Ruby's hand slowly slid over the sweet and smooth porcelain face with the bright blue eyes and the blue diamond upon both pale cheeks. She slowly wrapped her delicate hands that were bound in loose white gloves with two hearts on the top, a black and a red, around the small doll and picked it up from the black chair that was next to other black chairs circled around a table set with tea cups and tea pots and biscuits and cakes and more delightful treats. She saw a few of her maids gathering the rest of the small dolls from the chairs and Ruby's face turned brighter, a grin forming on her lips that were coated in a light red lipstick that would gleam if any rays of sunshine could fit through the thick branches of the black wood forest.

She would then turn her head as she heard wheels cracking and moving over dead leaves and twigs, seeing a large black coach pulling up in the small clearing near the table. She saw the driver, small and chubby, with his hands on the reins as he looked to her and then kept his head down. "Mary... take these back to my doll room, would you." she said. Ruby's voice was soft and resembled velvet; a smooth and seductive tone but also sly. It was sweet and clear like the running water of a small mountain stream wavering over smooth gray and blue stones. Her hand was outstretched with the doll in it, the blonde hair hanging and blowing softly in a cool breeze that swept through the forest. One of the maids made her way over and took the doll, bowing her head.

"And where will you be going for the night, my lady?" the maid asked softly. Ruby turned towards her, smiling softly.

"The Prince of Spades has invited me to attend a party of sorts... I thought I'd come along; see what he really wants. It's not often he invites another royal to his glorious kingdom." she said and then she slowly patted her own hair down and took off a glove, running her longish clear nails through the thick red curls that were in a beautiful style so her curls could hang down but some was held up by a clip on her head. She was also wearing her gold crown with the hearts around it that rested firmly on her head and gleamed even if no sunlight could peek through the trees. Ruby watched as the maid bowed her head and left quickly back on the path towards the kingdom, the other maid following and carrying a basket.

Ruby sighed softly. She would then climb into the carriage and shut the door, placing herself on the black velvet seat and gazing out the window as the carriage lurched forward. She then picked up a small mirror from the other seat, gazing at herself. She was wearing a dark gray eyeshadow and a light line of eyeliner and thick mascara. On the top of her eyelid was a gold colored eyeshadow and both her cheeks had bright red hearts on them with black outlining the edges and a black lighting shapes line through them to resemble a broken heart. She set the mirror down, and then she rested her head back on the seat, closing her eyes as she waited for the journey to be over.

~~~~~~~~

When the carriage stopped moving, Ruby opened her eyes as she saw the path to the large kingdom of the Prince of Spades. Her heart pounded slightly and she slowly slid out as the driver opened the door for her and she picked up the skirts of her dress. She loved her dress. It was a long flowing dress; with a bright red color but a see through black material that made the red look like a crimson color. The top was low cut with lace coming around the ends, and the sleeves were slightly puffed and ended just a bit before her elbows. The top part of the dress was like a corset and fit to her hour glass curves perfectly; while the ends just flowed out instead of being extremely puffy like the ones her mother used to wear. There were hearts scattered randomly upon the material which made it more cute in Ruby's opinion.

She would then watch the driver pull out a black case and she smiled, slowly reaching to it and opening it. There was her long golden staff with the large heart on top protected by the four curves of gold coming over the top. The heart was made of pure ruby, and glimmered as sun peeked from the clouds. She knew sunset was nearly here and night would soon be upon the world of Wonderland. Ruby would quickly glance around for her advisor; wondering if he had gotten lost and she sighed as she waved the driver away.

Her black heels clicked softly on the ground as she walked past the guards along the path and walked up to the doors. She noticed dark bushes in different shapes; green and a gray color it seemed. She took a deep breath and removed her right glove, knocking on the door firmly with her creamy pale knuckles and then she looked down, waiting for someone to answer as she put her glove back on.

Perseus let out a small sigh as he walked down the cold foggy path towards the Spades castle.He held a small black book tightly in his pale hand and continued moving along the path."Tsk Tsk this is all such a waste of a cold afternoon. I could be sleeping right now or even eating a bit of soup and crumpets."He said in his bitter yet charming voice."Albert, did you bring my pillow like I asked you?"He said turning his head slightly to the left, looking directly at an older looking gentlemen who many would assume was his butler but was actually his uncle."Hmm?Oh yes yes I have it right here sire..."Albert said nodding his head in an almost frightened manner, lifting up the pillow he held in his right hand to show the Prince."Jolly good dear fellow, I can more then likely sleep a bit if I go sit by the women, they barely notice if your awake or not while they talk your ear off.."He said chuckling slightly as he continued to make his way down the chilly path.

As both the Prince and his group of followers made their way closer towards the Castle he began to notice the distinct change in the air."It feels like something big is going to happen, doesn't it Albert?"He said not looking at his uncle but merely glancing down at the ground."Yes Sire, the air certainly does have somewhat of an ominous feel to it." The Prince would nod and clutch his book even tighter."I do wish we had stayed home..."He said as his party arrived at the front gates of the Spade Castle."Well then, on to our doom good chaps!"He said giving his companions a fake smile and pushing his way inside.

~~~~~

The Caterpillar eyes wandered over to the carriage that the Lady of Hearts was in and they softened slightly. He saw one of the servants staring at him and immediately snapped out of the lovey dovey stupor he was in."How foolish of me...to even think of the ....oh never mind."He muttered angrily to himself and began stomping after the carriage to follow the Princess towards the party.He wasn't one to travel in the carriage as it was considered rude of a bodyguard to do so,therefore he usually ran after Ruby (something that he griped about whenever he was alone with her.)"I should have been a Butterfly, this would have been much easier."He said as he ran after the carriage, his dark blue hair flying around wildly from the cold wind stirring around Wonderland."Damn these TROUSERS!"He said angrily, as he struggled to follow the carriage which thankfully within minutes arrived at the castle. He watched as Ruby tapped softly at the door and he waited, catching his breath, for admittance into the castle with the Princess.

Two attendants raced around Marcus, one buttoning his shirt as the other finished the final stitching of spades on his pant's hem. He stood, a light smile on his face, arms outstretched, in his dressing room. Light glimmered against the golden walls, the tri-mirrors allowing the Prince to watch the process, okaying every bit. A select group of servants had been tailoring this new party attire for quite some time. The usually black suit was replaced by stunning white, the silver threat barely visible until the light caught it. One of the girl's began to tie the black tie around his throat, Marcus smiling down at her as she did, giving soft nod. "Better hope not to strangle me, you pitiful woman. That will do no good..." The maid gave a nervous smile to the lord before quickly looking away.

His smile widened at that.

The other quickly took her place, placing the white jacket over him and fixing the double row of silver buttons shut. All of his maids were to act as such. They had to both look and be the part of a servant of the Spades Manor. His expectations were high, and they all knew what would happen if they failed him. They had been to his garden.

After brushing his hair, placing every strand in the correct place, the two girls stepped away and looked down, Marcus smiled to himself in the mirror, eyeing himself, up and down, his eyes lingering on the white Spade on the top of his tie. ((OOC: I wasn't sure how to write that. It mean the part of the tie that is the actual knot.)) "Thank you." The prince muttered, looking over his shoulder with a smile before looking back to the mirror. Finally, as he stepped down from the dressing stand, the taller of the two maids held out an open box, a pair of snow white gloves laid perfectly among the fluffed paper. Marcus took them, pulling them into place on his hands with admiring the two spades at their openings.

"Tell the seamstresses they did a fair job, but I expect more next time." The smile still rested on his mouth, but his eyes cut to the two girls, their bodies visibly tensing under his glare. "The left glove's spade has a thread out of place. I want it fixed." The two nodded, muttering a quiet apology as their prince strode out of the room and towards the first floor.

------------------

Marcus' nobility soon arrived, the orchestra playing their instruments, the guards standing, rigid, around the edge of room, four posted at each entrance. Each was dressed in shining silver armor, his servants scurrying about the room with platters of dishes and drinks, the men and women chatting aimlessly, many coming to speak with the Prince. None asked of the former king and queen.

At the tap on the door, two guards stepped forward to pull the large oak doors open, revealing the shining entrance hall, men and women in black and silver dancing in the ball room at the end. The four guards all gave a bow as they recognized the face. The servants looked towards her, several of the women muttering among themselves before receiving a glare from a guard. They were third highest in power here in the manor. Of course, the prince's advisor was second in command. Servants were the lowest of the low here. "Princess." The guards muttered as they straightened, motioning her towards the back of the room as two women came to her sides.

"Princess, do you have a coat?" "Madame, may we take your purse?" "What would you like to drink?" The questions sounded, each girl bowing before holding out their hands. Marcus hadn't noticed she had arrived, smiling and chatting with a pair of his guests.

Doorodella walked throughout the hall, making sure every detail of the party was perfect. A waiter walked in front of her, averting his eyes as he passed. She looked him up and down scrutinizing every inch of him with her onyx eyes, he took a step past her and let out a sigh of relief. “Wait” came a calm emotionless voice behind him. Stopping in his tracks the young man looked back at her with scared intimidated eyes, as she stepped forward taking a napkin from his trey. “you have something on your sleeve” she said as she wiped a speck of white stuff off the arm of his black jacket. The waiter began to shake as she looked him in the eye “no more mistakes, don’t make me tell the Prince.” The prince’s adviser spoke simply before walking off leaving the man to rush back to the servants’ quarters, undoubtedly to change his trousers.

Stopping in front of a long mirror Della studied herself, her silver hair was perfect in its round buns with a bow in the middle, and she wore simple black and grey makeup around her eyes her lips painted in a light grey. Looking down she smoothed the tutu like skirt of her white dress admiring the black lace details on it, and adjusted the corset like top. Light scars adorned her chest and shoulders but she did not care to hide them, she would rather display them proudly like badges her master had given her. Satisfied she looked presentable she turned her seemingly emotionless face towards Prince Marcus and began making her way towards him as she noticed the commotion at the front doors.

Upon reaching him she bowed her head politely, excusing herself to the guests her master was conversing with before speaking “Master, I feel I should inform you that one of our guests of honor has arrived.” She said in her simple monotone voice a she motioning towards ruby with a black gloved hand.

Ruby glanced at the maids offering there hands out to her. She tilted her head and then she noticed her advisor had arrived, breathing heavily behind her. As they walked in together, she glanced at her pocket watch she kept in the right pocket of her new dress. "You're late. You could have just rode in the carriage." she said, in a firm voice but then she turned her attention back to the maids.

"No, No, and no. But thank you." she said, smiling slightly and then she walked past all the guests, glancing about carefully before stopping and grabbing her advisor's collar and jerking his ear to her lips. "Keep your eyes open." she said to him quietly and then let go, adjusting her gloves again. She then stopped in front of a mirror lined on the wall, looking at her curls and she ran her gloved hand over her bangs, flipping some from her emerald eyes before tracing a finger on one of the hearts. "Mmm... it's always hearts." she said with almost a distasteful tone.

Ruby wasn't always comfortable at social events where she wasn't with her own kind; her own subjects. Being among the Spade Subjects, among all these people she didn't know... trust was difficult for Ruby and since she hadn't grown up with people and hadn't talked or made conversation a child or a teenager, adjusting in crowds was so difficult.

She sighed and adjusted her crown, sensitive about how she looked. She didn't want to look entirely silly in front of these people. Ruby then looked at her red lip and tilted her head. "Always red too." she looked down at her dress and then she walked away from the mirror, glancing around again at the subjects and moving slowly around.

And odd feeling was curling in her stomach. And it wouldn't go away.

The Caterpillar gave a nod towards Ruby and then raised an eyebrow as he was jerked forward"Keep your eyes open.."She said before she began adjusting her gloves.He gave another nod and then whispered lightly and quickly as he moved to brush against her."My eyes are always on you Madam...though I do have to blink of course."He added as an afterthought and chuckled slightly, his breathing still not quite normal. He slowed his pace so that he would always be several lengths behind her, and bowed his head each time a member of the Spade court motioned towards him.He noticed several of the Maids were eying him and batting their eyelashes, causing him to let out a sigh and try his best to focus on the Princess.He noticed Ruby looking slightly....out of place with her red clothing and other assortment of red accessories.He smiled slightly and moved to whisper to her again."Red suits you better then anyone else my Lady.."

~~~~~~~

The Prince let out rather pitiful yawn and frowned as he saw the door open for him.Several of the Prince of Spades attendants ushered him inside and rapidly began offering him drinks and different snacks."I am quite bloody fine thank you, now if you offered me a room to rest in I dare say I wouldn't refuse."He said giving one of his famous fake grins towards one of the maids .She mumbled something about this being a party and not a sleepover being running off towards the kitchen.Percy merely shrugged and went off to find a couch to sit on.He scanned eagerly until spotting the perfect one.A black velvet couch with white cushions, the Spade symbol printed boldly on each one."Bloody hell, must everyone flaunt their Crest?"Percy murmured to Albert.

Fluffy ears stood stock straight as the White Rabbit tumbled through the undergrowth, leaping over fallen trees and stumps that posed as obstacles. Of course, he was late again. The wary thought tugged at him as he traipsed through the woods, heaving short breaths to keep himself moving and as per usual, he muttered the entire way. “H-How could I be late... a-again!” The meagre page cursed, holding his giant golden pocket watch tucked into his arm as he ran. It always posed as some kind of inconvenience but he wouldn't be seen without it—time was his lifeline, even if he had no grasp of it. Perpetually late, Nivens—which was the White Rabbits' real name, few knew it—he always tried his best to arrive on time. At least he was dressed appropriately, wearing his usual checkered garbs that seemed to fit the young man so well, and the Princess would be content with that. Harshly biting the sides of his cheeks, he couldn't help but glower down at the front of his vest, smoothing it over as if somehow by thinking of it he'd mussed it up. And her. Already, Niven's could feel his stomach tumble into familiar butterflies and he didn't know if he could face her. Because he was late.

Vaulting himself from a particularly large, fallen tree, Nivens landed nimbly on his feet and stumbled back into his horrific run. Honestly, he couldn't tell how well stopping would go. He couldn't stop though, no, not until he arrived at the Spades residents. Fortunately for him, rabbits had excellent endurance and had an affinity for not sweating—so, one less thing to worry about. Branches snatched stubbornly on his brilliantly crimson vest, threatening to pull threads out until he shouted his protest and careened away from them. “B-By the Hearts, its' as if the world is against me.” Nivens whispered, a near whimper that caught in his tight throat before he adjusted his spectacles from the bottom of his button-nose. Sooner rather than later, Nivens crashed through another clearing of the forest and smiled weakly up at the Spades' residence. “I've arrived.” Disbelief coloured his tone, and he took a few moments to catch his heaving breath. It would do him no good to waltz into the large building looking like he'd run a marathon, even though he most likely did. Quickly fixing stray strands of silver light hair from his smoky eyes, the White Rabbit began his torturous trek towards the vast yard. Ignoring the indecent cooing at his arrival—most likely, because they fought the urge to pinch his cheeks—Nivens sighed warily before catching sight of the Caterpillar walking with Ruby Hearts. Again, his stomach flipped, his puffy tail twitching nervously and it was all he could do but stride to her elbow, quietly clearing his throat.

“F-Forgive my absence, My Lady.”

Ruby had turned towards her advisor with an amused look on her face. "It does? I always thought maybe another color such as... lime green or maybe a dark purple would be suitable... and new. My mother was always obsessed with the color red. I wonder why I am as well. But thank you for the compliment, love. Feel free to enjoy yourself while your here as well." she said, smiling at him and then she began to walk slowly down the hall again.

When she heard feet coming up to her side, she looked down and saw Nivens beside her. When she heard him speak, she chuckled lightly. "You are forgiven; you aren't the only one who was late, dear." She said with a smile but then fixed her crown as she became slightly self conscious again. She then looked down at his watch and sighed, shaking her head. "Ah, my dear Nivens, why do you carry that huge thing around? You can't carry something smaller? It must be heavy." she said and chuckled a little more. Ruby wasn't as mean as her mother was. She could be quite strict but she was too self conscious to be strict in a new place, a different kingdom from her own. She didn't see much red at the party; and she sighed as she played with a thick curly lock of hair resting on her shoulder. Was she standing out? With all the bright red she must be.

Ruby glanced about again, her ears catching scrambled and cut off words from conversations. She hadn't seen any of the other royals yet. Not the Prince of Clubs, not the Princess of Diamonds... and the host, The Prince of Spades. She wondered if they were all late as well. She then coughed and smiled to herself. Everyone seemed late today. She eyed a platter of cupcakes and her stomach growled softly under her dress and she blushed as her cheeks became red underneath the broken hearts painted on each cheek and she cast her eyes down, hoping not to be seen with such a red tint to her cheeks.

Maximus Mock glanced down at his watch feeling as tired as ever."A ....party...today?"He said to himself in his quiet drawl.The large grandfather clock inside of the Club Castle went off with a loud*DONG* causing the poor Mock Turtle to leap up and head for the door."I'm...acting...like...that ....rabbit. He's always ...late..."He said in his usual slow manner even as he started to run towards the Prince of Spades Castle where he knew his master would be.

The Mock Turtle was very fond of the Prince of Clubs, finding his lazy demeanor refreshing from the more upbeat people of Wonderland. He also found the Prince's ability to turn people into pillows very amusing, as it was the least scary of all the Prince and Princesses powers."I could go..for...a nap...right now..come..to think of..it.."He said slowly, muttering under his breath as he kept a steady pace running towards the castle.

Surprisingly it didn't take long for Maximus to arrive at the castle as he was faster than your average turtle. He moved through the Spades courtyard and found himself finally at the main door. He let out a long tired yawn before pushing the doors open and striding lazily into the castle.He took note that the Princess of Hearts was already here and that his master was sitting on the couch, probably ready for a nap as well. Mock froze for a moment as soon as his eyes set on The Caterpillar. His worst enemy, and his rival for the smartest creature in Wonderland. He plastered a smile on his face and walked slowly over towards the blue man, bowing his head at the Princess of Hearts in respect. "Greetings Caterpillar, and Princess."

Mock often wondered why the Caterpillar was with the Princess. He had nothing to gain from it, and he would probably have better opportunities with either Spades or Clubs then he would have with the Hearts. Though his master was just as tired and lazy as he was, there was no denying he was powerful.....the other Decks didn't realize it yet.

"Slow and steady wins the race..." Thought the Turtle as he waited for both the Princess and Caterpillar to respond.

The Caterpillar was about to reach for one of the many snacks the Spade Maids were bringing around when he was interrupted by the familiar slow voice of the Mock Turtle."Bloody wonderful...my favorite creature that take half and hour to say a sentence."Thought the Caterpillar as a grin began to creep up his face."Hello there Maximus! How do you fare today?"He said trying his best to make simple conversation but truly not wishing to stay for an hour merely waiting for the man to speak.
He turned towards Ruby while he waited for the Turtle to answer."It's time like these I wish I could have been a butterfly and floated far away madam."He said giving her a small wink as he whispered towards her.

He knew the Mock Turtle would hear him and possibly grow irritated. "Good" He thought."That damn Turtle follows me around all the time, glaring at me as if I've caused him some sort of harm. The Caterpillar glanced around, finally noticing that the snack he had been about to eat was now in some Spades servants mouth.
The day couldn't get any worse....
~~~~~~~~

Percy struggled to stay awake, knowing that if he did not he would more then likely be scolded by someone."So bloody annoying...I just want to sleep!"He said punching a pillow near him in an almost childlike manner.As he continued punching he heard a few familiar voices and looked up. The Mock Turtle , The Caterpillar, and The Princess of Hearts were all together and seemed to be chatting about something."I probably won't fall asleep if someones talking my ear off."He said softly as he went to get up and adjust his tie and coat.

He was a bit upset that he still hadn't been served any tea but he shrugged it off thinking to himself."I'm not a hundred percent I would be able to stay awake with a bit of soothing Earl Grey tea in my belly."The thought made him smile sleepily and then shake his head as he noticed he was already at where both his adviser and the Princesses were."Salutation good Caterpillar and lovely Princess" He said bowing his head slightly and doing the best to not close his eyes.He turned towards his adviser."I would advise you next time to perhaps set your clock a bit earlier. Anymore of these rabbit tactics and I might give your job over to the Hatter..."He said teasingly to Mock."Or perhaps the Princess would allow The Caterpillar to take your job as well. Percy grinned knowing that this little jab would cause the poor Turtle to more then likely never be late again.

The Mock Turtle scowled slightly as the Caterpillar greeted him and then turned to speak to the Princess."If...you...did...turn...into...a butterfly....one ...could...only...hope...a bird....would swoop down....and....eat...you.."He said grinning slightly and chuckling towards the Caterpillar.He was about to speak again when the Prince strode up towards them and spoke." The Prince said something to the Caterpillar and the Princess that Mock didn't hear but what he did hear was the Princes teasing.

Or perhaps the Princess would allow the Caterpillar to take your job."

The poor Mock Turtle eyes widened at the comment and he was silenced, quietly scolding himself for being late and knowing that if would never happen again.

"I would rather die then to let that blue insect take my job..."Thought the Turtle as he grumbled quietly to himself and crossed his arms. He uncrossed them for a moment only to reach into his pocket and hand a letter to the Prince."Sire this arrived for you earlier.....this.....morning."He said slowly but trying to pick up the pace as to not have any reason for the Caterpillar to heckle him further."I believe sir that it's from a certain individual whose...name I can't say at the moment due to...present....company."

He figured that the Caterpillar might be a tad bit jealous from all the secretive things, knowing quite well that the Caterpillar was as nosy as the Sqwaker Bee.

"Oh?" Marcus glanced to the side, watching as the Princess of Hearts made her way across the room. His smile widened as it turned back to the noble couple. "Excuse me, but I must speak with another of more importance then yourselves. Pardon." With a small nod, Marcus turned back to Doorodella silently thanking her as he made his way towards the woman in red.

"You know, if really is such a good thing to have you tell me such things. Don't stop doing so until I tell you, Doorodella." He sent another perfect smile to the girl over his shoulder before continuing his way across the dance floor. "You know what would happen if you defied me." His voice was almost sing-song as he spoke then, making a beeline towards the princess. But, to his surprise, another approached her. The turtle...? Ah, yes, it was the turtle advisor. Soon enough, the Prince of Clubs also arrived near the princess. Perfect. Marcus thought, mind turning for a plan B as his smile stayed in place.

"Princess, Prince!" Marcus grinned to the two as he approached, bowing lightly. "I am so very thrilled you two were able to make it!" He had to be nice. He had to be nice. "Would you care for anything? Anything to drink? Eat? I can tell the chef to make something to your tastes, if you prefer." God, this could kill him. He looked as though he was entirely happy these people had arrived, but, boy, how they stuck out like sore thumbs in his kingdom... He tried to ignore the still creatures in his mind around them, merely looking to the royalty of the other lands. "Did you happen to spot the Princess of Daimonds? I do hope she will be able to arrive as well. Royalty of Wonderland must speak every now and then."

((OOC: I wrote this to ballroom music.))

Anisia tapped her fingernails in an impatient way. She was very upset they she had just received notice of the prince spades party. She had her legs crossed and hummed quietly to herself trying to avoid her mothers and farthers talk. "Don't be rude. Bite your tongue before you say anything, and for heavens sake do not use your powers." Her parents said. She gritted her teeth and began to play with her hair. She had it falling down over her shoulders. Glitter was thrown in her hair so it glittered in the light. She had on diamond earrings. Her make was very simple. It was just a base with lipgloss and silver eyeshadow.

"Also how could you wear that outfit out in public?" Her parents continued to talk. She looked down at her outfit. It was a silver color very short and very tight. Showing all her curves. It was low cut and a diamond was cut around her belly button. Showing off her belly button ring. Her fingers and toes where painted clear and she was wearing heels.

"Your right mom. I should have worn purple." Her mother gave her a glare but when the carriage stopped she quickly jumped out. Without saying a word to her parents she closed the door and started to walk up to the castle.

Nivens was content that he'd caught his breath and walked steadily at Ruby Hearts' side, without missing a step and hopefully in as much grace as the Princess. However, he still felt like his heart was thumping out of his chest, beating at unreasonable speeds that still restricted his breathing to short, quiet gasps. Adjusting the colourful bow tied around his neck, Nivens smiled sheepishly at Ruby's comment and lowered his head to hide the crimson flushing across his golden complected cheeks. Said golden pocket watch was still tucked in the crook of his arms, hugged tightly to his body to keep it from falling from his grasp—she was right though, he had no clue why he carried the large object around. He couldn't even recall where he'd gotten it from: perhaps the Queen of Hearts had bestowed it to him, just to entertain herself as he scrambled around with it. It is quite heavy. He thought warily, hefting it up to gain a better hold on it. “I haven't seen any of the others, now that you mention it,” Nivens replied, twitching his nose this way and that before peering around his surroundings. None in sight.

The White Rabbit was only too grateful that the Princess wasn't a mirror of her mother—whose anger was unpredictable and deadly. Off with your head! Those words caused horrifying nightmares that nearly tormented him everyday, and he always remembered himself stumbling away from her sight as to not be nominated for the mornings' beheading. It had been her favourite time. As much as the Princess would have not liked anyone hearing her rumbling stomach, his long white ears twitched with the sound and he couldn't help but blush along with her. Sparing her feelings, he didn't look at her and pretended as if he hadn't heard. Nivens only glanced up when he heard a familiar voice, belonging to the Mock Turtle who strode over to them—greeting the Caterpillar and Princess, and properly ignoring him. He huffed his indignation quietly. "How rude." It wasn't unusual for those around them to ignore the White rabbit—even though he was so obviously hard to miss, being nearly albino. The Prince of Clubs made his way towards the group and he seemingly shrunk behind Ruby, clutching onto the only thing that made him comfortable in such large groups of royalty: his golden pocket watch.

Ruby had sighed when she saw the Turtle come up and followed by his Prince. She listened to the slight arguing and bickering as she felt the tension overwhelming her. She turned towards the turtle and then to the prince, smiling fakely at them while she put her hand on her advisor's shoulder, her nails tracing lightly over his shirt. "I could never give up such a wonderful advisor as this wonderful blue creature. But I think the turtle suits you, your highness." she said to the Prince of Clubs, and then rested her head on her Advisor's shoulder as she smiled sweetly at them both. After she kissed her advisor's cheeks, leaving a small red kiss mark, she would stand straight again. She then would glance down at the rabbit by her side and smiled at him.

"Ah, Nivens, feel free to enjoy yourself as well, love. I wouldn't want you to be starved or tired from your long hop over here." When she heard footsteps, she saw the Prince of Spades approach them and she tilted her head slightly. "I'm fine, thank you. I had tea and biscuits before I attended; since I didn't want to deprive your other gracious guests the wonderful food you offer to them." she said, smirking slightly before she touched her left cheek and she adjusted her glove. She then would glance around her. She was quite tense; and then she would cough slightly and she looked back at the Prince of the Clubs and his slow adviser, smiling a bit before gazing down at her feet and eyeing the rabbit at her side.

The Caterpillar chuckled slightly as Ruby made quite the spectacle of the two of them. He gave a small nod towards the White Rabbit as he noticed him at last scurry towards The Princesses side."Aye, I wouldn't so quickly leave my Lady's place either....and as for you Mock I would watch yourself least you find a hammer on your shell hm?"He gave a small wink towards the Turtle and a bow towards the Prince before going to look for more snacks, thought keeping the Princess in site.He smiled towards the Rabbit and then took a small cup of wine from one of the Spade Maids and handed it to him."Come now good fellow and have a bit of drink! With all your running about you are more then likely quite parched." The Caterpillar knew that the Rabbit was fond of Ruby as well as he was, but he also knew he was just as protective and caring and this is what made them comrades.

He glanced around shortly while waiting for the White Rabbit to take the drink or decline it, wondering how long exactly they were supposed to stay for this party. He then noticed the Prince of Spades move close to them and greet both the Princess and the Prince of Clubs.

~~~~~~~~~

The Prince chuckled slightly as he watched the Princess kiss her advisers cheeks, leaving a small amount of lipstick on them."I dare say if I did that to you Turtle you might actually have a heart attack !" He said now laughing slightly with an amused expression on his usual tired face. In truth the Prince was handsome, though you would never catch him saying that. He was above such things as looks and such, or maybe he just preferred sleeping. He watched at both the Caterpillar and the Princess moved away and he felt the familiar sensation of sleepiness begin to pass over him."Quick..someone talk about something meaningless or I fear I may fall asleep!" He said turning towards one of the Spades nobles.They looked back with a confused expression which only caused the Prince to laugh a bit more."I dare say this party may actually be enjoyable..."The Prince turned his head as he heard a familiar voice speak both to him and Ruby."Hello Spades...." Percy said giving him a grin that wasn't his usual.

The Mock Turtle made something of a grumbling sound as he saw the Prince ignore the letter. He rolled his eyes and ended up just shoving into his pocket for him to read as soon as he noticed it. "Sir...if...you...kissed...my cheeks....I ...would....dare...say....we....would....have a...problem."He said giving an almost deathly glare towards his Prince.He knew Clubs was always teasing him when he wasn't sleeping but sometimes the man could make anyone lose their SHELL!

He glanced towards the Caterpillar and let out a sigh before turning towards the Princess and doing his best to speak faster."Madam.. what is it...you...see in that blue insect? If you say...kindness I may actually faint..."He said now baring a full grin which showed his large white teeth. He then turned towards the Prince of Spades who had just barely come to greet him and bowed his head."Hello there sir....."He said in his slow usual manner showing no particular liking towards the man. He was too perky for his taste and truly it wasn't anything short of unnatural .

He then carefully moved to stand by the Prince of Clubs side in an almost defensive manner.

With a cat-like walk Cheshire followed Anisia as a simple shadow, making all but his eyes and grin invsible to all who cared to look. He found it slightly alarming, that the Prince of Spades, a man who hated cats would allow him inside, but he never strayed to far from Anisia's side. He had simply been walking, or floating to the castle instead of riding in one of those carriages, he preferred it much better, since he got to stretch his legs while walking, instead of being cramped inside of a carriage. He turned towards Anisia, his grin and eyes only visible still.

"Quit odd that the Prince of Spades would invite other royalties to a party, I think it best we keep on our guard, dont you think Madame?"

As always, Cheshire kept his true irrational thoughts locked away, so that he wouldnt start bursting out in riddles and ryhms, yes Cheshire was quit mad, but nobody had seen that side of him for a long time, perhaps, if anybody were to gt in a fight tonight, then that madness would leak through. But he would stay on his guard, keeping as sane as possible while watching over Anisia and the festivies. For a moment he looked up at the Spade castle, before turning completly visible, wearing a simple pair of black suit pants, red shirt, his Diamond jacket over the red shirt, and his black hat with kept his normally messy and unmanigable black hair in order.

Della nodded as the prince told her not to stop telling him things until he told her too, “Of course I know master” she said quietly a small shiver going up her spine and an almost invisible smile came to her lips.

She stayed a few paces behind him as he spoke to the Prince and Princess. She could tell it was difficult for him to be so kind and she wondered how long he could keep it up. Soon enough her attention was distracted from the conversation, she would stay close to Marcus in case he needed anything but couldn’t help but investigate the thing that had intrigued her.

A few moments passed and Doorodella almost magically appeared behind the white rabbit, it was if she had vanished behind the prince of spades and appeared behind him. She was kneeling down so she was about his height, her head tilted quizzically, her face blank. “Cute” she muttered simply as she reached out a gloved hand to touch his ear.

"Oh, Perseus, how long it's been. I bet you hardly smile like that." Marcus laughed slightly, nodding to the prince as he struggled to ignore that turtle's moves. If this night wasn't for what it was planned to be, he would have had the guards lock those monsters away by now, but neither of them could know that. "I only hope that my other guests do not feel interrupted by this. They are so very glad you could make it." And, indeed they would be if they knew of his plans.

All he had to do was make small talk until the Princess of Daimonds arrived. The orchestra knew what to do. As did the other nobles, but neither knew why their Prince wanted them to do so. But, they would soon enough. The thought just brought a larger smile to the Marcus' face. "How are your kingdoms? Not letting them weaken, are we? You know invaders can come at any moment! Haha!"

[Um... ^^; I'm the princess of hearts.]

Ruby eyed the Prince of Spades carefully, lifting an eyebrow at him and glancing at her advisor quickly before looking back at him and she smiled slightly. "As strong as it was when my mother ruled. Still as strong as ever." Ruby said, her eyes glimmering red before fading back to their natural emerald green color. "And what of yours? Seems to be doing quite nicely. Spades everywhere." she said in an unfamiliar tone to most.

She looked down at her gloves and she sighed a bit, glancing at the others around her. She still had an odd and strange feeling in her stomach that churned and she looked over at her advisor. She wanted him close. Ruby would then reach her hand up and brush some of her silky curls from her face and let them rest gently on her shoulder again.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Jet was lounging around his home, sighing as he was dusting some leaves from the entrance. A bumberoo ran past his foot, stabbing a needle into it. "YAOOHHH!!!" Jet screeched and he jumped, opening his mouth as flames spurt out straight at the little bumberoo and the little creature yiped as it's butt was covered in fire. Jet snorted as smoke came from his beak of a nose and he kept brushing the leaves away.

He noticed a letter lying near the door and he tilted his head, slowly picking it up. It was the reminder of the Prince of Spades holding a ball and he snorted again, throwing the letter on the ground and then sweeping again. He didn't have time for any royal bizzare party. Those royals were so stuck up. The only one he liked was the Prince of Clubs; the lazy and sleepy one who didn't like many parties. He could relate to that royal.

Jet yawned and then leaned on the tree, taking an apple from his pocket and munching into it.

Percy's grin disappeared as he watched Marcus's movement, his odd ...very cordial and kind behavior."I prefer not to grin at all actually, now you must pardon me I believe I shall go look for a place to nap...old friend."He said the last few words with slight hint of what could be identified as disgust as he bowed his head towards those around him and went off to go look for the couch he was sitting upon before. He ushered the Mock Turtle over telling him quite clearly to follow him wherever he was to go.

He finally spotted his uncle Albert still standing near the couch he had been earlier and he let out a sigh of relief."Albert my good man, so glad to see that your not dead or even worse...speaking with any of the Spades."He said chuckling slightly in a sleepy manner."Albert...I have an extremely bad feeling about this place." Albert gave a small nod and ran his fingers through his grey beard."Yes Sire I do believe you may be right about that. Everyone appears to be acting normally, or as normal as they usually do...but there is a certain ominous air around here.
~~~~~~~~~

The Caterpillar raised a blue eyebrow and rolled his eyes as he heard the Prince of Spades speak.His eyes wandered over towards Ruby and he marched over to position himself in a defensive stance much like how the Mock Turtle was with his Prince. If it was one thing the Caterpillar admired about the green bastard it was his dedication.

Listening attentively to the bitter banter between Caterpillar and Turtle, the White Rabbit couldn't help but roll his smoky-grey eyes. There was never a time where they could act civilized around each other, even around royalty, and he found that most unappealing. Even though at times it proved as free entertainment, Nivens fiddled nervously with the bottom of his checkered vest to keep himself busy. He spared a few quick glances up into Ruby's face, catching her gentile, pretend-smiles that she spared only to those she found exceptionally odd—or whenever she felt self-conscious or nervous. He spent enough time around Caterpillar and Ruby Heart to understand their expressions, and couldn't help but peer sheepishly around Ruby's arm to look at the blue man. Bristling immediately when Ruby kissed Caterpillar on the cheek—which left a reminding red mark, taunting him—the White Rabbit's small hands curled into fists and released when the Princess addressed him.

“It is my duty to serve at your side, My Lady.” Nivens promptly replied, offering a small smile before he arched his frosted eyebrows. He always took his role at the royal page seriously—even if all he did was blow his horn occasionally, and serve the Princess to his best capabilities. There wasn't much an old-fashioned rabbit could do besides hop around and fetch things, it often made him feel useless. He wasn't like the Caterpillar, who served as an advisor and someone who offered witty banter. I have nothing against him, I-I swear I don't. How could the Princess turn to him so? Was it Nivens height that made him seem so fragile, unreliable, perhaps? Or his unintentional tardiness? Nivens cringed inwardly at the thought, shuffling his booted feet slightly before pulling his pocket watches' chain that was looped around his waist. The Caterpillar, whom was his wisest friend, placed a small cup of wine in his hand and he nervously thanked him, sipping from it as gingerly as he could. He wasn't known for being the most graceful creature in Wonderland. “Quite right, I'm surprised I hadn't seen the Hatter on my way here.” Truthfully, he missed the mad lady and knew that the Caterpillar was equally as great a friend as she was.

Nivens nearly spilt his drink when someone knelt down behind him, feathering a hand over his white ears. They tucked close to his head before he twitched his nose, looked over his shoulder before turning around completely. “D-D-D... Don't frighten me like that, Madame.” Unfortunately, the White Rabbit hadn't ever shaken his stuttering habit. Upon seeing the Spades printed on her intricately designed clothes, he glanced up towards the Prince of Spades and then back to Doorodella. “I-I'm afraid we've never met.” He offered a bow, which was slightly awkward because of the giant pocket watch he was holding. “Nivens.”

The Turtle cough slightly and followed the Prince of Clubs not looking back at the other group of Nobles."Sire...you really should look at the letter now..." He said with bit of urgency apparent in his voice. The Turtle hopped once from one foot to another in an almost nervous like way.He had already read the letter...and what it said was something that was of no surprise to him but may have been of some surprise to his Lord."Sir...should I also keep a look out for when Diamond arrives with her parents? I know that you are rather ...protective of her sir..."He said in a somewhat quiet tone so that only Percy and his uncle could hear.

It was obvious that the Prince had somewhat secret feelings for the Princess, even if he didn't like saying it out loud. Mock found it quite endearing that the Prince could turn into such a softy when she was involved.He may have actually put off napping for her.

Anisia sighed and did a quick flip with her hair. She really hated her advisor sometimes he could be worse than her parents "In a way I suppose your right. Although I could have fun and just put them all in a painful sleep." She said with a smile. She thought back to what her parents had said about her behaving and what not. "To bad my parents want to be a kill joy. Sometimes I wish I could put them in a sleep." She sighed, she could see everyone talking and gathering around. Everyone looked nice in their own clothing fashion.

"Lets hope this party is fun?" She said with a grin before taking her final steps to the castle.