am sure you are correct, but I am not so arrogant as to judge myself. I am who and what I am, nothing more."
She extended her hand before catching herself and curtseying. "I am Lauralin Silverlief, Queen of Dragonsreach. It is a pleasure to meet you. I fear am entirely new and woefully unprepared for affairs of diplomatic state. I am not familiar with you and do not know your title...." She stopped and looked up at Kain inquiringly.

"Wise words, spoken well I see." Kain said in respect for her intellegence and well placed words.

Kain put forward his hand....and put it down again. He explained. "I am sorry, but the custom of hand shaking would be a bit....messy in our case. One of the disadvanages of the situation I turned." His cloven talons seemed deadly, the three talons on each hand could flex oddly.

When she spoke of being unprepared, Kain smiled and chuckled slightly. "I believe we are in the same boat...if that is the expression used. I have only recently come back into the politcal realm, and my nation is hardly one at the moment. It is in the stages of resurrection. Simply call me Kain, I have no title as such, although I rule Velmora. I believe that a leader should be one with his people, not that I can anymore.....many things have changed, and I am just begining again with a new people. Hopefully this time it will result in better fortunes......" Kain said with a slight twinge of sadness in his tone when he spoke of "his people".

What struck him most was how perfect they looked together.

Steele watched as Shentavo glided up to the redhaired Elfling, his taloned feet barely touching the marble floors. There was a sense of restrained power around him, and Steele had to remind himself again of his true mission. He also reminded himself to be very, very careful around the vampire. He mentally checked his mind-shields, satisfied that they were in place. Rafe was magnifying their conversation, and Steele followed it with interest. He realized it sounded almost as if the two were...flirting.

Rafe provided a running commentary, updating Steele with information as it came in. The Elf, Lauralin Silverlief, seemed to be honorable in her own way, and the Defenders had a noble yet deadly reputation. Based on the information on hand, the gorgeous redhead was not any kind of threat that he could perceive...but Steele was going to observe her closely nonetheless.

This party was growing interesting, and increasingly dangerous: there were many power-players here, many with hidden agendas. It was as if the hand of the beautiful Aiwyn was playing second-fiddle to the actors in this drama.

Finally, it was Steele's turn to meet the Princess.

Aiwyn was a willowy beauty, strength and vulnerability entwined with a determined gaze. She was tall like most of the Elven Folk, but Steele was taller still. He looked her in the eye, and she returned his stare. He bowed, and spoke first.

"Your Majesty, I had a speech prepared, and it was very eloquent indeed, but now that I stand in your presence...I am speechless." Steele raised himself to full height, and smiled at the Princess.

"My name is Darius Steele, and it is a great honor to meet you."

Lord Draconis stood in silence for a moment, immediately in front of the entrance. "A most impressive structure," he said to himself. A few minutes earlier, he had made his traditional arrival via etheric portal. Closing the portal with a thought, the swirling vortex of the portal blinked out of existence. He had decided to visit the world after a demonic invasion forced him to leave Akaton. This seemed like good place to start. He had heard good things about this Princess Aiwyn, and though he wasn't looking for romance, it would be nice to meet her.

Upon entering the room, a few of the diplomats stared at him. Lord Draconis merely grinned, being familiar with the narrow minds of humans. He was obviously elvish, rather tall with elegant pointed ears and pale skin. He wore a spotless gray military uniform, mostly covered by an unusually long, black trench coat. Though the coat appeared tattered and ragged along the ground, a closer look would reveal it to be woven from pure shadow. The edges were merely reacting with the bright light, causing nearby light bulbs dim dramatically. He had brought his shining mithril saber (worryingly obvious to some paranoid guests), as well as a concealed pair of pistols. One could never be too safe at a gathering of this sort, and just because he had no bodyguards he didn't want to be helpless.

Looking out over the large gathering of ambassadors and dignitaries, his eyes glowed bright blue as he searched the minds of those nearby. Pausing for a moment as he came to Steele, he was surprised to find that he was using a mental shield. However, Lord Draconis realized that he uses a mental shield himself, and as such he decided it was unlikely that there was anything to be worried about. Noticing the stunningly beautiful princess for the first time, he walked towards her, thinking that this was going to be a very interesting party indeed.

(Akaton, my character, the greenshinned vampire, has a very light demonic aura to him, if your character is sensative to such things.)

It sounded like a sledge-hammer on a tin drum.

It was almost physical, the sound of Steele's mental shields deflecting the probe of the newcomer, and it caused the big security man to wince noticeably in front of the Princess. Thankfully, he was still in mid-bow and she didn't see his obvious discomfort. Rafe's screeching in his ear didn't make things any easier.

"Boss! I don't know how he slipped by, but you got an armed bogie heading straight for you. Scanning...sir, he's armed to the teeth...sensors show he arrived through some sort of energy portal...analyzing traces...SIR! Unknown energy signature, nothing we've ever seen before." Rafe continued to chatter as Steele made his introduction to the lovely Princess Aiwyn. Rafe was supposed to prompt him with a speech, but this new situation forced Steele to improvise.

Rafe continued: "Sir, the threat doesn't show up in Prime or Delta, so I ran a general infoscan...nothing certain, but we got a probable match. Your bogie is an Elf named Draconis, and he's a piss-sack full o' trouble."

"So am I." muttered Steele under his breath. He was amazed at the latitude of the Palace security, seemingly oblivious to the weapons of many of the visitors here. Steele had seen swords, knives and barely concealed guns in evidence, yet no one seemed concerned. Steele himself had no weapons on him on this mission.

He WAS the weapon.

Steele watched Draconis approaching as he spoke to the Princess.

Lord Draconis was rather puzzled by Steele's reaction to his probe, one didn't need psychic powers to see his discomfort. Steele obviously had something to hide, but given the large human's aggressive demeanor, Draconis thought it was a wise idea to leave him alone. Quickly turning his mental probe elsewhere, he detected an unusual individual. Turning to look in that direction, he saw a green colored vampire speaking to an attractive female elf. Moving away from Steele, he headed towards the vampire.

Waiting for a break in the conversation, Draconis got the vampire's attention. "Hello, I am Lord Draconis. I couldn't help but notice you when I arrived. Who might you be?" Speaking in a soft voice, Lord Draconis carefully pronounced each word, much more comfortable with speaking Elvish than English. Draconis's unusual accent combined with his appearance often left others thinking him rather sinister, hopefully not a problem when dealing with a creature such as this vampire.

Kain Shentavo, ruler of Velmora. Most people do notice me, I tend to attract attention. Kain replied mentally, using telepathy so his conversation with Lauralin.

Lauralin looked at Kain, saddeness registering in her own eyes. "Yes, I am all to familiar with loss. I wish you well Kain. Since no title you bear then I wish you would simply address me as Lauralin. I am as yet unused to the burden of titles and truly hope that I do not grow used to it."

As she said this last she looked over toward Steele who seemed to be paying particular attention to either herself or Kain. "Any idea who he might be?" she asked.

At that moment she turned as another entered the room. Her own mental defenses were practiced and honed but not to block thought. In her time it was often necassary to go unnoticed and her defenses were set up to guide thoughts around her mind as it probed, essentially making her invisible to a probe. She watched as the figure made it's way toward the Princess and glanced at Steele as his own mental defenses flared. She looked back at Kain, "I feel as though I have gone from one field of battle to another. The political arena may turn out to be not so boring as I had first anticipated."

Growing silent as the figure approached she turned her attention back to the Princess as he addressed the man next to her.

'I suppose', she responded in thought to Kain, 'that your appearance would indeed draw attention. It would seem to have drawn even more.'

(OOC That telepaty was directed at Draconis, but nevermind, just say you both heard it.)

"This battle is one of many subtle tricks and deceptions, one which I hate. I attempt at being blunt and honest, but when there are higher things at risk then yourself....things change." Kains said quietly, not audiable to anyone but the two of them.

Kain found it rather rude that this person has just interupted thier conversation.

"Yes, I realise that my appearance does indeed attract attention and sometimes an unwanted crowd. Would you mind if we could have a moment together, I would certainly wish your company soon, but not at this moment in time." Kain said more sternly and with a hint of annoyance.

Kain turned back to Lauralin, smiling.

"Shall we move to somewhere more private? Forgive me, but I grow unconfortable in large numbers of people....outside perhaps?" Kain said with the same quietness and disarming gentleness which Kain could possess. He was smiling slightly, and he seemed at ease.

Dropping her voice to one that was barely audible even to Kain she replied, "I shall have to learn these new rules. They seem not so straitforward as what I am used to."

"Shall we move to somewhere more private? Forgive me, but I grow unconfortable in large numbers of people....outside perhaps?" Kain said with the same quietness and disarming gentleness which Kain could possess. He was smiling slightly, and he seemed at ease.

(Just to get our posts straight, assume that this was said AFTER you said that)

Lauralin nodded politely to Kain. "Allow me a moment to greet the Princess. If I do not then my High Advisor will be upset. She sent me here to open Dragonsreach to the political arena. Then I shall be happy for a bit of solitude. I have kept largely to myself lately and am uncomfortable in crowds these days. If you would excuse me a moment?"

"Certainly, no problem at all Lauralin, take your time." Kain said pleasently, his experianced face smiling as he walked away slowly. He walked over to the outside doors to get some fresh air...and some time to himself.

She made her way over toward the Princess, moving silently toward the woman. She stopped just short of Steele and awaited her turn to be greeting by the Sidhe Princess.

Jack entered the throng, slipping between various high-born royalty & big-brass diplomats. Jack wasn't of any sort of noble birth... Quite simply, he was rich. Very rich.

Jack bodded & wove his way to the bar, ordering a glass of Hennessy...

"Yo, barkeep... Can I get a glass of your finest Hen... Hell, make it three..."

Steele waited patiently for the Princess to reply. She stared intently at him, and Steele fancied thet she liked what she saw. Why else would she simply gaze at him, without saying a word?

The static in his head told Steele that some powerfall telepaths were using their powers around him, though he could not hear what was being said. His own mental powers were clumsy and only effective when it came to defense. He assumed that Kain was involved, and the newcomer Draconis, who seemed to have been rebuffed by the vampire.

More people continued to enter the great ballroom, many of them joining the ever-growing line of guests waiting to see the Princess. Steele could not help but notice the beautiful redheaded Elf leave Shentavo's side to get into line behind him. He allowed her a little smile as he awaited a sign of life from the Princess.

A familiar figue entered the reception area, clad in a fine silk tunic the color of a summer's night. A fine silk cape hung from his ample shoulders, matching his tunic & the fine embroidered pants he wore... An exquisitely-crafted silver saber hung by his side, and his golden gaze swept the room.

Whiptail made no attempt to hide his indentity, as he usually did. Tonight was a night of celebration... There was a hint of vampiric scent in the air...

'A Shentavo... Interesting...'

Whiptail had long since retired from his vampire-hunting profession, yet his senses still picked up the peculiar odors associated with their race. It had become instinctive, and despite his best efforts, he could not turn such things off easily... It'd take him another two centuries...

Whiptail called out with his limited telepathic abilities...

'Hello?'

OOC: Sorry for not responding to Kain sooner, I was doing homework.

IC:
Lord Draconis sensed Kain's mild annoyance, realizing that he had been being rather annoying interrupting the vampire's conversation. After a few minutes, he telepathically apologized to Kain so as not to seem rude:

"Sorry for the interruption, I don't find my way to social gatherings very often."

Finishing his mental probe of the area, Draconis was convinced it was relatively safe. The number of trained psychics in the room amazed him. He took particular interest in the elf Kain had been talking to. He couldn't sense her mind at all. She must be using some form of advanced mental shield he thought, wishing he knew how she did that. Looking for the princess once more, he found that a rather large crowd had gathered around her. Deciding to wait until things quieted down a bit, Draconis walked towards the bar. He ordered a small glass of Champaign, and sat down at a table to watch Steele. The human seemed to be acting suspiciously towards him, though Draconis had no idea why.

Whiptail's fin-ears pricked up slightly as he picked up the word 'Velmora'...

'Interesting..'

The Dark Argonian hunter moved into the crowd, keeping his long & dexterous tail off of the ground... People had a horrible habit of stepping on it...

She glanced around at the mental 'hello' to see the tailed being before turning back toward the Princess. At Steele's brief smile she locked eyes with him and nodded her head slightly, holding his gaze, one warrior to another. Suddenly she seemed to stare off into the middle distance and after a few seconds her gaze returned to Steele, a bit harder than before and certainly more guarded. She looked for only a few more seconds before she once again returned her gaze to the stunning Princess.

Kain was slightly suprised when he heard the voice of Whiptail mentally. He replied only to Whiptail, "Strange, I did not expect you here Whiptail....why are you here?" Kain asked curiously. It was obvious that it was Kain's voice.

Kain still remained outside, looking at the sky.

Steele wanted to poke her, to make sure she was real, and not just a statue. The Princess continued to just stand there, a frozen, vapid smile on her face. The big security man began to feel uncomfortable, and the line behind him continued to grow. As Steele waited patiently...oh, so VERY patiently for the Princess to indicate she was alive, Rafe's familiar voice crackled in his ear.

"Boss, the party just got more interesting: an old "friend" of yours has decided to make an appearance...Whiptail is there."

Whiptail? Steele looked around quickly, not seeing the vampire-hunter anywhere. What the hell Whiptail was doing here, Steele didn't know. It had to do with Shentavo, of this he was sure, but how? Was there another contract on Kain, or had Whiptail been hired as backup in case Steele could not terminate the target? These were questions for another time, but for now, he had to warn Kain Shentavo.

The vampire was Steeles quarry, and no one elses...especially not that fraggin' Whiptail. At this point, Steele was beginning to feel that there was more behind this hit than a simple vampire-snuff. Rafe and Tanis were looking at a hypothesis that perhaps someone did not want Kain to enjoy his newfound position - a political power-struggle in the vampire worlds - and wanted Kain put down before he became too influential? Whatever the case, Steele needed more answers, and until he had them, Kain had to stay alive. With Whiptail after him, that might not be too easy for the vampire.

Steele needed to get to Kain NOW: sadly, the Princess continued to stare, not replying, and Steele was forced to stand there, helpless and useless, twiddling his mental thumbs, as he waited and hoped beyond hope that SOMETHING would snap the Princess out of her trance.

The woman cocked her head slightly as she heard a crackling voice, seemingly from Steele. She was not sure what it was, exactly, but it made him look around quickly and nervously. At this gesture she looked around herself, this time extending her senses. She stepped out of line and moved back toward the corner. Once there she scanned the room again not liking some of the things she was sensing. After scanning the room again her eyes became unfocused for a moment. Once she focused again she glanced at the Princess from time to time, otherwise she kept scanning the room, more with her mind than her eyes, unsure in this situation how to react. Finally she stepped outside and found a secluded spot in the shadows in the garden.

Kain thought about producing another cigar from his suit, but thought better of it. He did not need it, and he had been indulging himself too much with luxuries of a humble lifestyle. He needed to think about how to go about his plans of breathing life into his nation. It was a daunting task, one which Kain did not really know where to begin. What he did know however, is that he would need to create many more Constructs...

Breaking away from his usual posture when he was simply observing or wanting a moment to himself, the green-skinned vampire pushed himself off the wall of the building and began to walk around, simply wanting to look around.

His feet made no noise, the two pronged cloven toes allowing Kain the advantage of feeling the ground, unlike other people who wore shoes. It was rather pleasant to feel the grass under one's feet Kain thought with a slight smile.

Walking in the moonlight of the night, Kain's white hair seemed a fantastic silver of angel hair. It seemed to have a life of thier own and each strand of the wonderous fibre of Kain's hair appeared to glow from within, a warm white glow of life. His eyes bore the same deep ocean quality which people found enchanting and absorbing, the deep browness swirling and crashing with thier waves, the ebb and flow of colour now peaceful. Gone was the old eyesight which Kain had which bore him so much pain....those days were gone, and his eyes were storms of rage and pain...

"I thought you said you wanted to speak with the Princess?" Kain said softly, with a elequent and captivating manner. Kain's face was warm, most rare for the reserved and silent being of such a complex past. He was standing on the gravel path, the darkness parted for his eyes. He saw her form in perfect light of the moon, and was reminded of someone else by it strangely, although he could not remember who.

Lauralin turned quickly, flames dancing across her hands and fingers.

"She's going too" came a voice from behind Kain, "just as soon as our conversation is done. You see?" said the woman from behind walking past Kain to Lauralin, "what if he was going to attack you? You would have never known."

"If I were not distracted by this foolish conversation then I would have sensed him. How many times do we have to have this discussion, Leena? I do not like feeling as though I am a prisoner. I do not need guards and I do not want guards." Lauralin nodded to Kain only then remembering to bring her sorcerous powers under control. As the flames on her hands died away she turned back to the raven haired woman.

The woman was standing facing Lauralin, her crystal eyes almost clear. "If we didn't care we wouldn't ask you to take them." she replied. "Well, that and the fact that your not saddling me with the burdens of a nation." she said winking.

"I feel like a prisoner, Leena. I am more than capable of taking care of myself."

"Then your bodyguard would have an easy job of it." the raven haired beauty responded.

"I would just as soon father came with me. May as well have a chaparone." Lauralin responded.

"Excellent idea!" the woman said gleefully, "good thing I've already taken the liberty of having Ferranifer get him."

Lauralin gasped. "YOU had this arraged ALL ALONG!"

"Of course I did. I knew you would bring him up." she replied stepping forward and running her fingers through Lauralin's hair.

The response was almost immediate as Lauralin's eyes slid closed and she visibly relaxed. "Cheater", she uttered.

"Of course I am", then she sighed and stepped away. "I need to get back to running your kingdom. Hurry back." And with that she vanished.

Lauralin turned to Kain, "I am sorry for that. They feel that even after all the campaigns I have been in that I cannot defend myself." she said rolling her eyes. "I do wish to see the Princess but that Steele fellow was making me nervous glancing about the way he was. It is because of him that Arleena feels I need a bodyguard."

Kain watched the entire scene play out, the own little drama seeming strange to him, but Kain understood why it did indeed happen. He noted that she did indeed posses arcane powers as he suspected.

"Funny, during my mortal rule such things never happened. Rulers in Velmora were as the common people, not afraid of danger or protected from it. But that Steele character is indeed dangerous. But you are hardly his quarry, and if you were I would have assisted in your defence. He was in fact, intending to kill me, due to my kind's demonisation and infamy, some of which is deserved by certain characters. He is having second thoughts now....after actually meeting and conversing with me....a brave one I must say." Kain commented quietly, casually and calmly. He seemed unsuprised, nor shocked by the fact that Steele was intenting on killing him.

Your services are appreciated Cloak.
I am glad to assist Kain.

The two spoke mentally very briefly while Kain was speaking. Kain had the ability to multitask, unlike normal men.

"It is Arleena's understanding that he takes pleasure in killing vampires. It was for this reason that she insisted on having someone with me, though I appreciate your offer of assistance" she said sincerely, "Arleena is knowledgable about many groups having run a group of her own for so long. As for having guards," Lauralin shrugged, "I suppose it is because they were my friends before they worked for me. They are all part of my group. I think they take it to the extreme now that I...." her voice trailed away and she winced slightly as a man appeared suddenly in the court yard.

The power of the Holy Knight emminating from him was enough to daunt most demons. He was not an overly tall man at about five feet nine but he was massively built with thick corded muscles rippling beneath the skin. His hair is iron grey and his eyes ice blue. Elven blood is obvious though not full as indicated by his pointed ears. A scar runs from the left side back of his head across to his jaw, having severed the lower part of his left ear. Another large scar runs from just behind his temple to his jaw. He is wearing a course wool, short sleeved shirt and fine lines from cuts are evident on his arms and hands as though from many battles and his hands are calloused. He wear worn leather pants and boots. One sword hangs from his right hip and as he gets his bearings he sees Kain and Lauralin. His eyes lock on Kain and his hand wraps around the pommel of his sword as his eyes change from ice blue to a deep grey....

Kain raised an eyebrow at this opponent. This was obviously going to be interesting, and a challenge. But Kain knew that he had not fought in some considerably time, and that some this had to be tested.

"As you wish stranger, if you wish to fight me, I shall grant you your wish. Although I do not wish to fight you...." Kain said simply. He moved his neck around while his eyes were closed. He recalled the countless spells at his disposal, and the things which he had been taught.

He opened his eys to see that the Knight had not said anything and still held his intent to fight.

Reaching forward with his left hand, a blade matieralised into being. A silver, wave blade with a skull hilt. It glowed a soft blue, and the runes accross it hummed and flickered into life at the knowledge that it was required. The Brightblade had not been used in some time.

Holding the blade his his side, Kain's white suit dissolved, to reveal his Cloak and his greenskinned body. It was now Crimson. It was obviously magical, and the symbol of the Shentavos was clearly emblazened upon it. It moved as though gravity did not have a hold on it, and it's colour changed slowly.

Kain began to chant and move his left hand in strange movements...the combat was about to begin.

What am I up against here Lauralin? How do I defend myself against him?

(OOC In this combat, Kain has many defences available so if you are going to use a spell against him simply say that it is coming towards him and I will react accordingly. Kain is rather powerful, he has fought demons and such. I assume that the knight is highly experianced and powerful yes?)

(Yes he is extremely powerful and his blade is an artifact holy avernger, but....)

"STOP!" Lauralin shouted and stepped forward facing the Holy Knight. "Father this is an aquantance of mine, please, show him curtesy" she turned to Kain, "Kain, please, he came at Arleena's warning of Steele."

The man looked at his daughter then back at Kain, visibly relaxing, his eyes going from grey to ice blue. He left his hand on his sword waiting for Kain to relax his posture. "My humble apologies, I sought only to protect my daughter. She is the last of three wives and six children. When I sensed you I thought you to be the enemy."

(Oh and if I am to do combat I would discuss with you (or anyone for that matter) oocly first so that we can work it out.)

Kain immediately made his blade dissipate and stopped chanting. He felt ashamed now, it was his immediate impression of the person that he was going to attack Kain on sight. It was a reaction Kain had aquired due to neccesity. Kain wondered if he could take on this person in any case....that blade was highly potent, and his own sword was far in comparison. He thanked God that his blade no longer held the trapped demon within it.

"My apologies....judging by your weapon there and your appearance I thought....nevermind."

Kain bowed. "I am Kain Shentavo, and I can understand your defensive reaction to my presence....I would have reacted the same in your situation I think." Kain said looking at the figure.

His suit formed on his body....and Lauralin's father noticed a massive scar upon Kain's chest. It seemed like a blade had been thrust into him and torn out...it bore the marks of a demonic attack. It was in fact two scars in one, but the most recent had been the most agonising and freeing.

"The fault is mine" the man replied as he removed his hand from his sword hilt and bowed in return, "Turquine Buccanah at your service, Sir."

Lauralin breathed a sigh of relief and stepped forward to embrace her father, being very careful not to touch the sword hilt. "I do not need a bodyguard" she told him in a warm, though stern voice.

Her father returned her hug then stepped back holding his hands up. "I'm not getting involved in that debate. First of all because I know the throne room can feel like a prison sometimes and wouldn't want you subjected to that and second because I have yet to win a debate with you." he said grinning at her. "But as I do represent Highport and I'm here I may as well wish the Princess Highports best." With that he looked up at Kain, "Would you join us, Sir?" he asked and then looked down at himself, "That is if you can forgive my attire."

Lauralin looked over at Kain as she took her father's arm. "We did come to wish her well after all did we not?"

The attendants and footmen around the Princess looked nervous, and a small, mousy man with thick glasses stepped up to Steele, who towered over him. The official cleared his throat, and squeaked out a few words.

"Our apologies, Mr. Steele, it seem's that the Princess has been somewhat overwhelmed by the events of today, and she begs your forgiveness." With that, the small man ushered the Princess off, leaving Steele in the middle of the floor. A group sigh of disappointment rang out behind him, and the line of party-goers began to dissipate. It was then Steele noticed that the Elf, Lauralin, was nowhere to be seen. Neither was Whiptail.

Sensing that something was happening, Steele made his way to the large, ornate doors where he had seen Kain exit earlier. There was something strange going down, and he was part of it. Until Steele knew exactly what the game was, and who the real players were, he had to keep Kain alive.

He stepped through the door, lighting a cigar as he looked around. Kain, Lauralin and a solid-looking soldier were standing in a small circle to the right of him. If the Defenders wanted to mess with Vampire politics, now would be a good time...and Kain now had his back to the redheaded Elf, engaged in conversation with the short, dangerous looking man.

Steele moved towards them, walking as if he was just a simple guest enjoying the fresh air and beutiful gardens of the Palace courtyard. He passed within distance to strike very quickly, if needed: the woman first, then the man. Kain heard his footsteps, and turned his head slightly, eyes making contact with Steele.

He smiled in recognition at the vampire, and spoke before anyone else could:

"Well, Mr.Shentavo...we meet again! I see you are enjoying the lovely flowers as well, eh? Speaking of lovely flowers, I dn't believe I've had the honor of meeting you...miss?"

Steele looked directly at Lauralin, smiling his most diplomatic smile. Out of the corner of his eye, he watched the other man, an older Elf by the look of him. He did not seem happy to see Steele.

Lauralin looked at Steele and curtseyed politely. "Mr. Steele, we have not had the pleasure. I am curious what would bring a mercenary group to a ball? Come for the food?" Flames danced across her hands and fingers as she gazed at Steele, her tension triggering her innate magical powers.

"Steele", the man said in a deep rumbling voice, obviously more accustomed to shouting orders on the battlefield rather than holding a quiet conversation. Though aged he was still a man to step first onto the field of battle and step off last or not at all. His eyes changed again from ice blue to deep grey as he took a step between the flame haired woman and Steele. "I don't think I'VE had the pleasure." he said as he extended his hand, "Turqiune Buccannah, King of Highport."

Though his hand dwarfed the smaller man's, Turqiune Buccannah had a grip that made Steele take notice.

"The pleasure is all mine, your Majesty." replied Steele, bowing his head slightly as a sign of respect. He looked back at Lauralin and smiled again, appreciating the delicate strength of the redheaded Elfling.

"To answer your question, m'Lady, I have indeed come for the the festivities and fine foods...and a gentleman never refuses a chance to meet beautiful women, now does he?" He bowed to her as well, returning his gaze to the King.

"Well, I don't want to interupt your conversation any further, so I'll bid you all farewell." Steele turned and took a step. He stopped and turned back as if he had just remembered something.

"Actually, if you have a moment Kain, I needed to ask you something of some import...could I speak with you alone for a moment?" Steele looked at the vampire, his eyes emphasizing the importance of his words.

"My apologies to you both, but I promise to return Mr.Shentavo to you momentarily." Steele began to walk slowly away, hoping that Kain would follow.

Lauralin nodded to Steele then as he turned she called out, "Mr. Steele", as she took a step forward the flames on her hands flickering then going out, "Forgive me. I am all to familiar with the life you lead and I should not be so judgmental. Though our paths were different our lives were similar once. My name is Lauralin Silverlief, I am the Queen of Dragonsreach. This" she said indicating the King, "is my father. Perhaps we could speak further when your time permits? In the meantime I shall leave you and Kain to your discussion, but first, is the Princess now available?"

Her voice was like liquid gold, and it mesmerized Steele. He reached out and took the Elfs hand, and gently brought it to his lips. He could feel great strength in her hands as well...like father, like daughter.

"It is an honor, your Majesty. I would be fascinated to discuss our mutual "interests" at a later time...I'm sure you have Defender stories that are truly high adventures!" This was Steeles way of letting Lauralin know that he knew who she was, and that no games needed to be played between these two seasoned professionals.

"As for the Princess Aiwyn, well, she seems to be...indisposed for now. Pity." Steele was at a loss to explain what really happened to the Princess. He wasn't sure himself.

"I beg your leave, m'Lady, m'Lord." Steele turned again, assuming Kain would follow.

"I will join you both soon, it was indeed a pleasure meeting you both. One moment while I attend Steele's wants..." Kain said, smiling at both of them as he left.

Kain did indeed follow, curious to why Steele would want him. Perhaps now he would attempt to kill him Kain pondered, or perhaps simply to talk. More possibly the former more than the latter Kain suspected, although he followed. HIs face grew more serious and buisness-like.

"What is it? I would like to return to my previous company." Kain said slightly annoyed at this interuption. He was ready for combat if it presented itself.

Lord Draconis was quite interested in the confrontation outside. Mentally observing the events outside, he was alarmed by the sudden appearance of the older elf and the near battle between him and the vampire. They both seemed to have extremely strong arcane abilities. The young female elf also seemed to have strong powers but a good deal less control. Finishing his drink, Draconis gets to his feet and began to walk towards where the princess had been. Unfortunately, she was no longer present, and he was curious as to why.

Draconis watched Steele hurrying outside. "I wonder if he offended the princess, humans can be so unsubtle," Lord Draconis said to himself. Thinking that something was about to happen outside, he slowly worked his way through the crowd in the direction of the large, ornate doors. Sensing a wave of aggression coming form Steele, directed towards Kain, Draconis instinctively reached for his sword. Remembering this was a social gathering, he didn't draw his weapon. Instead, he sat down again, closely watching the situation develop.

Steele ushered Kain away, still within viewing distance of the Lauralin and the King. He did this to let the vampire know that he planned nothing untoward. He relit his cigar, took a long draw then looked at the vampire. Steele felt that somone somewhere was playing him for a fool, and he wasn't sure who. He was fairly certain it wasn't Shentavo. Steele made his decision.

"This will sound very strange, but I've come here to kill you." Before the vampire could react, Steele continued on.

"Let me explain: I accepted a contract to terminate you, for various crimes against humanity. For many reasons, I no longer believe you committed that for which you're accused." the big security man hurried on.

"There are others here tonight, hitmen and hunters, and I believe that they have also been sent to deal with you. Someone wants you dead very badly, Mr.Shentavo." He paused to smoke, and he could see the vampire considering all he had heard.

Kain seemed unsuprised.

"Yes, I know why you are here. And you need not worry. Whiptail knows me, and we have fought together on many occasions. And anyone else can try if they really wish it. It just tests my patence. It is pleasing to know that I would not need to fight you, the results would be disturbing for everyone here I feel."

Kain was slightly suprised when he heard the voice of Whiptail mentally. He replied only to Whiptail, "Strange, I did not expect you here Whiptail....why are you here?" Kain asked curiously. It was obvious that it was Kain's voice.

Kain still remained outside, looking at the sky.

Whiptail concentrated, focusing his message...

'It is the surprises in life that keep things intersting, old friend... I might ask you the same question... Are you bride-hunting?'

The Dark Argonian smiled inwardly at his comment, anatomically unable to do so on the outside...

"So, being hunted is a regular occurance for you?" Steele stared at the vampire. He was beginning to feel frustrated.

"Listen Kain, it may not seem like a big deal to you, but if someone is so interested in offing you, don't you think that many innocents around here may be in danger?" Steele stepped up onto Kain's face. They were eye to eye, neither man giving an inch.

"You think for a minute that this MIGHT be bigger than just you? Maybe someone doesn't like the power you wield...any kind of political upheaval could affect all the vampire nations, which in turn could affect us all!"

Whiptail finally located Kain, standing in front of a very hostile-looking individual... The hunter ambled over to the pair...

"Is there a problem?"

His tone had gone from light-hearted & joking to one of firm concern...

Jack finished his first glass, taking the other two with him into the crowd... He caught a fleeting glimpse of a long, black-scaled tail...

"What is Whiptail's scaly ass doing here?"

Lauralin watched as Steele stepped closer to Kain. She listened for the whisper of steel on leather. When the tailed being approached she looked between it and the two men then over at her father. As usual he looked utterly calm. Her gaze shifted down and she saw his right arm resting on his sword hilt, his left laying across his right forearm. To the casual eye he was relaxed, but she knew that he wasn't. He was ready to draw. When she looked back at the confrontation she wondered which one he would fight for. Steele had not threatened either of them outright, he was here because of her paranoia. But any possible threat to her was something he dealt with harshly. Yet he had fought against undead most almost all his life at one point or another. Undead of any kind, to him, were evil and he was of the order that believed that had to be destroyed. It was a beleif he held firmly. At least until three years ago. Three years ago when she had made her fateful decision. The decision that would ultimetly let her see most of her friends die. This brief but powerful saddness escaped her discipline of iron will and allowed the feeling to slip out.

Draconis was relieved that Steele hadn't tried to kill the vampire. He had been hoping to go to at least one party that didn't turn into a fight to the death. Besides, he really wanted to talk with Kain at some point.

Though he couldn't hear much of what was being said between them, Draconis did hear that Steele had been hired to kill the vampire but had decided not to attack. Steele seemed to have a bit more wisdom than an average human, given the extremely powerful nature of his target. This certainly explains a lot, the elf thought to himself, moving off into the crowd of diplomats.

Draconis decided that this was a perfect time to meet the female elf, who until recently had been talking to Kain. Not wanting to alarm her, he hid his sword within the shadows of his unusual coat. Stepping through the large doorway leading to the outside, he stopped a moment to admire the beautiful view of the surrounding lands. Green plants and open spaces had been a rare sight in Akaton for the past few centuries. Remembering why he had come outside, he bowed to the elvish queen of DragonReach. "Hello, I am Lord Phaeton Draconis. With whom do I have the honor of speaking?" He knew such introductions weren't really necessary, as a trained psychic such as the queen could easily determine who he was. Sensing supressed sadness from her, he had the feeling that perhaps Lauralin was here for more than just a social gathering.

OOC: Lord Draconis does have a first name, but he uses his last name more often.

The Deryn were a race of psionicists and Arial was counted among the strongest, so Laura's training was no mere past time. She noticed the figure as it moved toward them and caught her father shifting his stance slightly out of the corner of her eye. Angry at allowing herself to slip as she had she slammed her defenses back down and curtseyed politely to the newcomer.

"Greetings Lord Draconis" she replied in elvish, glad to speak the language she had grown up with since she had never really mastered the common tongue of the regions, "I am Lauralin Silverlief, Queen of Dragonsreach and this is my Father, Turquine Buccannah, King of Highport. We are of the region known as Callahorn. Small enough not to heard of I am sure as we only recently opened our borders."

She reached out her gloved hand to the newcomer as her father bowed in an old style courtly manner. "An honor, Sir" he said before glancing back at the assembled men, but quickly returned his attention to the man before him.

Gawdly:

Aiwyn smiles politely at Steele. “The honor is all mine, I assure you. I am very glad that you could attend, good sir. I do hope you are enjoying the party?” She arches a brow as he turns away and begins speaking to other people but shrugs lightly, her bare shoulders glistening in the soft light of the ballroom.

Mercenary Soldiers:

Two troll guards walk politely, yet firmly, up to Jackson. The biggest one, a nine foot tall, armed and armored, blue, muscular warrior with large horns coming from his forehead, speaks. “You can’t take the firearms in there, sir, sorry.”

Dragonsreach:

The Princess turns her gaze on the lovely redhaired elven woman, dipping a small curtsey in her direction. After a long moment, she turns back to the party. A faint nod indicates for a servant to go bow to the Queen. “Your Majesty, Her Imperial Highness is hoping for the pleasure of conversing with you.”

Akaton:

As the servant approaches Lauralin, Lady Tatiana moves near Lord Draconis, saying nothing as yet.

((OOC: If my characters are lost or motionless, I’ll post it. If I take longer between posts than usual without posting anything, it’s for some OOC reason, in this case, because my computer crashed for a couple days. I’d appreciate it if people would be more patient if something similar happens again.))

(OOC To resurgent dream - I assumed something had happened so I went along with the RP at hand. I was just hoping you would return soon. Sorry to hear about the comp I know how that feels.)

Lauralin curtseys to Tatiana as she approaches Draconis and turns her attention to the servant beaming a smile at him. She takes her father's arm and whispers to him briefly (Come father, the Princess wishes converse with me, you can meet her (To those who can hear the whisper)). Taking his daughter's arm he turns to face the servant. "If that is alright?" she asks the servant politely.

Lord Draconis smiled slightly at Lauralin, enjoying a chance to talk with another elvish-speaker at the party. Responding in elvish he said,
"It is nice to meet you, Queen Silverlief, but it seems as though we must continue our conversation later."
Turning to Lady Tatiana, Draconis bowed briefly and greeted her, waiting to see what she wanted to talk with him about. As he waited for Tatiana to reply, he sent a mental message to Lauralin.
I'm very interested in learning more about your country, it is new to me. I don't get a chance to speak to a fellow elf very frequently, and I would hate to miss such an opportunity.

Lauralin smiled as she responded to Draconis in elven, "' Indeed I find it pleasant to speak the tongue. Though at home I can, I do not get to do so often in public. I will certainly look forward to renewing our conversation at a later time. '" At the same she responded to his telepathic message, 'Well then you should visit Dragonsreach sometime. The Capital is quite remarkable, having been shaped from the vast crystal deposits into the very buildings in which we live. The reflections are quite beautiful in the right light and all of my staff is fluent in elvin.' As she finished her response she returned her attention to the servant.

i am not and alien nor a monster ,i am quiet normal .i hail from a queendom but i am interested in marrying this princess as i have a large sum of money ,nothing sexual just an eternal bond of friendship where i will make sure she gets what she wants ,happiness,of corse i can find the best STUDS for her as i have found a great one for myself ,,,,i am awaiting a rely for the princesses hand
what makes a husband?

Akaton:

Lady Tatiana curtsies to Lord Draconis. "I do not believe I have had the pleasure, m'lord."

DragonsReach:

The servant leads Lauralin towards the Princess, who curtsies graciously. "You honor me with your presence, Your Majesty."

Lauralin hesitates a moment before curtseying to the Princess. "Forgive me but the trappings of my title are as yet new to me", she says in a musical voice, thickly accented with elvish, "no need for title, I come at your behest and am honored for the invitation to this, your special night. May I introduce my father, King Buccannah of Highport?" (A description of him is on note 83 in case you haven't had a chance to catch up)

The man who had been standing somewhat behind Lauralin looks at the Princess uncomfortably, obviously unprepared for his visit. Though caught off guard he sweeps into an old courtly bow and takes the Princess hand as he straightens, kissing it gently before releasing it. "I beg forgiveness for my attire, I was ill prepared for this meeting. I offer this not as an excuse but only as a reason, for there is no excuse that would serve to be in the presence of one who defines beauty and yet be in paltry state that I am."

He steps back, obviously upset by his lack of preperation and Lauralin quickly steps forward. "Might I inquire, being as we are but a small and unknown region, how it is that we were graced with your invitation?"

"So, being hunted is a regular occurance for you?" Steele stared at the vampire. He was beginning to feel frustrated.

"Listen Kain, it may not seem like a big deal to you, but if someone is so interested in offing you, don't you think that many innocents around here may be in danger?" Steele stepped up onto Kain's face. They were eye to eye, neither man giving an inch.

"Listen Steele, this might seem strange to you, but consider for a moment an existance from my perception. The number of enemies of this plane are dwarved by those on other planes. I have pissed off a great number of people. At any moment, I could be attacked from vampire hunters, demons, angels, my kind, the wraiths of my people, simply because what I am and what I have done during my many years. What do you want me to do?" Kain said angrily, waiting a moment.

"Lie within a fortress ready to defend myself? Become a reclus because others may be get harmed due to my very presence? Fear other's company due to what I am and what people may do? Don't get me wrong, if something does happen, I work my frelling hardest to protect innocents around me who are simply caught up in my own affairs and politics of both realms. But I have tried living not affecting the world, and it does not work. It does not work." Kain said slowly and meaningfully. He had obviously thought about this a considerable deal, and the problems of which he could cause.

"You think for a minute that this MIGHT be bigger than just you? Maybe someone doesn't like the power you wield...any kind of political upheaval could affect all the vampire nations, which in turn could affect us all!"

Kain exploded into speech, angrily. It was the first time Kain had broken from his calmness. His eyes seemed to have storms within them.

"Do you even realise what my nation is? A ruined nation begining it's choking rise to something it will never be again. Velmora's population is a grand total of three! And if my actions cause a political upheaval, then so be it. You expect me standing here, talking to people will seriously cause the vampiric politics to go haywire? An attack will simply result in me fleeing to a better position where I will fight. And just so you know.....the vampires know that I am not entirely vampire. I thought that was obvious because of my appearance. I am not entirely vampire Steele...." Kain said defiantly and walked away at a fast pace, making no noise at all. His hair trailed behind him gracefully, yet Kain seem frustrated by the entire incident.

Kain walked outside again, to be alone with his thoughts and to get some solitude. He wondered about what he had just said, and if he was correct. He knew that he was in his own mind. It was just very tiring defending himself again and again from every corner. He just wished that everything would settle down, that Kain Shentavo was not the center of attention from everyone. It was so tiring. His Sire had to deal with this all the time, due to her heritage and actions. But she accepted it, it was part of her. She had been created into strife.

Kain sat down upon one of the benches and looked up to the skies.

"Ravelyn....why did you have leave....I wish things were different....that I could have been guided in those years....you were always so busy with your own affairs...affairs I was dragged into Ravelyn.....just a little more guidance....just a little more..." Kain said softly to the cold air, his voice fatgiued and regretful. He was refering to his sire, Ravelyn Shentavo.

He sighed and thought of the past.

Steele was taken aback by the intensity of the verbal attack. Kain had shown more emotion now than at any time earlier...he looked almost human. As he stalked away, Steele replied, loud enough for Kain's ears only:

"What can you do? YOU CAN FIGHT." Steele had no patience for those who had the power to make change, yet chose not to. He had just told his target that he was being hunted, yet Kain had no fear, seemingly. He just looked...tired.

Steele was torn: his poppa had an old saying, "fish or cut bait"...Darius had no idea where the reference came from, but he knew it meant "make a decision and act on it NOW." The big security man didn't have many choices.

He could complete his contract: taking down the vampire would not be easy, but if it was easy, Steele would not have been needed. He had grown to admire, and even like, the green-skinned vampire who was so different from every other blood-sucker Steele had ever met, or killed. Kain was outside now, so there would be limited damage and casualties to the guests.

Steeles other choice was to just give up and walk away. He was being paid to do a job, not to do what was RIGHT. He could turn his back on the whole thing...let Kain get taken down, let the vampire worlds fall into a state of civil war, let this day turn into a memory of bloodshed.

He realized he had a third choice: find out who was behind the hit, and why they wanted Kain out of the way. He also needed to do this in a way that would not let his employers know he had switched sides. At the same time, he needed to avoid getting into confrontations with the other players in this game. It would not be easy, but it would be right.

He looked again at Kain, two weary warriors pausing before the last great battle.

"Have you been alone so long that you have forgotten what it means to have someone care? About you, about your people, about your future? Have you become that much of a monster???" Steele was speaking loudly, angered at his own frustration. Kain stood impassively. He knew he was pushing things now, that his words could turn Kain into a very dangerous individual. Steele had no time for fear.

Kain looked at Steele for a long moment, and said slowly and darkly, "You don't know me. You know nothing. You know nothing of my past or my actions."

Kain took his gaze off Steele and looked up at the moon, his arms crossed and his face hard and stern. He began to speak again, softer but still with the degree of seriousness about it.

"I am curious to know how you think my actions will cause a civil war of some sort. I am on no side, but myself and what I believe in." Kain simply stated the question, and awaited an answer from Steele.

Kain did not have to explain himself to Steele, but Steele certainly did have to explain why he felt that Kain's presance or actions here would cause such upheavel and danger.

"Look, I don't have any facts: just a feeling that something is not quite right. Oh, and I know more about you than you think."

<<OOC: I am perusing everything I can find on Kain and his past even as we speak!>>

Steele paused, looking at the vampire. He was close enough that if he wanted to terminate Shentavo, he could do so...quickly and permanently. The thought escaped him, and he saw Kain stiffen, as if in anticipation. Steele tested his mind-shield again, yet it was secure. Was the vampire even more powerful than he thought?

"Do what you want, Shentavo." all pretext of politeness dropped from Steele. "Go and hide away in a corner, pitying yourself, waiting for the day when someone like me comes and finishes you, once and for all."

Steele played his final card.

"I don't waste my time with cowards."

Kain underwent a change so spontaneous it was heart-stopping. Kain's polite exterior crumbled to reveal his inner rage, a furnace which ravaged those who grew to close to those terrible coals. His face grew furious, his fine white hair changed colour to a burnt crimson colour, the fiber of his hair seeming to glow with demonic heat, as if his hair were flames themselves. But it was not the most fearful attribute of Kain....that belonged to Kain's eyes. Previous brown and calm, they had now become a vortex of a terrible storm engulfing souls with its retribution. Steele found himself, lifted up off the ground several feet, even though he felt no hand upon him. Kain was above him, looking directly at him roaring the words with a impossibly deep voice of a demon, "YOU DARE CALL KAIN SHENTAVO A COWARD STEELE!"

Tossing Steele into a tree his psychic abilities with no effort, Kain kept his eyes upon Steele as he was cast towards it. It was amazing force to which Kain threw him, and the speed in which he reacted was terrifying. Any mental shield that Steele had possessed had been bypassed with little trouble.

Steele was about to hit the tree, when Kain grabbed him physically with his left hand , grabbing and ripping his shirt, thus stopping his propulsion to the tree. Pulling his hand towards himself, making Steele come eye to eye so that Steele could not escape them.

Kain had now an immense sense of dread to behold, as if one might die to simply look at such a creature. There was immense passion in this vampiric creature, for his own honor and his morals. To cross them was a sever mistake.

"You know nothing Steele! I do not hide, I do not cower. What am I cowering from Steele? What thing do I fear that you continue to accuse me to run from?" Kain hissed angrily at Steele. Kain was in control here.

The following had occurred in less than five dreadful seconds.

Everything happened so quickly that Steele had no time to respond. At the word "coward", Kain became a fearsome creature, darkening, drawing great energies toward himself. Steele felt himself lifted in the air, and thrown away like a childs toy. He had a moment of grim satisfaction, knowing his ruse had worked: NOW he had the vampires attention!

Kain grabbed Steele by the shirt, before he crashed into a tree. The force of the motion took the wind from him, and the big security man felt himself lifted into the air, pulled face to face with Shentavo. The two regarded each other. Rafes voice crackled through his comm-link.

"Sir, I can give you full exo-power now, just say the word and we'll fry the blood-sucker..." Steele gave no word...he needed to take this risk a little farther. There was something very wrong with this whole scenario, and Kain was the key behind it...Steele was not sure of the HOW and WHY of the situation, but he knew that the WHAT was Kain. Now he just had to make the vampire understand...at least he had his full attention now.

"What part of 'coward' don't you understand?" breathed Steele, his nose almost touching Shentavo's.

"Oh, you seem brave enough, using your powers on a human...I guess yer just scared of the truth." Kain stared, unrivalled power flaring behind his eyes. Steele knew that he was very close to dying now, and he had to tread carefully.

"You are more important than you think, Kain Shentavo...and a coward for failing to accept that as a fact."

The powers flowing outside made Laura and her father leap into action. Lauralin's sorcerous powers flared into life as she was enveloped in a halo of flame and she quickly moved toward the doors. Turquine grabbed the princess and turned, placing himself between the doorway and Aiwyn before turning to look. Seeing no direct threat to her he gently urged her toward her guards, "See to her safety", he told them, unconciously taking control of the situation and then followed his daughter.

Lauralin saw the seen before her and felt the rage in Kain as he held Steele. 'Baser emotions..anger, fear, lust...these allow gateways to the mind if you ride them in'. The words rang in her ears just as Ariel had said them. She closed her eyes and rode the fury into Kains mind taking on form once she arrived. In his mind she appeared wreathed in flame shot with blackness. 'Kain,' she said in his mind, 'cease this.' As she spoke the darkness moved away to take the form of an ebony knight. Curiously it was not a part of herself....but another soul.

Turquine burst through the doorway drawing the god forged blade, it's power bursting forth. "HOLD YOUR MOMENT!!" he bellowed, his voice forceful.

"What truth Steele? What do you speak of?" Kain hissed at him, and then dropped him with a gentle thud upon the ground. He turned to view the two of them.

And then....a familar sensation swept over Kain. A feeling Kain had not felt since Ravelyn had purified the Brightblade while it roared through his body. That is where he got the scar from....and it throbbed painfully now as the holy blade was drawn.

An immense sensation of vertigo and displacement came over Kain, as his eyes darted from side to side. His skin glowed a faint blue, a natural reaction to magics against him. The blade was a thing of holiness, and although vampires were for the most part exempt from the affects of holy items, Kain was not entirely vampire.

Kain could not concentrate upon his thoughts, a spell slipped from his grasp like a snowflake within a fiery grips. His eyes hurt when he looked upon the holy blade...and then he realised what was happening.

"That sword....keep it away.....!" Kain gasped, holding his head. His mind pounded, and he could do nothing. His legs felt heavy and as if they were filled with molten lead. There seemed to be a fog to his vision and his breathing increased in it's rythmn.

Kain took a few steps back from the blade....and fell onto the floor. He tried to get some control, but he could not. Fear entered his mind as he realised what the blade was. A holy weapon....a weapon which put fear into demonic creatures....and Kain was indeed part demonic due to his exposure and reliance of one demon, the demon which had sustained him within the Brightblade before it was purified by his sire.

"Speak Steele and explain what you mean!" Kain said in a racked gasp and slight frustrated snarl.

Turquine noticed that with each step closer to Kain, that his skin glowed a more intense blue. It was comparable to the natural defences of many greater demons, as was his hands, cloven and three pronged. Kain seemed affected by the blade intensely, the same reaction that a demon would have.

Turquine looked at Kain in momentary confusion before he realized that he had drawn the sword. He quickly moved to Steele, sheathing 'Retribution's Voice' as he did so, regretting having drawn it at all. Over two centuries of battles had made him react without thinking and looked apologetically at Kain even as he pulled Steele away.

Lauralin called out again, 'Kain', she said in a calm voice in his mind as the soul of the knight moved closer to her, 'we shall get our answers, but this is not helping. You and I know all to well the virtue of patience and in the eyes of others his words are only proved by your actions. Do not allow them the satisfaction.'

(P.S. Turquines sword is made entirely of crystal except for the leather wrapped handle and it seems to glow with an inner bluish-white light.)

When the vampire grabbed himself as if in great pain, Steele reacted automatically: he scanned for assailants, saw no one except Lauralin and her father...who had drawn a huge blade, crackiling with obvious mystic power. Steele was right! There was an assasination plot here, and it looked like these royal Elves were behind it. When Kain loosened his grip, Steele made his move.

"Rafe, give me a 30 second burst NOW!" yelled Steele, diving in front of the vampire, rolling and coming up in a fighting stance in front of the King, who was approaching with sword drawn. Steele felt the familiar surge of energy through his internal exo-unit, and he was aware of the great strength now at his command. He raised a hand, pointing his finger at the King.

"One more step and I'll fry you dead...your Majesty." With a thought, Steele could unleash a torrent of pure energy, enough to light a small city, in a focussed blast directly into the King. He held his fire, knowing only that once again, something did not feel right. But Kain was down on knee, begging that the glowing blade be kept from him, and thats what Steele planned to do. He had come here to kill a vampire, and now found himself defending one.

Suddenly, the King sheathed his blade, seemingly realizing that it was the cause of Kain's extreme anguish. This was not the act of a killer, so Steele whispered quietly into his comm-link.

"Stand down, Rafe...just a false alarm. Good reflexes, son." Steele looked at the King briefly, but both men knew no apologies were necessary: they were both men of action. Steele walked over to Kain, who seemed to be recovering from the pain he had been in, and waited while he stood up slowly. It would have been an insult to help the noble vampire, so Steele waited patiently.

"Kain...please: I don't have all the answers right now. My team and I need time to find out exactly who and what we're dealing with, and right now, all we know is that it involves you." Steele paused, seeing that Kain was still getting his bearings.

"If your own possible death is of no consequence to you, then we have nothing further to discuss. I'll simply tell my employer that I could not complete the contract...and they'll probably just hire someone else to do so." He waited, guaging the vampires reaction. There was none at this point.

"If you would like to find out WHO wants you dead, and WHY...then maybe you and I need to work together."

Turquine approached and glanced back at Lauralin before turning to Steele. "A plot?" he said then looked at Steele "based on my on daughter's stance I would say they are not particularly involved in what is going on out here," he told him as he tapped his head. "And for future reference, I am a Holy Knight, Sir, I do not strike people from behind or through surprise, I challenge them to combat on the field of honor."

Kain watched as he could do nothing as Steele protected him. Why the hell is he protecting me Kain thought with some curiousity and frustration strangely. He did not like being protected like this, it was most strange and alien. Sure, he had required help from his closer allies in times of need, but this Steele seemed insistant on helping him from these invisiable plotters.

"So you were....sent to kill me.....by whom Steele? And....with that equipment....you could have....at least given me a sprint for my money....was it given to you....by your employers...or is...is it yours?" Kain said with a slight smile, using the expression slightly incorrectly. His eyes seemed to lose that fire that they had just had....dying down to the cold embers of calmness and patience. There were few things which sent Kain into a fury, and honor was one of them.

It was obvious that he was still recovering from the blade's effects upon him. He got up completely, supporting himself with a tree. His skin was now back to it's original green hue, without the magical blue glowing defence that Kain had aquired.

"Well, at least your asking some questions now...who? Damn fine question." Steele was still scanning for danger, but it seemed to have passed with the sheathing of the Kings sword.

"I don't know who: we received the contract through our regular channels, and the money was deposited in our accounts. My team is now following the paper trail, trying to find out who sponsored the hit." Steele paused to look at the vampire...he was slowly recovering, and the strength was flowing back into him. He seemed confused and...embarassed at the thought of being helped by a human, a human that had come here for the express purpose of ending Kains life.

"Why do I care? I'll be honest...it ain't about you. If I thought for a moment that this was righteous hit, you'd be a pile of ashes already. I don't: there are too many unanswered questions right now. Do I have proof? No. All I have is a feeling, a hunch based on my experience." the big security guard cointinued on.

"For some strange reason...you don't FEEL like the bad guy. I listen to my feelings...and I don't kill good guys." Steele stared at the vampire intently.

Seeing that Kain was calming himself Lauralin summoned the dark knight to her. After incorporating itself she withdrew from his mind and opened her eyes, looking around to take in the situation. Though curious about this plot she would not leave the Princess waiting and approached her father. "I would speak with you later Steele" she said to him "and perhaps you as well" she said addressing Kain "I believe this situation would be of great interest to me."

"One of these days your feelings are going to be wrong I think....but if you have not realised, I cannot be killed in the conventional way due to my nature...although that device you have certainly would have hurt me if you managed to hit me." Kain said with a slight smile as he looked at the sheaved blade in certain respect for the weapon.

"What is that sword Sir Turquine? I can tell that it is highly potent against demons. A holy weapon? And yes I would be interested in meeting you two again..." Kain asked curious as to what caused him to become as weak as he had been.

"I'll ask WHY later, m'Lady" said Steele, bowing to her briskly and returning his hard gaze to Shentavo. He still didn't trust the redhaired Elf and her sword-wielding father completely. The vampire seemed to be considering the Kings weapon more than Steeles words.

"One of these days your feelings are going to be wrong I think....but if you have not realised, I cannot be killed in the conventional way due to my nature...although that device you have certainly would have hurt me if you managed to hit me." Kain said with a slight smile as he looked at the sheaved blade in certain respect for the weapon.

"What is that sword Sir Turquine? I can tell that it is highly potent against demons. A holy weapon? And yes I would be interested in meeting you two again..." Kain asked curious as to what caused him to become as weak as he had been.

(OOC Quoted for notification)

"In my order," Turqiune replied to Kain, "this blade has been passed from one chosen knight to the next for millenia. It was forged by the gods to protect the world from undead and demons in a time before the...." he looked over at Lauralin who took up the history. "Before the veil, as we call it, was placed between our lands and the abyss, demons came and went, often using undead as minions. The sword was forged for what were then called Mabden, now called men, specifically humans as the other races had thier own ways of dealing with the creatures. It was passed from one aviatar to the next. Largely of use for little more than a razor sharp sword since the veil between the lands were put in place it is still a potent weapon against undead and on demons on the rare occasion they penetrate the veil."
She turned to Steele and smiled. "It would seem that your information about me is incomplete." With that simple statement she turned and walked inside, returning to the Princess.

There was no way the vampire was ever going to understand, or for that matter, care. Steele looked at him in exasperation, pulling a cheroot from his coat and lighting it. He puffed a few times, and regarded Kain once again. Before he could speak, Rafes voice rang in his ear.

"Sir, that was....spectacular. Thanks for getting so close to the blood-sucker, we scanned him real good...modding exo-upload to account for differences from standards. Boss, Tanis popped us some good intel on the two Elves...that girl has been busy!" Steele could hear the enthusiasm in the young man's voice, and remembered briefly what it was to be a hormonal teen.

He faced Shentavo, all pretense dropped. "It's your life, Kain. Do as you will with it." Steele turned his back on the vampire, an unwise move at the best of times. He had enough...if Shentavo could not see the danger, or worse yet, chose to do nothing at all...there was nothing else he could do for him. Steele wondered idly what had caused Kain to reject his humanity so fully that he no longer cared if he lived or died...or if he had friends.

Darius Steele was a businessman, and there was nothing business like in his actions. He willingly voided a contract, losing the fee as well as having to pay a substantial penalty. He was now spending other resources researching the various players at the party, investigating the real source of the contract and analyzing reams of data regarding the current political situations of the assorted Vampire Nations and their allies. The real question that stood out was WHY exactly was Steele doing this to himself?

The answer was easy, because it was the same answer every time: Honor.

Rafes voice cut into his revery. "Sir, we've done our prelim evals, and we got about 400 different potential winners. Sir, Shentavo has made a LOT of enemies, and Berry has come up with a lot of wack theories on who has what to gain..." Berry was the name of the AI controlling the data flow.

"Patch it in, download the highlights and do it fast. Get Berry to work overtime boyo...I think the WHY will tell us the WHO." Steele leaned back against a tree out of the eyes of the casual observer, and began reviewing the current information. He relit his cigar, and saw that Kain was still speaking with the King.

"What exactly are you searching for Steele with your organisation? What questions are you asking to find who wants me dead? There are rather a few, espcially the notable addition of Mephistophilies." Kain said with something of a smirk and pride that he had managed to piss of a god.

Whiptail eyes Kain suspiciously...

"Inner peace... There will be no more violence here, this is not the place or the time... You have more control than to let a single word set you off. We have a saying among my kind: Water doesn't cling to the back of the Duck. Be like the Duck's back..."

The hunter's right hand rested on the hilt of his saber...

"I will stay close in the event of trouble... Feel free to summon me. Now, I must check on Not-Dekker, he seems to be having some trouble with the security detail... I have yet to meet the princess & thank her for such a gathering."

Whiptail bowed slightly as he took his leave of Kain, slipping through the crowd...

Turquine looked at Kain and seemed to fight some inner struggle before he spoke, "What is happening?", he asked, "I do not have my daughters gift of the mind. Something is troubling her about this and I would like to know what it is."

DragonsReach:

Aiwyn smiles, blushing at Buccanah’s compliments. “You flatter me, Your Majesty, I am sure.” Nonetheless, she curtsies deeply before turning once more to the daughter. “You are a queen, and of a people not dissimilar to my own. The population of your nation is hardly the issue. Besides, my empire is not itself so large.”

When Turquine tries to push her towards the guards, Aiwyn jerks away, her form surrounded by a flare of commanding rage, her eyes glowing with a fierce red fire. “I shall give the orders in my own household, sir!”

Reformed Velmora, Gawdly:

The guard, towering blue trolls, move between everyone within a minute or two. Their chief reaches for the huge battleaxe, of a silver like mineral that is not silver, before Aiwyn slides out from behind, putting a hand to his arm. The guard nods and lowers his arm from his weapon before she shoulders past her guards, speaking to Kain and Steele. If she is intimidated by Kain’s supernatural powers or Steele’s technology, she doesn’t show it. “Whatever the difficulties between yourselves or your people, I would thank you not to handle them on our soil. I respectively ask the both of you to remove your dispute from Imperial territory within six hours. It would be unseemly to continue the ball proper after such disruption. I know many of you are here on diplomatic business for your nations or personal business with regard to my own…future. Any with such business remaining may stay as our guest and see my mother or myself, respectively.” She then returns her gaze to Lauralin and her father. “Forgive me if I seemed curt, but being shielded from personal danger in such a manner is considered an insult in my House. It is the tradition of the Imperial Family to personally ride in the front of our armies charges . One cannot ask one’s people to risk their lives at one’s orders, if one’s own life is always protected from those same dangers.”

Lauralin smiles at Aiwyns words as Turqiune bows to the Princess. "I beg forgiveness of you, Lady. I reacted without thinking. I, myself, believe in leading from the front as does, I'm sure you can see, my daughter. I would ask your leave to stay at your ceremony, if my actions or dress have not offended."

Lauralin too steps forward, "I would ask to stay as well. Our region being new it is my intent to open negotiations and would ask to remain as a gesture of goodwill in the hopes we might open a dialouge in the near future."

Whiptail slips into the greeting line for the princess...

All he could remember was her voice, melodic yet commanding. He found himself on one knee, bowing his head in Princess Aiwyn's direction. He spoke quickly, not wanting to incur her wrath, yet willing to take the risk just to hear her voice once again.

"Deepest apologies to You and Your House, m'Lady. I believe that both Mr.Shentavo and I have concluded business, and I can assure you there will be no further disruptions." Steele paused, and ventured a quick glance at the Princess.

She did not look amused.

"I beg Your forgiveness, Majesty, and pray you will grant me the opportunity to show my true worth." Steele felt chastened by her glare, and somewhat angry he had let this Kain business get in the way of the other reason he was here.

Princess Aiwyn took his breath away.

Mercenary Soldiers:

Two troll guards walk politely, yet firmly, up to Jackson. The biggest one, a nine foot tall, armed and armored, blue, muscular warrior with large horns coming from his forehead, speaks. “You can’t take the firearms in there, sir, sorry.”


Jack looks the creature up & down...

"Damn... You're one big-ass Popeye's chicken-eatin' motherfucker, ain't ya?"

He felt somewhat cheated... People around him had swords on their hips, yet he had to relinquish his .40 caliber...

"Aight..."

The mercenary draws the handgun, ejecting the magazine & the round in the chamber at the same time, catching the clip with his left foot. The USP goes back into the waistband of his pants, at the small of his back...

"Those things are expensive..."

Jack jerks his left foot up slightly, sending the magazine into his open right hand...

"You can have this... That work?"

He hands the magazine to the troll-bouncer...

OOC: I've been at school, so this post is starting where my last post left off.

IC:
Lord Draconis had been talking in a friendly manner with Lady Tatiana when he sensed something happening just inside. Kain seemed to be channeling a great deal of arcane energy.
"I regret that we couldn't speak longer, but something has come to my attention. Perhaps we will meet again."
With this, Draconis quickly slipped away, remotely observing the events inside. As Kain and Steele moved into his field of view, he was puzzled by Steele's behavior. The human seemed to be intentionally aggravating Kain. Draconis knew Steele was rather impulsive, but this was absurd. Steele must be planning something, the elf thought to himself.

Then, without warning, Kain underwent a rather dramatic change. The vampire was surrounded by a glowing aura and was floating off the floor. Lord Draconis jumped out of the shadows as the vampire began to shout at Steele, his mithril saber arcing with dark lightning. Seeing Steele flying through the air, the elf's eyes burned with blue flame as he prepared to deflect a mental attack. Not really knowing who was fighting whom, he quickly returned his sword to its sheath. Feeling rather foolish, Draconis realized that there wasn't anyone here he would actually use the blade on. As Princess Aiwyn approached, he regained his previously icy calm appearance, knowing no one would try anything with her present.
"I appologize if anyone was alarmed by my sword, I drew it as a matter of habbit." Draconis said, bowing to the princess. The blue flames around him vanished as he said this.

Noticing the troll disarming Jack, he walked towards the security desk.
"It has come to my attention that guns are prohibited at this event."
Withdrawing a pair of expertly crafted automatic pistols, he handed the mto the security officer.
"Take good care of these, they are priceless."

A tall, feral feline with a long, flowing silver mane, piercing blue eyes, and white fur bearing the mark of a blue dragon on her left breast saunters toward the gate demanding entrance. Her solitary, ornamented scabbard holds an elvin-tempered silvered nodachi. Upon retiring a spiked shield, she grazes the guard's cheek with a single claw.

Invitation please, madam, announces the guard.

"I'll show you my invitation", breathing heavily into his ear and drawing her sword. She pierces a gaze at the guard, running the finely sharpened instrument down his throat. "Step aside, my good chap, or I'll run you through".

Through a breath barely audible the guard gulps and moves aside. "Yes, madam".

With that she saunters toward the lobby, hearing the guard mumbling under his breath. "Catfolk, he mutters."

Lowering the hood of her midnight-blue silk hooded-cloak, she motions the cloak attendant off with the wave of her hand.

Scanning the room, she sees the bar and makes her way through the crowd. Upon taking a seat, her feline senses detect an odor making the hair on her neck tingle. She sniffs the air and orders champaign.

DragonsReach:

Aiwyn simply smiles reassuringly at both of them. “You were only trying to be helpful. You are both more than welcome to remain our guests.”

Mercenary Soldiers:

The troll puts the weapon aside. “Yes, that works.”

Akaton:

Aiwyn nods to Draconis. “You did not offend.” The guard takes the weapons., nodding deeply to his request to keep them safe.

Gawdly:

Aiwyn looks at Steele harshly for a long moment before nodding faintly. “I gather that you and Mr. Shentavo are both men of honor. If both of you will swear on your honor as warriors that you will not again do violence within our borders unless subject to a direct assault upon your person, then I shall allow you to remain until your business is done.”

A Perfect World:

The guard is not demanding swords so this doesn‘t come up. However, whatever the effect on humans might be, a troll certainly will not back down from doing their duty, however intimidated, nor is a trained, superhumanly strong, nine foot tall, horned,

Almost simultaneously Turquine bows and Lauralin curtseys and says "Thank you, (gracious (Turquine) kind (Lauralin)) Lady." and take up a postion near the Princess, though allowing sufficient room so as not to make the guards nervous.

Aiwyn nods, looking over the crowd. She watches Kain and Steele, awaiting their answers.

Draconis turned back to Aiwyn, glad she wasn't offended.
"I don't believe I've had the chance to thank you for inviting me."
Quietly murmuring a simple incantation, a point of golden fire appeared, tracing the form of a rose. Draconis plucked it from the ether and offered it to Princess Aiwyn.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, princess."
Draconis was far from his usual grim self, surprised that he was attracted to the princess. He admitted that she did have a certain charm, but he reminded himself that he wasn't here to find romance.

"No problem. I am leaving now in any case." Kain said, and walked off slowly.

Steele, contact me if you wish to continue our little chat on who is trying to kill me. Kain spoke mentally.

Kain walked away....some time later forming to mist and returning to whence he came.

His back was beginning to stiffen up from bowing, so Steele slowly raised himself to an erect position. He could hear his lower vertebrae sing their thanks.

"On my honor, you have my word that I shall keep the peace. I thank the Royal House for granting me this boon."

Steele watched as the Princess began to move with her entourage back towards the ballroom. Shentavo stood still, eyes flicking from the Princess to Steele. He knew the vampire and he had unfinished business, but he would respect Aiwyn's wishes...for now.

Rafe's voice cut into his thoughts, and Steele ducked into a darkened corner to take the call.

"Sir, I think this is a good time to talk about my raise." Steele could almost hear the smirk in his young lieutenants voice.

"What do you got for me, Rafe?" he replied, iron in his voice warning Rafe that Steele was not in the mood for jokes.

"Sorry boss...ok, we traced the hit contract back through the original sponsors, who of course were fronting the operations for the Attuma Corp., who knew nothing because they were fronting for DerCon Inc., who had fronted for...well, you get the idea."

"Ok, so why should I give you a raise?" asked Steele, wondering where this was going.

"Well sir...we eventually found the name of the person who originally called for the hit...a Miss Valerie Morra."

The name was familiar to Steele, but he did not know why.

"Of course, the database didn't come with any info on her...so we figgered the name was fake. Berry did some acrobatics, and we think we have an idea of who wanted the vampire dead." Rafe paused, as if in triumph. Steele waited patiently.

"Think about it, boss: Valerie Morra?? Val Morra? Hint-frickin-hint??"

Steele was stunned, for the answer was simple and obvious.

Velmora.

(Gawdly, don't you have MSN or AIM so I can contact you? It would help me a lot so we can organise this a bit better, what you had in mind and such. Just so it flows.)

<<OOC: I don't use chat programs really, but we can talk through telegrams.

I'm just trying to find the time to read through all the Kain stuff in other threads so I can lead my part of the story in a sensible direction. Just to give you the BIG picture of what I'm thinking - someone, somewhere, for whatever reason, believes Shentavo is the key to uniting the Vampire nations under one flag, which could lead to a massive, inter-galactic power struggle and maybe even war with the humans and other races. A united Vampire alliance would be a scary thing.This person wants Shentavo dead to prevent it from happening.

I may need to start a whole new thread though, as the party is about to start here, and I can really use a drink!>>

(OOC Holy snap, big ideas eh? Kain with shitloads of power.....I could get used to that idea.....yeah.......:D You should get AIM/MSN so you can contact me though IMs, it would help out SO much. Plus, you can contact other players who know stuff about Kain, like Arithon. I am not going to give you the infomation on a silver platter :) )

<<OOC: Oh sure, make me work!

Honestly, Kain fascinates me. Yup, I can see him like the Aragorn of the Vampire world...

My email is kanuck_korner@hotmail.com. I'll download Messenger tonight, and we can try and plan things a bit. >>

SORRY FOR THE HIJACK FOLKS! BACK TO THE PARTY!!!

(OOC Yeah, Kain has collected something of a fan base...amazing to me really. But I am out of this thread, but freinds have been made )

Lauralin watched Kain leave then turned back to await the Princess, eyeing Steele with an amused look.

Whiptail nodded in satisfaction...

'That is dealt with...'

It seemed he was close to greeting the Princess now. Whiptail had not come as a potential groom, but as a political representative of his homeland...

The Dark Argonian bowed deeply, his cape flowing over his shoulders as he did so...

"Princess... It is indeed a fine honor to meet you... I am known as Whiptail, of the Longtail family. I offer the services of my personage to you & your people. May the relations between our two races remain strong for many years..."

Rafe was repeating old news:

"Sir, target prime has blipped...he's gone off our screens."

Steele had just seen Kain Shentavo suddenly vanish, leaving in the eldritch and arcane style that was the vampire trademark. The message Kain sent was clear, and shocking: Steele and he would probably meet again, and Kain pierced Steeles mental-wall as if it were wet paper. He knew he would have to find a solution to the latter situation before he crossed paths with Shentavo again.

In the meantime, he was just mad, frustrated and mighty thirsty. He saw Lauralin watching him with a hint of amusement in her eye. Plastering a passable smile on his face, he nodded towards the ballroom.

"I would love to speak further with you, but my throat is somewhat parched...care to join me inside for a drink or six?" Steele smiled, sensing the redheaded Elf had a sense of humor.

Jack slipped in line behind Whiptail...

Unlike the lizard-man, he was looking for a wife...

Lauralin glanced her father who nodded to her, "I'll get you when the Princess has finished with this mess." Turning to Steele she nodded to toward the Ballroom, "Let us have a word then shall we? We know each other for what we are, no point in being coy. Unless you would prefer a game of words." she said with smile on her face.

Turquine looked at Steele, "I wouldn't, she has a tendency of winning."

Akaton:

Aiwyn takes the flower, smiling gently at Draconis. “It is quite alright. I trust I shall see you shortly.”

Wandering Argonians:

Aiwyn grins. “Welcome, Whiptail, on behalf of my people.”

All:

Aiwyn looks over everyone. “I shall be in my sitting room. If you need to speak with myself or my mother, please let Lady Tatiana know.” And she walks back inside at that.

Turquine turned to follow the Princess as she headed inside as Lauralin turned to him. "I shall be there shortly, father, I would like to discuss this situation with Mr. Steele."
He continued to follow the Princess, his eyes scanning the area as he replied, "I'll inform your forces at home".
'I know that tone well enough to know your getting into trouble again' he mumbled, as low as his deep rumbling voice would allow.

Aiwyn looks over to Turquine, arching a brow faintly and pausing in her step. Her eyes look immensely tired suddenly.

Aiwyn takes the flower, smiling gently at Draconis. “It is quite alright. I trust I shall see you shortly.”
Draconis stepped aside as Aiwyn gracefully exited the ballroom. As she passed, he sensed something strange from the princess. He felt that perhaps there was more to her than meets the eye. Quickly dismissing the thought, he replied,
"Well then, I will make a point of finding you later this evening."
as she walked past, he added,
"I wouldn't miss it for the world."

Turquine looks at the Princess as he catches her look. "My Lady are you all well?"

At his question Lauralin places a gloved hand on Steele's arm as she looks over with concern evident on her face.

Steele liked the feel of Lauralin's strong hand on his arm. He didn't like the fact that her proximity was causing him to forget he was a warrior, and remember very vividly that he was a man. He smiled at her warmly.

"M'Lady, speaking honestly and openly will be a pleasure after what I have gone through with our dearly departed green friend, Mr.Shentavo."

They walked arm in arm towards the ballroom, when Lauralins mood changed suddenly. She was looking towards Princess Aiwyn and her father King Turquine, and concern was clouding her face. Steele scanned the perimeter, always looking for threats, but saw none. This seemed to be a problem that only the Elves could recognize, so Steele did what he did best:

"Do what you must now: see to the Princess. I will watch your back."

Not knowing if this was the prelude to an attack, Steele imposed his big form between Aiwyn, Lauralin and the party. Anyone wanting to do harm to Lauralin would have to go through him first.

He stopped suddenly, realizing his only concern was for the beautiful, redheaded Elf Lauralin.

Lauralin caught Steele's look and shook her head. "No," she said, "let us speak. Father knows my reasons for being here, he can address our issue with the Princess. I am needed only for specifics and only of we open a dialogue."
She curtseyed to Aiwyn politely, "I shall be honored to speak with you, in the mean time father will address our issues. At least you will have the pleasure of not have to deal with diplomatic bandying of words, father is straight forward" she said as she smiled.

Her voice was all sugar and iron, and Darius was fascinated by the way her bright, full lips formed every word. The couple left Torquine and the Princess to themselves, and re-entered the ballroom.

<<OOC: Boss on my ass, will continue later!!>>

When they entered the ballroom Lauralin found a place where they could both watch all the entrances and exits. The action had become a habit to her that she did without thought she took a seat then waiting for Steele to order drinks before going on. Once they arrived, though she didn't drink, she slid her right forefinger around the rim of the glass as she looked at him and spoke.

"I have vested interest in this situation as I am sure you know. Though you would have no reason and I am sure you do not trust me, nor do I blame you considering your particular speciality even within your field, I would appreciate anything you can tell me. I might even be able to help you."

Aiwyn shakes her head to Turquine a little. "No, nothing. Lady Tatiana will show you in shortly." And, at that, she disappears into the back halls, presumably towards her sitting room.

Turqine bows politely as the Princess leaves and stands where he's left awaiting Tatiana's permision to see the Princess.

(PS to Steele. As she sits down she releases the staff in her hand and it stands upright of it's own accord.)

While Draconis awaited the return of Princess Aiwyn, he got himself another drink. Heading back outside, he admired the peacefulness of this place. Deep in thought, he stared at the setting sun. It had been centuries since he had last seen the pure beauty of a sunset. Too long, he thought silently. He loved his country, but thought that perhaps too much had been sacrificed in the name of progress. His thoughts wandered back to the princess. She was quite unlike anyone he had ever met. Draconis began to reconsider his decision not to seek to marry her. After all, he thought to himself, what's the use of being immortal if you spend all eternity alone.

For those wondering, Akaton looks something like this:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v379/DraconisX13/Akaton.jpg

Lady Tatiana glances around, waiting to see who requests the arrangement of a meeting first.

Turquine glances about, then down at himself. Decided that there was nothing about his attire that he could do now he steps forward and bow respectfully to Tatiana. "My daughter and I would be honored to speak on behalf of our respective nations and for our region. She is just inside and awaits only word from me that all is prepared."

Before they could walk away....a sudden noise arises from outside the hall.
All, including the princess exit to see what the comotion is all about. They witness a stretch Escalade Stop right in front of the building. The door opens and suddenly the Bass from the 45 inch subwoofers within blow everyone back a few steps. Out of the limo emerges the most handsome man the princess has ever seen. A whisper arises from the crowd...wondering who the stranger could be. The rumor spreads that the fellow is from a small nation from a floating island above the Pacific region...rumor has it that he hails from a nation called Davidoria.
The fellow steps forward in his mint condition white Air Force Ones, he removes his aviator sunglasses and kneels before the princess. He takes her hand and kisses it gently.
" Your Highness...I am Prince Daveed IV, but my homies call me D-Hizzle...I've come for your hand in marriage you hot, sexy thing."

Lord Draconis had been really starting to enjoy this party when a foul noise came from the parking lot.
"What in the hell?" he said to himself, turning to see the cause of the sound.
A large wheeled vehicle pulled up in front of the building, loud music coming from the open door. Some prince from a nation he had never heard stepped out. Walking right up to Aiwyn, the prince asked her to marry him. Draconis was disgusted by his behavior.
"Primitive human," the elf muttered, turning around and walking back inside.

Turquine turned and headed around front as he heard the sound. He was not one to question the sovreign rights of other nations but he questioned the wisdom of having an orc war party attend this ceremony. As he came around he saw a motor coach pull up out front. Although he has such things now he couldn't remember any of them making such an awful noise. As the door opened and a man stepped out Turquine returned to the gardens, satisfied that an invasion of an orc nation had not gotten underway.


(OOC - By the way, I believe the Princess is inside, unless she comes out to investigate the noise.)

Steele heard the noise, and identified it as a non-threat. Rafe's voice cut into his thoughts.

"Sir, we have an alert, Dweeb-level threat...sir, at first glance he looks like a native of Wigger, but we can't be sure. All we do know sir, is that he IS pretty fly for a white guy."

Steele didn't have time for stupidity. He was pretty sure that the noisemaker would be explaining himself to the 9 ft, blue guards very soon. If he continued to be a pest, Steele had many ways to swat flies.

He turned to Lauralin. "Apologies, but it seems that this party just keeps attracting the strangest visitors...at least this one MAY provide some comedic relief." Steele ordered himself another drink, indicating to the bartender that he should refill the redheaded Elf's glass as well.

Lauralin turned her head well before Steele could have possibly heard the noise. 'Orcs', she thought with some confusion, 'surely they would not dare to attack a house of Royalty, not without taking down all thier support.' She glanced about her looking for other reactions and at Steele's words relaxed. He seemed to know what was going on here and he was comfortable. When he told the waiter to refill her glass she simply held up the untouched glass and said "I am quite fine with this one, thank you."

She looked at Steele again and tilted her head slightly. "Have you a familiar?"

"Well...I guess you could say so, but mine is technological, not mystical." Steele replied, smiling slightly at the question. "I am in constant contact with my people, who relay important information to me...such as the arrival of the noisy visitor."

Steele paused, sipping at his drink. He wondered how much this beautiful Elf already knew, and what angle she was trying to play. He considered, then rejected, the idea that she may be interested in HIM...after all, she was an Elfling Princess, and Elves usually stuck to their own. She also seemed to be very interested in the vampire Shentavo, which set off warning bells in Steeles head. He decided to hold his cards close to his chest.

"So...how do you know Kain Shentavo?" asked Steele, as innocently as possible.

"I have never met him. We only recently opened our borders. My High Advisor told me I should come here when the invitation arrived even though I thought myself woefully unprepared. I had studied this common international regional language for only three weeks and have difficulties with it still." Lauralin's left eyebrow lifted inquisitively, "You do not know about me do you?"

He knew much more than he was ready to reveal. Steele smiled innocently and replied to the gorgeous Elf:

"Not as much as I wish to know...please enlighten me."

"This is not a matter of jest Mr. Steele" she said, her musical voice hardening into the defenders leader that he would expect. She sat back, obviously weighing things in her mind. She knew he was a hunter and, it seemed, that he focused on vampires, a dangerous profession at best. The question now was not if he trusted her but if she could trust him. She looked at him and considered probing but rejected the idea almost immediatly, angry at herself for even considering such an intrusion. If she was to find out what was happening, and therefore work with him as he seemed intent on stopping any vampire rising, then she had to trust him. She had to tell him the truth, and yet that very truth could place him against her. Finally she made her decision and asked "Have you heard of the undead war that occured in my region approximitely three years ago?"

Steele wondered where he went wrong, for a coolness settled on the conversation, and Lauralin seemed somewhat perturbed. He vowed not to let his "man feelings" get in the way of business. That vow was doomed to failure, because Steele kept finding himself getting lost in the redheaded Elf's eyes.

"While I am aware that there were some problems in that area, I never received the whole story. It IS a big universe, after all. I would be fascinated to hear it from you." and watch your lips move, thought Steele. He checked his mental blocks to make sure they were up, and was dismayed to find that they were not. This girl...woman...was really getting to him, so much so that he let his concentration slip and exposed his mind to her. He forcibly slammed his block back into place.

"I believe in fair exchange: you tell me your story, and I'll tell you mine."

Lauralin sat back, having decided she was not one to second guess herself. As she spoke her eyes took on a distant look and her voice dropped, becoming saddened as she went.

"One hundred and four years ago a Demon Lord known as Orcus tried to take my father's kingdom. Father fought him, he is a Holy Knight, if you know what they are, and father won, at least on this plane. A demon cannot be truly beaten unless it is beaten on it's home plane in the abyss. Orcus, needless to say, was rather upset with defeat by a mortal and three years ago returned for his vengeance.
He had occupied an area in the Skullkingdom, then known as the Northern Empire, and raised a force of undead. He launched his attacks against that Kingdom and father knew immediatly what Orcus was doing. Every man, woman and child who fell defending the Northern Empire bacame another soldier for Orcus' army, thus making it stronger. Father pleaded with his rival to allow him to send aid but was rebuffed every time, and so father stood with his forces on the border waiting to join the fray or defend his nation.
I took the defenders deep into the Empire and located Orcus fortress. Try as we might we could find no way in. Every way was physically or magically barred except the main entrance which was constantly guarded, therefore only undead or prisoners could enter.
Father was prepared to pay with his life to protect his people but we both knew that the price was not enough. Orcus' army had become to strong even for father's vast military. But there was a solution. Not one that my people liked, which was why I did not inform them of it until after it was done, my especially a holy knight like my father."
Lauralin began removing the glove of her left hand, "You see, Mr. Steele I had a choice. Stand by and watch thousands die and watch my father's kingdom which he had spent over two hundred years caring for fall, or stop Orcus in the only way I had available. So although my father was willing sell his life for his victory I knew I had to go further in order to destroy Orcus."
The sleeves of the light blue dress that so accented her flame red hair ended halfway down her forearm. The silken glove overlapped it to the elbow, hiding the arm and long fingered, delicate looking hand that was as pale as her face. On the middle finger was a simple golden band etched with magical runes. On the ring finger was a set of platinum rings set with diamonds, interlocked with each other.
"For me it was no choice at all. I could not allow so many to die if I could stop it." She reached forward placing her hand on top of his and squeezing, not enough to hurt, but enough for him to realized that this thin and delicate looking woman had a strength that was equal to, if not greater than his own. As her skin contacted his he would realize that..........her skin was chill to the touch, like that of a corpse. "So I had a vampire with whom I had worked with make me one like herself. I sold my soul to allow me the ability to pass the entrance with my group in guise of prisoners."
She glanced around and sat back, putting her glove back on. "I became the abomination you see before you," she said and then looked up and stared Steele in the eye challengingly, "but I BEAT him."

The abomination was...beautiful. Steele had lost himself in her words, her lyrical voice weaving a tale so fantastic, yet so very real. She was a true warrior, a soul filled with nobility, bravery and self-sacrifice…and the sacrifice she made was life-altering and mind bending: she had become that which she must destroy…a Vampire. Steele was surprised that he wasn’t bothered by that fact, except to feel sadness for the young Elfling who had given so much for her people. Under normal circumstances, vampires and Steele were not the best of friends, but these were very unusual circumstances.

He felt her touch…strong, confident, yet so very cold. Steele was warmed by the intensity of her gaze, and the heartfelt honesty of her words. She had opened herself to him, and he could do no less.

“You…you are…I’m sorry, but your story has moved me, and I’m not used to being…well, MOVED.” Steele was not a man to show tender emotions, though he was no stranger to showing stronger ones. He looked squarely at Lauralin, one equal to another, and let his mental-block dissipates, rendering Steele very vulnerable to the redheaded Elf.

“My story is not as noble, but it will bring us to today. It will be faster and easier if you just take it from me…I…I grant you access to my mind.” Steele waited for the touch of her mind.

Strangely, he felt…anticipation.

Lauralin hesitated. She was no stranger to reading minds and in fact had been taught how to tear them from an unwilling mind. This she had never done. She was repulsed by the idea of reading an unshielded mind without permission let alone taking the thoughts by force. But this was an invited contact and she carefully slipped in. Slowly at first, getting the orginization of the mind. Once familiar with how he thought she allowed herself access only to past memories leaving emotions and sensitive areas from her probe. She would not take the information she sought from him, he would give it willingly or not at all.

He lost his mind to a tentative touch.

He could feel her near him, in him, of him: she was all that he was, and Steele was content. He watched the images play out before him, before her, complicated tapestries of memories flooding them, floating them, together, apart.

PAST:
Steele is a young man, a big man. He fights many battles, sometimes losing, usually winning, always hurting. The pain is not just physical: a reluctant warrior?

Steele is older, a leader of men, watching them die, part of him dying too.

EXPLOSION

White light. Doctors. Steele is meat. Blessed black.

Blinding, screaming, bleeding PAIN. Image is blurred, yet faces observe Steele. A strange voice mutters “…ya, that’s IF his system doesn’t reject it…”

She is quite lovely. We call her “Nurse”. Steele feel’s safe. He sleeps. He dreams.

He screams. He lives. He is more than he was before. He is less than he was before. He is unique. There would be no more. They promised.

He laughs. He runs faster than you, and he doesn’t break a sweat. He breaks bricks with his hands. Doctors write notes.

LATER:

Steele is feared. He is a weapon. Blood is everywhere, staining his soul. He is not who he is. He is a puppet.

Friend. Plural. The weapon finds his true self. The strings are cut. The future bright.

Dead Friend. Plural. The puppet-master objects. Examples are made. Steele is alone.

Regret. Remorse. Realization. Revenge. Redemption.

MUCH LATER:

Stability. Freedom. The boy is now a man. The man has a business. The man is Steele.

Hero. Hire. Helping those who can’t help themselves. Noble, yet strategic. Business is good.

Love. A girl becomes a wife. A wife becomes a mother. A father has a son. Life is a rainbow.

Timing. It’s all about timing. Mother & Son. Wrong place. Wrong time. Wrong.

Fangs. Blood. Fangs. Blood. Fangs. Blood. Fangs. Black.

NOW:

Steele is a Hunter. They are the Prey. Sometimes they switch roles. Both do an excellent job.

A contract is offered. A target is given. The target is Kain. Steele signs his name.

Elegance in an envelope. An Invitation for Love. A Ball for a Princess. Aiwyn.

Confusion. Madness. Kain. Respect. Kain. Target. Kain. Why Kain?

Voices. Call him Rafe. Rafe speaks of apocolypse. Steele listens.

Green skin. Dead eyes filled with fire. Soul. Passion. Anger. Destiny.

Kain didn’t listen. He won’t listen. He cannot believe. He will not believe. He is gone.

Color. Light. Music. Warmth. Softness. Heat. Intimacy. Passion. Lauralin.

By sheer force of will, Steele pulled himself away from Lauralin’s mind, hastily erecting his flimsy mind-shield. There were certain things that were better left…unprobed. Trying to gain his bearings was an adventure, and he reached for his drink with a slightly unsteady hand.

“I guess we understand each other a little better now.”

Returning to the commotion outside, the new fellow was still holding the princesses hand (meaning that she had gone out to investigate the noise). Soon, the stranger is met with three arms guards. In a very calm voice, the new fellow says,
"Gentlemen, I've come only for the festivities, I mean no harm. But if you insist on getting physical..."
The prince snaps his fingers. Suddenly, the armed guards are surrounded by six burly fellos that moved with such speed that the guards had very little time to react and raise their weapons,
"...Then by all means, let's do this biotch."
The princess insists that the guards drop their weapons. Once this is done, the new fellow simply nods his head and his men return to the vehicle. As the last body guard is about to enter the limo, Prince Daveed stops him.
"Rufus, you shall remain with me...I don't want to have to streetsweep these jerks without a playmate."
"Fo shizzle my nizzle." was Rufus' response as he tapped both of his AK-47s on his shoulders.
The princess then insists that he enter the ball and perhaps the two can chat over drinks.
Prince Daveed says, " Aight, but first, I need my piece. Yo Chato! Bring me the semi!"
Soon, a small yet muscular fellow arrives with two glocks.
"Thanks Chato."
"No prob dogg."
" Aight then baby...let's go get our freak on."

Color. Light. Music. Warmth. Softness. Heat. Intimacy. Passion. Lauralin.

Lauralin, she thought as she sipped her own elven wine. She sat gathering her thoughts. Mind probes were not as easy as she made it seem or as others believed. Thoughts..not your own had to find a place to settle. She did as she was taught, creating within her own mind a place for them. Like a library she created a place for Darius' thoughts and stored them tenderly there.

Lauralin, the thought that accidently crossed his mind. 'Why', she thought, 'Why couldn't his technological familiar have been more thorough?' She liked the man. He was noble and honorable. She felt that within him and had seen it already. She hated the idea of having to hurt him. Not the first person she had hoped to call a friend out in this vast world beyond the confines of her region. How could she tell him she was married? Had he not seen the rings on her hand when she removed her glove?

She looked up at him after arranging her thoughts. "I am sorry for your pain." She stopped, searching for the words to express herself in this new tongue as blood tears filled her eyes and rolled down her cheeks. Her own mental shields shattered as her thoughts flooded her mind. 'How could she possibly express her heartfelt sympathy when the heart that beat in her chest was of the same type of monster that had robbed him of the life he knew? Was she any better than they? What made her different from them, if she was different at all? How many times had she struggled these same things? And why was the first person she would meet outside of her own borders to be someone that who would hunt what she had become and even if he were to overcome his hatred to someone that would wish to care about her?

She gasped as suddenly the delicate wine glass was unable to withstand the monstrous strength that was hidden in her frail body. She stood quickly, her mental shields gone, her thoughts in chaos and her feelings of sympathy for his lose tearing at her heart. "I'm sorry", she said again grabbed her staff making her way quickly to the garden.

<<OOC: Davidora...you can't RP for the Princess. She IS still inside until Resurgent Dream (The Princess) says so. Until she responds to your arrival, and I'm sure she will...harshly...consider yourself ignored. While you are waiting, you may want to read some of the FAQ's pinned in these Forums.>>

IC:

Steele watched her go, stunned at the emotion that played across Lauralins face. He wanted to follow her, but something told him that she needed some time alone. Still, it was hard to see her pain, and have no cure. Steele was a fixer, the guy who makes things right, but Lauralins burden was hers alone to carry. He undertood this clearly, because they were very similar in that respect.

They were both monsters in their own minds.

*noise can be heard from outside the dancehall. As it gets closer it sounds like a stampede. Suddenly it stops, a few seconds go by and a deafening sound off is heard. The doors fly open and a small army of men dressed in black tactical gear and a blag gas mask is waiting outside. All of them carry the average swat gear, grenades, knife, flashlight, mp5, and other weapons and gear. The men begin to part down the middle to make room for a man wearing a red hawain shirt, a black trenchcoat, black pants, a black shiny motorcycle helm and black boots. He steps inside the doors and snaps, his men begin flooding inside and surrounding the hall. The man removes his helmet to reveal a shiny white hair, a man near him clears his throat as if he is going to make an announcement.* "Attention: The Holy Empire of Greater Khatzwalt has announced its presence. Sir Maxwell wishes to offer his dowry to the princess."

*noise can be heard from outside the dancehall. As it gets closer it sounds like a stampede. Suddenly it stops, a few seconds go by and a deafening sound off is heard. The doors fly open and a small army of men dressed in black tactical gear and a blag gas mask is waiting outside. All of them carry the average swat gear, grenades, knife, flashlight, mp5, and other weapons and gear. The men begin to part down the middle to make room for a man wearing a red hawain shirt, a black trenchcoat, black pants, a black shiny motorcycle helm and black boots. He steps inside the doors and snaps, his men begin flooding inside and surrounding the hall. The man removes his helmet to reveal a shiny white hair, a man near him clears his throat as if he is going to make an announcement.* "Attention: The Holy Empire of Greater Khatzwalt has announced its presence. Sir Maxwell wishes to offer his dowry to the princess."

<<OOC: Read my post above. Ditto to you.>>

Read my post above. Ditto to you.
what was the problem with my post? I didnt RP for anyone but myself... dont compare me to a n00b like that!

what was the problem with my post? I didnt RP for anyone but myself... dont compare me to a n00b like that!

AHAHAHAHA! what's a noob?

what was the problem with my post? I didnt RP for anyone but myself... dont compare me to a n00b like that!

<<OOC:No offense intended.

You DID RP for Resurgant Dream: you can't truly expect that a heavily armed SWAT team could get anywhere near this Palace? Have You read this thread?? Friend, this place is an ELVEN Nation. Even if by some massively improbable chance you got all those weapons and men past the perimeter security, if you come bursting into one of their palaces, a palace filled with Elves and Vampires, with an armed team...well, I can guarantee you and your team are pretty much dead before Max gets to say word one. Ask yourself...if the President of the United States was having a dinner with diplomats and representatives from around the world...using Max's plan, how far would you get?

SO...that's why I'm ignoring you...for now.>>

President R.L.'s stretch Humvee pulled up to the palace with a jet black Corvette following.

R.L.: Well, this is the place. Better late than never I suppose.

He walks in carrying a bottle of champaigne and an attache case. He was dreesed in an all black suit wearing a gold ring on right index finger. It depicted a gold eagle swooping down upon a serpent, the symbol of RS. Once he steps inside, he walks up to Princess Aiwyn and presents her with the case.

R.L.: I wish to congradulate you on behalf of the Dominion of Ruthless Slaughter. I am President R.L. XX. *he kisses her hand* I hope you find your gifts to your liking.

He opens the case. It contains a set of car keys (the Vette) and 2 billion dollars. He also gives her the champaigne, explaining that it is the best there is, and that it is customary of his people to give such a gift at important events.

What's a noob?
Noobie. New at something. In this case, probably RPing.

Have a nice day :D

Lauralin gathered her thoughts and through sheer force of will reestablished her mental defenses. She then went through the arduous task of removing the glass shards from her hand before wiping the blood from her eyes and cheeks. After composing herself she returned to the table and retook her seat.

"Darius", she said, "as you say I want things understood between us. I am not evil, I think you know that. Not all vampires are, though I would not expect you to stop hunting them." She shrugged and then continued, "I hunt them myself, at least those who would harm innocents, as I would hunt any who would harm the innocent." She reached for the glass of elven wine, only to realize that it lay shattered on the table. "I do not presume friendship, I would not be so bold. But you are a good man, Darius, and I would offer friendship and all that entails. You would be welcome in my nation, in my home. You would find solace there whenever you need it, even your mechanical familiar," she said smiling. Her smile dropped away almost immediatly as she looked at him, "But I have to tell you, and I am sorry, but the thought slipped unbidden into your mind. I am married, Darius." That said she sighed but relaxed and then continued, "Take my friendship or no, as you see fit. But once offered it is not retracted unless you do something to harm me or my people. I would truly love to have you see Kern in the evening. The capital city was raised by elven magic from the crystals of the island in the lake on which the city rests and the refractions of light are truly breathtaking. I think it would do your soul good, as does mine."

Lauralin gathered her thoughts and through sheer force of will reestablished her mental defenses. She then went through the arduous task of removing the glass shards from her hand before wiping the blood from her eyes and cheeks. After composing herself she returned to the table and retook her seat.

"Darius", she said, "as you say I want things understood between us. I am not evil, I think you know that. Not all vampires are, though I would not expect you to stop hunting them." She shrugged and then continued, "I hunt them myself, at least those who would harm innocents, as I would hunt any who would harm the innocent." She reached for the glass of elven wine, only to realize that it lay shattered on the table. I do not presume friendship, I would not be so bold. But you are a good man, Darius, and I would offer friendship and all that entails. You would be welcome in my nation, in my home. You would find solace there whenever you need it, even your mechanical familiar," she said smiling. Her smile dropped away almost immediatly as she looked at him, "But I have to tell you, and I am sorry, but the thought slipped unbidden into your mind. I am married, Darius." That said she sighed but relaxed and then continued, "Take my friendship or no, as you see fit. But once offered it is not retracted unless you do something to harm me or my people. I would truly love to have you see Kern in the evening. The capital city was raised by elven magic from the crystals of the island in the lake on which the city rests and the refractions of light are truly breathtaking. I think it would do your soul good, as does mine."
OOC: Just curious, but where's this taking place?

OOC (Ruthless slaughter - At a table in the ballroom.)

Lord Draconis had been watching Steele and Luaralin intently, determined to understand the red haired elf. He could barely sense anything from her, amazed by her mental discipline. Draconis decided to head back outside to enjoy the cool evening air, unable to hear the conversation or detect their thoughts.

As the burning glow of sunset gave way to the growing dark of early night, Draconis's flowing coat of shadow swept gracefully a few centimeters off the ground. He preferred the peaceful stillness of night, and dressed accordingly. Without warning, the peace was shattered by what could only be described as a tidal wave of thoughts and emotions. Spinning on the spot, he turned to see Luaralin in obvious pain, though with no physical cause. Something had caused her mental shields to fail, what it was he could only guess at. Draconis winced, trying to make sense of a lifetime of regret and sorrow.

As quickly as it had started, Luaralin re-established her mental shield, leaving Draconis little to analyze. However, what was clear was that she had been forced to do something terrible, something she now regretted. Realizing that he himself hid many dark secrets, he didn't dream of judging her for what he had sensed. Returning inside, he began searching for Lady Tatiana wondering when he could get a chance to speak with the princess again.

Lauralin noticed Lord Draconis walk in. She now regretted her outburst even more. Bad enough she had made a fool of herself in front of Darius, but to know that someone else had been evident in the garden made it worse. She had told Ferranifer that she was not ready. These affairs were not her forte. She remembered her interrupted meeting with Draconis, entrigued by his name alone. Dragonsreach, after all was not simply a name chosen at random, it was the place to which dragons went once thier years of wanderlust and power seeking were done. She continued her conversation with Darius as attempted to contact Draconis. 'My Lord' she sent toward his mind, knowing that he had the ability of scanning, perhaps he was telepathic as well.

More guests were arriving, and Steele scanned the crowd, listening to the intel that Rafe fed him continuously. The kid was good, feeding him highlights and distilling the mass of data into streamlined form. The ballroom was slowly filling with richly clad guests, most of which were identified as "idle rich"...Rafe was very colorful in his descriptions of them. A very distinguished looking man came into view, and Steele focussed on the briefcase in his manicured hand. Rafe was ahead of him.

"No worries bossman, we scanned that little beauty on the way in. No threat. We're running the mook now...ok, ID'd as one President R.L. XX. from some place called the Dominion of Ruthless Slaughter...sounds like a happy place." Rafe paused, then came back on-line. "Sir, Tanis thinks she might have some answers as to why our 'employer' wants the blood-sucker Shentavo dead. Boss, she looks really pale." There was silence as Rafe cut the line. Steele was surrounded by party-goers, and did not want to risk being seen talking to himself, so he waited patiently for Rafe to return. He never did. His half-Elf, female, first-mate, friend and sometime lover Tanis did.

"Darius...unless yer slipping a ring on Aiwyn's finger now, I suggest you get yer ass back up here." She paused, and Steele noticed a strange tone in her voice. She was scared. In the 6 years he had known her, he had never seen her scared. This scared Steele. He was about to reply when he saw Lauralin returning, looking fresher than when she left. She began speaking before he had a chance to greet her. When she finished, he realized he was finished as well. Too much was happening, too quickly, and he needed to think.

"M'Lady, again I thank you for your honesty. For the first, all I can say is that the wisdom of years has opened my mind, and the passage of time has softened my edge...I find it easy to call you "friend" and am honored to do so. Yes, it surprises me..but I have learned much tonight." Steele finished his drink, and placed the glass on the table.

"For the second...well, I hope your husband understands what a jewel he has in his hands. I hope to meet him one day, when I visit the crystal towers of Kern..." Steele smiled, the enormity of his pain hidden behind a well-trained mask. They say it doesn't hurt to lose what you never had. They were wrong.

"M'Lady, something has come up and I must take my leave. The situation with Shentavo seem's to have...escalated, and I'm needed on my ship." Steele reached into his pocket, pulling out a small, button-sized disc. He handed it to Lauralin, his hand lightly brushing against hers. His heart collapsed.

"Plug that into any data-reader and you'll have all the info on Shentavo that I do." That was not entirely true, for the disk had not been updated since Steele's arrival at the party. "I'll be in contact with you when I get more."

"That disc is also a homing-device: squeeze it and wait for the cavalry..." Steele smiled, trying to lighten the moment. He failed utterly.

"I...I...listen, you need me, I'll be there, ok?"

Steele didn't wait for her answer, because he needed to escape the wall of agony that was crushing him. He turned away from her, and went towards the large front doors. Despite the fact the place was packed, he moved towards the great doors unimpeded, guests deciding that it was a smart move to get out of the big man's way.

It was.

OOC: Sorry for the delay…again. My computer access should be actually good starting Monday, maybe, I hope.

Dragonsreach: Tatiana nods to Turquine, gesturing lightly to a nearby servant. “Sylvia will show you back.”
Davidoria: ((IGNORE))

Greater Khatzwalt: ((I’m temporarily ignoring this because you wouldn’t be allowed this kind of personal security. Since you weren’t trying to metagame or play anyone else or do anything like that, you’re still welcome to post. Just need to rephrase it with a more realistic personal guard, maybe two honor guards.))

Ruthless Slaughter: ((Again, she’s not in the ballroom currently. Please take some time to catch up on events before posting. People are welcome to come in late but make sure to catch up first.))

Lauralin looked at the disc in her hand. 'Data reader', she thought. 'I can't see any data on here.' she studied the disc intently, held it close to a nearby candle to see if it would reveal any lettering then held it up to the light, still nothing. She cast about then quickly cast a spell. 'Not magical either' she thought. She sighed figuring it was something technological.

"That disc is also a homing-device: squeeze it and wait for the cavalry..."

'Cavalry', she thought, she sighed realizing that she had to study this language more. She threw up her hands "What does it mean?", she said in elven Cav-all-ry?", she repeated the word as best she could.

She knew he was hurting, she didn't need to scan to tell that. She didn't want to hurt him, but she was not one to lie, it wasn't in her to.

Turquine bowed respectfully and fell in behind the servant. His step was crisp, his back straight and shoulders set. "Lady Sylvia, might we stop at the ballroom to pick up my daughter? She speaks with far more eloquence than I."

"I am no lady, sir." Sylvia says rapidly, her eyes widening in panic. "But...as you wish...of course." She moves towards Lauralin quickly.

Lauralin looked up as the woman moved quickly toward her and reached for her staff. Seeing her father behind her she relaxed and stood up, still looking at the disc curiously.

"What have you got Princess?" Turquine asked.

"A day-ta disk." she replied, "It is to summon cav-all-ry."

Turquine looked at it and shrugged, "You're the mage in the family, not I."

She took his arm and curtseyed to Sylvia, "No, father, it is a technological device, not magic. I fear that I may not be able to unlock it's secrets."

"We'll take it to Michael, he'll know what to do with it." With that Turquine turned back to Sylvia and nodded. "Thank you."

Draconis, still focusing on Luaralin, picked up the telepathic message with perfect clarity. Seeing that Tatiana was busy, he decided that this was the perfect time to speak with Luaralin. Focusing on her mind, rather difficult in the crowded room, Draconis replied mentally "Hello, my Lady".

Slowly making his way through the ballroom, he noticed Steele leave. Draconis hoped he could now get a chance to speak face to face with Luaralin. He was facinated by the elf, and now that Steele had stopped flirting, he could get to know her a bit better.

OOC: Please note that Draconis doesn't have romantic feelings towards Luaralin. However, he does feel romantic towards Aiwyn.

A light chuckle came through as Sylvia began to lead them toward the Princess. 'Seems our conversation must wait yet again. As she is seeing people and we can get to pay or respects and good wishes then perhaps soon we may speak.'

Draconis smiled at the irony of the situation, a social event where things kept getting in the way of a good conversation. Telepathically, he responded to Luaralin:
"It seems there is never enough time to talk. Well, I'll still be here when you finish meeting with the princess." Finding a comfortable chair, Draconis sat down with his drink, relaxing for a moment. Unlike several of the recently arrived human guests, he was content to wait until a little later to meet Aiwyn.

OOC: It's really late, I need some sleep. Don't expect any more replies for about 7 hours.

OOC: Sorry for the delay…again. My computer access should be actually good starting Monday, maybe, I hope.

Dragonsreach: Tatiana nods to Turquine, gesturing lightly to a nearby servant. “Sylvia will show you back.”
Davidoria: ((IGNORE))

Greater Khatzwalt: ((I’m temporarily ignoring this because you wouldn’t be allowed this kind of personal security. Since you weren’t trying to metagame or play anyone else or do anything like that, you’re still welcome to post. Just need to rephrase it with a more realistic personal guard, maybe two honor guards.))

Ruthless Slaughter: ((Again, she’s not in the ballroom currently. Please take some time to catch up on events before posting. People are welcome to come in late but make sure to catch up first.))
OOC:Ah, very well. I'll be sure to do some background checking aside from skimming...

IC: In that case R.L. deposited the case in the coat room (I assume there is one) and the champaigne he left with a bodyguard who put it on ice in the Humvee. He then proceeded to mingle with the various guests, not knowing all of them or the countries they came from. The intelegence ministry leaves much to be desired. I know nothing of these countries yet felt compelled to come...Strange, very strange...
(OOC: Seeing as he's only human, anyone could have picked that up)
He decided to step out for some air and found one of the party guests (Steele) and introduced himself.

R.L.: Greetings, I'm President R.L. of Ruthless Slaughter. *shakes Steele's hand* But I suppose you already know that. We have some experience with telepaths, but all we know is their mind-reading ability. I don't suppose you could help me out. You see, I don't know quite a few of these people, perhaps you could point them out?

There is a friendly humor in his voice that merely masks his nervousness. He felt this need come, probably just because it was a party.

The big security man was focussed on leaving, of getting away from the pain, of escaping from the loss of hope that had happened when Lauralin said "I'm married." He had already run over a few guests who didn't see his look of determination in time. Steele did not stop to apologise.

He stepped outside and breathed deeply. He lit a cheroot from a small, silver case and took a deep draw, holding the bitter smoke in his lungs. He was just about to contact Rafe for a pickup when the diplomat he saw earlier...a President of some sorts...walked over and introduced himself.

Steele was on guard from the first word. When he realized the funny sounding diplomat thought Steele was a telepath, he couldn't help but smile. Darius returned the man's handshake.

"A pleasure to meet you, Majesty. Yes, there is a diverse group tonight, and I don't know them all. Over there is Princess Aiwyn, who is our hostess. Walking towards her is King Turquine and his daughter, Princess Lauralin. Near the corner is a gent named Draconis...he may be able to fill you in on telepathy. Floating around somewhere is another chap, name of Whiptail. You'll know him when you see him." Steele continued, pointing out diplomats and celebrities for a few moments. Finally, he stopped and looked at King R.L.

"Tell me, m'Lord, are you truly here for the hand of the Princess?"

'I assume you would speak with the Princess,' she responded to Draconis as she continued to follow Sylvia. 'I can certainly await you as you await me. I am interested in opening relations with interenational regions as we have recently opened our borders. I would not expect treaties or alliances immediately of course, but at least a dialogue.'

She saw the newcomer head out to the garden and caught sight of Darius. Leaving a mental pathway open to Lord Draconis she attempted to contact Darius, not sure if he could respond. 'Darius, this disc seems to have no writing on it. I am not sure how I can plumb the secrets contained within. If this Cav-all-ry is something that can be summoned, is it possible to do so through mystical means? And how do access the content? It does not reveal itself to light or heat and does not detect as magical in nature.'

He heard her song in his head, flowing over the walls of his mental defenses like cool, clean water. Either she was more powerful than he had thought, or he had let her in unknowingly. He smiled when he heard her words...he had been in such a hurry to get away from her, that he had forgotten that she did not share the same technology as he did. Lauralin's world was one of magic and mystery, and Steele's was one of machines and might. He placed his thought clearly for her to see.

"M'Lady, I apologise. I will bring you a...familiar...that will tell you the stories on the disc. As for the cavalry...that is just my way of telling you that if ever you need my help, simply squeezing the disc will alert me...and I'll come as fast as I can. I am the cavalry." Steele let her know that he would wait until she was finished her current business before giving her the "familiar", which was actually just a simple wrist-PC. He adjusted it for her, and waited patiently, pleasantly surprised that he was going to be close to Lauralin once again

Lauralin smiled at Darius' response. Though she hated having to deal with the idea of guards she secretly liked being watched over and Darius was a man she could care for had she not already been married. Lauralin was never one to judge people on the surface but on what they were inside. To many times people either chose or were forced to put on a 'public face' and some people, like Darius, had a different face altogether once the mask was pulled away. Others had nothing at all, only the life they tried so desperatly to live for the sake of power or wealth or some other hidden reason in thier psyche. Some knew the reason, others did not.

'You are most kind', she replied to him, 'in exchange I shall send you a familiar upon which you may call. Summon him and he shall come, then if you need me he can contact one of my other familiars and I can teleport to you directly, for then I can see through thier eyes. His name is Night Whisper.... Oh and by the way, in my culture we call your cav-all-ry a Knight Errant.' A soft feeling then was sent, the definate impression of a mental smile.

"I'm a farkin' school boy!" Steele thought to himself in wonderment, amazed at the speed his heart was beating. He liked having the Elf...correction, Elf-Vampire, in his head. There was a comfort of knowing that for the first time in a long time, he was not alone. Rafes voice reminded him that he was never truly alone.

"Sir, we're still waiting for your signal...we're ready for pick-up."

Steele excused himself from King R.L., and walked briskly away. He spoke quietly, head down.

"Listen, I'm going to be a little bit longer. Use the time - get me more intel." Steele cut the connection, knowing that his tone of voice told Rafe NOT to call back. He lit another small cigar, and walked back to the King. Opening his silver case, Steele offered the King one of the small cheroots.

"Help yourself, your Majesty. These have been custom made for me, hand-rolled by a genius."

Dragonsreach:

Sylvia blinks when Lauralin curtsies to her, her face turning bright red, almost crimson, with embarrassment. “Your Highness…there is no need to make fun of me.” She then begins to lead them into the halls of the palace.

All:

Lady Tatiana folds her hands in front of her lap, quietly awaiting the next request. A young satyr approaches her and whispers something quietly in her ear. She whispers back. Then he leaves the ballroom.

"Forgive me, it is an old habit. I have but recently taken my station as Queen." she replied to Sylvia, confusion evident in her voice as she glanced at her father.

Turquine looked at Laura, "Nobility doesn't bow or curtsy to servants," he told her, "Bunch of aristocratic non-sense if you ask me. I see no reason why nobility can't show simple curtesy. In my opinion it's for us to set the example and if we can't show common curtesy then what should we exptect of our people? Sometimes I really hate being lumped in with that social society."

Sensing the mental pathway Luaralin had left open; Draconis continued his telepathic conversation with her.

"I am quite certain that both our nations could learn much from each other. As for the other matter, you are correct that I intend to speak with the princess, just not at the moment. For now, I will not disturb your meeting with our hostess. As the humans like to say, 'See you soon'."

Reclining in the chair he was in, Draconis considered the benefits of having Luaralin as a friend. His thoughts drifting back to the horrors in Akaton that had forced him to leave. Catching himself quickly, he raised his mental shield again. He hated to think what Luaralin might have seen of his homeland. He neither wanted nor needed the sympathy of others. Questioning for a moment his decision, he remembered that a demonic invasion is hardly something to take lightly.

Turqiune and Lauralin continued to follow Sylvia until suddenly Lauralin stumbled and grabbed onto her father. Her grip was so tight that her nails dug into his arm drawing blood, though he didn't seem to notice or care as he put his arm around her, holding her up.

Almost simultaneously the air near them seems twist and become distorted, as though stretching. Within a second two women stepped through the dimensional gateway and it closed immediatly. One was taller than the king, just short of six feet and though human in appearance she had the grace, elegance and slim build of the elven kind. Her hair was dark brown and her eyes were an odd rust color. She looked around at the commotion she caused and held her hands out and to her sides to show she was unarmed wearing only a robe of state. Though anyone who thought she was defensless was saddely mistaken, assumed they lived long enough to realize they had made a mistake. Ariel was Deryni. She had tutored Lauralin in psionic discipline and it was she who opened the dimensional gate with just a thought. The Deryn never used weapons, they didn't need to. They could kill with a thought.

The other woman was human and stood six and half feet tall with orange/red hair that ended just below her shoulders, her eyes were dark blue and she wore a leather halter top and leather shorts. Over her shoulders, thrown back was a dark blue mantle cloak and she wore a bastard sword on each hip and a two handed sword on her back. The shorter woman quickly checked the peace ties on the weapons the taller woman carried to be sure they were in place. Peace ties are cords that attach to the scabbard and tie around the cross quillion to make it difficult to draw the sword while in the any city in Dragonsreach. Though it didn't completely stop violence it helped reduce it greatly as the inability to quickly draw a weapon reduced the chance of violence in the heat of a moment. Lauralin had passed the law almost immediatly after taking her position as Queen.

Turqiune looked at his high advisor, "What's going on?"

"There's been an incident in Dragonsreach. Arleena has informed Laura already," she said as she gently laid her hand on Lauralin's arm. "It seems the Iron Ring is testing thier newfound technology. They've set off bombs in a public square in Kern where people were gathered to hear an incumbent speech. Several hundred are confirmed dead, others may yet succumb to the injuries. Her people are responding and I've taken the liberty of sending Michael to investigate what was used, he's the only one familiar with this technology. I hope this was alright. I've come to go with you to meet with the Princess as Laura will no longer be able to go, she'll be needed at home. I've brought Brooke with me on the off-chance that an attempt may be made on Laura's life."

"Then we need to go with her," Turqiune said.

"You're my King and won't presume to debate you, but, Lauralin's hope was to establish international dialogues and perhaps in time, treaties and trade agreements. Our leaving now could jeapordize this."

Turquine's eyes narrowed as he looked at his advisor. "You fight dirty," he told her. When no response was forthcoming he said, "Alright, you come with me to meet with the Princess. Assuming she'll still see us, I've already made one mistake this night. Brook," he turned to the tall barbarian woman, "take Laura outside and stay with her until she can teleport herself back." He looked down at Lauralin and gently disengaged her embaedded nails. "Go on, Princess, see to your people," he said and kissed her gently on the forhead.

She looked up, still stunned by the news and nodded before turning and walking out toward the garden. 'Hundreds,' she thought, 'where did I go so terribly wrong? Was it a mistake to open our borders?'

As she turned to go the barbarian woman turned to follow but was stopped as the King's advisor softly touched her arm. "Stay with her," she said to her, "she takes the life and death of every on of her people personaly. This is quite a blow to her."

The barbarian woman turned to fully face the High advisor and said simply, "I died for her once, I'd die for her again." This said she turned and stalked toward the garden door with the grace and deadly restive strength of a tigress.

Turquine turned to Sylvia and sighed, "If she won't see us I'd understand."

The barbarian woman followed Lauralin outside, her bronzed skin glistening and her muscles moving easily under it like the great hunting cat that she so often reminded people of. Laura sat down haevily upon a bench, her shoulders sagging as Brook took a position behind the Queen watching everyone closely and fingering the tied swords at her hips, though not once touching the peace strings at of respect for Lauralin. Brook had sworn herself to Lauralin's side and had even stepped in front of a demon to take a blow for her. A blow that killed Brook. Lauralin had gone to great effort to drag Brook's corpse out of Ferranifer's necropolis, through the great eastern forest and across the vast plains all the way to Highport where she found a cleric and had Brook resurrected. Niether told the other why they did what they did for each other, it was simply understood that each would not let the other die if they could help it.

As Lord Draconis was settling in to wait for Luaralin, he detected something very strange. Suddenly, the very fabric of reality warped, and two imposing figures appeared next to Luaralin and her father. One seemed to be human, while the other was of a species he had never seen before.
"Not more assassins," Draconis said to himself, jumping up to defend the elf-vampire. However, instead of attacking, the two newcomers began to speak in hushed tones with Luaralin and her father. After a few minutes of quiet discussion, the human female escorted Luaralin out the front door. They hurried through the doorway, leaving Draconis's view. He wondered for a moment what could have caused her to leave so suddenly, sending a final telepathic message to Luaralin.

"M'Lady, it seems as though something has drawn you away. Though it is hardly my place to question such things, it is a pity we didn't get a chance to speak face to face. Until we meet again, farewell."

'We shall meet again Lord Draconis' she responded in his mind, 'there is grave news from home and I find I must return. Akaton, I shall remember it and send you a missive when things are settled.'

Steele was waiting for King R.F's reply when Lauralin stepped out into the courtyard, followed by a large, well-armed woman, obviously a guardian by the way she was scanning the area, looking for danger. The womans eyes touched Steele, recognizing a potential foe, and her hand dropped to the hilt of the sword strapped to her waist. Steele was unimpressed.

He crushed his cigar out, and bid farewell to the King, who was still standing there admiring the party-goers. "What a strange little man." thought Steele as he approached Lauralin. She seemed concerned with something, worry furrowing her lovely brow. Steele thought she looked more beautiful than ever. He stopped, 10 feet away, and spoke respectfully.

"M'Lady, may I approach?"

The woman ran an eye over Steele taking him in then dropped her look to Laura waiting for a reaction. Lauralin looked up and small smile broke through the evident pain on her face. "You are welcome to approach, of course," she replied, "there is no need to ask." Turning slightly she introduced the woman behind her "This is Brooke Cartmill, at least," she said turning back, "that's what we call her. We've yet to get her real name and she doesn't tell us much about her past. Brooke is the commander of our law enforcement in Dragonsreach. As you can see, crime is rare," she said before indicating Darius. "This is Darius Steele, he is a friend." With the last part the woman nodded her head curtly then began scanning the garden again, obviously comfortable with the proximity of the newcomer.

Brooke was taller than he first thought, and when their eye's met, Darius Steele knew that he was staring at an equal. So did she. At the words of the Princess, Brooke turned away from Steele, scanning the area professionally. The big man realized that he felt like his back was covered, so he relaxed and smiled at Lauralin.

"I hesitate only out of respect to your...guardian. After all, I am but a stranger to her." Steele nodded at the bronzed warrior: she took no notice of him. Reaching over, he unstrapped the wrist-PC and presented it to Lauralin.

"M'Lady, this is the "familiar" of which we spoke. The disc fits in right here, and pressing this will make it speak. Here, let me show you." Steele took a disc from his pocket, a copy of the one he had given the beautiful Elf earlier. He slid it into the small opening, and pressed the button. A soft, woman's voice was heard.

"Name: Kain Shentavo - previously known as Kain Brightblade, Kain Irenicus
Age: Around 30 standard, in combined vampiric years and mortal.
Threat rate: Extremely high. Use extreme caution in contact."

Steele smiled at the look on the Princess's face. He showed her the second button, and explained what it was for.

"Pressing this green light will allow you to ask simple questions...watch." Steele pressed the green button and spoke clearly:

"Tell me about Kain Shentavo's father." There was no immediate reaction, but a few seconds later, the computer spoke again.

"Xzar, Kain’s father and current ruler at the time of Velmora, went insane and summoned a demonic army which threatened Velmora. Kain rose up with the Psi’s forces and pushed Xzar’s small demonic force back. Kain showed himself to be a highly powerful mage, and now, he had claimed ruler ship due to his father’s seemingly random insanity. The lower levels of Velmora were destroyed however, much to Kain’s dismay. Many believe it was something to do with one of his excursions to the lower levels of Velmora, an item of some sort, but such accounts are mostly without evidence..."

Steele clicked the button again, and the voice cut off. He handed the device to Lauralin. He stared at her openly, knowing that at any moment, they would part ways, perhaps never to see each other again.

Lauralin took the wrist PC and looked at Darius, pain still evident in her face. "Tell me of the explosives of this new world," she said. "Darius," blood tears began filling her eyes again, "A criminal orginization in my region has attained new and lethal technology. They have killed hundreds of my people in a senseless and violent act. Other than Michael, my father chief of internal security, I know no one who can tell me of this new technology. And Michael fears what I am. Can you help me?"

Dragonsreach:

Sylvia....just blinks, a lot. She turns to Turquine for instruction, explanation. "Your...Majesty...?"

Turquine looked at Sylvia. "I fear there's been a situation in Dragonsreach. My daughter will need to return to address the issue. I can stand in her stead, if the Princess would be so willing. My High Advisor," he nodded to the woman beside him, "is capable of carry on for her and I can stand as a duly appointed representative. You see, my daughter typically sees to the matters of foreign affairs. At least I can offer my best wishes to the Princess on this night. The very least I can do offer an apology for the events." He looked over at the woman beside him.

"Although matters of emergency," she began, "are unavoidable, we consider it in bad taste, where we come from, to simply remove ourselves from the presence of nobility without first offering some sort of apology. Since Lauralin needs to gather herself, as teleportation is a rather precise magic and lethal if a mistake is made, though she, like any mage, makes it seem simple, her present state of mind needs to be addressed then she must leave. Her father," and here she nodded at Turquine, "is willing to stand in her stead in the case that the nobility of this house might take offense."

Explosives? On Lauralin's world? Technology AND magic in the hands of criminals...Steele's anger rose at the senseless violences and innocent lives lost.

"M'Lady, I am sorry for your loss. I am indeed very familiar with explosives, and I pledge myself and my resources in your hands." Steele saw gratitude at his words, and relief softening Lauralins brow.

"I'll need to speak with your Chief of Security, and get a sample for analysis...and ideally, I need to be at the crime scene while it's still fresh. I'm not sure how long it will take my ship to get there..." Steele was wishing he had arrived in one of his cruisers, not the small frigate that currently floated in orbit above them.

"Researching as we speak, Boss." Rafe's familiar voice popped in his ear, "we don't have much on Dragonsreach. It could be right next door, or it could be days away..."

"Thank you," replied Lauralin, relief evident in her voice, "Dragons Reach is several hours away. On dragonback at least, the way I arrived." She stood and took Darius' hand, "I cannot express how grateful I am. An abomination I may have become, but the lives of innocents are still of great concern for me." She stopped, her brows drawing together in thought. "I could teleport us all there but I do not know if your familiar would be comfortable with you so far removed. I could have my dragon return to gather us and return us, if there is some way for your people to follow. I suppose that would be best. I am not overly fond of heights, but the dragons who choose to work with us are protective and would not allow anything to happen while in flight."

"Be happy she's only dealing with heights," Brooke said in a more archaic form of the present international language, "if were spiders we would all be in trouble," and she grinned at Steele. "She once blew up an entire room to kill one smal spider."

"It was HUGE," Laura protested.

"It was the size of my thumb," Brooke returned.

Lauralin looked at Brooke then away sullenly, "Your hand is bigger than mine," was her only reply.

Brooke grinned again then winked at Darius before returning to scanning the grounds about them.

(OOC I will play the part of the computer CD if you wish to ask furture questions. It will make it more interesting than me writing lots and lots of history.)

(OOC - Thank you Velmora, it will be much more fun that way too.)

<<OOC: Velmora, brilliant!>>

IC:

The interplay between the two girls bespoke of a great friendship, and Darius was pleased to see that Lauralin had another person watching out for her. Time was of the essence here, and the faster he could get to ground zero, the fresher the evidence would be.

"Your Majesty, if I could get to the scene with all due haste, I would be better suited to help you. I will deal with my "familiar" and return to you." Steele bowed slightly, and turned away. Rafe spoke before Steele had a chance.

"Sir, Tanis want's to..." the voice of his half-Elf navigator cut in on Rafe, "what the frag d'ya think yer doing, Romeo? This thing with Shentavo is blowing up, and yer running off to save the bimbette! Why do you ALWAYS let yer groin decide things for ya?" Steele knew better than to try and interrupt Tanis when she got going, and waited patiently until she ran out of steam. He took that moment to break in:

"Listen, I'll be honest with you: I...need to do this. Lauralin deserves my help, moreso than that bloody vampire. It won't take me long, a quick insertion, spectrum analysis, trace tracking then a surgical-strike termination. Clean and easy, in and out." Steele looked back at Lauralin, her brilliant red hair glowing from the rays of the late-day sun. He forgot completely about Shentavo.

"Ok, I need a full exo-burst, concentrated, on my mark. Then I'll be offline for a few hours. Stay put, I'll hit my tracer if I need you. Ready?" Steele prepared himself for the charge that was to come. "Now."

The power flowed into him, through him, replenishing the battery cells, filling them with stored potential. Steele felt alive, his skin stretched along straining musles, fighting to contain the holocaust he was now ready to unleash. Finally, it was over, and Steele was renewed. Walking back to Lauralin, he felt very sorry for whoever had caused her pain.

Steele was going to return the favor, tenfold.

(OOC-So is Darius allowing Laura to teleport him? Or do we go by dragon or by his ship? I'm not sure what he has in mind here.)

<<OOC: Teleporting seems faster. Maybe you can send a familiar or dragon to guide my ship for an eventual arrival at Dragonsreach?>>

(OOC - Teleport it is. But Darius will have to tell Laura about the ship. Though she's studied about these things she has no pratical knowledge.)

Lauralin reaches out to Darius, laying on hand lightly on his arm then nods to Brooke who steps around the bench to touch Laura's arm. A spidery word in an unfamiliar tongue (I assume, correct me if i'm wrong about Darius knowing the language of magic) and they vanish from the garden.

(At this point I think it would be inappropriate to tie up this thread. Turquine is still available to meet with the Princess. I'm new to the game so if you could start a new one, perhaps start with the reaction on your ship then I could describe what Darius sees.)

Dragonsreach:

Sylvia curtseys once more before guiding the two to the sitting room. The room is simple, if constructed of the finest materials. Princess Aiwyn glances up, sitting in a cherrywood chair with her legs elegantly crossed. Seeing Turquine she rises, looking at the new woman briefly as her elegant brow furrows. "Something is amiss?"

POOF!

To follow the further adventures of Lauralin and Steele, come here!

http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=6957034&posted=1#post6957034

Sylvia speaks to her liege. "Your Highness, there has apparently been a large-scale attack in Dragonsreach."

Aiwyn's face slowly loses color. "Do they know...?" Her question unfinished, the Princess shakes her head slowly, looking off before turning to Turquine. "You do have our most sincere support in this time of crisis." She glances briefly to Sylvia. "Sylvia, dear, would you go let my mother know?" The servant girl curtseys before rushing off.

Rafe unplugged the headset, swivelling his chair towards the now-empty Captains chair. Tarin was punching buttons, trying to get Berry, their semi-sentient AI, to make some sense of all the various data they had accumulated on Kain Shentavo. Rafe knew she had doubled her efforts since the boss had taken a shine to the redheaded Elfling, and that she cared about Steele much more than she would ever let him know.

"Tarin, he's gone. One of those magic teleport things...sensors are trying to analyze, but no luck yet. Frickin' Elves..." Rafe tapped a few buttons, calling back the last few minutes of Steele's history.

"Look's like we're gonna have some visitors too...someone who know's how to get us to Dragonsreach...and to the boss." He worried briefly, but the feeling passed immediately. One person he didn't need to worry about was Darius Steele.

Lady Tatiana glances around the room, only Lauralin having spoken to her. "No one else wishes to see the Princess or the Queen?"

Turqiune bows to the Princess and says in a low tone, "My daughter is aware and on her way back now." The woman looks over at him, "You should not be bowing to a Princess she's below your station," as she curtseys to Aiwyn, "though certainly far above my own."

Turquine looks at her, "I bow to a Lady, Ariel, you know that."

"All to well, I'm just reminding you that it's not appropriate."

"Consider me reminded," he replied then turned back to the Princess. "Forgive me but I was not born to royalty. I feel that any Lady should be treated with respect. We came to wish you well on this night and that you find someone worthy of you. My daughter had hoped to open a dialogue with you for the possibility of future treaties and alliances. Under the circumstances we can understand if you would prefer to wait for any such discussions. I pray that you will not allow my actions this night to cloud any such decisions." He stopped and looked at the woman beside him then turned back to the Princess. "Forgive my ill manners. This is Ariel of Deryn. My High advisor." With that the woman curtseyed again, "Well met Princess Aiwyn."

Draconis finished his drink, stood up, and walked over to Lady Tatiana. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw the unmistakable flash of someone teleporting. He didn't bother to look, he knew who it was, remembering that Luaralin had told him that she had received grave news, and had to leave. He was no stranger to grave news, considering for a moment whether to follow and try to help. He reminded himself quickly that she was perfectly capable of taking care of herself, and that if she needed his help she would have asked.

While he carefully went over these thoughts, he had been talking with Tatiana, a talent which was of great use in an event such as this. To those around him, all they could see was the elf speaking to Tatiana after briefly bowing.

"M'Lady, I would like to arrange a meeting with Princess Aiwyn once the delegation from DragonsReach has finished."

OOC: Lord Draconis bows to all aristocrats he meets. The custom is derived from military tradition, in which an officer always salutes another officer regardless of rank.

Akaton:

Lady Tatiana curtsies to Lord Draconis. “Of course, Your Lordship.”

Dragonsreach:

Aiwyn curtsies to the king, inclining her head to his companion. “And what has deprived us of your daughter’s charming company?”

Turquine looked at Ariel who returned his look with one of inquiry. At a slight nod from him she proceeded, "Dragonsreach came under attack by an unknown faction. Four explosions in a crowded square claiming the lives of several hundred who had gathered to hear the speech of a government hopeful. We have no information as yet as to who is responsible but we do know that they used outland advanced technology. Magic was not the cause or we would have stopped it long before it could have happened."

"You see," Turquine took up from there, "we have only recently opened our borders at my daughters insistance. Though we now have modern innovations we're far from prepared to deal with this sort of thing. Our security measures are still based on magic and steel, at least Dragonsreach is. I've had the benefit of having a man in my security team in Highport that was born in a place called Mars colony and very familiar with the technology outside our borders. He's taken precautions for Dragonsreach already, but we've yet to bring anyone else up to an acceptable level to handle these things. I'm sure that, with your permission, she'll be in contact with you again in the hopes of opening a dialogue."

The big security man was focussed on leaving, of getting away from the pain, of escaping from the loss of hope that had happened when Lauralin said "I'm married." He had already run over a few guests who didn't see his look of determination in time. Steele did not stop to apologise.

He stepped outside and breathed deeply. He lit a cheroot from a small, silver case and took a deep draw, holding the bitter smoke in his lungs. He was just about to contact Rafe for a pickup when the diplomat he saw earlier...a President of some sorts...walked over and introduced himself.

Steele was on guard from the first word. When he realized the funny sounding diplomat thought Steele was a telepath, he couldn't help but smile. Darius returned the man's handshake.

"A pleasure to meet you, Majesty. Yes, there is a diverse group tonight, and I don't know them all. Over there is Princess Aiwyn, who is our hostess. Walking towards her is King Turquine and his daughter, Princess Lauralin. Near the corner is a gent named Draconis...he may be able to fill you in on telepathy. Floating around somewhere is another chap, name of Whiptail. You'll know him when you see him." Steele continued, pointing out diplomats and celebrities for a few moments. Finally, he stopped and looked at King R.L.

"Tell me, m'Lord, are you truly here for the hand of the Princess?"
R.L.: The scary thing is, I'm not really sure why I came. I just felt this urge. It could be the joyous occasion, could the elven magic for all I know. What I do know is that it couldn't have happened at a better time. I just finished a trade agreement that brought two countries into alliance with my own. Oh, and the 'your majesty' is hardly necessary. Please, just R.L. If you'll excuse me, I think I'll go present my congradulatory gifts now.

With that, he excuses himself as a bodyguard hands him the case and the champaigne. R.L. is now on his way to the side room where Aiwyn is recieving guests.

Dragonsreach:

Aiwyn’s face goes slightly pale. “That is…dreadful news. Sylvia, go…go tell mother.” Aiwyn slowly sinks back into her seat, looking off a moment before returning her gaze to Turquine. “Be seated, please.”

Turquine does as the Lady asks and takes the profferd seat. Ariel steps around standing behind him. "My Lady there's no need to interrupt your evening. I sought only to explain my daughter's absence."

A light touch from Ariel turns his head. "They will do as they see fit."

"But this is a special night for her," he responds.

"Would you do any less?" she asked.

Turquine became silent. They both knew he would immediatly do all he could to assist regardless of the situation at hand. "I wouldn't allow Laura's evening to come to this were it her in the Princess Aiwyn's place."

"That's because she wouldn't have allowed a mate to be chosen for her. May I remind you that she ran away from home when she was promised to another?"

Turquine chuckled and nodded. "Her mother had that same strength of will." He looked up at the Princess then, "Laura's mother was a High Priestess," he said smiling then frowned as he said, "I wish Laura could have known her mother."

Aiwyn sighs lightly. "I am afraid most of my people are as in the dark regarding technology as yours. My Aunt is...but we should attempt to discuss the affairs at hand. What did you wish to speak to me about?"