Feet were heard throughout the foyer of the castle, she'd been out since the sun went down, and she really hoped her parents wouldn't find her. Something was ruffling around and making soft noises in her jacket and she would shush it now and then. Her short black messy bob cut hair moved with every tilt of her head, and her fangs peeked out every few words, but only due to the fact that she had no reason to hide her vampirism. Her cheeks were paler than most and her eyes were black, mostly due to the fact she rarely fed. She tried to keep herself .Iquiet, but she knew the suitors would arrive tonight or tomorrow morning, it was eight Am after all. Half of her hoped they'd get lost in the winter snow, but the other half wished for Omniescent gifts, wishing to know who she'd marry, and what they were like. She didn't feel too ready for this, but she'd do what she has to for her country, "Shhh kitty...they'll hear you... I'm not supposed to have you here..but December is too cold for a little kitten.." she whispered, passing the guards moments later, "If the Suitors drop by, let them in after an identification check..kay?" she added with a smile, waving at them before running off towards her room.

Bella and Alan sat upon the wall of the palace, from their placement they could see perfectly through a window and at the princess. Alan tapping one of his katanas frowned, how easy it would be to kill her now, but no, he couldn't start with royalty for fear of activating some ancient curse.

The princess moved and now Bella frowned before disappearing. Alan didn't blink but in less time then most people could blink he disappeared as well.

Back at their "safe house" the twins sat facing each other, each with a glass of expensive red wine in their hand.
Bella started "You will join the suiters, I will make sure you can. Once in you will charm her, as hard a task as that might be for you, and while doing this you will kill or turn the other suiters. I will handle the invasion preparation, I will see if I can get the bitch's sick in the head sister to hear logic and join us."

Alan for his part just nodded, it was hopeless for a fighter like him to argue with someone like his sister. A mage with Hells rune of knowledge.

When the suiters start to arrive Alan watches on from the roof of a nearby building before hopping down and joining behind one of them.

It so turns out that Bella had sent a letter a week before stating that Alan would be there as a suitor, although it wasn't Alan, but Lord Hunce of the Outlanders, a small band of mages and warriors who were looking for a country to call home, on a whole not much was known about them.

Horns sounded and drums beat as a large sedan chair with violet curtains covering everything except the front where one could see Zakia upon his chair. It was lead forward by a group of sixteen men in violet robes wearing masks of grotesques design the marched chanting strange words of prayer. Behind them marched twelve men in violet robes with a overlaying breastplate, their faces concealed behind skeletal masked helms. They carried banners that marked Zakia’s homeland, Mercei in its violet banners holding the strange upside down horned cross in a black silhouette. Behind them five men in black white armored gilded with violet roses on their chest plates with gold trimming on the edges of their plates were his honor guard of knights. As the procession came to the base of the keep Zakia descended the stairs after his servants had laid the sedan down. He came off a cloak of gold on his back which he shed taking it into his hands before carelessly tossing it to the crowd which had formed to see the procession of suitors… after all there was a chance the suitors would give away gifts.. If the princess cared enough about her people she may find charitable acts a boon… if not it wasn’t like he couldn’t get another easy enough. He tightened his gloves as he began to walk towards the keep his men lifted the Sedan chair and moved back down the road, Zakia didn’t want them getting in his way… they were honor guard yes… but they were nobility and he doubted half of them could beat a child let alone someone he would have a difficult time with… it just wasn’t practical to worry about the fools. He idly brushed his hand over the coins he had brought more then enough for himself… probably enough for his entire procession as well which made him smirk slightly. He glanced down to his sword it was more then suitable for killing… maybe not enchanted but crafted well enough to wound anything in his way. He fingered the box in which he carried as a gift to the princess, black obsidian with gold trim and a violet mark of the strange cross his nation was so fond of. He told the guards who he was, Zakia Inquisitor lord and ruler of Mercei after being admitted he quickly found his room he would visit the princess soon… but for now he began to comb his hair and adjust his clothing until everything was perfectly aligned. He wanted to look perfect… in body, soul, and mind and then he’d play his games…

Areon

Areon had been waiting outside the castle for quite some time now. Thanks to the winter, he was able to travel much faster than any of the others, the cold was the last thing that could stop him. While he was moving closer to palace, he thought about waiting sometime for his hosts to prepare. He knew that humans and others of similar kin, may they be elves, dwarves or even vampires, needed their rites, so their life would look a little more ordered than they truly were. He used the three days he were early to create a sculpture outside, it was not like he needed the attention for his work, but this was one of exceptional quality. It shows the body of a young woman, the shape of the princess as the others had told him she looked. It was true that he had never seen her in person, but the story the nearby townsfolk told, gave him a good impression about her. He had the material, he used to shape the sculpture, brought with him to this place, everlasting ice, from the top of the highest glacier of the north. He placed a thin silken curtain, he had bought from a nearby town, over the sculpture to cover it. Once he finished his work of three days, he was just about to return to the road, to finish his way. He heard, or better felt, a movement close by running towards the palace. It was probably only a servant running late, or someone who wishes to visit the marriage. Carefully he moved towards the guards near the gates, who seemed a little confused at something that had just passed through. Still carrying the sculpture with him, the ground of it seemingly melted with the surface of the ground, he spoke up.

"Gentleman? If you would please allow me to move in, I think I am already expected by the ... majesties. My name is Areon."

Areon seemed to still have some problems with the human tongue as he spoke these words slowly. His voice seemed soft, much like a whisper, but clear and ordering at the same time. The guards quickly turned around, to look closely at the figure standing there within the cold winter, dressed only in a simple white robe. One of them pulled out a list and tried to read it, till the other hit his comrade's head with the open hand. With a murmured "Stupid!", he took the list and checked it, to nod later. Areon watched the show while being slightly amused. The guard with the list in the hand checked on him again, but then winked him past, welcoming him into the palace of the Kuran family.

With a nod he continued into the palace only to learn that the rulers both retreated to their quarters for quite some time. It seems they are weaker than the rumors, Areon had heard about them. He handed his cold stature in to one of the servants in the palace, with a smallm spoken note.

"Please, take this to Princess Isabella as a gift of my admiration towards her. Tell her that I would wait for her in the throne room, should she still be available. Oh, and could you bring me a glass full of water, it was an exhausting travel here."

The servants hasted to bring the sculpture to his superiors, telling him what the guest wished. In truth he hasted as he didn't know how to behave towards this strange guest, protocol has told them how to handle a lot of different species, but this one seemed at least as otherwordly as his lords and ladies. One of the handmaidens made sure that Isabella would receive both, the gift and the message. She needed to warm her hands other a fire afterwards thought.

---

Selinia

The vampire lady rose from her bed, next to her lay a body of a relatively handsome young man, obviously dead, covered completly in his own blood. Selinia smiled at the scene. No, piece of art was more fitting, she thought to herself. The lifeless eyes of the human were still eying the ceiling as he laid there, thought dead, but next to one of the most influental vampires available. She leaned down and whispered something into the dead body's ear.

"You make such a nice looking corpse, I told you. Sadly you can't see yourself now"

With that she leaned in to drink some of the still flowing blood from the thoat of her victim. As she did that her thoughts run wild. Soon would those suitors arrive for the sake of her cousin, this nasty bitch of a ursuper. If it wouldn't be for her, she would have been next in the line, once her decaying uncle and aunt had passed away. Oh, how she would love to tear the heart of Isabella out, to devour her soul. Lazily she stood up, but her eyes were still filled with anger. She will have all those men from all over the world coming for her, but what did she do to deserve it?, Nothing! Selinia had gone through that much of work and stress,, and what did she get for that, such simple mortals! Her eyes focused the body on the bed. If eyes could kill - and the person on the bed wouldn't already be dead - she would have pierced him now and than. In anger she took the body and through the naked corpse out of her, gladly open, window. With a satifying sight she heard a disgusting sound as the body lnded in one of the trees. She put over a thin cloth she weared for the night and opened the door. Annoyed she noted that there was no servant nearby. Her anger began to channel again, for no true reason, but she was to lazy to look for a servant herself, or even clean the mess with her own hands. After a few seconds her personal servant appeared. Frightened she noticed that her mistress was already waiting for her, she would be sorry for being late again. Her back already showed signs of cuts and whips for all her mistake, sometimes this was for just being there. Silently she started to clean the room, put a new blanket on the bed and wash the rest. All that time she had the voice behind her.

"You work to slow! You are always to late! What kind of stupid handmaiden are you? Your work is bad!" (And so forth)

After some time, Selinia got tired of insulting her faithul handmaiden and went to shower, while plotting for her cousins downfall.

Elaina stared out the window at the approaching figures. First came a hullabaloo of men in robes, which left off who must be have been one of the suitors. Then came a man carrying something covered in material. Watching as the man spoke a bit with the guards, it looked like he was admitted entrance afterwards and disappeared from her view of sight. “Well Tutu. It looks like it’s starting now. Two down and who knows how many left to come. What do you say we go see what Isabella is up to?” Not giving her twin a choice in the matter, she grabbed Tuula’s hand and took off at a run down the hall; only to pass by the man who was carrying in the strange thing from before…which he no longer had. “Good morning.” Stopping momentarily to greet the guest with a smile, she took off again with Tuula still dragging behind her.

Rounding a corner, she soon spotted Isabella heading towards her room. “Shhh…” Holding her finger to her lips towards her twin, Elaina tried to slowly sneak up behind the princess then half tackled her from behind. “Morning! It looks like the suitors are arriving already now and…Why is your clothes meowing?” Taking a step back to cock her head in confusion, Elaina wondered in the back of her mind how many suitors she would have to keep her eye on for her friend.

Tuula calmly watched a small bug crawl across the window as the bustle of suitors arriving began. She paid no attention to the people arriving, instead smiling at the small insect as it skittered over the cold window panes. "I bet you're glad you're inside. You'd freeze out there." Before she could continue her stimulating conversation with the bug, her sister yanked her down the hall. "Oh! Yes, I'm sure her mind is swimming with all of the commotion going about." She was certain their friend would want to have a nice relaxing chat before being tossed to a herd of men wanting her hand.

Pausing in the hall, her sister greeted a stranger and Tuula smiled at them as well. "Hello!" Once more she was yanked toward their destination then told to keep it down as Elaina surprised Isabella. Laughing a bit, Tuula smiled widely at her friend then raised a brow at the sound of mewling. "Wait, don't tell me you've snuck another cute animal in?"

On her stomach, bundled up in a heavy coat, Cecilia watched nothing in particular. Actually, she had been watching grass grow, and before that she had been plucking little clovers. She had been at it for about two hours now, killing time until they arrived. She could've been painting, or learning to play the piano, or hanging out with Isabella or the twins, but she decided to watch grass grow, because obviously, it was too important to pass up. In truth, the grass had just been closer to her than Isabella. She had always hated walking long distances.

Intertwining he fingers together, she layed her head down on her hands. Her head was cocked to the side slightly, giving her a full view on what was happening to the side of a large oak tree placed in front of her. She appreciated the shade--the sun was far too blinding, even behind those clusters of ethereal clouds.

She watched as a figure in a white robe approaced the gates, a very large something in his hands.
You see, that something, was a sculpture and she would've easily figured it out if she had actually looked at it, but Cecilia was far too caught up in the way her long stockings were sticking to the wet dew in the grass. She was sure her fingers were frozen beyond moving too. When she exhaled, a white puff of smoke appeared, assuring her that her lungs were no better than her cold fingers.

Lifting herself up, she brushed off her dress and re-adjusted her coat. She buttoned up a loose button with numb fingers, and walked at a slow gait to the side of the castle. She wasn't in the mood for formalites. Especially introductions--Where did that get you anyway? Critisized and brushed off? Maybe, but it also carried along a little thing called an opportunity--something rare around these parts.

Stopping at a bulky door, she blinked once and opened it. She took the back doors, well, because she could. It was less of a nuisance than going through the main entrance and having to pretend you care if you knock over that expensive vase, or accidently run into a not so nice guard. Much less effort, and plus, she hated long distances.

Going up a few flights of stairs, rounding this corner, walking this hallway and through that door, Cecilia finally found the people she was looking for.

"Yoo Hoo." She cooed.


OOC: I'll post Lucas's intro later. Its late and im tired XD And the people Cecilia found was the twins and Isabella. Btw : ] )

Alan watched from the shadows as two of the competition filed past, the man in the chair carried by servants went past again, or had it just been the chair? That would make much more sense, as why would any important man not choose to stay in the palace?

As it was not the matter at hand he put it from his mind. Instead he now stepped out into the streets and in a blink of an eye was surrounded by his honor guard.
No one would notice the shadows swarm out into the open and construct the shapes of six men and two women, the men would be wearing chest plate and flowing shadow and fire capes while the women would wear full black robes, and all of them would have eyes made of fire.

As they began to march towards the keep the two 'men' on ether side of Alan took out body length poles and started to twirl them before slamming them to the ground with a loud bang which threw fire across the ground, this was repeated as they marched and soon a large crowd had gathered around the group

With the crowd slowing the slowly they finally made it to the palace and Alan walked over to the guard as the shadow people boxed around him "I'm Lord Hunce, ruler of the outlanders." He spoke privately to the guard before turning to the crowd "I come here with no army, no real honor guard, but only a show of magic. I come of course to try my best in wooing you princess and to bring an allegiance, between you and the Outlanders. I come to marry and to join my people with you." As a small slightly confused cheer went up, the shadows dissipated leaving Alan alone. When this happened Alan's weapons also vanished, the guard not exactly noticing bowed slightly and allowed Alan in. Alan clicked his heels and sent sparks flying behind him which multiplied until the sky was filled with multicolored sparks, by the time they vanished Alan was inside and heading to his room.

Bella stood outside looking up at the body laying in the tree above her, blood was still dripping slowly from the dead man in the tree. Bella reached out and caught a drop of blood on her finger, looking at the blood she spoke a quick sentence in the demon tongue, the blood glowed bright and Bella could see the mans last moments in her mind. Yes she had found the place.

When Selinia walks back into her room she would notice a number of things wrong. For instance that her maid had been cocooned in the blood soaked sheets and seemed to be unconscious. Also that there was a woman in her room who by no visible force held the man she had murdered about a meter in front of her.

Bella smiled "Hello there, we need to talk."

Alexis walked behind the dog sled as it bumped its way up the icy cobblestones. For his introduction, he wore a faux Sierrian Army officer’s uniform beneath his heavy greatcoat, complete with medals and ribbons. A pearl handled revolver and a stainless steel saber with a silver and white gold handle hung about his waist. His servant, Melissa, followed just behind him. Much to her continued embarrassment, she wore a full Sierrian infantry uniform, complete with men’s trousers and a steel helmet. She displayed her infantry pistol and bayonet around the waist of her greatcoat; while a rifle and her skis were lashed to her back beneath her pack.
Alexis was greatly relieved his journey was almost at an end. The two had traveled many miles for this meeting, foolish, though it was. Alexis couldn't understand why a marriage to a spoiled little princess of a distant, underdeveloped land was necessary. To support its mighty industrial economy, Sierria needed coal and oil for fuel to power its foundries, vehicles, heavy machinery and generators. Marinia grudgingly provided these fuels, along with a market for Sierria’s cheap export products and excess precious metals and precious stones; all in exchange for Sierrian iron, copper, and other industrial metals for their industry. Both countries were constantly searching for new markets and suppliers.
Sierrian explorers had been infiltrating Albakove for many years, even as far back as the days of the Sunlit Realm. They had found huge beds of coal, swamps bubbling with crude oil, and a kingdom, centuries behind the Sunlit Realm in development and civilization, with a voracious appetite for gold and silver trinkets, and myriads trade networks. Unfortunately, every trade mission had returned empty handed. Finally, it seemed the gods had smiled down on Sierria at last. As diplomatic relations with Marinia slowly deteriorated over thier latest dispute, news came that the King and Queen of Albakove were offering their only daughter in marriage, and their prospective son-in-law would share in the kingdom. While the whole premise was alien to them (marriage was a mutual choice for a couple in love to decide alone without interference), both the Foreign Minister and the High Chancellor agreed this was a stroke of luck. If Alexis could marry the princess of Albakove, he could use his influence on the royal family to forge a trade alliance with the country.
So, as the first snows of winter crept down from the mountains and high plateaus, Alexis and Melissa set off for Albakove. All was well as they rode from the capital to the end of track in the snowy White Mountains, then by dog sled through the woods into the wilderness. The day before they crossed the border of Sierria into the wild country of the Albakove frontier, things got a little weird. Alexis and Melissa stopped in an elf village for the night. That evening, the elven queen asked for a private audience with Alexis. When it was granted, the queen threw herself at Alexis’ feet and begged him not to go.
A great evil lurks in Albakove, she said. It is ruled by a race of blood-drinking demons – vampires – they are called. This princess whose hand you seek is a vampire. Please, you must turn back! She is a monster! The people of Albakove live in fear of their lives because of her ilk. She will no sooner choose you as her husband, and then she will drain you of blood and kill you.
Alexis had to laugh at the elf’s irrational outburst, and assured her “vampires” were no more than a silly bedtime story. That had not stopped the queen nor the rest of the elves from accompanying Alexis and Melissa to the frontier in a long funeral procession that unnerved even the Sierrian Border Guards manning the last checkpoint. Alexis tried not to think too much about it on the long sled ride through the forest to the castle.
It was somewhat gratifying when he finally reached the castle gatehouse. He and Melissa could finally get into someplace warm, after five days of sleeping out in the snow. It also meant the easy part was over. Now to get the girl and the prize that came with her.
"This had better be worth the long trip," Alexis remarked to Melissa. "I didn't come all the way out here in the dead of winter just to woo some picky little bitch."
"You mustn't take that attitude," Melissa admonished him. "Your mother is counting on you to finalize trade relations with Albakove. You don't want to offend the princess before you even meet her." Melissa was loathe to speak the princess' name, as it was the same name as the Goddess of War; Melissa's patron deity.
"More like the oil execs and the coal mining firms," Alexis snorted. "You know as well as I do the only reason my Mom has agreed to this is because the coal and oil lobbies have been pestering the Legislature to open a trade alliance with Albakove - by any means necessary.
"Now, time to look sharp. I think I can see some guards up by the gate. You're my honor guard."
"Oh joy. Now I finally have an excuse to wear this silly costume. I fucking hate trousers." Melissa wrestled her rifle from behind her back, clipped the bayonet to it, and adjusted her helmet. She hurried in front of Alexis. They marched straight up to the gate, where Melissa called the dogs to halt.
"Presenting his Royal Majesty, the Crown Prince of the Sunlit Throne, Alexis Soliarous," Melissa announced, standing stiffly at attention, with her rifle slung across her shoulder. She looked like a new recruit on the parade ground. The guards looked at Melissa, taking in the sight of her strange uniform and the weapon she was holding, then turned thier attention to Alexis. Alexis removed his right glove to reveal the golden signet ring on his middle finger.
"Greetings," he said. "I have come to seek the Princess Isabella's hand in marriage. I have traveled many a mile, and my servant and I wish to retire to someplace warm. I trust you have kennel facilities for my dogs, as they too have traveled far." The guard nodded, and shouted for a servant to see to the dogs and the sled. He then directed Alexis to the entry door. Alexis and Melissa headed off towards thier rooms, eager to get warm and cast off thier heavy great coats.
"Nice intro," Melissa commented.
"Thanks," Alexis replied. "We're here, and thank the gods, we're safe. Here goes everything."

Isabella noticed guards taking a veiled piece upstairs and she smiled warmly at them, "I'll check on it later, I have a thing or two to attend to, please tell him that I will be but a moment." She informed the guard, "Be careful, don't get hurt taking it up the stairs.." she added, her kindness unable to conceal itself, even to the lowest of guards. She jumped as arms flew around her, "Elaina!" she half squeaked, "Don't scare me like that! My clothes..?" she asked worriedly, "T-they're not meowing.." she reasoned, holding her jacket closed, the meowing getting a little louder, "I-Its just a kitty.. Do you think my father will get really mad?" She asked raising an eyebrow at Elaina's twin Tuula.

She was going to tell them her plan about the kitten, but she heard a familiar, "Yoo Hoo." then grinned, "Hey there Ceci.." she stated softly, a small siamese kitten popping out of her jacket collar. She heard the suitors coming in, and saw many of them, not hesitating to wave politely and curtsy as they passed her. She raised her hand to push the Kitten back down into her coat, "Well...can we move this to my room? I need to get Simon there before my father comes out to meet the suitors.." she blushed, "Plus I've got a message to look over waiting on me by the looks of it." she said rubbing the back of her neck, "Guess the days of playing dolls and sneaking out windows are over for now.." she sighed.

Zakia wiped his hands clean after ensuring not even a hair or thread was out of place and not so much as a speck of dirt had collected on his clothing or self. He stepped out carrying the box he had brought that carried the princess’ gift…it would be the greatest surprise ever… a diamond rose carved and enchanted to feel and look as a real rose but never die and practically indestructible, however it wasn’t the object but what he had laced it with… he had used his spies to collect one of Isabella’s hairs and had his alchemists use it to create a special potion that would make Zakia all the more attractive to her… and the best part it was otherwise undetectable as only the princess and direct blood relatives could smell its’ potent magic. “Victory is mine…” He said with a smirk as he moved to find the princess finding her heading towards her or one of her friend’s rooms he cleared his throat. “Fair lady Isabella, princess of the wondrous nation of Albakove I come in greetings…” He said with a charming smile. “I am Lord and Inquisitor General of Mercei the great war engine of the south. I humbly come to try to win your heart.

He paused taking out the box and laying it flat upon his left forearm which he held out at a ninety degree bend. “I bring this as my show of devotion to bringing peace between our nations and joining with your fair hand which though your nation may not wish such as me gets a hold of their most prized national treasure, their most beautiful of gems… you… I will try never the less.” He said opening the case with a flourish. “I carved this and had life breathed into it just for you…” He said bending on one knee. “I and Mercei give this in gift for you and Albakove… may this be a offered hand in times of need and an ask for your own hand in marriage.”



Mars yawned bathing herself in the sun within the gardens. A light robe lay besides her and little was left on to keep her decency she didn’t really care to much who saw her… after all she had been blind forever thus appearance mattered little to her… and she needed the Sun’s warmth and the more of her skin that was covered the slower she absorbed the golden light though for the most part she just loved the feeling of the sun upon her skin… she was born of its’ light and thus she loved to be rejoined with it. She did however keep her senses up allowing her to make a rather accurate mental picture of the entire garden especially with all the sunlight her mental picture was shown with incredible clarity. She sniffed the air smelling blood but shrugged once her nose located the source was from Selinia’s room so she assumed mistress Selinia had simply had her meal and who was she to judge what any of the royal family did. She was a servant and assassin… though she was more of a counter assassin… the princess’ body guard if one would and the kingdom’s seer capable of accurate and semi controllable visions that were unpredictable in their starts and finishes.

Selinia

Selinia returned from the bath after over a hour. She had made up another plan for her little cousin's downfall, involving all those inferior suitors of her. Once she would meet any of those, they will clearly see that she was a far better leader than Isabella. They had to see that, she was stronger, more intelligent, to put it simple she was better than her. If only her parents and those old fouls that run the kingdom for now had seen it, but this false snake had put all of them under her little spell. Soon would she, Selinia Vel'Strat, rightful queen of Albakove, proof that to everyone, they all were wrong. She dried herself, thinking that her handmaiden should have done that. Why was her useless servant not here to do that for her? It's not like Selinia didn't treat her well, or that she should be scared of her. Others would surely have killed such a useless person long ago, she should be glad to have such a kind mistress, Selinia thought to herself. Without bothering to wrap her clothes around her, she stepped out of the bath. She couldn't catch a cold, she was already undead in some sense and it was her room after all.

Immediately upon entering her own room again, she noticed that her handmaiden was missing, but there was a bunch of the sheets in her form on the bed. Just as she wanted to go over and punish her for the laziness, she noticed the other most visible thing in the room, the dead body of her last night's victim. The body looked as if it was flying above the ground, even thought the blood of him still dropped on the floor beneath. That was enough reason for her to look around the room again, so she noticed the other woman in the room. Not bothering to cover herself, she instead grabbed for her sword, which was close to her bed. She didn't know, who this other woman was, but she was certainly not invited. Rage filled her eyes, as she stood in front of this woman just half a blink after that woman spoke to her. With her sword ready, she spoke in her usual manner, which more likely sounded as if she would give orders.

"I can't remember inviting you here. Don't you know, who I am?"

Alan continued to walk up the hallway to his room. Opening the door he stepped in and grinned as shadows formed into his luggage.
Walking over he opened one of the cases, glass clinked together as the box opened onto what looks like a rich mans toiletries bag. In the box there were 15 glass bottles as well as a variety other make up sets and such. Inside was also a note from his sister which listed what each of the numbered bottles would do, taking the note he read until he found the one suggested for 'first encounter', taking bottle five Alan dashed a little over him.

Each bottle was an enchanted liquid, each of them made by Bella and to be used in helping the princesses mood while he was attempting to woo her, he didn't know how it was made but Bella was smart and powerful. The liquids would only have an effect on women who's body was still young. So not only would it have an effect on the princess but any other 'young' female he met, meaning it would give him a 'hot stuff' feel to him.

Alan turned to his mirror and combed his hands through his hair, thinking of how much of a shame it was that he had to use the potions. He was a very good flirt anyway, but he understood he would not be the only person going to lengths like these, and needn't worry, he did not plan to actually love the vampire

Stepping through the door Alan made his way to where he had last noticed the princess and was delighted when she was still there, not so delighted was he that there was another there, walking over he noticed the rose diamond and caught a scent of magic. Unable to determine what the magic was he made a note to have Bella check out the strange gift.

Bowing to the princess he adopted the accept of the Outlanders, it was a weird tone which gave only the faintest trace of any accent at all, this was an after effect of them traveling constantly. His bow lasted the perfect amount of time and as he stood up to his full height he smiled "Hello princess, I'm Lord Hunce, leader and ruler of the Outlanders." At this point Isabella was probably about to be overwhelmed by both the roses intoxicating smell and his own.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Bella's smile grew more wicked and evil "Oh I know who you are, the problem is I don't care." Bella dropped the body of the man on the ground. She moved her hand and the body disappeared, only to appear outside the window and yet again fall in the tree with a sickening crunch.
Her eyes were cheerful as she continued to talk "You know, it is lucky I come to do this errand rather then my brother." She smiled and pointed out the vampires naked form "I must say, you do keep yourself looking well."
Making a face as if scolding herself she stopped for a second before starting again "Well thats not the point. I want to discuss with you ways to get that cousin of yours off the path to the throne and catapult you directly onto it, destroying those senile old royal fools as we do so."
Bella licked her lips knowing that should at least get her attention "We are already starting, and we will find a way to do what we want with or without you. But I though I would be nice and offer you a chance at what should be yours."
Bang, and that evil flirtatious grin was back on Bella's face.

Isabella turned to Zakia and smiled, a small curtsy explaining she realized his presence, "Isabella Kuran, nice to meet you. We've been expecting you. These are my friends, I trust them to introduce themselves to you kindly." she said listening to him introduce himself, wondering how he knew she was the one who was the princess, "I'm quite flattered you know who I am, before I even got the chance to tell you." She added with a laugh, the blushed a little, "You're quite charming, I must admit." It was obvious that flirting made her a bit nervous, but she was forever kind with her replies and did not refuse his words, "But only time can tell something like that." Her eyes widened at the gift from Zakia, "I-Its beautiful...but..I can't accept something that fabulous unless we do wed..." she added in suprise, it was obvious she wasn't prepared for the gifts and charm the males would likely use on her, daily.

Seeing someone else enter the room, she bowed at the other male, slightly relieved that she'd have to make no decisions as of yet, she looked over to her friends for help, assistance, anything. She smiled at him, then curtsied once more, "Nice to meet you Lord Hunce." she replied with a innocent smile, She felt her head growing rather dizzy between everything going on, and she placed a hand over it, "My..it seems I will have to go out tonight...I guess I've been neglecting vampirism.." she laughed, blaming the reaction to the rose and the potions on the enhanced sense of smell hunger throws upon a vampire.

(Let's wait until Lucas and the rest who haven't posted post before anyone else posts again... pm me if you have questions, concerns or are just bored x3 I'd rather that than spam posting or leaving others behind :) )

Varnh Luptare walked lightly over the cold stones of the roadway. It had been a very long journey, but he was finally approaching the royal palace, home of the Kuran vampires. If nothing else he was looking forward to being warm again. As tradition dictated, Varnh had traveled from the Moonholds of his people on his own power, with only a simply woven traveler's outfit. He was not even permitted shoes. His possessions, along with his gift to the princess, were brought to the palace long before his arrival.

The crowds awaiting the arrival of suitors didn't even take passing notice of him as he wound his way through them. There was simply no indication of his station. His race had always valued personal strength and merit, and an overt show of wealth and influence was considered bad form. So Varnh completed the final few steps of the journey much as he had the rest of it, with imperceptible footfalls in a steady pattern, weaving through crowds to approach the palace guards. The guards took no notice of him until he began climbing the first few steps. They frowned slightly at the approach of an apparently footsore and travel stained young man, but they did not accost him until he reached the top. Then the senior guard rang out, "Your business, sir?"

Varnh came to a halt, and passed them a sealed message scroll. "I bid you take this message to your master, for I am Varnh Luptare, eldest son and heir of Garrith Luptare, Lord of the Moonholds. I come to you under my own power and the blessings of my land to seek the hand of your most esteemed princess, in hopes that we may join our powers to the benefit of all. I await your master's pleasure in this matter."

Though the guards must have been somewhat surprised at the appearance of the self-declared werewolf, so small for one of his race, they gave no outward sign. After inspecting the seal and confirming it to be genuine, the senior guard responded as tradition required, "My master has looked for your arrival, and has bid me to allow you passage into the palace. You will find a room prepared by your people and ours, and you may make yourself welcome in his palace as you desire. He also cordially invites you to meet with his daughter as the last rays of sun vanish, and will make every effort to attend this meeting."

Varnh nodded and entered the palace. A servant met him and gestured for Varnh to follow. He fell in behind the servant and considered the guard's greeting. He had heard some rumor of the king's ill health, but he hadn't any idea whether they were at all founded. The greeting he had received seemed to support the rumor, but there were still many other plausible explanations for the king's possible absence. The servant opened one of the many ornate doors of a hall they had entered and bowed slightly, allowing Varnh to enter the room. It was well-furnished and spacious. His things were already unpacked and organized. The servant asked if anything else was required, but Varnh dismissed him and headed straight for his private bath. How glorious a long bath would be, and Varnh had arrived in the morning, meaning he had the better part of a day to kill waiting for sundown and his first official meeting with the Kuran princess. The bath was even better than he imagined.

Adrien, dabbed his feather in ink again and again as the carriage went down the rocky road. His handwriting was a little smudged by the movement from the carriage. As he wrote the final words a tired sigh came out of him. His eyes were bloodshot from nights without sleep, painting a piece of art of Princess Isabella. He actually had never saw or listened to about her appearance but drew a picture of the person in his dreams. The person that he drew had eyes the color of topazes, hair the color of enchanting magic which was supposedly long, a face that was pure, an angel like face. If Princess Isabella did not look anything like this he didn’t care than the princess was not for him but another man though if her personality was what he wished for all his life, he might accept. His mother had recommended that he should make the two families have good terms with each other, after days of his mother’s talking he finally gave in and he regretted, while painting with those long fingers of his.

The carriage came to a stop. “Master Phantom, we are here. Is there still anything you need that we may help you with…?” He sighed and dabbed the feather in the ink again, signing his name in his signature then writing it in print. He had finished writing the poem, another gift to the princess. Adrien rolled the scroll up tying it up with a crimson red ribbon that his mother had gave him. He knew the ribbon had a spell that a magician that his mother requested put in. He was positive it was to make it seem that he was nice and not arrogant that he was, that was the spell he knew his mother would request. “Take the painting out, give it as a gift to the princess,” he commanded in a strong voice almost seeming angry. He then remembered something important, “I need to get out of this carriage, George,” he called out though tiredly. The door to his left opened, stairs that was built to the carriage showed he walked down feeling the cold winter air breezing. He looked back seeing about 100 horses which made him feel more tired. He walked toward the guard with a blank though cold look, “You may call me Adrien James Phantom, from the Phantom family who rules in Lochice, I the only son and the heir if you consider, came to meet Princess Isabella to be one of her many suitors.” He continued, “Here is a gift I present,” he said pointing to the painting that was covered with a veil.

Servants came out taking the art work inside he sighed seeing it was gone. “You may go, we have prepared you a room and the king would like you to meet his daughter though you may relax in this place.” He nodded as he walked in the door staring at the interior, wondering about where the princess was.

Selinia

As her 'guest' stated that she didn't even care, who she was, Selinia had the urge to slice her throat open, to spill her blood over the already red floor. Well the ground was covered by a dark red carpet anyways. Selinia had made sure that it was placed there, once she moved in. Just as she was to strike, she heard the body next to her drop to the ground. She didn't bother to turn around and a second later she heard what she suspected to hear, the body being impaled by the tree again. She still didn't know, who this person was, but she knew of the mages, who were able to do this kind of things. This one only seem to do it with so much easy, not that she would be a match to Selinia, but she found that ability rather interesting. She did notice that her guest talked about a brother, so there was more than one of them. She finally came to see that she was still naked, as the other woman complimented her, at least that's how she understood these words.

Within a blink she had reached out for a silken towel, which she wrapped around her body. It's not that she really cared to be naked, but she had to show some pride as the future queen of Albakove. Just as she was finished her guest came to the point, the reason why she would be here. She indeed caught her attention with the goal to take Selinia to the throne. If that would be the reason for this illegitimate visit, she would even be able to forgive that act of impoliteness. She didn't even listen to the rest of the words, her mind was clouded by the thought of getting rid of her little cousin, that stupid little usurper. She sat herself on the comfortable bed, legs crossed. Seemingly lazily she spoke to her guest, putting her sword back into it's golden sheath again.

"Now you got me interested. What is your plan for now?"

Other people might be interested in who or what they are working with, but Selinia only cared about getting herself to the throne, she rightfully deserved. She replied to the grin with an equal smile, wickedly, but tempting at the same time.


((I know you said to wait, so I just write to continue the scene with Selinia and Bella))

"Excuse me.." That was the only thing Isabella remembered saying before slipping off to her room, she noticed two veiled gifts and recieved a few messages for her. The maid waiting in the room smiled at her, bowing before approaching her, "Miss Isabella.. A man named Areon seeks your company in the throne room. Likewise, another suitor by the name of Varnh has also been invited by your father to meet with you.. and the Vampiric Suitor, Adrien has arrived. The sculpture is a present from Areon and the painting from Adrien. Please remember to thank them, the Vampire seemed a bit touchy." she smiled, walking out quietly before Isabella let Simon, the Siamese kitten in her jacket out on her floor, "Sorry Simon...I'm glad you've been quiet the whole time they were speaking with me..."

She went back to her door and called upon the maid, "Please, tell them all I will meet with them accordingly...at least I will do my very best to meet them all tonight.." she smiled, her mind couldn't help but wander to those strange smells from earlier, the men didn't seem quite as charming now as they did when she was with them, but they were extremely charming nonetheless, "Father, why are you doing this to me.." she laughed bitterly, going back over to the cat she rescued and petted it, "Simon. You're the only guy who understands me.."

Elaina laughed at the kitten, wanting to pet it; only to quickly turn around in surprise as the suitor with the hullabaloo escorts from earlier. Waiting as the two introduced themselves, Elaina followed suit with a short curtsy. “Elaina Verday, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” Straightening back up with a smile, she was surprised by the flattery and gift he presented to Isabella. Was all the suitors going to be like this? Then as if on cue, there appeared another suitor. Wondering if they were going to be ambushed by all of them, she caught the pleading look from her friend, but was useless to help. Unless she was allowed to shock someone or create a distraction, matters of males flirting was not of her area of expertise. And even worse she was starting to feel a tad light headed with the appearance of Lord Hunce. Closing her hand behind her back to create a small spark to snap her to her senses, she was surprised to hear Isabella not feeling well also.

Gladly following Isabella as she excused herself, Elaina paused to look at her twin as they were out of earshot. “Did you feel…odd…just then…” Still walking towards their friend’s room she overheard her talking to the maid before heading back into her room, she knocked on the door and let herself in; worried about Isabella. “You alright? That was…sudden.” Flopping down on the bed, she cocked her head to the side and looked at Tuula with an idea. “Tell you what, I overheard the maid just now; and you really shouldn’t get overwhelmed at once. Tutu and I can each stay with a suitor until you can meet them. That way we can give you a heads up on them and get our own opinion…and keep the guest from being bored of course!...But mostly so I can see what these men are like before they get near my friend.” Giving a huge smile at the idea, she really was worried about this whole ordeal Isabella would have to go through; and she wanted to help any way she could.

Tuula smiled at the kitten "Aw, such a sweet thing." As she admired the cute ball of fluff, Isabella pushed it back down into hiding as suitors approached trying to get sweet on her before the others had a chance. It was all flattery in Tuula's opinion but at least they were very polite and one even brought a lovely gift! Hearing her twin introduce herself, she curtsied and smiled. "I am Tuula Verday, a pleasure to meet the both of you." No sooner had she said this did Isabella admit to feeling unwell, she must be overwhelmed with both of these men pushing at her the poor thing. Excusing herself, she followed Isabella and Elaina into the room and nodded quietly at her twin's question, putting a finger to her lips signaling to be quiet about it, they would discuss it later. She then followed suit, asking if Isabella was alright. "Yes, all those men pushing at you, you poor thing. Do you think you'll be alright dear?" There had to be a way to help their friend out with all of these clambering men. Of course, she thought it and Elaina came up with a brilliant solution. "Oh, yes! That would keep the other men out of your hair and you know that no one is getting to you unless we approve." Smiling warmly at Isabella, she waited and hoped she'd agree.

Zakia tightened his gloves bowing to each of Isabella’s friends curtsies “Well met ladies.” He said with a smile which stay until they were out of sight. Once everyone except Alan was gone he spoke with out some much as moving his lips. “You know it is quite impolite… I was speaking to the princess and you come out of the blue and scare her off… with that repulsive sorcery… I will make this clear… get in my way again… and… to put it simple… you won’t leave this kingdom alive…” He said going towards where the princess had gone


Mars stretched out dawning her dress before walking she quickly scaled the wall climbing into the Princess’ bed room. “Good morning milady how has things being doing so far?” She brushed her dress off to free it from dust that had formed from climbing the wall. “The Sun is in full strength to day… warmth… “ She hugged herself as she made a mental picture of the room and everyone else in it. “Hello Elaina and Tuula , how fare your day?”

It felt good to get out of his heavy greatcoat. Now Alexis felt much lighter and cooler. His uniform was still gaudy, though. He wished for his normal khaki pants, shirt, tie, and vest; instead of this silly uniform with medals and ribbons he did not earn through deeds of valor and sacrifice. The saber made things more uncomfortable. It banged and shook as he walked. Melissa was still sour.
"I feel naked from the waist down," she muttered. She too had shed her greatcoat and gloves, but was still in full battle gear. Her rifle was now slung on her shoulder by its carrying strap, and she had her helmet in her hands; allowing her hair to fall out. The two had decided to have a quick look around before trying to find out where they were to meet the princess. Movement caught Alexis' eye. A small, lithe, feminine figure, with short black hair - as black as his own - with pale skin - as pale as his - was passing through the hallway; accompanied by two other women. At first Alexis was willling to let it go. He had other things to do. Then Melissa grabbed his shoulder.
"Idiot! That was her! The princess. The future Mrs. Soliarous. You numbskull."
"Huh?" asked Alexis. "How do you know she isn't just another servant or something?"
Melissa reached into one of the pockets of her pack and produced a black-and-white photograph. It was a picture snapped by the Foreign Minister on his last trip to Albacove. Although everything else was fuzzy, the girl in the picture was crystal clear. It was the princess. "See?" asked Melissa. "You should go introduce yourself."
"Introduce myself?" Alexis asked. "We still need to introduce ourselves to the parents and big brother."
"Want to get a head start? You'll be competing with gods know how many suitors for this woman. Every opportunity you get to ingratiate yourself her, the better. Just like the lobbiests do to the legislators. Come on now, sir. Don't be shy." Melissa replaced her helmet without bothering to fix her hair and whispered to Alexis, "Besides, would you rather marry this girl, or have this idylic little rat hole crushed by a regiment of your mother's finest artillery corps?"
Alexis grunted. Melissa was right. If he failed to get that trade alliance, the Legislature would find a way to justify an invasion of Albacove, and take thier coal and oil reserves by force. And they would find a legal way to do it with or without the High Queen's blessing. Feeling a sudden surge of nerviousness coming on, Alexis turned and followed the women down the passageway.
"Back straight, pecs out, chin up, and look like a prince," Melissa hissed behind him.
"You're worse than my mother," Alexis retorted. He followed her advice. "Now shut up. Here goes." Alexis came to a doorway where he'd seen the girls enter. Spying the two ladies-in-waiting gathering around the girl with the short hair - who indeed looked like a full color image of the princess in the photo - Alexis came to a stop in the threshold and clicked his heels, mimicking the way the generals and other officers presented themselves to his mother. Melissa stopped behind him, standing as stiff as a statue. Alexis cleared his throat to gain the girls' attention.
"Greetings, princess," he began. "I am Alexis Soliarous, Crown Prince and heir of the Sunlit Throne. It is pleasure to meet your aquiantance, madaam." Alexis wasn't sure if he should courtesy or not. As the son of the High Queen of the Sunlit Throne, he was used to all heads of state of the nations of the former Sunlit Realm courtesying before him - even the King of Marinia courtesyed before him and his mother. Instead, Alexis removed his peaked officer's cap.

((For an idea of Alexis and Melissa's costumes, Google "British Army Uniforms World War 1". Alexis wears an officer's uniform, while Melissa wears full battle dress, complete with the helmet, but no gas bag carrier))

Alan frowned, the other man must have been using some enchantment as well, that could make it difficult. Doing his best not to smile mockingly, Alan bowed deeply as the princess left and did a slight bow to her friends. The moment they were gone he was assulted by the verbal barrage from the other man, and before he could reply the man was gone,

Alan's hair burst in to flame for a second before he calmed himself, his eyes still filled with rage he raised his hands and shadows burst from around him before covering him, when they cleared a second later he was gone.
As Zakia walked the shadows thickened and no light would move it, a minute passed of the near utter blackness before out of nowhere Alan appeared holding invisible swords that had shining objects in whatever it was made of. Really the shadows just tricked the mind into thinking the swords were clear, of course he was really holding his katanas.

As the shadows cleared and the room an swords became visible again, Alan raised his head, his eyes shining with hate. His tongue darted around his lips more a second "You should not speak so boldly, you don't even know who I am, even if you know me as Lord Hunce you would be stupid to take on the leader of the wondering people. The truth is I could of killed him with ease, most people heard of the plague that killed most of the outlanders, a mere story really, to keep their dignity intact. Do not be so bold, just because you have a minor god on your side. I can smell his 'blessing' on you." Alan growled and he still hadn't sheathed his swords.

It must of been funny to anyone watching as the men did share a similar look, with only an inch between them and similar hair styles. Laughing slightly he continued "Can you smell the god on me? Or more accurately in me? I give you the warning to never threaten me again, and know that in this you are out of your league boy... Oh and I was not using sorcery, if I am correct that would be you and your gem."

Shadows started to condense around Alan again "Anyway, normally you only call someone alive if they have not been to hell or heaven yet, I've been to both." He disappeared. A couple minutes later he walked out of a hallway right next to Alexis, his weapons had disappeared again and his eyes were back to normal. Walking close to Alexis he caught the faintest whiff of a familiar scent, frowning he murmured to himself "Mother in law?"
Not looking at Alexis he waited for the princess to become available. He now wore a new scent, this one was for memory, in an attempt to keep him irresistible in memory as well as while talking to him, this was of course a bit less of an exact enchantment.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Bella did not as much as blink as the vampire drew her sword, but she did construct a air barrier, it would simply throw the sword off course if the vampire did strike.

Her smile was a greedy one as she noticed how interested the woman was in the plan, of course she had no real want to stick to the deal she was to make.

Making her face passive once more she studied the woman "I plan to invade the palace, with my brother to kill any guards we come across and myself for any mage. We need you because I have heard that there is a curse on the place castle that means no person of non-royal blood is able to draw a significant amount of blood from a royal without triggering, this would of made things much more difficult."

Waiting a moment she suggested her current plan "But that is secondary, if some other fool takes your cousins hand in marriage. If not, well, my brother will wed your cousin and poison the lot of them. No blood spilt, no harm done, you can then have your throne in return for help in getting the poisons in and getting them to eat the poisoned items."

Of course she had no need of the vampires services, blood was easy to taint and with the twins ability to shadow-walk getting items into the castle was very easy indeed.

"That would be great guys.." she said to Elania and Tuula, "I can't keep all the names straight in my head after all this.." she smiled, getting Simon all the things he'd need before turning to them, "Alright. I will vist with Adrien, he's got the same limitations with time as I do, and I'm sure he'd like to feed sometime tonight, so it's best to get things over with him. Can you two please occupy Areon and Varnh in the meantime until I can get to them?" She asked the female twins, happy that they were looking out for her, "You can raid my wardrobe in return."

"Yes it is rather lovely today Mars, Everything has been a little hectic, but rather interesting to say the least if I do say so myself." She smiled at the beautiful sun seer, "Hello, Alexis, I'm Isabella, princess of Albakove." She greeted, a cursty following suit, "Nice to meet you."

(Sorry for shortness gotta go)

While still materializing Zakia had already drawn his sword and pressed it against Alan’s neck. “Don’t speak to me as an equal bastard child of Lucifer…I can smell is blood… and your pathetic flesh reeks of it… unlike you however the blood of a true god flows through my veins… and not because my mother was comely… but because I earned my place and he gifted me into his child… if you stand in my way… I will kill you… drink your blood and steal what little power you have… understood?” He said walking off before Alan had a chance to finish, the imbecile didn’t know the half of it… he also smelled of blood close to his own… a sibling… if it was a sister… he might have some fun later on.



//I’ll wait till everyone else posted in the Princess’ room before I respond for Mars//