A Royal Betrothal (Ell)

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{nayeli richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
Long lost words whisper to me
Still can't find what keeps me here
When all this time I've been so hollow inside
I know you're still there...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

Teirm… The most secure city in all of the Broddring Kingdom and sometimes, my mind wondered why the King did not chose this place as his protective capital, but it was not my place to try and change the man’s mind. Though he was my uncle, I did not care much for his thoughts, I taught myself how to run a city and one day, possible a Kingdom if he chose me to be the next Queen and rule after him, but Turin was older and he had military experience. I was younger and I was a woman, which made me all the more determined, however, I was on a special mission, for my dear sister, Leilani Richards, though she did not know of my mission, I did and my uncle was the one who sent me. Turin did not even come with me, which was prove it was highly secret between my uncle and me. A few guards traveled with me and soon, we were Toark River and entering into the sights of the massive city. ”Sir Dave.”

[/color] The man pushed his horse to be even with my own horse. All the men were riding brown or Bay horses, where as I was riding a white one and Dave a black one. ”Yes Milady.” I looked over at him. ”Send the messenger Hawk forward to Teirm with a message of our approach. Have them go on to tell Count Genji Lantieri as well.”[/color] Dave nodded to me and quickly wrote it all down and sent the Hawk ahead.

I watched it fly as we set the horses to a halt onto of the hill that allowed us to see the city fully. I pulled my cloak around myself, hiding my body. I wore my black assassin’s outfit, since it was the best for travel. It was tight around my body and slight up both sides to allow me to ride horse back. My feet were covered in a pair of high black soft boots that made little sound when I was walking and they were comfortable. The winter was still here and I pulled the cloak around my body tightly and firmly to allow myself to stay warm. I wore a black gem between my collar bones and my sword was hooked to the saddle, however, my daggers were slides up the sleeves of my dress, since it was a long sleeve dress and I wore matching gloves to hid my fingers. I had been trained to kill, but I was ruling a city which was something that even I had not expected. We headed on after I pulled the hood over my braided black hair. We were at a full gallop now, going towards the city with little or any care about the people we were pushing off the road. My uncle had set me on a mission.

As we arrived at the gate, a few guards, young ones at that, wanted to stand in our way, but they were pulled back by veterans, who allowed us to pass with no problem. Once that was done, we headed off at a full gallop, passing people and not caring about anything as we raced towards the Citadel in the center of the city. My ice blue eyes were focused on what was ahead and that was the large building in the center of the city. I smiled slightly, my ice danced with amusement, knowing what the mission was. I knew my sister would not be happy, but in the end, she would be. She was going to be betrothed to a Count and she would be able to settled down and start a family. I was happy for her, but no one knew of this except for two people and soon a third and then it would be announced to her and the rest of the world in Carvala.

As we reached the large Citadel, we all dismounted and gave our reins to a slave boy. I removed my hood and looked up towards the main doors of the building, seeing someone standing there, awaiting our arrival. ”So, the message was a success.”[/color] I was surprised. My group of Knights had only recently started using the hawks for messages and only a few in each city knew of them.[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Hunting you, I can smell you - Alive
Your heart pounding in my head
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Saving me; Raping me;
Watching me...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

’word count seven. two. zero.
’tagged none has come
’song Haunted--! Evanescence
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[Elloria]

("Italics = Itasu, Genji's native tongue")

Genji held his katana and wakizashi close to the throat of his latest sparring partner. It was one of the newer guards he had hired after having to execute several of them for treason. And the noble they had been working for, whose son was one of the first to pledge undying loyalty to Genji. It wasn’t much of a purge, but it was a start.

This particular guard had claimed to be a superb swordsman - one who could give even Genji a challenge. He had, of course, been incorrect. The duel had lasted less than ten minutes. He was starting to tire of these Alagaesians thinking they could hold up against Itasan training. Call it an elitist attitude, but it was warranted. “Try not to embarrass me further with your insolent claims, soldier. I brook no arrogance in my ranks.” He gently pressed the tips into the man’s neck. The guard winced before murmuring he understood. Genji pulled the swords away, leaving two small beads of blood welling up on the fool’s neck. He wiped them off on the guard’s shirt before sheathing them and walking away. Raiden tossed him a towel as he passed, which he easily caught. He, Rikuto, and Mami fell in step behind Genji. Genji began wiping away the slight sweat he had built up during practice. “Where is Hiroshi?” he asked as they left the sparring yard.

“She said something about hawk training,” Mami replied. Genji grunted before tossing the towel into a laundry bin and reaching out for his shirt. Mami handed it to him and he slipped it on silently. He then led them back to the citadel wondering what to do about the new guards, why Hiroshi was so fascinated with those messenger hawks, and what he was going to eat for a post-training snack. Consumed by these thoughts, it seemed no time at all before Genji was ascending the citadel steps. He finally looked up, mildly surprised to see Hiroshi practically hopping from apparent excitement. Some parchment was clutched in her hands. He held his hand out and she breathlessly gave the parchment to him. He glanced over it, then reread it with narrowed eyes. “When did you receive this?” His voice was dangerously low.

“Just a few moments ago,” Hiroshi tersely replied. Genji nodded before crumpling the parchment. “Have one of the servants...slaves...whatever they are, wait here for her arrival. And tell whoever you pick to take her to the throne room. I will await her there once I’ve cleaned up a bit.” He stormed past her without waiting for her reply. He had precious little time to prepare for this unexpected - and unwanted - visitor.

After a very brief bath - more of a shower than anything - he changed into fresh pants and a thin, sleeved vest. They were an elegant emerald in color, with a golden dragon embroidered on one leg and another on the vest’s back. He brushed his hair until it was free of tangles, then ran his fingers through it and shook his head so that it fell carelessly around his face. Satisfied, he left the west wing and locked it securely before making his way to the throne. He then settled onto the uncomfortable seat and managed to recline slightly in it - as if he was unconcerned with the fact that Lady Nayeli, niece to Broddring’s king, was about to appear before him. Which was mostly true. But an outsider must always feel concern in enemy territory. His voice rang out clearly as a slave let a woman enter the throne room. "Greetings and welcome to my humble city. May I assume that you are the Lady Nayeli?"

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{nayeli richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
Long lost words whisper to me
Still can't find what keeps me here
When all this time I've been so hollow inside
I know you're still there...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

I was happy the messenger hawks were a success, it was something that gave me great joy, along with Dave, the Knight who always seemed to follow me and watch after me when Turin was doing other matters. As we looked up the stairs to the Citadel, we saw the lowly slave stand before us, the message, a clear success since no one would be waiting for us other wise. I signaled for the men, even Dave to stay away, this was a conversation between myself and the Count, Genji, a man from a island far from here. I knew he was a man who was well trained, as I was. I was trained to be a Assassin, which was what I had wanted to be, but my uncle had other plans. As I entered the doors to the large Citadel, I saw to my left a small group of people, talking. They saw me and gave a bow, my cloak hood had been pulled back to show my face.

Everyone knew my face, I was next in line to my Uncle, I was very well known and everyone needed to keep that in mind. The Gala Festival had only been a few days ago and I had watched each day passing as my sister was happier and happier. Something had her happy, so I figured it was time with met with Genji and give him word of the Betrothal to my sister. My uncle had picked him out of many other royal people, mostly as a gift and also a show of friendship between the two. My sister would be well taken care of here, and she had made quite a few journey’s here on her own with a few guards to met with someone, so she would not be alone once she came here. That made me happy, which was very good.

As we headed towards another set of doors, a man offered to take my cloak. At first, I thought against it, but soon, I was handing it over. My dress was tight, curving and complimenting my body perfectly. I headed in, my eyes even had Kohl to darken them and keep the sun from hurting them. I looked towards the throne, the slave bowing to me, though I waved him off, not even thanking him. Unlike my sister, I did not have a heart to take in slaves. They were property and that was how it was meant to be. He wore clothing that held a dragon on it and I wrinkled my nose. I was far enough away that he probably did not see it, but soon my face was blank and I was standing before him. ”Greetings and welcome to my humble city. May I assume that you are the Lady Nayeli?" I glanced around his Citadel walls and then back at him.

”Thank You… And Yes, I am. I have matters that come from the King that must be discussed with you.”

[/color] I did not look down on him, he was my equal… In a way. I was still the Neice of the King, I was still going to be higher then him and I had more say with the King. He knew better then to give me away in marriage, I knew what I wanted in a man and I normally booted them out before they got a chance to tell me why they were there.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Hunting you, I can smell you - Alive
Your heart pounding in my head
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Saving me; Raping me;
Watching me...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

’word count five. seven. four.
’tagged Genji Lantieri
’song Haunted--! Evanescence
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[Elloria]

Genji eyed the woman with his usual disdain. The women of Alagaesia were so...sluttish. Always wearing tight clothes that tended to hinder movement rather than aid it, ever ready to pop out of them at a moment’s notice. He’d hoped that the royals of this land were perhaps above the disgusting trend. Obviously not. Certainly she wasn’t laying bare her assets, but was it necessary to leave so little to the imagination when the outfit hugged every curve? And to think he was sired by these people. “Oooh?” The statement turned into a slight yawn. Judging by the way she held herself, she had received extensive training of some sort or other. Most likely of the less-than-savory variety. Moreover, she seemed very confident in herself. Almost arrogant. He was unsurprised by that. “It must be something of vague importance if King Azuan would send his niece to deliver the message.” He rose from the throne with a lazy, feline grace. As he moved, his four Itasan guards appeared from the shadows behind the throne. It was probably a bit disquieting to witness, for there had been no indication that they were even there. They looked as exotic as Genji and each one was heavily armed - Rikuto with her poleaxe, Hiroshi with her crossbow, Mami with her bullwhips and Raiden with his dozen or more daggers. Their clothes were fairly similar to Genji's - loose-fitting pants and shirts, though all in various dark shades of camouflage. And silent.

He descended from the throne's dais and moved past Nayeli. “Follow me. I suspect it is not something you wish others to hear. We shall retire to the smaller dining nook.” Without pausing to make sure she followed, Genji made his way a little further into the citadel to the ‘dining nook.' It was actually the smallest dining hall, but it was large enough to seat twenty people comfortably. He sat with that same lazy grace in the more comfortable chair. His guards fanned out behind him. Once they had settled, he spoke once more. “Would you desire some refreshment? I, for one, am ravenous and would not seem impolite to such a distinguished visitor.” He gave her a few moments to reply, then nodded at Raiden. The man bowed low before disappearing through the door that lead down to the kitchens. Genji turned his disdainful eyes back upon Nayeli. “What, then, brings you to Teirm?”

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{nayeli richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
Long lost words whisper to me
Still can't find what keeps me here
When all this time I've been so hollow inside
I know you're still there...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

I watched as his eyes looked over me, my eyes did not wonder over him and I did not care if he liked or if he did not. I could move perfectly well, my dagger was only finger tips away if he tried anything that I did not like. Alagaesia was full of many exotic people, I was the offspring of those who had to win the land. I looked at him, watching him myself, looking throughout the hall quickly and seeing small outlines of people. ”Oooh?” I heard his yawn and wondered what my uncle saw in this man that he would want to give my sister to him as a wife.

It was a privilege to earn such a bride, but my uncle saw something in this young man and it was rather hidden to me. He did not seem like one my sister would like, but it did not matter to me. My uncle made the call and he entrusted me with the message. He knew my skills would get me here and that I would make it without a scratch. ”It must be something of vague importance if King Azuan would send his niece to deliver the message.” I nodded quickly. ”Your thoughts would be correct,”

[/color] I said to him quickly, not a ounce of emotion laced within my voice. As he rose, with feline movements, I saw the outlined shapes moving. My middle fingers touched my hidden dagger pommels, but soon, I could tell that they were all his guards. It saddens me to see count have to be guarded… It shows fear.[/color] I thought to myself. Sure, I had guards, but once I was inside, I had no one with me unless my brother was presence and then he stayed with me.

I looked at each, acknowledging them all. He moved towards me, coming down from his thrown and moving past me. I turned, my legs shoulder length apart. ”Follow me. I suspect it is not something you wish others to hear. We shall retire to the smaller dining nook.” I moved with him, my movement not at all hindered by my clothing. I moved with grace that should have belong to a elf, but it was from skilled training as a assassin. My steps were light and silent, mostly from the customs boots that I wore to keep others from hearing me.

As we moved, we came into a room about the size of my own private dining hall, where my family ate and visitors ate when they came and only a few were there. It was not nearly as decorated as the hall back home, but I was not hear to look at style, I was here to discuss a important matter. He sat down and I followed. This was his home, so I was respectful and waited for him to be seated first. ”Would you desire some refreshment? I, for one, am ravenous and would not seem impolite to such a distinguished visitor.” I looked at him for a moment and then nodded. ”Some wine would be nice.”[/color] I watched him nod and one of his guards left us. His eyes were back on me and I looked at him, waiting for him to ask about my business. ”What, then, brings you to Teirm?”

I let out a silent breath and then looked at him, my ice blue eyes emotionless. ”My uncle and I have been speaking for many weeks… He wishes my sister to marry and his eyes have turned to you, Genji. He feels that since you control one of major cities, it would polite to offer you his Neice, Lady Leilani as your bride.”[/color] I was not going to go around the earth to make my point. I had agreed with the man before I came to this city that my visit would be quick.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Hunting you, I can smell you - Alive
Your heart pounding in my head
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Saving me; Raping me;
Watching me...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

’word count six. four. seven.
’tagged Genji Lantieri
’song Haunted--! Evanescence
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[Elloria]

(“Italics” = Itasu, Genji’s native tongue)

Genji raised a delicate eyebrow. “You and your uncle wish for your sister to marry a half-breed?” He laughed coldly. “I find that difficult to believe.” He leaned back in his chair and gazed at the wall. His eyes grew distant as he turned his mind to other matters. More specifically, to the imminent arrival of the Itasan fleet. What goods were in high demand in Teirm? In Alagaesia? What should he charge this time around? Would his mother be on this trip? Was his grandfather still in good health? He dwelt upon these matters for several long moments before he felt a tapping upon his shoulder. “What?” he asked.

“Perhaps you ought not dismiss the notion so quickly, Genji,” Rikuto murmured in her velvety voice. “Think of the power that would give you here. No noble of Teirm would dare raise a hand against you if you were wed to royalty.”

“Our blood has been sullied enough,” he snapped. Rikuto stepped back, irritation flashing across her face. Genji would have spoken further, but Raiden appeared in that moment to set a bowl of pork and rice in front of Genji - with a set of chopsticks and the usual glass of water - before setting a glass of Itasan wine before Nayeli. Genji let out an irritated huff, then bowed his head in prayer to Yawata no Kami. When he finished, he picked up the chopsticks. As he lifted the first bite to his mouth, he said, “Why would your uncle choose the lowly bastard child of Teirm’s Lantieri instead of another?” He placed the bite in his mouth and chewed on it thoughtfully, waiting for Nayeli’s answer.

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{nayeli richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
Long lost words whisper to me
Still can't find what keeps me here
When all this time I've been so hollow inside
I know you're still there...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

”You and your uncle wish for your sister to marry a half-breed?” I heard his cold laughter and it barely phased me. He found this funny, which as I thought about it, he was nothing more then a half-blood in these lands, but my uncle, though as crazy as he was, saw something in this boy. ”I find that difficult to believe.” I shrugged my shoulders, dismissing his claims of disbelieve. He could act like he did not believe it all he wanted, it was the truth and something that I did not play around with. ”My uncle does not lie about these matters, Genji.”

[/color] I said coldly to him, if not colder then his laugh had been. I was a count, I knew how to deal with them and I knew how to deal with people who were not from around here.

He seemed to be thinking of other things as the silence went on, however, a woman came to him, speaking in a language that I did not know. I looked between the two for a moment, seeing something in her eyes, but not completely sure what they were since she was slightly turned from me. He snapped something at her and I saw how irritated she was. A sly smile came to my face, I did not blame her for being irritated. He was not the friendly people from what I could tell and he thought I I was joking.

Soon, there was food before him, along with two sticks that must have been what he ate with. It was odd, but I said nothing. Each person had their own customs, so I would not ask or poke fun at him for it, though I wanted to. I watched him pray and I took a sip of the wine. It was different, but it was good, none the less. ”Why would your uncle choose the lowly bastard child of Teirm’s Lantieri instead of another?” I swirled the wine in the glass and then placed it down before me, my hands, still in the gloves I had been wearing earlier. ”You have proven yourself… Running a city where the major slave trade is, where the majority of the trade comes into this city… He was not the only one who chose you… You have training that not all Counts have, something he admires in people.”[/color] I said, taking another sip of the wine. ”My sister has yet to hear of this… I think it would beneficial that if you accept this arranged marriage, you return with me for a few days to meet her and allow us to declare to the Kingdom of the Engagement.”[/color] I honestly did not know why the man, my uncle would want this man to marry my sister, but I did know he was trained and trained well and at least I knew my sister would be well feed and would have nice tasting wine.

”Besides… We would not want Lady Leilani… The Diplomat ending up with one of those other lowly people known as peasants and such… Already, all of Alagaesia has heard of her adoption of a young slave child.”[/color] I wrinkled my nose at such a though. She had granted the child freedom and not only freedom, but given her a name and called her sister. It did not settle with me and knowing her, she would do the same with a man and marry him when they got to know each other. She had too kind of heart, it was better to give that heart to a man now instead of waiting.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Hunting you, I can smell you - Alive
Your heart pounding in my head
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Saving me; Raping me;
Watching me...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

’word count six. zero. three.
’tagged Genji Lantieri
’song Haunted--! Evanescence
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[Elloria]

Genji listened in silence as he ate his meal. He did not miss the cold tone in the woman’s voice. It merely meant she was trying to play on his level. That was fine by him. She would doubtless have greater luck than the nobles of Teirm. She was trained to deal with their idiocy, after all. He watched Nayeli from the corner of his eye, noting the wrinkled nose with amusement. So her sister was kindhearted? Willful was more probable. Which was not surprising, if the sister was anything to go by. He took another bite and swallowed. “It seems to me this is more a matter of consolidating his power in Teirm than finding a suitable husband for his niece. He has simply managed to kill two birds with one strike.” He sipped at his water. “You, on the other hand, wish to see your sister with a suitable man. Preferably happy and with less opportunity to be so careless as to adopt a lesser being as a sibling. Or worse, to be romantically involved with such a being. What a tragedy that would be.” Sarcasm laced his voice like poison, though he simply took another sip of water and a final bite of rice. Setting the chopsticks in the bowl, he pushed it aside and leaned forward. Folding his hands as if in prayer, he placed his chin upon them and looked directly in Nayeli’s eyes. There was no emotion in his sea-colored gaze, only an arrogant indifference. “I do not have time to waste upon reining in a willful child. Even if she is of the royal blood. What good is that to me when I must spend my time keeping my nobles from killing me and sending my city into chaotic anarchy?”

He flicked his gaze to the door with a frown, falling silent. Without warning, Hiroshi fired a crossbow bolt at the door. A startled yelp sounded from the other side, even as Raiden crossed the room in the blink of an eye to throw the door open. He was followed by Hiroshi, who retrieved her bolt before returning to her place behind Genji. A brief scuffle could be heard just out of sight before Raiden returned as well. He dragged in a much taller, burlier man by the scruff of his neck and tossed him down between Genji and Nayeli. Raiden held up a dagger, clearly of Alagaesian make, before holding it and one of his own against the man's neck. Genji nodded curtly, then looked disinterestedly at the individual before turning his attention back to Nayeli. “As I said. What use, then, will the child be to me?”

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{nayeli richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
Long lost words whisper to me
Still can't find what keeps me here
When all this time I've been so hollow inside
I know you're still there...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

He ate in silence, listened to me for the most part, which was good, it meant he was going over his options and possible thinking up the idea. My tone of voice was rather normal, unless you found me on a good day and then you could hear some cheer, but that was rare unless in the company of my siblings, of course, Leilani could be a handful, she was smarter then most, very smart, could work her words around anyone, which was why she was such an assets to the kingdom. After a moment, I watched him take a bit and then he began to speak. ”It seems to me this is more a matter of consolidating his power in Teirm than finding a suitable husband for his niece. He has simply managed to kill two birds with one strike.” I shrugged. It could be correct, but then again, he was giving this man power in the whole land as well. ”He not only gains a bit of power here, but you gain power in Carvala.”

[/color] I said to him, watching as he sipped his water.

It was the truth. Who would not want power within’ the capital of the Kingdom? I knew of few who did not want the power. ”You, on the other hand, wish to see your sister with a suitable man. Preferably happy and with less opportunity to be so careless as to adopt a lesser being as a sibling. Or worse, to be romantically involved with such a being. What a tragedy that would be.” I looked at him for a moment, smiling. ”You are right… Someone who can watch what she is doing and keep her from freeing the slaves this government needs.”[/color] I said to him, smiling slightly before taking another sip of wine. My sisters was beyond caring… She was too caring.

I watched as sipped some more water and took the last bite of rice, pushing the bowl away with the two stick in it. He leaned forward slightly, folding his hands and placing his chin upon them. In his eyes, no emotion could be seen, which was something I liked about people. ”I do not have time to waste upon reining in a willful child. Even if she is of the royal blood. What good is that to me when I must spend my time keeping my nobles from killing me and sending my city into chaotic anarchy?” I smiled, chuckling slightly at his words. ”Though my sister is quick to help, she is far from a child. Smart, can use her words better then I can and can win any debate. She is more mature then my uncle sometimes and prettier then myself.”[/color] I did not mind complimenting my sister.

Soon, his eyes went to the door we had gone in and my own ice blue eyes went to the same warning. I saw a bolt going at the door, heard a yelp and smiled as I watched things unfold. I would not have to worry about security when it came to my sister, if she married this arrogant man. As the man was tossed at our feet, I looked at the dagger, clearly made by someone of my country and then I looked into his eyes. “As I said. What use, then, will the child be to me?” I leaned forward slightly, my eyes danced with slight amusement. Was he this oblivious to the power he could have?[/color] I pushed the thought from my mine, running my gloved finger around the edge of my glass.

”Winning any debate you want to win, gaining power in Carvala, and most of this land. Betrothed to a woman who has the beauty of ten? What are you not gaining from my sister.”[/color] I said to him, looking him in the eyes. If he did not want her, I would leave, find someone else who would want such power before she went and threw it all away on some commoner.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Hunting you, I can smell you - Alive
Your heart pounding in my head
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Saving me; Raping me;
Watching me...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

’word count six. six. nine.
’tagged Genji Lantieri
’song Haunted--! Evanescence
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[Elloria]

Genji shrugged. “I need no help winning debates. I have never lost any argument - or fight - that was worth involving myself in.” He leaned back in his chair, tossing his hair from his face. He turned his gaze to the would-be assassin. As he spoke, he pondered what to do with the man. Torture sounded intriguing. He would need to learn who had hired this one. “She may be intelligent, but in my eyes that also means she is strong-willed and clever. Enough to not care that freeing and adopting a slave would upset her sister and her uncle. And let us be honest, it is not difficult for one to be more mature than your uncle.” Small sighs slipped from his four guards. They were nearly inaudible and one could easily assume that the reason was exasperation. Genji knew better. They were amused by his statement and his boldness in making it. Though impossible for a non-Itasan to see, there were small signs that were glaringly obvious to him. In Raiden, the briefest flash of delight in his eyes before returning to its normal inscrutable self. In those behind him, the most minute relaxing as they all mentally laughed.

He spread his arms wide, as if to encompass the entire room - the entire world. “As for beauty? I have yet to find human beauty in Alagaesia. I have no doubt that my standards are considerably different from yours.” He lifted his head slightly and tilted it to the left. “The only benefit I see is what power I might receive from joining with the royal family of Broddring.” Waving a deprecating hand, he looked back at his prisoner as he continued. “Needless to say, this is a crumbling empire and its royal line is not what it once was. Some whisper of our king’s infirmities. Some call him insane. I care not one way or another, so long as whatever may plague him and his family does not interfere with Teirm and its business.” He rose from his seat and stretched. His back popped satisfyingly. Tilting his head from side to side to crack his neck, he said, “Still. I suppose it would be unwise to completely dismiss the offer out of hand. I will consider it and give you my answer at dinner. In the meantime, would you care to freshen up? Your journey has been long and it would be no imposition to offer you and your retinue quarters to rest in before the meal. The decision is, as always, yours to make Lady.”

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{nayeli richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
Long lost words whisper to me
Still can't find what keeps me here
When all this time I've been so hollow inside
I know you're still there...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

”I need no help winning debates. I have never lost any argument - or fight - that was worth involving myself in.” I was beginning to find him slightly annoying, but at the same time, very amusing. He made good points, my sister enjoy getting into mild debates nearly daily, including her family. It was her talent to find something to debate about and always win. I also took a shot at the assassin that was before us, I had a idea of sent them, since Genji was someone who many in Teirm hated. During the Gala I had heard many that wanted him dead. ”And, of course, with links to the Royal Family, the would-be Assassins would not dare bother you.”

[/color] I said, looking into the eyes of the assassin who shuddered at my ice cold glare. Everyone in Alagaesia knew of my cruel ways with prisoners who tried to spy or assassinate me.

”She may be intelligent, but in my eyes that also means she is strong-willed and clever. Enough to not care that freeing and adopting a slave would upset her sister and her uncle. And let us be honest, it is not difficult for one to be more mature than your uncle.” I chuckled loud enough for everyone to hear, looking at him with a half smile. ”You do speak truly there.”[/color] I said to him. I knew my uncle could be as old as idiot when he was sick and as young as a mere two year old. It was rather frustrating, but I knew better then to complain to him. Until I was dead and either my brother or I were in the throne, I would not say anything to him about it. He was the one who got me into the position of honor, which I took very seriously. I glanced at his own guards, but due to the shadows I could not hear any chuckles or see it within’ their own eyes.

I watched as he let his arms spread wide, as if wanting to speak to everyone in the whole room, or the whole city of Teirm. ”As for beauty? I have yet to find human beauty in Alagaesia. I have no doubt that my standards are considerably different from yours.” I smiled slightly, knowing he could possible change his mind when he saw my sister. Her beautiful emerald eyes and long waterfall like hair. Her perfect body and the elf like features she held. Though, I did not like many, she did put many of them to shame. ”The only benefit I see is what power I might receive from joining with the royal family of Broddring.” I smiled slightly, taking a sip of the wine. ”The possibility of a son since all women within’ her family line have had sons first.”[/color] I said. I knew many men wanted just that, the perfect son to carry on their family traditions.

”Needless to say, this is a crumbling empire and its royal line is not what it once was. Some whisper of our king’s infirmities. Some call him insane. I care not one way or another, so long as whatever may plague him and his family does not interfere with Teirm and its business.” I smiled slightly. ”They is a reason no woman had ever said with him, stood with him as his Queen.”[/color] It was the truth. I did not even find the man appealing and I was sure most woman felt the same, however, my mother, his sister, was much more sane and it passed down the line. ”Still. I suppose it would be unwise to completely dismiss the offer out of hand. I will consider it and give you my answer at dinner. In the meantime, would you care to freshen up? Your journey has been long and it would be no imposition to offer you and your retinue quarters to rest in before the meal. The decision is, as always, yours to make Lady.” I smiled.

”Your offer is very kind… I would like to know however… Is there anywhere that I may train, working within’ the castle gives me little time to… Train and I could use a chance to loosen my joints and make sure my skills have not gotten bad.”[/color] I was sure they had not and since he had stood, I stood as well, drinking the last of the wine. I looked at the glass for a moment and smiled. ”Tell me, where is it that you obtain this wine, it is far better then that of this land.”[/color] I said, placing the glass down and then looking back at the mere assassin that had tried to kill someone. The possibility of it being me or Genji was slightly possible, but I did not care, I was sure Genji would be able to find a good form of Torture for the man, after finding who had hired him.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Hunting you, I can smell you - Alive
Your heart pounding in my head
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Saving me; Raping me;
Watching me...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

’word count eight. two. five.
’tagged Genji Lantieri
’song Haunted--! Evanescence
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[Elloria]

("Italics" = Itasu)

Genji was not interested in continuing his bloodline yet. He had barely begun consolidating his power in Teirm. He would worry about siring brats later. Moreover, mental instability ran strongly in that blood. If he were to choose someone from Alagaesia, she would be neither royal nor noble. Inbreeding was less likely to be an issue that way. Nor was he concerned with how long assassination attempts continued. His guards could probably hold their own against even elves, if only for a little while. If they failed, of course, he could always defend himself. And the humans of Alagaesia were generally not trained well enough to stand against them. This latest attempt was proof enough of that. Teirm's forces were gradually becoming better, but Genji held no worries about that either. He had long since gained the loyalty and fearful respect of most of the soldiers. It was just the nobles who were being pesky nuisances. He looked down at the man that was eying him warily. “Of course I have areas set aside for training. They are for Teirm’s military, but I naturally use it as well. The better to teach these weak idiots proper fighting skills. There are two places set aside for this purpose. One is just within the city’s walls. The other one is considerably larger and as such is located perhaps two hundred yards outside the walls to the south.” He moved the katana still strapped to his back to the belt at his waist so that it mirrored his wakizashi’s positioning. He motioned Raiden to step away, which he did. Genji then picked up the larger Alagaesian by the scruff of his shirt and tossed him over his shoulder, earning a startled yelp from the man. “After I hand this incompetent wretch to the jailers, I will take you to the inner practice area. It should be adequate for whatever you intend to do. Nor would I mind joining you. My own training today was not satisfying. It is difficult to find worthy sparring partners in this land.” He began walking out of the hall, faithfully followed by his four guards. “As for the wine, it is made by the Tashima clan of my nation. It is called Tashima Podoju.” He turned slightly and smirked at Nayeli. “The Tashima do not sell their wine to outsiders. Their cousins of the Tanaka clan do, but it is of lower quality. I would rather serve my guests the best, even if they cannot otherwise obtain it.”

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{nayeli richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
Long lost words whisper to me
Still can't find what keeps me here
When all this time I've been so hollow inside
I know you're still there...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

Genji was young, so I was not surprised if he did not want children yet. My sister on the other hand did, she had talked about it many times and she was only seventeen. I doubted I was ready to be a Aunt, but if that happened, I would love them nonetheless. I was, however, grateful I had inherited my mother’s blood and her mother’s blood, since they both held strong minds on that side of the family. ”Of course, I do not blame you… The well known of the family are of course those who have been king, crazy and insane… Not much is known about the women of the family.”

[/color] I said to him. I really did not, everyone, in those outside of Alagaesia knew enough about the Kings before my uncle. They were all crazy for the most part, but the woman and those who took on the traits of their side of blood, well, it was good. My grandmother was a strong woman, but, she was unable to have a say in the family. My mother was likewise, give to a idiot knight who knew nothing but ragged women and knew nothing of the wife he had back home, my mother, who too this day was loyal to him.

Finally, it came to the thoughts on training, which I so desperately needed. ”Of course I have areas set aside for training. They are for Teirm’s military, but I naturally use it as well. The better to teach these weak idiots proper fighting skills. There are two places set aside for this purpose. One is just within the city’s walls. The other one is considerably larger and as such is located perhaps two hundred yards outside the walls to the south.” I nodded to him quickly, looking down at the lowly assassin. I felt kind of bad for the man, knowing he could easily be tortured, but the thought of it mostly amused me. Genji then motioned for his man to step aside, which he did naturally. I heard the yelp and chuckled slightly. He was strong to, something my sister admired in men. ”After I hand this incompetent wretch to the jailers, I will take you to the inner practice area. It should be adequate for whatever you intend to do. Nor would I mind joining you. My own training today was not satisfying. It is difficult to find worthy sparring partners in this land.” I smiled, nodding my head quickly. ”I would be a honor to train with you, Genji.”[/color] I could only hope this man would accept the invitation to marry my sister. She need someone handsome, strong, and well… Stable. This man was it. She could still practice her Diplomacy here with ease and make trips back home, so that would be no problem.

”As for the wine, it is made by the Tashima clan of my nation. It is called Tashima Podoju.” I saw his smirk, my eyes narrowed, but not in a evil way, in more of a, what are you thinking way. ”The Tashima do not sell their wine to outsiders. Their cousins of the Tanaka clan do, but it is of lower quality. I would rather serve my guests the best, even if they cannot otherwise obtain it.” I smiled, looking at the glass once more. ”Another reason for me to want my sister to marry you. Such good wine is something even I would pay handful of gold for.”[/color] I said, smiling at him widely. ”I will rejoin my escorts at the front of the Citadel and tell them we will be staying for dinner. My main Knight will join, if that is alright? And I will send the others to find a Local Inn.”[/color] Dave was the only one I would want to join me for dinner. He was of Royal Blood and good friend of my Brothers.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Hunting you, I can smell you - Alive
Your heart pounding in my head
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Saving me; Raping me;
Watching me...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

’word count six. five. one.
’tagged Genji Lantieri
’song Haunted--! Evanescence
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]`

[Elloria]

Genji's eyes narrowed slightly when she spoke of having children. It was as if she had plucked the thought from his mind and that displeased him. He was not so transparent as that. He said nothing about it, however. It was most likely coincidence that she had mentioned it. And since she quickly said it would be an honor to train with him, he would let the matter of children slide. There was no need to get irritated and petulant about it. Not right now, at least. He could dismantle some furniture later if he needed to.

He turned from her and continued out of the hall, even as she complimented the Tashima Podoju and asked if one of her knights could join them. “I care not,” he replied shortly. He cast a glance at Mami, who split from formation and turned to Nayeli. Bowing low, she said in a lilting accent, “I will escort you back to the entrance hall. It is often confusing for visitors to walk the halls of the Citadel alone. We would not want you getting lost, ne?” At this point, the man Genji carried got over the shock of having such a tiny effeminate man hauling him around and began struggling. Beating upon Genji’s back, the man cursed colorfully. Genji lost all patience with the idiot. With all his not inconsiderable strength, he hurled the man at the opposite wall. The man's head made a satisfying thud as it slammed into the stones. He slid down, leaving a thin trail of blood as his head scraped against the wall. With barely a pause after the man's knees hit the floor, Genji crossed the wide hallway. He gripped the assassin’s collar in both hands and lifted him up. The man was still conscious, but certainly in no condition to fight back as Genji lifted him high so that his toes barely touched the ground. “Urusai, kono bakayaro.” Rikuto tapped the butt of her poleaxe against the ground, expressing the eagerness that all four guards had in seeing Genji angry. So long as it wasn't directed at them - which it never was - it was always amusing to them. “You will wish you had never seen me.” He let go and stepped back as the man fell to his knees again and nearly fell completely over. He stopped him by grabbing the man’s arm. Bracing the man with his knee, Genji pulled the arm straight and taut - then slammed down on the elbow with the open palm of his free hand. The action elicited a high scream from the man. He took the other arm and created a similar setup. “You will wish you had never heard my name.” His free hand snapped down again, creating another scream. He jerked the man’s broken arm so that he fell to the ground. “You will wish for death,” Genji said over the man’s howls. Leaning down, he gripped the shirt again, stepped over the man’s arm, and continued down the hallway to the door that would lead to the dungeons. Hiroshi hurried ahead to open it while Raiden and Rikuto followed behind. “You will not receive it.”

Mami shook her head as Genji and her fellow guards disappeared through the door. “I apologize for that,” she murmured. “It is rare for Genji-sama to lose his temper like that. Today has undoubtedly been most trying to him.” She turned and led Nayeli back the way they had come until they were in the entrance hall once more. Bowing again, Mami took her leave and swiftly made her way to the dungeons.
======
Genji stepped outside the Citadel twenty minutes later, casually adjusting his shirt. He had changed from the emerald set into a plain white one. The change was necessary, for he had bloodied the other one while beating the assassin in the dungeons. He had a mage tending to the man's wounds at the moment, for he was far from done with the wretch. His katana was strapped to his back once more, while the shorter wakizashi still rode upon his left hip. He calmly descended the steps and approached Nayeli in the courtyard. “Are you ready to go?”

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{nayeli richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
Long lost words whisper to me
Still can't find what keeps me here
When all this time I've been so hollow inside
I know you're still there...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

I smiled slightly as I saw his eyes narrow about having children. It had merely been a statement, but it was amusing to see that it slightly displeased him. I was not one for talking about children, that was my sisters area of talk, but I normally cut her out half the time when it came to such talk. It noted that the look vanished after matters went to training. I was honored to train with anyone who had me, unlike my uncle, I at least admired others and their abilities and did not think so highly of myself. I would have to beat myself later for thinking of such matters as children. It to me was a nasty subject, but I just pushed it aside for now.

After a moment, I asked if my Knight would be able to join us, his words were quick and short. It was something else that seemed to come with this man. At least I knew my sister would be able to talk a lot without interruptions. ”I care not,” I watched as he turned his back and I smiled slightly, looking at a woman who came over towards me. ”I will escort you back to the entrance hall. It is often confusing for visitors to walk the halls of the Citadel alone. We would not want you getting lost, ne?” I smiled politely. I knew how to be polite to people, so that was not very hard to do. ”Ah, the help would be appreciated.”

[/color] I said to her, before I noticed that the man was thrashing like a while man, hitting Genji back. I was suddenly engrossed in the scene as I watched it unfold before me.

It was not long before the man hit the wall, hard and the sound of his head hitting the wall was a beautiful sound to my own ears. I smiled wickedly at the man, watching as Genji had lost his own patients with the man. I would have too, but I would have already cut into his body, making him bleed terribly. It was so sad that the wall had to be painted red with blood, but I was sure it would be clean by time dinner came to this place. I watched as Genji grabbed the man by the collar and lifted him up against the wall. The man was not gonna be able to fight, which was highly entertaining. ”Urusai, kono bakayaro.” I tilted my head in slight confusion, for the words were new to me, but I just ignored them for a moment. From the sound of it, they were not words for the ears of women, but then again, I had heard my fair share within’ the castle in Carvala.

I glanced at his guards quickly, seeing in all a taste of Amusement. It was good for the guards to see amusement and the fact that they all seemed highly comfortable with each other, just showed they were all friends. It was almost like myself and Dave, we knew each others moves better then even his men because of our long time friendship. ”You will wish you had never seen me.” I watched as he let the man fall to his knee, almost falling completely over. As he grabbed the man by the arm, I was suddenly intrigued with his next move. He had the man dangling by the arm nearly and I narrowed my eyes in interest. Soon, I watched as the hand went for the elbow and heard the clear snap and the yelling of pain from a broken arm. I smiled in even more amusement.

I was beginning to like this man even more as he seemed to be my kind of man. He was dangerous, but at the same time, stable and not over controlled with his power. If I was not here for my sister, I would have been flirting myself, but I was no good at such things and figured it would be best that I kept to myself and forgot about marriage. It would not come to me anyway, it would merely come to other siblings. ”You will wish you had never heard my name.” I watched as the other arm was broken, the screams of pain that came from him and the pleading. I could hear it in his voice. As he howled, I watched Genji, making the words out from where I stood on his lips. ”You will wish for death,” It was words I knew well from when I was in my own Dungeons, threatening those who had attacked my own family. I watched as he drug the man towards the door that I was sure lead to the lower levels of the Citadel and heard his words one last time. ”You will not receive it.” I could not help but smile slightly and then turned back to the woman.

“I apologize for that,”[/i] I waved it off with ease. ”It is rare for Genji-sama to lose his temper like that. Today has undoubtedly been most trying to him.” I looked at her for a moment. ”It was rather entertaining if I had to say so myself.”[/color] I said to her as we walked, getting to the entrance hall quickly and what I thought was easy. I had remembered the way with ease, but I followed, and soon, I was outside with my men. I instructed most to leave to a local Inn. ”Go and eat, drink, but be ready to ride when I give the word. We may stay over night, however, such a thing is rare.”[/color] I said, glancing at Dave who nodded. Dave knew that I did not care to stay in places other then my own home more then a day, so he just ushered his men away.

”How did the audience go, Milady?” I looked at him with a shrug. ”He seems slightly uninterested in the proposal, but he is gonna think on it. If he refuses, I will have to continue my search for a notable person… I have a fear Leilani has a secret Admirer and one that will cause this family a lot of grief.”[/color] He looked at me funny, but I ignored him. We spoke for a moment more and then I turned to see Genji coming down the stairs. It had not taken long, but he had changed. ”Did you have fun?”[/color] I asked him, knowing he had probably tortured the man into a inch of his life. I smiled slightly, a smile that showed that I found such things amusing.

“Are you ready to go?” I turned to Dave who bowed swiftly and mounted his horse, taking off at a high gallop. I rolled my eyes slightly. He was always showing off for me, mostly because he picked that I was no good with a horse and I thought I was pretty good myself. I turned back to Genji. ”Yes, I am tired of doing nothing… I need to get in a good days training.”[/color] I said to him before we started walking towards the ground.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Hunting you, I can smell you - Alive
Your heart pounding in my head
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Saving me; Raping me;
Watching me...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

’word count one. one. eight. seven.
’tagged Genji Lantieri
’song Haunted--! Evanescence
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[Elloria]

Mami had already informed Genji of Nayeli's reaction to his behavior. He was mildly intrigued by it. Most people did not find torturing another human being amusing. Those that did tended to be somewhat psychopathic. He did not answer her question, however. He merely ran a hand through his hair, rubbing the crown of his head slightly as he looked back on his ‘session.’ It had been cathartic, but he would not say it was fun. Punishing incompetence and squashing insurrection was a necessary part of his work. But there was nothing honorable - or ‘fun’ - about it. He kept his disdainful gaze upon the sole knight that had remained with Nayeli, who bowed and mounted his horse. He snorted as the man wheeled the horse about and took off at a full gallop. The knight apparently had something to prove, which was idiotic. How well you could handle a horse was inconsequential unless it was in battle. And Genji had little use for knights and cavalry. When the knight had gone, Nayeli spoke. “Yes, I am tired of doing nothing… I need to get in a good days training.”

Again, he said nothing. He simply started walking out of the courtyard. Nayeli walked beside him. Rikuto, Mami, Raiden and Hiroshi took up their usual diamond formation, spreading out slightly to encompass Nayeli as well. They made their way through the bustling streets of Teirm towards the eastern entrance to the city. Most visitors came from the north or south, leaving the eastern end mostly unused. Genji had ordered the decrepit buildings in that area to be either torn down or renovated for the training area he'd set up. He’d had the earth tamped down and salted so that nothing could grow within the the facility, save for the gardens set aside for the infirmary. All that separated the facility from the nearest residential houses was perhaps one hundred and fifty yards of grass. There were dozens of soldiers scattered around within the compound, all involved in various types of training. Numerous soldiers were also in the open grass ‘outside.’

As they entered the actual compound, he explained the setup to Nayeli. “Unlike the southern facility, this one was set up similarly to the fields of the Academy of Itasus.” He swept his hand across the space before them. “As you can see, it’s a predominantly open area. Those posts to the left are set up for martial arts practice. Directly ahead is the area for working with various melee weaponry. In the far back right corner you’ll find permanent archery targets.” He jerked a thumb at the large pavilion beside them. “This is where we change and clean up before or after practice. Against the far back wall are racks of nearly every weapon imaginable. That building in the back left corner is the infirmary." Turning slightly, he gestured towards the soldiers in the grass. “That space is generally used for meditation.” He looked at Nayeli. He ignored the occasional soldier that walked by and saluted him. Likewise did he ignore the glances they were receiving. He knew it was unusual for him to return after one training session. It was doubly odd that he would have 'company' with him. “Where do you wish to begin?”

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{nayeli richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
Long lost words whisper to me
Still can't find what keeps me here
When all this time I've been so hollow inside
I know you're still there...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

I found it highly amusing to watch people tortured because they were spying or trying to kill me. If they did something to me, they were going to die painfully… or, never die at all. I guess you could call me slightly crazy because of it, but I was not going to let other people torture. If it was my own family, I would feel differently, but other then that, people who dared to do anything to my family, would answer to me. Nyx knew my uncle would not even do anything, he was more concerned about his own thing, sometimes his family did not matter.

As he came down, he did not answer about the torturing and I smiled slightly. He has a heart… He does not enjoy torturing.

[/color] I thought to myself, or that was what I was gaining from his silence. After he came, we went to the grounds, I followed in silence and smiled as I saw the butt of the horse that Dave went off on. He was crazy, but he was a friend and I loved him for being so stupid. As we walked, his guards moved to surround the both of us. I did not need their protection, I was highly training and had taken care of myself many times with assassins and people trying to kill me, it was a skill I acquired from somewhere in my family.

Teirm was the same as any major city within’ the kingdom, always crowded and constantly awake. It probably never slept. Sure, at night, it was possible quieter, but things were probably still going on to make sure things ran smoothly the next day. I glanced around, seeing a few shadowed faces as we walked and remembering them for the walk back to the Citadel. I was please to see that the training area was large, however, I could vaguely remember old homes once standing further out then these were. I had a feeling he had torn them down for this project, possible a good idea since not many used the east side of the town anymore because the main gates were on the North and South and the west was for the docks. I noted a few garden where the infirmary should be located and then we were their. I counted at least forty-seven soldiers training around the area.

After a moment, we stopped and I looked around. ”Unlike the southern facility, this one was set up similarly to the fields of the Academy of Itasus.” I nodded, seeing that it was different the ground back home, but I could see many familiar things. Some a bit too familiar… I had been trained by the best and each weapon I saw I had seen some way or another. ”As you can see, it’s a predominantly open area. Those posts to the left are set up for martial arts practice. Directly ahead is the area for working with various melee weaponry. In the far back right corner you’ll find permanent archery targets.” I nodded quickly, looking at each and smiling slightly. Archry targets were also good for throwing daggers. Not many people could hit a bulls eyes, but it was something I had trained to do with mere perfection. My bed post at home were littered with holes from when I came in and sent them flying at the wood post. My brother complained I would one day be the end of the bed. ”This is where we change and clean up before or after practice. Against the far back wall are racks of nearly every weapon imaginable. That building in the back left corner is the infirmary." I nodded quickly, noticing many were on the grasses. It was sad to think many had been put near the infirmary, but if they could not take a beating, then they needed to be tossed back into normal arms and sent to the next battlefield and man up. ”That space is generally used for meditation.” I nodded. I had never done that before, but he probably had. “Where do you wish to begin?” I looked around for a moment and then looked towards the target. ”Target practice.”[/color] I said, but I held no bow, nor any arrows.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Hunting you, I can smell you - Alive
Your heart pounding in my head
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Saving me; Raping me;
Watching me...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

’word count seven. one. zero.
’tagged Genji Lantieri
’song Haunted--! Evanescence
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[Elloria]

As Nayeli declared she wished to work with the targets, Genji began making his way across the field. He assumed she had no desire to change out of her current attire and he was already dressed for sparring. Weaving through the various sparring pairs on the field, he led her to the back of the training area which was flush against the city's wall. His four guards dropped back behind Nayeli as they moved forward, splitting away one by one. Rikuto head towards a few pairs working with spears while Raiden made for the martial arts section. Hiroshi turned immediately for the archery targets. Mami continued to follow. When they reached the back wall, Genji selected an asymmetrical long bow, a quiver of arrows, and a four-fingered glove. Slinging the quiver onto his back, he gestured at the wall. “Pick whatever bow or weapon you wish to use. I know Raiden sometimes uses daggers here, though the martial posts are a bit better for that.” He shrugged and moved to stand at the line drawn ten yards from the first target. Mami knelt just behind him.

The ten targets were staggered anywhere from ten to seventy yards from the line. Genji unwrapped the bow, he strung it, then slipped the glove onto his right hand before gently testing the string. It had been some time since he had worked with a bow, but it was always good to brush up on one's skills. Unless one knew him very well, though, it would be difficult to see the slight unfamiliarity he had with the equipment. Satisfied, he settled into a wide balanced stance and went through each step of his Academy training. Lined up with the thirty-yard target, he made the rest of his body parallel with that line and straightened his back. He plucked an arrow from the quiver and prepared the bow. Raising the bow above his head, he slowly lowered it until it was even with his eyebrows. As it lowered, the gap between string and bow widened. He continued down to just below his cheekbone, achieving a full draw at last. Only a slight tilt could be seen in the bow’s positioning. He held this pose for only a moment before releasing the arrow. As expected, it flew straight and true to the thirty-yard target - striking just inside the center circle of the target.

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{nayeli richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
Long lost words whisper to me
Still can't find what keeps me here
When all this time I've been so hollow inside
I know you're still there...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

My own outfit was something I wore for events just like this, something I had had made for my days of training and killing. I had killed before, however, it was before I became a Countess and now, it was mostly within the dungeons below my feet of the throne room, where countless spies and assassins were held to die. It was a wondering no one had tried to kill me recently… Maybe it was because so many had gone missing after coming to me.

As we moved across the field, I had to also weave through the many pair who were fighting together. It looked like a art and I smiled. I knew it was an art, it great art to kill someone when needed. My sister, she did not see it that way and honestly, marrying a man who seemed to enjoy it, she probably would learn to like it. As we finally got their, each guard went their own way, but two did come with us. Genji chose a long bow and a quiver of arrows. I was not to good with a long bow or a bow period, but I did have the training with them. I just could never hit the middle, unlike I could with the daggers. ”Pick whatever bow or weapon you wish to use. I know Raiden sometimes uses daggers here, though the martial posts are a bit better for that.” I looked at each bow, carefully examining each before I picked a slightly shorter bow then Genji.

I looked at the targets and tested the string silently. I had not shot a bow in some time, but the feeling of having the weapon in my hands had not left me. I was careful, easy to move it in my own palm. ”There is a reason the trainers pushed me away from the bow. I could hit the target, but I never once got the middle, so after a month of training, they put me back with the blades.”

[/color] I said to him, not caring if he answered or not. I watched as he took his shot and hit the center, but I took my stance, looking at the same target. I held the string with two fingers, my hand rested on my cheek, allowing me to see down the shaft of the arrow and the point that would at least go into the target. I left both eyes open, so I could see the target fully, but the eye that was looking down the shaft was the one doing the true calculating.

I let my fingers release and the arrow flew towards the target, but as normal, it did not hit the center, only two circle rings above Genji’s. I was not very surprised, so as I let the bow rest on my foot, I sent my own dagger flying towards the bow, the flick of my wrist and arm was powerful and it flew towards the center, hitting only a few hair strands under Genji’s arrow. ”That felt better then using the bow.”[/color] I looked at the bow one more, examining it closely and then putting it back. ”Post are great, but they never have that small center target that is much better to hit.”[/color] I said, looking at the dagger and the arrow. I never liked the bow, but my brother could use any weapon, which was a good thing. My sister, she knew how to use the dagger, but she hated to use it.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Hunting you, I can smell you - Alive
Your heart pounding in my head
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Saving me; Raping me;
Watching me...
Watching me; Wanting me;
I can feel you pull me down
Fearing you; Loving you;
I won't let you pull me down

’word count five. eight. six.
’tagged Genji Lantieri
’song Haunted--! Evanescence
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[Elloria]

Genji watched with detached amusement as Nayeli let loose her arrow. Her form, like many Alagaesians, was off. Anyone could learn to use a bow properly. It was simply a matter of having the proper teacher. And the proper frame of mind for it. “Your trainers obviously were not good enough then,” he remarked mildly. “If they failed to teach a skill as important as kyujutsu. A student’s skills must be balanced before they progress to specialization.” However, he could not deny her skill with a dagger. It had landed just beneath his arrow - and at that distance, that was a remarkable feat indeed. Akin to Raiden's skills, even. He would never say such a gratuitous compliment aloud, nor give any indication that he had thought it. He was, instead, interested in something else now. Flicking his gaze to Mami, he silently ordered her to retrieve the arrows and dagger. She complied without complaint as Genji moved to pick up the bow Nayeli had put away, leaving his own leaned against the wall.

With bow in hand, he grabbed Nayeli's wrist and pulled her so that she standing directly in front of the target they'd just aimed at. “Kyujutsu, like any skill, is an art form. And while not everyone can be exceptional at it, anyone can learn to be exceptional. It starts with proper form.” Leaning the short bow beside his, he moved back and stood behind Nayeli. He positioned her so that she stood in profile in a relatively straight line, her left side towards the target. With his legs, he nudged her stance wider, using his feet to approximate the angle hers should be at. His voice was hushed as he leaned back slightly, pulling her with to arch her back. “One of the keys is balanced posture. Make sure your stance is wider than your shoulders, your feet angled to create a V-shape.” He stepped away, grabbed the bow and an arrow, then returned to his position behind her. He took her left hand and wrapped it around the bow, then leaned into her to take her right hand and grip the bowstring and arrow with it. When he was certain she had a solid grip on each, he lifted her arms to shoulder level. “You then turn your gaze to the target.” He stepped back slightly so that she had room to do so, leaving the slightest hold upon her arms. “Next is the draw itself.” He lifted her arms above her head with gentle nudging. Once at the proper height, he gripped her wrists tightly and pulled them apart while lowering them. He did not pause at her eyebrows, continuing down to her cheeks until her hand was pulled just before her right ear. His voice was a slight whisper in her ear, more breath than sound. “And then you release.” He let go of her wrists as she released the bowstring. His hands hovered near her arms, keeping them in place with the lightest touch as the arrow arced towards the post - and landed just outside the center circle of the target. Once it had landed, he stepped completely away from her. “An art form, as taught to us in the halls of the Academy.” He shrugged. “Though in battle such perfect style is impractical, the basics you can pull from it are applicable on and off the field.”