Arabella waited in silence as she listened to the Crimson Knight…she was drawn to him for some reason, never in her life had she met such a dangerous man. All of this danger was so intoxicating to her and she couldn’t help but love every minute of it. She should have been trembling for she was at the mercy of the Crimson Knight…a noted beast among men…yet she would have followed him out the door if she could. Quite a change she supposed but she honestly didn’t care.

“Free to leave…” She heard him say…why would she leave? Death would await a young Princess outside the castle for sure but in here lay excitement. She was of at least some value to them alive…or she hoped so. In her mind she must have been for them to spare her life so far. She did wonder though if It was a game of cat and mouse…just too much to think of. She needed to force herself to take things one step at a time. To rush things at this point could ruin everything she had worked so hard for.

Arabella watched with a raised brow as Warp stepped over to her. She wasn’t exactly comfortable but figured he would have killed or whatever he wanted already if he had so pleased. So without hesitation she held her hand out to his. She waited for him to do whatever fake gentleman gesture he pleased then turned on her heels. “Since I’m free to leave I do assume that it will be alright to change..” She dipped into a curtsey and spun around on her heels to step out of the main room.

She followed the halls in a close manner, taking the quickest route to her room she could remember. She gently pressed open the doors and stepped inside taking a hold of a light blue royal gown. She wanted to look good for the King…first impressions are everything. She took a cloth and dipped it in a small container of water and washed off the dirt she could. Then taking a hold of a brush she managed to tame her hair into a somewhat reasonable style. She was looking better,but it wasn’t until she slid the gown on that she became radiant.

Her tan features were brought out by the sky blue that seemed to perfectly match her eyes. And she even managed t o tease her brunette tresses into a bit of a playful curl. The dirt was gone, but the scars of where she had been cut by her bout in the woods still showed…but she still seemed to glow with that Demonte grace her family was so well known for.

Once done primping she slid on a pair of shoes that matched her dress well and stepped out of her room making sure to hold her gown high enough where she wouldn’t trip. She carefully stepped down the halls in a swift manner and out to the main hallway. She took a deep breath, not knowing what she was about to encounter. If the King saw her he may just kill her, no…they would have already…she was sure of it. That deep breath seemed to last forever as she pressed her delicate hands against the main doors and thrust them open.

As she stepped out her gaze fell upon Aries…a wonderful sight indeed. He nuzzled against her shoulder and she cooed softly to him, stroking his muzzle. He was looking worn out and she would have to take care of him…after she met the King. “You ready for one last adventure boy? You know the drill…things go bad you run like Hell…got it?” The horse bobbed his head up and down with a soft nicker as she smiled softly. He had to bow down for her to hop on side-saddle…something she was not accustomed to at all.

Taking on the role, Aries pranced down the small road outside the castle gates until they reached the royal group ahead of them. She smiled ever so softly as she sat in such a prim, proper, even delicate manner upon her well mannered steed. Her hair had flowed with each step of his prance, and then cascaded down to her shoulders as she pulled her buckskin stallion to a halt. Her sky blue hues flickered around a bit before they landed on who she assumed to be the King…he had to be on that white horse of his and the way the guards seemed to move in closer. She had a whole speech planned…she really did…but it was scarier than she thought and all she could squeak out was a soft “Hello”

Vyra threw the spear to the knight he took it from. The enemies walked away, chattering amongst themselves. Everything ended as fast as it started, did this mean Vyra was being accepted into the order of black knights? It seemed unlikely; The knights wouldn't allow Vyra to leave, and trying to escape would be futile. Plus, where would he run to? His only task at the moment was protecting the princess. Which seemed nearly impossible now. Infact, it seemed she didn't want anything to do with Vyra. The royal guard sat down on the spot, his various cuts oozed a thin sheet of blood that slid down his skin. No human is worth this amount of trouble...Donaria has fallen. I could just give up now and be free of my guardly duties...But...Why do I feel the need to keep protecting Arabella?....Why do I feel the need to constantly be around her?.....Why?..... Vyra punched the ground with annoyance. He glared at Warp, whom of which was talking to Arabella; He couldn't do a damn thing at the moment, he was trapped.

What would the king do with Vyra? Put him to work? Kill him? Extort him for information? It seemed anything but certain. Vyra watched as Arabella walked out of the room. Where to? Probally to the king. Did she form a trap of some sorts? Or was she just foolish; Vyra was fairly certain that she was going to be executed on the spot. And even though he had no solid proof, the very thought maddened him. But what could he do? The knights in the room outnumbered him. And what good would it do even if he could kill every knight in the room? He would have another battalion to deal with, plus Zermon.

Something wasn't right with Arabella's eyes. It was like she was in a trance. Had Zermon seduced Arabella? It seemed any man that seemed to walk in the unknown somehow seduced Arabella. Everyone but Vyra. The fact irritated him. But it wasn't like Vyra had a deep relationship with Arabella. It was mostly formal; Vyra stood up, and started pacing back and forth, as if he was nervous.

The King raised his eyebrows as the crowd of guards flowed around her. She waited for something...and he was farely sure he knew what it was. She muttered a small "Hello" in his direction, which caused him to grin devilishly. "Why hello, little one...you must be the Princess The Crimson Knight spoke of. He did say that you were nonagressive, but I didnt think he meant submissive." The bearded man cackled. "Alas, alas, why are you here, Mi'lady? I'm more than willing to listen to you." He said, motioning for her to ride beside him. Meanwhile, Zermon had just finished changing from his Crimson Knight armor, into his Regal Lord armor, and jogged up to the King and his new guest. His ebony hair moved with the wind, and out of his face. He felt so much lighter outside of the red fortress that imprisoned him half of the time. "My leige, whom might this be?" he said, feigning ignorance as he kept pace with the two riders. It wasnt long before they were outside the gates of Donaria's castle.

------
The Black Knights all looked amongst eachother. Eckesakes walked idly over to Vyra. He lifted his helm from his face, revealing a blonde headed man, with scars running across his face horizontally. "So. What is your name, son? You're good enough to take down one of us, which automatically qualifies you for being one of us...what would you do though?" He said, with almost what sounded like concern in his voice. "Our king knows no mercy, and you will most likely executed. If you join us, however, he will spare you....hopefully." He held his helm under his arm. "Either or...next time you fight us, it might help to know a tiny bit about us, huh?" He chuckled. He knew the rest of the Knights wouldnt mind him telling Vyra about them.
"Well, the first is Mass. He's that big fellow with the spear you took. Word to the wise: If you didnt notice, he has a chain that connects that thing to his armor. He was a captain in the royal guard for about a year, if I'm not mistaken...." Eckesakes said, pointing to the knight.
"Then, there is Launcher. Archer extrodinare. Saw him shoot a butterfly at three-hundred paces. While it was flying.
Goldtongue right there....isnt much of a fighter, but he could convince you to poison yourself almost. He knows how to talk." He said, snickering.
"That there, is....or was Bear. Goldtongue's brother. Shame he was cut down.
Next is Mute. He's the silent strong type. Rarely speaks, but when he fights, he means business.
That is Shadow. He works as our assassin, but I've seen him with a shortsword. It's clean work.
Warp, as you've seen works with ancient shit. Never seen anything like it, but he's scary as fuck. Once you've heard his voice, you cant unhear it. He's a mimic. If he were ever to meet eyes with someone, he would imatate them perfectly down to fingernail length. It's why he always looks down. Not that you can tell, with that hood.
He's Reaper. Fairly new guy, like me, but he uses weird farming tools as weapons. He says that it's because he was a farmer, but I dont believe that for a second. He kills to easy too be a field worker."
Eckesakes finally finished.

Arabella kept a tight hold to the reins of her stallion as she hesitated for just a minute…he wanted her to ride beside him. She wasn’t sure about this at all but she had come thus far…but getting herself to do it was one thing. Aries had different plans as he pinned his ears flat against his head. He heavily pawed he ground, snorting and grunting as his tail swished about in a menacing manner. He quickly proved himself dominant over the King’s horse holding his head high and kicking up every couple steps.

Arabella had to adjust herself a couple times, not used to the whole side saddle,lady-like thing at all. It felt strange yet oddly natural as she let her stallion take on his own pace. “Thank you…” It was all she managed to whimper out as she tried hard to stay comfortable upon her stallion. She glanced to her side as she was about to say more she saw a strange man jog up beside herself and the King. Aries let out an ear splitting stallion squeal as he snapped his powerful jaws at the man. He had a terrible feeling about this man and was not about to let him get too close.

Arabella’s face paled as she popped her stallion lightly on the neck. “Shush you…manners” It took everything the stallion had to force his draft sized body to relax into the cue of his rider despite all of his instincts telling him to strike the stranger down now and get it over with. He couldn’t go against his rider, the only thing he truly cared about in his life…he was hers sworn to protect and obey her as long as he lived.

“I wanted to talk to you…I…he…why? Why our Kingdom? What did we do to cause you to force so much destruction upon us?” She kept a carefully gaze upon the King as she tilted her head gently, Aries keeping his gaze on the suspicious man.

The king rubbed his bearded chin. He was clearly trying to face chilvalry, but it wasnt working. His sinister eyes gave him away. They gave a stare that was sharper than daggers. "We have no particular grudge against you, Mi'lady. You were simply the closest to us. Not to mention the one with the weakest military force. But to be fair, you are just the begining..." He said, grinning again with evil behind his face. "We have started with you, and according to the Crimson Knight, will have the next kingdom within the week. We've had but one casualty, one of the Black Knights. As far as I care, they could all die. They are pawns. And this they know. They are all pawns just like the soldiers in my armies, and the servants the tend to my every whim. Their lives? Close to worthless." He said still grinning.

Zermon stood close to the king, stone-faced. He heard the kings words, and he knew that they were true. It had not been the only time he had heard them. He continued to keep pace with Arabella and his king. "Ah. This must be the noblewoman of the house. The queen, correct?" He said again, faking that he didnt know the woman. "It's nice to meet you, miss. I am Glaus, part of the royal guard. Can I ask how you managed to get those barbarous Black Knights to spare you long enough to get here? Or were you never inside the castle?" He questioned.

The King dismounted, and few guards came into formation around him. He motioned for Arabella to walk with him. "Men, encircle the castle, and make a perimeter. Noone in or out without my say so. That includes the Crimson Knight." He said, begining to walk down the halls of the castle, Zermon following close behind.

((There was no double post here. Nope. Not one.))

Arabella arched a brow at the King…dismounting would mean leaving her stallion behind and his protection. But she didn’t have much of a chance without obeying his orders…they had no reason at all not to kill her and she was living simply on their mercy at this point and she knew this fact well. She ignored the stranger…mostly because she had no idea of a response to him. He basically asked why she was still alive? She was still wondering about that fact herself.

She finally let out a sigh and slid off her stallion, onto the ground in a graceful manner. She pat her stallion’s neck and gave him a soft kiss on his muzzle. “Go off for a bit…I will be fine my dear” Aries lifted his head at her words and let out a soft grunt as he backed away a bit. He did understand…but nothing could make the idea any more favorable in his equine mind. She gently turned to the King forcing those delicate rosey lips of hers into a soft smile. She followed the King carefully, yet sank back towards the stranger who Aries had not taken so kindly to.

Vyra stopped his frantic paceing, shifting his cold, yet worried gaze to a man; He spoke to Vyra with a degree of kindness. Which he found more than a little odd. "I am Vyra, 1st royal gua-.......Former, 1st royal guard......." Vyra said with a slightly depressed tone. The man pointed out to every member of the group, telling a little bit about them; When the man finally finished talking, Vyra perked his head up. This group of knights was interesting, each seemed to specialize in a particular skill set. They had assassins, berserkers, archers, spearmen, and even a magic user; Vyra could feel himself growing weaker just by a hair width. "Well.....It doesn't look like I have much of a choice here. Either join, or die." Vyra closed his eyes for a second, breathing in deeply. "I'll join." He said with a serious tone.

Vyra shifted his gaze to Warp. A mimic, huh? He thought to himself with a raised eyebrow. Vyra turned back to Eckesakes. "So, how do I join the black knights anyways? Do I defeat a member of the group, or something of that sort?...Or is it just by the judgment of the king?...." Vyra said with a casual voice; Suddenly, the echo of footsteps bounced through the grand hall. "?" Vyra looked back at the main door to the grand hall. It must've been the king; Vyra waited for the king to enter. Not knowing his fate; If he would be executed, then Vyra would have to run. The black knights wher too powerful to fight alone, not to mention the kings men; And Vyra couldn't imagine actually becoming a black knight either.

As the guards followed The King and Arabella, there was murmer amongst them as they strode down the hall. "Bet he'll kill her. Nah, slave. She will definitely be a slave. Torture chaimber is my bet..." The whispers continued from the amount of soldiers trailing the three in the lead. Zermon shot a glare back against them, and turned back around. The three finally reached the great hall, and stepped inside. Wherever they were, the Black Knights knelt and bowed their heads, with the exclusion of Warp. The King walked straight past all of them, strutting straight to the throne, and placed himself in it, grinning. "Well...it seems a nice place so far! You lived well, didnt you Princess?" He said snarkily. Zermon took his place at his right side, standing formally.
------
Warp was among the few whom didnt bend his knees to this man. In his mind, the King was nothing but a monster. If only...if only...his mind trailed on.
------

Eckesakes nodded. "A mimic, yeah. His kind is rare. In fact, I'd go as far to say he's the last one alive. They were known for rebelious acts and hatred. However, The King has Warp under blood pact. As long as both persons of the soul pact live, then the lesser is bound to the greater. Mimics have lifespans up to four to five hundred years. Warp is only twenty-something. The sad thing is, as long as the King has offspring, Warp is bound to serve them too." Eckesakes said lightly, with only a hint of care in his voice. The King, Arabella, and Zermon walked into the great hall, and the Black Knights kneeled.
------

The King spoke again, clearly across the Hall. "Alright, Black Knights, I shall be residing here for a while. Go out with the Crimson Knight, and assume command over the next Kingdom. However, with this man here, I'd believe I need extra protection. I want a few of you to stay here with me. More than half of you should be affable protection.

The Knights talked amongst themselves before turning back to the King. "Yes, Mi'lord. We will be leaving in your company Mass, Warp and Eckesakes. They will defend you to the last breath if required." The one called Goldtongue said with a voice that sounded as smooth as velvet. "The rest of us will make quick work of the next kingdom. We do however, wish to have a little bit of support. With your permission, we'd like half the battalion you currently have."
"Granted, you black-snake. Now out with you." The king said bluntly. The rest of the Black Knights that werent staying, shuffled from the room, and spoke amongst eachother again. The room was filled with only the king, Arabella, Vyra, Eckesakes, Warp and Mass...whom wasnt really paying attention. The king turned his iron gaze on Vyra. "Boy, you've shown your metal...the corpse which lies there prove which. I give you a chance to serve under me, as a replacement for the one you killed. You will have by the next morning to decide your fate. Think hard on it."
Next was Arabella. "Girl, you have shown courtesy, and manners...not to mention your beautiful face. I present to you a few options, and you're more than welcome to propose your own. First and foremost, you could become my bride, and live with me upon this rising empire. Secondly, you could become a lowly maid for my new castle. And you could forget you were ever part of any kind of nobility, and so forth. Or, you could be executed. It is your choice, m'dear. You too have untill the sunrise to choose. You're more than welcome to reside in my new castle for this night."
He ponited to Warp. "You are in charge of guarding the boy's chaimber. However, you are to serve him hand on foot. Whatever he requires, you must give it to him...be this within reason. The same goes for you and the girl." He said pointing to Eckesakes.

Arabella ‘s face paled as the King spoke…three options…become his bride,be executed, or become a maid. She knew well execution was the most honorable thing to choose in her state, but in a way honor held little if any importance in her life right now. She had the chance to become a wife to the King who had taken over. It wasn’t a terrible offer at all…he wasn’t exactly One Blade whom she had grown to care for in quite a deep manner but he was a King and could offer his protection.

She had watched the Knights lead to take over the next Kingdom and well she pitied them in a way but at least they were done with the destruction of hers. She bit her lip, thinking carefully on her decision. Vyra would for sure hate her for her decision, she knew this fact well but maybe as the King’s bride she could better keep an eye on her guard and maybe protect him. She gave a gentle nod of reassurance to herself, then turned her back to Vyra…she had no desire to see his reaction to her choice.

“If it so pleases you…then I would choose to become your bride Sir” Her own words made her cheeks flush a dark red as she gazed to the floor. What would her dear Baxter think of this choice? She had to do it, to keep an eye on Vyra. As a maid she would be kept out of any matters and that fact was just as likely as the King’s bride…but at least she would have a chance maybe in persuasion. Although, she hoped she made the right decision…the King seemed scary and unapproachable…maybe he would change once they were married? She couldn’t even imagine being married to such a stern man but she had to…Vyra was the only thing from her past that she had left and she was determined to ensure his safety no matter what.

Vyra nodded. Becoming a black knight seemed fairly easy; The king had given him the option. Even so, the other option was probally death. Vyra glanced at Baxter's dead body. Baxter..... Vyra said within his mind. He was a honourable man. And Vyra would even say he looked up to Baxter to a certain extent. Vyra turned around, facing the main door. The king had given Arabella a impossible choice. It was a lose-lose-situation so to speak; Even then. Arabella seemed to be sure of her choice, and Vyra knew it. She.....She wouldn't.... Vyra's eyes widened just a bit as he looked back at Arabella. Her choice made his heart ache with pain; He grabbed his chest with his right hand. The pain was deep and corrupting. But Vyra had to mannage himself; The boy turned his head back to the door, letting out a sharp, but quiet growl.

Vyra started slowly walk out of the main hall; Once he was out of the large room, he started walking down a hallway, traveling back to Aries where his money and armor was; Vyra was almost outside when suddenly he saw a sword laying on the ground. He picked it up and examined it. It was soon apparent it was One Blade's; Vyra strapped it onto the side of his waist. And continued walking; Vyra reached Aries within a matter of minutes. Vyra took his armor and strapped it on, shoving the little gold he had into his pants pockets.

Vyra walked back into the castle, and headed to the laundry room.

The King smiled wickedly. He didnt think it would be that easy to persuade Arabella, but he knew when not to look a gift horse in the mouth. "Aaaah. So you already think you know, Mi'lady? Please, spend the night thinking about this. I'd hate for you to do something you'd regret. Besides, you know the saying, do you not? 'Time spent thinking clearly be not time wasted'? Do well to think this through, if you would." He said. He nodded to Eckesakes. "Escort her to her room, Knight. We shall have chefs here momentarily to have a grand feast sent to hers, but the rest of my forces must plan their next move...and we'd best not be distracted by the girl or her guard." He said, almost annoyed.

Zermon looked over to his King and nodded. "If we strike by noon tommorow, we might have an advantage...." He started.
-------

Eckesakes, tapped the princess's shoulder lightly, readorning his helm. "This way." He said, begining to tug on her appearal lightly. He would lead her down the hallways, and to a room at the end of the corridor. He would open the door for her. It was a guest room, but it was a nice one. "The King will send for you if he needs for you. You're free to go wherever you wish, but let you kindly stay in this room for tonight. It would make keeping up with you significantly more tollerable." He said, with unusually cold tone. "But, I am here if you need anything, Mi'lady. You heard sire's words as well as I. Can I bring you anything?"

--------
Warp watched Vyra walk out of the main hall, and trailed slowly after him. As if not following him..but curious to see where he went. His footsteps barely made sound, and it was very hard to notice him if you didnt see him. After a while of trailing Vyra, Warp increased his pace, and strode next to Vyra. He placed a frail hand on the man's shoulder. It wasnt threatening or supposed to be frightning...it felt...odd though. Having something that light touch you.

He smiled behind his hood, his eyes only following the regal rugs the two walked upon. He waited for Vyra to say something....and maybe he would say something back.

Arabella listened carefully to his words “Think of your choice..” She muttered to herself. She had no desire to think of it anymore…to do so would only bring certain doubt to her mind and she could not back out, not yet. She cringed at the thought…her in her wedding dress with the King…it wasn’t at all as she imagined her wedding when she was younger. He had the noble white steed but he was older than her, yet in a way she figured she could persuade herself to think of this as yet a new adventure. Her spirit and passion for the unknown had not dwindled by any means at all. She gave a gentle nod and decided it for the best that she goes on with it.

His reference to her as “the girl” made her snarl lightly… “How about future wife…” She muttered to herself hoping the King hadn’t heard her little outburst. With a roll of those dark brown hues of hers she followed the lead of the Knight leading her making sure to keep pace with him. He was the most gentle of all the Knights and she was slowly growing fond of him. Keeping up with her? Heh…she was 18 and a young woman how hard could it be for a Black Knight to keep up with her? But she knew well that it was best not to cause a stir. She was trying to save both hers and Vyra’s life right now and the best thing she could do was simply go along.

“I’m fine but if you wouldn’t mind staying I would like the company…” She offered a soft smile as she walked over to the bed and sat down gently. “Or my music box from my room I do miss the soft tune. And my hairbrush…shoot could I just go to my room and pick up a few things? I promise not to run or anything…besides I would be stupid to do something of that sort…” She paused and tilted her head “If it’s too much trouble I understand…it isn’t really my room anymore in the first place…sorry”

As soon as near everyone had left, Zermon turned to the king. "Are you sure this is wise, Sire? Surely she will flee. Your guards may be stronger than her, but not faster nor more cunning." He said with a stern tone. It slightly irritated him that he had done all of this for nothing, and yet the King was still letting the only prize flee. "Not to mention that Guard is beyond what he looks. Underestimating him would be the last you could do." He finished.
"Cool your head, Glaus. You think too much. We use this to our advantage." The king said in his normal mallicious voice.
"How so, Sire?"
"Think. The Princess will escape, and run to the nearest kingdom, and plead for help. They well tell of our devistation. If we were to head out right after Arabella..."
"Then Jehana's queen too busy listening to her tale, that she will hardly expect the force to be so close. It is a risky manuver..."
"Yes. But I believe that it will be paid for in many lives. And if not, than we loose a few of our men. I am prepared to take that risk."
"Very well, Sire. What will you have of me?" Zermon inquired.
"You are Glaus, Glaus. Do your job and defend me. And seeing as there are no imminant threats, then you are more than welcome to relax for the moment."

Zermon sighed, and nodded, walking to a chair, and planting himself in it.

------
Eckesakes nodded. "You're more than welcome to aquire whatever you require from the castle. It was yours." He said with a little bit softer voice. He was puzzled by the woman's want for company. It was odd. He knew he was near the kindest of the Knights, but...it didnt make sense to him. He would allow the princess to lead him to her old room, where she stepped inside. It was no surprise to him that it was nicely decorated, and clean. He stood adamant by the doorway, and waited for the Princess to say else.

Vyra could feel himself starting to break at this point. Not physically, but mentally. His mind was at it's limit. His stress level was increasing by the second, then in turn that affects his problem solving skills and such. Vyra's muscles shaked and twitched with each step. Any motion Vyra made shot searing pain into his head. At this moment he realized he was just a kid. He wasn't the ultimate warrior because he lacked the correct mental capabilities. Maybe even fortitude.

Vyra hated this realization, infact, he strived to prove this wrong. He had trained all his life for this very moment, but, for some reason. Some acheing, burning reason. He couldn't prevail. He felt like a helpless child, to the point where Arabella was trying to save HIM; Vyra's resolve wasn't strong enough. It shook and cracked, untill it broke. Honor and nobility meant nothing now. Hell, even honesty or loyalty mean nothing; It was pathetic.

Vyra didn't feel Warp's light hand at first, but soon her started to feel his cold, cold hand against his shoulder; Along with a pair of footsteps. Vyra's pace decreased slowly, untill he finally stopped. Even then, he didn't bother to look back. He knew it was Warp. Who else would be so silent? Or, ominous for that fact. Vyra could literally feel the air thicken in the hallway. He could feel such a strange pressence, it was almost, intoxicating; Or maybe it was just Vyra becoming tired from the blood he lost.

So, a mimic was behind him. Looking back at him would probally only cause trouble. Even if Warp was looking down at the ground; Vyra paused for maybe thirty seconds. Maybe just to wait to see if Warp was going to talk. After the thirty seconds past, the silence still remained. "What do you want...?" Vyra said with a flat, serious tone; Vyra looked straight ahead of himself. Awaiting some sort of response from the mysterious man named 'Warp'

Warp slowed with Vyra's slowing. He knew the man was catious of him, but his tone made his conclude that Vyra wasnt in the mood for idle conversation. Warp was no big talker...but he wasnt going to stay completely silent either. The man's body slowly rotated to face Vyra, his eyes looking down as not to make eye contact. He finally spoke. And his voice was not what you were expecting. It...couldnt even be discribed. His S's seemed to drag on forever. C's and K's drug across his lips like iron spikes on a chalkboard. Vyra would begin to question if it was even possible to make such sounds with a voicebox.

"Sssssaaaanccccctuary." He said the simple word. It was hard for him to talk without being to he should stop breathing. He waited to see if the Guard had any remark on his creepy voice.

Arabella stepped carefully to her room, her dress flowing behind her as she walked. Each step had a quiet regalness to it along with a gentle sway of her delicate hips. She stepped into her room and looked around. “You may come in…besides it’s more your castle than mine anyways now…” She said with a slight snarl in her voice. She stepped over to her dresser and picked up the music box she had mentioned, slowly twirling the nob so that it began to play a soft melody that filled the room. She turned around with a bit of a devlish grin and made her way over to the Black Knight in an almost seductive manner. She took his hands gently and placed them around her in a ballroom dancing position, then tugged him into a slow waltz with the gentle tune flowing from the music box.

She was giggling softly throughout the whole thing…the comfort of her room had brought her old self back…the self that would do anything in any place at any time. She had missed her randomness and playfulness,but she had no desire to press her luck so when the short song ended she threw herself back on her King sized bed,landing with a soft grunt. She leaned up and smiled towards the Knight whom she would assume to be quite stunned. “I’m staying in here for the night…if anyone wants to say otherwise they will have to drag me kicking and screaming out of here!”

((HOLY FUCKING BALLS! WE GOT A ENTIRE PAGE OF TRIPLE POSTS! AND THEN SOME!!!)

Vyra felt extremely uncomfortable listening to the mans voice. It was soft, yet jagged. It was quiet, yet loud. Refined, but gritty; It was unlike anything he had ever heard. But then again, he wasn't talking to a human...Vyra kept a serious face; This mimic wanted sanctuary? Inner peace? Well, it made sense. From what Eckesakes told Vyra, Warp must be tortured every day, forced to kill for a fat pig like the king. Vyra gave a quick shake of his head. He couldn't pity Warp, he had his own problems to deal with.

Vyra was at a lost for words anyways; How could you respond to 'Sanctuary'? Vyra wasn't the man to come to either way. He used to have sanctuary, but now..Now he is tortured, the princess probally hates him, and he's going to be forced to kill. "You won't find sanctuary untill the king and his children, are dead." Vyra said with a serious voice and expression; Even so, his words wher true. With Warp's magic you'd think he'd make short work of the king, given that he stays in the castle for awhile; But afterwards, he'd have a big fat bounty on his head. "Why are you following me...?" Vyra said with the same voice.

Warp was odd, but you couldn't expect differently from a mimic. Even then, he wasn't at all talkative. Maybe he really had been worn down to the bone by the king. Just maybe, he had already been broken mentally. And probally rebuilt by the king aswell.

Warp too was at a loss for words. Vyra had understood him perfectly. Yet they both knew nothing could be done currently. Warp pondered in his head, motioning for Vyra to keep walking. He needed to keep thinking too. He knew only one way that he could help...but it would mean the death of him by many means. If there was anything to be done, they'd have to talk with Eckesakes. He returned to his silence, hoping Vyra would continue with whatever he was doing before he touched the man. He gave a slight nod to Vyra, before racing down the hallway where Eckesakes had led the Princess. He pushed open the door, and saw the room empty. His mind wondered to where they had gone...

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Eckesakes was taken by extreme surpise as the woman placed his hands on her, and began to dance around. The Knight stumbled awkwardly in his armor, but was somewhat keep up with her. What in the hell was she doing? Why did she do it? Why was she giggling? His mind overflowed with questions for the girl, but finally she settled down on the bed, still giggling. It more than startled him. Had she gone mad? What she...flirting with him? What was going on just then?!

He could only grin lightly as she told the Knight she'd have to be drug kicking and screaming from the room. "Oh? Is that so? Well, be that the case, you might just reside here for the rest of the night." Socially, Eckesakes was clueless. He had very little social skills outside the battlefield or talking to fellow fighters. He pulled his helm from his head, again his blonde hair diving from the metal it was encased in. His face was clearly blushed as set his helm on a nightstand. "So...might I ask what in the world the dance was about? I...enjoyed....enjoyed it...but it was beyond surprising." He could barely sputter out.

Arabella smiled softly “I like to dance…a lot always have. With my Father,my brothers…” She twirled around,letting her dress and brunette locks flow with her movement “Even by myself…like I was at a ball…with a Prince! I do hope the King knows how to dance…I can’t imagine a wedding without dancing!” She smiled softly and took his hand leading him gently to the bed as she plopped down on the edge.

She let out a long.soft sigh as she sat upon the edge of her bed thinking carefully about something…everything…and nothing at all. She was terribly confused right now but oddly happy…she might be getting married. And even though it was not her dream ceremony she couldn’t help but feel that rush of excitement at the new life approaching.

Eckesakes rubbed the back of his head as he listened to the Princess. She must've had quite the past life before everything was taken away from her. He shook the thought off. His heart was noble, but he still had one, at least. "I'm sorry the tide of war washed over your kingdom so quickly. It is a shame that our king cares so little about you. And yet, he will take you as his wife? Surely you will decline, no?" He said lightly. "He is a heartless fool, and would eagerly put you in front of him if it meant himself living." He knew this would be concidered high treason if he got caught. But it was the way he felt. The only reason he got into the Black Knights is because he was the most skilled swordsman they had besides Zermon.
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Speaking of Zermon, he idly paced outside the main hall, waiting for the king and his advisors, both military and normal finished his plans for the next kingdom. It was a quiet pace, despite the armor that covered him. He knew what he was going to do already. He knew that by the end of the knight, he would be leaving as the Crimson Knight. He'd best start now, and be ahead of schedule...
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Warp dashed down the hallways, peering into each doorway as he came to them. Finally, he reached the door, where he heard Eckesakes voice inside. He pushed the door open, quickly walking inside. He walked over next to Eckesakes. With shocking ease, he reached up, and pulled the taller man down to beside his hood, and began to whisper into his ear. The blonde-headed black knight shuddered every few words, showing the effect of Warp's voice on even those used to it. Eckesakes looked over to him. "You sure? You, of all people?" he said shortly. Warp responded with a solid nod.
"You know what the King will do to you, right?" Eckesakes said boldly.
There was a pause from the hooded man, but he nodded yet again.
Warp looked out the window. Dusk was upon the castle, and soon, nightfall would be too. The perfect oprotunity...

Arabella thought about it carefully…the Knight was right about the King. “Perhaps…but what else am I to do? If I run I have nowhere…nobody…I will be homeless and alone. All I’ve ever wanted was to get married and have children. How can I do that if everyone is too scared of marrying an enemy rogue Princess?”

Arabella paused a minute and stood up from the bed. Her expression was one of pure helplessness and longing. “Come with me…you aren’t happy here. I see it…you know it…we will take Vyra and run. There is a Kingdom but it’s a good ways away. I used to go there when I was little for play dates with the Prince…they are much more powerful than the Black Knights and it would be beneficial to us to go there. Just think…the King and his Black Knights stomped out!”

Arabella stopped, slapping a delicate hand over her mouth as she saw Warp walk in. She overheard the whisper just a tad,sending chills up and down her spine. With a soft sigh she lowered herself back to the bed and stared up at Warp. Had he mad some sort of deal? Was he trying to free himself? She wasn’t exactly sure but a plan was slowly forming in her mind.

She slowly stepped over to Warp and ran her fingers along his hood…she did feel his pain somehow and felt sorry for him “Neh…you need an escape as much as I do. Possibly more…” Her blue hues were filled with concern as she placed a gentle kiss on the being’s hood. “I do believe more desire an escape than I thought…”

Eckesakes nodded. "It sounds like a glorious plan. We are going to walk you out of here. No matter how many men we have to cleave to do so!" He offered a reckless grin, before looking over to Warp. His face wasnt visible, though you could almost feel the seriousness radiating from him. Eckesakes looked to the Princess. "Mi'lady, we will have to fight to get out of here alive. Please, stay behind me, and Warp will protect you. Well." His word was solid, as if he knew the man's power. It was likely, as they worked together. "Come. Gather your things, and we will leave by nightfall." He said, looking out the window. "And find the Guard too. We will need his blade."
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Warp nodded again, and froze as the woman planted a kiss on his hooded form. He offered a bow in her direction, before turning back to Eckesakes. "Thhhhen, it issss ssssettled. This CAstle, will not be the lasssst thing you sssseee." His voice, though almost painful to listen to offered a form of assurance. Moreso he seemed to tense. It was like he was readining himself for something. He would put a hand on the Princess's shoulder, in a calming way, before turning around to the door suddenly. He stopped. Footsteps migrated away from their doorway...
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The King had been walking from the Main Hall, Zermon in tow when he just happened to pass the room Arabella and company were in. He heard the entire thing, and his menacing mind began to formulate the most devistating counter plan, which he would take their little band of trators apart piece by piece...He remained silent as he walked away from the room, whispering his new plan to his royal guard, which strode not far behind.

"I want men outside the gates. It's near woodland outside, so you should use that to your advantage. Set up an ambush. I'll deal with Warp. Make sure they get to the ambush, though. I'd like them to feel hope before they die." He said sinisterly. He pressed his hand to his beard. Oh how painful this would be for them. Especially little Arabella.

Arabella nodded gently…she was getting her escape and the life she wanted. She knew Warp and Eckesakes wouldn’t let a thing happen to her as long as she followed their plans. But she did begin to wonder how easy this would be...surely the King has dealt with rebellions before. He is obviously not the most popular noble by any means. But she would let hope fuel her in this endeavour...hope of a new life.

Arabella ran down the hallways calling out softly for Vyra until she finally located him. A bright smile played across her soft rosey lips as she wrapped her arms around him. “We’re getting out...gonna be free...” She whispered softly in his ear,then planted a soft friendly kiss upon his cheek before grabbing his hand. “My dear friend...we will certainly need you for this...You are like a little brother to me and I do not wish to see you under this tyranny as a Knight...not if I can help it..”She leaned back on her heels waiting patiently for his response...praying he would go alone with it.

Vyra rubbed his head a bit, only to find a blistering heat; He must've caught a cold. It didn't suprise him at all, considering all of the trouble and chaos he had just recently been through; Vyra continued walking down the hall, as Warp left. Vyra entered the laundry room. The baskets of water almost beckoning to Vyra. Vyra stripped himself of his armour, washing his body and the armour...

The basket of water eventually, over time grew tainted with blood. Vyra looked into the bloodied water, it was sickening. But, at least he felt clean now. Vyra then put his armour back onto his body, along with his normal clothing. He stood there, in the dark laundry room for awhile. Thinking; Thinking about Arabella, and what he was going to do. His moralities were being literally stretched to they're limits. He wasn't a religious man by any means, but, his realationship with Arabella, was...Complicated, to say the least. Although it was a pretty one-sided relationship. Arabella didn't have the same feelings for Vyra as Vyra had for her. That was a constant.

The clouded guard shook his head gently, turning to the door and exiting the room. Only to find Arabella rushing straight into him; It caught him off guard, to be hugged so suddenly. Vyra stood there, recovering from the minor shock; He could feel nothing, not a single touch, shred of warmth. Something was wrong with him, something desperately. Was it because he had just taken a human life? Or because he had came to terms with the opposeing kings proposal. As soon as Arabella had spoken, and let go of him. He just simply turned his back on her, and started walking down the opposite hall, towards the sparring grounds; He mummered a few, serious words. "It's usless. Theres too many soldiers. Not even if all of the black knights joined the escape, they would still fail..." A few, small shreds of care were put into these words, but they wher harsh and cold. As if telling a infant for the first time that santa claus didn't exist.

As Vyra grew farther away from Arabella, he let out a few, even more subtle words. "Donaria is finished...I have been disbanded as a royal guard....Anything I do for you now is purely for personal purposes....Arabella, don't try to escape...It will only lead to more pain...And suffering....." Vyra paused himself for a minute, then mummering another, mysterious phrase. "It's too soon Arabella. Bide your time, Princess...Freedom will come soon enough..." With that, Vyra resumed his walk to the training grounds, he couldn't look at Arabella's face. He couldn't stand it. He felt guilty, so guilty it hurt...He felt that everything that had happened was somehow his own fault, and his alone...

Such a lonley feeling filled his entire body...

A feeling of hollowness...

A feeling of despair...

But also...

A feeling of hatred........