Incursus (MAIN PLOT- OP THREE)

[Ze Flying Wraithetti Monstress]

If I wasn’t having a heart attack, Rosethorn Manor might have appealed to me.

There was, of course, the small fact that it was located in Dras-Leona, possibly the most repulsive place in all of Alagaësia. However, Rosethorn Manor definitely made a stab at making one forget that. The strict religion and massive population of poor people had done wonders to increase the wealth of those few with close ties to the Church of Helgrind, and it showed. Even the forest city of Ellesméra, which I’d only gotten to gawk at for a bit, somehow dimmed in comparison to the glittering crystalline structure of Rosethorn. Clearly of dwarven make, gems were embedded throughout the floor, ceiling, and walls, and carvings of roses, the namesake of the house, decorated the entire building, each designed differently. I could spend hours stroking every delicate groove and flawless finish if I didn’t have something of a war going on.

My nursemaids- ladies-in-waiting- had spent all of last night attacking each other over what I was going to wear for the party. Aisa had insisted that I was to be the best-looking girl in the whole celebration. Lakhesis wanted me to wear something basic that would allow me easy movement when the third party attacked. Klotho had spent most of that time picking the two of them apart before engaging in verbal battle with the both of them. I’d grown up with their bickering, and was normally able to sleep through it, but I’d been so terrified of the next morning that I’d spent the whole night with my eyes the size of saucers. This had caused a total upheaval over my tired appearance once dawn broke, and then the battle over makeup had begun. I’d spent the rest of the day sitting on my bed, head tucked between my legs to prevent myself from passing out.

Somehow, by the time evening arrived, they’d decided, although I was often prone to being grabbed and fixed up every couple of minutes or so. Otherwise, my stay at the heavenly Rosethorn Manor might have been quite pleasant. My hair hung in thick ringlets that swept unbound around my shoulders. I had not changed my elven face. Even though it was insisted upon, enough about my life had changed already. I wasn’t about to give up my appearance as well. Instead, my pointed ears had been pinned to the sides of my head like a human’s, which was more than a little uncomfortable. I was short enough and ‘filled out’ enough to pass for a mortal, but my face had about a pound of makeup on it. I was very soft-featured for an elf, but not enough to escape heavy skin pigments to hide my high cheekbones and sharp face. My lips were completely pink, a colour strongly desired by human girls, and the bags beneath my eyes had been painted over. My eyes were lined with thick black kohl and my eyelids had been sprinkled with silver mineral powders. As for my dress, Aisa had gotten her way. It was soft pink in colour and embroidered in silver and strapless, emphasizing whatever breasts I had, while a corset beneath it squeezed the rest of my body into a desirable hourglass shape. The dress fell into folds that reached the floor, hiding my tiny glass slippers. I looked good.

However, looking good would be useless once the third party struck. My maids could double as bodyguards should the need arise with their army training, but I was still terrified. I was a timid bookworm like my father, not the self-sacrificing warrior my mother had been. I had no idea what Taraak and Straethir and whoever else had seen in me enough to make me a part of this operation. The initial meeting had been stressful already. Maybe I was supposed to distract the enemy by having a violent seizure as soon as the first blade was drawn. Or bore them to death by reading out of difficult texts such as The Four Canticles of the First Elf King or A History of Du Weldenvarden’s Flora and Fauna. Otherwise, I saw little use for me except for a chance to hone my non-existent diplomatic skills, and those were useless in an invisible war like this.

“What have you done? How did you smear your kohl?” Klotho’s finger poked into my eyeball for the fifth time that evening.
“It looks fine! Stop mucking with it!” sighed Lakhesis.
“If I just remove this little line here..”
“I need,” I gasped, “some space.”
“Mm,” murmured a distant Aisa. “We’re almost at the ballroom.”

All three maids had dressed up formally for the occasion. Lakhesis was wearing a simple, almost unremarkable sleeveless blue silk dress clasped with a white belt that accented her one eye and fiery red hair. Klotho was wearing a very lovely green dress embroidered with gold that was strapless like mine, but she had hidden her arms with long chartreuse gloves that stretched past her elbows. Aisa was probably the most noticeable- besides being the best-looking of the four of us, she was wearing a crimson dress that was so short and so tight, it looked like little more than a corset and the shortest possible skirt. Her straight blonde hair flowed smoothly behind her back, and her face had been made up to perfection. For not the first or the last time, I was inspired with jealousy.

However, my mental self-effacement was put off by our arrival at the ballroom. The huge oak double doors were closed and guarded by two apathetic butlers who gave us all a single bored glance before reaching for the door handles in unison and pulling them. The doors swept open, revealing a sight that literally took my breath away. The party had started shortly before our arrival, and dancers filled the massive room, their outfits shimmering in the coloured light. The floor was glass and completely spotless, so that I could see my reflection in it, revealing a glittering garden of gems below us. The coloured lights, I realized, were from the lanterns reflecting off the rubies, sapphires, and emeralds that encrusted the walls, like in my room. They were simply gorgeous.

“Don’t gawk like that, child,” sighed Klotho, snapping my mouth shut. “It’s rude. Some might question your upbringing.”
“Och, aye. Just look at the scatterbrained broad who raised her!” barked Lakhesis.

I rushed into the ballroom to avoid being caught in the middle of another nanny catfight, and looked for the leader of this operation, dubbed as ‘The Snake’s Head’, as we were attempting to cut the head off the snake that was the third party. Lady Renn Kuran sounded somewhat intimidating- a diplomat whose father was very prominent in the Imperial Army, she’d slaughtered not only her husband, but both his mistresses in a cold-blooded triple murder four years ago. Galbatorix had found her interesting enough to give her the high position of consul in that short time- remarkable for a convicted murderer and a foreigner. She was from Nihon, a far eastern country that Alagaësia hadn’t been in contact with for well over a century. That interested me.

And, as such, she wasn’t at all difficult to spot. A small, graceful woman with a thin build and strange dress stuck out amongst the crowd. She also wasn’t participating in any of the revels, standing on the sidelines and watching with an impassive look on her high-featured face. She had a narrow dress with purple and white orchids printed on it that hid her entire body except for her face and neck. Her sleeves hung to the floor. Her revealed skin had been painted pure white, while her lips were bright crimson. Her almond-shaped eyes were accented with kohl, and her thick black hair was done up neatly in a bun with a very decorative and very colourful hairpiece. However, her dark eyes were calculating, seeming to take in every detail of the assembled party. She was my height and her frame was much tinier than mine, and I had to be an entire century older than her, but I found myself intimidated. With a huge intake of breath, I began walking towards her.

---

The party wasn’t as painful as I’d originally thought it was going to be. Despite being full of criminals and vagrants, it was remarkably formal, a clever charade that kept the higher-ups unwary. However, the ridiculous amount of gems and rock- there was an entire mining operation in here- were distracting, and the coloured lights did little to impress me. The Empire was not nearly as beautiful or as civilized as Nihon, and the attempts at beauty and civility often came off as cheap imitations of other cultures- the dwarves, in this case. However, I seemed to be the only person who thought this way, as the crystals were all anyone else would blather about. And so, I kept quiet.

It was really my only means of staying sane in this situation. An attack was impending, and I was the leader of the defence. The Snake’s Head, third operation of the unofficial coalition between the Varden and the Empire- keep people from being killed and killing each other, and get the attackers alive and only relatively harmed. Out of familiarity, I almost touched the comforting katana hidden with the folds of my kimono, but resisted at the last moment. Spies were likely among the partygoers at that very moment. Giving myself away would be ridiculous. Instead, I wrapped my hands within my sleeves to keep them occupied. I was nervous. I hated it. I’d been in worse situations before, but this was an enemy I could not see. I wouldn’t be able to face them until the very last moment, with my tongue, my blade, or otherwise.

I had Belisari and Sizura with me. The dark girl and the tiny elf had their eyes open as well should trouble come sooner than expected. After all, none of the seven members of the operation had reported their presence to me yet. Belisari was in plain sight, acting as my lady-in-waiting. She wore a pale golden gown that, when she stood up, was nearly see-through. It also highlighted the dusky colour of her skin, and her very dark hair and eyes. Belisari had always been a fan of the sensual. In any case, several men and women here were expensive prostitutes, so she might pass as one of them. Sizura was hidden somewhere, either pacing the halls or hidden somewhere in the crowd. The elf was unlikely to show herself until something of interest came up.

My thoughts were interrupted by someone very obviously clearing their throat, and I turned sharply to see a young woman in a soft pink dress standing absurdly close to me. After a double take, I realized she was an elf. She had hidden the more obvious features such as the ears, but despite the youthful pallor of her face and the shine of her icy blonde hair, her sky-blue eyes were old. In fact, there was a definite air of fatigue and anxiety that surrounded her, and her face was somewhat pinched from exhaustion. Though pretty, she was not the blinding beauty that most elves appeared to be. Standing behind her were three more elves. One, with flaming red hair, was moderately attractive. She was missing an eye- the left was covered with an eyepatch. The second elf had clearly been very beautiful once, but her face was now marred with scars. Her straight brown hair was cut short and hung around her face. The last, who stood out starkly from the other three due to her startling beauty, even for an elf, and racy outfit that heavily emphasized her breasts and hips, had long golden-blonde hair and icy blue eyes. This was Euryale Gorgophone, no doubt, and her three soldier-maids Lakhesis, Klotho, and Aisa.

“H-hello, Lady Kuran. I’m Euryale. Gorgophone, that is.” The girl in the pink dress dropped into a short bow before suddenly increasing her confidence. “I am present and ready for duty-”
“Aren’t you a little short to be an elf?” I said smoothly, cutting her off. She blinked her big blue eyes and opened her mouth again. I waved my hand. “At ease, girl. This is not the army. Euryale, is it? You will do nicely as our bait.”
“… bait?”
“Bait. Am I pronouncing it correctly? You are the lure, the worm on the hook. The bait.”
“Yes, but…”
“Military experience? Magical training? What about the stealth? No? Then you are of no use to me otherwise. I read about you, Ambassador. Unless the attackers wish to speak things out, you shall be our bait. Is this clear? Can you understand my accent?”
“Oh… um. Yes,” she said hurriedly. “Absolutely.”
“Good. Then I will not need to repeat myself.”

Words;; 2154
Muse;; Bad and rushed, plus it's my first time writing these characters in FOREVER.
Thoughts;; And off we go with op 3! It's horrible, but I hope it was clear enough for you guys to work with. Basically, your characters report to Renn, mingle a bit, and then the plot will take off. ^^

[Lady Nayeli]

My mother had gotten word that I would be going to a party… Maybe it was my big mouth sister who decided to tell mother I had recently acquired a new dress, or possible said something about someone doing my hair. I didn’t know how she had found this out, but I was destined for a while to stay away from my mother, though this didn’t work very well. She had caught me in her slimy grasps and she was not letting go anytime soon. I was tired of being pestered over about my hair, make up, and dress, but to please my mother, I went along with it. She did not get what she deserved, yes, my sister was by far the most girly and I was the most dangerous, but I was the eldest girl in the family and my mother had always wanted to help me get ready for things like this. I just decided to go along with it, there was no big deal in not going along with it, what was the point in fighting the mother’s urge.

I had waited till late to get ready, but my mother’s hands seemed to work like clock work. My father had married the best in making women look pretty, yet he took it all for nothing. He cheated on her, argued with her, and still thought she wanted nothing more then him. She loved my father, but she was not stupid. ”My dear, please stop moving and I will be done soon enough.” I hated to sit still, it was the worse thing in the world to me. I could feel the teeth of the brush going through my long black hair, each teeth getting some form of tangle as it went down to the last of it. I growled and I knew she was smiling, I wanted to slap her for it, but I knew I would never harm my mother in such a way. ”I am going to leave it mostly down, however, I will pull it up some what.” I did a quick nod and let her do her work.

”I think you will look beautiful.”

[/color] I smiled slightly at Osiris’ comment and I glanced around for just a moment. He had grown some more, but he still had some time before he could allow me to ride. I wanted so badly to jump on and feel the wind in my face, but I knew better then to do that now, it would only cause him to fatigue quickly. I felt my hair being pulled tightly and I sucked in air and growled slightly, something I had resorted to doing a lot since I had received my dragon. I knew my mother had not meant to hurt me, but she had to get my hair perfect. She worked with the hair as if it was the only thing in her life, her hands moved through the smooth strands with ease, causing my own sleep to come as she moved her hands and pulled everything.

She touched my cheek and I turned slightly, knowing it was to tell me to move my head and look towards the wall. I did as I was silently told and I felt her take a bit of hair and begin to braid it down, placing a clasp around the end tightly and then doing the same to the other side. ”Do you want me to tell you what it looks like?” I thought about it for a moment and then shock my head, because I wanted to see it after she was done. She was taking her time with the hair and I allowed her to do what she wanted to do. She made me look forward once more and felt the two braided piece get pulled to the back, causing them to loop back slightly. ”Okay. Go look.” I stood, walking towards the mirror and looking at it. She followed me and smiled when I looked at myself in aw. I could not believe this was me.

My hair had been left down for the most part, two braided piece pulled back and lead to another braided piece, but this one kept the hair out of my face. The rest of left hanging to my waist, the large braid was stranded with silver and gold and I could not help but smile. ”Mom… This is amazing…”[/color] Oh, my gosh! I sounded like some girl and I could not help but laugh slightly. My mother patted me on the shoulder and pulled me to look at her, in her hands was the make up stuff and I smiled as she started to put it all on my face. She moved her hands quickly, rubbing in the right areas, giving my eye lids silver and golden colors and my lips were a dark red. My ice blue eyes looked at her as she smiled at me and I could not help but smile back. ”Thanks Mom.”[/color] She smiled at me and finished the make up before she walked with me back to her room where I had stored my dress.

She pulled out the silver dress, golden around the hip slightly and wrist areas. I smiled at it for a moment and then she helped me pull it on after I took off my normal Assassin clothing. I put the dress on, the silver dress was beautiful and it held such a formal appeal to me. I could not help but like it. There slits went all the way to my hips, or just below my hips and my sleeves were loose enough to hold my dagger and hid them. My long blade would stay with Osiris since I could not carry it without anyone knowing it was there. I helped my mother smooth it all out and then put on the silver shoes before I turned to the door. ”Be careful Nayeli.” I nodded, kissed her cheek and heading out. Outside, my father’s stable hand was holding the white stallion I was going to be riding to the party, which would not be hard to get to.

I glanced back for just a moment and then mounted the horse, looking to the sky. ”Where are you?”[/color] I saw his black body float between the low clouds and I smiled, kicking the stallion and taking off, however stopping when I realized I had forgotten something. I turned and trotted back to the house, my mother was standing there with my black cloak. I took it from her and smiled, putting it on and then taking off towards the party. I galloped over the road, not caring about anyone in front of me at this point and moving quickly. I knew I had to find Lady Renn when I arrived, which would not be hard to do since I had seen her before and get my orders from the women.

”What do you want me to do?”[/color] I looked up at the sky as the clouds parted and he flew through them, showing himself as he flew for a moment and then disappeared. I shrugged for a moment and told him I was not sure. He growled in my thoughts before he laughed and then went silent for the most part. I looked around and saw the place coming up, slowing my stallion. As I arrived at the doors, a young man came towards me and my white stallion.

”Take this stallion to a man called Kent, tell him this horse belongs to Lady Nayeli and he will put him in his stables.”[/color] The young boy nodded and I dismounted, removed my black cloack, placed it on the saddle, walked towards the two double doors and then as they opened slipped through them with ease. My silver dress caught the eye of a few guards and when they saw who it was, they turned their heads and I smiled. I looked around, the beautiful lights and gems taking on their full glory before I turned my eyes back downwards and looking for Lady Renn. I smiled when I saw her and began to walk towards her and another woman. ”Lady Renn Kuran.”[/color] I bowed slightly, my black hair trailing down my back as I pulled myself up. ”Osiris and Lady Nayeli reporting for duty.”[/color] I was confident, knowing this nothing more then a battle waiting to happen and I was not scared of battle.


Word Count:: 1,413
Comments:: Wow, I really don't like that post. Oh well, they will get better.
Tagged:: Renn Kuran::Euryale Gorgophone
Color Code:: Lady Nayeli::E54C4C :: Mighty Osiris::A92929

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[zkjt]

Ever since I had brought Glabatorix Endorin, and Alaeyr hatched, my rank was risen quite noticeably. I was allowed in secret councils, and became one of his closest advisors. After all, who could doubt the man who brought you one of the hardest people to find in Alagaesia. I knew that Endorin had been assigned to op 4 with Alaeyr, and I was actually happy for that fact. But I knew of the Varden Shade that I would be with and my spirits for the upcoming party were slightly diminished.

Usually I don't mind what I wear for parties. But for this one, I would need to think carefully. I, of course, had to dress nicely. I was an Imperial Shade for God's sake. But, battle could happen at any time, so I would need to be prepared. So, after careful deliberation, I chose a scarlet shirt with tight sleeves, and breeches of a darker red. I wore a black cloak, and black boots. A sword was at my waist, black gloves adorning my head. I used magic with the help of Malandra Ramakrishna, my beloved doctor, and helped my ugly face. I came out quite nicely I thought.

My abnormally pale skin had gotten some color to it, so I wasn't entirely pale. My pure black eyes were softened, so they could even be called a dark brown. My hair was tidied and set back elegantly onto my shoulders. There was a faint glimmer, but only the strongest of mind, for instance this Varden Shade Xanathiel, and dragon riders could see it. After I had gotten ready, I had left Uru'baen with a spring to my step. Or rather, a spring to my horse's. I wouldn't be walking.

Yes I felt bad about betraying Galbatorix, but even I knew how deadly this plague could be. And besides, once I had heard that there would be a party, of course I was game. Who wouldn't want to party with beautiful men and women, all while looking forward to a bloodshed. Perfecto, as Cesar Insalata would say.

The road to Dras-Leona was hard and tenuous. Food was boring, with no usual flair to it. There were no prostitutes, so I was forced rape my guards. I think two of them left my service actually...Another thing was the boredom. I had none of my usually play toys, and couldn't possibly hurt anyone in my party, so I was forced to kill animals and plant life we saw, and even that was scarce. I rid in a carriage, with 6 armed guards. When I got to Dras-leona, 2 had fled and 1 had died of thirst. Pity.

We had gotten there early, so I stayed in the recently deceased Marcus Tabor's palace, and was content to the lavishes there. The party wasn't for another few days, so I had all the time in the world to plan. I didn't trust anyone. Sure, we were all here for the "good of Alageasia," but I always knew there was an ulterior motive. It was just a...fact. So I monitored the arrival of each one of my party members. Some arrived early, some late. I kept tabs and studied what resources I had on them. There wasn't much I had to go by, but it was enough.

Smiling at myself in the mirror, I was excited to know that tonight was the night. I was all dressed up, and looked amazing. I played with my hair for a few more minutes, before I got up and began walking to the manor. Apparently, the place was beautiful. Was there such thing as beautiful when it came to comparing with Galbatorix's castle? I doubted it. Galbatorix used at least half of the taxes on his own personal room. With a smile on my lips, I finally got there. The building itself seemed grand from the outside, and women and men shuffled about. I strutted my way through the crowd, very aware of the pressing bodies against my own. And then I was inside.

The inside was amazing, if the outside was grand. There were roses carved everywhere it seemed and gems, beautiful gems, lined the walls. I was fascinated. How badly I wanted this house for my own. Maybe a word to Galbatorix..."Excuse me sir," I spun around, then relaxed when I saw it to be just a normal man in the crowd. He was handsome, with military cut blond hair and shocking blue eyes. Smiling seductively, I leaned closer...and drew back suddenly when I saw a woman's hard glare aimed directly at me. The man had been leaning toward as well, and looked taken aback when I drew away. With an angered glare, he strode off into the crowd. I watched him go with a mixture of desire and disgust, and made my way to the woman.

I knew her to be Renn, the woman I would be reporting to the entire night. Next to her was a blond woman he looked extremely nervous. Euryale Gorgophone. And there was another woman. I recognized Nayeli, one of the Imperial Dragon Riders. I took Nayeli's hand first and kissed it delicately, then did the same with Renn and Euryale. "A pleasure to see you all," I murmured softly. I had been surprised that Renn could see through my illusion. A tough woman indeed. "Has anyone else arrived yet?" I said quietly to Renn. But my eyes scanned the room, looking for the blond man I had met before.

[Arizae]

This was absolutely ridiculous, completely foolhardy and utterly hilarious. It had been ages since he had made himself look somewhat decent. Even now his hair was raggedy and strewn over his pointed ears. Sure he had a slave straighten the edges, but he hadn’t done much to really tame the rat’s nest resting on his head. Honestly nothing short of magic or some miracle worker with a brush would have solved that problem. It was the culmination of years of filth and neglect, well he made it smell decently, but his hair really was a lost cause. Duren cared that much for hiding his elf heritage among these folk. Never lose an advantage when you didn’t have to, especially when in the slaving business. So to keep his sharp elf-like features even more hidden he hadn’t completely shaved. No, Duren had merely had that same slave shape his beard. Might as well try to look somewhat approachable at the party. His beard was still very rough, nothing regal like the nobles usually wore, but heck he was a slaver, no one would be expecting much. If anyone so much as suspected him of being part elf…well they would have to be magical. He would swear to it. Duren was hoping he wasn’t the hobo at the event; this party couldn’t be too formal could it? He never attended these foolish things despite the numerous invitations sent to his name. Everyone in Dras-Leona wanted to speak with one of the biggest names in slaving. Ah who cared about what he looked like at the party, what did it matter to a blind man anyways? Well, plenty of those attending knew something of him, even if they had never seen him. Duren was the beggar prince of the slaving world. He was the hidden and all knowing ‘eyes’ of his wonderful city, Dras-Leona. A son of the slums and a champion for the poor even as he carried on the long tradition of slaving. No one but his most trusted advisors and few attending slaves even knew his face. He figured such a situation was fair. After all, he had seen none of them. So today was a big step for the young half-elf. This was a high visibility event; there wouldn’t be any hiding here. It was necessary however, his eyes had been ‘blinded’, okay he simply couldn’t help but laugh at his own silly analogy, oh boy. Onward with the problem. There was a hidden party on his streets, one without ties to the Empire or the Varden, a party he knew little about. They posed a danger, and a threat, so he would come out from his streets to face this problem head on!

Yesterday he had spent time actually shopping of all things. Naturally he brought his most trusted slave with him. A young man named Reem. Duren had plans to let the man go soon enough, but he was too invaluable to the half-elf. Being blind really was debilitating when you had to dress up for a party…or read letters sent from nobles. With Reem at his side it was easy enough to manage the shopping. Duren knew the feel of expensive material and was able to locate a high end tailoring shop. Naturally his wisdom of his city had helped him, plenty of whispers among nobles about this place. After choosing the best material from the lot he told the shop owner the shades he preferred. Match his eyes and black hair that might look snazzy. Well, that’s what he would think might look neat. So with Reem supervising the tailor came out with the right stuff and measured it to the strange blind ‘noble’. No one asked many questions when you shoved enough crowns at them.

Reem had advised buying some of the fashionable jewelry but Duren had immediately refused. There was no way he was going to get all fancy with diamonds. He already had a ring and that was enough for him. As far as his fingers could tell it was a beautiful thing, and it brought a strange tingle to his fingers. He knew for a fact that his mother had held it once, and for some reason he believed it had first belonged to his elvish father. If Duren had eyes he would have been able to read the elvish rune inscribed in the inner band. Had he shown that ring to those in Ellesmera they might have even accepted him. It was made of a strange metal, something no human smiths had been able to identify. Duren knew it had to be elvish make after that. The opal set in the middle simply had to be a sign. The half-elf had actually used the ring as a sign of his authority. Since none of his people knew his face he made sure the ring was well known. No one would ever be able to duplicate its simplistic beauty. It was fashioned in the shape of two dragons, their wings outstretched. And their heads going along the side of their wings in opposite directions. The heads and wings of the dragons are what held the opal. The tales of the dragons met at the bottom and twisted together creating the rest of the ring. Even the dragon’s eyes were made in great detail; a small emerald glimmered as the eyes for the more feminine looking dragon while a small ruby glittered in the more masculine dragon’s eye. Truly an original work of art. Duren’s one truly precious item, and a link back to his mother and father.

This didn’t mean his attire was lacking. The half-elf was dressed in comfortable, yet very fashionable black pants and matching tunic, both copying the color of his jet black hair to near perfection, the tailor and Reem had done well. Both were traced in a glittering white that shone like the opal in his ring and. On the front of the tunic were some brilliant designs also traced in the shimmering white lining. He made sure the lines were sharp and jagged, nothing like the leaf like designs of elves. The half-elf had specifically asked for that. No link to elves…besides the ring…which was obviously very foreign. Besides the tunic and pants Duren also insisted on a cloak. He had hoped to have a cowl to hide underneath, but Reem had tricked him. The cloak had become a cape, and this cape did not come with a cowl. There was no escape for young Duren. The cape was a masterful piece of work, pitch black and lined in that beautiful shimmering white. Along the back there was the design that looked like white fire, truly brilliant. It would have been beautiful had it not been so eerie that the white on it perfectly matched Duren’s eyes. The half-elf had never looked better and he was hoping the clothes would take the attention away from his eyes, but he doubted that would happen. Reem was still fussing with Duren’s hair the minute he headed out, but the half-elf would not hear of it. He must have struck the slave with his tall staff at least five times before Reem got the picture. Go nowhere near the hair! After all, Duren did not want to sell his favorite slave simply because the young man had discovered he was a half elf. So there would be no tieing the hair back and there would be no brushing through it. Besides, people might stare at his mess of hair, but they would soon be caught by his eyes. This mix of rugged face and very noble clothes might look incredibly strange. Now the clothes he wore had cost him more money than he normally cared to spend. Like it or not his business had made him incredibly wealthy, but surprisingly he still lived in the slums. Even after his affluence the half-elf lived much like he had before. The money he stored and invested leaving nothing wasted, until tonight. Duren had been invited to this party because of his standing among the merchants but none ever expected him to attend. After all they only knew a name and they figured it polite to send him an invitation.

There had been little time to prepare for the event. Only recently had he been able to contact the one in charge of this highly secretive operation. Renn Kuran was the name, a noble woman from some far off country. A foreigner, now that would interesting. Duren always delighted in hearing new accents. Now came time for this extravagant event. The half-elf was on his way to the manor, but he was not walking like he normally would. No he was riding in a very expensive carriage of sorts. It was pulled by two black horses and he had the shades drawn. The small cabin might have smelled rich, but Duren had a hawk perched on his shoulder and a tall staff in hand. Reem couldn’t force Duren to leave these two items behind. Ril was a constant companion. One couldn’t take the hawk from him, and Duren wouldn’t make her leave himself. The staff was nothing elegant; it was made of dark ebony, deep black in color. It could be seen as an overlarge walking stick for a blind man, but Duren knew very well that this staff was made for fighting, and the half-elf was incredibly skilled in its use. Sitting in the pitch black of the wagon Duren would have laughed if he had been able to see himself. Extraordinarily expensive clothing, elvish ring, matted head, tall staff, elegant bird, and pearly white eyes. Duren was looking better than normal, but it was obvious he was not trying all too hard to impress. The half-elf already knew no one would be looking at his attire. His eyes always stole the show. Those useless orbs that floated in his head always stole everyone’s attention. As the carriage approached the grand building Duren could hear the sharp gasps of people as they admired the manor. The slave girl sitting across from him flung open one of the curtains and squealed in glee. A wry smile came to the half-elf’s face.

“Magnificent isn’t it?”
“Absolutely stunning! Just look at those gems!”
“Brilliant! When they catch the sun I swear I can see rainbows.”

Perfect, it would be fun to humor Trish tonight. He’d taken a stupid one, she was his age, but Duren swore something was not right with her head. She would work perfectly. Another ditz to flirt with and then let wander to distract some stupid noble. She’d fetch a good price when it came time to part with her. The carriage came to a gentle halt and the driver quickly came around to the door and helped out Trish and then Duren. The girl immediately latched on to the half-elf’s free arm, quivering with excitement. However, Duren was ignoring her at the moment as a small nip on his ear got his attention. Ril was letting Duren know it was time for her to depart. The half-elf felt a pang of sadness, but it was reasonable, she would draw too much attention at the party, he simply couldn’t bring her with him. He unhooked his arm from his servant companion and lifted a finger to stroke the hawk’s chest. “Farewell friend, I’ll let you know when the festivities are over.”

[/color] And as simple as that Ril took off. Now Duren was left with this dunce on his arm for company. Make no mistake Trish was incredibly beautiful, as far as he had been told and experienced from others reactions around her. She was a true prize for any nobleman, but conversation with her was…lacking. He had made sure she was dressed in one of the finest gowns and adorned with sapphires and diamonds. Her choice actually and he trusted her not to look like a fool. If there was one thing this simple-minded girl could do it was dress herself up. Duren could tell that was true enough from the sound of heads turning to look in her direction. A few gazes glanced over his form, but they were uncomfortable and moved on, trying not to stare. Duren wasn’t sure how he could tell this was exactly what was happening, but he was positive this was the case. When you grew up in a dark world without anything to look at one began to feel. Since he had been in that darkness since birth Duren had a strange ‘other’ sense, and he trusted it with his life. People were staring. This was a truth.

Then, before he knew it they were in the middle of things at the grand party. At first he rushed through the crowd to the sound of drink and clinking glass. He was incredibly tolerant to alcoholic beverages, he had grown up on some hard stuff having lived in an inn for much of his childhood. So these fancy noble drinks were nothing. For a few minutes he enjoyed his time with Trish as much as possible, and he did that by draining several glasses of the bubbly substance they passed off as alcohol. His head was not even faintly tainted by the drink, but he played along with Trish and let her think he was letting himself go. He flung his staff to a servant and stumbled blindly…haha…onto the dancing floor. There he felt at home, and though he flirted nonstop with any girl that passed he did keep his main focus on Trish. At one point he even hit on a man for good times. Then Trish remembered that she was with a blind man and tried not to laugh too hard as the noble man ran quickly away from this ‘drunk’ blind fool. But then Duren really took to dancing. It took some amount of concentration at first but the sharp step of feet and the flat surface helped him greatly. Soon he had the area mapped out in his head and it was a simple matter to determine where others would step. Everyone was so weighed down by the clink of jewelry dodging was simple. The music was sweet rapture to his ears and he took to the dance with the greatest of ease. Soon his date was following his steps and laughing out of joy. They were stealing the show despite his blind eyes. He swept Trish from one side of the ballroom to the other, laughing as if he were a happy young man high off his champagne. Dancing it seemed was this blind man’s game. But then, even as he tried to act like a drunk and in love young man, there was a foreign smell…something Duren had never encountered before. He passed Trish off to another man, telling her he had business to take care of. She was sad to see him go, but new well enough to leave Duren. She could tell he was being serious, and it quickly reminded her that this young man was not her friend or her lover. He was her master and he was ordering her to keep out of his way now that her part had been played. So Duren stumbled over to the servant holding his staff and quickly snatched it from the shocked man. Then he wandered towards the foreign scent relying on his staff heavily now to keep up his ploy. Since he didn’t have Trish on his arm guiding him he let himself run into other people as well as chairs. Of course he could have easily avoided all the obstacles, it was simply better to keep people unaware this way.

Now Duren knew he was to meet this Renn Kuran, he had been given a description, but neglected to let the party know he was blind. Somehow he knew he could find her. Now he believed he had zeroed in on his target. For one, the sense of urgency, nervousness, and somehow complete calm clung heavily to the air. Another…there were extremely foreign people here. Not the simple noble that traveled a slight distance to the party, but cross country journeys. The smell of perfume and cologne wasn’t so heavy either, and he thought he could hear the sound of steel…the steel daggers were made of…not this silly jewelry stuff. These people were armed, even if that fact was hidden to those blinded with sight.

He put a drunken smile on his face as he approached the group, relying heavily on his staff as he approached them. As he drew near he was able to zero in on their very strange smells. Duren had been all over Dras-Leona, and yet in this small collection of people he was finding the most bizarre and peculiar scents. One was extremely ominous; he didn’t know why he felt that way but…perhaps a hint of sulfur? No that was not possible, but that was certainly a strange scent. Something evil lingered around it. Now it was easier to hone in on the strong reptilian scent hanging on a second party. Did this girl keep lizards as pets? He knew some strange folk that did, but no…this was no simple lizard scent. This came from a different creature. Perhaps…Duren couldn’t remember, was a dragon rider supposed to be with them? Yes this had to be a dragon rider; there simply was nothing else this scent could be. Yet another of the party seemed to be extremely nervous. She was holding herself together well, but Duren could hear the slight shiver and quickness in breath. Dare he focus on the target further to see if the heart raced? No the music was too loud and such a strain would be difficult. However that target was definitely not the one in charge and neither was the ominous feeling one or the reptilian scented party. No…it had to be the one dressed so strangely. Duren had never heard clothing like this…of course he had never been around a kimono either. Taking a literal stab in the dark he extended his hand, the ring on his finger shining brightly, it seemed the ruby and emerald eyed dragons stared at the person he offered his hand to. If this was Renn Kuran she would know he was here to help, the ring had been described since they had never met before. Perhaps even more eerie than the small dragons on the ring staring straight through the woman were Duren’s very own eyes. They were without pupil or iris, an iridescent white. At times shimmering, at times milky, but right now they seemed almost translucent as if he were staring straight into Renn’s eyes despite their blindness.

“Duren Maethor, miss.”[/color] He said pleasantly as he bowed that same sly smile on his face. He slurred his words ever so slightly, letting her know that he was enjoying the party to its fullest. He continued in his drawl, an act, but very convincing all the same. After all, if he had not been an excellent actor he might never have survived as a child. He was meaning for it to be over the top however, and if this group noticed that it might be a good thing, as long as the rest of the nobles out there remained ignorant. “So don’t leave a blind guy hanging here. I may not be able to find your hand. Now I do hope this is the Lady Kuran I was supposed to meet here and trust that I have not made a complete fool of myself.”[/color][/blockquote][/size]

[silence13]

Elle fiddled with her mop of bright red curly hair and got it pulled into a decent style finally after about five hours. "Thank Heaven!" She sighed and pulled on her cloak before walking out and getting on her horse. 'Oh won't this be fun?' she thought. 'All sorts of people and you're taller than most of them!' "Ugh this'll be one to remember I'll warrant." It had been incredibly short notice and getting there wasn't exactly tough from where she was staying, she just didn't like walking in a dress. She dismounted her horse and surveyed the manor with a critical eye before pulling down her hood and removing her dark cloak to reveal a modest dark blue dress, even modest for the occasion as this WAS a party. She looked down at her dress and smiled, not wanting to draw attention. She walked in with her shoulders squared and looked around the room at the unfamiliar faces. She put a hand to the side hem of her dress and felt for her daggers. 'Good, daggers within reach: check.' She found her person of interest and casually walked over. "Ah, is the Lady Kuran here? I was told to meet her for something." She looked at each member of the group in turn until she recognized the Lady and gave a modest nod. "Ellemere Mistra, at your service mi'lady." It was inappropriate to hide her blue tattoo under gloves but it had a tendency to shine in the slightest bit of like like a beacon. She still couldn't help a bit of an uneasy feeling in her gut about the number of people around her.

[xanathiel]

In all of my years, I've been sent on quite a few pointless or foolish missions for the Varden, but this operation definitely topped them all.

Ever since the summit was compromised and that attack thwarted, the Varden and the Empire had been in a state of absolute panic and paranoia. Odd plans were made and even more suspicions were raised, but nothing quite trumped the situation which I currently found myself in, at the moment. Nasuada hadn't ordered me to come to this silly little party- that commission had come from Kyemen- though I realized it was in the Varden's best interests if I were to attend. I had originally protested, saying that it would do no good for me to be there, since I'm not the most inconspicuous member that could have been sent. After all, I am a Shade. I don't exactly blend in with others very well, and my presence could set off any attacks earlier than expected. But it had been insisted by others without Nasuada's knowledge, saying that I would prove more useful than I thought, and as I live to serve her, I agreed. Although that is not to say that I liked it.

When I arrived, I couldn't help but scoff at all of the useless trinkets adorning the bodies of the revelers. Necklaces, rings, brooches, clasps, capes, and lockets were piled onto the party-goers like they intended to smelt them for armor. Absolutely useless! Why anyone would entreat to such gaudiness was beyond me, but I imagined that it likely had something to do with their precious mortal vanity. Silly little people.

The clothes I was wearing were given to me by the Varden's own seamstresses, but they were unhappy with having to provide me with anything. They had been ordered to make an ensemble for me that would only complement my natural appearance so that it could be played off. My eyes were concealed by a pair of glasses with ovular lenses, which had been tinted with coal smoke to block anyone from seeing my red irises. They were rather practical, and I decided that I would keep them after this operation in case I needed to do more work in the public view. My clothes, themselves, weren't nearly so subtle. My breeches were black as coal, and I wore an incredibly soft, velvety crimson tunic that helped to disguise my hair as just another part of my attire. For this, I was appreciative. I didn't need everyone staring at me and screaming at the top of their lungs while running away with the word "Shade" being repeated a hundred times...

Scanning the crowds behind my lenses, I was able to locate the rendevous target. One woman, Lady Kuran, was in charge of this debacle. Seeing her, along with other members of the Varden, confirmed that I had been the last to arrive. Good. Just as planned, then. Now I wouldn't need to suffer through the torturous exchanges of pleasantries and salutations.

Walking over to the gathered infiltrators, I watched as several others bowed or showed other signs of being lower in social station. Unlike them, I did not bow, and I never have. Not even to Brom, or Ajihad, or Nasuada. This is just my way. Instead of bowing to Lady Kuran, I nodded to her to signify that I was ready.
"I am Xanathiel. Let us skip the pointless formalities and get to work."

[KYOU KANZAKI]

& I WAKE UP EVERY EVENING
WITH A BIG SMILE ON MY FACE
( and it never seems out of place )

Grace. Kyou was full of grace and she was beautiful tonight. Her mother had tried to get her into a kimono. As much as Kyou loved them, it did not make her look slim nor did it look that attractive on her. Wearing a black strapless gown, she accessorized it with a black rose that she had clipped on her hair. Everything was perfect. Her pale arms hung loosely at her side and she had even used a glove to make herself look even more graceful. Though little people knew, inside that glove held her poison darts she used on her enemies. Hidden in her dress, she had a knife strapped on her leg, ready to use. Oh, yes. Kyou looked lovely and almost as beautiful as an elf, but she was as deadly as a white asp. Getting out of the carriage that carried her from the castle to her destination, her long slim legs showed a bearable amount of skin before the black gown covered it completely. A footsman helped her out and was blushing at the way she was looking at him. Smirking seductively, she gave him a wink before walking towards the stairs. With every side she used, she held on to the top of her gown, helping herself move more freely. Her dark chocolate brown eyes looked at a couple of the guards that were staring at her. Giving a sweet wave with her bare hand, they all turned red. Of course they would turn red! Kyou was the most beautiful girl here! She knew it. Nobody was as graceful as she was. Nobody could charm any man as great as she could. The only man she couldn’t charm that she knew of was…

Dammit. Idiot, Arwen… She heard someone swear behind her. Turning around, she saw the dark haired prince that she so badly wanted to charm, yet was unable to. The tall man was cursing at something while fixing his shirt. He wore something a little bit more informal, as if he was just going out. It was nothing fancy at all! Kyou growled in her mind while looking at him with a look of annoyance shown on her pretty face. She had to admit though; the tall dark haired man was very good looking even with that simple outfit. He had a belt on and a dagger was hanging on his belt as well as another large and long sword. The legendary sword that she had heard about all the time. He looked up and it looked as if he didn’t recognize her. With a smirk, she walked up to him and called out, Ah! Dearest Murtagh! It truly as been a while! He turned around at the sound of his name. Confusion was written on his face, but was replaced with a cold looking stare. Kyou licked her lips seductively before giving him a sweet looking smile. Even his tone was cold to the bone!

May I help you…Lady? Kyou rose a brow. He didn’t know her name? How horrible! She gave a dramatic sigh before touching his bare arm gently. He move away from her slightly, glaring at her. How could you not remember me? You see me with Arwen all the time! The girl must of talked about me sometime! His grey eyes widened slightly in surprise before looking icily at her. Yes, he knew her. Arwen had warned him about her. Kyou Kanzaki. The lady Kanazki who continued to annoy Arwen to no end. His cool grey eyes stared icily at the woman in front of him who was smirking in delight.

Oh. It’s you. His voice turned flat as he looked away from her. Kyou grinned. Yes! He remembered her. In the most casual voice she could create, she touched his arm again. So, Murtagh? What brings you here? He stiffened at the touch. He sort of wished that Arwen was here to keep that woman away from him. The girl had fussed about his clothing and everything about him earlier today. She had even had the guts to take his gloves away from him! He had been looking for them earlier and now he realized that she had taken them away from him. She was a sneaky girl and he hated that about her. Now, he was stuck with just a dagger and a sword. He had planned to take her glove that had a secret knife compartment, but she had decided to take that away from him. Now this woman was bothering him. Murtagh growled at her and roughly pushed her away.

It was a pleasure meeting you, Lady Kanzaki. Excuse me. He stiffly said while walking away. Kyou stood there, looking at his walking figure. Her dark brown eyes turned darker, if it was possible. Anger flooded into her mind as she followed him with as much pride she had left. She watched him as he approached the Nihon woman, Lady Renn and said,

Lady Renn. It’s a pleasure to see you. You look beautiful tonight. Has everyone arrived yet? His voice was cool as he greeted the tall woman. His grey colored eyes looked the other woman in the eyes, no sign of smile formed on his lips. Not even a smirk. Clearly, he was not in the mood to smile. Kyou made her way towards the woman and gave Murtagh a sweet smile before she too introduced herself in Nihonese.

Kuran-san. Ohisashi buri desu ne? Kyou Kanzaki desu. It was as polite as it could be. She had told Kuran that she hadn’t seen her for a while and then she introduced herself. She gave her a proper and formal bow, now looking like a curtsy with the length of her dress. Her dark hair trailed off her back and the curls bounced as they fell in front. With a flick of her hand, she got some hair to flow gently back to her back. With a smile, she then continued on in Nihonese. Kuran-san, It’s going to be a pleasure working with you. The language went smoothly off her tongue. Kyou had a perfect accent in Nihonese and in the English language. She had no accent when talking to the other Alagaesians. She waitied for an answer before watching Murtagh walk off towards a direction of a pretty dark haired woman with blue eyes. She hid her disgust as she placed on a perfect smile and followed him. He was giving her a small bow and Kyou felt the annoyance pricking in.

Lady Nayeli. It had been a while since the last time we have met. You look beautiful tonight. The dress looks beautiful on you. He complimented with a small warm smile on his handsome features. On another note, he heard Arwen’s voice in his head screaming at him to compliment her more. He quoted in his mind. Nayeli likes you, so be NICE! Got it, Murtagh? Her voice echoed in his mind. He shook the voice out with an irritated look on his face. He wiped that off quickly replacing it with a cool smile. The girl was angry that she wasn’t able to go with him and wanted him to do everything as perfect as she would of. With a small smirk at Nayeli, he added, Oh, and Arwen sends her…er..love. He turned slightly pink before giving a small shrug. Kyou then smirked at him. In a cool tone that matched his exactly, she commented,

So… Murtagh, huh? You look quite dashing tonight. A smirk came upon her lips. He had an urge to roll his eyes before frowning in disgust. As do you. You look quite hideous for a whore. He shot back with an annoyed look. Kyou gave a small chuckle as if he was joking. In a sweet and light tone, she continued on. Admit it. You know you love me. You just can’t resist me. Murtagh even wondered why he bothered to answer her back. In an angry tone, he growled, Right. I’m sure many men can resist you. Her smile continued to play on her face as she sweetly then said, Murtagh? Go and die in a hole, please? He gave a humourless chuckle before turning his attention towards Nayeli. Kyou’s cool and sweet voice then cut in, making him turn ridgid.

I’m glad that dirty half breed didn’t come here tonight. Vermin shouldn’t be allowed to in to these sorts of places. Her voice became light as if she was talking to Murtagh for a while now. He stiffened and glared hard at her. He was about to lose his cool before he realized what the woman was trying to do. In a cold and icy tone he snarled at her. Quiet, whore. You have no right to say such things about Arwen like that. Kyou’s smile widened if possible. She placed a finger on her glossy lips as she gave a fake gasp. Giggling, she smiled at him and lightly continued on.

Protective of your girlfriend, are you Murty? Pity Arwen isn’t here to see that. She pretended to shake her head sadly. Murtagh then lost his cool and snapped, She’s NOT my girlfriend. She’s my sister! Kyou smirked and looked him up and down. That thing your sister? Please. Spare me the lies. She laughed and waved her hand. He caught it and gripped it hard, his grey eyes turning dark. Don’t you ever dare insult her like that again. You worthless… He was cut off with something poking at his neck. Kyou’s hand was reached up to his neck and in her hand was a tiny needle that was at his jugular. He gritted his teeth together, watching Kyou’s expression turn amused.

Ah~ ah~ ah~! Careful Murty. You might get yourself killed like that. Murtagh growled at the so called ‘nickname’. He let her hand go and she retracted her hand and quickly hid the needle. She was quick and almost as sneaky at Arwen. She was smirking at him and he gave a small annoyed grunt. He then prayed in his mind that the night would be over quickly. He couldn’t stand another moment with this woman.

[/center]

WORDS,, i dunno
TAGGED,, op3 PPL
OUTFIT,, CLICK
MUSIC,, dead end countdown- the new cities
NOTES,, poor murtagh.
TEMPLATE,, by PANIC! ITS LAUZ of CAUTION

[Ze Flying Wraithetti Monstress]

After Gorgophone had been suitably silenced, I relaxed a little bit. When it came to skill, she was the one I was most concerned about. She was well over one hundred years old- unattainably ancient for a human, but as an elf she wasn’t even out of her twenties. She had lived in a library all her life on top of that, had never held a weapon, and her magical talents left much to be desired. And her appearance, though masked with human makeup and clothing, was still very much elven. However, Gorgophone also appeared to have very little confidence and was highly nervous, making her exceedingly easy to manipulate and command. Though obviously unhappy and afraid of her position, she took it without any more complaint. After reading up on my fellow team members as well as observing them, I knew that very few of them would take to their duties lying down.

As these thoughts crossed my mind, I saw more members of my operation approaching nearly in unison. The first was Lady Nayeli- daughter of Lady Kaytlin and Sir Bryce, an Imperial knight. She was one of the two Riders among us, the second being Murtagh, but her dragon, Osiris, would also be present. I was worried that her presence might be questioned. Admittedly, I hardly recognized her- dressed in an elegant silver gown embroidered with gold, it was a far cry from the vulgar skin-tight leather she usually donned. Nayeli had become an assassin, preferring death over the bitterness of life at court- and I couldn’t say I blamed her- but she was far too well-known for my tastes. Galbatorix would find out, and that put the entire coalition’s very existence at stake, as well as my high standing with the man and perhaps my life. I folded my arms, my face grim as she approached, a smile on her face. This too was new. Normally she was so cold and brittle even winter would steer clear of her.

“Lady Renn Kuran.” She gave a small bow. She radiated confidence, much unlike Gorgophone. ”Osiris and Lady Nayeli reporting for duty.”
“Ah, is the Lady Kuran here?” My attention was attracted to a blatantly redheaded elf as she approached. “I was told to meet her for something.” After gawking about like some brain-dead cow, she finally recognized me and gave a slight nod. “Ellemere Mistra at your service, milady.”

Why were there so few humans on this operation? Only a fellow Nihonese, Kyou Kanzaki, and myself, were proper humans, untouched by dragon magic. This elf, though much shorter than most I’d seen, still managed to stick out like a sore thumb due to her violent shade of hair and high features. I knew very little of Mistra, only that she had grown up in Du Weldenvarden before leaving to join the Varden. I distrusted elves in general, and this one had made a proper fool of herself by loudly searching for me. She also had a very noticeable bright blue tattoo that she’d left uncovered. At least she’d dressed simply- a modest navy dress. The fact that I knew nothing of her gave me reason to worry, though. I glanced over at Nayeli, whom I had yet to reply to. There was no sign of Osiris, one small saving grace. The last thing I needed was a dragon in here.

“How lovely you’ve managed to show up,” I said cattily. “But on a side note, perhaps you lovely ladies would do better to be maintaining some form of seriousness on an operation such as this.” I glared at the three women darkly. “If you are all so keen on being recognized for what you are, perhaps you would best serve me by hiding under a table and keeping a watchful eye out for-”

I broke off, my lip curling into a sneer of disgust when I saw a very familiar figure only several yards away from me. Schrren the Shade was completely undisguised- but then I remembered that he was fond of hiding his ridiculously ugly features with a thin magical shroud. To the untrained, he looked very beautiful. A fat load of good that would do against heavily trained operators. They’d see his Shade aura from a mile away. I felt my highly disciplined temper starting to rise, and it must have shown on my face, because when he looked at me his smile immediately disappeared. He excused himself from the attractive blonde man who’d been keeping him company- Schrren was highly sexual, up to the point where he didn’t even care about the gender of his partner, and was very likely to cause the entire party to start having a mass orgy. That would actually make quite the distraction, but for now, I was angry that he had failed to follow the very first order of any organized operation- report to your commander.

“A pleasure to see you all.” He very purposely insulted me by kissing Nayeli’s hand first, and then Gorgophone’s. Gorgophone made a tiny shriek and actually fled behind me. Smirking, he reached for my hand last, but I pulled it away before he could get his disgusting lips onto it.
“I am your commanding officer, Schrren, not a doe-eyed floozy. You shall treat me as your commanding officer. Like all else who has shown up so far, you have failed to disguise yourself properly.”
“Hey!” snapped Gorgophone, suddenly glaring at me. “You’re hardly disguised yourself!”
“I am no elf, nor a Rider, nor a Shade. At most, I shall be regarded as corrupt politician looking for a cut of the illegal profits. Is this so shocking?”
“I… er. I don’t…”
“Exactly.”
“Has anyone else arrived yet?” asked Schrren, in an attempt to change the conversation’s direction.
Annoyed, I couldn’t restrain myself. “Are you blind as well as lacking in intelligence?”

As I said those words, however, by sheer coincidence I saw a certain man making his way towards us. He moved slowly and deliberately, using a staff. Dressed entirely in black to match long ebony hair that was matted and looked unwashed, what really drew my attention were his eyes. Bone-white like they’d rolled back into his head, I immediately recognized him as the half-elf Duren Maethor. He was only a few years younger than myself, but his life had been notably more difficult- he’d grown up in Dras-Leona, stealing and avoiding slavery until becoming a slave trader himself. He extended a hand towards me, revealing a gaudy ring inset with dragons that made me certain he was who I thought he was.

“Duren Maethor, miss.” His words were slurred, but I smelled no alcohol on his breath, and I doubted he would have found me if he really was drunk. “So don’t leave a blind guy hanging here. I may not be able to find your hand. Now I do hope this is the Lady Kuran I was supposed to meet here and trust that I have not made a complete fool of myself.”
“It is,” I said lightly, squeezing his hand. I smiled faintly, knowing he would be able to hear it in my voice. “An honour to meet you, Sir Maethor.”

Though I was extremely adverse to touching- we did not shake hands in Nihon- I’d been forced to get used to it after years of navigating my way through life at court. And I found this man somewhat deserving of my respect. It did not matter that he was blind- in Nihon, highly trained blind priests guarded the country’s most sacred cultural and religious treasures. And despite his obvious blindness, his eyes as well as the ring gave me a somewhat disturbing realization that he could see perfectly well, if not with his eyes. However, the clever fake drunkenness and casual attire told me that he was probably the only person here who was actually suited to the operation. Deceit and skill put together made a formidable enemy. One, I reminded myself, that I might have to watch out for. It was very likely that everyone on the mission had ulterior motives.

“I am Xanathiel,” said a flat, cold voice. “Let us skip the pointless formalities and get to work.”

I met the eyes of the second Shade on the mission, but this one had actually gone to the trouble of disguising himself. Greeting me with only the faintest nod, I sized up the infamous Varden Shade. Incredibly tall and clothed in red and black, his eyes hidden by dark sunshades that nobles were so fond of using, I could feel irritation and displeasure pointed directly at me. Ah, so not particularly fond of the entire job, was he? Well, I had heard stories of the Shade’s complete lack of courtesy and tendency to voice his opinions. However, he reputedly made up for it with efficiency- he did his jobs, and he did them right. Since I had yet to witness this, however, he had yet to gain my respect. All members of the operation, regardless of the first impression they’d made on me, bad or good, were going to have to prove themselves worthy on this mission.

“In a moment, Shade,” I said coolly. “You must get to know your fellow team members.” And speaking of them, we were now only short two people…
“Lady Renn. It’s a pleasure to see you. You look beautiful tonight. Has everyone arrived yet?”
“Kuran-san,” said a voice in a language that made me break off from verbally ripping Murtagh apart. “Ohisashi buri desu ne? Kyou Kanzaki desu. Kuran-san, It’s going to be a pleasure working with you.”

Apparently, everyone had managed to arrive and fumble their way over to me. First was Murtagh Morzansson, the whinging, worthless Rider who constantly made his distaste of any and all nobles, especially the women, extremely obvious. His voice was edged, letting me know that the compliments were nothing but lies. I had watched his shenanigans more than once at court, and he was less than impressive. Of everyone on this mission, I was most irked by him. His companion was only slightly better. Lady Kyou Kanzaki was a fellow Nihonese, but she was Alagaësian in everything but physical appearance. Known throughout the Imperial court as a whore only exceeded in vulgarity by Malandra Ramakrishna, she now wore a sleek strapless dress that showed off her body. I wasn’t expecting us to find that much in common besides the language we spoke. Since it was only polite, I bowed and responded to her in Nihonese.

“Konbanwa, Kanzaki-san. Kichirou Ren’ichi desu. Watashi wa anata ni aete kōei ni omoi masu.” I politely greeted her and informed her of my real name, Ren’ichi Kichirou. I had merely taken on the name ‘Renn Kuran’ to avoid having everyone struggle to pronounce my very Nihonese real name all the time. However, the two of them proceeded to annoy me by going off and engaging in pointless banter with Nayeli instead of awaiting my orders. On top of that, Kanzaki suddenly removed a tiny stiletto from her sleeve, pointing it at Murtagh’s neck. Oh, certainly no one would notice that. Resisting the urge to remove my katana and lop a few heads off, I folded my arms into my sleeves and assumed an imperious manner that suggested that I was about to speak.

“Truly, the third party will be having nothing to fear from fools that you have proved yourselves to be.” That got their attention, so I continued. “I am unimpressed and not amused with what Straethir has given me to work with. Lacking of proper disguise, failing to obey your commander and toting around weapons where everyone can see them is not how one is going about a mission as vital as this.” I gave each perpetrator a cold-eyed glare. “If you are finding yourself unable to follow such rules, you may leave now. If not, and you continue to be … baka, I may be seeing you as a threat to the mission and execute you swiftly and without a warning. I do not care if you are lord of this or if you command that. Here, I am queen. I am highest authority. Failure to comply with highest authority results in death.” My voice never rose in volume or became notably angry, though it did carry an edge to it. “If you are prepared to listen, then listen to what I say. You may mingle and dance and act out as much as you please until the third party reveals themselves. They could do it right this very moment…” I noticed Gorgophone glance around frantically, much to my amusement, “or they might not at all. I only ask you to remain focussed and clear-headed. Intoxication is not recommended. When they do, act accordingly. If is another bomb, take cover. In case is an ambush, keep your weapons where they are being easily reached. Am I clear?”

Words;; 2161
Muse;; SO. HORRIBLE.
Thoughts;; Not a big fan of this post since it was just description, and so long that I couldn't fit a Euryale bit into it. Also, I apologize if my Japanese is off; I only have a basic understanding of the language. x3

[Lady Nayeli]

I wondered what other riders would be accompanying us this evening, this party was beginning to get crowded and I had never enjoyed crowds unless during the battle and in the field. I knew that Endorin was on another mission, though I had not heard with, except that he was with the Doctor and man I was not so sure about. I tried to ignore everything and everyone as I moved among the people, my silver dress catching a few eyes here and there. The dress, this beautiful dress was slimming around my body, moving with me, but giving me plenty of room to move, to fight how I wanted to fight. One dagger was fitted just below my hip, hidden by the dress completely.

I wondered slightly about Murtagh, which operation was he working with. I had not seen him, of course, I had not heard where he was, I did not know anyone that I was working with today. Which was completely normal, I never knew of anyone I was working with until last moment. I had introduced myself to the leader and some other woman, whom I did not know. But now I waited for my orders, though I was a rider I was having to take orders from someone other then the king. As I waited, a man came, though he looked slightly familiar, I could not tell, his eyes were a soft black color, almost brown colored, his hair was tied back smoothly and nearly perfectly.

I knew that the King had no idea about this, but I actually did not mind. It felt nice to be going against the King once in my life time, to do something for the land and not for him. I turned my eyes back to the man who had entered and then I had a feeling I knew who this man was. Schrren, a new man who had gained some ranking… He had brought for Endorin, the young elf rider who rode with us now, or well, when he could ride, he would be. I was with him on the dragon thing, my beautiful Osiris was still not large enough to ride, but that was okay. ”You watch yourself Nayeli, I am not down there to help.”

[/color] I smiled mentally at my brother before I allowed myself to relax. The men and women around me were drinking and dancing, a few I could tell wanted more then just a single dance.

As the man drew closer, Schrren if I was not mistaken, he took my hand and kissed it very sweetly. I removed it gently from his grasp, being careful as I wiped away the kiss from my hand. "A pleasure to see you all," I nodded slightly to him. ”Likewise.”[/color] I said to him softly, my voice was very cold and hard. I was not one who was for those annoying pleasantries. "Has anyone else arrived yet?" I wanted to answer, but he had not been talking to me. I rolled my eyes slightly and looked around, seeing many. Any of these people could be wish us, I wanted to tell him something smart ass, but I was being a lady tonight, at least, for the most part.

As I looked around for a moment, seeing another man coming towards us, a drunken smile on his face, something I was use to seeing on the face of those worthless soldier who were under my father. The man held a cane and I wondered why, but as he drew closer I could see that he was not looking at anyone in particular, just staring into space. He was blind? It was odd to think a blind man would be on our team, but he seemed to know a lot more then just how to be blind. I looked away for a moment, I did not like people staring at me and I doubted that he liked it. I just looked back at him for a moment when he let his hand out before us. The ruby on his finger glowing, along with emerald colored also, a dragon in or on the ring. It was a very amazing sight. ”I am sure I'm much more amazing.”[/color] I mentally laughed, smiling slightly as I looked back around for just a mere moment. “Duren Maethor, miss.” Okay, so now I knew this man’s name, though I just looked at him for a moment. He held a sly smile on his face and I could not help but allow a roll of the eyes to come to my face. “So don’t leave a blind guy hanging here. I may not be able to find your hand. Now I do hope this is the Lady Kuran I was supposed to meet here and trust that I have not made a complete fool of myself.” I could not help but smile slightly. This man had some form of class and I just turned my eyes back to the part, laughing as a few women fell over themselves trying to get attention from the men in this place.

We were once again joined by another, this time a elf, with bright red hair, very odd for a elf, but I had seen many rare things in a elf and Pylar had told me about the magic they could use to change what they looked like and I had seen a few strange looking once. She was walking over very casual like, not really caring much about anything. "Ah, is the Lady Kuran here? I was told to meet her for something." I looked at her again, this time looking away a little quicker. "Ellemere Mistra, at your service mi'lady." I noticed how her hands were gloved, though I did not know why. We were joined by yet another man, he did not bow, did not offer any form of greet and before royals.

"I am Xanathiel. Let us skip the pointless formalities and get to work." I rolled my eyes, he was some form of tough man, I could see it and his toughness was beyond pointless in my own eyes. I could not help but roll my eyes, was there really any point at being tough, it was only showing he had a big ego. I looked away from this group of people, to me all I saw before me were a few people not worthy of my time. There were a few I could see would be some what worthy, but I really just wanted to hurry up and do this. I thought a heard someone, thought I felt someone close to my mind, I knew it was Osiris, but I could sense so much now that it was not even funny. I tried to ignore it, everything in my mind was jumbled into so many things, I just needed to relax, for once this week, relax long enough to actually see what was going on.

As I turned my eyes, I saw him, his dark brown hair smooth nicely back and his whole body just held that handsome look to it. He was tense, I could see it, but I smiled at him, giving a gentle look in my eyes. ”Lady Renn. It’s a pleasure to see you. You look beautiful tonight. Has everyone arrived yet?” His grey eyes looked Renn in the eye and I looked at him for a moment. He was a gentleman, that much was for sure and I just smiled, looking away for a moment. He did smile, just gave his cool look and then another woman came over towards them.

”Kuran-san. Ohisashi buri desu ne? Kyou Kanzaki desu.” Her voice was strange to me, the language unknown to me. She bowed low to Renn and I looked at her for a mere moment before looking at Murtagh. Her brown hair was long, very pretty that was for sure. ”Kuran-san, It’s going to be a pleasure working with you.” She went back to normal language and I looked at the leader of this operation. I smiled when I saw Murtagh coming over me, my ice blue eyes watching his grey for just a moment. He bowed before me and I smiled.

”Lady Nayeli. It had been a while since the last time we have met. You look beautiful tonight. The dress looks beautiful on you.” I looked at my silver dress, the golden edges sparkled with beauty and I was happy my mother had done my make up well enough to hid the blush that came to my cheeks. I could feel how warm they were on my face and I smiled at him. Osiris growled in my thoughts, but I just allowed my smile to over take my features. ”Thank You, Murtagh… You also look very handsome this evening.”[/color] I could not help but complement and I thought about how Arwen would be rolling her eyes at me. ”Why don’t you just tell him your real thoughts!”[/color] I smiled slightly and looked up to the ceiling slightly, which was beyond beautiful tonight. ”Osiris sends his best wishes also.”[/color] A growl came through my thoughts and I could not help but think how mad he was getting. ”Oh, and Arwen sends her…er..love.” I smiled slightly and watched as he turned a small shade of pink.

A woman came up to us, it was the same one who spoke such a odd language. ”So… Murtagh, huh? You look quite dashing tonight.” I looked at Murtagh for a moment, seeing his rolling eyes before he allowed them to land on her once again. ”As do you. You look quite hideous for a whore.” I was slightly surprised by his words, but at the same time, found them rather amusing. I glanced at the woman and then allowed my eyes to land on a few others, which seemed to be some men who were staring at me for no reason. I allowed my cold eyes to bore into them before I allowed my eyes to return to Murtagh and this woman. ”Admit it. You know you love me. You just can’t resist me.” I rolled my eyes slightly, this woman was full of herself, but I looked at Murtagh, his own eyes showed his anger, well, at least I could see it. ”Right. I’m sure many men can resist you.” I could not help but smile, allowing my eyes to land back on her for just a moment. ”Murtagh? Go and die in a hole, please?” I smiled slightly, but looked at Murtagh and his attention returned to me. ”I’m glad that dirty half breed didn’t come here tonight. Vermin shouldn’t be allowed to in to these sorts of places.” I looked at her, my own anger coming through. I saw he was tense, he wanted to go crazy. I touched his arm, making sure he did not do anything rash. ”Quiet, whore. You have no right to say such things about Arwen like that.” I saw her smile widen. I watched her for a moment and looked into his grey eyes.

”She is not worthy of your anger,”[/color] I said, looking at her, giving her the most disgusting look I could give her, my own ice blue eyes cold, wanting nothing more then to call Osiris down here to feed on her. I could feel his own anger taking over my body, but I was trying to keep my cool. ”Besides, she just wants your anger… Let the other men give her pleasure, that is all she would be worth.”[/color] I said looking at him, hearing her own giggle as I looked at him. ”Protective of your girlfriend, are you Murty? Pity Arwen isn’t here to see that.” I looked at her for a mere moment, feeling Murtagh tension over take him. ”She’s NOT my girlfriend. She’s my sister!” I looked at her for a moment, my hand on his shoulder, trying to calm him down. ”That thing your sister? Please. Spare me the lies.” Her laughter taking over the area we were in, I glared at her for a moment. ”Don’t! You know what she is trying to do… Calm him down.”[/color] Osiris was right, she wanted all the anger she could get from him. ”Don’t you ever dare insult her like that again. You worthless…” I heard him stop, looking at him as she had reached her hand up to him. I saw the needle, my eyes narrowed slightly as I looked at her. I wanted to go crazy, but I felt more then that, Osiris was entering this war, mentally at least. ”Ah~ ah~ ah~! Careful Murty. You might get yourself killed like that.” I heard Murtagh growled and then, a voice touching my own mind, but it would be present in his mind and this girl’s.

”You hurt him, you slimy little wretch, you might want to go ahead and place yourself on my food plater.”[/color] I smiled slightly and got in front of Murtagh. I looked at him, my hand still on his shoulder, my ice blue eyes as soft as they could be. I knew I had to keep him calm, something inside told me to keep him as calm as I could. I knew that keeping him calm was like trying to control a fire without water, but it would have to do. I was still waiting for the main lady to say something, anything at this point. She had already showing her authority, but I was bond to do my best tonight. Osiris was staying high in the sky and was being out of sight, like I had told him to do. He had to stay out of this, it was the only right thing to do since the King had no idea about this and since I looked much different then normal, not many even recognized me here.

I was sure that Lady Kuran knew of my dragon’s presence, in fact, I had told them that he would be here, but out of sight. He knew this was a mission for only me and would only come in if I was at near death, to his distaste. I wondered about Thorn, now that Murtagh was here, where was Thorn. I was trying to be somewhat different then my normal self here, but I really did hate smiling and I was smiling tonight more then normal, it was making my cheek bones hurt, but right now, that smile had disappeared as I looked at this stupid girl before me and tried to keep Murtagh as calm as possible. Though, my own attention was taken by Lady Kuran, my own head turning towards her my hand removing itself from Murtagh shoulder, a small blush on my face, though hidden by the makeup my mother had been sure to lay on my face.

“Truly, the third party will be having nothing to fear from fools that you have proved yourselves to be.” I heard Osiris mentally laugh, this woman really had no idea. I knew this party was a plan and we had to stay completely out of sight, which meant, working to look like we were part of the party. “I am unimpressed and not amused with what Straethir has given me to work with. Lacking of proper disguise, failing to obey your commander and toting around weapons where everyone can see them is not how one is going about a mission as vital as this.” I was disguised! I was not nearly as flashy as many of these wretches and whores who walked around me. My weapons were hidden, completely out of sight. I could of brought in my own sword, the blade I had trained myself to use better then most and Osiris could of come in with me, but he did not. “If you are finding yourself unable to follow such rules, you may leave now. If not, and you continue to be … baka, I may be seeing you as a threat to the mission and execute you swiftly and without a warning. I do not care if you are lord of this or if you command that. Here, I am queen. I am highest authority. Failure to comply with highest authority results in death.” The king would not approve, though this mission was not even known to the King. I knew what I was doing, I did my job well, I killed without anyone even seeing the death, could move quickly and knew how to work around crowds, though I did hate them. ”If you are prepared to listen, then listen to what I say. You may mingle and dance and act out as much as you please until the third party reveals themselves. They could do it right this very moment…” I noted that someone did not like that idea at all and glanced around quickly. “or they might not at all. I only ask you to remain focused and clear-headed. Intoxication is not recommended. When they do, act accordingly. If is another bomb, take cover. In case is an ambush, keep your weapons where they are being easily reached. Am I clear?” I nodded quickly, not at all surprised.

I did not plan on lowering myself to the levels of drinking nor did I plan on mingling much, though a dance would be nice, at least no one would wonder about why I stood around, glaring at everyone. I glanced at Murtagh, but again, did nothing. I knew he was mad enough, but I did not want him to know that I liked him too much. ”I don’t even want him to know that.”[/color] Osiris was not to happy about the idea that I liked Murtagh, of course, the occurrence had surprised me. I had not been prepared to actually like Murtagh. I looked at Lady Kuran, waiting permission to mingle with the others and hide among the crowd. We had all arrived, though I did not care for what I saw… I honestly only liked one out of all these people and that was Murtagh himself.



Word Count:: 3,023
Comments:: Hmmm... I guess it is better then the first.
Tagged:: Renn Kuran::Euryale Gorgophone::Ellemere Mistra::Schrren::Duren Maethor::Xanathiel::Murtagh::Kyou Kanzaki
Color Code:: Lady Nayeli::E54C4C :: Mighty Osiris::A92929

[/blockquote][/size]

[zkjt]

Hmph. Of all the miserable, conceited, show-offy, people in this world, I was stuck with numero uno. The little bitch acted like she controlled the universe, even though she was what, a foot smaller than me? So when I try being polite, she mocks me, and yells at me. Oh that definitely tweaked a nerve. Sure I was a shade, but that doesn't mean I don't know my manners.

“I am your commanding officer, Schrren, not a doe-eyed floozy. You shall treat me as your commanding officer. Like all else who has shown up so far, you have failed to disguise yourself properly.” I was quiet for a while, absorbing her words. Then with a cheesy smile, I bowed deeply. "I apologize dearly madame. But I am sure my magical coverage will protect me from most people's eyes. Contrary to what you may think, not everyone is as powerful as you, and can see through my shroud." Okay, yes I was mocking her. But the way I did it she could never accuse me of anything other than being deeply sorry. I saw the anger cross her face, but the slim blond elf quickly hastened, whether to my defense or just to argue for the heck of it, I didn't know. My mind drifted off, and I lost track of the conversation. I didn't really even think of the fact she scolded me for my question. But I was snapped out of my reverie by the feel of shade magic.

I looked up to see a tall man walking through the crowd toward us. People moved out of his way, whether because they sensed his magic or because he was so intimidating, I couldn't tell. But I stood up straight and stared at him the entire way he came toward us. "I am Xanathiel. Let us skip the pointless formalities and get to work." Well jeez. "The funny thing is my friend, that the work IS the formalities."I chuckled at my own joke. "Our so-called-work is mingling with the crowds, so you might want to learn to look like you're enjoying yourself." I flashed him a breezy smile then returned my gaze to Renn. Oh. Now she was talking with a slim woman who liked remarkably like Renn. I blinked, not recognizing her. But I didn't recognize the man next to her. Murtagh. With a grin I waved at him, remembering our conversation at the Summit. My, my. After my brief evaluation of the two new members, I returned my gaze back to Renn. She already looked furious. But I pretended not to notice and listened carefully to what she had to say.

“Truly, the third party will be having nothing to fear from fools that you have proved yourselves to be.” Ouch. She continued before I could say anything. “I am unimpressed and not amused with what Straethir has given me to work with. Lacking of proper disguise, failing to obey your commander and toting around weapons where everyone can see them is not how one is going about a mission as vital as this.” What was her problem today? I wondered. I looked around at the other members and saw that some looked impressed, others bored, and yet some looked angry. Hm. “If you are finding yourself unable to follow such rules, you may leave now. If not, and you continue to be … baka, I may be seeing you as a threat to the mission and execute you swiftly and without a warning. I do not care if you are lord of this or if you command that. Here, I am queen. I am highest authority. Failure to comply with highest authority results in death.” Wow. The little woman with no boobs had guts. “If you are prepared to listen, then listen to what I say. You may mingle and dance and act out as much as you please until the third party reveals themselves. They could do it right this very moment…or they might not at all. I only ask you to remain focused and clear-headed. Intoxication is not recommended. When they do, act accordingly. If is another bomb, take cover. In case is an ambush, keep your weapons where they are being easily reached. Am I clear?” Well...I had a few things to say.

"Umm..may I speak?" When Renn nodded I stepped forward. "Well, I have a couple things to say. The first being, thank you for the speech Renn." I smiled here, much to her anger. "The second being, I don't think that even if we did disobey you, you are allowed to umm.. kill us. Well, I don't mean to undermine your authority, but killing any of us will result in questions. Why did Renn kill Schrren? The Empire will want answers. And when the Empire goes digging, they'll find out about our little club. So, I think you should scratch that. And I'm sorry if my disguise isn't worthy of you Renn. I assure you, I'll be amplifying my veil. Anything else....oh yes. I would like permission to go and mingle now." I smiled here, and bowed once more. The more theatricality, the better.


OOC; I apologize dearly for the ugliness and badness of this post. I know, it sucks. I'll do better next time I promise!

[Arizae]

Duren Maethor did not know the true origin of Renn Kuran, but he could feel the hesitation in her hand as she took his. This was not something normal for wherever she had come, and he was honored that she had blessed his request by taking his hand. There was something about the way she held his hand that let him know it was indeed an honor to have her actually shake his hand. It was also very crucial to the blind man, because now he felt he knew their leader much better. The feel of her skin the speed of her pulse, a piece of the person. Touch was a wonderful median to seeing. And her hands were incredibly soft, the kind that were lotioned and catered to. These were not farm hands or sword hands; these were writing hands, an artist’s tool. The hands of a true ambassador. They were also incredibly tiny, now he had a better feel for her height and weight. So much could be learned from such a simple act, and he was pleased that she had let him learn so much of her. The act might have been simple respect for her, but for Duren it was like she was writing a description of herself for him.

“I am not knighted, but you do me a great honor M’lady. The pleasure is all mine.”

[/color]

She was smiling, and he grinned as well, dropping back slightly to allow others their introduction. This Lady Kuran was good at this game; he began to wonder if his…well…other motives for being here would come to fruition with such a capable leader in charge. Ah well, this would be fun no matter what happened. Naturally he would not ‘close his eyes’ no they’d be wide open for opportunities. He didn’t get to where he was today by slacking off when in the presence of a beautiful and polite foreign ambassador. Not that he’d ever met one before…and then he had to keep himself from grimacing. This place was getting so loud!

The clamour throughout the hall was quite taxing on Duren’s ears. This was one of the many reasons he liked to avoid such things. Loud music, obnoxious laughs, shrill women gossiping in the corner…and all of it being picked up by his sensitive ears. The blind half-elf was struggling internally to block out hundreds of tiny side conversations. Even now he could hear the pluck of the violin’s strings, the slight spittle flying with the sweet sound of the lute. There was the gurgle of bile raising from someone’s throat, too much champagne anyone? The constant thudding step of those on the dance floor and everywhere people whispering. Yet he could not dull himself to the sounds, for he had to listen. This was why he had chosen this mission. They were not on the offensive like the other missions, no this was a defensive mission, and he had to be on his toes wait for the strike. That was exactly how he lived every day of his life, constantly on the defensive before he could turn the tables and strike. Duren was perfect for this mission of subterfuge but it certainly was giving him a headache. If only the champagne did something to dull it, but no the alcohol was too weak for his hard head.

As more people came to their small group Duren stopped a passing servant and picked up a sparkling glass of champagne from the tray he carried. Throwing his head back he trained the contents of the glass and then placed it lightly back on the tray. Waving the servant away he turned back to the group and grinned. Why was no one else enjoying the festivities? Seemed they weren’t used to working like a beggar or a thief…silly people didn’t know the streets of Dras-Leona! For here were gathered grand dragon riders and magical shades, ah let them fight while armies charged at each other. Leave this to Duren; a blind man could take care of this job better than a dragon. Even as he tried to wave over one of the servants holding a food platter another elf entered their small circle. Duren had to admit elves just naturally smelled nice. It was pleasant to be around their soft footfalls and gentle breathing. Calming to the ears. Then as he finally secured one of the oysters being offered yet another party member joined. He took a moment to himself, put the shell to his lips and slurped up the delicious little thing inside. Absolutely delicious. Duren couldn’t help but replace the empty shell with yet another full one. His sense of smell suffered for a second as the strong smell of oyster filled his nose, but he could hear the steps of this next newcomer. Sluuurp! Ah, wonderful…better pay attention now, why didn’t he go to parties more often? The food was wonderful! Duren waved the waiter away and nearly gagged as the wicked smell entered his nose again. He was convinced shades carried a scent of sulfur; it had to be the spirits inhabiting their bodies. Shades were not calming to be around and they made all his senses go on high alert, certainly not his type to hang around with.

The smell of the shade was absolutely nothing compared to the arduous torture his ears went through by listening to the last of their party. Two whining little mosquitoes were picking and definitely glaring at each other. So they had children with them…oh bother…His sharp sense of hearing was certainly a horrible thing to have at this moment. Oh you look dashing, you’re a whore, go die, she’s a half-breed…wait, half-breed? Certainly half-elves weren’t all that bad. Duren would have to remember that comment for later. This lovely new addition that drove the new lizard man up a wall might back a wonderful serving lady for a certain lord. He was always looking for ‘servants’ to ‘serve’ him. Such a good customer, paid top dollar for top quality…this…Kyou might have to go on discount though. Her temperament would never be cured. Scratch that, she wouldn’t be a serving lady. Mines would suit her better. Get some dirt into those lungs so that voice didn’t make his ears ring so loudly. Murty, Duren snorted slightly in laughter, what a funny word. Might as well try to look like he was enjoying the party. Where did the oyster man go? But no e couldn’t get more food right now…Lady Kuran had to speak her peace now that they all gathered.

Duren could not help but agree with much of what she said, and couldn’t help but think that many of her words were not truly directed at him. He was, after all, blending in. Ha! And he was blind to put the cherry on the cupcake! (I don’t know if cupcakes exist in Alagaesia…but they should) Besides, it was not Straethir that had gotten him to where he was, Duren knew of his skills and had specifically asked for this assignment. Hell, walking without tripping should be impressive for him. Couldn’t see his feet after all. Maethor looked like anyone else in the ballroom, enjoying dancing, food and drink. These bums looked like they were here to crash the party. To top it all off his weapon was also a blind man’s crutch. Oh beautiful day. However, Duren’s respect of Renn did drop slightly; this was not the time to get so angry at these people. They would not respond well to it and the last thing they needed was a scene. Baka…wonder what that word meant. It was fun. He would have to use it sometime. Now her empty threats were indeed quite entertaining, even if the strange chill that swept through his body was not. Had she just looked at him with death in her eyes? She was in charge of the mission yes, but failure resulting in death? That was something that would not happen while Duren was in his city. The beggar prince would die in his streets when the streets decided to take him, not when a foreigner thought him a failure. Ah well she was saying what she needed to in order to maintain control and get everyone to focus. Good for her, being a leader of a group like this must be horrid. Duren would take his beggars and thieves over this ilk any day.

Now he was prepared to listen, after all she was quickly raising the tone of her voice, and it was not so pleasant to Duren’s already strained hearing. Trying to pick out a possible attack over all this noise was incredibly frustrating. However, her words alluded to just that problem. The third party could attack at any time. He loved what she was saying, mingle, dance…act out as you please. That was all the invitation Duren needed to get away from these stiffs. For some reason his attention focused on the first nervous subject that he had narrowed on, the possible bait. Now it seemed Lady Kuran’s words had stressed the poor girl out even more. She was surrounded by intimidating presences and shaking from nervousness. Now that would simply not do. There could quite possible be a bomb, though Duren had done his homework, he could smell trace amounts of the substance used to make those explosives now. However it was still an iffy ability, nothing near perfect, he just hoped he could catch a bomb before it went off. Perhaps Lady Kuran did not know of that ability…he turned his eyes on the foreign ambassador, the useless white orbs almost laughing.

“I can smell trace amounts of the stuff used to make explosives, if I get whiff of it…”[/color] the half-elf couldn’t help but chuckle to himself, “I will let all know.”[/color]

Now he would focus on the other commands, the ones where she had said to mingle and enjoy themselves. Duren had half a mind to ask the lovely Lady next to Renn for a dance. The poor nervous girl needed to relax, she would be fine surrounded by all these…never mind, perhaps she might be in danger. Before he could step forward the sulfur smelling shade decided to speak his peace. Duren exhaled heavily, now was not the time to fight with each other. No one was going to kill you silly shade, worry not about the questions that might be asked and forgot about whatever silly disguise you had on. The best disguise was an easygoing attitude and plentiful drinks and dance. Permission to mingle, don’t ask fool! Go have some fun!

Then before anyone else could interrupt him the half-elf made his move, suddenly self-conscious about the condition of his hair and the strangeness of his eyes. He approached the Lady Euryale Gorgophone, though he did not know that was her name. As far he knew her dress was a horrid color and she had a wart on her forehead, but right no she exuded innocence and vulnerability. Duren could smell her fear and he knew she was not trained for these situations, the strong forces at her side must be body guards of some kind. She had always been protected and now she felt danger, let her enjoy the party. He could watch over her better than these gather, he could hear the enemy coming from a mile away even with this noise.

The half-elf bowed low, and then slowly rose, a charming smile bringing warmth to his face. Naturally he could not see the face of the young elf, but his eyes found hers nonetheless, he just had to hope she wouldn’t be turned away from that freakish gaze. It would be rude to call her beautiful, she could see easily enough that he was blind, but the soft elven breath, the wonderful smell that clung to her…no he could not mention those now. Duren would be the gentleman and try to help the nervous lady out by making her feel comfortable. Saying you smell nice is considered creepy among the seeing.

“Duren Maethor m’lady, I do not believe we have been introduced, but perhaps you would do the honor of accompanying me to the dance floor?”[/color][/size][/blockquote]

[silence13]

"Such scathing words to the people you direct, especially when some are your elders, is not a smart move young lady." From a height not an inch above Kuran she wasn't all too menacing to most people. The Lady included of course. She put her gloves away and bit back the urge to break her neck. "To break a bone is an easy task and when you dislike the person it makes it all the easier, remember that milady." She murmured giving a short nod and surveying the room quietly. "Jierda." she whispered causing someone's champagne flute to shatter. She walked delicately about the room making casual conversation with a friendly smile. She kept an eye on some of the more intoxicated people and dodged getting champagne on her dress. She looked back at the Lady occasionally to make sure she was safe despite her anger at her for insulting her. She walked over and held out her hand. "I am sorry for my earlier behavior. Your words were not exactly welcome and were not expected." She was begrudging but she didn't want to be on a blacklist anytime soon.

[xanathiel]

Urgh. Serving the Varden had its downsides, certainly. Namely, having to deal with the arrogant and the foolhardy while not being able to teach them a lesson in dignity. As Kuran waved his words away and told him he needed to meet the others, he rolled his eyes behind his glasses with a small scoff at the back of his throat. Apparently this woman also believed him to be uninformed as well as stupid. He had already seen their faces, and being a rather good judge of character, he had known which ones were the likely candidates for gathering intel and which were more suited to field work. However, Xanathiel was not an idiot, and he knew that if he hoped to accomplish anything in coming here, he had to at least listen to what the Nihonese woman had to say. She went into a spiel about how unreliable they were and how she'd have them executed if they stepped out of line. If this insignificant and rude woman was ever able to kill him, he had failed miserably in keeping his guards up and deserved to be killed!

Off to his side, he heard a low voice tell him that the entire operation focused on formalities, and he sighed. Spirits above, does anyone even know how to conjugate and interpret a simple sentence anymore? He recognized the aura of a Shade from this man, and knew instantly that he was using a shroud to conceal his appearance to the mortals at the party. A shame there were likely magic users on the lookout for anything like that. But, it wasn't his place to tell him how to do his job, only to do his own. So, he simply ignored the so-called advice of the man and looked around at the other operatives. Magic was strong here, specifically within the radius of the group. He knew a few of the others only by reputation, but yet others were infamous. Murtagh, for instance. Along with a few other auras that he quickly identified as being linked to dragons.

He refrained from scoffing again. Riders and their precious order. They thought of themselves as being superior when they only knew a few parlor tricks and had an overgrown and horribly tamed lizard carrying them about like beasts of burden. He had never much cared for any Rider except Brom. That wasn't because he was a Rider, though; Brom knew power, respect, and most importantly, he was a man who could get things done. But these new whelps... They were just arrogance personified. If ever a Rider demonstrated that they could be like Brom, then he might consider not hating them so much. Might. That was a really big uncertainty.

He frowned and then nodded his head to Kuran after she had given her orders. As much as he may dislike her, she knew how to give orders and what to do, and that was at least something. She wasn't a total nitwit, unlike some of the others here...
"Understood, Kuran. I'll report back if I discover anything unusual."
With that being said, he immediately worked up a facade of amiability and charm. His smile looked genuine, his stride less rigid and far more fluid and purposeless. He was supposed to look like a reveler, and so a reveler he would be. He didn't have time to be childish and fight with his cooperators. He didn't give a damn if they argued and bickered amongst each other like stupid children, it wasn't his problem if they couldn't at least try get along. He looked amongst the others in the operation (the ones that weren't fighting, that is), and then added,

"It might be easier to maintain cover if we work in groups or pairs. Seeing as I'm not the sociable type, I might need someone to provide the charm I lack."
Spirits, if anyone even took his offer he'd be surprised. He was a Shade, and baseless rumors were certain to be abound. He doubted if anyone in the group could lay their differences aside and work with him here. Just as well, anyway...

[KYOU KANZAKI]

& I WAKE UP EVERY EVENING
WITH A BIG SMILE ON MY FACE
( and it never seems out of place )

Kichirou Renichi-san? Ah, souka. Kyou nodded with a smile on her face. Renn’s real name. Pity not everyone knew how to say it. With another formal Nihon bow, she added, Whatever you want me to do, I shall obey you. She rose and looked at the woman with a look of determination and a small cruel looking smile that came upon her face. Without another word, she followed Murtagh towards the Lady Nayeli.

Oh. Er, thank you. Arwen was the one who told me to dress like this. Apparently my sense of style isn’t good enough. She basically fixed everything for me. He looked embarrassed to admit it, but since Nayeli was Arwen’s friend it didn’t really matter that much. She warned him that Nayeli might kiss him tonight and that scared him. Arwen had a tendency to scare Murtagh easily since she was insane almost psychic. He ran a hand through his thick hair, for it was a bad habit of his now. Why did Arwen have to comb it back? It was fine the way it was! Murtagh grumbled in his mind before giving a small frown towards the asian girl who was approaching. He was nearly shaking with anger at what she was saying. Was she trying to get him to fall in love with her or something? What was with this woman? Murtagh wanted to kill her. Behead her pretty little head. Wait, did he had just think that she was pretty? His dark grey eyes glowered at the pretty dark haired girl who he was learning to loath. Arwen had warned him about girls trying to get him. He thought she was joking, but it looked like she was right. Again. This sort of anger was like annoyance. She was a bug and he wanted to squash her. He tried to calm down, but by the way she was trying to ‘seduce’ him, it wasn’t doing much. The boy was very tense when it came to subjects like Arwen. That woman knew nothing of Arwen! Filthy blood? That made Murtagh’s blood boil. Arwen was not filthy! How dare she call his sister filthy?

Kyou was amused. Murtagh looked so angry it looked almost beautiful. The girl beside him, Nayeli, wasn’t it? She was trying to calm the beast down. She nearly laughed because it looked so funny. With a cruel smile on her face, Kyou enjoyed creating a commotion. This Kanzaki was good at creating chaotic messes and was not good at calming people down unless she felt like flirting with someone. She watched as the girl snapped at her. Alright, so this girl wasn’t that bad looking. She wasn’t as pretty as her, though. Kyou smiled at the girl before lightly saying, Lady Nayeli, right? Ahaha, don’t tell me you’re friends with the filthy blood thing! I think you could do better than that. She sweetly told the other dark haired girl. While Murtagh was trying to kill her and going at her, Kyou stood there smiling innocently. Cocking her head slightly, she placed a finger on her chin and looked thoughtful for a moment.

Ehhh? Did you think I was trying to get you angry on purpose? Haha, No~! I was just simply telling the truth! she gave another giggle. Murtagh wanted to yell at her, but the woman beside him was trying to calm him down. All his mind could think of was ‘Kill. Kill. Kill!’. This woman was going down tonight. Looking at Nayeli, her blue eyes reminded him of Arwen’s own kind blue eyes. He gritted his teeth together, trying to stay calm. Forcing his own eyes away from Nayeli’s he glared hard at the woman. He made a grab for the other woman’s wrist, giving it a tight squeeze as if he was going to break it before feeling the pointy needle at his throat. Dammit. He knew that this woman was a trained assassin. Throwing her wrist away as if it was dirty, he glared at her with anger and disgust. Kyou on the other hand, was still grinning and smiling. It was then, Kyou heard an angry voice in her head. The voice of a dragon. She froze for a moment before looking annoyed. She turned towards Nayeli with cold and hard dark eyes that turned even darker. She was an accomplished assassin and she didn’t need anyone. While this onna with a lizard was also an assassin, she was nothing compared to Kyou. If the lizard died, she died. Simple as that. Smiling at Nayeli, she gave a mock bow as she grinned at the woman. Murtagh, on the other hand, was beginning to come back to his senses and looked coldly at the woman with an expression of hate on his face.

Your dragon is quite a mean one. You really should train him better, Nayeli-san~! Kyou knew no fear and she showed no fear. Murtagh hated this woman. With Nayeli trying to calm him down, he felt unstable. Why did this effect him so much? Emotions were weakness. The king had said that once. No matter how hard he tried, he wasn’t able to get rid of the emotions that he held for Arwen. Specific emotions too. He controlled himself enough to hear Arwen’s angry voice in his head. Calm down, Murtagh! You’re an idiot to get angry at that woman! Ignoring her is the best thing you can do now. Of course, she had never said that, but Murtagh figured if he made his own mind sound like her voice it would calm himself down. It did. The woman, Renn Kuran finally spoke to his relief. He stiffened also as well at the insults she threw at them. He didn’t glare, but he accepted them with a cold and hard look he threw at Kyou and Renn. Kyou turned around at the sound of Renn’s voice. She rose a brow, listening to the woman. Faking an innocent expression, she quickly apologized in her own language. While another man approached and spoke idiotically about somethings that were better left unsaid, she ignored him completely.

Honto gomen nasi, Kichirou-san. Atashi… she trailed off before catching Nayeli’s eye and switched back the English. I’ll do my best to serve you in this mission. It was foolish for us to of caused...a commotion. I understand you perfectly. She gave a bow before leaving the other woman’s presence. She gave a small wave towards Murtagh and Nayeli smirking as she did so. Murtagh’s blood was boiling while listening and watching the woman leave. Looking at the oriental woman, he managed a cold and hard tone. Lady Renn. I understand what you are saying and I will correct my mistakes. He moved away from her, without even a bow and made some eye contact with Nayeli as if beckoning her to follow him. She was the only one he really trusted at this moment. Truthfully, he wouldn’t even trust her but since he already knew her, she was the only one that would do for now. Murtagh half wished that Arwen was here with him for he really did trust her and her only. So far, she had kept all of his secrets safe and he knew her inside out. Although Nayeli had the same color of hair and the same color of eyes that Arwen had, he knew that she was no Arwen. With a small curse, he growled out to Nayeli.

If Thorn were here, he would of ripped her into pieces by now. How dare she insult Arwen like that? Coward. She only says it to others while she never says it to Arwen herself. He snarled at the end, a look of anger and disgust filled his face. Biting the inside of his cheek, he drew blood for he bit down too hard. As a waiter passed him, he took a cup of champagne from the plate. He drank it in a gulp, almost angrily. He didn’t get drunk easily for he and Arwen always drank together. She was the one who usually won, but he was catching up to her. He let himself chuckle silently to himself, a smirk appeared. The only time he really did smile was when he was with her. Now, he looked over at Nayeli and out of curiosity, he asked.

I never really got a chance to ask, but…when did you meet Arwen? I don’t exactly remember you ever practicing with her before. Not because he was suspicious, but more because he felt as if he knew too little of this woman while this woman knew too much of him. Arwen definitely would of talked about him. He knew that much. The girl was obsessed about him for some unknown reason. It sort of creeped him out, but made him slightly happy for some strange reason. His cold and cool glaze stared at a couple of noble woman who were winking at him and giggling. On the other hand, he noticed that the woman, Kyou, was now making her way over towards another noble. He wondered who, but didn’t even bother to think about her anymore.

Kyou was now walking towards a man who she found interesting. He was a shade and a very dull one too, from the looks of it. With a mischievous smile, she asked in a rather loud, yet not quite loud voice towards the man. Excuse me? You wouldn’t be called Xan here, would you? Her voice was innocent but her eyes were flashing mischievously with a seductive looking smile on her face. Besides, he was the one who had cut in and asked to be placed in pairs or something stupid like that. Her smile continued to stay on her face as she carelessly said,

You wouldn't mind being my partner, would you? Oh, you don't mind? That's just wonderful. She didn't even wait for him to finish and stood closer to him. In her mind, she felt disgusted that she was so close to a shade. Of course, she hated vermin like him! Kyou was proud to be clean of magic and pure human. Of course, she showed no disgust on her pretty face while she continued to smile and speak in a more conversational tone, Would you care for a drink?

[/center]

WORDS,, i dunno
TAGGED,, op3 PPL
OUTFIT,, CLICK
MUSIC,, California Gurls- Katy Perry
NOTES,, this is moving faster than I thought.
TEMPLATE,, by PANIC! ITS LAUZ of CAUTION

[Ze Flying Wraithetti Monstress]

I swayed slightly with terror once Renn fell silent. She hadn’t looked at me once during her entire tirade, but I knew that at least some of the accusations were directed toward me. I had survived a face-to-face meeting with the ruthless Queen Islanzadí as well as several negotiations in Aberon, but I hadn’t quite come face-to-face with a life-threatening situation yet, and those paled in the face of this. I was hit with the realization that there was a very likely chance that I was going to die here. I’d never thought much of my own future, figuring I’d live to an ancient age before passing away peacefully, but suddenly thrust into the political world, that would be highly unlikely. If Renn didn’t lose her tried patience and run me through, I’d likely be bombed, or poisoned, or captured for interrogation. If not here, then somewhere else. Suddenly feeling very unsteady, I continued to sway on my feet, babbling incoherent nonsense.

“Ambassador…” said Renn carefully, and I looked up at her to see something approaching actual concern on her face. “Would you be caring to sit down? I can do little for you if you collapse on me.”
“Oh… yes, I mean, um, thank you.” I dropped into the nearest velvet-lined chair with an embarrassing thump. “And you were incredibly clear, like, I can’t even being to explain how much I… what? Talking too much? Oh, okay. Sorry.”
“Um, may I speak?”

I squirmed violently in my seat as the Imperial Shade stepped forward. Though my magical skills were poor, I easily saw through Schrren’s skimpy disguise just because I was an elf. And his visage was terrifying- eyes as black as pitch that were only all the more obvious thanks to his pasty white skin and crimson hair, gaunt, sunken features that were more suited to a three-day-old corpse, and finally, the aura of evil that surrounded him. I had read about Shades, of course, knew their strengths and weaknesses, but fading text in an old but lovingly cared for book didn’t quite prepare me for meeting one. I pressed against the back of my seat, trying to keep as many inches as possible between us despite the fact that he wasn’t interested in me at all. Renn looked up at him with a flat gaze that completely contradicted the flashing fury in her eyes just moments earlier. Maybe that monologue of hers had vented out all her rage.

“What is on your mind, if you will allow the overstatement?” she said casually.
“Well, I have a couple things to say. The first being, thank you for the speech, Renn. The second being, I don’t think that even if we did disobey you, you are allowed to, umm… kill us. Well, I don’t mean to undermine your authority, but killing any of us will result in questions. Why did Renn kill Schrren? The Empire will want answers. And when the Empire goes digging, they’ll find out about our little club. So, I think you should scratch that. And I’m sorry if my disguise isn’t worthy of you, Renn. I assure you, I’ll be amplifying my veil. Anything else... oh yes. I would like permission to go and mingle now.” With an enormous fake smile and an over-the-top bow, he was finished. I was afraid that Renn might take out whatever exotic weapon she doubtlessly had on her person and run the Shade through, but she just stood there for several moments, deep in thought. Then she looked him straight in the eye and spoke formally.
“Schrren, I must be applauding you for the virtue of speaking your mind. A pity, then, that you are possessing the sin of not having very much on your mind.” She raised a hand to silence any comments before continuing. “Do you truly think I would kill you where you stand? I am a patient woman, Shade, and one that knows her enemy. Of anyone in this operation, you were easiest to find the information on. Your hedonistic revels are renowned across Alagaësia. Such a life you lead- rape, torture, murder…” I shrunk back into my chair with every term, “… every insult to human rights under the sun. You have lived a life of pleasure, there is no doubting this, but you may be unaware that such actions have consequences. Tell me, do you remember the names of your victims? Are they trophies, or merely forgotten, faceless images in your memories? I can assure you that you are anything but faceless to them. Prince Valkynaz of the Underdark, a creature of power and honour, is now a slave to your every wanton need, be it pleasure or torture. Marsada Vega, Captain in the Imperial Army, forced to give you everything you desire to protect her daughter from you. May I mention that she is in close association with my father, General Kaname Kichirou? And finally Lella- I doubt you remember her at all- an innocent girl who worked in a factory that you violated and subsequently left for dead in a back alley of this very city. These are not even the beginning, Schrren. All these people are willing to give you what you rightly deserve- all they need is a little push…” she stabbed her finger into the Shade’s chest, “in the right direction. Renn Kuran didn’t kill Schrren, Renn Kuran didn’t even know Schrren. Renn Kuran was so very sorry to hear of the beloved Shade’s demise. Have I made my point? I don’t care if the King himself joins us here. On this operation, he answers to me. If he fails to do so, I shall use him as nothing more than the pawn in a chess game that accidentally dies for its cause. Satisfied?”

I wasn’t surprised at Schrren’s angry reaction. All Shades were different- some weren’t even inherently evil- but all would stop at nothing to get their way. However, since Renn had adequately silenced him, her soft-voiced threats somehow amplified by their threatening tone and her light Nihonese accent, I glanced at the rest of the team members to see their reactions. Lady Nayeli, the pretty human Imperial Rider, had merely nodded before the vicious and horribly loud Kyou Kanzaki had gotten her attention again. Murtagh was in between them, and I didn’t doubt that Nayeli’s dragon was in on it too. The two humans only responded with a sentence or two each.

“Honto gomen nasi, Kichirou-san.” Nihonese was such a fascinating language. I’d have to learn it sometime. “Atashi…” she broke off, apparently remembering that Renn was the only one who could understand her, and continued in the common tongue. “I’ll do my best to serve you in this mission. It was foolish for us to have caused a commotion. I understand you perfectly.”
“Lady Renn, I understand what you are saying and I will correct my mistakes.”

Neither of them nor Nayeli seemed to care much, as they all promptly moved away before Renn could even give the rest of her orders. I craned my head to glance at her, expecting that such disrespect would cause her to snap, but her face was entirely impassive except for the faintest gleam of amusement in her eye. However, her attention was immediately drawn by Ellemere Mistra storming up. Schrren’s anger, which had been masked behind a façade of theatricality, did not compare to the flame-haired elf that stopped inches from Renn’s nose before snarling like an animal.

“Such scathing words to the people you direct, especially when some are your elders, is not a smart move, young lady.” I found myself preferring Schrren’s faux attitude. Elves were not to be trifled with when they were angry. Growing up with three highly territorial ones who were war veterans to boot had taught me that. “To break a bone is an easy task and when you dislike the person it makes it all the easier. Remember that, milady.” Without even waiting for a response, she stormed off, but not before shattering the elegant champagne glass of a female reveller, causing her to cry out before laughing it off and taking another one. Again, I glanced at Renn to see her physical response, but she actually spoke to me this time, at least partially to me.
“The true nature of the elf is revealed.” Then she glanced at me like I was some mutated freak. “And what happened to you?”
“I was born in a dungeon,” I answered frankly.
“Ah. I have the answer to my question. Thank you.”
“Understood, Kuran,” came the reptilian hiss of Xanathiel, interrupting the bout of sulking I was about to go into. “I’ll report back if I discover anything unusual.”

After the rage of both Ellemere and Schrren, I was surprised that this Shade accepted everything Renn had said without so much as a threat. I was even more surprised when he suddenly lost his air of power and authority, relaxing and even allowing a huge smile to cross his face. The man on a mission suddenly looked like your average minor noble on the prowl for wine, women, and song. I’d read several interesting interviews between Shades and anyone from their slaves to their betters in the battlefield, and found that each Shade was radically different from the other. Some weren’t even evil- the ones that were was what had made them so infamous. Xanathiel’s dark aura was far lesser than Schrren’s, and I found myself less afraid of him. But before Renn could voice her approval or disapproval, the one member who had yet to speak, the intriguing half-elf Duren Maethor, stepped forward to speak his mind.

“I can smell trace amounts of the stuff used to make explosives, if I get whiff of it…” he laughed suddenly, but I couldn’t fathom at what, “I will let all know.”
“Very good, both of you. Now-”
“It might be easier to maintain cover if we work in groups or pairs,” said Xanathiel suddenly. “Seeing as I’m not the sociable type, I might need someone to provide the charm I lack.”

I expected Renn to toss aside his opinion like a soiled rag, but she allowed him to interrupt her and even paused, appearing deep in thought. It was then that I felt a familiar consciousness brushing against my mind, and I willingly opened it. Although, I wondered why none of my three nursemaids had said anything this entire time. I glanced behind me, and the immediate heart attack I received left me in spasms all over the place.

‘Whuh- where are you?! Why did you leave me alone?’
‘We can’t linger about you like passed gas all evening, fool girl!’ snapped Lakhesis.
‘It would be too obvious if we were constantly lurking- mm, this is good chocolate…’ I facepalmed as Klotho munched. ‘Uh, what was I saying? Ah, yes. We can’t lurk behind you all night; we’d be entirely obvious.’
‘But-’
‘Relax, relax, we’ll be there in an instant if, as Lakhesis seems to think, the third party will show themselves with guns blazing and nuclear warfare…’
‘Like they won’t!’
‘Like they will.’
‘LIKE THEY WON’T.’
‘Um… then could you tell me what you’re doing? And explain to me what Renn was saying?’
‘Eh?’
‘Renn Kuran. Didn’t you see her threatening us?’
‘Darling, the choc- er, guard duty has been keeping me busy. I’m looking for suspicious persons, anything that seems off, and Lakhesis is hunting for barbarian skirmishers.’
‘Oh, is that how it’ll be, then?’ hissed Lakhesis. ‘I hope you choke.’
‘Ah, see, that’s not… what have I been thinking? They might have poisoned the food! Dear Lord, it might be killing me this very instant! Don’t eat anything, Euryale!’
‘Oh, how the mighty have crumbled.’
‘Neither of you were paying any attention at all?’ I mentally groaned.
‘Sorry, love. Go ask Aisa. If she isn’t performing ritual killings she would have paid attention. She is so very fond of playing with people.’
‘About as fond as a total fatass is of chocolate…’

I broke the connection so that I wouldn’t be pulled into taking sides in yet another mental battle, and looked for the black glow of tainted magic that was Aisa. The only other two people in the room with more darkness were the two Shades Xanathiel and Schrren, obviously, so she was easy to find. With a simple touch, she opened herself up.

’You wanted something?’
‘Yes, I wanted to know… is Renn actually going to kill us if we’re incompetent?’
‘Why don’t you ask her? Can a mortal be so terrifying?’
‘I really think the whole humans-are-pathetic-at-everything thing is debatable.’
‘What a weak way of looking at it. Mm… she’s difficult to read, I’ll give her that. But she definitely wasn’t actually angry.’
‘Really?’
‘Little one, you’re an ambassador. You should know by now that politicians play their little games. She insulted them to gauge their reactions to blackmail and authority.’
‘Oh… and what did she glean?’
‘Euryale, I’m sitting twenty feet away from you and I could see. Schrren will be the easiest to manipulate. Pride and anger are the greatest flaws in any battle. Mistra is second with her temper, although she can swallow her pride when necessary. Kanzaki, Nayeli and the hideous spawn of Morzan are clearly far more interested in themselves than the entire operation, so clearly very self-indulgent, all of them. I haven’t gotten into Osiris’s mind, of course, and I doubt Kuran has either, but I’ve seen him in Urû’baen before. Very angry, very unstable. The half-elf Maethor is the hardest to read. He’s young, but intelligent. Stay wary of him. And Xanathiel doesn’t appear to be harbouring any ulterior motives tonight. He resents being here, and wants this over with. And Kuran herself… intelligent, ruthless, and out for herself, but not entirely evil. She was genuinely disgusted with Schrren when she was cutting him up for his crimes.’
‘How the heck did you get all that?’
‘Body language means everything, child. Enough now. Kuran’s speaking.’

“I agree, Xanathiel,” said Renn just as Aisa cut off the connection with me. “A fine idea. In fact, all eight of you shall being placed into pairs. Osiris, obviously, will not be participating, and I have my own tasks to carry out alone. I haven’t introduced everyone yet, have I?” She drew herself up before speaking. “At present, we are ten men strong. I am your leader, Renn Kuran, consul to King Galbatorix and daughter of General Kaname Kichirou of the Imperial Army. That…” I winced, knowing exactly who that was, “is Euryale Gorgophone, recently appointed elven ambassador and daughter of Councillor Cælestis Gorgophone. She shall be the lure. Gorgophone, I suggest you unbind your ears. Not only will it be marginally less painful, but an elf will doubtlessly draw attention.” I felt a strange mixture of relief and terror. The bindings were murderous, but I wasn’t sure how much I liked the idea of being gawked at by drunkards. “Our two Riders apresent are Murtagh Morzansson and Lady Nayeli, daughter of Sir Bryce of the Imperial Army. Should a battle break out, they will be heavily relied upon. Until then, both of you will be our infiltration experts. Use your mental powers to locate anything hidden- rooms, compartments, and such. Osiris, Nayeli’s dragon, is our shock troop of sorts- we will only have him here if is absolutely necessary, and he will serve as transportation should things go badly.” I didn’t think dragons could be used as simple transport systems, but Renn seemed to have something against magic and Riders in general. At any rate, I wasn’t about to contradict her. “This is Ellemere Mistra, elven civilian, who has lived in Du Weldenvarden until very recently. She will be serving as our tracker of anyone suspicious. And…” she gazed at the Shades, who I suddenly noticed had a remarkable amount of distance between them. “We have been given two Shades, Schrren of the Empire and Xanathiel of the Varden. Schrren will be our interrogator, and will hunt down any magic users within the building. Xanathiel can put that efficiency to work as our counterintelligence agent. Any dangerous threats to our team or operations are to be dealt with swiftly and silently.” Looking slightly exhausted from her third and longest monologue that night, Renn turned to the final two members she hadn’t addressed. “Duren Maethor, unallied slaver and native of Dras-Leona, and Kyou Kanzaki, Nihonese-Imperial assassin. Maethor will also be serving as a counterintelligence expert, but not destroying our enemies. Instead, you will incapacitate them with words and subtlety. Kanzaki-san, your job is to gather information and not be caught. Flattery, poison that loosens the tongue, seduction- anything, but do not resort to fear and violence. Now, the pairing-”

“Excuse me? You wouldn’t be called Xan here, would you?” I watched Kyou sidle up to the Varden Shade, her expression coy and her voice seductive. “You wouldn’t mind being my partner, would you? Oh, you don’t mind? That’s just wonderful. Would you care for a drink?”
Whatever anyone could have possibly said next was interrupted by the half-elf as he suddenly approached me, bowing deeply before rising to meet my gaze directly. I was completely confused as to how he had picked me out. Didn’t the blind have advanced hearing and whatnot? Maybe he could feel my magical aura. Maybe he could hear my heart threatening to beat its way out of my chest, or my breathing. I was breathing loudly? Automatically, I tried to do so more shallowly, but that just deprived me of even more air and I ended up wheezing like a dying crone.
“Duren Maethor milady, I do not believe we have been introduced, but perhaps you would do the honour of accompanying me to the dance floor?”
“You- you…” Out loud, I fell silent. Mentally, I went insane.
‘HELP! There’s a m- there’s a man, the-the-the half-elf, he wants to dance with me, WHAT DO I DO?’
‘What? And exactly how do you plan on dancing with a blind guy?’
Klotho naturally supported the opposite of Lakhesis’s statement. ‘Accept the invitation, darling! Just don’t let him feed you. He isn’t at all hard on the eyes, though his hair could use a wash…’
“Clearly, people are going and picking for themselves,” said Renn, and it sounded like she didn’t know whether to be irritated or amused. “Kanzaki and Xanathiel shall be together, then, as shall Maethor and Gorgophone. As for you four…” she rounded on them, eyeing them for a moment. “Nayeli and Mistra will be together, and so will Morzansson and Schrren. Now, the purpose of the partners. You do not have to be together all night, but is recommended you stay within eyesight or at least periodic mental contact. Is also your duty to protect this person, but keep in mind that sometimes the few must be sacrificed to save the many.” I died inside again. “You may contact myself through mental contact if is necessary, but attempt anything else and the consequences will be severe. Everything clear? Good. Off with you all. The people are starting to stare, and we have wasted enough time as is already.”

As the gathered operators began to disperse, finally free of Renn’s claws, I relaxed slightly, only to realize that I hadn’t provided Duren with an answer. I immediately leapt out of my seat, nearly smacking into him, but he seemed to have some clairvoyance of my movements because he easily stepped away from me. I coughed to clear my throat and maniacally wiped off my dress, despite the fact that he couldn’t see it. But when I looked up again, his sightless eyes met my own perfectly. It was disturbing- he was blind, and yet he moved better than nearly everyone here, let alone meeting my gaze without really knowing where it was. I wondered just how much he knew. However, besides the eyes, there was nothing frightening about him- tall and good-looking, with that rare balance between muscle and agility, and he was a half-elf. Most of my kind hated them for the poisoning of the blood, but the scholar in me pondered what kind of person the clash of human and elven natures could create. Suddenly more interested than frightened, I bowed to him in return before gently taking his hand.

“I’d love to... er, Mister Maethor, shall I call you? I’m Euryale. Gorgophone, that is.” I mentally slapped myself for the brief bout of déjà vu. “Please lead on.”

Words;; 3433. Ow.
Muse;; Strained.
Thoughts;; I really, really, REALLY hate monologues.