wishing...

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{leilani richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
Come on closer, I wanna show you
What I'd like to do, You sit back now
Just relax now, I'll take care of you
Hot temptations, Sweet sensations
Infiltrating through, Sweet sensations
Hot temptations, Coming over you

”If we were to do that, it would be murder on our people, there is no point in even considering such a thing.”

[/color] I said, my body stood over the table as I stared down the man before me. My eyes held the emerald color of the elf and my body did not even move as they lingered on the man in a death glare. My eyes held a pink color shadow that went around them and kohl outlined my eyes with perfection. Red, glossy paint I wore on my lips and I wore a beautiful pink gown. It was strapless, my shoulders were bear and it moved with my body perfectly. It flowed down my body and over her body without even a last thought before it hit the ground at the bottom, moving across the stone as I walked around the table. ”Everyone knows the elves are stronger then us, if we dare to attack them, we will all die and I do not plan on seeming my home destroyed because of you ignoramus.”[/color] I spoke loud enough that if I were a dragon it would rattle the glass in the windows. He looked at me with evil in his own eyes and seemed to want to speak, but he did not.

It was over and I had made my own point, turning and grabbing my things, which was not a whole lot, but it was enough and I needed all of it if I was to get things done. I let out a sigh, pushing my black hair from my face as I moved out the room and into the large castle that I had come to call my home. I took in a breath and then leaned against the stone wall, looking out the open window at the garden below. It was a beautiful day! The sun was out and full, the flowers were causing even me to get high on their scents. I pulled out a letter, many from Awiti that she had written to me so many days ago. She spoke of Darek a lot in her letters, which was nice because she was learning so much. She was taking so many classes and she was even opening up more! I took in a breath as I heard foot steps and turned to see who was coming, it was Sean, my guard, though I wished my sister would silence him and make him guard someone else, but she seemed determined.

I turned and headed further down the halls, turning quickly to head down the stairs towards the court yard, I wanted to move as fast as I could, away from him. Sure, I had once liked him, had wanted nothing more then him to court me, but since he had learned of my need to want Darek, it had changed slightly. He was more protective, as if he thought Darek would come up around the corner without a second thought. I wished such a thing would happen and as I got into the court yard, I picked a pink rose just to think about him. I let out a breath as I finally settled on the ground under the large oak tree that shadowed the beautiful yard. My sister I was sure was busy today and honestly I wish I had time to get my things together and go to Ilirea, but doing that would only mean they would follow.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Gonna take it slow babe, Do it my way
Keep your eyes on me. Your reaction
To my action is what I want to see
Rhythmic motion, Raw emotion
Infiltrating through, Sweet sensations
Hot temptations, Coming over you

’word count five. seven. five.
’tagged none has come
’song Come on Closer--! Jem
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[phrostphyre]

Blue eyes glared daggers at the elf in front of Leilani. And not just any daggers. Poisoned daggers, because that’s how much Sean disliked this particular elf. The bastard was arrogant, which was common enough among elves, but he took it too damned far. Yes, you were good with weapons. But what about when pain was simply a factor that increased the bloodlust of an enemy? Damnable elves. Arrogant asses. Sean continued glaring poisoned daggers at him, visioning many grisly deaths. Normally, Sean wasn’t a very morbid person. Elves just brought it out. That and an almost irresistible desire to burn everything in sight. He couldn’t explain that part, just that it was elves. Almost like he was allergic to them.

Leilani stormed out. Sean shot the elf one last glare, and then followed silently. The damned vampire thing that had followed Leilani relentlessly for several months was gone. Sean didn’t care one way or the other; he was simply doing his job; that of a belligerent, tireless, and relentless guard dog. With a sword. This thought led him to musing on the vagaries of fate, love, and how the animals had come to be. His nose twitched, and he fingered the slightly crooked thing. Leilani seemed unnaturally sad. It was not often Sean sang; quite often, when he did, it was a marching tune or drinking song. But he knew several of the others, as he termed love songs or just songs not about battle or drinking. His usually deep voice lightened into a fine tenor, strong and soft. Without the accompanying music, Sean did the best he could.
” Buachaill ón Éirne me 's bhréagfainn cailín deas óg
Ní iarrfainn bó spré léI tá mé fhéin saibhir go leor
'S liom Corcaigh da mhéid é, dhá thaobh a' ghleanna 's Tír Eoghain
'S mura n-athraí mé béasaí 's me n' t-oidhr' ar Chontae Mhaigh Eo

Come by the hills to the land where fancy is free
And stand where the peaks meet the sky and the loughs meet the sea
Where the rivers run clear and the bracken is gold in the sun
And the cares of tomorrow can wait till this day is done

Come by the hills to the land where life is a song
And stand where the birds fill the air with their joy all day long
Where the trees sway in time and even the wind sings in tune
And the cares of tomorrow can wait till this day is done

Come by the hills to the land where legend remains
The stories of old fill our hearts and may yet come again
Where the past has been lost and the future is still to be won
And the cares of tomorrow can wait till this day is done

And the cares of tomorrow can wait till this day is done.[/color] Sean stopped abruptly. He coughed self consciously, then moved to kneel beside Leilani.
”C’mon, lassie. You’re seventeen. He was near twa hundred, and I am near twenty-six. Go find yourself a laddie your age. Live and learn, before you commit yourself to anything. You’re still finding yourself; don’t commit to anything now. Now, where are we going next? The stables? The gardens?”[/b]

[Elloria]

Genji looked around in distaste as he rode through the capital of the Broddring Empire on his roan stallion. They were traversing what was known as Lowtower and it was utterly squalid. He had thought that Teirm’s slums were disgusting. Not even the slave trade center was this dilapidated. At least he was not expected to remain in this area. He felt wretched enough after weeks of travel. He had grown soft during his reign. He knew this well. There had been a time when rough traveling, as they had just done, would not have fazed him or Raiden. But fourteen years was a long time indeed. So he was almost desperate for the company to arrive at the palace so he could just find somewhere to clean up properly. And he did not wish to consider the fact that he would need to make the return trip in the near future. He shuddered. Next time, he was traveling in a carriage - reputation be damned!

These thoughts carried him through Lowtown and up to the palace gates themselves. He pulled lightly on the reins of his mount, bringing it to a stop just outside the castle belonging to the most powerful man in Carvala. Whether said man was the most powerful in all of Broddring was another matter entirely, but Genji chose to keep that thought to himself. He had kept much to himself during the journey, retreating into his usual aloofness to mull over his current situation. Not even Raiden had been able to pull much from the Count. Nayeli paused beside him for a moment before continuing into the courtyard without a word. Genji was silently grateful that she had done so. He gently urged his roan to follow her and the company made its way into the courtyard gardens.

As they passed the gates, an...odd sound greeted them. At least, it was odd to Genji. It sounded like a strong tenor singing, but the words were initially unrecognizable. It wasn't until the voice slipped into a more recognizable Common that Genji realized his initial assessment had been correct. And the view he soon found himself watching only furthered his assumption. A man was crooning to a woman in the gardens. He assumed the man was a guard or suitor of some sort because the woman looked strikingly like Nayeli. The same black wavy hair, similar facial structure, similar body type. The greatest difference he could see was the skin color and the eyes. While Nayeli was darker with blue eyes, this woman was light-skinned - like many Broddring nobles - with green eyes. He was quite underwhelmed by her, just as he had been by Nayeli.

Nayeli dismounted as silence descended. The group’s approach had not gone unnoticed. Nayeli came over to him. “Wait here while I greet my sister and introduce you to her.” She turned and moved over to the other woman without even waiting for his confirmation. He sighed in irritation as he dismounted. Raiden followed his example and moved to stand just behind him. “Please try to remain courteous, Kazan-sama. I know you are angry, but this could potentially further your plans for Itasus,” the guard murmured in their native tongue. Genji flicked his head to carelessly toss his hair from his face. His mood could certainly be described as angry, but irritation really was closer to the mark. He spoke and acted when angered. Silence often marked his irritation and cold silences at that. His foot tapped out a quiet rhythm as he waited for Nayeli to call him over. The sooner this was dealt with, the better.

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{leilani richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
Come on closer, I wanna show you
What I'd like to do, You sit back now
Just relax now, I'll take care of you
Hot temptations, Sweet sensations
Infiltrating through, Sweet sensations
Hot temptations, Coming over you

Ever since Darek had come around, this man had tried his hardest to follow me everywhere, night and day and I was lucky he did not come into my chambers to watch me sleep, because he would find me not sleeping, but watching the stars and moon, reading a book, or writing letters to Awiti and Darek. He never replied, but I knew he read them and Awiti told me she saw him read them. I wanted so badly to be held in his arms again, I missed him so much and I had yet to make a point to go and visit him or Awiti. I knew I had to one day, she was hoping for that so much and my little sister was growing up.

As I moved through the hallways before going to the garden, I could hear Sean following close behind, which was rather annoying if you really wanted to think about it. His singing could be heard and honestly I did not want to hear it. As he got closer, I felt like plugging my ears so tight and never had to hear it again. Darek had a beautiful voice… No, it was beyond beautiful! I wanted to hear it so badly that as I tried to knock Sean’s voice out, I could faintly hear his own. Oh, Darek… Please come back to me.

[/color] My silent begs would never be heard, of that I was sure. Soon, he was facing me, knelt down before me looking at me. ”C’mon, lassie. You’re seventeen.” I looked at him for a moment. ”He was near twa hundred, and I am near twenty-six. Go find yourself a laddie your age.” I wrinkled my nose. There was no boy my age who I would even consider dating or even getting married to.

I let out a sigh for a moment, my emerald eyes looked so much like those of the elves, so many had told me that. ”Live and learn, before you commit yourself to anything. You’re still finding yourself; don’t commit to anything now. Now, where are we going next? The stables? The gardens?” He always wanted to keep me doing stuff now, as if it would help me. My older sister was trying hard to convince me to marry, as was everyone else. Turin seemed to leave me alone, mostly because he knew of Darek and me wanting to be together and he actually liked him. ”I don’t feel like it Sean, but thank you for the offer.”[/color] I said, pulling out a small book that I had been reading before the debate, however, it did not last long as I heard hooves hitting the cobble ground and then saw my sister speaking with someone before coming to me. I stood, looked at Sean before waving him off, he knew I did not like to be crowded and my sister was here, I was safe with her.

”Hello Leilani.”[/color] I greeted with a hug before pulling away, looking at my sister. Her tan skin had darkened since our last encounter and I would make note to mention it and her hair was pulled back into a tight pony-tail, which was straight, not a single strain was out of place. She daggers were all in their normal places, I was able to feel one at her wrist, noticed that one was on her hip and her sword was on her other side. I looked at her ice blue eyes with my own bright emerald eyes… My elven like eyes then went to the men behind her, still standing a bit far away. ”Hello Nayeli.”[/color] I said to her, happy to see her, but wondering who the strangers were that had entered the courtyard. Not many came into this yard since it was mostly for just me and my siblings, along with our parents.

I pushed back my hair, the wavy black hair moved slightly as I pushed it back with my fingers. I ran my hand over my pink dress, looking at her for a moment and then back towards the people. She glanced back slightly. ”I want to introduce you to someone.”[/color] She motioned for the man to come forth and he did, along with another man with him. ”Leilani, this is Genji Lantieri, count of Teirm.”[/color] I nodded to him, gave a courteous curtsy in respect to him and then looked at him with a hard, but at the same time, soft gaze, a smile forming on my face slightly. ”Count Lantieri, this is my Sister, Leilani Richards.”[/color] I looked at her for a moment, unknown as to why she was here, but I had business with her before I continued to welcome the man.

”Nayeli… Excuse me Count Lantieri…”[/color] I nodded my head, in need to speak with my sister for a moment about a different matter. ”I had some words today with Diplomat Donaldson, and he is bound and determined to attack the Elven Nation. I find that highly reckless and stupid, I ensure that you will put him in his place, I have already put him in his place in the Court Hall.”[/color] Nayeli quickly nodded, looking back to Genji and then back towards me. ”I will go and see to him at once… Our Kingdom can barely take a few riots in the streets with the way Uncle is running things and I don’t feel like losing my home because of stupidity.”[/color] I nodded to her and then she went off quickly and left Myself, Sean, Count Lantieri and his own man with me. I looked to him, replacing my smile onto his face. ”I am sorry, business in this place never ends, no matter how much Nayeli and I wish to want it.”[/color] I said to him, before motioning to a stone bench. ”Please sit… What brings you to Carvala?”[/color] I asked, figuring the man had a reason though not knowing it for myself. I then remembered my manners quickly and motioned to Sean. ”Forgive me, this is Sean MacLaren, my friend and personal guard.”[/color] I said, a smile on my face before looking back at Genji.

[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Gonna take it slow babe, Do it my way
Keep your eyes on me. Your reaction
To my action is what I want to see
Rhythmic motion, Raw emotion
Infiltrating through, Sweet sensations
Hot temptations, Coming over you

’word count one. zero. two. four.
’tagged sean sviodson maclaren; genji lantieri
’song Come on Closer--! Jem
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[phrostphyre]

Sean stood and waited silently. He eyed the man approaching warily. Undoubtedly he carried several concealed Itasan weapons. But Sean reassured himself he was still as accurate and fast with his throwing axes as his father had been: Fast and accurate enough to serve as his grandfather’s guard. Sean could throw two, then be closing as he threw the third, and be on top of the enemy with his sword as the last hit.
He nodded respectfully to the man when Leilani introduced him, then spoke. ”Count. I am Sean Sviodson MacLaren. I bid you good day, and well come.”[/b] Sean stepped back, into the shadows, and silently sighed. He was thinking of running, or deserting. Not out of cowardice, but simple stubbornness. He wasn’t expected to fight off super-natural vampires with honest to Lugh super speed and strength, and wings, for Dagda’s sake, was he? No. Not in the job description, mate. No, what Sean recalled it being in his oath was: “Any duties detailed by the King or duly appointed officials, to further protect the Kingdom from any enemy, internal or external, save that which requires magic to completely defeat.” Yes, that Darek thing definitely needed a good dose of fireballs raining upon him to defeat him. Or perhaps a poisoned blade in the night. Or both? Both would probably work best, Sean decided. His blue eyes switched from the Count to the Count’s guard, and Sean nodded again, recognizing another professional. At least so far as a mercenary was professional.

[Elloria]

Genji watched the exchange between the sisters with a faint feeling of nausea. He had never been a particularly affectionate individual, save with his mother. And his brothers certainly had not been interested in doling out love or affection. It was one of the things he especially despised about Alagaesians - as if he needed more reasons to hate them. They were clingy and touchy for the most part, which was so unlike his mother's people. He felt a tap at his shoulder and turned his head slightly to look at Raiden. “What?” he muttered in Itasu. A slight grin lit up Raiden's face as he replied. “Have you examined Leilani-sama’s bodyguard? I believe he is taller than I. He would be attractive if not for that beard. It’s not even the same color as his hair. And is he wearing a skirt of some sort?” They both eyed the tall, blonde man standing respectfully behind Leilani and Nayeli. “Are those axes he’s carrying? How brutish. Do you think he would pose a challenge to us?”

Genji scoffed quietly. He knew there had been a reason for bringing Raiden along rather than one of the women. He was amusing in a more reserved fashion that was better suited to Genji's tastes. However, he did not reply for Nayeli chose that moment to call him over. He moved over to them, his fluid graceful movements indicating his foreign origins. Raiden followed behind. Their loose capris made slight swishing noises as they walked. Neither man missed the wary gaze that the guard behind the sisters cast them and Genji's left hand unconsciously moved to the hilt of his katana, Seisui, strapped on his left hip. The blonde giant was undoubtedly one of the Savage Faithful he had heard so much about. The thought did not please him. Raiden nudged Genji slightly, drawing the Count's attention back to Leilani. The guard was amused by the contradictory look the woman gave his master - the harsh yet gentle smile that quirked her lips was intriguing. Her hair is a lovely color, with a delightful sheen, he thought idly. And such strange eyes...I do not believe I have seen such a coloration in Teirm. His eyes quickly flicked over her before returning his attention to her guard. He, on the other hand, is a dangerous individual. I suppose he would strike with the axes first. Does he throw them or merely use them like a sword? But he carries a sword...if he's of the Faithful, perhaps he's one of their axe-throwers. And there are three. His hands disappeared as his long sleeves slipped over them. His fingers toyed at the katakiriha concealed at his wrists. It might be possible to dodge at least two of the three, for he's certain to throw them all. Raiden met the man’s gaze steadily, noting that the blond acknowledged him after having greeted the Count. He gave a snort that was hopefully just loud enough for the man to hear before flicking his eyes back to Genji in a clear dismissal of this Sean Sviodson MacLaren. What a mouthful. Are there no sane individuals outside of Itasus?

As these thoughts turned through Raiden's head, Genji was busy with his own internal battle. His eyes had narrowed slightly as Leilani attended to business with Nayeli. She could have easily brought it up before he came over. Yet she chose now to reveal this pressing issue? He hated when people dallied about business like that. And his mood was certainly not improving from there. The disdain remained clearly etched on his face as she apologized. “Such is the nature of ruling,” he replied. His voice was its usual smooth clear tenor, a slight accent coloring his speech. “But I have no desire to sit. I have been riding since the sun rose and wish to allow blood flow to return to them.” He was about to answer her question when she immediately moved to introduce her guard. As if he honestly cared who the man was. His hand was still on Seisui's hilt and he unconciously gripped it harder. He glanced at Sean Sviodson MacLaren - where did these people come up with such bizarre names? - and gave a slight jerk of his head as a way of acknowledging Sean's existence. His anger grew slowly before Raiden took a step towards him and whispered, “Remember, Kazan-sama. Tempted though I know you are to infuriate her by informing her of why we are present, you agreed to let Nayeli-sama tell her.[/b][/i][/color]” He could feel the gentle brush of Raiden's hand against his own, silently urging restraint on Genji's part. His entire body tensed before he forced himself to relax. With a sigh, he turned his disdainful glare upon Leilani. “I am here at your sister’s request. If you wish to know why, perhaps you should wait until she returns and can explain it to you.”

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{leilani richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
Come on closer, I wanna show you
What I'd like to do, You sit back now
Just relax now, I'll take care of you
Hot temptations, Sweet sensations
Infiltrating through, Sweet sensations
Hot temptations, Coming over you

I felt that Nayeli and Turin were the only family I had and I loved them dearly for it, I wanted so much to tell her about how things had been, how much those ignorant fools had been trying to make due with attack the elven nation. I knew such a attack would only prove to be deadly for all those who were apart of this Kingdom, the elves would kill everything, they were already angry at us and our relations were not at all something to be tampered with. I knew that Nayeli did not care for them much, but she tried to respect them as much as she could. As Nayeli spoke to me, I found my eyes wonder towards the two who had come with her.

One looked me over strangely and I did not know why as they approached. I was not one for allowing many to look upon me. Unlike my sister, I did not care to have my hips shown so perfectly, at least my dress had some what of a modest look to it, even if the sleeves were not on my shoulders, but on my upper arm. I fiddled slightly with the ribbon I had been using to mark my pages, still holding the pink rose I had picked up for myself. As I saw one man’s and touch his sword unconsciously, I glanced at Sean, hoping he would just leave it be. If my sister brought these men, then they were find. As she introduced us, I had a feeling everything would be fine.

I went quickly to the business I needed to deal with, not knowing why my sister had to be so quick to introduce us to the men. I then finally turned my attention to Genji as my sister left, happy she would deal with the Diplomat that wanted so much to attack the elves. As I spoke to him, I saw some disdain on his face and I mentally noted it. ”Such is the nature of ruling,” I shrugged. I had never wanted such a title, unlike my sister who enjoyed ruling, I had no care for it. As I offered his seat, I looked back up at him. ”But I have no desire to sit. I have been riding since the sun rose and wish to allow blood flow to return to them.” I smiled slightly. ”Ah yes… The joys of riding a horse a long way… I don’t enjoy it myself, but it is better then be cramped in a carriage.”

[/color] I said to him, putting my book down and glancing back at Sean, waving him away slightly. I did not like being crowded, it felt odd and I was crowded enough as a Diplomat.

As the two before me exchanged something, I waited patiently. I did not mind waiting, I was use to the whispers of this life, people did it all the time, no matter what. I saw him return his gaze, though it was more of a glare than anything, I tried ignoring that fact. “I am here at your sister’s request. If you wish to know why, perhaps you should wait until she returns and can explain it to you.” I nodded, looking down slightly. ”Might as well… So, Genji… If I am not mistaken, you are the count of Teirm… Not the best of cities, of course, there is no nice city left in this Kingdom.”[/color] I said, though I knew of one place, but it was not part of the Kingdom, it was Ilirea and it was it’s own City State. Not Elven… No Broddering.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Gonna take it slow babe, Do it my way
Keep your eyes on me. Your reaction
To my action is what I want to see
Rhythmic motion, Raw emotion
Infiltrating through, Sweet sensations
Hot temptations, Coming over you

’word count six. zero. five.
’tagged sean sviodson maclaren; genji lantieri
’song Come on Closer--! Jem
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[phrostphyre]

Sean caught the cough, and the disguised not-like there. He ignored it, like he ignored most things unless they could reasonably hold a threat, and went back to watching everything and nothing at once. Sean’s eyes never stayed to long on anyone spot or person, but his glances were probing for hidden weapons. Of course the Count carried a blade, and Sean knew he could probably use it. He doubted this meeting would come to blows, but if he did, his seax could serve as another throwing weapon, making that four, and Sean with a shield and sword. His face remained impassive, but there was a downward cast to his eyebrows, giving him the look of being angry. Sean ran through what little he knew of Itasan fighting tactics silently, trying to find something that he could seize upon to use as an advantage. They were all lithe and willowy, meaning they would favor something that used quickness and accuracy. The nobles were trained from a very young age to fight. The lad with the Count was undoubtedly a personal guard and aide. Sean finally seized upon something:berserkrgang. The Scandians of the far Northern Wastes used berserkrs as shock troops, and they retreated from neither fire nor iron. Sean’s father had been such a man, and Sean himself knew he could do it.

”Sean, lad, you know I am from Scandia? Good, good. There are groups of soldiers called berserkrs, and they flee neither fire nor iron. I am such a man, but I have learned to only let it loose during a battle. You will be such a man; how common is our fair hair among these thin blooded Hibernians? Not exactly populating the city streets. But you will be a berserkr, much to my dismay. You need to learn to harness it and release it when a battle is upon you. Now, punch me you worthless sack of flesh! You are a fool, weak-headed, and I shall burn your corpse after killing you!”[/b] Sean leaped back abruptly from his father, surprised. Sviod dived at his son and began to punch him. Sean let loose a wild cry and bit one of his father’s hands, while his small fists lashed upwards, punching Sviod in the eye and nose. Sviod stood and helped Sean up, then grinned. ”Good job, lad. You’ll learn soon enough.”[/i] Sean had not ever berserkergang, or gone berserk. Sean had always been a soldier, and his grandfather may have wanted him to inherit his Kingdom, but Sean had wanted none of it. Like any good soldier, Sean had learned to keep his mouth shut and his ears open, and he put this to use now.

[Elloria]

Genji's eyes began drifting around the garden. More and more, he felt that this had to have been a mistake. He had not come here out of any desire to wed this Alagaesian. The entire family was filled with mad men and he highly doubted the women were much better. Just look at Nayeli, for the sake of Yawata no Kami! He needed to let his mind drift to other matters, lest his temper and tongue betray him. He had sworn to keep his silence on the purpose of his visit and he would not break his word without a justifiable reason. Satisfying as it would be, revealing the engagement to Leilani before Nayeli could would surely damage any alliance he might forge with these degenerate royals. So he let his mind drift back to Teirm, to the fleet that was on its way, and to Itasus. His eyes, which had darted so rapidly but a moment ago, settled back upon Leilani. Though he was looking into her eyes, his eyes were distant - as if they had already taken full measure of her existence, her very soul, and had dismissed it. His gaze was upon his memories, though he replied to her easily enough. “Yes, I rule Teirm. It is a wretched city, filled with crime and idiocy in equal measure. The people are like animals and perhaps half as intelligent as such. Many are the times I have wished to abandon it to its own destruction.” His gaze remained steady and his voice betrayed no signs of regret for such thoughts. There was only the disgust he felt towards his subjects - indeed, to all of Broddring and Alagaesia.

Raiden mentally sighed as Genji spoke. ‘Honestly, Kazan-sama. It is one thing to think such things. Quite another to voice them aloud to this godless stranger! What has Yawata no Kami allowed to possess you?’ He had not moved from his lord's side, but had stepped deferentially behind him so that Kazan-sama would not be irked if his presence was not wanted. His eyes moved from object to object - lingering on a flowering shrub here, shrewdly eying a tree there, seemingly ignoring several statues scattered about. Though his stance was relaxed and he appeared unconcerned, Carvala was deep in enemy territory to him. There was no Itasan fleet to help defend them here, no allies they could depend upon. There was only Nayeli's word that Kazan-sama would be safe from harm. And there was simply no trusting the word of an Alagaesian, untouched as they were by the benevolent grace of Yawata no Kami. For the moment, though, there appeared to be no threat in the vicinity. All Raiden needed to worry about was Leilani's guard. His eyes continued to travel about the garden, but his focus was on the blonde brute standing slightly removed from the group. He wondered about the man's ancestry. Was he of mixed blood or did all peoples from...wherever the Savage Faithful hailed look like him? The man was such an unknown - that alone made him extremely dangerous and put Raiden on edge. His hands remained curled so that they touched his katakiriha. He took a mental inventory of the daggers at his disposal. ‘Sai on the outer thighs, a misericorde on the front left thigh, hachiwara on the front right, katakiriha on my wrists, a kaiken on each side...that should be sufficient. The katakiriha can be thrown, then use a sai to block his sword...’ He would have to be fast...was there anything he was missing?

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{leilani richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
Come on closer, I wanna show you
What I'd like to do, You sit back now
Just relax now, I'll take care of you
Hot temptations, Sweet sensations
Infiltrating through, Sweet sensations
Hot temptations, Coming over you

I set there, my finger tips on the edge of my book where the green ribbon was holding it’s place so that I would not lose my reading spot. In the simple silence, I could not help but wonder why the Count was here and why Nayeli seemed to be hiding something slightly. I also had thoughts of my wonderful Darek, the man I truly missed and cared for. My emerald eyes looked down at the ribbon for a split second before returning to look at the two before me. If I knew Sean, he was going over every thing before him, preparing himself for any unseen attack. I knew he wanted to protect me and I knew even in my home I was at a threat, but I was calm about it.

He looked into my eyes and though his were very nice looking, they were still cold and hard. It was something I hated to think about. He was tense slightly, I did not understand why, but something had him coiled up like a snake to fight. ”Yes, I rule Teirm. It is a wretched city, filled with crime and idiocy in equal measure. The people are like animals and perhaps half as intelligent as such. Many are the times I have wished to abandon it to its own destruction.” I looked at him for a moment, seeing something in the eyes of his guard, but I did not mention that. I could not help but nod slightly. ”What city isn’t filled with crime and lunacy… My uncle has run this place into the ground, his own paranoia no doubt. My mother shakes her head in disbelief at her brother’s stupidity, but unfortunately, we have really no choice but to follow and hope the Kingdom does not fall completely.”

[/color] I said, completely agreeing with Genji.

My uncle was a fool, his own brains had become nothing more then mush and he was lead around by that harlot, Malandra… She disgusted me to the utmost height of annoyance. I looked down slightly at the ribbon again and then back at Genji, a small smile on my face. ”Honestly, I don’t think my uncle really runs this country… He is nothing more then a pet to this Harlot known as Malandra in my opinion, but she only recently came into the picture.”[/color] I said, looking at him for a moment and then noticing my brother and sister speaking quietly among themselves in the archway where she had disappeared recently. I could not hear them, but Turin did not look happy about something and Nayeli seemed to be getting a bit flustered with our brother.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Gonna take it slow babe, Do it my way
Keep your eyes on me. Your reaction
To my action is what I want to see
Rhythmic motion, Raw emotion
Infiltrating through, Sweet sensations
Hot temptations, Coming over you

’word count four. four. four.
’tagged sean sviodson maclaren; genji lantieri; ariden hiroisora
’song Come on Closer--! Jem
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[phrostphyre]

The Count’s guard. He was undoubtedly armed to the teeth, but the loose clothing they both wore hid it well. Sean glared at both of the men for a moment, then continued sweeping his gaze around the area. He nearly snorted in amusement at the Count’s statement. Then lead a coup, you damned fool. It wouldn’t be that hard here, in this land. The military is non-existent, except for the cavalry units and headquarters. The Savage Faithful are most of the few professional soldier groups in Alagaësia now. Gain our support, and we’ll seize the roads into Carvala, Ceunon, and the Eastern Frontier. That’ll leave the rest of the Kingdom choking, and whoever can control Teirm is In charge. Sean mentally shrugged. The only person likely to attempt a coup that he knew of was Nayeli, simply because she had the best chance of holding on to the allegiance of the soldiers that were professional. Leilani might disagree, but she would go along with it, as would Turin. Nayeli held that family in an iron grip. Her word was practically law, to them. Mphmm, law. Damned useful, sometimes. But other times, just useless rubbish that made it hard to get what needed to be done, done. Like laws about murder. If the man is a pimp, and murdered, is it murder, or a righteous kill? Sean didn’t know, and the wall he was attempting to converse with mentally didn’t, either.

[Elloria]

Raiden breathed a quiet sigh of relief. It seemed that Leilani-sama was in agreement with Kazan-sama. That was fortunate indeed...if she truly agreed with him. Her voice and face held no hints of veiled motives. And considering Alagaesians were notoriously easy to read - well, at least every Itasan felt they were easy to read - Raiden felt that it was safe to assume this princess of a broken empire posed no threat to his master, politically or physically. More importantly, she was expressing a disdain for the very King she was supposedly loyal to. What an intriguing situation this was. It seemed that no one felt the King was capable of ruling the empire. If anything, it was this Malandra individual. Serious research would need to be conducted about this. If she was in charge - as Leilani-sama seemed to think - then it would be wise to investigate the individual and see what threat she could potentially pose to Kazan-sama's plans. As he contemplated this, Raiden noticed how Leilani-sama's attention flitted towards an archway. His own eyes darted in that direction. Nayeli-sama stood there talking to another man who looked somewhat like the sisters. A relative, then? A cousin, perhaps even a brother? Whatever the case, the man seemed quite displeased by whatever Nayeli-sama was informing him of. Nayeli-sama, in return, was also quite aggravated. ‘Undoubtedly butting heads over the proposed engagement between Kazan-sama and Leilani-sama. But which will come out on top? Nayeli-sama, naturally. That one does not quail before a challenge. She would be a better match for Kazan-sama than her sister. The sister feels too docile, despite being a skilled debator. Their temperaments are quite similar. Oh, the fights they would certainly get into.’ A grin quirked his lips ever so slightly at the thought.

Genji gave Leilani a non-committal grunt as she agreed whole-heartedly with him. Though she agreed with him, he could not help but disagree with her assessment about the state of the kingdom. With the proper resources and support, it would be very easy to cast the King down from his throne. The entire empire already agreed that the man was a fool, though none dared to speak it publicly and bring down the idiot's paranoid wrath upon them. Not even Genji would speak such lunacy within earshot of those who would happily use it against him. And there were plenty. He had feared no repercussions from Nayeli for she was undoubtedly going to be next in line. Azuan's death would be a fortunate thing for her. He crossed his arms as Leilani spoke of Malandra. He had heard that name often at court and had quickly learned to despise it. Few spoke well of Malandra. But if even the princess could not stand this Malandra, it would seem he would need to send someone on a ‘research expedition.’ He glanced in the direction Leilani was looking, noting that Nayeli and a man were having an apparently heated discussion. The man had some similarities to the sisters, so he assumed they were all related somehow. It didn't seem overly important at the moment, since it was probably a discussion about the proposed engagement. His eye twitched slightly at the thought. Here he had managed to ignore it for a short time and now it was back in his thoughts. “Tch. Why not rid yourself of the psychotic aged wretch and be done with it?” he asked bluntly. “I could name at least a dozen nobles better suited for running this decrepit empire than your uncle. Your sister included.”

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{leilani richards*}
featuring--! Nayeli Richards--! Turin Richards---! ---!
Come on closer, I wanna show you
What I'd like to do, You sit back now
Just relax now, I'll take care of you
Hot temptations, Sweet sensations
Infiltrating through, Sweet sensations
Hot temptations, Coming over you

I took note into different things, the count and the guard both were armed, as was I, but my dagger was hidden mostly because I did not care to use it much and I did not want people to see it. I hated fighting, even if it was needed… Most people could be silenced with a few simple words and forced into a corner with such. I was one of those who could do that. I looked at Sean for a moment, he was sweeping the area and the normal, so I shrugged off his presence for a moment. I was sure everything was fine, but Nayeli was standing with Turin, they were arguing about something, though you could not tell on Nayeli’s face, I could see it on Turin. He never hid anything, he was a military man and a good one at that.

I looked back at the two before me, Raiden was basically doing the same thing that Sean was doing, looking around, making sure things were safe for Genji and maybe me. Maybe I had two guardians for the moment. I felt my fingers running over the lace lightly, I could not help it, I missed Darek very badly, but I had not heard from him in a while. As I set there, looking between them and my siblings, I heard someone walking from another direction. It was a messenger and he seemed particularly happy today. He bowed low and lifted himself quickly before handing me a letter in silence. I nodded to him and put it in my book as he left, knowing that it would be best to read later when I had time and I was alone.

I heard the grunt from Genji slightly and I wondered what he was thinking. He disagreed with something that I had said, but I was sure to find out about it sooner or later. I wondered what he was thinking and I wondered if I would find out. He seemed like he was a outspoken sort of man. ”Tch. Why not rid yourself of the psychotic aged wretch and be done with it?” I smiled at him for a moment. It was something that I wish would happen, but that would take time and planning and my Uncle never let me rest, I was constantly debating about something or with someone. ”I could name at least a dozen nobles better suited for running this decrepit empire than your uncle. Your sister included.” I looked towards my sister who seemed to be finishing my discussion with my brother and then looked back at him.

”I agree with you… But the planning would take time and our uncle seemed to enjoy keeping my siblings and myself separated… He will die one day, we just have to well… Wait patiently.”

[/color] I said, before being joined by my sister who gave us a smile. ”I’m sorry to break up this little conversation, it seemed to be getting fairly good before I came… My I steal my sister from you for a moment Count Genji?”[/color] He of course nodded quickly(forgive me), and I stood to join my sister. Sean followed close behind, and we stopped to where it was slightly private for us to speak.

”I know you hate it when I go behind your back.”[/color] I looked at her weird and heard a sigh come from her. She looked at Genji for a moment and then back at me, her ice blue eyes meeting my emerald eyes easily. ”Leilani… You want a family, I see you thinking about it and speaking to the servants with children… Genji is the man Uncle and I have agreed to marry you…”[/color] My eyes widened and I looked back at him for a moment. He was handsome, sure, but… I did not fall in love easily, Darek was who I loved and I looked back at her. ”How dare you?”[/color] My hand moved quickly and the slap could be heard around the garden without a problem. My words came swiftly. ”You inconsiderate woman! My sister would never do such a thing, at least, I never thought she would!”[/color] I said, seeing her rubbing her face. Her powder had rubbed onto my own hand and I stormed past her, nearly running her over. Turin was standing before me. ”Did you know of this.”[/color] He shook his head, you could see shock in his own eyes.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Gonna take it slow babe, Do it my way
Keep your eyes on me. Your reaction
To my action is what I want to see
Rhythmic motion, Raw emotion
Infiltrating through, Sweet sensations
Hot temptations, Coming over you

’word count seven. four. zero.
’tagged sean sviodson maclaren; genji lantieri; raiden hiroisora
’song Come on Closer--! Jem
’post status done
’comment i will be posting with nayeli next from her pov
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[phrostphyre]

Sean’s mind wandered for the moment it took for the situation to explode. He came back to his senses fully alert, sword half drawn and one axe out as he took in what was going on. He saw the Count’s guard move one hand toward his body. They locked onto each other’s eyes, and Sean slowly blinked, then slid his axe back into his belt and his sword back into the scabbard. He saw the other man back down, too, and then Sean turned to watch the spectacle. It was funny. Leilani showed the courage of an insanely stupid animal by slapping Nayeli, and he nearly snorted. None of them, it seemed, had had the sense to gently inform Leilani. Oh shite. That was serious. Hmmm. They’re all annoyed and shocked. I knew this was coming. Let’s drop a hollow rock, shall we?

”If I may contribute to this conversation? I would like to submit my name as an eligible man to marry Her Ladyship Leilani. My grandfather was the Boar King of Hibernia, my father the Jarl of StaðurþarsemmargirmenndóusigraáðurSkotar. Jarls in Scandian society ranked second only to the King. They often married his daughters. I believe that, plus my grandfather, ensure enough royalty to marry the niece of a King?[/color]

[Elloria]

Genji opened his mouth to respond to Leilani when Nayeli returned. “I’m sorry to break up this little conversation, it seemed to be getting fairly good before I came… May I steal my sister from you for a moment Count Genji?” He gave a short nod, indicating that he was quite all right with that. He watched with keen interest as the sisters moved a short distance away. Now was the time of revelations. Were he anyone else, he would have been squirming with vicious delight at what was sure to be a most amusing outburst. He was not disappointed in the slightest. The slap Leilani delivered to her sister was loud and clearly unexpected from nearly all quarters. It even drew a somewhat violent reaction from her guard, mirrored by Raiden. A smile flashed across Genji’s face briefly before disappearing once more. But his eyes continued to shine with amusement as the guards stood down and Leilani moved from her sister to confront the other man - her brother, he now assumed. Well, if she was this outraged when he hadn't even decided to marry her, imagine her reaction when he suddenly revealed that he would accept the proposal. Her resentment alone was quite amusing and he could only begin to fantasize about utterly dominating her life. Yes, it would certainly be worth the aggravation he was undoubtedly heading towards.

Raiden's left hand immediately darted to his side for the kaiken sheathed there whilst his right hand began slipping the katakiriha from its holster. His whole body tensed in preparation for an attack when his eyes met Sean's. They held one another's gaze for a moment that stretched into eternity. Or at least that's how it felt to Raiden. Then Sean was slowly standing down and Raiden felt himself relax. His left hand drifted away from the kaiken, but his right still held tight to the katakiriha. Kazan-sama could afford to feel utterly unconcerned. Raiden would not let his guard down so quickly. His clan would be forever disgraced if Kazan-sama was injured or died on Raiden’s watch. More importantly, he liked Kazan-sama being alive and unharmed. But of course, the carefree demeanor of his master could only last for so long. As Sean began speaking, Raiden's eyes immediately darted to Kazan-sama. He internally cursed and moved to his lord's side. “Kazan-sama, please -”

Genji let Raiden go no further with his statement. He waved a dismissive hand and all but glared at the guard. Raiden immediately slunk backwards, looking sullen - or at least as sullen as an Itasan could look. A lowly guard was offering himself up as a potential husband for Leilani? The idea irked Genji to no end. No. Not irked. He'd be able to hold his tongue if he was merely irked. He looked quite calmly at Sean, his eyes flat and unexpressive. His left hand rested easily on the sheath of Seisui, his thumb casually pushing the katana hilt up so that it could be unsheathed more easily. He tilted his head slightly, his right hand tapping gently against his leg. “Are you insinuating that I am not worthy of marrying Lady Leilani? Despite the fact that I already have the approval of both her sister and the King himself and have decided to accept the offer of her hand?”

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{nayeli richards*}
featuring--! Turin Richards--! ---! ---!
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 could barely believe it… Turin had the same look on his face as I looked back at him, seeing Leilani storm into the castle. I could not even figure out what all had happened, she was pissed, far beyond believe. Leilani had never shown rage, no in a physical emotion like that, only verbal, but this was far beyond anything she had ever thought of. I gulped, I could not believe it and I don’t think anyone else could. The slap had caught everyone’s attention, including my own. I would not be surprised if my uncle was looking out his window in completely surprise himself.

Sean had placed his sword back and was walking over to me, Leilani was in her own room or in the sitting room by now, probably blowing up on anything and everything. ”If I may contribute to this conversation? I would like to submit my name as an eligible man to marry Her Ladyship Leilani.” I looked at him for a moment. I knew he was of royal blood, but since the Gala… Well, she did not seem very interested in him at all. ”My grandfather was the Boar King of Hibernia, my father the Jarl of StaðurþarsemmargirmenndóusigraáðurSkotar. Jarls in Scandian society ranked second only to the King. They often married his daughters. I believe that, plus my grandfather, ensure enough royalty to marry the niece of a King?” I held up my hand and nodded to him for a moment. I knew he was a eligible person, but I knew from the start he would have declined anyway.

I glanced to Genji whom seemed to be enjoying this outrage. I would have been if it was not me that got slapped. Turin joined me for a moment and looked at Sean as he had spoke and then back at me. ”You should have never done that Nayeli… Uncle has no say in her marriage, out of everyone mother does, father is a idiot, uncle is a nut case, and yet you want to agree she needs to be married?”

[/color] I looked at my brother for a moment and removed my hand from my face. I looked at my hand for a moment, thinking I would see blood, mostly because I swear I felt her nails. I looked at Genji for a moment and then back at Turin.

”She is constantly talking about marriage, she needs to get out of the court rooms… She is not as happy as she once was in there, she is tired of it, even if she does win almost all the time.”[/color] Turin hit his head as I spoke to him and then tried to clear my own head. I saw something in Genji’s eyes that held both amusement and anger. I looked to Sean for a moment and then back to Genji, who looked rather calmly at Sean and I watched what would happen. ”Are you insinuating that I am not worthy of marrying Lady Leilani? Despite the fact that I already have the approval of both her sister and the King himself and have decided to accept the offer of her hand?” I let out a sigh for a moment.

”No Count… No one is insinuating that… Both of you have very royal blood lines and both of you were considered… However, we chose you because you had more to offer in my eyes… Sean, if you remember, you had the chance to get her before the Gala, but you refused to catch her eye… Genji, let me show you to your quarters for your stay here and I will find my sister.”[/color] Turin grabbed my shoulder harshly, in a way I had never felt. I knew it meant that he did not want me near Leilani and then I felt his thump to the head before he turned and headed inside. I rubbed my head slightly and grumbled. ”Big brothers…”[/color] I looked to Sean for a moment. ”Go and relax, you have the day off to be with your men, Turin will probably stay with Leilani and she will be happy for the time, Turin has a way of calming her down that even I don’t know.”[/color] I said to him before looking to Genji.

I moved towards the castle entrance from where I was, but I stopped for a moment… I looked back at him for a moment. ”If you wish to see this… Disgusting city… Be my guess Genji, but if not, I will be in the throne room, I have business that needs to be taken care of.”[/color] I said to him before moving into the castle. I knew that my absence would mean that the King would let matters get worse and as soon as I entered the throne room, my ideas were right, as soon as I entered Dave came towards me quickly. ”A lot of work for you Nayeli… Lots of work.” I nodded and went towards the throne, where normally the king set, but it was my place. ”One at a time and we will get everyone taken care of.”[/color] I missed my days as a assassin sometimes, where no matter what, I did not have to worry about anyone but myself.
[/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. seven. three.
’tagged sean sviodson maclaren; genji lantieri; raiden hiroisora
’song Haunted--! Evanescence
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[Elloria]

(OOC: I hope you don’t mind if I kinda moved Turin and Leilani to the library. >.> )

Genji ground his teeth as Nayeli stepped in to “assure” him that nothing was being insinuated at all. In his mind, he very violently disagreed. Outwardly, his stance merely stiffened slightly and his gaze hardened. He silently watched the exchanges between Nayeli, Turin, and Sean. His mind spat curse after curse upon them, hoping Yawata no Kami would strike them where they stood. But alas, his curses were not fulfilled and Turin and Sean disappeared. He eyed Nayeli as she swept back the way she came. “If you wish to see this… Disgusting city… Be my guest Genji, but if not, I will be in the throne room, I have business that needs to be taken care of.” He scoffed as she left. As if he wanted to see more of this wretched shit pile. He wanted to get out of the damn sun! He was certain servants had been lurking nearby and were undoubtedly taking care of his and Raiden's steeds. He stalked into the castle after her, Raiden tailing after him. The shade instantly mellowed him, though he was still uncomfortably warm. He tugged at his shirt, undoing several of the ties so that it hung open to expose his chest and the curling tail of his vibrant red dragon tattoo. He glanced around coolly, unimpressed by the carved stone walls. In his mind, they screamed of a king desperately attempting to appear greater than he was. Raiden moved closer to Genji. “Kazan-sama - ”

“I don’t want to hear it, Raiden,” Genji snapped. Several servants stopped to stare as he and Raiden passed. He had little doubt they had never heard the fluid, lilting language Itas. Or even seen an Itasan. He stopped and gave them a disdainful glance that sent them scurrying. He continued walking with a snort. “This whole affair has been nothing but a blight upon my time and a drain upon my energy. I never thought the day would come when I would eagerly await the day I returned to Teirm.” Genji lapsed into an irritated silence. Raiden sighed quietly. It did not come as a surprise to the guard that Kazan-sama felt this way. He wondered how he might brighten his lord's mood. A number of delightful things came to mind, but he was equally certain that Kazan-sama would not be eager to partake in any of the activities. A purer thought crossed his mind and when he next saw a servant as they wandered, he stopped. “Excuse me, child. Would you perhaps know where we might find the palace library?” Genji paused and turned at the sound of Raiden speaking in Common. “My lord finds himself in need of entertainment and does not yet wish to go to his quarters.” Genji scoffed and rolled his eyes. The young girl stared at them for several seconds before nodding quickly. She trotted ahead of them and led them on a weaving path through the castle - up stairs, down halls, through doors, down stairs and up again - until they finally reached the library. Raiden patted the girl on the head and kissed her forehead. She blushed and dashed off, giggling. “You have no shame,” Genji muttered as he opened the doors to the library. Raiden merely grinned as he followed. For a few minutes, they simply wandered the large expanse of shelves and books. Genji's hands trailed over several of the spines, debating on which title to select. As he paused to examine the spine of one book - a history of the Voyage of the Nine Moons - he heard voices just beyond the aisle. One was low and deep, indicating that the speaker was likely male. The other sounded...like Leilani. Curiosity piqued, he pulled the book from the shelf and slipped closer to the end of the aisle. Flipping it open, he began scanning the text whilst listening to what could prove to be an enlightening and fascinating conversation. And if it didn't, he could simply continue reading. Raiden hovered just behind him, reading over Genji's shoulder.

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{leilani richards*}
featuring--! Turin Richards---! ---! --!
Come on closer, I wanna show you
What I'd like to do, You sit back now
Just relax now, I'll take care of you
Hot temptations, Sweet sensations
Infiltrating through, Sweet sensations
Hot temptations, Coming over you

”She did not mean to upset you, Leilani.”

[/color] Turin’s voice echoed in my own mind for a moment as I set in the quiet library, looking outside at the city, which it could be better then it was, but knowing that would take many years and I doubt it could be done unless Nayeli got the crown for herself. She actually cared for the land, but it would take many more years. I let out a sigh and looked back at my brother. ”If she did not want to upset me, she should have spoken to me first! I do not wish to be married, I don’t care if I am of marrying age… If anything, our uncle should be getting someone to marry her, she is older then I.”[/color] I spoke harshly, but my words came smoothly and beautifully. Turin laughed at me for a moment and shook his head at me.

”The first man to come her side in order to court her would end up dead if not within’ the dungeon being tortured daily for her own fun… Her training made her cold and harsh… She makes a great count, but she is better off as a Assassin like uncle had once intended her, he has forgotten about the training he put her through.”[/color] I could not help but agree with him. My sister had once been my uncles main tool to get whatever he wanted, she was silently and deadly, she was seductive and perfect to be sent out on missions, however, he thought she would be better as a count, even though she was a good one, she had great leadership skills, better then our uncle, but she never forgot her training.

I took in a breath, looking at my brother for a moment. ”Still… A arranged marriage? I can’t see myself marrying anyone without falling in love with them like… Like I did with Darek.”[/color] I turned to the windows, looking at the blue sky. I felt a hand on my shoulder and turned towards my brother as he gave me a smile. ”You know as well as I do, no one would support you and Darek, the only few who did was Awiti and I… Darek and you will always be good friends and I trust him, but you need someone who can give you a family, Darek can not.”[/color] I let out a sigh and turned to look at him for a moment. He was right, but that still did not mean I had to believe it. I wanted to be with Darek so badly and as I played with the ribbon in my book, I felt myself looking at it. He set down, but something caught his attention, which brought my own attention to look over my shoulder.

Genji… I turned back towards Turin for a moment, looking at him as he looked at the Count. He stood, looking down at me for a moment and then at the Count. ”Would you care to sit down, Count?”[/color] He said to the count, offering the seat that he was going to take. I stood myself, my pink dress was beautiful still in the dim light of the library. I waited for him to either take the seat or refuse.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Gonna take it slow babe, Do it my way
Keep your eyes on me. Your reaction
To my action is what I want to see
Rhythmic motion, Raw emotion
Infiltrating through, Sweet sensations
Hot temptations, Coming over you

’word count five. four. seven.
’tagged genji lantieri; raiden hiroisora
’song Come on Closer--! Jem
’post status done
’comment i will be posting with nayeli next from her pov
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[Elloria]

“She makes a great count, but she is better off as an assassin like uncle had once intended her. He has forgotten about the training he put her through.” Genji paused in his reading. They were surely speaking about Nayeli. So she had been trained as an assassin. It explained so much about her behavior, he almost laughed. It seemed, however, that she had never learned to separate the two personas. That was a shame - such a skill was, in his mind, truly invaluable. He felt Raiden tap his shoulder and he quietly turned the page.

“Still… An arranged marriage? I can’t see myself marrying anyone without falling in love with them like… Like I did with Darek.” Genji frowned, his eyes riveted to the page. Who was this Darek that Leilani spoke of? He had never heard of the individual before. But honestly, love had nothing to do with marriage. Only fools married for love. His people generally subscribed to the philosophy of learning to love your partner - or tolerating them, at the very least. Marriage was a business affair, much like any other. And this woman was supposed to be the more clever and intelligent one? Pity. He turned the page back, irked that he had missed part of the conversation whilst lost in his thoughts as well as his place in the book. He resumed his reading once he’d found where he left off and became quite engrossed in it.

Which was why he didn’t notice when Turin called out to him. It was rare for his attention to shift so completely away from his surroundings - something he only did when he knew his guards were keeping an eye out for him. He was halfway through a page before he felt Raiden tapping on his shoulder. He shrugged it off irritably. He wasn’t done reading; Raiden could just wait. And then he felt Raiden’s breath brush his ear as the guard whispered, “Turin-sama is offering you a seat, Kazan-sama.” He lifted his head up to find Turin and Leilani standing beside their respective chairs. Turin, it appeared, was trying to offer Genji a seat. The count blinked before finally processing what was going on. Placing a finger between the pages, he closed the book and strode over to where the siblings stood. He did not take the seat Turin offered, however. Instead, he chose a third seat across the small table from them and handed the book to Raiden - who was careful to not lose Genji’s place - before unstrapping the katana from his back. He gently leaned the sword against the chair and slipped his sandals off. He then folded himself up in the chair with his feet on the cushion so that his legs were pulled close to his chest. Raiden carefully knelt on the side opposite of the sword, still holding the book. Comfortable at last, Genji rested his arms on his knees and looked up at the siblings. “An arranged marriage is not such a horrid thing,” he stated, his lilting voice sounding bored. “Far more likely to last in a satisfactory manner than a marriage of love. Or such has been my experience.”

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{leilani richards*}
featuring--! Turin Richards---! ---! --!
Come on closer, I wanna show you
What I'd like to do, You sit back now
Just relax now, I'll take care of you
Hot temptations, Sweet sensations
Infiltrating through, Sweet sensations
Hot temptations, Coming over you

I could not help but think of Nayeli, she should have stayed a Assassin, she should have never accepted the offer, but Uncle had pushed her, had forced her into it, but how he forced her, I never knew. She had never spoken of it to me. Unlike her, I was placed into a place I wanted to go, to speak on Diplomatic Issues, not to be forced into a marriage I did not want. If anything, Nayeli should have been forced into the marriage, for she had far more reason to me married. She was two years older then I, she needed to be married.

Then, it came to Darek… I could not help but look out the window, remembering his beautiful face, even when it was his natural look. Those eyes were so beautiful, his wings and arms, so inviting. He might have been a vampire thing, but I did not care. I wanted to be with him, I wanted to hear his sweet lullabies in my ears, feel his hands against me. I fiddled slightly with the ribbon marking my place in the book I had been reading prior to all this happening. It was the ribbon he had given me and it was so nice to see. I smiled as I looked at it, wanting to be with him was all I wanted. Not this Genji, though he seemed like a fine man, I did not want to marry him. I could not even begin to think I would be happy with him.

As Turin saw Genji and spoke, I stood, unsure as to why the man was here in the library, but it did not matter, he was a guest of Nayeli and someone who she wanted me to marry. It was not going to happen, I would be sure of that. I never wanted to get married and honestly, Darek and I would be the only marriage I would want to attend with me being the Bride. If they continued to push, I would run to the Rider’s home, the city state of Ilirea, where I knew I would be safe from any harm coming to me. I would be able to be with Awiti and no one would be able to find me.

As his guard spoke in words I did not understand, Genji handed him the book and he set down in a chair not offered by Turin, but it did not matter. I sat back down, looking at him as he set in a funny position. I very rarely sat like that unless I was in my own chambers, but he was a count, I did not need to correct him. Turin set down beside me… He had gone through lots of training himself, even part of the Assassin’s training, but he had not wanted to be one, so my uncle had put him with the Soldiers and he went up rank quickly. ”An arranged marriage is not such a horrid thing,” I wrinkled my nose at his words, fiddling with the ribbon in my book, allowing my fingers to rub it softly. ”Far more likely to last in a satisfactory manner than a marriage of love. Or such has been my experience.” I huffed, looking out the window for a moment before I looked back at him.

”Count Genji, I am sure that you are of fine blood, I am sure you are a pleasure to be around.”

[/color] I said, my words were kind and soft, but they still held a edge to them. ”But I have seen the effects of a Arranged marriage on my mother, who had been miserable since I was born… My father married her only because the King forced him to… The only reason we were born was because my uncle forced his hand to make sure my mother conceived… Every night she never one time slept in the bed made for her and my father, she has sleep on a cot in the spare room, beaten out of her room each night so my father could have his fun with whores and wretches from the streets below…”[/color] I said, hatred boiled in my eyes for my father, but my voice did not change. ”I had to listen to it nightly, had to watch as my mother who has been faithful, never one time even looked at a man in lust, be beaten as if she did… Watched as even her own brother, my Uncle believed she was nothing more then a liar and then watched as she was beaten again for going to him by my father… I do not plan on having the same thing done to me and being miserable throughout my life.”[/color] My brother looked at me for a moment.

I wish my father would die each day of my life, I only put on the show that I liked him for the public, but each time he was sent somewhere by the King, I prayed he would never return. I wanted nothing to do with the man, not a thing. My sister and I had both talked about killing him, to give my mother a home without the constant beating and maybe introduce her to someone who could love and take care of her.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

Gonna take it slow babe, Do it my way
Keep your eyes on me. Your reaction
To my action is what I want to see
Rhythmic motion, Raw emotion
Infiltrating through, Sweet sensations
Hot temptations, Coming over you

’word count eight. eight. four.
’tagged genji lantieri; raiden hiroisora
’song Come on Closer--! Jem
’post status done
’comment (^_^)
’template creator nayeli

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