Dark of Night (IC)

Status
Not open for further replies.
Ballroom

Queen Hadaio turned to Lord Sarthath, looking for some silver lining to brighten up the dark outcome she sees, "Tell me this night will end better than it started, that this threat will die before taking a life, and that our lives can return to where it once was."

But Lord Sarthath seem to not hear her and immediately rushed out from the hidden room and into the attentive ballroom without a word. Hadaio nodded for her guards to follow, but four of them remained behind to protect her.


*****


Celesta saw Lord Sarthath and Master Mikal moving quietly through the wave of guest who were moving to each side of the room to prepare for her sister's arrival. The look on his face, however, told her he was fighting to keep his demeanor calm. They've registered the same threat as Koven.

"Celesta, why is security bumped up? Do you already know of the vampire infiltrating us?" Mikal asked.

"No, Master Sufa, I do not," she quietly responded. "Koven detected the vampire spy, but we have not found him yet. We have learned though that there is a thief in our mist as well, but it is unknown if they're connected. The Sevens have been called to Nahra's location and we've secured all exits from the castle."


*****


The guest were all set and waiting. So, with banners high and trumpets blasting a high fanfare, the Herald began his announcement.

"To all our honorable, noble guest, welcome to Gaahalo and the Palace of Nine Feathers! Introducing your hostess for the weeks gala event, Queen Hadaio Falshing, Beloved Ruler of Gaahalo!"

With all lines of worry removed from her graceful features, Hadaio waited for the gold drapes to split before her and she entered the large ballroom as her loyal guest and subjects cheered and clapped praises to her. Smiling and nodding, she waved to them, blew adored kisses their way before settling onto her throne. Her eyes reached Sarthath with a secret word, wanting to know if all was good. She didn't want to announce Nahra's presence into the ballroom if there was still a vampire threat lurking around.



The Royal Waiting Room


Nahra watched her two sisters chatting at the door, but she didn't register what they were talking about. She dropped her eyes slowly towards the hand holding hers, then lifted her eyes towards Erlan. "I think the coast is clear now, Erlan," she playfully giggled, squeezing his hand lightly. "My sisters are a threat, but not to me.., at the moment." Even though she was quite comfortable with her friend's natural concern for her, she wasn't sure if Celesta or Meria would see it as such.

Erlan smiled, "Yeah, let's not have anyone see the youngest princess with the son of minor Elven lord that's supposed to protect on one of the biggest nights of her life." He winked at her.

"I wouldn't mind if they did," she blushed and lowered her eyes. Soon, the sounds of the royal Herald was heard. Nahra took a deep breath, "First, mother, then her personal, honored guest, Lord Sarthath, then my sisters...them me..." She was a bit scared for she's never been before so many people before... Always kept home or with small groups and gatherings, this was truly the first time Nahra's mother has allowed her to participate in such a grand event. The idea of seeing so many people in one place, all for her, was somewhat frightening.
 
~King Lionel and Lord Kaden~
"Better late than ever." Sighed King Lionel as he arrived at the party. He came in finely dressed green robes with a golden belt for an added touch. He is also wearing a large, fur coat around him, not to mention his starred crown and elaborate entrance to state that the King of Dorrie and all of his lords finally arrived. and was escorted to a nearby seat. Kaden followed beside him and took up a chair next to him, he leaned back on the chair, one arm dangling behind it, the other holding a drink of some sort, he viewed out onto the party before him, watching as the people danced and frolicked about. He replied to the king; "Look on the bright side Lionel, you did get here, safe and sound." He looked at him with a brief,hopeful look to his face. "Now this...is true, thank you Kaden, for everything." He smiled back at him, and nodded, turning back toward the Royal waiting room. The room was quite intricately built, with a small touch of red, blue, and silver here and there. The ceiling was placed high above their heads, and what looked like a huge chandelier hovered over them. It seems like they came just in time for an announcement to start;
"To all our honorable, noble guests, welcome to Gaahalo and the Palace of Nine Feathers! Introducing your hostess for the week's gala event, Queen Hadaio Falshing, Beloved Ruler of Gaahalo!"
Applause from the guests, Kaden and Lionel included, filled the room as the lovely woman came out to show herself.
While this took place, King Lionel had took some time to think about the trip here:
...
It was lovely, for the most part, and although he was deathly sick and coughed everywhere, He still managed to be a good man of the people, and none of which tried to assassinate him. So, he came in the most elaborate and biggest carriage he could find: A huge, eight wheeled carriage tha twas about the size of a small house, the outside was decorated with streams of green and gold all over the sides, and a lovely golden carving of various animals serving as the roof of the carriage. It was pulled by eight, beautifully dressed oxen, and had its own crew of 5.
He remembered steeping into the carriage, and being greeted by the members of the crew, two drivers, a cook, and two servants, they all hugged him at the sight and, to tell the truth, it was a good sight to meet such warmth. There were three rooms in total, they were in the main room, with two, sleek red couches and a small but powerful lamp that hung from the ceiling, to his right was a small room for his cook, and too the right was a storage area and a lounge for his servants and drivers. He remembers being escorted down and cheered the whole way, while cough and hacking the whole way as well, he ordered them to settle down and celebrate when they got to his destination. and then came his lords into the carriage.
Ahh the lords, the future candidates of his kingship, they all, obviously, hated each other and cared more about the throne then themselves, but it is nice to see that bunch argue about the stupidest things...
As usual, Lionel would keep quiet and out of it as he watched Kaden and the other lords yell at each other for their 'right to the throne'... and with the exception of a few vampires who were hungry for the carriage, would eventually get to their destination safely and without disturbances.
And thus we would arrive, to the Palace of the Nine Feathers.
Kaden although he once was a Leonin, He however seems to be attracted into things un-related to typical Leonin preferations. As an example, as soon as the carriage opened up to the palace, the first thing Kaden talked about was Elven architecture. All he did was compare the palace to similar elven structures which honestly, Lionel was not interested in at all. Gut he listened intently as all good leaders would, Kaden is an...interesting... figure. He does the strangest things, such as play with endless amounts of magics, and worse...constant rumors are talking about the man having deals with the 'other side' as in with Vampires, Werewolves, and even rumors of him doing deals with dragons! If this is true...what a dark day in the future for his rule...

...
But there is no need to worry about such a lord's way of action, no need to go too far into one particular lord alone, plus, He taught the 'Cat himself, so he must know wrong from right. He sat in his chair rather tensely this time around, and gave a glance at Kaden, who smiled back at him.
He coughed heavily now, and this was not on accident, it was quite violent, so violent that he fumbled in his chair, nearly falling off it. Almost everyone got up to gasp or help the poor, sick king. Eventually, he got settled down back into his spot. looking down at the ground, hed realized he had coughed out a little bit of blood, and frowned;
"There's...nothing...to be worried about here, I'm.....
I'm fine."
 
Amara Ithira


Amara was working her way to the heart of Gaahalo for Princess Nahra's celebration. She wanted to be close to her, this was the best chance at getting a chance to serve her queen....and protect the princess. Even serving in the Queen's Army would satisfy this elf. On her trek, her mind went back to the time when she heard the prophecy for the first time.​
*~*~*~*~*​
When her father died, Amara's mother took her to live in the countryside, away from the influence of others. Evalyn taught Amara to have an open mind, to embrace new ideas. Amara embraced this way of life, living with an open mind. The way the other elves showed arrogance, or thought they knew best kind of bugged her.

Growing up, Evalyn told Amara of the ancient prophecy. The prophecy of a young princess, birthed by an elf, fathered by a dragon. She would be the sun, light of the world cutting through the darkness. Evalyn also told of the darker side of the prophecy. A vampyr would rip the sun from this world. A weapon, an ancient weapon would be the instrument the vampyr used to cause this darkness. The Blade of Shade. The blade must be destroyed in order for the princess to live.​

A Century Later
Amara never imagined that the prophecy would be fulfilled in her lifetime. When Amara heard that the Queen had announced war to find the Blade of Shade, Amara knew. She just knew the Young Princess, Nahra was her name, was the dragon-elf. The prophecy fulfilled. From that moment, that very moment, Amara knew her calling. It became her life's goal to serve the Queen personally. To protect Nahra from the prophecy, whether that meant serving in the army to seek the blade, or be a personal guard, Amara didn't care. She trained harder than ever. She quickly became an expert swordswoman. She also became quite good with a bow. Deeming herself ready, Amara started the trek out to Gaahalo. Her mother had taken her a significant distance from the Gaahalo.

When she stayed at inn for a night on her journey, she learned about Princess Nahra's celebration. Amara grinned. This would be her chance. She bought a horse with her meager amount of money, and worked her way to the castle even quicker.​
*~*~*~*~*~*~
Amara stood outside the gates, looking up. She barely remembered this place. Amara was wearing the armor her father had left her. The armor that was given to him at this very place. She wondered if the captain still resided here, if he would remember her. She shook the thought from her head. As the gates opened to allow everyone in, Amara pushed herself to the front. She gave the guards her weapons, so she would be allowed in. Knowing they would be safe from harm, Amara entered and stood in awe of the scene around her. Thousands upon thousands of people stood there, waiting to celebrate the beloved's birthday. She worked her way to a seat and sat, waiting patiently.

"To all our honorable, noble guest, welcome to Gaahalo and the Palace of Nine Feathers! Introducing your hostess for the weeks gala event, Queen Hadaio Falshing, Beloved Ruler of Gaahalo!" The queen entered, blowing kisses to the crowd.
Amara's heart raced at the sight of her queen. She had never gotten the chance to serve her, or do anything of help. Amara cheered with all the strength in her body. A single tear slipped down her cheek. She had worked most of her life to get here. A chance to offer her services, even though they had technically already been offered. A chance to serve her beloved queen.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
XENARD

Hearing that the queen had come out to greet the people, Xenard breathed a sigh of relief. Security is going to be insane now that the queen has shown herself. I'll have to wait until the guests start mingling more before I try for an exit. He gave quick glances at the guards. They seemed edgy, but not as much as they should be. Did that mean they weren't as fearful for the queens safety? Perhaps the little elven daughter...it is her birthday after all. The guards are probably waiting for her to arrive before they get fully alert.

If that was the case, once she arrived they'd be watching each and every one of them closely for any suspicious behavior and that meant looting was out. He'd just have to be patient and wait until an opportunity presented itself. Still, how long before that opportunity came about? A half hour? Three hours? Hopefully not too long of a wait...this was his first official gallantry he had fully attended and now he was in for the long haul...like it or not.


VYRA

Her sense of smells and keen eyes quickly found the elven castle and saw the obscenely long line that still awaited entry. Was it really worth waiting this long to get inside such a place? She sighed. It wasn't like she had anything else to do today and she was already here. Getting in the line, she tried to get a feel for how long she'd be waiting. Peeking around people and making idle conversation with those around her every noe and then seemed to help the time pass by quicker, but she knew she'd be here for quite some time still.

I wonder what the elves are like? Perhaps I'll get to see some of the royal family.
 
When she was given a clear report, Queen Hadaio nodded to the guards at the double entry doors. Standing behind them awaiting her announcement, was Princess Nahra with her escort for the evening, Sir. Erlan. Celesta and Koven stepped to the stage where the Queen sat; the Princess taking her place at her mother's right side, where her sister Meria sat to her left. Koven stood sternly beside Celesta's throne, watching the crowd intensely.

"Without further adieu, I now introduce to you our mistress of honor, our beloved Crown Princess of Nine Feathers, Nahra Fahlsing!"

With a huge sign, Nahra squeezed Erlan's hand, and as the door began to open, she straightened her back, lifted her head, and froze in place. There were thousands of faces staring at her, so much so, she couldn't even see the thrones where her family sat. Lost in fear of the anticipating crowd, her feet did not budge, and her fingers continued to nervously squeeze Sir. Erlan's hand in a tiny panic attack.
 
Amara Ithira
[dash=lime green]

Cheering her heart out, Amara felt something rise in her bosom. Something that made her feel content, or even joyful.

"Without further adieu, I now introduce to you our mistress of honor, our beloved Crown Princess of Nine Feathers, Nahra Fahlsing!"

Amara fell silent at the sight of Nahra. Her whole demeanor had changed. She got in battle stance. Even without her weapons, she was a deadly threat to anyone who dared approach the Princess without Queen Hadaio's permission. She scanned the crowds, her armor shifting as she moved. She looked for anyone who might be a threat. She inhaled deeply, and smelled a faint odor. One that wreaked of something evil. She snarled slightly. But she held her stance. She looked up to Queen Hadaio, hoping to catch her eye, even for a moment. To be noticed. She had been training for most of her life, to serve under her command.

She itched for her blade, her hand even reached to her shoulder harness to feel for it. It was automatic, her sword was also a source of comfort for her. But alas, she had trusted them with a captain of the guard. She sighed and clenched her fists, ready to strike at a moments notice.[/dash]
 
Erlan squeezed Nahra's hand back as the doors swung open and thousands of faces looked in their direction. He hoped that his cheeks weren't turning some shade of red. If his family knew his feelings for Nahra, if they were here and they saw them holding hands...

He let out a deep breath. He wasn't going to let this ruin the good mood he was in.

"You'll be fine," he whispered to her. "Just be yourself."

D'shial's eyes widened in delight. This was the dragon-elf. Master shalls be pleased. i must takes her back. She slowly made her way to the front.

(*So sorry for the delay. I got caught up in so much crap in my real life)
 
Ballroom

With more confidence radiating through her, with Erlan by her side, Nahra lifted her chin and smiled warmly to her guests as she was escorted across the marble floor towards her mother's thrown. She saw her sisters in their places, waiting for her; and her mother smiling proudly at her. There's no way anything could ruin this night, she thought, gliding carefully with soft steps. Friends she's seen a time or two, when allowed, were there to bow to her as she passed. People she's only known through her mother's eyes beamed warmly at her, admiring how beautiful she has grown. Nahra could only smile in return, unsure of them all, for most were strangers or acquaintances she barely knew. It was strange, to be admired from a distance - such things only lead to false friendships, two-faced smiles, and eager intentions driving pleasant words. They only mean something if they gain what they want, right? It sure seems that way.

Nahra just played her part and hoped that her reward would be something worthwhile. Life was far too exciting to watch from a window...
 
So that was her eh? The little princess herself. She doesn't look half bad! If he was a risk taker, he'd run up there and try to grab her. Such a prize would catch quite a price with slavers, rebel factions and whatnot. Still, that wasn't his style. Such risks never panned out to adequate rewards in the end. She looked quite out of her element..as if she was smiling at everyone and yet, would never let them within arms length of her inner circle of friends.
Still, what the heck happened now? He couldn't leave..that would be too suspicious at this point and he couldn't steal anything or try anything daring. That would alert the guards and whoever else was here protecting her.

Based on who all is here and their body language..I'd day at least 5 personal protectors. More if they're on edge and just hiding it well. Parents might make two and a couple of the elves round here seem very tense. They're probably out looking for me or keeping an eye out for whoever is after her. That's it...I've got to get out of here! He could feel a small bead of sweat drip down the side of his face and knew he had to get away now. His eyes scanned for the best way possible and decided on the rear door where all the guests had come in before. Alright...here goes nothing! He stood up and crossed by a couple people before slowly heading for the back door. If they tried anything, then he'd be ready for them...Potions and all.
 
Amara Irithyl

Amara remembered her manners. She went into a deep curtsey, bowing her head so low her chin touched her chest. She was still slightly tense, but relaxing enough to let others observing her she meant well. Her dark brown eyes fixed on the princess, Amara felt a wide grin fix itself upon her face. This seemed too much like a dream to be real, but it was. She forced herself to tear her eyes from the princess, and to look around, looking for anyone who might be a threat. She caught a red headed elf working her way to the front, and started to move subtly to get in her path if something should go wrong. The elf had a funny smell to her, and she was walking with a slight stagger. She could very possibly be a danger to the Princess, and Amara would take no chance of that; even though she wasn't officially part of the Queen's guard, doesn't mean she couldn't do her best to help protect Nahra as well.
 
~King Lionel and Lord Kaden~
Everybody stood up and applauded as the lovely mistress herself, Queen Hadaio Falshing, proceeded to show herself above them. Along with her was another man, holding her hand and whispering to her, and a Few of the Royal Guards for added protection. Lionel did not applaud, nor did he stand up, not because he was purposely being disrespectful or anything of that sort, it was just that he was too sick to be able too, he loves Queen Hadaio a lot and has been faithfully there at all public attendings. He was the one who agreed and kept true to the alliance with the elves, and ever since they weren't acting like they were any higher than the other alliances, although they were the most powerful of the three. He likes respect and prefers to reward those who respect him and his race with the proper respect due to them.
Kaden, on the other hand, stood up and clapped to Queen Hadaio for a different reason. He did this because the elves are just magnificent and beautiful people all together, not because of respect. And Lionel fears that if he were to rule, the humans would be taken advantage of, not that Hadiao would ever do that, but others might, others more greedy, and sadly, he would fall for their inevitable trap.
Another elf woman, probably a fanatic, bumped into both Lionel and Kaden, trying to push them aside, Kaden grabbed her by the arm and looked at her and spoke with an angry look to his eyes; "Hey! That is no way to treat our fair King of Dorrie!"
Sadly, Lionel was confused as to who he was talking about.​
 
Status
Not open for further replies.